Soon this picture of the approach to Friendship will be a distant memory, leastwise we hope so. 
With all the new security measures being taken to board an airplane now I figure it won't be long before we have to get completely naked to fly.  When I mentioned this to Peter O'Donnell he told me that "if that happened it would just be my bad luck to be seated between George Brown and Pat Lynch".
I am on a campaign to reduce the overuse of the words "you know" in every day speech.  It is driving me nuts to hear it everywhere, sometimes two or three times in one sentence.  It is a useless crutch, replacing "eh", "ah" but far more annoying.  It is very difficult to break the habit but once you start listening for it you will find that you agree with me.
I was surprised to have a visit from Philander Rodman, Jr. (Dennis Rodman's father) one Sunday afternoon last month.  He introduced me to what I call his "I love me 2007 Calendar".  It is on sale for P800 and surprisingly, I kind of got a kick out of it.  Yes, it is all about Rodman and his family, his 29 kids, Dennis, his five wives and the three he now lives with.  Would you believe that after 29 kids he is now trying for number 30.  This man will never grow old or run out of energy.  One thing for sure, Pilay is different and so is his calendar.  I think it is worth P800 just to add it to your coffee table reading material and see what others think about.  By the way, number 29 was on the way not too long ago but Helen lost him at 2 1/2 months into the pregnancy.  At 45 she still wants to try again.  Pilay has a website, or you can call him at 09283727155 to order your calendar.

Now I surely am sorry read that our American United States Postal Service (USPS) decided to remember and honor the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha (EID) Muslim holiday season with a commemorative first class holiday postage stamp 10 days after 9/11. This is an example of the liberal, spineless, politically correct politicians that we have to deal with in the States.  Remember a Muslim holiday season in a country that is trying to wipe out Christmas.  If you want to remember Muslims how about remembering the MUSLIM bombing of Pan Am Flight 103!  Remember the MUSLIM bombing of the World Trader Center Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

In 1993!  Remember the MUSLIM bombing of the Marine barracks in Lebanon!  Remember the MUSLIM bombing of the military barracks in Saudi Arabia!  Remember the MUSLIM bombing of the American Embassies in Africa!  Remember the MUSLIM bombing of the USS COLE!  Remember the MUSLIM attack on 9/11/2001!  Remember all the AMERICAN lives that were lost in those vicious MUSLIM attacks!  REMEMBER the MUSLIMS in Iran that want to wipe out Israel and the United States.  And most of all REMEMBER all the so called American MUSLIMS that sit on their asses and never utter a word against the atrocities committed by MUSLIMS and the hateful diatribe put out by their Imans that live, eat, and teach in the United States.  REMEMBER to adamantly and vocally BOYCOTT this stamp when purchasing your stamps at the post office.  I am ashamed of our US Postal Service and the only reason I would buy just one of these stamps is so I could tear it up and throw it on the floor of the Post Office and if it was not against the law, I would then like to piss all over it. Thought some of you would be interested in seeing these 9/11 pictures
Now that I got that off my chest, have a happy month of September!

TIDBITS

All the readers of this column know how I feel about the senior citizen flight attendants that fly for Northwest Airlines and I have heard that recently they have appealed to their union to allow them to fly until 67 years of age instead of 65.  In the old days the joke used to be "coffee, tea or me", now it is "prune juice, Geritol and kiss my ass buster" and that is no damn joke!

It was good to receive a note from Ed Brown who wanted me to know that he is in great health and does not have cancer.  For proof his picture reflects a senior citizen that looks pretty damn healthy to me.  Ed, back in the good old days, was a leading figure in the dart leagues in town.  Believe it or not, darts, back in the 70's and 80's was the main sport in town and the dart leagues were more numerous than the pool leagues.  I am pleased that Ed takes the time to read this column every month.  Many folks here still remember you Ed, but we are kind of getting a bit older.  Get your ass over here for a visit!

"I read your monthly article of Harry the Horse and noted that in last months edition you mentioned that you understood I had cancer.  The article was about the EZ Rider Cafe.   It came as a complete surprise to me.  Since the prognosis came from Angeles, maybe you would be kind enough to ask around for a suggested treatment from the same locale.  Of course, I'm just joking about that.  However, I can tell you that I'm very blessed and except for some minor aches and pains once in awhile, doing good.  The enclosed picture was taken about two months ago.  It isn't suitable for publication but you might share it with anyone who said I was sick. On another subject, I understand that David Sellers is having some health issues.  He goes back a lot further than the Wagon Wheel with "Dave's Fook and Sook" which I think was on third street.  You might verify that street number.  Some prayers, thoughts and words for him would be appreciated.  Ed Brown"

An acquaintance, Mike Clark, sent me these words via Email and I did not know whether to laugh my ass off or be worried every time I take a dump.  I chuckle every time I visualize him with that plunger.  I just had to pass it on to you folks.  "This is a first, I've heard of Snakes visiting us from our Toilets but never Rats! Two days ago I went to the CR & saw a medium sized Rat swimming in my Toilet, I almost had a heart attack, I jumped, he jumped, I flushed & saw him hanging on for deal life, I got my plunger & he took off down the toilet, I flushed again & again. Now needless to say I am leery to sit on my commode & have been holding my private parts in my hands ever since. Where he came from is beyond me but I'm beginning to wonder where my toilet water dumps, in a septic tank or down the street in a gutter?"

