737 Jobs [Archive] - PPRuNe Forums

phnompenhkid

21st Jan 2003, 04:22

They pay an allowance whether we rent or buy. I'm not gfree to give all conditions, but it's a little less than some, and a lot more than most.
11 ex An drivers and a couple of locals, previously Royal Air Cambodge. 3 ex AN engineers so far.
This place is booming. There's huge growth in the economy, great restaurants, and even a ready supply of blonde backpackers at teh Foreign Correspondents'Club.
Six of us ate out last night, more than we should have eaten, and much more than we should have drunk, and the bill was US$5 each. Great.

B772

22nd Jan 2003, 02:46

I do not want to dampen your enthusiasm phnompenhkid but I suggest you do not make any long term decisions just yet.

I suggest you talk to the Aust Consulate Office in Phnom Penh before you even think of buying a house in Cambodia, a purchase could end up being either the best or worst investment decision in your life.

How sure are you Meekong will survive or even grow to the size you suggest. Their record is not very encouraging. They tend to exaggerate to say the least.

Did your first aircraft arrive on time as planned and when is the second one due.

VneII

22nd Jan 2003, 04:30

Plastic Fantastic,
you said they need F/O's too. Do you know if you have to have time on type or could you get the job on the condition you complete an endorsement?

any info in regards to requirements would be great.

Thanks, VneII

phnompenhkid

25th Jan 2003, 05:48

Well the aircraft has lobbed! It's called City of Phnom Penh, but the pilots reckon they might name it Kermit the Frog - the colour is tree frog green. Thi pi$$ up at the Australian consuloate is on this afternoon, and we've all had to buy suits for the occasion.
KaptinM says on another thread that he'll give it 12 months. We're all surprised he's giving it more than a month since the pilots are mostly former AN!
He knows everybody and everything it seems. Says he knows one of the owners, but even we don't know ANY of the owners. What sort of a charlie is he?? Damned rich I'd say!
The licences should be issued within a few days and revenue ops start within a week. Hope KapM doesn't point the bone at us.
I'm still buying the house on the river too.
B772, you've obviously had some experience in Cambodia, so could you please elaborate, or better still, if you can make it to the pi$$ up, you can give us the tips personally.

Capt. Casual

26th Jan 2003, 05:25

Just wondering what the requirements for F/O positions are? Any further info on gaining employment with this new company would be good.

Thanks.

Sheep Guts

26th Jan 2003, 13:19

Good Luck you guys hope it works out,
I am asking the same question as VneII . If there are 737 F/O slots are they willing to employ guys with minimal or no time on type and bare Rating. I dont know where Ill get mine ,but I work it out if needed.

Also guys are there any Twin Otters getting around. Havent been able to track an Otter Job in S.E. Asia only Pacific Rim and Oz.

Got 4000TT,2400 multi com,1700 Multi Turbine Command,
OZATPL,USATP,NZATPL

Regards
Sheep

skyjockey

28th Jan 2003, 20:11

do they accept 737 rating on US ATP

ilovelonghaul

29th Jan 2003, 00:44

Just a quick heads up here guys. CAL is interviewing and need a lot of crew. Great conditions etc. I enjoy it here very much and they look after you very well.

ALl the best

B772

30th Jan 2003, 07:46

My comments to you phnompenhkid are based on 13 odd years experience in the area north of Aust. Both Kaptim M and myself are doing you a favour in replying so you do not have too much in the way of expectations and do not get your fingers burnt.

Your choice of user name and posting content suggest you are youthful and maybe vulnerable if you have been ex AN and unemployed for some time.

I guess you now know the risks of living and working in a foreign country such as Cambodia. You may need your own AK47 and hand grenades.

You will have a better idea of the future for Mekong and your own prospects when you see the passenger loads and yield over the coming weeks.

I hope it all works out for everybody involved.

phnompenhkid

31st Jan 2003, 12:46

Why thank you B772. Youthful yes, starry eyed, NO. Rocket Rod was almost a rocket scientist, nuclear physicist I think, and look what happened to the last two airlines he ran! I see it as an adventure, and not much else. It would be nice if it survived because I really enjoy it here. As I said in my initial post, the beer is sweet and the ladies pretty, that is if you have an east west bent. I particularly like the attitude the fa's have toward pilots. Nothing like those rags back in Oz.
Looks like a pleasant place to spend a few years, and living in the Intercontinental can't be all bad until the house on the river is up and running.
The events of the last couple of days were exciting. Machine gun fire and torched buildings don't happen every day back home; well schools are torched fairly regularly by kids who don't want to go to school the next day, but the machine guns, well they're a different matter,
It's difficult to believe some Thai film star could have triggered such events with the statement that was allegedly made. That's the third world mentality. They go off like a fire cracker when challenged.
Nice talking to you and receiving your advice.

barleyhi

6th Feb 2003, 22:05

Cambodia's national carrier replaced

Asia's newest airline is about to take delivery of its first plane.

Mekong Airlines is jointly owned by Cambodian, Australian and US interests and plans to soon expand beyond local flights to international flights as far afield as Melbourne.

Karon Snowdon reports it replaces Cambodia's national carrier which collapsed a year ago:

"Mekong Airlines initially plans 23 flights a week to the popular tourist destination of Ankor Wat and expects to quickly add planes and flights to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong and eventually Sydney and Melbourne. Its 51 per cent owned by private Cambodian interests, 29 per cent US and 20 per cent Australian all of whom remain anonymous. Chief Executive Denziel Sprague says while most pilots and maintenance personel are Australians, Cambodians will take their places over time: 'There's a real excitement in Cambodia that at last they have another airline and I think its a matter of pride for Cambodia to have an ailrine representing themselves here.'"

24/01/2003 03:21:49 | ABC Radio

Sheep Guts

6th Feb 2003, 22:32

772,
Your advice is warranted, but Id say Cambodia would be no different than PNG, or other similair Struggling Nations with regards to security etc. I myself work in a country that has the highest murder rate in the world, that out ranks countries like South Africa and the U.S.. I wont disclose where I am but, one clue, It is a Major if not the most popular U.S. getaway destination during Winter. Sounds impossible but its true.

Generally I would agree when working in these countries as 772 has said, dont over invest, make sure you use offshore banking or ensure you can transfer your foreign currency out at a drop of hat. With the way the world is going at the moment. Banks and alike are starting to look shaky in alot of these nations. Especially with impending war, take care with your money people.
Argentina for example is in Dire Straits and you cant get your Money from the Banks. Even large Banks in Beunous Airies like HSBC have closed causing mass revolt by the locals.

