TIDBITS

I never know where that old Angeles City survivor will pop up next. Old Dave Donney who always enjoys a drink or two will be celebrating his Christmas in Qatar, no doubt at the good old Rugby Club. He sent me this message for one and all: G day Horse and Merry Christmas to all my old Mates in Angeles City. Been here in Doha for a couple of months Working for the Oil /gas company as you can see from my signature line. Have an 8000 man labour camp under my control,a lot of Filipinos but mainly Indians(there are over 20 million in the Gulf region). Enjoying a drink at the Rugby Club and a couple of other places CENTCOM is just down the road and getting bigger Anyway will catch up with you in Feb, doing an extended stay as we are building a $25billion plant expansion and I have lots of logistics to perform. Say g day to all and your readers. Regards, DAVID DONNEY, LOGISTICS MANAGER, QATAR GAS E.S.U. Cell +974 6846624 DOHA, Cell + 63 9185087585 PI

I came across this news item I just have to pass on. This is an indication of how stupid and ridiculous this whacko organization PETA has become. Why in the world these Monks even listened to these idiots is beyond me. But this goes along with the current trend in America right now, try to appease every minority organization and do everything to be politically correct. I guess that soon, all animals in America will be given the right to register to vote, collect welfare, free medical care, free schooling and an open invitation for all animals in neighboring border countries to cross our borders freely. [Post and Courier] SOUTH CAROLINA - PETA's attack brings sad end to Mepkin Abbey's egg enterprise.

"The monks at Mepkin Abbey have supported their contemplative lives for 40 years largely by supplying eggs to local grocery stores. No more. The abbey has succumbed to a campaign undertaken last year by the animal-rights activist group, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. Too bad."

"Among PETA's stated ideals is the contention that animals are "not ours to use for food, clothing, experimentation or entertainment." Based on that position, PETA would likely view any egg-laying operation as animal exploitation and fair game"

"In our report, a PETA official expressed delight in the Mepkin announcement and offered to help the monks in the transition "in whatever way they want." We'd say they've done quite enough already."Puerto Galera resort bar and restaurant

Hi Mr. Horse,

Are you aware of the current scam by landlords afoot in Angeles City? To our discomfort, we discovered it when we were squeezed out of our apartment by our landlady, so that she could raise the rent on the new tenants. In looking for a new apartment we learned that landlords are no longer just requiring "first and last" months' rent, but are demanding as much as four months rent in addition to "first and last." We found a place we liked and talked the new landlord out of the two additional months that he at first "required." But, unfortunately, I've talked to many guys , usually new-comers to AC, who have submitted to this larceny, thereby allowing themselves to be ripped off, since it's just about guaranteed that they will never see the deposit money again from these extra months of deposit. Please alert the readers of your column so that they may defend themselves by resisting this sort of thievery. Best regards, Lawrence Fee. (I don't know how many landlords in AC are following such a policy but it sure does seem excessive to me. For our apartment rentals Mrs. Horse asks for first and last month rent and also a security deposit that I think is fairly standard. Anything over that is getting a bit greedy).

Hello to: Joel Werkema, Offutt AFB, Nebraska; Mike Gaston from Alabama (Mike dropped by my stable to donate to our Christmas Charity. He is retired, and trying very hard to enjoy living here); Earl Honeycutt, PH.D, Elon Univ., Elon, N.C., Luis, South Korea, Vic Adkins, Las Vegas.

Celia, from Honey Ko's, would like to wish Joseph, living in Villa Sol, a very Happy New Year.

It looks like Mo is trying to turn Kokomo’s into a mini-Nana Plaza. Last month he opened King of Diamonds and next week work begins on another bar on the A. Santos St. side of the building and later this year he will be replace 8 hotel rooms with 3 or 4 more bars and, perhaps, a Thai style massage on the balcony level. He’s advertised these bars as turnkey operations for sale for $20,000 including everything except staff and permits. They will have 5 year leases. Considering that small bars on Lower Fields Ave are selling in the $100,000 range, this might be a good deal. The question is if 2nd floor bars can attract enough customers to be profitable? Personally I think it will depend on who runs each bar. Remember, in Thailand those 2nd floor bars had some very interesting "shows" that attracted customers. Here, in AC, those shows are a definite no-no! If the Thai massage duplicates a REAL Thai massage parlor I believe Mo might make some money out of it and even this Horse might be a customer once in a while.

It’s now being widely reported that the long awaited highway between Clark and Subic will be open mid-March. One of the locals drove his ATV from Clark to Subic and reported that it is 95% complete. This might be one of those typical Filipino things. The highway was scheduled for completion in November, but the contractors ran into delays and asked for 300 additional days. Of course, the Philippine government said no, but agreed to 6 months (May). If it opens in March, the press will tout ‘completed 6 weeks ahead of schedule’ and the contractor will ask for an early completion bonus. Only in the Philippines!

