On Boxing Day afternoon, we all headed over to Subic Bay, a short drive away from Clark. Subic Bay used to be the largest US naval installation in the entire Pacific until its closure in 1992, partially as a consequence of the eruption of Mount Pinatubo only 20 miles away. When it erupted in 1991, it did so with a force 8 times more powerful than the blast which saw Mount St. Helens spew ash 80,000 feet (24,000 metres) into the atmosphere in Washington State 11 years earlier.
The consequences of the Pinatubo eruption were drastic and long-lasting. One day after the event, the whole of Subic Bay lay buried under 12 inches (30cm) of volcanic ash, as death and destruction rained down over a widespread area around the volcano. In the days following the explosion, 17 ships evacuated all 20,000 dependents from the naval base. Clark airfield, much closer to the eruption, could not be salvaged and plans for a complete withdrawal were immediately put into place there. Whilst Subic did recommence operations (albeit temporarily), disagreements between the US and Philippine governments could not be resolved. As a result the Stars and Stripes flag was lowered at the naval base for the very last time just 12 months later.
Today Subic Bay has become a tourist destination, primarily for those interested in taking part in the competitions regularly held there or auditioning for the much sought-after places in the cheerleading after-hours entertainment brigades.
The consequences of the Pinatubo eruption were drastic and long-lasting. One day after the event, the whole of Subic Bay lay buried under 12 inches (30cm) of volcanic ash, as death and destruction rained down over a widespread area around the volcano. In the days following the explosion, 17 ships evacuated all 20,000 dependents from the naval base. Clark airfield, much closer to the eruption, could not be salvaged and plans for a complete withdrawal were immediately put into place there. Whilst Subic did recommence operations (albeit temporarily), disagreements between the US and Philippine governments could not be resolved. As a result the Stars and Stripes flag was lowered at the naval base for the very last time just 12 months later.
Today Subic Bay has become a tourist destination, primarily for those interested in taking part in the competitions regularly held there or auditioning for the much sought-after places in the cheerleading after-hours entertainment brigades.
The stakes are high so a quick discussion takes place to discuss poise, pose and posture before performing in front of the judges.
The result is a definite contender for the Mother and Daughter Best Bums Award 2011.
A disqualified entry in the most perverse dive discipline, as no actual physical assistance is allowed.
A prime example of expert choreographic tuition rendered to an onlooking novice
during the YMCA aquatic dance rehearsals.
No comments:
Post a Comment