http://xpress.nationmultimedia.com/pdf/20080320

PY O C E FRE

YOU COULD FIND

A DREAM JOB HERE.

SEE PAGES 31-34

XPRESS

DAILY

Thursday, March 20, 2008 VOL 1, NO 16 dailyxpress.net

GOOD MORNING BANGKOK!

LIFE SHOULD NOT BE A CLONE

Give us mums the facilities

By Saraichatt Kunjara Jirapaet Emcee & socialite

I

have never cared about, or ever been interested in, diaper changing and breastfeeding rooms. But since I had my baby girl Bella, who is six months old, both have become important and made my life a lot easier. I am very happy when I visit malls that provide these facilities for mothers. However, I am disappointed with other malls, hotels and restaurants that are too ignorant to provide these rooms for mothers and babies, yet have rooms for smokers.

Loads of fun stuff

SUPERSTAR TATA YOUNG says her new-age, liberal lifestyle should not be considered a model for today’s Thai women.

>> Okay, you’ve always hit the beaches of Krabi & Phuket. Now how about heading to Trang? It’s an idyllic tropical paradise. >PAGE 9

DAILY XPRESS\SUKOL KERDNAIMONGKOL

>PAGE 4

>> BLOGGERS, we publicise your views! >PAGE 11

>> TEEN love & movies >> HEALTH & you >> SNAP UP antiques and get bargains >PAGES 18-22

2 TODAY

Thursday, March 20, 2008

THE CITY

DAILY XPRESS

1896

THE YEAR King Rama V presided over the first train service on March 26.

Bangkok streets plundered of Bt29m

briefly

209 steel manhole covers have been stolen from 10 capital underpasses in recent weeks Nation Multimedia Group president Thanachai Santichaikul hands a bouquet of flowers to Her Majesty the Queen’s deputy principal private secretary, wishing the Queen a quick recovery.

D A I LY X P R E S S

I

nfrastructure from Bangkok streets and sidewalks worth around Bt29 million were stolen last year alone, deputy Bangkok governor Bannasophis Mekwichai said yesterday.

The figure was released in the wake of a recent theft in which 209 steel manhole covers in 10 Bangkok underpasses were stolen in recent weeks. Tha Phra police later arrested a man whose six-wheel truck that was carrying the 209 covers, worth Bt600,000.

Bannasophis called on those witnessing such thefts to call Bangkok Metropolitan Administration line 1555 or police line 191.

An artist’s impression of a BRT station.

R APID TR ANSIT SYSTEM

BUSES TO ZIP YOU AROUND Commuters can hitch a free ride for the first six months on gas-powered vehicles that will eventually cover five routes D A I LY X P R E S S

A

Concrete covers are put in place of steel grills, which have been stolen at an underpass in Tha Phra.

Composition for the Queen

n initial Bus Rapid Transit service will commence on August 12, Her Majesty the Queen’s birthday.

The service will be free for six months, deputy Bangkok governor Phanich Wikitsate says.

The route is along Narathiwat Rajanakarin, Rama III and Charoen Raj roads.

The three 12-metre, naturalgas-powered buses will be evaluated for safety and service standard over the six-month period.

Eventually, five BRT routes

will be run, with a total of 45 buses. The last phase – Chong Nonsi-RatchadaphisekRajjaphruek – is expected to be operational next year, once stations are complete, Phanich says.

A smart navigation system controls BRT operations. This will be installed and activated after the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration secures a contractor.

BRT is a bus-based publictransit system running in special lanes on local streets in major areas of the capital. It was an

XTRA RELIEF FOR COMMUTERS >> The Bus Rapid Transit service will start operations on HM the Queen’s birthday. >> The bus service will be free for the first six months. >> Elevators for disabled commuters will be built at four terminal stations.

A new song will be composed and released on August 12 to mark Her Majesty the Queen’s 76th birthday, renowned singer Suthep Wongkamhaeng said yesterday.

The song will be composed by eight renowed composers and songwriters and share a resemblance with “Father of the Land” song released last year to mark His Majesty the King’s 80th birthday.

Somchai’s warning Education Minister Somchai Wongsawat yesterday urged the Basic Education Commission not to accept ‘tea money’ for a student’s place.

‘Big’ funeral election promise of incumbent Bangkok governor Apirak Kosayodhin.

Elevators for disabled commuters will eventually be built at four terminal stations.