An American expat dropped by my stable to inform me that he read my column in the "Blue Book" and wanted me to know that he was a victim of the set up scams that were taking place on Santos Street where a Billy Boy set him up with a girl that was underage and as soon as he took her to his room, the Billy Boy called the police at Station 4.  Now, this took place a couple of months ago before the Station 4 Commander, Major Imperial, was removed, along with four inspectors assigned to that station.  To make a long story short, this individual explained that the police arrived and after some conversation escorted him to an ATM machine where he was able to withdraw $300 and also give up any money he had in his pocket.  Then, in order to get his passport back he had to pay another $300 the next day.  As I reported before, this was a set up that was an extortion racket involving the cooperation of the Billy Boy and the police and had been ongoing for a few months.  I advised in this column to be careful, do not take these free lancers off the street especially those that are under the control of billy boys.  Now, there are a couple of things that took place that made me unsympathetic to the expat.  One, the girl was 15 years old and this individual had been with her a couple of times before and thought he "knew her" well enough to trust.  Secondly, he took her off the street, a free lancer and dealt with a billy boy.  This horse has a low tolerance level for foreigners that come to this town looking for underage girls to have sex with!  This man was a victim looking to happen.  Yes, I am dead set against this extortion racket that was taking place during this time period and the new Station 4 Commander, after doing some "house cleaning" has assured me that this type of activity will not be tolerated.  By the way, this Commander was handpicked by the Mayor to clean up Station 4 and believe me, he is honest and dedicated to fulfilling that task.  The lesson here is that those foreigners that insist in taking underage girls off the street, dealing with free lancers and suspicious Mamasans are letting themselves open to being targets for unscrupulous individuals that will take advantage of the opportunity to extort money. 

Article "So Sad".  August issue Harry The Horse (This was sent to me by someone that has a different opinion of the "sad lady" I wrote about in Jul and Aug columns)

I would like to relate a true story about Jackie Clarke (So Sad Lady) and her "actions" on 'the street' beside the street next to The Swiss Chalet on August 2, 2006.  

I was walking down the street with a local friend when this "So Sad" lady, without any provocations on my part or on my friend's part, attacked me with a hot cup of coffee.  This "So Sad" lady just walked up behind me and threw a full hot coffee all over my back. No physical altercations occurred before-hand nor did any verbalization occur between the So Sad lady and myself or with my friend.  I was taken, totally, by surprise as well as all around me, both local and Europeans. Witnesses were aplenty.  All were taken by total surprise as were I and my friend.  Ironically, two Tourist Police were present in front of the local outside canteen by the Swiss Chalet.  

My friend warned me not to confront the "lady" or even look at her, since she is "known to retaliate" and is considered "crazy".  I did as he suggested, but made up my mind to file an official battery report with the Police.  I, in turn, proceeded upon my way, walked around the block to avoid the "So Sad" lady and made my way to the front of the canteen by the Swiss Chalet where two Tourist Police were present. I made a verbal complaint with two uniformed Tourist Police standing in front of the outside canteen.  I did this within 10 minutes of the above described incident.  

I approached the two Tourist Police and told them that a battery had been committed upon my person and that I had numerous witnesses (both local and Europeans) who saw the battery.  The Tourist Police responded by stating "she is crazy."  I stated that this was no excuse for her actions.  I, reiterated, my request that she be arrested and that I would accompany them to the police station and file an official complaint.  The two Tourist Police fell silent and
would not respond.  I, again, requested that the lady be arrested for battery upon my person.  (I might add that I was told numerous times, since my experience, that she has committed battery upon others in the community).  I stated that they could place her in confinement and then seek professional help for her status, if she is crazy.  Again, I was ignored even though I reiterated that I was willing to file a written police complaint.  I even asked them what they would do, if I threw hot coffee all over them?  Again, I was met with total silence.   In disgust, I departed without any
action being taken.  (JBB) (Well JBB, I certainly can understand your anger at having hot coffee thrown on your back by this lady and your strong desire to get her off the streets.  But, you are living in a country that has a general population that is very tolerant of poor souls like this one and usually ignore such behavior.  Over the years I have seen a naked lady walking the streets, a man throwing rocks at passing cars and much more.  Sometimes, eventually, police officials pick them up and move them somewhere but I doubt that they get any real help.  What disturbs me is that the two Tourist Police ignored.  Please, if you ever have problems with the TP get their names and date/time of encounter.  The very least they should have done was to call the TP office so that the PNP could have been notified and your complaint registered.  This will be looked into. Maybe the PNP would have turned her over to the Welfare Folks but I am pretty sure she would not be held or helped.  Thank goodness she was sleeping when I took my picture of her on the street.  For sure, if I see her again, I will not turn my back on her).