Dan, the owner of Chic & Ribs Restaurant next to the Blue Nile is selling a year 2000 Ford Expedition 2K, model color black for P520,000. Anyone interested can call him at 09209215496.

A Mr. Miles Johnson owns a one and a half year old Dalmation dog that is deaf and sadly he would like to find a good home for it. He has moved out of his house and into a duplex that does not allow sufficient room for the dog. If he cannot find someone to take the dog then he will have to put it down and that is sad. I have seen him walking the dog every day and it is a very good looking pet. If you are interested please call Miles at 09215775237. Miles is currently living in Josephville 1 subdivision, Clarkview.

Dust off those darts, get ready for the big annual darts happening! Yes folks, it is that time of the year again. The Annual Australian Day (RSL) Invitational Dart Tournament will take place on Saturday,26 Jan 08 at the Hotel La Casa/Blue Boar Inn, Clarkview, Angeles City. Time of registration/play will be at 7 PM, entry fee - P600. This is an invitational match limited to expats only, men and women. It is for steel tips with the format being blind draw doubles, two out of three cricket to 15/501. There will be a losers bracket and Ron Chesley, if he can stay off the piss will assist in organizing the tournament. P100 of each player's entry will go to the RSL. The remainder will be paid out to the top three teams. The venue is excellent with no shadow lighting over the four boards available for play. There is always a large contingent from Barrio Barreto in Subic and this year we are hoping to have a better showing of participants from Angeles City since we have a dart league here. If you love the game of darts and you want to have a good challenge then you do not want to miss this event. By the way, I am talking about steel tip darts and if you forget your personal darts, not to worry, Jimmy D at the Blue Boar has a few extra it can lend out.

There is a cute lady working in the Orange Lion named Sully who is most anxious to change her last name to Jones. Since that is quite a common last name, let me add the first name of Gavin.

Recently a local periodical by the name of "Punto!" ran an article by Joey Pavia, 3 Dec 07 where he interview the newly elected Balibago Barrio Captain Tony Mamac. He quoted Mr. Mamac as disclosing to Punto that he will remove the Tourist Police in his village. He added that "there are so many complaints against them, that's why they are not welcome." That is a sad statement from Tony as I know that the Angeles Clarkfield Tourism Association (ACTA) was hoping to continue a good working relationship with this village chief as it was under the previous Barangay Captain, Attorney Flores. It is strange to hear such a comment since the Tourist Police work closely with the local PNP and in fact are designated as PNP Tourist Aides" and have been extremely successful in reducing the crime rate last year in the Tourism Zone. In fact, most complaints are from the criminal elements who are no longer able to operate in that area. Mr. Mamac has an ambitious program for his term and it is hoped that he changes his attitude towards the Police Aides who are willing to work with him to achieve those objectives. After all, the Mayor and the City Director have acknowledged the value of these volunteers who are as dedicated to maintaining peace and order as Tony Mamac is.

A reader of this column sent me this item that kind of surprised me. I have known the owner and management of the Blue Nile Group for a long time and this is the first time that I have heard of such a complaint. Here is one thing I do know, I would not deal with a Mamasan when I know there is an Expat manager on duty and should have been called over to discuss this issue. Also, do not believe for one moment that there is nothing that can be done for someone who refuses to pay a bill. The customer being drunk does not help the situation and his "it should be more like P2,000" leads me to believe that he was not that positive. But, I do not like any Club padding a bar, prices are high enough, and I am sure Mr. Agnew would not tolerate this procedure at all. I forwarded this complaint to the management and asked for their side but did not receive any reply. As I have warned before, no matter what Club you go into, try your best to keep track of your bill as you go along. Not every sweet thing hanging onto your arm can be trusted. (update - I checked with Richard Agnew and he did not know anything about this and also the manager Bruce did not know as well. Believe me, this will be looked into and management does NOT tolerate this sort of behavior).

"I know this is a serious accusation to make.. but since it's fact I don't have any problem posting about it. I'm here in AC for the Aussie Invasion - a long time friend of mine went out to Blue Nile a couple of nights ago. He admits he was drunk already when he arrived - but since he's been coming to AC for over 10 years and getting drunk every night I have no reason to doubt what he says. He bought about ten ladies drinks over the period of about an hour. When he decided to leave and the bill was tallied up and came to over P7000. He immediately said there was a mistake and suggested it should be more like P2000 at most. He checked over the bill and saw they had about 30 drinks down for one girl, plus drinks for him that he would never order. He argued with the head waitress and with the Mamasan saying that if the girl had consumed 30 tequilas in an hour she would be unconscious. He refused to pay it. The arguments continued and as he saw no other option he went to get the tourist police to assist him.

They were no help and said that he has to pay the bill. He didn't have enough money with him, so they escorted him back to his room to get more.
Yesterday I went to see an ex-Neros Mamasan that I have known for a number of years. She's now working elsewhere and confirmed that bill padding was a regular practice at all of the Blue Nile group of bars and it was the reason she eventually left.

