The picture depicted here is NOT Priscilla the Horse though I must say Mrs Horse is so perfect that she should have that halo over her head.  Yep, Valentines Day is coming up again so check out your favorite lady and figure out some treats to give her.

In my January column I intended to say "Thanks" to some great people that supported my annual Christmas Charity project but I missed my own deadline.  So, this month I must acknowledge the following personnel:  Damien (Honey Ko's), Cliff Wilsey (VFW), Karel Heinen (PhilDutch Trading Corp.), Dave Marr (Philippine-Sundt), Tony Powers (VFW), David McLare, Chris Walsh, Tom Britt, Marine Steve, Larry and Amy Snyder, Dennis (HTH reader), Mark Smith and members of the Clark Centennial Rotary, Members of the Angeles City Hash House Harriers, Nick Sicat (Food Package Program), and the customers of the Blue Boar Inn that threw some coins and paper into my collection jar.  Thanks to the wonderful support I received Mrs. Horse and I were able to reach out to moreindigents and our Christmas Eve hospital visit brought smiles to some sick people.

It still bothers me as I recall reaching out to one wife whose husband was lying sick from a stroke and also one son of a father who was tending to his father who also had a stroke.  There are times when a patient or a helper sheds tears when Santa visits and those instances stay with me and as my family and relatives gathered to celebrate Christmas Eve last year, the image of those stroke victims stayed with me.  I could only hope that by the time the New Year came that they would be better but my own good health was appreciated much more than had I not visited those hospitals.  My eight year old son was with me and as we greeted some very sick children I could only hope that he would appreciate this Christmas as much as I.

Life is precious and so are the women we are married to who put up with our moods, drinking, bad times and good times as well as our barhopping adventures so to those ladies I wish you all a Happy Valentine's Day to include, of course, Priscilla the Horse.

    

That's right folks, it is that time of the year again.  I am sure there are a few lads out there thinking of your favorite gal over here in the Philippines and you are wondering how to send her something special without a lot of fuss.  Well, Rick to the rescue.  He has been providing this service for years so just click on his banner ad and follow his instructions.  Your lady will be so surprised and grateful that you will be overwhelmed with her affection when you return to this town of fun and games. 

TIDBITS

The monthly Knights of the Brown Ring (AH Club) will not take place in Feb.  The management of the Blue Boar Inn, because of the Classroom II debacle have decided to put future meetings on hold.  The climate just ain't right folks, I'm sure you understand.  By the way, it is strongly suspected that an expat in town who used to have a Club just off Fields Ave facilitated the entry of the CIDG agents into the Classroom II.  If true, that is very sad.

More often lately you will see more PNP checkpoints on Perimeter Road and other locations.  I overheard one foreigner referring to the police as "assholes" because they were stopping two wheel motorized vehicles.  In actuality, these were policemen from Station 4 just off of Fields Ave and they were manning the checkpoints for the protection of all citizens including foreigners.  The reason they were in front of Bretto's is because there have been four snatchings in that area of late and each of the incidents had foreigners as victims.  One American asked that a checkpoint be established there to try and put a stop to the robberies.  These are regular PNP, not traffic policemen or LTO personnel.  In fact, they are putting themselves in danger because of the stupid COMELEC law that requires ALL policemen to apply for an exemption to the gun ban during the four month period leading up to the May elections.  Imagine, the police have no guns but no doubt some of the thieves they are trying to catch do.  So, respect these guys and bear with them, they are just trying to do their job. 

DART TOURNAMENT - The Hotel La Casa/Blue Boar Inn will host its first monthly Open Dart Tournament on Saturday, 24 Feb, with registration from 6-7 PM, competition to begin at 7:30 PM.  The format will be blind draw doubles, 501 and cricket to 12, double elimination.  Entry fee is P500, P400 back out in prize money for the top three placers.  The first local drink is on the house.  First team out will get a free hamburger each.  There will be small trophies for the first and second place teams.  This is an excellent venue for darts as four dart boards are available for play.  With the blind draw format everyone has the chance to be competitive.  Two class A players will not be allowed to play together in order to even the playing field.  Lets bring darts back to Angeles City, all dart players are welcome, men, women, expats, locals, tourists, etc.  Grab those arrows and let the games begin!

Mr. Paul Willis, is it true that Villa Modesto has been sold?  Just curious because someone told me it had been.  Update:  I was able to see Paul on Fields Ave and enquired about this rumor and he emphatically informed me that it was not true. 

The infamous Tony "Gambino" has been seen around the Fields Ave bar scene, allegedly trying to keep a "low profile".  He is really succeeding as I have received Emails from six different people reporting "Tony" sightings.  I hear he will be here for only one week before he disappears again so anyone wanting to have a conversation with Tony better hurry.  Since I wrote this two weeks ago you might be too late by now.

Mo, will you be having a farewell blast after you sell Mo's Place, your bars and head out for the Barrio?