The funeral of Parnrawat or Apichet “Big” Kittikorn-charoen of the D2B band will be held today at Samut Prakan’s Nam Daeng Temple at 5pm.

>>DAILY XPRESS is edited by Tulsathit Taptim and published by NMG News Co Ltd, at 1854, Bang Na-Trat Road, Bangkok 10260, and printed

by WPS (Thailand) Co Ltd, Tel (02) 338 3000, Fax (02) 338 3334. EDITORIAL: Tel (02) 338 3333. ON THE WEB: DAILYXPRESS.NET >>DAILY XPRESS is a supplement to subscriber copies of THE NATION with bonus distribution in selected areas of Bangkok and its environs every Monday to Saturday. The Sunday edition of DAILY XPRESS incorporates THE NATION. Subscription rates: one year 4,900 Baht within regular delivery areas; please contact Customer Service on (02) 338 3000. For bulk copy subscription rates please call (02) 338 3532.

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4

COVER STORY

Thursday, March 20, 2008

DAILY XPRESS

Just an EVERYGIRL She may be a pop sensation, a sex kitten and someone who likes shooting off her mouth, but Tata Young insists that she really is ordinary, just like you and me

By Lisnaree Vichitsorasatra D A I LY X P R E S S

espite Tata Young insisting that she’s ordinary and just like one of us, not many people are convinced.

She may be dressed in a plain, grey outfit, but Thailand’s top pop star has a confident look in her eyes, one that says, “I shouldn’t be wearing this dress.”

The Daily Xpress asked her if she encourages women to express their sexuality, the way she does in her performances and videos.

“First of all, I think it’s none of my business to judge anybody about the way they are.

“Everybody has their personal character. I respect people the way they are,” Tata responds.

“I don’t encourage people to be like me. I can’t make them feel or be the person I am, because they are not me.”

Raised by an American father and a Thai mother, Tata isn’t the type of person to keep her mouth shut.

Even her close friend, model Chollada Mekratri says that Tata is a very straightforward person, unlike most Thais.

In fact, she’s so straightforward that many people can’t handle it. It is a double-edged

D

sword, she says. Critics call her arrogant. But, Tata doesn’t feel she needs to change.

“I don’t think I am like that of course,” she explains.

“I can’t make everybody feel the way I want them to feel. The best thing for me to do is do my best with the job I have.”

The future’s so much brighter Though Tata’s former relationship with tennis player Paradorn Srichapan was much talked about, she prefers to leave it behind.

“I don’t really like to talk about the past, because there isn’t really anything to talk about.

The future is nicer,” she responds.

Yes, her romantic future is much nicer. Tata confirms that she will soon be marrying Prem Busarakamwong, the son of a boxing-camp owner.

Tata and Prem had been friends for years before they got even closer while promoting a video that encouraged people to visit the Kingdom after the tsunami. The video.

This year, Tata turns 28, and she says she couldn’t be happier.

Read the entire interview at: blog.nationmultimedia.com/lisnaree

XTRA T H E E V E R Y D AY TATA >> Not the lingerie type: Tata a Pooh bear T-shirt to bed. >> Not the dieting type: She’s into tom yam spicy noodles and can never say no to mango and nam pla wan.

DAILY XPRESS/SUKUL KERDNAIMONGKOL

>> Not the adventurous type: While on holiday, she spends her time sleeping and watching movies at home with a large serving of popcorn. >> Not her first heartbreak: Her heart’s been broken a lot of times before Paradorn. >> Why she loves Prem: ‘He’s very sweet, very polite... he’s got a soft side’.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

CITY NEWS 5

DAILY XPRESS

SET TO DOWN THAT PILL? JUST HOLD ON ...

People risk resistance and severe side effects with wanton consumption of antibiotics, health research chief warns

By Pongphon Sarnsamak D A I LY X P R E S S

T

he Public Health Ministry says as much as Bt76 billion is wasted on needless prescriptions of drugs.

It says the unnecessary prescription of antibiotics cost Bt16 billion alone.

The chief of the Health Systems Research Institute, Dr Pongpisuth Jongudom, says unwarranted prescription can result in drug resistance, poor patient outcomes, adverse drug reactions and wasted resources.

Imported drugs cost Bt38 billion a year. The most prescribed are antibiotics, which cost Bt7.5 billion a year. Most people believe antibiotics are necessary.

Dr Pisonthi Chongtrakul says penicillin is the most common antibiotic and used to treat bacteria. It does not work with viruses.

