MANILA Students on FIRE!

WOW! Probably an overused phrase, I am sure, but the kids of Manila were dyn-o-mite! The venue was pretty sad, maybe one of the worst I have ever seen. They had very few, only 2 exit points from the floor. I had them open a couple gates and put stairs in front of them to allow students to get up and out in an emergency. But, when I walked away they took them away and kept locking the gates. So, there were two exits off the floor and there were 2000 people in that area. I know now why you hear of 1000 people dying in a fire in places like this. They also kept locking doors all around the building when everyone got inside. They said it was a "control" issue. I said it was a fire trap. (Could have used another "security" person). However, we got by with no problems and the kids were Brazil-Like. What I mean is they did not want to quit singing and started their own song when the band was through. They were wild and energetic, so full of life, yet very respectful.

There is a semi'additional twist to the "Ashley" Story for thos who know it. For Louie's birthday, 3 weeks ago, The father of Ashley sent him the "original" journal/diary, which had a few more details that we heard. So, the father of Ashley seems to be "softening" or at least not hardening his heart to the message.

Well, it is 0100 hrs here on Saturday morning. We fly out Saturday, today, for Kaula Lampur, Malaysia. So, for now, I sign off. I apologize for no pictures yet, I hope to remedy that, but have had little time to take many pictures. It has rained the entire time since we have been here in Manila.