Despite all that, Id luv to atleast send a resume. Is there a website guys I can use?

Regards
Sheep

phnompenhkid

7th Feb 2003, 10:09

Sheepie, I don't want to dissuade you, but they are Qeed up. Those who saw the first post on this thread and bolted in got a start, and most of the FOs are in fact Captains waiting for a hole to crawl into (aren't we all waiting for that?)
I think they'll employ some local Cambodians from Royal Air Cambodge as well, so there will be a long list. The second aircraft is on the drawing board, and business is looking good so far. Singapore and KL are on line as is the only Cambodian port outside PP. Loads are increasing slowly.
Thanks for the advice on offshore banking etc. We new guys to this expat thing can do with all the help we can get to keep the loot from the clutches of Mr Carmody. Increasingly more difficult though - more than 51 days in Oz, and you have to contribute to the losers who refuse to work and want to be carried for their entire lives.
I'll get my finances in order, and the house on the river has reached plans stage. I know there are better waterfronts in the world than the Tonle Sap River, but it's all we've got.
KaptinM, I've finally met the principal financier/partner. Decent bloke. I mentioned your name but it drew a blank stare. Perhaps it's a lesser investor you know. I'll seek him out.

B772

22nd Mar 2003, 09:10

Any news from any Mekong Airlines drivers on how things are going.

One newspaper report said Mekong were planning a service to HKG from PNH but I have not seen them as yet.

Hope they can hang on a bit longer.

phnompenhkid

28th Mar 2003, 13:15

B772,
My fuirst time here for weeks, but yes, the HKG service has started, and the loads are good. I flew it last week, and about 80% average,which is not all bad on a 104 seat aircraft. Other routes' loads are picking up nicely, and a full house to/from Siem Reap in the north is not unusual.
It's looking good here. The beer's still sweet and the ladies are still pretty.
I reckon we have about the best looking bunch of FAs anywhere, including the local version of Miss World. She is just magnificent.
Beautiful FAs don't keep an airline in business though, sofull flights are what we need. The publicity machine has kicked in well and hopefully the loads will increase even fjurther.
Word is that we should ghave another aircraft within acouple of months. Heard that AN had a billion bucks in the bank a week before it fell over too, and that they'd be flying 747-400s around the globe within a year, so I'm not starry eyed about it.
We just all hope it keeps on as it is and improved, and indications are that it will. Thanks for the interest.
I just referred to the old post "AN 737 Drivers etc.", and noted that the old warhorse Kap M said that the Khmer pilots, one in particular, had more time flying around Asia (for that read 'experience') than the rest of us put together. That may be so, but let me say that flying is flying. You take off somewhere and land somewhere! Simple as that.
We've all heard the line an instructor who has 3000 hours actually has 5 hours 600 times over. Well all flying is about the same, but maybe airline flying would be a 100 hours 30 times over per 3000 hours.

I heard one of the FOs say a few days back after a near confrontation with an 89er, on the tarmac elsewhere, that these pricks have been trying to con the rest of us saying that 'we'd (we being those who used their heads 14 years ago) never cut it anywhere other than Australia'. Well, for the record, be advised that it's no different than domestic flying in Australia. A little more paperwork maybe, but diverting around a storm is the same, computer plans are the same, controllers are the same with accent variations, instrument approaches are the same, etc., and I could go on forever. There is one MAJOR difference though to satisfy the critics - PAPIs and VASIs, and it takes about 30 seconds to get the drift on that, so international flying is extremely difficult. You don't need to drag in the mystique, smoke and mirrors act to justify your position - or perhaps some do.
There are many drama queens in this industry - you know the types who 'almost' have some major failure on every sector. The good Kap seems to be amongst them.

amos2

28th Mar 2003, 16:21

Hmmm!...do I detect some anger and bitterness here?
Don't know much about the "kid" but sense he has some problems. Time to forget the past and get a life methinks! ;)

Truth Seekers Int'nl

28th Mar 2003, 18:28

that's my boy AMOS - '89 all forgiven !

phnompenhkid

29th Mar 2003, 15:47

No bitterness here Amos, just a well adjusted young fella making his way in life, but it is good to hear that YOU have put 89 behind you after all those negative posts.
One less bitching and whining about a non-event a long time ago.

I love it here, and even if this nice little airline didn't survive, I think I'd stay. The beer is still sweet, and the ladies are still nice (if you have the east-west bent, that is, as I unashamedly do!).

amos2

29th Mar 2003, 19:30

Well, I'm pleased to hear that Kid...best of luck to you. ;)

Dexter

10th Apr 2003, 10:11

Hiya their all and too you phompemboy I enjoy readig sum of the stuff you writs. an hows it all goen? Are any moor jobs going to likly cum up soon? How is yore hose going?

Kaptin M

11th Apr 2003, 09:38

Dexter, don`t believe everything that you read here, phnompenhkid`s spinning all of you a story with his
I'll get my finances in order, and the house on the river has reached plans stage. I know there are better waterfronts in the world than the Tonle Sap River, but it's all we've got.
....unless he has adopted Cambodian citizenship. Land ownership for personal properties, is not available to foreigners in Cambodia

Like a kid who`s just discovered his "willy", phnompenkid has found himself away from home, and out in a big, new world, where - going by his epistles - he feels that he is "King of the Road", after having a little bit of regional flying in S.E. Asia
Well, for the record, be advised that it's no different than domestic flying in Australia. A little more paperwork maybe, but diverting around a storm is the same, computer plans are the same, controllers are the same with accent variations, instrument approaches are the same, etc., and I could go on forever.
and obviously a superior being, That's the third world mentality..

Did you tell the ex-Ansett F/A`s that you held them in such high regard, ppkid?
I particularly like the attitude the fa's have toward pilots. Nothing like those rags back in Oz.
Charming chap!!! Undoubtedly they held him in high regard as well!! :p

Z Force

11th Apr 2003, 10:03

Kaptin M, I'm sorry but he is right about the Ansett F/A's. Disrespectful lot.

phnompenhkid

11th Apr 2003, 12:25

Good ole Kaptin M. Can't resist when he's poked in the ribs.

For your info KM, there are numerous ways of owning property in a country where property ownership is not normally extended to non nationals. A simple one is for a law firm (or trusted individual, but that's not a path I'd choose) to own the property, me to take a mortgage over it, upgrade it with annual revaluations, and have a contract between the parties so that the firm can't trade, sell, borrow against etc. Now I'm sure I'm about to get some more advice about this matter, and I didn't realize that you were also a solicitor. Sorry, international solicitor, or is that a specialist in international property law.