This is not information on one of my "I would if I could" ladies, rather, it is information on a woman that has gained a rather good recommendation from her many clients.  I am simply passing on the name of one "Mylyn" who is employed at "Mrs. Robinson's" located just next to Roy's Pub, opposite the Orchid Inn.  Word has it that she has mastered the skills of Oral communication to such a degree that within minutes of conversation a flood of pent up conversation will burst forth from any man taking the time to listen to her.  It is obvious that this not too old lady is self taught and very eager to eat up any further knowledge passed on to her from knowledgeable visitors.  I consider this a public service announcement.

"Harry,

This is Garry W., in Austin, Texas.  Of late, I've been waxing nostalgic and thinking of almost nothing other than the wonderful time I spent in the PI in 71-72.  I've been reading all of your wonderful 'updates' and, although I'm sure it's still the same great place, appreciate that many things have changed.  My favorite club used to be the Brown Derby, there on McArthur.  Also, the old Kitten Club was cool.  One of my old Supervisors, CMSgt Bob Mowbray used to live in the Marlim Mansions......lord only knows where he is now.  Also, when we used to make our evening trek outside of the main gate.....we would take the first left and hit a place called Conchintina's.  I had a lot of good times there.  It's unfortunate that so much time has passed......you probably aren't familiar with those places.  Suffice it to say, I wish I had the financial wherewithal to return.  Damn, that would be nice.  I hope to hear from you.  Cheers!" (You see dear readers, even after 34 years of absence one cannot get Angeles City out of their blood - there must be something wonderful about this place!)

I received this message from the owner of the Arizona Hotel , Mark Kevanaugh, and felt I should pass it on.  Despite the offer of a free room and transportation I have not had the opportunity to take advantage of this great offer to visit a Hotel in which I have heard many complimentary opinions of.  Regretfully, I have not been able to recommend a Filipino manager as the good ones I know are gainfully employed with no desire to leave their present employment.  But, maybe some of my local readers will be able to help to refer someone.  

"Well, still waiting for you to come down and give The Arizona a write up.  We just opened our Sports Bar, and I'm also planning to offer a nightly "Bar Hop Bus" to tour the Subic Bars (they are a little more spread out than AC, and a Bus provides some security and camaraderie.)  More about that later. I will offer you a free room (1 or 2 nights, up to you) and a free ride on our daily Van if you'll be willing to give us a write up in your newsletter.  Whenever you are ready, just ask for Joe, he'll take care of it.

As you may know, Dave helped me "replace" Sullo with a manager he had (Joe from VooDoo).  However, with the new bar and everything, the manager is swamped.  We need a second shift manager.  Do you happen to know any experienced manager type person that is unemployed and looking for work that might be willing to move to Subic? Filipino preferred (so we can pay Filipina rates) but will consider an Ex Pat if they are real go-getter (not a sot). Let me know if you know anybody." (Is "sot" an English or Australian term?) Thanks, Mark K

Neville, owner of Club Rio, Nifty's, Jolly Frog and one other unnamed Club about to open has found himself, temporarily, a resident of the local jail at Station 174, which is one lousy place to be.  Two reliable sources have informed me that according to the wife of Neville, an Email was sent to the NBI and DSWD by a complainant that accused Neville of improper behavior with his five year old daughter.  The officials would not reveal who sent in the complaint.  Both Neville and his wife vehemently deny this accusation but as is the case, Neville must now raise the bail money (about P90 thousand) to be released from jail and then set about proving his innocence.  My sources have also informed me that certain individuals have offered to facilitate his exit from the country for a rather large sum of money (P1.5 million).  At the time of this writing, Sunday, 27 Aug, Neville's wife is busy trying to raise funds by using the various clubs they own as collateral against loans or, as an option, selling one or two of the Clubs in their possession.  For years I have teasingly referred to Neville as "Shifty Nifty" but only because of his astute business dealings and in no way would anyone be able to convince me that he would be involved in abusing his five year old daughter.  The DSWD officials have the girl in their custody and indicate that after interviewing the child she gave credence to the charge.  It is suspected, by Neville, that a past disgruntled employee named "Baby" might have been the one who submitted this false complaint against him.  Let us allow due process of the law to follow its course but no matter the outcome, a possibly innocent man is being forced to part with a great deal of money and suffering mental anguish as well. 

