I think the best way to start off this month is to present an article sent to me by Joe Nelson, a friend and member of my pool team that kind of sums up my feelings about what is going on with the Muslims of this world that are fanatical criminals who hate all Christians, especially those in the US and other civilized nations.  I am tired of the US and European leaders that kiss the asses of these people and shake in their pants. You cannot appease these fanatics and all too often, even in this article, we make the excuse that the Jihadists represent only a small faction of the Muslims world wide.  I disagree!  I think that they represent the majority and I feel that every Muslim wants their religion to dominate the world and seek any means to do so.  If this was not true, then those Muslims with opposite view points would be doing something about it, not keeping their cowardly mouths shut.  Is this the beginning of another Crusade?  It well could be for there seems to be no end of the senseless violence taking place through out the world. This is not a situation that can be resolved diplomatically, not with people that kidnap innocent civilians, cut off heads, mutilate bodies and pray to Allah while doing so.  These are people that give AK-47s to children as soon as they can walk and teach them hatred to all infidels.  You think Hitler was bad, these people could teach him new tricks on how to wipe out Israel and any other country that opposes them.  The bad news is that this violence by Muslims will continue and spread throughout the world and the leaders of these countries will still be preaching diplomacy right up to the time that some Muslim Fundamentalist shoots him or her in the head.  Am I angry?  You better believe it and frustrated that so many of us cannot do anything about it.  Am I angry with the left wing leaders in the US trying their best to sabotage  the President at every opportunity when they do not have any answers themselves?  You bet!  Does ole George frustrate me as well!  Yep, because this is his last term and I expected him to be more forceful and think less of politics and work on kicking ass in Iraq as well as solving some domestic problems as well.  He needs to let our military do their job, like they could have done in Vietnam if the politicians had been less fearful of student activists and the press.  Will we ever succeed in Iraq?  I doubt it but by God, as long as our troops are there, fighting and dying, lets give them the 100% support they deserve while they are there and also, most of all, when they return home.  Aw shit, that's enough - I am burned up over what is happening and no matter how great the entertainment is on Fields Ave and how well Priscilla takes care of me, I just can't quite relax and erase all this violence from my mind.  Maybe I should start a Blog of my own instead of voicing my opinions in a column that should be stressing the pleasures of wine, women and song but then the Philippines, and particularly Angeles City, is a place where you can visit and kind of forget about all the evil that is present outside the borders of this country.   Oh well, time for me to pop on over to the balloon festival at Clark and take a few pictures.  It is definitely time for me to chill out! 



THIS IS THE ARTICLE:

" We wake up this morning to see video on CNN showing rampaging Muslims around the world. In Europe, the Middle East, the Pacific Rim ... Muslim Mobs spreading mayhem. It seems that these mighty mad Muslims are rioting and firing their ever-present AK-47s into the air because of cartoons. Yup ... this latest epidemic of Muslim outrage comes to us because some newspapers in Norway and Denmark published some cartoons depicting Mohammed.

Admit it, this turban/bomb thing could be the next big fashion hit on the Muslim street!

Muslim outrage huh. OK ... let's do a little historical review. Just some lowlights:

Muslims fly commercial airliners into buildings in New York City. No Muslim outrage.
Muslim officials block the exit where school girls are trying to escape a burning building because their faces were exposed. No Muslim outrage.
Muslims cut off the heads of three teenaged girls on their way to school in Indonesia. A Christian school. No Muslim outrage.

Muslims murder teachers trying to teach Muslim children in Iraq. No Muslim outrage.
Muslims murder over 80 tourists with car bombs outside cafes and hotels in Egypt. No Muslim outrage.
A Muslim attacks a missionary children's school in India. Kills six. No Muslim outrage.
Muslims slaughter hundreds of children and teachers in Beslan, Russia. Muslims shoot children in the back. No Muslim outrage.
Let's go way back. Muslims kidnap and kill athletes at the Munich Summer Olympics. No Muslim outrage.
Muslims fire rocket-propelled grenades into schools full of children in Israel. No Muslim outrage.
Muslims murder more than 50 commuters in attacks on London subways and busses. Over 700 are injured. No Muslim outrage.
Muslims massacre dozens of innocents at a Passover Seder. No Muslim outrage.
Muslims murder innocent vacationers in Bali. No Muslim outrage.
Muslim newspapers publish anti-Semitic cartoons. No Muslim outrage
Muslims are involved, on one side or the other, in almost every one of the 125+ shooting wars around the world. No Muslim outrage.
Muslims beat the charred bodies of Western civilians with their shoes, then hang them from a bridge. No Muslim outrage.
Newspapers in Denmark and Norway publish cartoons depicting Mohammed. Muslims are outraged.
Dead children. Dead tourists. Dead teachers. Dead doctors and nurses. Death, destruction and mayhem around the world at the hands of Muslims .. no Muslim outrage ... but publish a cartoon depicting Mohammed with a bomb in his turban and all hell breaks loose.

Come on, is this really about cartoons? They're rampaging and burning flags. They're looking for Europeans to kidnap. They're threatening innkeepers and generally raising holy Muslim hell not because of any outrage over a cartoon. They're outraged because it is part of the Islamic jihadist culture to be outraged. You don't really need a reason. You just need an excuse. Wandering around, destroying property, murdering children, firing guns into the air and feigning outrage over the slightest perceived insult is to a jihadist what tailgating is to a Steeler's fan.