As for just discovering his willy, not likely. I've been travelling the world for thirty years at my own expense, i.e., not crewing and observing the wildlife is a favourite pastime.

International flying. No super human being here, nor does one have to be to undertake it. I knew you'd be the one to try to make more of it than there actually is, and a previous post says just that. Pretty straightforward, and in fact no different than domestic. Sorry, there's a gen dec required!! Bit more water than Lake Eyre, but essentially the same. As I said, flying is flying. Take off somewhere, land somewhere.

Right on Dexter. Extremely disrespectful, even though I did have some good friends who were, and are, FAs. They don't support the rude, disrespectful ones either. It's no big deal - treat people the way you would like to be treated, and mostly it's reciprocated.

Now I don't have sufficient time to engage you right now, so it over and out till your next foray into making a fool of yourself.

Kaptin M

11th Apr 2003, 13:41

...and I didn't realize that you were also a solicitor. Sorry, international solicitor, or is that a specialist in international property law.
Hmmm, I have never made any such claim, ppk - you appear to be one who is too quick to jump to conclusions. Perhaps that was the reason for the handle you chose....kids generally are that way inclined. :D

International flying...... I knew you'd be the one to try to make more of it than there actually is,
Your VERY limited regional experience to a few ports in S.E. Asia hardly qualify you to pass comment on international flying, ppk. Possibly after you have operated into Europe, the States, Africa, etc, and little farther afield than Phnom Penh - China - Hong Kong, you MIGHT hold some credibility.
A lot more GROWING UP to do yet, kid. :D

So how about a reply to Dexter? (And other interested parties), instead of merely crooning about YOUR superior abilities. Are you willing to divulge whether any up and coming jobs are going to be made available to NON-scabs?

Loved your second last sentence,It's no big deal - treat people the way you would like to be treated, and mostly it's reciprocated.
in light of your previous all-encompassing"pearls of wisdom", :rolleyes: That's the third world mentality. They go off like a fire cracker when challenged.

phnompenhkid

12th Apr 2003, 16:03

KM, you have a rare ability to miss the point. ALL flying is the same - take off somewhere and land somewhere. Operating to a few regional ports in SE Asia is no different from operating to a lot of ports in Asia, America or Europe. Got it this time around. I recall it being the same as international flying in C404s many years ago - take off somewhere and land somewhere. Maybe I have to say it again for those incapable of absorbing it.

I guess you operate to MANY ports internationally, and that qualifies you as a REAL international pilot. I make no pretences - I'm a pilot, and I don't differentiate between domestic and international. I can do each. I suppose it adds to the mystique if youcan tell people at a party that you're an international pilot. What happens when they ask 'Is that a regional international pilot, or a REAL international pilot?' I suppose you answer that you're a REAL international pilot. It's a little like being asked if you fly freight or passengers, the questioner thinking that pax flying is a higher class of flying. I don't believe it is; give me a freight job anytime.

Your query Dexter - maybe there will be more jobs with expansion and that's planned. I don't recall you asking if there would be jobs for non scabs though to which the kap alludes. Your petty prejudices again KM.

Whilst on the matter of scabs KM, you wanted to be one, but were rejected or have you conveniently forgotten that. I know, I know, you withdrew your application without intimidation or coercion from anyone - bull$hit. Perhaps it's time to remind the readership once again. There were none so committed to the cause as those who applied and were rejected, and there were a number of those along with yourself.

If you want more home truths, let me know, because there is nothing much worse than somebody who wanted to let the cause down and because he was rejected became a pillar of support for the rebellion. Very sad.

You've conveniently ignored the property in PP issue. There are ways to circumvent the system, and I've done it. Anybody can, so if you too would like a Tonle Sap waterfront, I can put you onto an American solicitor who can arrange all for you. There are many worse places in the world to be.

No I don't believe you did claim that you were a specialist in international property law, but you were commenting as though you were, when you have little or no knowledge of the real situation.

Let the games begin.

permFO

12th Apr 2003, 20:09

Hey PPK you sound like the bloke I used to fly with who had an 'Asian' edition of the special info book. How is the cat population of smalltown Victoria?

Kaptin M

12th Apr 2003, 21:14

Time for YOU to put your {USD's) money where your mouth is, kid!!
Get a sworn Statutory Declaration to support your accusation of,
"Whilst on the matter of scabs KM, you wanted to be one, but were rejected or have you conveniently forgotten that. I know, I know, you withdrew your application without intimidation or coercion from anyone - bull$hit.", scan it, and when you've done that PM me, and I'll give you an address to send it to.

I'll give you 14 days, or whatever reasonable period YOU are willing to publically nominate here.

So what will it be? Public slander? Or a falsely sworn Stat Dec? I'm sure with your worldly knowledge, you are fully aware of the consequences of each! :D
Let's see how big your balls are.

As for the simplistic,ALL flying is the same - take off somewhere and land somewhere.
you really DO show your total ignorance of international flying in areas such as overflight clearances, redispatch planning, and other subtleties that would be too much to expect your childlike, simplistic mind to take on board.

There are ways to circumvent the system, and I've done it.
We ALREADY knew that!!
As the adage goes, "a leopard never changes its spots."

I'm waiting for that Stat Dec, kid.

phnompenhkid

13th Apr 2003, 14:10

KM, You know as well as I do that is now not possible. All records of that nature are either destroyed or in the possession of the administrator. Be assured the evidence is solid, but not now available.

As for circumventing the system, I'm merely pointing out that it is accessible to anyone, and I can't imagine how you know of any other incident where I've circumvented the system.

Oh, you think that of 89! Is that it? No circumvention there. Jobs advertised; nobody employed in those jobs, all having resigned, so I applied just as you did, and I was ACCEPTED.

Now I'm sure you'll say that they would have taken just anybody, but that wasn't true. Wine salesmen, bland characters, and many others were also rejected early in hostilities.

Now back onto the issue of REALinternational pilots versus international pilots versus domestic pilots. Once again you miss the point. I thought one of average intelligence may have deduced that if I thought the PAPI issue was about the most difficult item to transition, then overfly clearances etc would rate behind that in importance. You may work for an organization where the pilots have to chase up that sort of info, but I don't. It's done by the flight planning contractors, and if requested, we merely read out a number. That is difficult!!