I would like to greet the active duty lads and civilian contractors who are stationed at Ganci AB in Bishkek Kyrgyzstan, a place I have never heard of until recently.  This base was named after a fireman that died in the 9/11 tragedy and it is right outside of a small village named Manasab which has the International Airport there that the USAF shares hence the natives refer to Ganci AB as Manas AB.  I have been told that the US was paying two million dollars a year to lease the base but recently, it was approved to increase the rental lease to 200 million dollars a year.  It seems that the local guy in charge demanded that increase in rental or the US could leave the country.  Boy, how many walls could we build or how many border guards could we hire to protect our US borders for that kind of money.  The base is referred to as the "Gateway to Enduring Freedom" and is the R&R base for the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and it also has an aircraft refueling mission.  The local women there are a mixed Chinese and Russian which makes for an interesting experience.  By the way, this is one of those places where some US Companies, like Sprint, make a killing on lucrative contracts that pay big bucks.   

I guess that one of the lessons learned quickly by the ABC Hotel was that it is not a good idea to charge P4,000 for a New Years Eve event.  There are a lot of new things happening in Angeles City but generally speaking many folks are not ready to spend P4,000 just for dinner and a few fireworks.  There are just too many alternatives at more reasonable prices.  I am sure that there was no intention to "rip off" any customers and no doubt management thought it was a good idea.  The fact that the event had to be cancelled can be marked up to "a lesson learned" and time to head back to the drawing board.  Any new establishment goes through some growing pains and yes, some can be more painful than others. There have been stories floating around that the ABC Hotel is not doing well and that there is a downsizing going on, some conflicts, etc.  Not so says Gerard!  Adjustments yes, especially in the restaurant where there were too many employees and the operation had to be streamlined.  Gerard is a very experienced businessman and when asked about the $99 cost of rooms he told me, "you know, we attract a clientele that do not worry about this price and we also, because of the quality of our establishment, cater to companies like FEDEX that contract rooms and we can offer them an attractive discount".  "Our occupancy increases with each passing month and I have no doubt that this Hotel will be successful".  You know, based on Gerard's past record I believe every word he says. 

Gentlemen, I keep hearing a lot of bitching about the higher prices being charged for rooms at some of the new hotels.  Admittedly, there are punters willing to pay the asking price but remember, if you shop around, there is a price for anyone's budget, i.e., you can still get a nice room with all amenities except a swimming pool at the Hotel La Casa for only P800 a day and a few pesos less for weekly and monthly stays and there are other hotels/guest houses around that same neighborhood of pricing.  I will try to feature a couple if I can get my ass moving out of my very comfortable new apartment.  Laziness is overtaking my ambitions.  Never fear lads, a few bowls of oats and I will be energized.  

Here is one of those unique Angeles City scenarios.  Boyfriend #1 is sending some 21 year old honey Ko to school.  Honey Ko goes to live with boyfriend #2 (both boyfriends are foreigners) but stays in touch with boyfriend #1.  Then #1 seeks advice as to what to do to help honey Ko who now claims she is being held against her will by boyfriend #2 in his house and is being abused. Gee, what advice to give?  I don't know what the police told him to do but I would have said "drop the bitch and start all over with another one!"  I can't figure out some Expats when it comes to the girls here.  It is a land of plenty yet a guy wants to stand by one lady he is sending to school and then goes to live with another guy who allegedly is abusing her and then wants help from the first sucker.  Just another story in fun city.  (someone sent me the following saying and I was wondering where to use it and I think this is as good a time as any:  "good judgment is the result of experience - Experience is the result of bad judgment") 

Last month I had to visit a dermatologist to have a few bumps removed that I was worried might be skin cancer but it checked out OK.  This doctor was recommended to me by an American that was visiting here and was treated by him.  He is professional and very inexpensive and since I was happy with his services I decided to pass on his name and address in case anyone coming here needed his services.  Dr. Sarmiento Pharmacy and Skin Clinic, 466 Rizal St, Angeles City.  Tel. 322-1507 with office hours 0900-1700 on Tuesdays and 0900-1900 hrs every Sat and Sun.  He also has a practice in Manila.  I found his procedure to be painless and quick and he does have a lot of patients to treat.  The clinic is located all the way downtown past the main area with the traffic circle and is right across the street from the fire station just before you go over a small bridge. 

The ever dynamic Blue Nile Group under the leadership of Richard Agnew has expanded into La Union.  They have taken over the La Union Southern Palms Resort and renamed it the Blue Nile Beach Resort.  You better believe that it will not take long before this Hotel will become one of the hottest places in La Union to stay at.  They have already transformed the old Stilletto's old boring bar into a far more interesting Blue Nile Beach Club.  For more information about the Beach Resort, visit the Blue Nile Executive Hotel Reception, 151 Fields Ave, Balibago, AC, Philippines or call 63-45-892-0120 or 63-45-332-1821 to 22.

The recent monetary donation to the Bahay Bata Street children's Center by Bill Mitchell was appreciated and this horse was more than happy to deliver it.  Stop by the Blue Boar Inn some time Bill, it will be interesting to summarize the circumstances that led to your generosity. 

Good to hear from Bob Graham who enjoys reading this column and misses Angeles City.  Regretfully, his wife does not miss it so I guess she won't let him come here anytime too soon.  Bob is the second one to remember the Cheyene Social Club but I thought it was renamed the "Stop and Shop" which holds many fond memories for me. 

This was an interesting article that one of my Rotary members sent me.  I do believe that this Spanish writer hit the nail right on the head.  Too bad that we don't have writers like this in our US left wing liberal press. 