I know and understand that these bloodthirsty murderers do not represent the majority of the world's Muslims. When, though, do they become outraged? When do they take to the streets to express their outrage at the radicals who are making their religion the object of worldwide hatred and ridicule? Islamic writer Salman Rushdie wrote of these silent Muslims in a New York Times article three years ago. "As their ancient, deeply civilized culture of love, art and philosophical reflection is hijacked by paranoiacs, racists, liars, male supremacists, tyrants, fanatics and violence junkies, why are they not screaming?"

Indeed. Why not? "

TIDBITS

The following extract from the Tourist Police is submitted as a warning from me that all foreigners should avoid the area of Fields Ave called Mitchell Extension at night time.  This particular area starts where Fields Ave divides and the CDC stalls are located behind the Clubs and businesses of Fields Ave.  At night the CDC stalls are predominantly businesses for over loud Karaoke joints that are havens for minors, hoodlums, and T-birds consuming alcohol and possibly even drugs. Regretfully, CDC, in their quest for money has allowed these stalls to be rented out without any regard to noise pollution, safety, drug prevention, or control of minors.  The President of CDC, Mr. Ng has ignored the many complaints sent to him about the noise emanating from these establishments that disturb residents and hotels located directly across the street as the music blares from speakers of 25 plus stalls until 0500 each morning.  It appears he does not worry about the image of this section of the CDC street that invites a haven for criminal elements as well as tables and chairs being put in the street and an image of a no-mans land being created.  CDC might not care about the social ills of this area but this horse would never walk down this street after dark and I certainly hope all foreigners will do likewise, believe me, it IS NOT SAFE TO DO SO! 

"A certain Malou called base reporting a stabbing incident at Stall 127, Mitchell Extension. Operatives Albert Lumba and K9 Sup. Johnny De Leon on motorcycle went to the location and also Mobile 1 headed by Dep. Dir. Nestor Añano, Ramirez Gacho, Arnel Sagun, Oliver Longga and PNP Officer PO2 Antonio Yumul. At the scene, suspects were already gone, and what's left was the victim nearly dead; other operatives look for the suspects and Mobile 1 boarded inside the mobile the critically injured victim who was identified as Duran Fernandez y Reyes, 28 years old, Vendor and a resident of 1145 Macapagal St., Lakandula, Dau, Mabalacat, Pampanga and proceeded to Ospital Ning Angeles for the victim's medical treatment but was declared/pronounced DEAD ON ARRIVAL at the hospital. Suspects fled and are still at large."

Over the years I have received many requests for information or advice from readers of this column but this has to be right up there as one of the strangest yet.  Many are humorous, most are serious and all are fairly easy to answer and I feel that I have successfully helped many readers with my answers but this one stopped me cold.  One thing I can guarantee "JP" is that I have never heard this one before.  So, dear readers, I need your help!  I could answer this but I would rather get some input from you.  Submit your proposed answers to JP to me and I will post the top three in my April column ( harrythehorse at harrythehorse.com ).  You know, I would love to be able to listen in when he discusses this with a local lawyer.

"Harry,
Enjoy your informative newsletter-I've been reading last 2 years. But never before myself been to Asia. I wanted, using your knowledge / experience to ask a question.
If I wanted to get one of the Bar girl's virginity, is there any bar I should go to and ask the mamasan, or time of year best for such ? Do you think it would be a very hard thing in Angeles for me to find or easy?  And would 18 be the accepted legal age for girls to work in the bars ? If such was possible, should I go to a local lawyer there to get a document signed so there's no problems later ?
Sorry to be a pain if you've heard all this before, Thanks JP."

Guys and gals, here's another one - I just had to pass on this email I received and my reply. 

From:
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2006 2:29 AM
To: harrythehorse @ harrythehorse.com
Subject: zamboanga

Harry, Sir, when i arrive in manila in May i'm thinking of going to Zamboanga city for like five nights to check it out action wise. Is that a bad idea? Is that place not safe? I intend to stay in the down town area near their five star hotel. what do you think? thank you.

My reply - No damn way would I travel to Zamboanga city to check out the action.  If you do, send me all your money first and I will hold it for you until you return safely.  Cheers, HTH

As you can see I do carry an ad for Cherry's Club in my column but every time I go to collect my fee from John he complains that customers do not know that old snaggle tooth Jerry is no longer with Cherry's and that he sold out to John last year.  People, please do not go into Cherry's and ask for Jerry!  It irritates him and he thinks no one is reading my column.  Maybe I can get Nick at Blue Book to include this in his monthly extract.  You see, John's problem is that he has never read my column on the internet.  Maybe all readers of this should go in to see John and tell him that Harry the Horse said the owner would provide a free drink if they mentioned this article.  Whatever you do, don't mention Jerry!

More than happy to do so Neil, especially if it means a free meal for the Mrs and I.  Well, what can I say except that I wish I had the money to take advantage of this offering.  What a sweet investment this would be.  The Orchid Inn Group is a well managed organization and I have always been impressed by how well the three owners work so well together and were able to feel the pulse of Angeles City and started their expansion plans at just the right time.  Believe me folks, whether it is this deal or something else, invest in Angeles City NOW, tomorrow could be a lot more expensive.  For more details and how to contact Neil visit this website:  www.orchid-inn.com/investmentpage.htm . 