“The misuse of antibiotics can cause severe side effects like skin shedding and blindness. Some drugs affect the liver and kidneys,” he says.

He suggests antibiotics be used only with specific symptoms, to guard against drug re-

THE MISUSE OF ANTIBIOTICS CAN CAUSE SEVERE SIDE EFFECTS LIKE SKIN SHEDDING AND BLINDNESS.SOME DRUGS AFFECT THE LIVER AND KIDNEYS. Dr Pisonthi Chongtrakul

Guard against tuberculosis

By Duangkamol Sajirawattanakul D A I LY X P R E S S

W

ith 91,000 new tuberculosis patients and 7,000 deaths a year, Thailand is the world’s 18th worst affected country.

The Public Health Ministry encourages sufferers to take medication as prescribed, or face developing drug-resistant strains.

The National Health Security Office spends Bt200 million a year reducing the incidence of TB. Deputy permanent secretary for Public Health, Paijit Worachit, says next Monday’s

THE PUBLIC HEALTH MINISTRY ENCOURAGES SUFFERERS TO TAKE MEDICATION AS PRESCRIBED,OR FACE DEVELOPING DRUG-RESISTANT STRAINS.

XTRA >> Thailand is 18th of 22

countries still suffering with TB. >> Each year 91,000 new TB patients emerge and between 5,000 and 7,000 die from it. >> Out of the estimated

1,500 with drugresistant TB, about 5.5 per cent are severe.

SOURCE: PUBLIC HEALTH MINISTRY DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT.

World Tuberculosis Day will help build public awareness that TB remains epidemic in much of the world.

Here the numbers were high because of the spread of HIV/Aids and illegalimmigrant workers.

It is estimated 91,000 new TB patients emerge each year and there are between 5,000 and 7,000 deaths annually. About a quarter of all cases are drugresistant strains.

Department deputy head Dr Somchai Pinyopornpanich says

Kalasin hit by diarrhoea Unclean drinking water and poorly cooked food have caused as many as 4,250 cases of diarrhoea in Kalasin in the past three months.

“Most patients are young children,” preventive-medicine specialist at Kalasin public health office, Dr Somyos Srijaranai, says.

He adds the office is running random checks at food shops and restaurants.

“We have now randomly checked servings at food shops and restaurants in the province especially those selling somtam,” Somyos added.

Panic over rabbit fever

,, sistance. General fevers or sore throats can be fought off by patients immune systems. “If you have a cough, gargle salt water for a few days,” he says.

The Food and Drug Administration is introducing an Antibiotic Smart Use project in conjunction with the World Health Organisation to reduce the misuse of antibiotics.

briefly

the TB bacteria can infect many parts of the body, including bones, ovaries and lungs.

He encourages parents to get children vaccinated to prevent tuberculosis meningitis. Adults should get regular checks.

Pet shops are suffering huge losses after customers refuse to collect animals in the wake of one death from rabbit fever.

Pet shops in Nakhon Sawan say customers refuse to come an pick up pets, especially rabbits and mice.

“Now, we have to raise these animals,” one owner complains. He said pet shops are normally busy with orders ahead of the school break.

Nakhon Sawan livestock chief Somboon Srisuthep urges people not to panic about rabbit fever.

“This disease is not as serious as bird flu or rabies,” he explains. Owners should wash hands after coming into contact with pets.

“If you are bitten or have wound on your hands, clean the wound immediately,” Somboon says.

Northeast set for more storms Hailstorms damaged four houses in Kalasin on Tuesday night. They uprooted five trees, which blocked traffic. No one was killed or injured.

Volunteers are cleaning up.

Damage is estimated at around Bt50,000. Governor Pracha Jitsuttiphon advises local residents to prepare for more storms.

“This is a transitional time to a new season,” he said.

Pracha adds rescue workers and volunteers are on standby for emergency relief and rescue operations.

6

LIFE

Thursday, March 20, 2008

DAILY XPRESS

CITYSCENE IN PICTURES

Families flock to Dusit Zoo anniversary

More than 40 different frogs will be displayed in five zoos as part of an international campaign to raise awareness of the sharp decline in the amphibian population.

Deputy Director General of the Zoological Park Organisation Wisid Wichasilpa, said the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) were promoting this “2008 Year of the Frog” campaign after more than 40 per cent if frog species had become extinct due to global warming.

