Obituary for Michael “Mike B” Bartholomey: A Life of Passion, Entrepreneurship and Community
With deep sadness, we remember Michael Bartholomey, better known as Mike B, who passed away at the end of November 2025. He leaves behind a lasting legacy – as the founder of Payout Magazine and the operator of the Howling Dogs Sports Bar in the Philippines. His impact reached people in many different worlds: from the web affiliate industry to a vibrant expat community in Cebu City.
Early Life & Character
Michael Bartholomey was a lively yet grounded personality. He quickly became known as “Mike B” – a name that many in his industry associated with passion, technical skill, and a strong sense of entrepreneurial responsibility. He was not only a visionary but also someone who put his whole heart into everything he did: whether tech, editorial work, or hospitality – he was always hands-on.
Payout Magazine: His Heart as a Publisher
- Founding and Focus
Mike B was the co-founder and long-time publisher of Payout Magazine, an online publication focused on news, interviews, and industry events related to the adult web affiliate world. His dedication is evident in older issues: In Payout Magazine Volume 7.2, he is explicitly listed as “Co-founder & Publisher”. - Personal Style
He placed great value on a personal touch: Although he was an entrepreneur, he was also a hands-on “doer” who wrote content himself, organized interviews, documented events, and worked closely with the community. His Facebook account clearly shows how active he was – for example, with photography from events like the Venus Berlin Expo. - Recognition & Influence
His brand was so central that the official Payout Magazine website published an obituary in November 2025: Remembering Michael Bartholomey: The Beloved Owner of Payout Magazine and Passionate Entrepreneur. This made clear how deeply he was appreciated by the community.
Howling Dogs Sports Bar: His Second Home in the Philippines
Beyond the magazine, Mike B was also active as a restaurateur in the real world. He owned and operated the Howling Dogs Sports Bar in Cebu City, Philippines.
- Location & Concept
According to his Instagram profile, the bar was an important part of his life as an entrepreneur. On Facebook, “Howling Dogs Sports Bar Mango ave and Jackosalem str Cebu City” appears as the location. - Atmosphere & Audience
The bar was a popular meeting place for expats and locals alike. On forums like “Philippines-Expats.com,” one visitor described the Howling Dogs Bar as “not a typical ‘girlie bar’, but with good music.” Other reviews, such as on TripAdvisor, mention live bands, a lively atmosphere, multiple large screens showing sports events, and classic, rustic bar food. - Community & Management
Several social media posts show that Mike B wasn’t just the owner, but personally looked after the daily business: He regularly posted about happy hours, new issues of Payout Magazine, and events at the bar. His bar was not just a place to drink – it was a space for connections, friendship, and energy.
His Legacy & Impact
At the same time, his Howling Dogs Sports Bar was a lively gathering place, a social center, and a home-away-from-home for many expats and locals. His vision blended digital media with welcoming hospitality – a rare and powerful combination.
Farewell & Remembrance
His passing leaves a void in many worlds. But what he built continues to live on:
- Payout Magazine will live on as his legacy – carried by readers, affiliate professionals, and those he inspired through his work.
- Howling Dogs Sports Bar remains a lively place of remembrance: a place where people met, laughed, connected – and thought of Mike B.
Many friends and colleagues have already expressed their sympathy in numerous social media posts. His name will continue to be spoken with respect, gratitude, and affection. The entire Eurorgazm team will also miss Michael deeply — we raise a glass to his memory and hope that he is now up there sharing a cigar with Julius and watching over us.