Spanish newspaper article on Judaism (In English)

" ALL EUROPEAN LIFE DIED IN AUSCHWITZ
By Sebastian Vilar Rodrigez(*)

I walked down the street in Barcelona, and suddenly discovered a terrible truth - Europe died in Auschwitz.
We killed six million Jews and replaced them with 20 million Muslims. In Auschwitz we burned a culture, thought, creativity, talent. We destroyed the chosen people, truly chosen, because they produced great and wonderful people who changed the world. The contribution of this people is felt in all areas of life: science, art international trade, and above all, as the conscience of the world. These are the people we burned.

And under the pretense of tolerance, and because we wanted to prove to ourselves that we were cured of the disease of racism, we opened our gates to 20 million Muslims, who brought us stupidity and ignorance, religious extremism and lack of tolerance, crime and poverty due to an unwillingness to work and support their families with pride.

They have turned our beautiful Spanish cities into the third world, drowning in filth and crime. Shut up in the apartments they receive free from the government, they plan the murder and destruction of their naive hosts. And thus, in our misery, we have exchanged culture for fanatical hatred, creative skill for destructive skill, intelligence for backwardness and superstition.

We have exchanged the pursuit of peace of the Jews of Europe and their talent for hoping for a better future for their children, their determined clinging to life because life is holy, for those who pursue death, for people consumed by the desire for death for themselves and others, for our children and theirs.

What a terrible mistake was made by miserable Europe.

 

The Wet Seals Club has been sold to a group of four Expats who have not revealed their future plans for the place yet.  I wish them luck and if four partners can work together and agree on everything for more than a year I will be very surprised. 

Below is an Email sent to me early last month that points out that the pick pockets are still operating without any fear in SM Clark.  I related before how I was able to catch one and have her arrested after going after my wallet but it appears that the person in charge of security at SM needs to take his job a bit more seriously.  You need plain clothes operatives walking the Mall not a bunch of ill trained security guards in uniform. 

"Yesterday two foreigners within an hours time were pick pocketed at the entrance and exit door going out near the French Bakery and Pizza Hut.
The scam runs like this. You are walking towards the exit and a group will be walking behind you and another group will be in front of you who will stop at the door for some bullshit reason and jam up the door. They hit your pockets by bumping your legs on your side and the person behind the one who bumps you grabs your wallet and then re enters the mall. This is being done by a syndicate operating inside SM Clark by, you guessed it, YOUNG GIRLS who are well dressed walking with babies; its a group of them and they crowd you all of a sudden.

An American was hit hard and a Singaporean was hit hard at the same spot same day and SM Security did nothing to prevent it. While the Amercian was making a complaint in the security office instead of beefing up security and issuing an alert the same group did it again at the same spot same way within the hour.  Negligence on the part of SM or inside job on the part of security? ITs all caught on closed circuit video. The girls are on video who did and it shows how the scam works. I saw the video with the victim. SM Clark does nothing. The crime figures are sky-high at SM Clark. Security is very lax, and syndicates using females with kids and groups are operating there. Literally hold on to your wallet or cash when walking in groups or out the door with people bumping into you"

It was a nice normal Son's of Bacchus (SOB) get together on Thursday night, 11 Jan 07 at the Classroom II when suddenly the place was raided by elements of the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG).  They entered the Club with lock and loaded M-16's and cleared out all of the customers who then gathered on the sidewalk outside to view the drama as it unfolded.  What led to this incident that took place in a Club holding a closed door private party event?  The Son's of Bacchus is a weekly event that has been ongoing for a couple of years now and was a promotional idea by a group of Club owners joining together to provide, once a week, a bit of entertainment and food for a couple of hours in a private atmosphere.  The intent, of course was to attract customers to a different member Club every week thereby bringing in some extra income and at the same time bringing some customers together for a fun filled fellowship.  The SOB has gained in popularity over time and this weekly private party, closed to the general public, features beautiful dancers and meals catered by various food outlets in town.  What transpired on the 11th was that a CIDG operative (I have been told that there was more than one) was able to gain admittance to the party by purchasing tickets at the door to gain entry as regular customers (This was a mistake on the part of management to allow such entry).  Later, when some dancers performed in a manner that was a bit risqué one of the agents jumped on the stage and accosted the ladies while another went to open the locked entry door at which time the CIDG entered and cleared out the place.  They also gathered up at least 50 of the ladies that were performing that night to include employees and the Mamasans.  Regretfully, popular MC and all around nice guy, British National Bobby Gibson was also detained and taken to Camp Crame with the ladies.  According to a CIDG policewoman I spoke to they identified five dancers that they wanted to investigate on suspicion of being underage based, solely, on the fact that they looked young.  At Camp Crame they would have a dentist check them out.  The rest of the ladies would be checked for proper paperwork, ID and licenses, and if all was proper would be released the next day.  The next day I received word that the ladies would be released but Bobby was being held because the CIDG was insisting that he was a manager of the Classroom which, of course, is not true.  In this latest incident the CIDG did have proper documentation (mission order) and had coordinated the operation with the proper local police but not at Station four.  At this time the Angeles Clarkfield Tourist Association (ACTA) could not intercede as due process of law had been followed other than to monitor the proceedings to assure that no extortion attempts were entertained.  The question on the lips of many is "why was that operative sent in" and who was the person that pointed the CIDG to Classroom II on this particular night?  Naturally, these two questions will never be answered and life will return to normal on Fields Ave but that little gray cloud of apprehension will linger over Fields Ave for quite some time and many will wonder when or where the CIDG will strike again. 