She said that the management are aware of it, but do nothing. She said that if you refuse to pay your bill they can't do anything to force you to pay, so I guess my friend made a mistake by getting the tourist police involved. Bottom line.. check your bill regularly - particularly when you're in one of the Blue Nile group of bars. Cheers. (The Blue Nile remains one of the most popular Clubs on Fields Ave and enjoys a pretty good reputation for honesty).

Here are some people I hope have a very lousy Year 2008. Fidel Castro, Cuba, Daniel Ortega, Nicaragua, Hugo Chavez, Venezuela and Evo Morales, Bolivia and of course all the members of the Bolivarian Alternative for the Americas (ALBA) who oppose US Policy in the Region. I guess I could add Hillary Clinton, Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi as well.

A local Expat by the name of Terrence (Terry) Hainsworth was packing his bags to return to Australia but at the same time he got into a bit of a tiff with his long time girlfriend and was requesting her removal from the premises. Now, as so often happens some of those sweet ladies we like to live with can be very difficult to cut relations with. In this case, the girlfriend left but returned shortly with the police and claimed that Terry had abused her seven year old daughter. One thing led to another and old Terry found himself in the hoosegow and needed the services of a very competent local lawyer by the name of Ronaldo P. Duro who this Horse recommends when the necessity of legal counsel arises. This whole thing smelled of a phony accusation from the start but the Fiscal remanded it for investigation. Up to the time of this writing poor Terry is still the guest of the station 174 jail. But an update was provided by Attorney Duro as follows;

"Terrence and the mother of the child have reconciled and the mother (joy) agreed to desist and withdraw their complaint against Terrence. We visited Terrence this morning and we have finalized their reconciliation; I have already finished preparing the papers we need in support of our move to have the case dismissed by the court.

Hence, tomorrow I will be accompanying joy and her child to the judge and let them tell the judge that Terrence is innocent and he was wrongfully accused and also to request from the judge to have the case set for hearing early, preferably next week for possible dismissal due to failure to prosecute because without the active participation of the complainant the case against Terrence will not prosper. We hope that the judge will grant our request to have the case heard next week!" The latest update received from his attorney is that:

"We went to the court last Friday (December 21) and submitted affidavits of recantation of their complaint/accusations against terry. I also filed an urgent motion to set the case for an early setting preferably on December 26 or 27 or 28, however, the judge is already on vacation leave until the end of the year so the case of Terry was set instead on January 3, 2008 at 9am for the hearing on the possible dismissal of the case. Terry is still under detention." I tell you folks, even when innocent it is difficult to get out of jail, especially when a judge is on vacation because here, they do not transfer the case to another judge. They would rather let folks just stay in jail! (let me say that as tragic this is, to be in that shit hole of a prison over the holidays, I think that Terry might have been a bit surprised at the outpouring of support he has received from the many that know him and even those that do not know him. He has had visitors bringing him food, fruit, books and many other items. I believe that if it was possible a whole bunch of guys would have volunteered to break him out of that place. But, being law abiding folks, they could only lend verbal and actual support to a fellow Expat. As usual folks, amongst the hundreds of hard drinking, hard playing, Expats living in Angeles City there are a bunch of soft hearts for a comrade in trouble and I suspect that there is no way that Terry will be able to consume all the cold beers waiting for him when he is released in January. I love this town!

For some time now we have had some, not all, local police involved in various set-ups of foreigners using the underage girl scam and quite often the take has netted some of these lads quite a bit of money. Well, the word must be out on how easy it is to make money by terrorizing some foreigners for now even the NBI stationed at Clark are getting into the act. On 10 Dec a Swiss National staying at the Brass Knob hotel had a visit from some men from the NBI who barged into his room and detained him overnight for being with a minor. In this case the Swiss lad, let me call him John Doe for ease of reference, had met a girl on the street as he exited the Brass Knob to go to a restaurant. This lady approached him and struck up a conversation and asked where he was going. He indicated dinner and she told him that she was hungry too. So, our naive John took her along. After a few days she brought a friend along (sound familiar?) and you know what happened next. The two of them were in his room, nothing was happening but the NBI agents did their thing, took him to Clark, confiscated his cell phone and proceeded to quote various laws that scared the hell out of John and told him that he could end up in jail for many years. He was scared shitless! They kept him overnight but they allowed him to call his brother in Switzerland to ask him to send money via Western Union. The money was not small folks, in fact the amount was so large that he had to lie to Western Union officials to receive such a large amount in order to get around money laundering restrictions. He told them he had a very serious accident and the hospital would not treat him without money up front. It arrived the next morning and he was released. How much you might ask? Hold your breath folks, enough Swiss francs to equal P570,000! John Doe was released but he checked out of the Brass Knob and went to another Hotel where he hid out until his departure four days later, on a Saturday. This free lancer, as described to me, is not all that good looking and in fact has two front teeth that are rotten and discolored. How many times must I write about free lancers working hand in hand with shady law enforcement personnel in uniform and out of uniform. When will ALL Hotels put up warning notices in their establishments - DO NOT PICK UP FREE LANCERS - my goodness folks, we have to do everything we can to warn those visitors to Angeles City that come here to enjoy our great night life. Many read this column and know but there are many that have no idea what to look out for. This John Doe was able to have a friend contact some people that contacted an attorney and this attorney tried to get word to him not to pay anything until legal counsel reached him but it was too late. I know from personal experience that these scoundrels try to work fast and use fear tactics, they are very good at it. John Doe only wanted to get out of town, he would not make a complaint as he feared for his life and who can blame him for that? These people know that and that is why they can operate with impunity.