I see that Bill Lyons of Patio Inn fame has purchased the property next to the Phoenix hotel as well as buying old Frank Shapiros house near me.  The lot has a fence around it and I will have to wait to see Bill Sr. to find out what plans he has for the site. 

Here's a bit of a switch for you - a US Navy Retired FIL-AM, named "Roly" must have watch too many Clint Eastwood movies as he was growing up.  Seems Roly, who plays in the pool leagues on Fields Ave got into a bit of hassle one night as he played pool at a location in downtown AC and pulled out his six shooter (unlicensed) and proceeded to shoot four Filipinos, killing one of them.  Of course he was arrested and put in jail but the word on the street is that he is trying to buy his way out of jail.  He is offering some big bucks to the families involved and other FIL-AM friends of his are saying that if he gets out they will spirit him out of the country right away.  Roly should consider himself lucky to be in a country where money can trump the legal system but he better have eyes in the back of his head because a 9mm bullet of revenge might have his name on it. 

On 16 Feb I received an email from Jack McDonald, acting for Dr. Frederick Tan, Administrator, Philippine International Hospital (That surprised me since Jack supposedly resigned on 31 Jan but I guess he is helping the new guy learn the job or maybe Dr. Tan is just used to having other people do the job for him) announcing that one Dr. Andin, FPATACSI, FPCS, FICS, (I guess the initials are supposed to impress everyone) a noted heart surgeon, is the new Hospital Director of PIH.  So, we have the new boys on board that are supposed to plug up the leaks that are sinking the ship and what is the first thing they do - announce that "effective 16 Feb PIH will withhold its services under the TRICARE program to all TRICARE beneficiaries except those inpatients already admitted.  However, they can still avail of the hospital's services, both inpatient and outpatient, on a cash basis (Believe me, this will cost a patient big bucks).  They will then have to submit their own claims for reimbursement."  They then go on to say that "the requirement is necessary due to extended non-reimbursement by TRICARE/WPS and will continue until the new HPIC insurance is issued as discussed in the attachment to my message of Feb 13."  It is not good news and we all know the reasons for the problems with TRICARE versus PIH (Health Visions) and CyberCare for that matter. The bottom line is that the US Military Retirees in Angeles City better have some cash saved up to pay for medical care, hospital stays and medicine and then be familiar with the TRICARE forms necessary for reimbursement and this takes a bit of time to accomplish and to get reimbursement.  On top of that I have heard that TRICARE very seldom reimburses at the amounts claimed (PIH and CyberCare have found that out).  Now, since you have to pay out cash up front, why go to PIH which is one of the most expensive hospitals in town?  I would suggest that you do some shopping around  and do some cost comparisons.  As for me, until this magic insurance program is available from PIH I will be going to ONA Hospital which is currently under renovation and having a complete make-over.  Yes, it is a government hospital and indigent patients do not have to pay anything, once their status is determined, but they are also improving the wards, semi-private and private rooms to encourage those that can afford to pay to use the facility.  The Hospital Administrator, Dr. Froi Canlas is working tirelessly, 12 or more hours a day, to upgrade ONA to become a model government hospital, capable of treating all economic sectors of the population.  Quality of care, quality of the staff from the janitors to the highly specialized doctors on the staff has been improved dramatically and continues to meet the high standards of set by the new management team.  So, since I now have to pay up front for medical care, why not go where I can get the same or better care as any hospital in Angeles City, for a much lower up front cost.   

It was such a pleasure to meet two lads from Ireland who popped into the Horse stable to greet me and tell me that way over in Ballymena, County Antrim, Northern Ireland they and a lot of their mates read this column.  I always enjoy meeting people from Ireland because way back in time my grandfather came from Ireland and his name was Daniel McCabe, living at 102 Sterns Ave, Lawrence, Mass.  I never met my grandfather because my father got in a bit of trouble and changed his name from Joseph McCabe to Jim Dale but never told me anything about that or his family history.  To this day I regret that name change so when I meet folks like Patrick Magill and Trevor Donncua I always feel a bit of kinship and wonder what part of Ireland the McCabes in Lawrence, Mass may have come from.  May I say to all the folks of Ballymena, may the beer barrels never run dry and may all your days be blessed with sunshine and good luck -  so now I will drink to that but I will add the price to Patrick's tab!

The Winchester Club has closed and the premises/lease are up for sale.  Serious punters should contact Bill Williams at 321-0121 or 09186303386 for additional details.  By the way Bill told me that he and his partners will be taking over the building that housed the "Bull Ring" in Barrio Barreto, Olongapo and turning it into a 10 room hotel.  The name of the hotel will be "The Winchester". 

Speaking of hotels - I heard through the grape vine that well known man about town Robert Sullivan and his steady side kick (reminds me of the Lone Ranger and Tonto) Neville (of Nifty's fame) fell into a sweet deal that has allowed Robert to be the general manager of the Arizona Hotel, representing a new owner hailing from Florida, USA.  Sullivan is now in the process of supervising renovations with two of the best rooms being converted into living quarters for him and Neville.  Many know how much experience Robert has in accomplishing renovations and I am sure he will be putting all that know how into this project especially with access to a hefty construction fund.  I have been told that Robert has indicated that he will honor the many investors that put up money with the previous owner for two week time shares. Again, I emphasize, now is the time to invest in AC and also in Olongapo because the price gets higher every few months.  The train is moving, jump on board, book a room at the Arizona or the Winchester and check out the area (of course wait until both are up and running). 