A follow-up revealed that the group of ladies had been separated into two groups with the dancers being returned to Angeles City to the DSWD and the employees, (waitresses, waiters, etc) and regretfully, Bobby were taken for arraignment on charges of anti-trafficking and were held over at Camp Crame for the weekend.  Exactly one week later the employees and Bobby were released from detention at 1030 PM Friday, 19 Jan.  You better believe this was not a "get out of jail free" pass.  All the ladies held at the Haven Rehabilitation Center for Women were eventually released after going through a lot of questionable procedures and just plain bullshit where even ladies 20 years old and above had to bring their Mommies in to vouch for them before being released.  This caused a lot of problems and expense as these Mom's came from as far away as Samar.  How ridiculous!

There was not much ACTA could do to help the folks at were held at Camp Crame.  Ray Kelly was able to recommend a good lawyer and he stayed on the case for the whole week.  ACTA did ask the President of LACEM, Cel Paran, to investigate the complaints made by the ladies held at the Haven Rehabilitation Center, get statements from the ladies outlining their treatment there and submit a request to the Mayor for investigation through ACTA.  Regretfully, none of the girls involved would submit any complaints verbally or in writing so no investigation could be conducted.  If no one is willing to stand up and make a complaint then ACTA's hands are tied.

TOURIST OF THE MONTH

Now here is a guy that can live up to his name.  Meet Jim Jolly who maintains a jolly disposition every time he visits Angeles City.  Jolly has been visiting every year since Jan 2000 and stays for three months at a time.  On this trip he stayed at the DM Residente Extension and was very happy with the his choice of residence.  Jim hails from Redford, Michigan which I know is a bit chilly at this time of the year.  He is still holding down a job but has interest in darts, tennis, pool bicycle riding to include those big Harley Davidson monsters.  It was a pleasure to talk to Jim because I enjoy hearing about Michigan.  When I was a kid for New York City my folks used to take me to Pinckney Michigan every summer to visit relatives who had a farm.  I remember a 15 year old City kid falling off a horse, watching my Uncle and cousins slaughter cows for their meat packing business.  It was the Abney farm and I kind of liked a girl I met in Howell, a small town close to Pinckney.  Those are all ancient memories but ones I will never forget.  So every time I meet someone from Michigan I always ask if they are familiar with those two towns.  They sure are a long way from Angeles City, Philippines and Jim's three months should be up in March. 

LOST IN ASIA

Now I kind of like to plug some of the bars that have taken the chance to locate way up on Friendship Road (Don Juico).  Lost in Asia is in a location that is pretty well removed from a lot of the action that is to be found on Perimeter Road as well as Fields Ave.  Harro (the great one) is always willing to take a bit of a gamble and he does have a bit of a "fall down and get up again" history but with his experience and ideas he should be able to keep this club in the black.  So, if you find yourself being lost on Fields Ave, grab a jeepney and make it up to "Lost In Asia" happiness and fun at a reasonable price can be found.

YATS WINE CLUB

I have no idea why Yat's Denny and Phillip keep inviting me to their various functions, especially the wine tasting events like the one they had in December.  No doubt they realize that I love the place as for me it is like a kid looking in the display window of a candy store with not enough money to buy anything.  The Wine Club reeks of class, comfort, good wine and great food but you know me, a good meal is a Nathan's Hot Dog at the SM Mall.  But, would you believe that this night of wine tasting only cost P500 and it is planned to have one every other month with the alternate month taking place in Manila.  This means, if my calculations are correct that the next Yats Wine Tasting event should be held this month.

The P500 allows you five glasses of a wide selection of superb wines.  You better believe I could not describe the wines to you, hell, I was walking around with a glass of coke in my hand trying to hide it behind my camera.  The wines had names such as Sangiovese grape, Riesling, Tannat, Tem pranillo, Sauvignon Blanc, Touriga Nacional, Semillon and Vidal Blanc and when I ran into Denny, with coke in hand, and asked him about some of the wines he got rid of me quickly by asking one of the lovely hostesses to lead me to a board in which the names and their histories were listed.  Everyone on hand looked very knowledgeable to me and they were really into getting those five glasses of wine and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. 

There is another affordable treat offered by Yats and that is their new "Dinner Over the Wall" P550 dinner treat using their outside garden every Tues and Wednesday.  This is something that you really want to check out so take the time to reserve either a Tues or Wed nite for an outing with your favorite lady or with a group of friends.  This is a a deal to take advantage of but hurry up before they decide to raise the price.  This a good excuse for tourists to take a break from the entertainment area and check out Clark.  Too many people say there are limited choices when visiting Angeles City but on the base you have so many dining choices that you could take two weeks dining at a different location every night.  If you decide to do so, make sure Yats Wine Club is on your list. 