Another Club in town was closed down by it's manager, Patrick, after his Mamasan and four girls were detained by the NBI.  I was informed by a source that four Filipino's, posing as customers, entered the Club and after drinks, left the premises.  Later, they returned and indicated that they had paid bar fines with marked money and then took the girls and mamasan away.  The mamasan, supposedly, is the fiancé of Patrick.  Supposedly, while in the NBI office certain actions by the agents convinced the ladies to make written statements that they were engaged in prostitution.  This is the same procedure that was used against T-Times owner Kevin for the sole purpose of obtaining money.  At this time the ladies have indicated that they want to submit retractions of their affidavits because of the manner in which they were handled.  The Mamasan is spending time as a guest at the disgusting snake pit of station 174 but will see the Fiscal on Friday 1 Sep for a hearing.  The other ladies were released and are working on their new affidavits which should clear the mamasan. It will be interesting to see where this all goes.  Despite the fact that the owner of "My Bar" is not a member of ACTA, this organization will be monitoring the case to assure that due process of the law is followed.

Word has reached my horse's ears that there is a foreigner who has a seventeen year old girl living with him who he truly cares for.  Regretfully, her mother decided to ask him for some money and when denied she decided to report the foreigner to Father Shea Cullen who is a radical priest that would love to burn all Foreign Club owners at the stake.  Anyway, now the subject of this mother's wrath has decided to get out of Dodge before the long arm of the law pays a visit.  There has to be a lesson here somewhere!  Oh how sweet some of those 16 and 17 year old girls are and the desire to keep some of them as housemates, to mold them to one's particular desires must be overwhelming to some.  BUT, it appears that at times, no matter how nicely you treat them you better kiss Mom's ass as well, until she turns 18, then you can tell Mom to f--k off! Better still guys, why not stick to 18 and above ladies and save yourself a lot of grief. 

The word on the street is that the Vian Lodge has been sold to the Doll House boys.  I have to run down Clay to get a confirmation or denial on this.  Meanwhile I was able to check out the rooms at the Doll House Hotel and Cafe on fields Ave.  The rooms were classified as Deluxe ($90), Superior ($100) and Executive at ($110) with each featuring an 80x80 super sized bed, big enough to roll around with at least three female acrobats comfortably.  The rooms are extremely quiet, with no noise from Fields Ave filtering in but not having any windows helps muffle outside sounds. It was hard for me to climb the stairs and I was disappointed that I did not get to see the roof top pool and Jacuzzi area but I went at night and it was locked.  Will try a day time visit next as I hear it is very nice. They offer everything you could want, food and beverage at the Cafe, 24 hour room service, 29" flat screen TV's with DVC/CD player, internet access, electronic safe, mini bar, foreign exchange, laundry service and a daily newspaper.  The location is ideal but is it worth the prices being asked?  With my budget, absolutely not but if I could afford it, would I do so?  I'm afraid it would not be my first choice but it would be in my top five listing.  My first choice for a room costing over $100 on fields Ave would be the super suite at the Royal Amsterdam hotel.  You can get in touch with the , Doll House Hotel by phone (045-892-2720, FAX 892-3267, Email info at dollhousehotel.com or check out their website . 

TAPS:

Charles Deheney, Australian, Age 60 died at Garcia today (12 Aug). He died of complications as a result of advanced cirrhosis.

This is a tragic story. Charlie has lived here off and on for more than 20 years. Four years ago, he started developing cirrhosis. He decided that he wanted to live and gave up alcohol 100%. His recovery was excellent and he regained virtually all of his health. About a year ago, he started drinking again. A couple of drinks here and there. The rest of the story is clear. He literally drank himself to death. At one time, he had tons of money, but lost all of his work contacts (telemarketing). He occasionally received some royalty payments which let him continue living here. A month ago, we convinced him to go to Garcia. His abdomen was distended with ascites so badly, he could barely walk or breathe. They emptied nearly 6 liters of fluid, but he refused further treatment. He returned to his house where his condition continued to deteriorate; ascites, emphysema, liver failure, congestive heart failure. Yesterday, some friends of his asked me to write a letter to the Australian Embassy detailing his condition. They were told that the Embassy would take care of him if they had a medical summary. Last night at 9 PM they visited him and got an ambulance to take him back to Garcia. He passed away around 6 this morning. In retrospect, we went to the Embassy far too late. He was basically destitute and could not afford medical treatment. We know that in the Philippines, this is a death warrant. Had the Embassy been informed, it is my suspicion that they would have intervened immediately. Another sad AC story. (This info was sent to me by Mo and I agree that it is a sad story, but not all that unusual for AC.  I also feel that the Australian Embassy would have assisted if notified earlier, but for sure, if it was an American the American Embassy would have sat on their hands and done nothing.  So goes the history of the American Embassy personnel in Manila.)