Last month I reported on the case of John Daigneauld, 70 years old, and also a victim of a police set-up. His attorney has informed me "that John's hearing on December 19 was reset to January 15, 2008 due to the absence of the fiscal. Nevertheless we submitted john's counter-affidavit and the affidavits of his witnesses." At least John is out on bail and not rotting away in the City Jail but this very innocent man must pay a substantial amount of money in legal fees to prove his innocence. I have met John and he is a fine gentleman who is not all that well and for this to happen to him is a damn shame. Our new City Director, Col Gaddi has to do something to stop these scalawags in uniform.

On 8 Dec the "Crazy Horse Saloon" (Previously Magic Moments) opened up for business and there was the usual joyous crowd on hand for the freebies and the festivities. I usually stay away from opening nights as one cannot really get the "feel" for a Club on the first night. It is better to wait a few days or a week then wonder in and see how business is doing. So far everything I hear about the place is positive and that is a good sign. I like the entrance and the set up inside. Plenty of room for the pool table, not like before where the players were a bit squeezed. I did not have time to take any pictures, maybe next month when I have more time. The new guys on board are still working on the restaurant that will occupy the space that used to house the money changer in that area. The only problem is the location which is great except when the traffic backs up during various rush hour periods and you can't get to the place if you are driving. For those of you that are not familiar with the area it is located just before, or just after the checkpoint and believe me, traffic jams in this particular area are one great pain in the ass.

One night last month, a Korean customer walked into Nero's Club and spent P200,000 in two hours. He paid EWR for 171 ladies. Please do not ask me what he did with them, I have no idea, except maybe for a bit of barhopping I guess. Another thought is that he could not make up his mind as to which lady he liked so took them all, another thought is that he was mixed up with the language and thought he was ordering 171 ladies drinks. He now has VIP status at Nero's!

The Christmas season in the Philippines is not all fun and games. The following two items set a bit of a gray cloud over what should have been a joyous holiday season for some folks:

In Porac, a barangay just outside of Angeles City, two Korean nationals were found dead at Go-Yhang Ville in Barangay Manibaug Paralaya. This is an area that the Koreans have established a subdivision catering to Koreans only. Pampanga Police Superintendent Rolly Mendoza, identified the fatalities as Oh Young Kwan, 38, and his wife Lee Hyen Koung of the Manibaug Paralaya village. Investigations revealed that at 7:17 a.m. on Wednesday, the lifeless bodies of Kwan and Koung were found beside their residence. Mendoza said Kwan sustained a bullet wound on his left cheek while Koung was shot in the head. A security guard found the lifeless bodies of the two Koreans lying on the pavement beside their house. Police found the bodies and recovered three empty shells of .45 caliber pistol. The children of the victims, aged 9 and 10 said they saw from their room two men wearing camouflage pants, black jackets and black bonnets stabbing their father. Mendoza said Koung was an educator in a Korean school in Angeles City. The couple, along with their two children, were residing in the village for 10 months now. Police investigators have yet to establish the motive behind the killing of the Korean couple.

Incident two is a bit unsettling, to say the least. On 25 Dec, at 7 PM, in the Santa Maria 2 Subdivision, Angeles City, Hasher Terry Coogan (Arm Pit), was violently attacked by two thugs on scooters who came up behind him and clubbed him with iron pipes. Terry was stone sober at the time and was just leaving his house. He did not see them until he was on the ground. When they grabbed his wallet, he held on until they clubbed him some more. They left him on the ground, bloody and in bad shape as they made their escape. Terry related that they were Filipinos, tan complexion, black hair and brown eyes. Gee, that is a unique description and they should be easy to find – eh, good luck on that score. Terry is recovering now but for sure, his Christmas was not very merry at all.

EVENTS IN JANUARY

LA PASHA - On January 1: a New Year "After Party" ! - And on January 11: 3 year Anniversary of LA PASHA! Plenty of ladies and various champagnes will be available at both these events.