ROADHOUSE DEC FUND RAISER

Thank goodness for Mark Smith's two fund raisers during the year which raise money for the operation of the Bahay Bata Street Children's Center.  Through the efforts of Mark and the many people that attend these events who put forth so much effort and monetary donations the budget of the Center is maintained.  There are so many other organizations that also contribute during the year to keep this project afloat who should be recognized but most do not want publicity, they just believe in the efforts to give so many little ones a chance for their future.  The Christmas fund raiser drew less of a crowd than normal and I did not expect too much money to be raised but by golly, over P700,000 was taken in and that was fantastic.  Normally I would take a bunch of pictures but on this occasion I only took two.  The reason was that my shoulder was still messed up, my feet hurt, my knee hurt and I wanted to stay home.  But, no way was I going to be a no show and when I walked in that great guy Jonathon was sitting in his favorite spot with a reserved sign and four ladies already in his company.  He saw me and invited me take a seat and it was so comfortable that I did not want to move.  Additionally, two or three more ladies sat down as well because Jonathon is a generous host and has so much fun and the girls do to.  Hell, I wasn't going to move with so much beauty next to me.  So, I took a snap shot of the beauties with their host  and one of Dennis Mitchell.  I know why I took the pictures of the ladies but I'll be darn if I know why I took one of Dennis.  Well, actually I was going to take many pictures of those in attendance but I ended up with only Dennis.  What the hell, he is one of the good guys in town and in all the years I have known him I never took his picture nor has he appeared in this column.  So, Dennis, welcome and thanks for coming out to support a very worthwhile project.   

I would also like to take this opportunity to inform the readership that Mayor Lazatin has mounted a campaign to work with the various organizations in town to remove the underage children from Fields Ave.  Once a week there will be an operation to round up the children and overnight put the girls in the DSWD and the boys in the Bahay Bata Street Children's Center.  In the morning the parents can come to retrieve them but repeat offenders will find that the City is prepared to press criminal charges against the parents.  This puts an additional workload on the Center but if it helps these kids from being abused and keeps them safe then it is worth it. 

TAPS

Some people might wonder why I post my "Taps" section in this column.  I guess it is because I take life so seriously, I treasure every moment of life because it can be so fleeting.  Also, the people that are known here in this town and some that are not known are not celebrities, politicians, millionaires or persons of interest to the media.  I am talking about the expats that live here and even those tourists that might just be passing through.  Each and every one of them are important to me because they have brought their individual personalities to this area, they have spent money here, they have invested, they have raised families, they have dated our ladies, they have contributed to our community.  They are important, they are special!  Maybe not enough to be mentioned in Time magazine but important enough to receive a few words in this column.  Many have friends out of country who would not know of their passing until they read it here.  The mournful sound of the bugle as it plays taps can always bring tears to anyone's eyes but as the last notes play, or the last prayer is said I like to think that those he left behind realize, through my words, that their loved one was a VIP in our Expat community and will be remembered.

1.  Ken Brown, last December, a past member of the Rotary Club of Clark Centennial whose health had been slipping for a couple of months died in hospital from various health complications.  This came as a bit of a shock for many of us that knew Ken did not realize he was ill as, in my case, I had not seen him at all for a few months.  Ken was a personable, hard working man who enjoyed selling his various fragrances to people and always had a smile on his face.

2.  A tourist staying at the Perimeter Hotel on Fields Ave, Kenneth Thomas Robertson, 62, from Plumpton, Sydney, Australia.  Cause of death was cardiac arrest.  An empty pack of Viagra was found in his room.  I mention this only to warn people that there have been reports that the vendors selling Viagra on the streets of the entertainment area are not always selling the legitimate stuff.  An employee of the Insomnia Club reported the early morning death.  There is never a right age to pass away but at 62, Kenneth deserved a few more years but I am sure he was enjoying his holiday right up to the moment that damn heart gave out on him. 

3.  In the evening of 31 Dec a long time AC businessman who wanted to stretch his life a little longer so he could greet 2007, lost his fight with the grim reaper and left us.  Bill Lyons, the owner of the Patio and the Patio V was a long time resident of AC who was well liked and respected.  He fought a very, very long battle with cancer and survived a lot longer than doctors had originally predicted.  At the end, he was helpless and did not want to see any visitors and in fact, was not able to recognize friends anymore.  Many of us knew that his time with us was limited but, never-the-less, his passing brought a bit of sadness on New Years day to all those that knew this fine gentleman.  There is never a good time to die but sometimes, I suspect, that when one is reduced to 24 hours of pain, discomfort, helplessness and totally dependent on another that maybe, just maybe, that last breath might be a blessing.  Bill left people behind that loved him dearly but he will be remembered as a man that lived life fully and was a class act. He was laid to rest at the Clark Cemetery.

4.  Sadly, another widely respected and popular man, Robert (Bob) Byrne passed away on 3 Jan from a heart attack at home.  He was a business partner with Roy at the Brass Knob and had only lived in this area for two years.  The news of his death traveled like wild fire and during a pool match that day at the Fire and Ice Club the two pool teams raised their glasses in a toast to the man that will be missed by many.  He was 65 years old and still in the prime of his life with many dreams of the future.  He owned 5 Butcher shops in New Town, Australia. loved greyhound racing to the point that he owned some. He liked to fish too. His son Robert and his wife Lynda and his daughter Chris were at the wake in Brass Knob. 