Wisid cited that 20 out of 50 species of

frogs in Costa Rica alone were gone, affecting the biodiversity because these creatures helped keep nature balanced by eating insects.

With the sharp decline of frogs, insect numbers have increased and destroyed crops while frogeating animals like snakes and civets were also affected, he said.

The frog exhibition – which includes shows from a ‘smart frog’ named Nong Oui that can drive a toy motorbike and dance underwater – began yesterday at Bangkok’s Dusit Zoo, which was also

celebrating its 70th anniversary. Other frogs on view include the African Bull frog, the African Underwater Frog, the Argentinean Horned Frog, and the Albino Woodhouse Toad.

The exhibition will run until March 23 before moving to four other zoos.

Dusit Zoo will also be open in the evenings from 6pm to 9pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from March 21.

– Tossaporn Wongwaikolayoot DAILY XPRESS

8 TODAY

Thursday, March 20, 2008

CRIME

31,036

DAILY XPRESS

people were arrested on drug charges in Bangkok in 2007, according to the BMA

Suspect Akaradej Tankae is escorted to a police news conference in Phuket yesterday.

briefly Riders hurt as brick hurled A motorcycle passenger and

,, SWEDISH TOURIST

MURDER SUSPECT SURRENDERS Arrested man puts tourist slaying down to stress and family problems DAILY EXPRESS

T

he man arrested for the murder of a Swedish tourist in Phuket said in his confession that he intended to rape the woman, but ended up killing her when she fought back.

Suspect Akaradej Tankae, 31, was presented to the news media in Phuket yesterday.

He surrendered to police in Ranong province earlier.

He said he’s been in hiding for three days at the casino resort of Koh Song in Burma.

Police say Akaradej fatally knifed Hanna Charlotta Backlund, 27, on Mai Khao Beach last Saturday where she was walking alone late at night.

Akaradej was on bail defend-

ing himself against theft charges in a criminal case dating back to 2006, police said.

“He said he acted alone and cited stress and family problems,” said Region 8 Deputy Police Commissioner MajGeneral Tawat Boonfeung.

The suspect was yesterday escorted to Mai Khao Beach for a re-enactment of the crime as part of police investigation.

Phuket Governor Niran Gallayanamit earlier said the arrest warrant issued on Tuesday

THE INITIAL INVESTIGATION FOUND THAT THE SUSPECT LIKES WATCHING TOURISTS WHO COME TO FOR A SWIM Niran Gallayanamit Phuket governor

was based on accounts from 12 witnesses allegedly linking Akaradej to the crime.

“The initial investigation found that the suspect likes watching tourists, especially foreign tourists, who come for a swim,” Niran said, adding that the case has tarnished the tourism industry in the resort island.

Police raid yields drugs, arms, vehicles DAILY XPRESS

F Suspects are presented to the press yesterday with the weapons and drugs that were allegedly in their possession.

ifteen suspected drug-dealers were arrested in two locations in Bangkok, police said yesterday. Some 200 policemen raided a house at 6am in Chom Thong district and a condominium in Bang Khae district and ar-

rested 15 suspects, including the alleged major dealer Suthep “Tum Pe” Boonkrajang. Guns, ammunition, 5,600 tablets of yaba, ten motorcycles and six cars were also seized.

Suthep, also wanted for a murder case in Bukkhalo police sta-

tion’s jurisdiction last year, reportedly confessed to the killing but denied dealing drugs.

Suthep also denied the weapons were for an attack on Bang Yi Reu precinct because it had launched a crackdown on drug trafficking.

rider were injured after two men hit them with a brick.

The incident happened on Charoenkrung-Assadang Intersection in Phra Nakhon district early yesterday.

Passenger, 19-year-old Tippawan Saklor, suffered face injuries and rider Tinnakorn Chaengkaset, 21, sustained bruises from falling off the bike.

According to a source, the attackers are Territorial Defence Department conscripts and angry with illegal road racers in the area. The victims are not racers.

Ex-police chief: I am innocent Ousted national police chief

Seripisut Temiyavej yesterday testified before a disciplinary panel over the Bt5.8 billion carrental corruption allegation.

He was also accused of illegally transferring police officers and using abuSeripisut sive language with subordinates.

After testifying, Seripisut said that he was innocent and expressed confidence he could clear himself of the charges. He also hit back at the premier for using inappropriate language with reporters.

Evidence against rogue officers Metropolitan Police yesterday insisted the evidence against Captain Nat Cholnithi-wanich and his rogue border patrol police gang was strongly incriminating.