Edward McDaniel , passed away on 22 Aug 06, and was interred on 30 Aug at the Holy Mary Cemetery, Angeles City. The VFW honored Mac by handling handling the graveside ceremonies.  I had known Mac for many years as I witnessed the many hours he sat in his wheel chair at the RAO Mailroom and assisted hundreds of veterans with their VA paperwork and also made the trip with the VA Van to Manila every week to man the office there.  His health deteriorated during the last few years but he seldom complained.  As the last sad notes of the TAPS floated over those in attendance many of the hardened veterans in attendance held back that tell tale tear, a fitting goodbye to a veteran that will be missed. 

The information below was provided by the American Embassy, Manila for American citizens residing in or visiting the Philippines.  

Dear Sir/Madam:
If your e-mail concerns an emergency involving an American Citizen such as the death, serious illness or injury, arrest, or other serious threat to safety, please notify the American Citizen Services section by telephone. We can be reached during business hours, (Mondays thru Fridays between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.) at +63 (2) 528-6300 ext. 2246 or 2567. If it is after office hours the Embassy's duty officer can be reached 24-hours a day through the Embassy operator at +63 (2) 528-6300. Please note, however, that non-emergency requests will be deferred until the next business day.

All US citizens seeking passport, citizenship and birth registration services should first contact FEDEX (Fedex Call Center Exclusive Hotline: +63 (2) 879-4747, 7:30am - 4:30 pm, Mon-Fri, except American and Philippine holidays to obtain the necessary forms and list of requirements. General information regarding our services can be found at: http://philippines.usembassy.gov/wwwh3004.html .

If the information you require is not contained in the above link, the American Citizen Services Section will make every effort possible to answer your e-mail inquiry within three business days. Questions regarding visa issues are handled by the Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Visa Units and will not receive a response from this address.  Please consult the following websites, to obtain answers to most visa related questions, including IV appointment dates:
(1) http://www.travel.state.gov
(2) Citizenship and Immigration Services: http://uscis.gov/graphics/index.htm
(3) Immigrant Visa Unit: http://philippines.usembassy.gov/wwwh3023.html
(4) Non-Immigrant Visa Unit: http://philippines.usembassy.gov/wwwh3024.html
If you have a question regarding a specific case currently pending with the U.S. Embassy Immigrant Visa Unit, you may contact the Immigrant Visa Information Call Center which can be reached at 1-909-101-7878 is available Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm (Philippine Time). Callers from the U.S. can also contact the Call Center at 1-888-877-9888. There is a fee assessed to callers by the call center for its services. Call center customer service representatives are able to provide basic information regarding the status on file with the Embassy.  You may also write the IV Unit directly: From within the Philippines: Chief, Immigrant Visa Branch. United States Embassy 1201 Roxas Blvd. Ermita 1000 Manila. From outside the Philippines: Chief, Immigrant Visa Branch, PSC 500 Box 26 FPO AP 96515-1000 USA. The fax number for the IV section is +63 (2) 338-4129.  Please direct all concerns and inquiries regarding specific Non-Immigrant Visa matters to the following email address ConsManilaNIV@state.gov . Sincerely, American Citizen Services, U.S. Embassy, Manila, 1201 Roxas Blvd., Ermita, Manila, Philippines Tel. No.: +63 (02) 528-6300 ext 2246, Fax No.: +63 (02) 522-3242

The following extract from the ACTA Tourist Auxiliary Police (TAP) blotter is provided for your information.  Now, don't be fooled by those young innocent looking kids you see in the entertainment area, as you can see the little bastards can be dangerous.  Another example of the good work performed by the TAP.  "Operative Mark Allan Torres and Jerry Dorado called base asking for Mobile unit's assistance in apprehending suspects of snatching at Oak St., Sta. Maria I Subd., Brgy. Balibago, A. C.  Mobile 1 headed by Raymond Lumanlan, PO2 Edwin Pizares and PO1 Joseph Verni Mallari went to the location and upon arrival they met the complainant named GENALYN PALIOC Y REAS, 25yoa, single, waitress and resident of #1102 Oaks St., Sta. Maria I Subd., Brgy. Balibago, A. C., told the above that the suspects who snatched her NOKIA 6600 cellular phone ran towards a dimly lit portion area in that said vicinity wherein the above affiants prompted their search. The suspects were seen hiding in an abandoned tricycle so affiants PO1 Mallari, operative Mark Allan Torres and the complainant approached them and when positively pinpointed by the litigant, the two affiants apprehended the two and conducted a consented bodily search. Suspect wearing blue T-shirt and denim pants when searched by affiant Torres, confiscated in his possession and control one (1) NOKIA 6600 placed on his back waistline and one (1) Stainless BUTTERFLY KNIFE approximately 9 inches in length placed on his waistline while affiant PO1 Mallari on the other hand confiscated on the other suspect wearing red T-shirt one (1) IMPROVISED SCREW DRIVER approximately 10 inches long. Suspects were identified as 1.) CARLO ANGELO Y LUISUNG, 15 years old, single, minor of #338 San Joaquin St., Brgy. Sto. Domingo, A. C.  Mallari St., Brgy. Agapito, A. C. and 2.) ROMANO TINTERO Y MORELLA, 15 years old, single, monir of #149 Mallari St., Agapito, A. C. They were then brought to STATION 4 for proper investigation and disposition". 