Perhaps I'm never going to cut it as a REAL international pilot because I don't think things such as those are major issues, but just another small part of doing the job. Maybe it's because my watch isn't big enough, or my dick not small enough. Who knows???

Incidentally, can you give me a few tips on the use of highlighting, cutting and pasting quotes etc. I'd like to make my posts stand out a little more just as you do.

Kaptin M

13th Apr 2003, 15:36

" Be assured the evidence is solid.". In that case present it in the form of a sworn statement, witnessed by a Commissioner for declarations, or a Justice of the Peace.
Alternatively, contact the person who was Brisbane RFM at that time - "The rat with the gold tooth", as one of your ilk nick-named him prior to going to Hong Kong with Transcorp - or his secretary, and have them sign a Stat Dec confirming what you have said.

What I am about to say to you, phnompenhkid, is cause for YOU to take legal action against ME:
the accusations you have made against me, namely, Whilst on the matter of scabs KM, you wanted to be one, but were rejected or have you conveniently forgotten that. I know, I know, you withdrew your application without intimidation or coercion from anyone - bull$hit.", are entirely false, and without substance.
You, "sir" are a LIAR
So which is it to be? A sworn statement from YOU?
A Stat Dec from TRWTGT or his blonde secretary (or both)?
Or YOU taking legal action against me for calling you a LIAR...oh, I said it again!!

Your persona has lost ALL credibilty in ALL areas, unless you are now willing to follow up one of the preceding choices.

Wizofoz

13th Apr 2003, 16:02

You know Kap, you have written at least six things about me on these forum, based on supposition, that were totally in error.

You have also printed "Facts" that were totally wrong and, when this was pointed out to you, just blustered and name called (It's a FACT!! My accountant TOLD ME!!). In that particular exchange, you did, after yelling and screaming, work out that you didn't know the difference between a Singapore dollar and an Aussie one, and ammended you figures from outrageous back to simply grossly in error.

Now you want to be believed beyond doubt about facts from that year. For years you gave the impression that only the lowest scum would have even CONSIDERED re-applying, and that anyone who did was only giving into GREED!!! Is that why you did just that? You admit you applied? What was your motivation? Are you the only one who ACTUALLY "did it for my family" while ALL the others were scum who gave in to GREED!!!

Now you claim to have withdrawn your application. Fine, wether you did or not, you can't be a little pregnant. You broke the AFAP directive and deserve your place along all the others. I just think it was a little wimpy to make the decision, make the bold move, then bottle out and put your family through the tough times you have related (I take it they supported you re-applying?).

You claim to have a wittiness. Well, get HIM to do the stat dec thingy above.

Unfortunately your penchant for seeing "FACTS!!!" only as they suit you means YOUR credibility is not sufficient to be taken at face value.

permFO

13th Apr 2003, 20:27

PPK you seem to have hit a raw nerve with the Kaptin. My only question to the Kaptin is how can anyone with a pseudonym be slandered?

phnompenhkid

14th Apr 2003, 08:55

WizofOz,

I agree with your post - a little pregnant??

The poor old Kap. He runs off at the mouth a little or a lot. Facts don't figure highly in his thinking or posts, but there's never an apology when he frequently gets it wrong.

I suppose his attitude can be summed up quite simply. It was OK for him to apply; it was OK for him to take another's job in another country; it's OK for him to earn bulk US $$, but if anybody else does, particularly somebody who wears the VC EQUIVALENT for commonsense, then it's on. They're a fu$%#&g SCAB.

Like I said Kap, there were none so strong as those who applied and were rejected, and among those were wine salesmen, bland characters, some ladies, and numerous others.

permFO makes a good point - how can a nom de plume be slandered, defamed etc? I may have you confused with somebody else!! Perhaps someone with a modicum of intelligence, but reading your posts, that would be difficult.

As for the stat dec thing, it's not worth much these days. Twenty years ago, the penalty for making a false declaration was up to 7 years hard labour; now it's a max $200 fine.

permFO, Thanks for the corespondence. The cat population in smalltown is greater than it was three months ago when I was in residence, but on my infrequent trips back, I manage to reduce it by a couple each time. I'll be in touch soon.

Kaptin M

14th Apr 2003, 10:26

permFO, you ask whether legal action pertaining to alleged slander can be actioned from posts on the Internet. I would suggest you contact Woomera, or Danny aka Capt PPRuNe (J.D.Fyne) and ask them.

My identity is no secret - I have allowed my photos, along with those of my wife and child to be displayed on the PPRuNe website. I have been named on several occasions, and was the recipient of abuse (by name), by one of similar ilk to phnompenhkid. Similarly my wife was also - in the same post - subjected to abusive and racist comments, that post having been filed for possible future action.
Likewise, ppkid has overtly referred to other pilots, apparently thinking it clever, when he posted;
"Like I said Kap, there were none so strong as those who applied and were rejected, and among those were wine salesmen, bland characters, some ladies, and numerous others."
Keep goin' kid, the hole gets deeper.

One needs only to read phnompenhkid's posts to uncover his inconsistencies and untruths, his latest example being,As for the stat dec thing, it's not worth much these days. Twenty years ago, the penalty for making a false declaration was up to 7 years hard labour; now it's a max $200 fine.
The TRUTH is a deponent who has been found to have been untruthful in making a sworn declaration (as is the case with a Stat Dec), may be charged under the Criminal Code and be liable to penalties including imprisonment - even today.

I doubt that phnompenhkid can even lie straight in bed!

And so hence his attempt to squirm out of backing up his claim ofBe assured the evidence is solid
I have nominated 2 people who are still alive today, and who would be in a position to submit a Stat Dec, if his allegation were not LIES.
Likewise, phnompenhkid has told all that "..the evidence is solid" (that my application to re-join Ansett was rejected, and/or that I withdrew it due to "intimidation or coercion")Whilst on the matter of scabs KM, you wanted to be one, but were rejected or have you conveniently forgotten that. I know, I know, you withdrew your application without intimidation or coercion from anyone - bull$hit.",

So NOW you are being told to PROVE your allegations, phnompenhkid, by way of the following:
(i) Statutory Declaration(s) by the either or both of the parties I have suggested (or by ANYONE of your choosing);
(ii) or by YOURSELF;
(iii) or withdraw them along with an apology to me.

A "raw nerve", PFO?
No. Just ANOTHER opportunity to expose the character of scabs of the ilk of phnompenhkid! :ok:

BAE146

14th Apr 2003, 10:42

Wisofoz and the kid seem to have Kap M playing off the back foot.