I am mad at myself.  I missed all the activities arranged by those fun loving guys called the "Road Dawgs" when they came here for their annual SuperBowl Party.  It wasn't all my fault, well, mostly, BigDog himself never made it to my stable and did not remind me of where they would be.  But, I admit, I got busy, then I fell off my motor scooter, damaged my leg and arm a bit, messed up my finger, got behind on my schedule and well, dammit, everything got screwed up.  I particularly wanted to make it to the All Nite Tailgate Party on 5 Feb but misplaced the message from BigDog telling me about it and other events.  I helped Doug confirm a party at Bar Hoppin and then missed that as well, boy, I was knee deep in dog shit.  I was planning to wear a Super Bowl shirt they gave me a couple of years ago and now I have to wait for their next visit.  I missed the 8 Feb pool party/BBQ at Orchid Inn, damn, could have gotten some free food at that one.  I know I missed out on a lot of fun and the opportunity to take some pictures but Feb was such a strange month for me.  Imagine, I had to put a splint on my finger and try to type with it.  It drove me nuts, then on top of that I developed a very stiff, sore neck which made me take a bunch of pills and kept me from getting out too much.  I wonder how the parties went at Voodoo and Bar Hoppin?  I have donated my motor scooter to the Smithsonian.

Last month I reported that the T-Times Club, Stampede, Limited Edition and Gentlemen's Club were joining together to present "Perimeter Bars Exposed" every Monday night from 5 to 7 PM.  Jimbo (Stampede) was inspired by the Blue Boar Inn's monthly Knights of the Brown Ring gathering plus the SOB and Dog House and decided that all the action does not have to be on Fields Ave.  After one month of each club taking turns hosting the event the verdict is in, it is a huge success with crowds of up to 100 attending and thoroughly enjoying the entertainment.  I was told that starting this month the starting time would changed to 6 PM in order to allow for the pool leagues to finish.  The price is right, only P350 and snacks are provided and I believe a little whipped cream delights are offered as well.  So, if you have those Monday blues don't fret, just make it up to that inexpensive part of town where the prices are reasonable, the girls are friendly and everyone tries harder to please.  If you look close, you may see the "Horse" checking things while trying to hide in the crowd. By the way I just heard that one of least popular bars in town, Moon's, way over in the Diamond Subdivision has started a bit of entertainment on Sunday nights in a desperate attempt to bring in some customers.  Will have to check that out, maybe they have cleaned up the place since the last time I visited a year or so ago.  

Apologies to Lew and Greg Stokes, a father and son team from Queensland, Australia who stopped by to visit me, bought the Mrs and I dinner at the Hotel La Casa and just spent some quality time with me.  I took their picture one morning before they left country and I lost it.  I don't know what happened but I suspect I took the picture without the flash card inserted.  I really feel bad about it, but Lew, your written words will not be wasted.  Thanks for hyou

 Late last month a 38 year old Australian named Bruce Gordon Meecham passed away in his room at a local hotel.  He was in the company of his 18 year old girlfriend, Marilyn Guevarra Y Botial but there was absolutely no foul play involved.  The girlfriend was extremely distressed  and did well not to become hysterical.  The reason I chose to write about this is because there was a crime and it was committed by Bruce himself.  He was a victim of too much drinking and at a very young age, it caught up to him.  He was a tourist that had been in Angeles City a number of times and while here, he was usually drunk by noon each day and could be rather difficult to handle.  Sound familiar - you bet!  How many people do we know that fit this description and appear bent on messing up their lives.  This was a sad event but in death Bruce was taken care of with professionalism and respect.  The police were called, as well as the Tourist Police and the actions taken were discreet and very helpful.  The Australian Embassy was contacted and that Agency stayed on top of the situation and was able to contact the brother of Bruce who was able to arrive in-country on 26 Feb to work with the Embassy in securing his brothers remains.  The hotel owner and his staff did an excellent job in how they handled the situation under what could have been a very difficult situation.  A well done to all concerned and we bid Bruce a sad farewell but hope that he can serve as a lesson to all those that tend to overdo their consumption of spirits. This individual should have had a much longer longer time on this earth to enjoy the company of 18 year old ladies, let us hope he passed with a certain degree of satisfaction and comfort.

I guess the "hooks" in Pattaya, Thailand take their services a bit too seriously or just do not like to take "no way, you're ugly" for an answer.  Or maybe there was a language problem - a good reason to visit Angeles City where all the ladies understand what you are saying and answer with a smile, not a knife. 