Angeles City's First Pattaya Style Beer Bar is now Open. Mo has gone ahead with his renovation of the former Voodoo/DejaVoo and has turned it into AC's first Pattaya style open-air beer bar - with air conditioning! He's got air curtains on all the entrance which are surprisingly effective. Right now it's open from 12 noon till midnight, but as the staff ramps up, he'll make it a 24/7 operation. The bar's theme is sports and the accent is on rock and roll. There are 6 TVs including a 50" LCD rear projector and a 42" plasma TV. He has both cable and the popular satellite fed Supersport featuring sports from around the world including the US version of ESPN. Besides sports, they will be showing short films like Charlie Chaplin, Mr. Bean, Laurel and Hardy, etc. There is also a full sized pool table and darts. Drinks are priced between the mainstream Field Ave bars and Perimeter Rd. Mo's menu is also available.

Labor Day Weekend is always busy in AC. Go2Phil.com will be holding its 2nd pool party at Mo's Place. Rather than a wet T-shirt theme, there will be fun and games with 50 or so ladies from many of the Go2Phil.com member bars. Tickets are P700 for G2P members and P850 for non-members. Ladies admission is P400. Included in the price is all you can eat and drink during the entire event. Starting time is 12 noon. My advice is to get there early because these events rapidly become standing room only for spectators. 

MSG, USA, Retired Charles J. Dwyer has written and published a short novel titled "The Bangkok Bagman" which is on sale at the Veteran's of Foreign Wars (VFW), Oasis gift shop and the Swagman Fields for the low price of $6.00 or P240.  It is a sergeant's story of duty in the armed forces courier service covering tales of espionage, black market, and debauchery.  Now the debauchery sounds interesting especially since it takes place in Thailand, Korea, and the Philippines.  I read it and some of the debauchery sounded very familiar to me, it must be because I have listened to many tales of various sexual experiences during my 25 years in the Philippines and five years in Thailand.  As for me, I spent most of my years in those locations going to church so I could bless all those ladies I ran into and did my best to lead them to a better life.  But, like smoking, debauchery is a very difficult habit to kick!  Anyway, drop a dime or two for this book as fifty percent of sales goes to the local VFW and they need the money to help pay Mike's salary.  By the way, take the time to read the book while enjoying a nice meal at the VFW and then join the morning discussion group as comparisons of various experiences are discussed.

Pepper spray - someone, recently asked me carrying pepper spray on one's person is legal and if attacked can it be used in self defense.  I gave this question to Station 4 Commander, Col Mangune, and he informed me that it is NOT illegal to possess this self defense device.  But, guys, do not use it indiscriminately or as a joke in a bar.  That could get you in a bit of a jam.

Ah yes, a belated birthday greeting to Kevin Hunt who turned 50 last July.  Kevin has lived in Angeles for 15 years and resides at the Ponderosa apartments.  He stays busy by managing a few of the pool leagues in town.  He is a popular lad and many years ago he used to play darts in the Council Club Hotel, South Melbourne.  Hey Kevin, try to figure out who gave me that information.

Speaking of darts I have been in touch with Paul Lim , a great professional dart play from Canada who will be touring Japan soon for a dart demonstration and then coming to the Philippines at the invitation of the Puyat clan who sponsor Efren Reyes and other top Philippine dart players.  Seems that Puyat wants to bring in Electronic darts and has a container filled up with them.  Paul has been contracted to demonstrate them whenever Puyat has offloaded and installed them.  I dislike electronic darts for it changes the game but that is where the money is.  Paul told me that "it is like comparing snooker play to 9 ball play with steel tip darts being snooker and electronic soft tip the 9 ball comparison."  For now, steel tip darts is played in the Philippines and hopefully leagues will be formed again in Angeles City.  A lad named Paul is trying to set up a league and he is operating out of the Orange Lion.  When I finish my bar renovation I will my boards up again and we are hoping that E Z Rider will put a couple up as well.  We may start with just two or three locations but at least it will be a beginning.  I am trying to talk Paul Lim to visit me here in Angeles City where he can demonstrate some of his steel tip skills. 