5.  Many of the friends of Glenn Hartell (Australian) were saddened to learn of his demise in Australia on 9 Jan.  Glenn was a retired Custom's Officer and came to Angeles City around 14 years ago where he married a beautiful young lady named Irene and had a daughter named Claire.  Regretfully, he and Irene separated a number of years ago and Glenn remained in town and was a popular figure who stayed busy by playing on various pool teams and enjoying his spare time by frequenting a few Clubs on a regular basis.  Late last year it was noticed that his health appeared to be failing and a friend of his got him to return to Australia in December to seek proper health care.  While in Australia he suffered a stroke and was found dead on the floor of his residence.  An autopsy revealed that Glenn had cancer of the stomach and the brain as well.  A very sad ending for a lad that never reached his 60th birthday.  Another long time member of our Expat community has left us and he will be remembered but it appears that lately, our ranks are diminishing a bit too quickly.  I wonder if it is something in the water?  

6.  On 7 Jan during a meeting of the Josephville I Home Owners Association, Clarkview Subdivision, David Skamarak, who was sitting at the head table, laid his head down on the table and to the shock of all in attendance, suffered a heart attack.  Clive Pollington, who was in attendance performed CPR but his attempts were futile.  This popular gentleman will be missed and no doubt, if there is some kind of home owner's association up above, he will be volunteering to help out. 

AN INTERESTING CHARACTER

I am not a morning person as it takes a bit of work and time to develop my normal cheerful self before noon.  But one morning a cheerful fellow who calls himself "Ferrari Doug" and his girlfriend, Rose Marie stopped by my stable and his cheerfulness was infectious.  This guy could talk, he had stories that had me laughing, he was full of life and good humor and even held my son's interest.  His real name is Douglas C. Daniels and he is into rare coins, currency, insurance, estate appraisals, Ferrari collectibles and "weird stuff".  On his card he writes "unlimited cash available $$$$" and he owns three Ferrari's in the States which causes him to be well known by the California Hiway Patrol in riverbank, Calif., near Modesto.  He also has one SUV and four motorcycles and dresses in shirts and pants with multiple Ferrari logos affixed.  Would you believe that he speaks, fluently, 8 languages and will demonstrate upon request.  He visits the Philippines every two or three months searching out old coins.  He has been in the coin business for 53 years and will retire in two or three more years.  Rosemarie is from Mindanao and is nearly speechless next to Doug.  Doug enjoys the action at the Nasty Duck and the Gentlemen's Club.  If you ever see Ferrari Boug around town, stop and talk to him, believe me, you will not be bored. 

CLARK HOSTEL

Normally when one thinks of a Hostel the image of backpackers on very limited budgets comes to mind.  Also, the image of a Hostel itself is not very appealing as well but this is not the case with the Clark Hostel.  It is a very clean, appealing, upscale Hostel, with not just one main building but two other separate buildings as well with a wide range of room rates.  It is located on 2041 Ninoy Aquino Ave, corner M.A. Roxas Highway, Clark Special Economic Zone, Clarkfield, Pampanga.  For inquiries and reservations call (045) 599-7600/599-7601, FAX - 599-7462.  Their rooms which have TV and air-condition range from P1950 ++ to P2,250 ++ which includes breakfast for two.  Now, for the backpackers and other budget minded folks they have the dorm rooms which are located in annex B and they run from P200 ++ per bed/person (4 beds sharing) with linen (P125 w/o linen) to standard queen P800 ++ and P650 ++ (no linen, no TV, no AC).  Would you believe they even have one suite for P4,400 inclusive with a sitting area and twin beds.  Internet access at the main building costs P70 an hour.  Their check in time is 1400 hrs and check out is 1200 hrs.  The premises, buildings and rooms are spotless and as you can see, a price range suitable to one and all.  I was really surprised and by the way, the two receptionists, Shei and Joan are both single. 

DOWN FOR THE LONG COUNT

They have been together for 15 years, working hard, taking care of each other and their family, running the business and building for the future.  Clive (Roy's Pub and Restaurant) held on to his freedom and nights out with the boys for quite some time but on 18 Jan, at the Fortune Hong Kong Restaurant Angeles City Vice Mayor Zalamea pronounced the magic words "I now pronounce you man and wife" and with that the wine started to flow.  The very next day was the Angeles City Businessmen's Club meeting at the Fiesta Garden Hotel and everyone noticed that Mr. Clive Pollington was absent and many wondered if wife Joyce had changed the rules already.  Only kidding Clive, may you and Joyce enjoy many more years of happiness together.  I will say that this is the first time I have seen your entire family together and you have one hell of a good looking set of kids there.  You are truly blessed!

THE FORTUNE HONG KONG RESTAURANT

In this column I have mentioned the Fortune Hong Kong Restaurant in passing many times.  The locals that live here all the time all know that this is one of the better Chinese restaurants in town.  I do not like to use the word "best" in writing about food because everyone has different tastes so I will stick to the word "excellent" when describing the cuisine at this restaurant.  Over the years, under the capable leadership of general manager Ped and chef Sammy this restaurant has become so popular that they enjoy a good crowd every night and their service is beyond reproach.  They are sought out to cater parties because of the quality of their food and service.  So, in this month of February I wish the management and staff of this wonderful restaurant a very happy Chinese New Year.