Is this a case of "what goes around comes around" ?

Whilst we are talking legalities. The fact that Kaptin M applied for his job back at Ansett does NOT make him a scab. Had his application been successful then he would have been able to rightfuly claim that title.

The Enema Bandit

14th Apr 2003, 12:05

This thread's more dramatic and scandalous than watching "Bold and the Beautiful" each arvo!

phnompenhkid

14th Apr 2003, 16:12

Don't you just love KM's posts. Highlighting, capitals, colours, quotes between lines, repetition etc. Very impresive if a little tiresome.

Now back to the matter of stat decs. I swore one recently, and the police officer informed me that the penalty for making a false declaration was a $200 fine. I don't have a copy of the criminal code, so I can't give any further infrmation, but I'm sure Kaptin M can. Perhaps he's also a lawyer?

It was for not voting KM. Now there's another reason to attack me. I didn't exercise my democratic right to vote. That has to be worth a dozen or more posts and a few episodes of name calling.

The fact is, and those who come to this site know it, that if a post '89 pilot built a rocket of discarded 200 litre drums, and piloted it to the moon and back, Kaptin M would see it as a fraud. He is a bitter, ill adjusted character.

BAE146, No, not a $cab, but perhaps a 'festering sore' which was one of the pathetic infantile expressions they used on others with whom they didn't agree for some other petty reason.

Wizofoz

14th Apr 2003, 21:02

From Alex Pattersons web site (often quoted as the definative opinion of the dispute (by ONE SIDE of the argument!!))

For inclusion on the scablist a pilot must have either:

Never resigned from their respective Dispute airline
or

Joined their respective Dispute airline between the dates of 24th August 1989 and 7th March 1990
or

been privately negotiating with,or applied to , any airline involved in the Dispute between the dates of 24th of August 1989 and 7th March 1990
or

operated a jet transport aircraft on charter to any airline involved in the Dispute between the dates of 24th of August 1989 and 7th March 1990

So it seems that the Kap belong there after all...

LooseConnection

14th Apr 2003, 22:18

Enjoying the slanging match in this thread guys, just one question PPK hows the "Great MEKONG Show" going now that it's got a dose of SE Asian SARS.

BS aside it will take 6 mths + for the damage to Asian Carriers to subside by that time many of you may well be out of a job and back on the street.

Hope you have you river front pad paid for PPK you'll need it!

:ouch: :ouch: :ouch: :ouch:

mainwheel

15th Apr 2003, 03:04

You could make a mint by consulting to major airline carriers about your crystal ball.
It's a multi billion dollar industry and you would be invaluable.
Run an ad!!!
GO PPK!!!

phnompenhkid

15th Apr 2003, 09:24

Loosey,

It may interest you to know that our best loads are on the Hong Kong route!! As for being out of a job, it's not a great concern to me. I indicated some time ago that I would like to stay, and probably will, or at worst, commute from here. I have a nice young lady here, and the future is looking good.

Yes, the riverfront pad is fully funded, and work has started. It's going to be nice - traditional architecture, Cambodian/Thai style, and not unlike the Jim Thompson house in Bangkok. Mostly teak construction, and elevated to pick up the breezes and of course the views of the Tonle Sap out the back. You'd love it, and you're more than welcome to stay. I'll always have a few Angkors on ice just to see if I can cool you guys down a little, but my fear is that there will never be enough ice!

If you're not familiar with Jim Thompson, he's the guy who introduced Thai silk to the world. He went to Thailand during WWII as a young lieutenant, and saw an opportunity there, returned after the war and went for it. He disappeared in the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia and his disappearance has remained a mystery to this day. His house remains as he left it, donated by his nephew who was the beneficiary of his will, to an organization that must retain it as it was when he left for the weekend. It is well worth visit, if not for the architecture itself, then the priceless collection of antiques, principally Cambodian. His collection was mainly Thai until he had a dispute with the Thai government over retaning local antiques.

Yes Wiz, I felt that KM should be on the list, but then it's a minor point. Perhaps BAE146 should refer the the Patterson website - the definitive analysis! If KM feels that he doesn't belong, then it's of no consequence to me. There are many others who were in negotiations who will never admit it.

Really, what is the significance of a petty list compiled by a character who said early in the course of events 'I can't tell you what we're going to do, but it'll f$#k them!' Well, resigning really did that, but he didn't specify who the 'them' were.

He also tole me by email a couple of years ago that we (the pilot group, including the so called 89ers) 'put our faith in people (AFAP) who weren't up to the task.'

The reason the list is insignificant is that airlines that we were told would never employ $cabs, are doing so, and are happy to do so. A couple haven't and won't, but only a couple. Once again, insignificant.

Loose Connection Aviation Consultants - nice ring to it!!

VneII

21st Apr 2003, 17:01

Well, whilst I am thoroughly enjoying the too and froe I would like to take the post back to it's beginnings (at the risk of having my head biten off :) )

Is there a web site (yes I've looked) where you cantact and apply, could you get a start without time on type in an arrangement similar to VB ie have an interview go get an endorsement etc. Any information on requirements, recruiting etc would be much appreciated.

Cheers, VneII

BAE146

22nd Apr 2003, 12:17

Kap, pray tell what has happened to your spelling ? You and Dexter must have been on the Asahi together last night.

Kaptin M

22nd Apr 2003, 13:35

You mean this, 146?
"can u plse post the mane of the 3 owners an a adress in camboda to send me aplicaton too. thanx in advants."

For whatever reason, only the C&P (of Dexter's earlier request) appeared, without my comment below. (Edit Haha, worked out why - all to do with using/not using Word.)

C'mon ppkid, you have really avoided the 3 or 4 requests you've had from pilots who are probably hard up for work, and are pretty envious of your new lifestyle.

"Is there a web site (yes I've looked) where you cantact and apply".

There's a good chappy

phnompenhkid

22nd Apr 2003, 16:26

You have my apology - those who asked. Website? I don't know. I'm not looking for a job with Mekong as I already have one.

Would they employ without an endorsement; probably not. Bare endorsement; I don't know.