6 Jan - Kokomo's - New Year’s Pool party will be 6 January from noon till 4. It’s open to everyone. There will be 60 plus girls from Voodoo, Lollipop, King of Diamonds, Treasure Island, Tender Touch and Angels. Admission is P1,000 (ladies P500) which includes all you can drink.

The 7th Annual Australia Day Fiesta organized by the Angeles City R.S.L. will be held from Wednesday 23rd January to Sunday, January, 27th 2008. The “Curry Cook-Off Competition” will be held in Fields Avenue, Balibago on Sunday 27th January as part of a celebration of Australia Day.

FUND RAISER FOR “BONES” - ATTN: RSL members, Balibago Golf Club, pool teams, and Expat business owners. We will have a fund raising function at the Ponderosa hotel pool side, Tuesday, January 8 ,2008 starting at 1.30 p.m. until 5.00 p.m. p500.00 entry will include cost of BBQ, limited free local drinks and 5 raffle tickets. Additional raffle tickets available at 3 for 100 peso. This is for ken (bones) seath who is quite ill in hospital and nearly lost a limb due to a blood sugar problem. For sure Ken would not want charity but many of his mates have decided to try and raise a few pesos for him to offset the hospital costs. Even if you do not believe in fund raisers drop in anyway for it is a good excuse for one grand day on the piss with plenty of grub, cold beer and a chance to see old mates and meet new ones. Hell, you might even win a good raffle prize as well.

11 Jan - A very special party at the Cherry's Club to feature their great new look after a bit of renovation. It will start at 7 PM and you can believe that Jim will have some special looks for you from the many ladies that will be on stage. Happy Hour prices, snacks, shows and raffles with special prizes. You don't want to miss this one.

25 Jan - RSL Charity Night Extravaganza at the newly opened Golden Nile, Fields Ave, tickets - P1,000 each

I have always invited any Club owners or managers to pass on their planned events or new promotions so I can pass them on to the readers of this column. So far, only La Pasha (James), the RSL and Mo have taken advantage of this FREE advertising. Mo sent me the following information:

Bobby has rejoined the Kokomo’s group as events director. As such, he’s responsible for our guess’ entertainment as well as coordinating all parties, SOB and other special events. Our newest parties are Sloppy Sundays at KOD. Sloppy takes over the reins and runs a pretty good event. Happy hour prices all night and free food from 8 PM onwards.

Sportsman’s lunch at Voodoo every Sunday. What started out as a bi-weekly event has not become weekly. Local beer and drinks are P50 and each guest gets a free hotdog. We also play ‘throw the dice’ where for every ladies drink, the customer rolls dice with prizes including free drinks, meal discounts, an all you can drink evening and ½ EWRs.

Voodoo, King of Diamonds and Angels now have a ‘Diamond Bell Ring’. For P7,500, the ringer gets; a free EWR, all he can drink the rest of the night, 2 pizzas, a 10% discount on further ladies drinks and EWRS, a t-shirt and bar towel AND a free night in Subic or Kokomo’s Hotel in AC. Mo said he’s considering bringing back his ‘all-you-can-drink’ specials whereby the customer pays for a card that entitles him to drink in All Mo’s places from 12 Noon till 3 AM.

TAPS

This is another hard one to write about. On Christmas Eve Nicolaas (Nico) Krabbendam passed away in his sleep from a heart attack. I have known Nico for quite a few years. He had Foxy's Club in the old Southern Star and then opened the Butterfly Rock just off of Fields Ave. He was a great personality and every time I visited him the Club was packed and he held court at his special table with his mates. He had many friends in this town and he will be missed. He was only 51 years old, way too young to leave us all so early in life. On 28 Dec, at 4 PM his many friends gathered at the Butterfly Rock for a final toast, he will be missed.

Ladies and Gentlemen - I sit at my keyboard today, 31 Jan with a heavy heart.  I had already sent my column to the webmaster and was preparing to celebrate New Years Eve when I was informed of the passing of an old friend, not only to me but to many members of this Expat community.  Bill Pond, a dart player, a pool player and an all around nice guy that loved his children and the community he was a part of.  I do not know the details yet but Bill has not been in the best of health for a long time yet he would still get out and drop by various popular haunts of his, i.e., the Hang-out and chat with his many friends.  I am filled with a heavy grief at the number of old comrades that have left us during this year of 2007.  I had hoped that Nico would be the last for this year and now that horrible creature named "Death" has reached out and taken another from our midst.  I will raise my glass tonight in memory of Bill, Nico, Ron Smith, Andy and so many others, may their spirits rest knowing that they are gone, but not forgotten.  I pray that Mr. Death forgets all about Angeles City in 2008, we need a break!