"Subject: BEACH ROAD PROSTITUTE STABS AMERICAN TOURIST TO DEATH - Beach Road prostitute stabs American tourist for refusing proposition:  Boonlua Chatree

An American tourist was beaten up and stabbed to death on Beach Road in the early hours of February 11 by a prostitute and her pimp, apparently after declining the woman's services. A songtaew driver told Pattaya police that a foreign man had been stabbed at the entrance to Soi 7, only 50 meters away from the police station, and that he had taken the injured visitor to Pattaya Memorial Hospital. On arrival at the scene of the stabbing officers found a pool of blood at the entrance to Soi 7. A motorcycle taxi driver and tourists who had been drinking in a nearby bar said they had seen a Thai male and female on a pink unlicensed Yamaha Mio motorcycle. They were talking with the foreign man who subsequently ran across the road to the entrance of Soi 7 and that the Thai man ran after him kicking and punching him, and knocking him to the ground. The woman then walked over and stabbed him before the pair made their getaway. Officers at the hospital found Tony Lindsey of Honolulu undergoing emergency treatment to injuries suffered to the lower abdomen, the right rib cage and right wrist. Doctors tried hard to save him, but due to the massive loss of blood and the severity of the injuries he died. Preliminary investigations have revealed that the woman is a prostitute who plies her trade along Beach Road and that her pimp is always close by. Police believe that the American tourist was propositioned by the woman, but refused and may have insulted her in the process. This resulted in the pimp beating him up before the woman stabbed him. Police are looking for the pair."

TOURIST OF THE MONTH

Welcome aboard A. G. Hilbert from Riverside Calif.  A.G. is a double retiree from the Air Force and United Airlines and is married to Zenaida, a Filipina that has taken care of him for 29 years (or did he say she was 29 years old - I forgot) This trip started off a bit rough as he celebrated the Super Bowl at Sub-Delicious, drank way too much and suffered a bout of alcohol poisoning; then after he got over that he came down with a bad case of food poisoning and recovered after three days only through the efforts of one Dr. Dizon, recommended by Cliff Wilsey (VFW), who made an old fashioned house call and hooked him up to an IV.  The doctor was a nice old guy but A.G., initially, became a bit wary when old Doc started to hang the IV apparatus from the overhead ceiling fan.  Now, every tourist I feature here normally visits for the wine, women and song but not A.G.  His motivation is to come over and listen to the stories told by lonesome Lowell Johnson, Hidden Vale's premier lawn bowler and unofficial Fields Ave story teller.  A.G. has known Lowell for years and told me that "he is the reason for the season".  Now, I would love to go on and on relating Lowell stories but I could not out do the master because most of his stories are about his own trials and tribulations living here in Angeles City.  See how I have drifted away from A.G. and got carried away with Lowell?  That is easy to do because I also enjoy listening to this guy who used to be known, when he was active duty Air Force, as "Major Problem" because he was so fussy.  See, I can't get off the subject - I should write a story every month "as told by Lowell Johnson" in this column but it would lose some in the translation.  You just have to seek him out at some of his favorite watering holes such as Hidden Vale Sports Resort, Thi-Hi, Hang-Out, Honey Kos and various other Clubs along Perimeter Road.  I will try to get his picture and put it here next month but he is tall, lanky, walks at a strange angle, always wears some kind of hat and is usually surrounded by 4 to 5 ladies, listening, of course, to his stories.  Sorry A.G. to have taken up so much of your space and I do thank you for the signed copy of the book "Ghost Soldiers" that you gave me just prior to your departure.  Give my regards to Zenaida and drop by on your next visit and, for sure, bring the story teller with you. 

REAL PARTY ANIMALS

Normally Sunday is a quiet day at the Blue Boar Inn and I have a skeleton crew working so imagine my surprise when three energetic lads from Coffs Harbour, New South Wales stopped by for a early morning visit.  They were gearing up for a busy day of drinking, eating and sight seeing and they reminded me of some fun loving mates of mine from New Castle that used to visit many years ago but became domesticated after getting married.  Harry Auer, Richard Windows and Kevin Norman were in fine form and managed to jump start my day for me.  I forget which one of the three was on his first visit to Angeles City but I can say he looked exhausted and the day was just getting started. Harry was happy to tell me how he met his Mrs when she was a flight attendant with Philippines Airlines and could not resist his energetic charm.  After about an hour of stories, laughs and a few drinks they bid me farewell as they headed off to Molly Malones for a bit of a feed.  As they left I hoped to see them again but kept wondering "where the hell is Coffs Harbour?"      

I WOULD IF I COULD

Even with a stiff neck, broken finger and sore back I managed to pick this little filly from the Cherrys Club line-up of dancers.  Her name is Marivic Vargas, 18 years old, hailing from Masbate, Bicol.  She told me that this was her first night to work and that she had three brothers and three sisters.  I did not get any more information because the music was so loud that I could not hear her and Priscilla was outside waiting for me.  The reason I popped in to Cherrys was that John was featuring, for the first time a live band playing some solid rock and roll music and I will address that separately.  My intention was to seek out my special pick of the month at the Blue Nile but manager, James ended up in the hospital from sort of illness and was unavailable to host me.  I could have done it on my own with the help of wee George but since James did such a good job selecting the beauties for me in Jan I figured that I could wait for his recovery.  The reason I like to wait is that it is so much easier to interact with the ladies if a manager is enthusiastic as well as he can get the cooperation of the Mamasans and the girls.  Some times the Mamasan's are a pain in the ass, they are so negative and could care less about getting some free publicity for the establishment.  Many are old worn out ex entertainers who overdress, wear too much make-up and hardly smile at all.  Their time has passed but many do not realize it, but not all, it is like a breath of fresh air when I am able to work with those that are cooperative, smile and are friendly and even listen to what the ex-pat managers ask them to do.  Such was the case in Cherry's Club as the Mamasan was a great help as well as owner John.  So many of the dancers have attitude problems and do not want their picture taken but once the picture is taken they all want to see it.  There are good reasons for this reluctance on their part because many are afraid of the internet in that someone will alter their picture or that a boyfriend that is sending them money thinking they are home just waiting for him to return to town will see her picture.  So, I will wait for James to get back to work and continue to be appreciative of those owners, managers, and Mamasans that help this old Horse get those pictures that you, the reader, enjoy looking at. 