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In the early weeks of Aug we had three typhoons , one after the other  and they brought a hell of a lot of rain to Angeles City.  Many people suffered but there was one family that came to the attention of one of the subscribers to the AC message board.  He related the story of a young girl and her family that lost everything they had because of the typhoon, including the fragile "home" they lived in under a bridge. They were squatters and, of course, like most squatters, there were young children involved and he indicated that he heard about the plight of this family from a good friend.  The mother and father had 7 children all under the age of 14 and they were huddled together under a canopy of trees trying not to get wet and all they had were the clothes on their back and looked like they had not eaten for days.  The reason I am passing all this information on is that so often you only read about the negatives about expats living here and that many of the tourists are frowned upon by the local residents.  But in this instance, the board member explained that he and his girlfriend visited the family and were appalled by the conditions and they bought groceries for them but also appealed to board members to help him find a cheap style housing for this family and that he would be willing to pay 1 years rent in advance for them.  The next thing he knew loads of food, clothes, and toys were flowing in as well as cash donations and housing was found for them.  It was all gathered at Mo's place and a caravan of trikes was loaded up with Dallas and others on the scene supervising and arranging delivery to this family.  This was not reported in the Filipino press, there was no publicity and none was expected.  It was just an act of kindness from the many foreigners that live and visit this City who expect nothing in return except maybe, once in a while, a kind word from the locals who do not always appreciate their presence and the millions of pesos that they bring to this community.  For sure, there are two adults and 7 children that will never forget the foreigners who reached out to help them.   

It was not too long ago that I wrote about the renovations and how much nicer Moon's Bar in Diamond Subdivision was and that I enjoyed my visit there.  Just last month a reader of this column visited me at my stable and told me that the lads in Diamond are boycotting the place because the owner, Bill, has become a victim of a Filipino wife (VFW).  It seems that after spending at least P500,000 fixing up the joint, when finished his wife told him to get out and she also kicked out the tenant who had been paying P10,000 a month for the front room.  Now the wife and her boyfriend can live there and enjoy the place without any customers.  I have not been able to locate Bill to get his side of all this but for now, the Diamond lads continue their boycott and I see no reason to argue against that. (late news reaching me is that Bill is back and that things are normal again.  I have not been there to check it out but will do so.  Rather than change anything here I will leave it as is since this must be some kind of domestic spat and Bill can fill me in.  Does this mean the boycott is over?  For now anyway???)  

Do not worry folks, for those that live in Diamond Subdivision, the loss of Moon's Bar is no loss at all, since there are other Clubs close by and I was able to visit the newest one, the "Pea-Eye Bar" which is located on the street going towards the Swagman in what used to be a butcher shop.  This was a fine small watering hole with excellent air-conditioning, a good view of the street, comfortable seating and some very friendly ladies.  The only reservation I had is that they are charging Fields Ave prices for their ladies drinks (P110) and EWR's (P1200) but it is not all that bad as long as you make sure to be specific when ordering the ladies drinks because they might order Baileys and milk which cost P150. The Marble Inn is right across the street and they are expanding again.  Very fine rooms are offered here at very reasonable cost.  Of course further down is the Patio and then the Swagman so this is a very convenient, busy location. 

TOURIST OF THE MONTH

Steven Johns from Jimboomba (Big Bang), Queensland latched on to sweet Emily at the Blue Boar Inn thereby becoming my Tourist of the Month.  He is single and has been traveling to the Philippines since 1994 but only three times to Angeles City.  He has visited other areas such as Tacloban and Eastern Samar and plans to see much more. On this trip he stayed at the Sunset Garden because, of course, he likes the gardens there and the quietness. He is a fan of Roy's Pub and found some good times at Treasure Island and Cherry's Club.  He will be returning in February for a bit more fun and relaxation.       

ROADHOUSE CHRISTMAS IN AUGUST

By now most of you know about the Christmas in August fund raiser for the Bahay Bata Street Children's Center organized by Mark Smith every year and the good cause it represents.  This year, thanks to the folks that come out every year to support the event with contributions, buying entry and raffle tickets, donating prizes and bidding on auction items over P600,000 was raised.  This amount fell short of the objective but considering the heavy rains that kept many away it was a fun night and very successful.  Of course this event will be followed up by the Dec fund raiser and without these fund raisers and the people who work so hard behind the scenes to make them a success, I am afraid that the continued operation of the Bahay Bata Center would be imperiled.  I am including a few pictures that reflect the festive mood of that evening.