TOURIST OF THE MONTH

I really got a kick out of meeting Roger Kilka. He made a very strong effort to stop by my stable to meet the Horse. First he sent me a text to find out where I was located and then he set up a time for arrival. When he arrived he sent me another text as I was upstairs working on my column. I went down to the bar and he bought me a drink and related how on previous visits he wanted to meet "the Horse" but was not able to find my stable. I really enjoyed meeting Roger and I was overwhelmed with his friendliness and praise for this column. Roger was born in South Africa with his parents being Indian. His parents were quite lucky as they were scheduled to leave South Africa by boat going to England but they were delayed and missed their reservation and had to leave later. The boat they missed was sunk by a German U-boat. He is now living in London working as a steward at Wembly Stadium. He is 48 years old and during his visits to Angeles City he stays at the Marquis Hotel. I never got around to asking him which Club is his favorite because we talked about so many other things that I just plain forgot.

ANOTHER BEE STING?

A hotel manager sent me this information: "We had a sting "underage girl" thing last week and the guy had a picture of the set up girl (Her "name" is Grace). He has known her for a year and a half and she approached him saying she had a friend that needed money. She brought her to his room and then said she was going shipping and left. Five minutes later the PNP were there and the rest is history." Yes, the rest is history but this popular scam itself is not history. These cops came from Camp Olivas, in plain clothes but they had the proper paperwork and Capt Tan was called for assistance and he verified the paperwork and after making a phone call for advice found that nothing could be done. The "mother" had made a complaint (what else is new) and our victim was hustled off to Camp Olivas where a P200,000 settlement kept him out of jail. The original asking price was P400,000. Later that night the victim was on Fields Ave and he saw this old "friend" of his and when she saw him, her mouth dropped a mile and she took off like a rocket. The problem is that this lady is still around and no doubt looking to score another hit for herself and others in uniform. Her name is Grace and she is not smiling because she has decaying buck teeth and has a pierced nose and she does not work in a bar. You know, before my advice was not to pick up a girl from the street because you can't trust them but now you can't even trust the girl you have known for months, or a year or two. This is the second incident where-in a foreigner has been set up by a girl he knows. Now, one has to be careful whenever a "friend" brings over her friend and then leaves.

Update - Last month I wrote about 70 year old John Daigneault and how he was set up and it is so obvious it is ridiculous. Based on a "complaint" from a mother, one Racquel Mallari and SPO 2 Bernadette Galura from the ACPO Women's desk in the company of one more lady officer plus 3 male officers arrested John on charges of rape only minutes after he returned home from a shopping trip and was changing to go swimming with the two ladies that were waiting in his apartment while he was out shopping. The one lady that he had known for some time is a free lancer that is still plying her trade in the Real Street area goes by the name of "Lovely". The rape charge is ridiculous as John has certified medical reasons why a rape by him would be impossible so that charge should be squashed, but then it could be changed to "molestation". He has changed lawyers and gone with the very effective Attorney Ronaldo P. Duro, who both this Horse and Kokomo's Mo strongly recommend. John is out on bail at this time and attended a hearing on 19 Dec.

HAPPY 1ST ANNIVERSARY LORNA AND JOMEL

It was a year ago when our Orchid Inn beauty Lorna took the big step and married her co-employee, Jomel. Since that time I have have been able to see Lorna every month and she continues to glow with the happiness of married life. Recently, I learned that she and Jomel took a few days off for a bit of a holiday at some romantic location in order to have some time to themselves. Now, naturally, I am wondering if nine months from now we will see a result of that get-a-way. I will be keeping a close eye on Lorna to see if anything develops. It is my sincere pleasure to see such a lovely couple and I am glad that they both continue to work at the Orchid Inn. Happy anniversary guys.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ONE AND ALL

As I mentioned in last month's column, my December was filled up with many appearances as Santa in Manila and here in Angeles City as part of my fund raising activities and would not have the time to get around as much as I would have liked. I did manage to gather up some New Year cheer from a few clubs in the area and take some pictures in which various folks wanted to wish one and all a very happy New Year. It was fun taking these pictures and most folks got in the spirit of it all. As usual there were a few ladies that had the attitude problem but not enough to discourage me. I saw John Bee at the Blue Nile one night and he was having the same problem with a few ladies so I felt better. I thought they did not want to pose because I was ugly, old or smelled bad but since I look better than John I knew that could not be the reason. Some of the reasons I have been given in the past is that "my parents might see the picture" - sure, out there in Samar living in a shack, no internet connection and they might see you. Another reason, "my boyfriend might see it" - sure, the guy that thinks you are home in Samar getting by with all the money he is sending you each month just waiting for his return as well as the other two or three guys that you communicate with that believe the same thing! How bout "I'm shy" - please, this girl that dances half naked every night is shy? I do believe the word "shy" should be banned in the Philippines as it is used for every excuse in the book! So the Horse now presents his pictures taken in desperation to cover his ass for not having enough time to get out and about.