I WOULD IF I COULD

It has been a long time since I stopped in for a drink at Garfields, located on Perimeter Road but a couple of months ago I received an Email from Mark, the manager, telling me that I could find my "I would If I Could" lady there.  In fact, he felt that I could find more than one and suggested I make a visit right away.  Well, as usual, I became busy and forgetful and just plain forgot his suggestion.  One afternoon last month I decided on the spur of the moment to stop in at Garfields for a cup of coffee and just happened to have my camera with me but still did not remember that Email.  While sipping my coffee and chatting with my mate Andy I noticed the waitress serving me and Andy.  How could I miss her as she leaned over with a pair of 36B balloons rubbing my arm and when I moved my eyes away from the obvious I noticed that her figure wasn't bad and when I finally got to the face, well, that wasn't bad either.  Lorna Dizon, 22 years old, from Angeles City has a one year old girl to raise, has 3 brothers and one sister.  Now, the good news is that she told me that "age does not matter" when it comes to finding a good man, and of course I believed her.  I sort of think she might not worry about the age too much but possibly, the income of a potential beau might come under consideration.  For those of you interested in Lorna, her Email address is lorna_cute@yahoo.com or maybe that was a dash instead of a dot.  Hell, I forget!  Anyway, she works at Garfields and you know what, I saw at least 5 months worth of I would if I could ladies besides Lorna.  Guess I will be stopping in for another coffee real soon.  How bout joining me.

 THE SUN MOON HOTEL

The Koreans have just about taken over the Friendship area but now are spreading out their investments in other locations around town.  The Sun Moon Hotel, Korean owned of course, has opened a 13 room attractive hotel just around the corner from Bambino's Italian Restaurant.  When I checked it out it was fully booked because with their present 30% discount you can get a very nice room for as low as P800.  Their normal rates are P1200 for a single, P1600 for a Queen and P1800 a night for a King.  The hotel is within walking distance of Fields Ave  and a five minute drive to the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA).  Their rooms are clean and spacious, fully air-conditioned, hot and cold water, internet and Wifi ready, in-house restaurant and 24 hours room service.  The address is:  San Angelo St. cor. 22nd Stl, Josefa Subd. Malabanas, AC.  Tel is 63-45-625-6504/05, Email:  info@sunmoonhotel.com or liza@sunmoonhotel.com. 

THE TIGER HOTEL

OK, here we go again, another Korean owned hotel and another very nice clean attractive establishment inside and outside.  This one has four floors and I don't know how they got away without putting in an elevator but for the benefit of my readers I struggled up to each floor.  This one is located on Narciso street just down from the main jeepney terminal on Fields Ave.  They offer 34 rooms but no food is available but I did smell some foul smelling Kimchee cooking from one of the rooms as I passed so I guess there are some innovative Koreans that manage to cook in their rooms.  They have a free internet service in the lobby, no monthly rates and no swimming pool.  The rates are very reasonable at P950 for standard, P1,000 deluxe, P1200 Superior and P1300 for superior.  The Superior has a larger TV, microwave over and a hot and cold water dispenser.  This Hotel was fully booked as well.  The address is 126 Narciso St., Josefa Subd., Malabanias, AC.  Tel number is 63-45-892-3333/5555, Fax is 892-2252 and you can check them out on www.tigerhotel.co.nr.  All rooms have a refrigerator and prices include the 12% VAT. 

AN ORIGINAL AT THE MALL

For a long time I have been telling Priscilla the Horse that our Clark SM Mall did not have anything different to eat, they duplicated what is at the Mall in San Fernando and other Malls around the Philippines.  But now, at last, to my great delight along comes the Pollo Rico Restaurant at the Clark SM Mall.  It has only been open for a little over a month and already it is the talk of the town.  They have burgers, chicken, pasta and various curries which are all filling, tasty and inexpensive.  They have various specials which are great deals and can you imagine a P99 buffet every Wednesday from 1100 hrs to 1400 hrs.  They are also offering a fine dining experience once a week and the offerings will change every week.  The place has a unique design that sets it apart from the other eateries in the Mall and they even have an upstairs dining area which has a Japanese style seating arrangement.  Mrs Horse and I ate a meal in which soft drinks are included for a cost of only P237.  I had the curry, spring roll and a coke and the Mrs had chicken and spaghetti.  There were many other offerings and for sure I will return to check them all out over time but one thing I can guarantee, I will be checking out that P99 buffet.  If you stop in say hello to the manager, Art who worked for four years on a luxury liner but is more than happy to have his feet back on terra firma. NOTE:  This horse checked out the Wednesday buffet and it more than met my simple criteria which is "did it fill me up, was it good and was it at a reasonable cost".  All three categories were met and I stuffed myself, mostly on the curry and rice.  If time permits I will be there next Wednesday as well!

THE HOLE WAS PLUGGED

Late last month I went to get a few parting pictures of the "Hole in the Wall", say goodbye to the waitresses, especially Michelle, and get one last steak.  To my dismay, I got there just in time to see Disco Dave locking the place up, I was too late, the hole in the wall was "plugged" for good.  I really liked that place, the interior design, the food and the waitresses.  I enjoyed watching those motorcycle characters sitting around their special table telling their stories of days gone by and those adventures still to be looked forward to. No more will we see those special Bar-B-Que days when old Garth would hold court with fantastic food offerings.  I wanted to break the lock off the door and force another day, a week or a month but it was not to be, I could only gaze sadly and take one last picture and add the Hole in the Wall to that old Angeles City memory bank of great places that are now history.  The American Steel lads are still around but no matter what new place they might open, it just won't be the same.  Hey guys, thanks for the memories.      