However for those who would like to, try writing to the Chief Pilot, Mekong Airlines, Hong Kong Centre, SotheAros Blvd, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Best of Luck.

the wizard of auz

22nd Apr 2003, 17:44

Just wondering, I had the good fortune to plan and fly a Cessna 172 from Jandakot (Western Australia) to Manila (Philippines) Via East timor, west timor,Flores Islands and Sulawasi. During this little juant I had to organise my own Visas, security clearances, airways clearances and permisions, fuel (Alot harder than you would believe unless you have been there), ect. I did it all VFR and with some fairly dodgy maps and nav aids, sorted all my own Int flight plans and all that other stuff (nope, never used any agents at all, and proved it can be done) as well as actually hand flying the whole trip........................ Does that make me a REAL International pilot?. Or are there other qualifiers?.
Bloody "89" is like that black mould in the bathroom....... It just wont go away.
I really wish I had a job where it was all done for ya and all ya have to do is take off rely on the auto pilot, FMC and all them other gizzmos and then land with few radio calls here and there.... then get the same $$$ that you REAL international pilots get. must be hard yakka.
well, I guess I'll just stick to my cowboy job. I think all that hard button pushing would be beyond me. ;)

phnompenhkid

23rd Apr 2003, 13:02

Dr Phil,

I know it's not worth the time spent here, but you must understand that Kaptin M has been calling others scabs for years on these forums, or is that fora?

Under the 'Definitive History of the Pilots' Dispute of 1989' the author defines a scab. Briefly, he includes those who were in negotiations with the companies prior to the AFAP giving the all clear to return to whatever crumbs were left. Incidentally, there were none.

Now Kaptin M admits having applied to Ansett prior to that date. What happened next is unclear; not to me, but to him it appears.

Whatever the circumstances of his withdrawal/rejection, he applied and fits the criteria to be named amongst those whom he calls 'scabs.'

I didn't write the Definitive History etc, but one on his side of the fence did. I go along with the definition espoused by Alex on his site. You apply before a specified date, and you're a scab. Simple.

But Kaptin M refuses to go along with that concept for his own reasons. If and when he admits it, then it won't be mentioned again byh me. It's just difficult to swallow the self righteous attitude when, in spite of fitting the criteria, everybody else is a scab but he's not.

Back to a previous post Kaptin regarding abuse. I do not, nor will I stoop to personal abuse. Search these threads and you will find none.

Dr Phil, I am happy here, just a KM, Amos, TTT etc say they're happy where they are being paid bulk US$$$, but it doesn't mean that they or I shouldn't contribute here. I'm certainly not bitter and twisted over an event that happened 14 years ago in a backwater of the world. That's how it's seen.

Incidentally, just yesterday I was talking with a colleague over a cold Angkor, and we spoke about how the QF Pilots' union had given an undertaking not to carry domestic pax during the term of the dispute, likewise CX Pilots' Assn, and they carried pax unashamedly all over the country. Actually, we were told by the AFAP that those undertakings were given, but I'm sure they never were. Those pilots assisted the government to break the domestic pilots, but where did hundreds scurry off to as the whole thing unravelled? CX and QF and called these pilots, who assisted the government to put them out of jobs, their mates. The logic beats me.

I merely accept the definition

Kaptin M

23rd Apr 2003, 13:48

Scab List.
Well I see YOUR name in spot number 511, on page 7, ppkid - let's read on.....scabbed in Week 17, AN re-hire, B737.
No need to try to interpret definitions - you're fully qualified as a SCAB, kid.

Negotiations??Under the 'Definitive History of the Pilots' Dispute of 1989' the author defines a scab. Briefly, he includes those who were in negotiations with the companies prior to the AFAP giving the all clear....
What negotiations?
You're dribbling again kid!!
You made the statement that you have solid proof that I was rejected - time to put up. Or remain the LIAR I have proven YOU to be with other false statements e.g. the penalties for making a false Stat Dec.

Thanks for the advice, Dr Phil, makes interesting reading, son (as a "single digit" in 1989:I was but a single digit when the events of 89 unfolded........that makes you at least 4 years younger than my oldest child.)

And a bit of fatherly advice for you too, son, if some of the posters are causing you aggro, then skip over them - don't dwell on it, to the point where your young head hurts:but its getting annoying reading these aggressively 'fonted' posts

And to the wizard of auz, I would rate you as OVER QUALIFIED as an International Pilot (something to which ppkid aspires, but which I very much doubt he would have the ability to achieve!!).
You're right you know, Wiz, the harder a pilot has to work in aviation, the LESS he gets remunerated. :{

permFO

23rd Apr 2003, 14:36

As I understand the events of '89, the mass resignation by the AFAP was considered to be an industrial tactic by the union in order to get the 2 companies to negotiate directly with them. From what I can gather that is also what was told to the membership when they were told to sign the resignation letter. When the letters were presented to the Companies involved rather than saying ok we better talk to the boys they took it as ok we no longer have any pilots in our employ we better invite applications from those who are interested in flying for us. The AFAP however continued to see it as no they are still our jobs we resigned only as an industrial tactic therefore you must still negotiate with us.
My question is- If you fully supported the AFAPs view then why would you need to apply for a job which you would still consider to be yours unless you no longer believed that you had a job? If you didn't support the unions view and submitted an application (irrespective of what was subsequently done with that application) then that would make you what?

Kaptin M

24th Apr 2003, 03:20

It might (or might not) have been a questioning of whether the Feds' strategies at that particular time, were correct. However, it became almost immediately obvious to me, following my action, that the MORAL ISSUES involved – of betraying my fellow pilots, and their families – far outweighed and overshadowed any industrial issues.

And it was those moral tenets – the foundations upon which decent men and women base their daily lives, to maintain an ordered, democratic society, rather than anarchy – that caused me to terminate my destructive act, and to take responsibility for my deeds, that had the potential of destroying hundreds of honest people, and my own self esteem.

phnompenhkid

24th Apr 2003, 10:20

Kaptin M, I`m not sure that you have my identity correct, but it doesn`t matter.

I`m proud of going back to work. As Alex and his brother said to me in the AFAP nerve centre in November 1989 - go back to work and take your own job, and you can take ours as well because we`re not going back.` Once again, I consider I was awarded the VC EQUIVALENT for common sense whilst under fire. You know the sort of fire - abuse, painting gates and cars etc. All fine behaviour for so called professionals.

Open invitation from the boys close to the action, and one who said `I can`t tell you what we`re going to do, but it`ll really f$#k them. Yeah right!!

I accept the definition as well as the tag KM. It`s up to you to do so, or is it a little like real international pilots, regional international pilots, and domestic pilots? You place yourself where you want to be. Let me say it again - flying is taking off somewhere and landing somewhere. I can`t make it simpler than that for you. If I could, I would, because it seems that you`re having difficulty with the concept.