Lets go from left to right here. These five lads were checking out the action at the Dog House show at the Blue Nile and I never quite knew if they agreed to have a picture taken or not. What the hell, one guy was willing and the others were - - sort of willing, I think. In the middle, of course is the big guy John Bee, the bigger guy Mark and the suave Bruce the manager. They allowed me to sit at the reserved table which made me very happy to be in such esteemed company. The last picture is of the lady refused to pose for John and me but I got sneaky and caught her a bit unaware. No offense to any boyfriends of hers that might be reading this column.

Our first picture here shows the happy folks at the Clarkton Hotel. Manager Ingo, Chef Oliver and Attorney Willie are all smiles as they stand next to some of their beautiful waitresses. I kind of put the Clarkton waitresses way up there on my scale of 1 to 10 for the best looking restaurant staff in town. In the middle we have a few of the ladies from the Cold Drop and the number is small for two reasons; one, a pool game was going on and secondly, two or three sitting outside on their butts had attitude problems and did not want to join in. So, charming Theresa did the best she could by rounding up five fellow staff to greet you. You can tell who Theresa is, she is the tall good looking one in blue with the great smile. Then we come to some of the ladies in the Thi-Hi, one of my favorite places to have a friendly drink or even a cup of coffee and even a bit of a massage when my body is bone tired. The ladies there are friendly and Josie is one of the best female managers in town, she always has a smile and is a lot of fun. I would have put owner Derry in this picture but he was sleeping upstairs and sometimes it is better to let old dogs lie.

Our lead off picture is from another of my watering holes up on Perimeter Road, the Hang-Out run by big John and little Mac (Sounds like two fast food restaurants). This is a place where Expats like to meet other Expats without the ear splitting sounds of loud music and hustling Mamasans. It is an outdoor establishment but they also have a bit of entertainment in-doors if you prefer. It is a great place to meet and chat with folks over some cold beer and other delights. The ladies in the middle picture are some really fun lasses from the Cold Drop. You know, I kind of feel bad that I have not dropped into the Cold Drop for a couple of years. I do not have a good reason for my absence except that I am always rushing from place to place and always meant to drop in again but always forgot to do so. You can believe me when I say that this should definitely be a place for any visitor to this town to check out. These ladies are not shy and are VERY attentive to your needs. The night I went in the place was packed and everyone was smiling. We now move on to Shanno's Irish Pub and greeting me was Kevin W. and Dave who were more than happy to help gather up some of their staff for a Happy New Year greeting. You have to see this Pub, it is enormous and rapidly becoming a tourist destination. One of those "we have to have a picture of this place" thing. The only thing that upsets me is that I have never heard anyone singing "Danny Boy" yet or even any old Tenor Irish songs. Maybe I can get Shanno to sing a song or two the next time I drop in. Kevin, how about you?

From left to right we have some of the members of the Rotary Club of Clark Centennial who wanted to pass on their New Year cheer to one and all. They also wanted to thank the many people who went out of their way to support the Bahay Bata Street Children's Center during year 2007. Without that support this Center would not be able to reach out to so many children to give them a decent place to live and obtain the education necessary to allow them to lead productive lives. Next we have Palito and Tess who own "Palito's" on MacArthur Ave across the street from Johnny's Supermarket. I don't think too many people are aware of this place because of its location but it is a rather unique place to visit. They have food, good music and upstairs there are dart boards and a pool table. Palito is a very friendly host and his lovely wife has a charming smile for all customers. Then we have Mark Smith, the man of many talents and a big heart. Mark, recent, suffered a heart attack but he beat the odds and was down only for a few days. He underwent an angioplasty procedure in Manila and came back to Angeles City as strong as ever but knowing that his biggest Christmas present ever was a new lease on life. Mark is shown here with two little ones he loves very much and they in turn return that love. For Mark and the many people he is close to, it is indeed a very Happy New Year.

DOOR GIRLS?

What is happening with the quality of the door ladies in town. In the old days, the policy was to have some of your most attractive ladies standing outside to encourage customers to enter a Club. Lately, I have noticed that some Clubs are allowing some less appealing ladies to stand or sit around and that raises a question within my feeble brain. What is the value of the "door girls", do they have an influence in bringing customers into a Club? I remember where one or two ladies was enough and not an overkill, but now when I pass Misty's, the Blue Nile or Nero's I see a bunch of ladies standing outside and it is an overkill. Some come up and grab you and it is a battle to get by. But, I digress, lets get back to the looks! I took this picture as I was passing one Club on Perimeter Road and believe me when I say I would not even think of entering that particular Club if this one lady represented what was inside. What made it worse is that there was a traffic jam outside and every driver or passenger of cars passing had more than enough time to see this view. Perhaps, one lady, nicely attired, standing outside behind a podium would be much better. Just one old Horse's opinion and I am sure that many will disagree with me.