FRIENDSHIP BRIDGE

The good news is that the Government is finally working on the final stage of the Friendship bridge - the bad news is that it will take about another three weeks to finish, maybe.  Right now it is causing a hell of a lot of traffic jams heading towards Fields Ave and also towards Hensonville, especially during the rush hours.  If one stops to look closely at the bridge, you can see where, this time, they appear to be constructing some sort of culvert that will divert water from heavy rains from wearing away the support posts of the bridge.  The final completion of this bridge will certainly be an event to celebrate. 

EMOTIONS

"Harry, I'm tired and I'm just not feeling as well as I used to", so answered Ted, the owner of the Emotions Club as he responded to my question as to why he was selling his dream club.  By the time you read this I suspect that the ownership will have been turned over to two Australian brothers from Port Hedland.  Ted has been connected with Angeles City for many years and, surprise, has worked with Emotions for six years.  It was hard for me to believe that six years has passed that quickly as I watched this Club being built and remember how excited Ted was to watch his "baby" being built.  A lot of things can happen in six years and "father time" has a way of forcing us to give up some things we love as we grow older.  Ted has aged but the sadness in his eyes as he spoke of giving up Emotions kind of hit home as even this old horse grows older and the aches and pains increase with each passing year.  But then, Ted caught sight of one of the fine looking waitresses from Honey Ko's who were serving at the Businessmen's lunch last month and there appeared a bit of a glint in his eyes that told me he was not out of it yet. 

I WOULD IF I COULD

For sure the lady I am choosing in the first picture on the left is the lady on the right and to emphasize that point the second picture has her solo. I spied this lady at the Businessmen's Club function held at the Fiesta Gardens and right away I knew I had to take her picture.  I did not have time to interview her other than to know that she works at Honey Ko's and according to Damien, if I wanted an interview I would have to get to her just as she gets to work.  Regretfully, I never found the time to follow up on my quest to meet her so I could provide more details.  But to me, just her picture displayed here is worth more than any words I could come up with.  Oh yes, her name is Jean and I don't think you need anything else to be very interested in this young lady with the beautiful smile and a sparkling personality.

BRASS KNOB OPENING

The newly built "Brass Knob" opened its doors to the public last month with Roy and Tess greeting everyone with big smiles.  This is a nice set up and I particularly like the idea of three separate rooms for the bar, pool table and dining.  Even though they are separate you still feel like part of the action as the separation is by glass only and you can see what is going on in each of the rooms.  The one problem on opening night was the exhaust system as it was not adequate enough to remove the smoke from the rooms.  This has been fixed and also the pool table has been replaced by a brand new top of the line table.  Since the opening I have stopped by a couple of times and found the customer base to be plentiful at the bar, the pool table and the dining room.  The Brass Knob is definitely a nice addition to the action beyond the Check Point where the action is friendly and less expensive.  Opening day pictures follow:

THEYrrrrrrrrr BACK!

The "Fat Belly Pigs" are back again and let the fun begin!  I will post a few pictures and more details next month because I do not have all the results of the activities or how much money was raised for the various charities they support.  I do know that the main benefactor is the Bahay Bata Children's Center and I will have to talk to Heiko and Mark Smith to get the finishing details.  This year I did not go to the weigh-in at Sub-Delicious because I am always worried that the floor will collapse.  Instead, I have decided to use my official picture of one of our local famous lads, Mike (Pig) Evans, manager of the Phoenix Hotel.  Now, Mike did not participate this year but until I find a suitable replacement he is my official poster model for this event.  Now, I have been told that his boss, a bit of a stodgy, proper Englishman, feels that since Mike is now manager of a prestigious hotel he should not be referred to as "Pig".  I completely agree!  Never again will I refer to Pig, as Pig, I mean Mike as Pig, or Michael as Pig, or "Sir" Michael as Pig or "Lord" Pig as Pig, or - oh, stuff it all, we love you just the way you are Pig, a man's man, and one hell of a nice guy but the "Fat Bellies" missed you this year!  Oh yes, everyone remembers "Pig" but what the hell was the name of your boss again?

MYSTERY PHOTOS

I figured after seeing that photo of the young man above you deserved something better to look at so here are some shots of ladies that I will not tell you who they are or where these pictures were taken.  You can search them out for yourselves.

I regret to report that the Sept Knights of the Brown Ring (AH Club) will not take place this month because of renovations to my little simple old bar.  With all the rain delays I suspect that the next meeting will not be until November, not October as I had hoped.  My outside bar is open and all local drinks are P30 during this period of construction and our kitchen is open to serve you great food at a reasonable cost.  Priscilla and I should be moving into our new digs this month and that means two more rooms will be available to include the one we have lived in for 16 years.  People are already asking to reserve that one with its large bathroom and closet. Well, it's time to get fitted for new horse shoes so I am outta here.  Hey, remember, be kind to horses!