One more thing - the Angkor is still sweet and the ladies still pretty. It seems that are becoming moreso by the day as I settle in. I`m looking forward to completion of the house on the Tonle Sap.

LooseConnection

24th Apr 2003, 11:21

Thanks for the invite for a "coldee" ppk but I don't think I'll ever take you up on it - maybeeeeeeeeee! When Hell Freezes Over.

Re your Jim Thompson character perhaps someone had a score to settle, could happen to anyone anywhere. It's not my bag but then I don't have to live looking over my shoulder all day.

Perhaps you should consider putting your river shack in trust also. :E

The Enema Bandit

24th Apr 2003, 12:41

This thread is a bit like fishing with all the bites.....

phnompenhkid

25th Apr 2003, 10:44

They just don`t get it bandit, do they??

Loosey, I`m really $hitting myself. I have no doubt someone of your calibre (or is that ilk, KM?) would have the capacity to land one on me from behind, because that`s the only way you`d ever be able to do it.

As for Jim Thompson`s disappearance, it was never suspected as a score settling. Communist insurgents or an attack by a tiger were considered the front runners in the suspicion stakes. Sorry to disappoint you.

No doubt it`s not your style because you wouldn`t be able to swing the bottle of Angkor. You`d have both hands down the front of your duds.

But, there could be worse ways to go than take one over the head from a full bottle of cold Angkor, couldn`t there?

You`ve got to be kidding; looking over my shoulder for a possible threat by a worm like you!! The only looking over my shoulder I do is when another attractive and elegant Khmer lady passes me (no doubt because she knows the real meaning of being a $cab!) and I want to get a look at the a$$ as well. Aren`t they just the cutest butts in this part of the world?

No doubt, if I was more of a man, she`d stop and say something like `You don`t look like a $cab PPK; why don`t we go back to my place?` and I`d miss out again because of my actions 14 years ago.

LooseConnection

25th Apr 2003, 12:25

ppk, I think the vitriole and invective pouring from you of late on this and other threads within D & G says it all don't you.

A gutter feeder of the lowest order. :8

Truth Seekers Int'nl

25th Apr 2003, 16:12

permFO just to keep the record straight.the AFAP didn't get their members to resign en masse so they could talk to the companies. they did it to protect assets that were threatened in the writs. these writs were trivialised by the AFAP in the early days, many AFAP head honchos laughing them off as a "tactic" the companies were going to use to scare the membership back to work. well the only party that got scared was the AFAP executive whom were ill advised by their legal eagles (that's another joke) to resign. that was a great tactic from an industrial viewpoint and virtually ended any further room for negotiation. the trap had been set and the AFAP barrelled in hook, line and sinker!

phnompenhkid

26th Apr 2003, 14:25

Thanks you once again loosey for your thoughtful input!!

TheNightOwl

26th Apr 2003, 14:44

"Thoughtful", ppk? Surely "thoughtless" might be more apt, assuming the thought process is a faculty he possesses!
C'mon, amos, give it your best shot!!

Kind regards,

TheNightOwl.:D :D

Truth Seekers Int'nl

26th Apr 2003, 18:39

don't encourage that rubbish Night Owl.

phnompenhkid

27th Apr 2003, 08:34

I`m with you TSI, but they bite so well I can`t help myself. Like I said previously, it`s like shooting fish in a barrel.

Arctaurus

27th Apr 2003, 14:07

Kap -

" .......... However, it became almost immediately obvious to me, following my action, that the MORAL ISSUES involved – of betraying my fellow pilots, and their families – far outweighed and overshadowed any industrial issues."

Just a bit too altruistic and facile. Are we not looking at some serious back pedalling and self justification here?

Could we be wrong in suggesting that you were ALWAYS intending to go back to work at the very earliest opportunity and that your "midnight" dash to return to the fat man's fold finally revealed your true colours ?

I believe it was only extreme pressure by the radical leadership few that caused you to have a "change of heart" rather than the fact that you yourself were gripped with an attack of "moral jitters".

Most of your posts up to recently have contained what I thought were rational and erudite comments. Sometimes one sided, but that's part of the argument and discussion that makes this forum work.

But your most recent ramblings and admissions are very disappointing to a lot of us and I now wonder how you think your credibility can remain intact. :( :(

phnompenhkid

30th Apr 2003, 10:36

Arctaurus,

Many, including the good Kaptin`s friends, are thinking likewise. He claims he withdrew because of moral issues, but I think otherwise. Even if he wasn`t rejected, as he proclaims, then he would have been put under enormous pressure like the rest of those who chose to sign.

Kaptin M`scredibility is seriously under scrutiny even by his mates and brothers in arms; more than ever before. I`ve said it here previously that the members had nothing to fear from those who declared their hands by signing and staying signed, but those who sneaked in the back door at midnight to sign, and then when discovered and `counselled` by the AFAP on the stupidity of what they`d done, changed their minds were the ones to fear. They then became the pillars of strength of the movement.

First there would have been the `phone call from an F27 Captain bleating that he was unemployable on the world market, and if you went back then it would effectively end his career.

That then escalated to minor threats, and if the recalcitrant individual continued his folly, then the really serious harrassment started, e.g., removing the sump plug from the car, painting the fence or car, right up to and including sending a funeral director to the weak one`s house to collect the body. Really professional stuff.

Maybe the undertaker with a tape measure hanging over his shoulder arriving at the door to take measurements for the box was the cause of his `moral jitters!`

phnompenhkid

2nd May 2003, 10:37

Kaptin M,

Regarding your post early in this thread, perhaps you can enlighten us, or is that regale us, with tales of your exploits in international flying. That`s real international flying of course as opposed to regional international flying.

It seems that you may not be the gun REAL international pilot to which you allude being.

Please go ahead and tell us all.

LooseConnection

2nd May 2003, 11:55

Just interested ppk just how many a/c do you have in this wonderful airline that your in, as at the present time AND I'm not talking about forward orders for as we know they are always rubbery.

Please enlighten the masses as all I can find is B737 rego XU-735

Also how is SARS affecting this booming outfit that is a threat to the likes of CX. As you said previous standing room only getting to VHHH all of us here would like to know? :hmm:

phnompenhkid

3rd May 2003, 13:30

Just one. But then, QF had just one, AN had just one and no doubt a hundred other airlines of the world had just one as well at some stage.

This post is a silly attempt to take the heat off the good KM since he hasn`t responded with anything on his international experience.