The Pit Bull Internet Cafe is located at the corner of A. Santos and Surla Streets. The owner wanted to introduce folks to his location and figured a little bit of publicity would not hurt.  He was thinking about running a monthly ad as well but, despite my love of money, I suggested that we stick with just this one announcement.  Despite the hundreds of Internet Cafes around he lucked out in that he found a location that is not inundated with competition, but he does not offer anything different from other similar businesses except convenience to those in the immediate area.  I did like the personal attention of the staff and the friendliness and there is also a small Sari Sari store at one end of the building so grabbing a cool drink is a convenience.  In the immediate plans is a bigger air-conditioning unit which will be a big help in attracting more customers and like a pit bull, once bitten he won't let you go, so check out this friendly neighborhood Internet Cafe.  Tell them Harry the Horse sent you.  It won't get you anything but at least they will know you read about them in this column. 

MISS AUSTRALIA DAY

Once again the Orchid Inn boys did a bang up job is providing a wonderful venue for the Miss Australia Day beauty contest.  The event was well attended and Peter O'Donnell did his usual masterful job as MC.  I was particularly impressed with the musical group "Live Band" which I felt was much better than past bands that performed at this event.  There were two categories, the bathing suit and gown presentations and it was certainly to watch as those lovely ladies with very adequate bodies displayed some lovely bathing suits.  As usual, the gowns were fantastic and MC Peter was pleased to see that they were more colorful than last year.  I must say that it was much easier to select the top two winners this year than at last years event.  It is not that the ladies this year were not attractive, it is just that last year there were more in the FANTASTIC range.  I am pleased to say that as soon as the ladies come out in their bathing suits I was able to immediately make my choices of the top two and sure enough, I was correct.  Once again Mr. Phil Terrell helped to organize the judges and providedthree beautiful sets of jewelry to be offered up at auction.  The auctioneer was able to bring in a record P70,000 which the RSL will add to its charity fund.  Once again we were blessed with the attendance of Miss Anne Curtis, Philippine Actress who very patiently posed for many, many pictures with the assembled guests.  Oh yes, it was Miss SheilaCaparas, sponsored by the Orchid Group who ran away with top honors.  I must commend Clive Pollington for the dedication he displayed in guarding the contestants dressing room  - no one could drag him away from his post.  It was a wonderfulevening and I could not think of a better venue for this event so lets hope we can return there again next year.   

ROUND AND ROUND SHE GOES

It was the soft opening of the new Carousel Club and the place was packed, which of course is not unusual for an opening night.  I normally shy away from opening nights and prefer to visit a few nights later to get a feel for the normal flow of business.  The original date for the soft opening was delayed a week because, as usual, the electric company took its own sweet time in hooking up the juice.  I was looking forward to seeing the stage rotate and watch a lady ride the one horse on display.  But, on this night, that stage just decided to stand still.  No doubt this will be rectified by the time the official grand opening gets underway this month.  That is the reason for soft openings, to uncover the glitches and get the problems fixed.  The stage has its own uniqueness but everything else is routine Fields Ave, another Club has opened its doors and in time will find it own niche of customers.  The prices are in line with the rest of the establishments on Fields and the ladies, well the ladies are also the same.  A few lovelies will stand out, many are average and a few are on hand just to fill the numbers.  There were a number of dancers that came over from the La Pasha and that is to be expected since both clubs have the same owner.  The Carousel will also be following another established trend on Fields Ave in that they will be offering rooms above the Club, a good business decision.  It is good to see new Clubs opening for that is far better than seeing closures due to a drop in business.  Maybe one year we will meet a saturation point but for now, let the good times roll! 

Are you wondering what will be replacing the Winchester Club and the Hole in the Wall?  Well, this is a picture of the proposed 10 story (maybe 12) Lexus Hotel that will rise on the site previously occupied by those two establishments.  These will feature vacation apartments and could be an income earning investment for investors.  An attractive feature is that this complex will be located in the heart of the entertainment district. 

The owners are constructing, at the back of the Central Hotel, a model unit of one of the apartments being offered. This is the first time I have seen this in Angeles City and it is a good idea.

I will be offering more details on this project as it gets off the drawing boards. 

Richard Rehm, a friend from Las Vegas, NV sent me the following joke -

A Mexican drinks his beer and suddenly throws his glass in the air, pulls out his pistol and shoots the glass to pieces. He says, "In Mexico our glasses are so cheap we don't need to drink from the same glass twice."

An Iraqi, obviously impressed by this, drinks his beer, throws his glass into the air, pulls out his AK-47 and shoots the glass
to pieces. He says, "In Iraq we have so much sand to make glasses that we don't need to drink out of the same glass twice either."

The Texas girl, cool as a cucumber, picks up her beer and drinks it, throws her glass into the air, pulls out her gun and shoots the Mexican and the Iraqi, and catches her glass. She says, "In America we have so many illegal Mexicans and Arabs that we don't have to drink with the same ones twice. God Bless America!
Hee, Hee, you've got to love those folks in Texas.  Hey Richard, hope you sent it to that left wing liberal Senator Harry Reid as well.  What better way for me to get the hell out of here but, remember, be nice to horses, don't shoot, I'm LEGAL!