Police had gathered 95 per cent of the evidence needed for the case, which would soon be ready for submission to public prosecutors to proceed to court, said Metropolitan deputy chief Watjanont Thirawat.

He expressed confidence the evidence was strong enough for prosecution and said the case submission should be done before March 25.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

TOURIST HAVENS

days of rain in Trang province in 2004, 10th highest in the country

COURTESY OF TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND

157

TODAY 9

DAILY XPRESS

TRANG

IDYLLIC ISLES FURTHER SOUTH With islands like the ‘Emerald Cave’, Trang offers a unique experience that is seriously off the well-trodden path

By Stephen Cleary DAILY XPRESS

W

hy is it that, with the age of the Internet and all the information available on places to go in Thailand, people, when choosing a holiday destination, always select the same old places? Especially, when it’s a tropical beach they are after.

So, for people who are bored of well-trodden tourist haunts and their endless array of banana boats and beer bars, why not get off the beaten track and head to Trang province in the south of Thailand?

While Phuket, Krabi and

Phang Nga get tourists and travellers by the bus and planeload, Trang’s coastal beaches and 47 islands remain virtually forgotten.

Natural and rare Among all those islands is beyond a doubt one of the most breathtaking in all of Thailand: “Emerald Cave”.

The island is one of only two in the world that has a huge sun-lit open-roof beach inside a cave.

Be warned though, it’s a trip that requires care and planning.

One can only get there and out during low tide by long-tailed

XTRA GETTING THERE >> Thai Airways has daily 90-minute flights from Bangkok to Trang. For more information, call (02) 280 0060, (02) 628 2000 (Bangkok office); (075) 219 923 or (075) 218 066 (Trang); or visit thaiairways.com and pbair.com. >> Express trains depart from Bangkok to Amphoe Kantang every day. Call Hua Lampong station on 1690; (02) 223 7010 or (02) 223 7020 or Trang station on (075) 218 012.

Or visit railway.co.th.

>> Air-conditioned buses depart from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok to Amphoe Muang in Trang everyday.

boat; otherwise you would be stuck inside perched on some rock until the following morning.

Trang’s other islands are known for their unspoilt beauty and are idyllic for simply sunbathing, diving or bird-spotting

(the species that has two wings and a beak).

When you’ve had enough of the sun, you’ll be going home via Trang provincial town, a place not only home to former prime minister, Chuan Leekpai.

Trang also has a unique breakfast cuisine found nowhere else in Thailand.

One of those is Hokkien-style “dim sum”, which is dished up at local morning coffee shops (ko pii).

Fortunately, you don’t even have to waste time trying to speak Thai to order, you simply eat what’s there laid on the table and pay for what you’ve eaten.

So, if you’re thinking of getting off the beaten track this summer, then think of sticking Trang on your itinerary.

10 DOWNSIDE OF MASS TOURISM

EXPAT PAGE

Thursday, March 20, 2008

151,586

DAILY XPRESS

PRISONERS WERE IN THAI JAILS in 2006, according to the Corrections Dept.

‘Paedophile’ arrests in Pattaya

High-profile prisoner

Two Britons have been arrest-

Russian Viktor Bout, behind bars in Bangkok.

The Criminal Court yesterday extended by 12 days the detention of the man alleged to be one of the world’s biggest blackmarket arms dealers.

Bout, 41, faces US charges of “conspiracy to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organisation” for allegedly arranging to sell weapons to the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia.

The multi-milliondollar deal he thought he had with Colombian rebels was really a sting operation by US agents. Thai authorities are also considering filing terrorism-related charges.

AFP

ed on paedophile charges in Pattaya, police said yesterday, including an elderly man detained several times before.

John Maurice Praill, 77, was arrested for alleged sexual abuse of an 8-year-old boy.

Police said it was at least the fourth time he had been taken in for such charges.

Praill was arrested at his home while free on bail on a previous charge, Police Col Khanisorn Yuwawithaya told the Associated Press.

One of four foreigners arrested on sex charges in Pattaya last March, Praill has a record of at least three previous arrests, Khanisorn said.

Praill’s lawyer, Nitiwat Pattanasarn, said his client denied the allegation against

AP

LIFE BEHIND BARS John Praill is surrounded by plainclothes police officers during an arrest at his house in Pattaya on Monday. him. He said the arrest was his client’s third, with charges dropped in one case and a trial under way for the other, in which he pleaded innocent.