CHANGES 

Remember the Sphinx Club on Real Street?  This is one of the buildings that Robert Sullivan renovated many times and spent hours trying to rejuvenate into a successful operation.  Anyway, it died out a long time ago and has sat unused for a year but now, at long last, the spirit within the building has been stirred up and a reawakening is taking place.  Two lads from England (Steve and Brian) have joined forces to create a new Club that will be named the "Big Easy" featuring Blues/Rock music with plans for a live band at least four nights a week.  The new entrance will have customers entering through a large replica of a Wurlitzer juke box.  The quest, like all Clubs, is to have a fun place to go to with pretty waitresses and GROs but in this case the waitresses will earn P3 for every drink they serve.  Cajun style food will be served but I am not sure if this is full meals or just snacks.  The opening will not take place until some time in May so many things could change between now and then. 

Many visitors to AC might have noticed the mounds of dirt that have been dumped in front of the stalls on the South side of Real Street and wondered what this was all about.  For various reasons the dirt was placed there by the City and of course Ex-Councilor Susan Pineda has filed a case with the Ombudsman on behalf of the stall owners.  This is in addition to another case that was filed when the stalls were originally demolished last year and is close to resolution.  A controversial subject, yes!  A political issue - yes!  Should this area be cleaned out and the stalls removed? - that depends on who you are talking to and any conversation would be heated.  This horse fully supports the efforts of the Mayor and City Officials in their efforts to clean up the image of this part of Real Street which is long overdue.  There will be screaming, yelling, complaining and tales of woe from the present occupants but in the end this area will be transformed into a more environmentally acceptable environment (both visual and sound wise) with better traffic flow, better lighting and crime free, but, sadly, without the cheap beer. 

TIME TO ROCK AND ROLL

They were rocking and rolling when I walked into Cherry's Club on 18 Feb around 9:30 PM.  The customers were dancing, some of the guys had their shirts off, some were singing along with the band, others standing at their seats pumping their arms and getting with the music coming from the live band that had started playing at 6 PM.  This was a damn good group coming down from the Midnite Rambler Club in Olongapo and they will be on board every two weeks.  Tickets to attend this lively evening cost P500, payable in advance so get in touch with owner John for the date of the next event.  This is something great for those aficionados of good rock and roll music and a wonderful opportunity to let your hair down and sing your ass off with a band, no matter how bad you are, you just have to have the spirit.

SO IN LOVE

During the Miss Australia Beauty contest at the Wild Orchid Inn last January I ran into two different gentlemen that were enjoying the show with their fiancés.  They did not know each other but both men, John Liddy and Dean (sorry , lost my notes with your full name listed) are both from Melbourne, Australia and did not know each other.  I promised that I would post their pictures in Feb but held them until now.  John had Corazon in tow and I really like that picture but I did mess up with Dean and Cristy, for some reason that came out a bit out of focus - sorry about that Dean.  I hope that does not have any adverse affect on the wedding plans. 

CURRY LOVERS REJOICE

Indian cook Richard and Lewie Lewis have teamed up again to bring Richard's mouth watering curry dishes back to Angeles City.  This time it is offered, for now, only once a week at the Yats Coffee Shop located just inside the Philexcel compound on Clark Air Base (CSEZ).  I know, I know, everyone is going ask "where the hell is that" and "how do I get there" and I hate to answer that because I am lousy in giving directions.  Before I tackle directions let me add that this cuisine is only offered every Friday from 5 PM till late and they started operation on 10 Feb.  A very extensive menu is offered with the most expensive item, Meat Biryani, costing P280.  I tried the Meat Biryani with chicken and Basmati Rice and it was delicious.  For dessert I had a Belgium chocolate cake with cream cheese filling and that was fantastic.  I thought the waitress, Rowena, was telling me "Virgin" cake instead of "Belgium" so I had a bit of fun with that.  Also available are take out meals, frozen TV dinners and Indian spices.  For reservations you can call 045-599-7095 and group bookings are welcome.  Lewie also told me that for those lacking transportation you can call him and transportation will be arranged but must be a minimum of 5 people.  Now, for those of you with transportation get on base and head west on Mitchell Highway, go past the gas station and traffic light and then (this is where it gets confusing) keep an eye out for where you will see warehouses and buildings on the left side of the road, slow down and you will come to where you can ease left and cross the East bound road to the entrance of Philexcel.  If you need better instructions or get lost or need more information call Lewie Lewis at 0917-919-4287.   

THE OTHER JERSEY

When these three swingers visited me at the Blue Boar Inn they told me they were from Jersey.  I immediately thought they might be cousins of mine from New Jersey who used to visit my neighborhood in New York.  Then they explained that there was another Jersey where the Sopranos did not live but a bunch of tax dodgers did and they were part of the latter group.  This was the first time I met anyone from Jersey and all three were taxi drivers, two of whom were on their first trip to Angeles City.  They were staying at the Patio-V apartments around the corner from the Hotel La Casa/Blue Boar Inn so they always walked over for Breakfast and dinner here and they were terrific, fun loving guests.  We have from left to right Allan, Dickie and Malcolm (Slim) with Allan and Malcolm being introduced to the lovely ladies of AC for the first time.  They all read this column so I hope they have fond memories of their trip here and that when they return for another trip that they stop in and say hello again, I really enjoyed their company. 