But I digress. Let`s get back to the subject. I didn`t say standing room only on the HKG flights. I believe I said that it was the best of our routes for loads, about 80%. May be wrong on the exact percentage, but never standing room only. You guys have an amazing propensity for misquoting, but then you`ve had a lot of practice misquoting `facts` for thepast 14 years.

The other thing I would never suggest is that I work for a `wonderful` airline. Firstly, `wonderful` is a girls` word to cover everything their vocabulary doesn`t manage to embrace, and secondly, I will never believe that any organization is that good. They are all just managements after all, and one need only read these forums to know how little most employees think of their companies/managements.

I imagine SARS has had an impact, and the loads to HKG are no doubt boosted by a drop in frequency by Dragon, but it`s an ill wind that blows no good.

Now onto Kaptin M since he hasn`t come back with a summary of his REAL international piloting experience.

He says that he makes no secret of his identity and indeed he doesn`t. He currently works for a company known as JAS in Japan, and they currently fly NO international routes.

So Kaptin M is an imposter and fraud on yet another count. The first, of course, being that he signed with AN in 89, and falls within the definition espoused by Alex, the author of the definitive history of the pilots` dispute, as a scab. He is a fraud on that count also, because when he finally was forced into a corner and compelled to admit that, he then tried to justify it.

So, Kaptin M, your credibility takes another pounding. If you were Jeff Fenech, Johnny Lewis would never have you get off your a$$ for the next round.

I believe your credibility is being questioned by a number of the 89ers, and you may just find yourself ostracised by your buddies just as we have been. The difference here, of course, is that I couldn`t give a $hit, and you will.

What a joke!!!

I`m going to have to stop dong this or I could end up as silly as an 89er.

permFO

5th May 2003, 09:18

PPK - I think what is happening here is that the 89ers are finding that hyprocrisy is a very difficult argument to defend. Kaptin M's defense of his actions have now descended into rhetoric and an appeal to the moral rightness of his decisions. They are even accusing you of vitriol and abuse whereas for years we have been reading the drivel of amos 2 etc. For years they were taking pot shots at AN pilots about how they wouldn't last in the "real world "of aviation and what would happen if they were silly enough to venture beyond the shores of Oz but as with a lot of their assertions it was all garbage.

amos2

5th May 2003, 19:52

Hmmm!...It's fairly obvious why permFO is a permFO!! ;)

Wizofoz

5th May 2003, 22:21

amos, do you REALLY think your inane comments reflect on anyone but yourself?

amos2

6th May 2003, 17:22

Well!...apparently on you Wiz! ;)

the wizard of auz

6th May 2003, 18:26

But definately not on this Wiz. ;)

permFO

6th May 2003, 20:17

Amos 2 - Wow is that an original thought!

TheNightOwl

8th May 2003, 07:58

permFO: Let me enlighten you - an original thought in amos2's head would die of loneliness and boredom. Indeed, it would probably commit suicide on arrival in that chamber of horrors!!

Kind regards,

TheNightOwl. :D

Hugh Jarse

8th May 2003, 08:01

Only 16 more posts until this pointless thread closes:ok: :E :E

the wizard of auz

9th May 2003, 20:14

Only fifteen now!!! :ok: :E :}

B772

11th May 2003, 17:41

Just read a report Mekong Airlines has reduced staff numbers by 20, both local and expat.

20 staff for a single a/c operation must be a large %.

LooseConnection

13th May 2003, 00:25

Seems like ppk may have been a victim here, or is he off finishing his pad on the river. You have being very quiet ppk. :\

ferris

18th May 2003, 22:43

If you still follow this forum, would you mind letting us in on what happened/is going on? 'Politics' not involved, just an interested bystander.

Betelgeuse

18th May 2003, 22:43

So - why so quiet phnompenhkid?

In a couple of previous posts you said

I love it here, and even if this nice little airline didn't survive, I think I'd stay.

And in another post…..

As for being out of a job, it's not a great concern to me. I indicated some time ago that I would like to stay, and probably will, or at worst, commute from here. I have a nice young lady here, and the future is looking good.

Was the above for real, or was it simply more BS? Or have you already flown the coop?

Exactly what stage are you up to with the house? Or was that all BS too?

Kaptin M

21st May 2003, 11:02

Reports from people within Mekong confirm that ppkid has definitely NOT bought any land there....surprise, surprise...NOT.

More lies and mis-information from his last (final?) postNow onto Kaptin M since he hasn`t come back with a summary of his REAL international piloting experience.
He says that he makes no secret of his identity and indeed he doesn`t. He currently works for a company known as JAS in Japan, and they currently fly NO international routes.
So Kaptin M is an imposter and fraud on yet another count

I have NEVER stated, or otherwise indicated that I fly for JAS - however I did fly 747's for Singapore Airlines for 5 1/2 years.

Phnompenhkid, you are so FULL of sh!t - and permFO, you have been sucked in well and truly, young lady, by him.

Who can forget ppkid's, "I love it so much here, that I'll probably stay, even after this job finishes".

Wonder if he consulted with his wife and kids on that one?
Oh, I forgot, he was telling the Khmer female cabin crew (and his girlfriend...from the Rose Bar) that he was divorced!!
Strange then that he'd have them staying with him in the Hotel a couple of weeks ago, if he was divorced!!

A LIAR...a PHILANDERER.....and let's not forget.....a SCAB.

Fine company indeed, you and Wizofoz have decided to team up with, permFO!
Birds of a feather, perhaps!!

EPIRB

21st May 2003, 12:34

Where have you been Kaptin? We missed ya!

Wizofoz

21st May 2003, 15:09

He's been racking his brains trying to come up with an excuse for applying for his job back during the dispute. Any luck on that score Kap?

Kaptin M

21st May 2003, 20:22

Thanks EPIRB - a couple of brief visits to Oz :cool: (one for the Hazo 50th celebration and re-union), and a couple of weeks in Hanmer Springs, N.Z. What a great spot THAT is....one of Kiwiland's best kept secrets.

The only reason - not "excuse", Wiz - was that I must have suffered a temporary lapse of rational and moral reasoning.

Fortunately I got over it within a few days!

However it appears that you, Wiz, along with phnompenkid and a relative handful of others will NEVER!!

phnompenhkid has done ALL '89'ers a great service by printing his lies and fantasies on this public forum, only to be exposed for what he - and those of you, Wizofoz, who have declared yourselves to be "birds of the same feather" REALLY are. :E