Part of my New Year's resolution is that I would start visiting the Angeles City Sports and Country Club again and get in my swimming and some Sauna to try and lose a bit of weight and become less of a couch potato. My incentive to get back to a little exercise is that so many people I know have had heart attacks recently. Now, I am coming up on 70 years of age and slowing down and I may croak but if a little exercise might delay that process I am game to give it a try. Why am I talking about all this? Well, because on my 2nd day of renewed vigor at the swimming pool I met Byron Evans from Neath Valley South Wales, England. At first I thought he was from Scotland and I was surprised I could understand what he was saying. Actually, I was admiring his Ford Expedition SUV and we started talking. He lives here with his lovely wife Michelle and two children Jenny (8) and BJ (7) for six months at a time and then the family packs up and returns to England for six months. Ten years ago Bryan was the manager of the Valentines Club. His beautiful wife is a native of Angeles City and Bryan is very proud of her and his kids. While here they live in Hensonville Court and Bryan told me that all the lads from South Wales love to sing and that includes him as well. His son in England married a year ago and his Dad was never able to get him to visit the Philippines. Well, John, you're an unlucky lad but your father told me that the English lady you married is a good looker. So, thanks to my new exercise program, I have made a new friend. I still have a problem though, my past efforts at getting in shape have never gotten past the second day much less a month or two. Oh well, one day at a time just like those AA folks but who can I call for support?

This December I appeared as Santa Claus in my fund raising activities more than ever before. Mrs Horse and I traveled back and forth to SM Malls in Makati, Cubao, and Harrison for two days in each one. Two days at SM Clark Mall, one and a half days at Nepo Mall in AC, one full day at Brightwoods School in Pandan, AC and one appearance in Brightwoods school in San Fernando, one afternoon for the Bahay Bata Street Children, and one brief appearance at the Swagman Hotel. These appearances helped in raising money and groceries for our annual charity project but our heartfelt thanks must go out to the many people who made individual monetary, clothing and grocery donations that helped us to reach out to more poor families and patients in the hospitals. Our sincere thanks go to: Maso Garret (sent a check that was a great help), Damien Prince, Tony Powers, Ray Lambardi, Cliff Wilsey, Rick (Rick's Cafe), Ken Nielsen, Mkke Gaston, Chris Walshe, Fred Brunton, Dave Marr, Colin Miller (contributed English pounds that had one great exchange rate), Dr. Tey, Roy Garbutt (sent boxes of clothes and toys from Australia) and lastly all the great folks from the Easy Rider Cafe led by Rhino and Ratso who contributed rice and canned goods that we put to good use. All in all, once again we were able to reach out to a lot of poor families that would normally be overlooked at Christmas time and our project gets bigger each year because of folks mentioned here, may each of you have a very happy New Year and stay healthy, happy and wise in 2008.

I WOULD IF I COULD

"OK ladies, the Horse is here to play "Doctor" - I am on a personal campaign to make ladies aware of the dangers of breast cancer" - that is my new line and these were my first two patients. After careful observation I am happy to report that both Minda (left) and Marie passed with flying colors. Both ladies are from Samar and are 20 (Minda) and 21 years of age. At this time neither one has children or boyfriends and they are pretty flexible with age requirements for men, even I was acceptable. Of course they like shopping, singing and dancing along with a few indoor sports. You can meet them at the Matrix Brawn on Perimeter Road. This is a Club that I should visit more often as I am guilty of not stopping by for over a year. When I walked in I found it to be packed with lots of customers and plenty of happy ladies anxious to make everyone happy for the New Year. You will be pleased to know that I have certified both ladies pictured here as being quite healthy so pop on over to Matrix Brawn and check out Minda and Marie.

From left to right - "Look Dave, I don't care how good a pool player you are, get out! "Hi, my name is Claire and my Mom Irene (Subdelicious) and I want to say Happy New Year to all our friends and customers". And last but not least, as soon as Dennis Mitchell wakes up I am sure he will wish everyone a Happy New Year.

I do believe I will get through this month. It is 28 Dec today and on Sunday, the 30th, the Mrs and I with the help of Guy Hilberto, our guide and government liaison officer for Aetas in this area will trek up to a village and distribute the clothes, candy and food packages that were part of our collection. We were able to put together 85 food packages for this mission. That will complete our December and what a wonderful December it has been. The weather has cooperated, everyone has been so nice to each other and the Christmas spirit has certainly been evident. I don't know how things will go financially in 2008 with the way the peso is going, we retirees can only hope that the currency stabilizes real soon. I am hoping to make a trip back to the States after not doing so for two years. I would still like to see my old neighborhood in New York again and see some of the nieces and nephews that are all grown up and have their own children. My sister, who is still working in Jamaica Hospital, Woodside, had five rug-rats and I have not seen them in years. The one advantage is that I have saved a lot of money on presents over the years. Don't forget the 26 Jan RSL Dart Tournament to be held at my stable. We need a lot of players to offset the large contingent coming down from Subic. Remember one thing now, be very nice to Horses or I will report you to PETA!