MORE VISITORS

It was terrific, it seemed like there was a convention in town for folks that read this column on the weekend of 18-19 Feb as in one day three different groups stopped by to say hello and no one wanted to shoot me.  I was pleasantly surprised when Mark Bortscheller and Mike Paye, US contractors from Korea stopped in to say hello.  They were staying at the Central Park Hotel and Mike is a long time fan of Roselle and Guy and loves their Hotel.  My place is a bit of a distance from the Central Park so I appreciated the fact that they took the time to stop by the old stable for a few drinks.  It was interesting to talk to them as I could get a feel for what every day life is like in Korea which is one country that I never got to visit. I remember when it used to be a good place to buy clothes and sneakers real cheap, in fact good sneakers used to cost only 4 to 6 dollars a pair way back when.  Things change plus it is too cold for me in Korea so I would rather sit here, nice and warm, and greet nice visitors like Mike and Mark who can tell me of their adventures while in Angeles City.  Thanks for the drinks fellas and the complimentary words about this column.  

PLATINUM CLUB

If you make it past the Wild Orchid Inn, turn left and enter the warehouse style building on the left which features the Platinum A-Go-Go and the Ministry of Music (Disco).  The Platinum operates from 12 noon to 9 PM and the Disco opens at 7 PM to 4 AM with a live band featured four nights a week, Thursday thru Sunday; a P100 entry fee is charged.  I visited the Platinum one afternoon and was able to take a few pictures of the ladies and some of the customers.  I met one elderly English gentleman named Johnny Hayday who quickly told me that the Blue Boar Inn was a shitty dirty place and was quite serious about it.  I have now told the in-house cockroaches to attack him if he should ever be stupid enough to enter the premises again.  His picture is posted here with his girl of the moment and of course on my CR toilet seat.  Fortunately there were some pretty nice looking ladies present that were far more pleasant to talk to and I particularly liked the bartender Janie as well as the two ladies Disy and Jenalyn, 20 and 24 years old, who easily qualified as "I would if I could" ladies.  Since its opening I have heard favorable comments about this venue and the drinks are not expensive with local drinks at P50 and ladies drinks, P100.  The EWR stands at P1000 which is two to three hundred pesos below what many of the Fields Ave Clubs are charging.  What you can do is stop for lunch at the Wild Orchid Resort and then walk around to the Platinum for a pleasant afternoon.

ANOTHER HISTORICAL EVENT

Look familiar?  No?  Well, this is, temporarily, the new look of the East side of A. Santos Street.  The Orchid Inn boys did not waste any time after the 15 Feb deadline for removal of tenants came about.  No problems were encountered from the occupants and now, or we can do is hope that the West side of the street will not meet the same fate, at least not for a few years.

ONA ON CALL

First he was just a Club owner, then the Sheriff of Fields Ave, now Doctor Smith (honorary MD), what's next - Councilor Smith??  Whatever his title the man is non-stop action who puts his heart into Rotary, the Bahay Bata Street Children's Center, and now Ona General Hospital, all endeavors that are voluntary and non-paying.  His knowledge, energy and organizational abilities are legendary.  His diplomatic skills are crap but that is because he is honest and says what he wants, often without thinking first and that would make him a New Yorker like me.  Some people hate him others love him and I admire him.  We can agree to disagree, yell at each other, get mad at each other but still work together.  He has a heart of gold and there is absolutely no phoniness in his make-up.  He is Mark Smith, so live with it.  This is why Mayor Lazatin, together with Dr. Froi Canlas selected him to put a new face on ONA Hospital.  His "speak softly but carry a big stick" approach is what was needed to transform this hospital.  He has given up a lot of his personal time on this project, seven days a week, many hours each day while still being treasurer of the Bahay Bata Foundation and the Rotary Club of Clark Centennial as well as supervising his various businesses.  So, it is no wonder that I found him on the night of the kissing festival at Bayanihan Park supervising and standing by with the ONA hospital Ambulance service in case of an emergency.  He stayed on site until the event ended and paid out of pocket for food from Sub-Delicious for the staff on duty at the Park.  We all have our faults, and Mark is no exception but there are so many people in this town that when they have a problem and need a helping hand, they call Mark Smith for advice or assistance.  Do you have doubts about the development of ONA Hospital, visit ONA personally and meet with the Smith-Canlas team and I guarantee you will be impressed.

 BALLOON FESTIVAL

For those of you that missed the Feb Balloon Festival at Clark's OMNI Field you passed up on the opportunity to have one enjoyable day.  From 0530 until late at night there was something to see and do and plenty of entertainment, food and action.  My exposure this year presented me with an unplanned, very short ride on one of the Hot Air Balloons and Priscilla the Horse never saw me.  On late Saturday afternoon I took her, Jason and some of her nieces and nephews to the Festival.  On the way there I discovered that I forgot my cell phone and Priscilla asked if we should go back and get it and I decided it was not necessary.  Well, we arrived, found a parking place, entered the grounds and decided to split up and meet later at the location where the rides were located.  While walking to the end of the Field one of the Filipinos with a hot air balloon team recognized me and said hello and asked about the Mrs.  I couldn't remember who the hell he was, that memory problem again.  Anyway, they were about to load up and travel to a section of Clark to set up their balloon for a short flight to the OMNI flight line and invited me to go.  I figured I could get a picture of them setting up and jumped on board.  The next thing I knew the contraption was inflated and they told me to jump on board.  Holy shit, I was going to get a ride on a hot air balloon, something I always wanted to do.  Damn, no cell phone, how could I get in touch with Priscilla and my son to tell them what was happening?  OK stupid Horse that I am, I was the one that decided not to go back for my phone.  One other problem, they said "hop on board", this to an old horse with a bum knee and a bad back who does not do hopping!  Now, there was also a petite, elderly Filipina lady named Victoria who told me she was married to the new Filipino Ambassador to France who was to be on the ride as well and one other young Filipino plus the pilot.  I soon found out that this basket contraption is not all that steady on the ground and it kind of moves around so after everyone else was on board it took four people to get me in the basket by helping with my leg and lifting me in.  Then we were told that when getting ready to land that when the pilot shouted "get down" we were all supposed to kneel down in the basket.  My first thoughts were, "oh, oh, I don't do kneeling either, my legs won't bend".  Time for take off and believe me the balloon is no 747 and there is no such thing as a smooth take-off.  The basket leaned to the left, to the right and to the left again and each time I squeezed into that petite Filipina who was yelling that she was being squashed to death.  She finally got in front of me and could breathe again.  Now it smoothed out and the view was wonderful and I began taking pictures.  Guess what, after a couple of shots my battery died, more cussing on my part.  Now for the landing!  As we approached OMNI the balloon kept getting lower and lower and I could see that we were not going to make the runway, instead, a plowed field and rough brush was fast approaching.  The pilot yelled those horrible words, "kneel down" and I did my best, I think I put one foot in Victoria's face and when we hit the ground that basket bounced three or four times and I realized why we had to kneel

and hang on for dear life.  It finally stopped and was steadied upright and everyone got out except me because the others could still "hop" even Victoria was quick to get out.  For me, the tilted the basket way over and told me to crawl out which I did, gratefully.  Once on level ground again I saw Victoria and asked her how she liked it and she immediately said "never again".  Then she quit talking to me, I think she was still mad at me for squashing her.  Would I do it again, maybe, if it was a longer flight because it was fantastic once airborne but I want a bigger basket and a ladder to climb in and out of.  To be quite honest I don't think anyone wanted this old horse to ride anywhere with them anymore.  So, they drove me back to where I could start looking for Priscilla and the kids.  After wandering around my son found me and when I caught up to Priscilla she was hostile, demanding to know where the hell I had been all this time as she had been looking all over for me.  I told her of my adventure and how disappointed I was that she and the kids did not see me in the balloon.  Down deep though, I was grateful she was not present to see me crawling out of the basket instead of being able to energetically "hop" out.  So ended my adventure at the Feb 06 Clark Balloon Festival.

AN INVITATION FROM CHRIS

The "C" Italian Restaurant's Chef Chris is inviting you to it's 2nd Year Anniversary Dinner.  Chris writes "come and join us on Monday, 6 March at 7:00 PM and enjoy PURO RITMO CUBAN LATINO JAZZ WITH BO RAZON AND TROPICANA.  Savor a spread of all great "C" favorites from our panizzas to the smoked turkey and risotto orbs as antipasti to the one and only bistica di C and our great fish and seafood platter for the entree served with spaghetti al pesto and my special lasagna --- free red and white wine spritzer are served from 7 to 8:30 PM and as a bonus a very special gift will be given for all that are attending this grand night. Ticket prices P950+.  For more information and reservations please call 045-892-6993 or 892-4059".  These events at "C" are well attended so take the time and opportunity to make your reservation early, the horse will be there with his camera and I want to greet you to this fine dining event. 

OK gang, I did not get out as much as I wanted to last month because I fell off my motor scooter into some water in front of the U&I massage parlor on first street. I was taking a short cut to Attorney Rivera's office so don't smile, I was NOT going for a massage, at least not that day.  So, I hurt my leg and arm a bit but really damaged a finger on my left hand.  After a week the Doc put a splint on it and I could not type properly, then I developed a stiff neck and was in pain with that and then I stubbed my toe and got that black and blue.  Shit, it was a painful month.  So, to get this out, I tossed the splint on my finger in the trash and went on a typing spree and now my finger is totally screwed up for life I guess.  I managed to turn 68 on 25 Feb but no parties, except for family.  Now, in two years I will turn 70 and you are all invited for that party, put it on your list of events.  Now I have to watch the latest demonstrations in Manila to see if GMA will stay in office or not.  The good thing is that the peso will depreciate again after a month of appreciation.  I need the good rate for construction money.  Priscilla the horse is tired of living in one of the rooms of the hotel and is demanding a house or apartment to be built.  We decided to build our own apartment at the hotel which means that in three or four months our old room will be available at the hotel.  Well, Chuck is on my shoulder to help me with the pictures and zipping this column to Tom Deasey in Arizona.  I am one beat old man right now.  Hey, be kind to Horses and happy reading.