According to the Pattaya Mail, Praill was arrested in December 1997 for allegedly molesting a boy, and was fined and released after denying the charge. It reported in March 2000 that he had been arrested on charges of sexually abusing two girls, ages 13 and 14.

Nitiwat said that Praill remained in police custody pending further investigation, but that he would request that his client be released on bail.

The identity of the other man arrested in the apartment on Monday was not revealed, but he is also believed to have been charged with molesting children aged under 13.

Thailand has been trying to clean up its image as a destination for paedophiles.

– Agencies

Thai prisoners, unlike their American or European counterparts abroad, live in open rooms devoid of beds or other furniture, writes Richard Barrow D A I LY X P R E S S

T

hailand may appear to attract a lot of foreign criminals. But there is also a number of foreigners who get on the wrong side of the law through unfortunate circumstances and simple bad luck.

Some are detained for months on end before they can clear their names and get released. What they have to endure once inside Thai jails is not easy, blogger Richard Barrow revealed in a recent piece he wrote for www.Thaiprisonlife.com: “Unlike their American or European counterparts, Thai prisoners live in open rooms with no beds or furniture of any kind. They aren’t even given any bedding. Sheets can be bought and some people stuff these with old clothes

in order to make pillows.

“Cells are about four metres by seven metres. On each side, people are lying side by side with their feet facing the middle. Down the centre of the cell, there are two rows of other prisoners. There are on average 50 prisoners in one cell.

Cells heat up quickly “There isn’t enough room for all of them to lie on their back.

New prisoners are only allocated another room to lie on their side. They are packed in so tightly that they cannot turn over. If they have any money, they can bribe the cell boss to let them lie on their backs. But, there isn’t enough room for them to all do that.

“The prisoners have to eat and shower by 3.30pm. Then they are taken to their cells.

,,

THERE ARE ON AVERAGE 50 PRISONERS IN ONE CELL.THEY ARE PACKED IN SO TIGHTLY THAT THEY CANNOT TURN OVER...

IF YOU HAVE ENOUGH MONEY,YOU CAN BRIBE ...AND BE TRANSFERRED TO ANOTHER CELL.BUT,THEY ARE ALL MUCH THE SAME AS EACH OTHER. There are only two fans and you can imagine with so many people in the cell it heats up quickly and the smell from sweaty bodies becomes overpowering. “The squat toilet is at the far end of the cell. This has a low wall about two feet

high. Imagine what it would be like if you needed to answer the call of nature during the night and had to clamber over all these bodies.

MORE ON THE WEB:

www.thaiprisonlife.com

Thursday, March 20, 2008

blog buster

Falling in love I

just fell in love with my second son, for the thousandth time. I thought I loved him the day he came into this world, but now I know I love him more today.

Sometimes, when you have a new-born baby, it’s not like you fall in love with him just like that ... it takes time ... you need to hug him ... hold him ... feed him and change his diapers ... wipe his crap and wash his puke ... you need to smell the unique scent that these babies have, and you need to feel the soft hair on their small heads.

Caterpillar versus butterfly I left Chiang Mai and Thailand a couple of weeks ago.

And now I’m back in Europe, in Copenhagen, working for three months to six months.

There’s nothing to say about the food in Denmark (or Sweden or Norway).

There was an immigrant in Sweden, when asked about Swedish food, his comment was: The Swedes, they only eat spaghetti and bread, we, the immigrants, eat proper food: meat, fish, vegetables.

Still, compared with England they eat good food in Scandinavia ... Anyway, every town in Sweden has a Thai restaurant …

– Posted by talkfact

– Posted by GGrass >> MORE ON THIS BLOG

blog.nationmultimedia.com/ Ggrass

blog.nationmultimedia.com/ jern

PAVEENARAT SITHIPANUPONG

Education divide

Our future?

O

ur kids are our future.

Just couldn’t agree more!

Our future will sure be ... frightening!

Look around and you can spot those teenagers dressing in exactly the same attire, wear exactly the same hair style and make-up and talk in the same rapid and unclear, child-like way.

Worse, when you visit their college. I have a student who came to her final exam about an hour late. The reason: wrong hair colour! She was disappointed with her new hair colour so she couldn’t leave home. Another guy missed too many classes, so when he came I asked him why. The answer: waking up late. Well, it’s a one-o’clockin-the-afternoon class!

Injecting more money and allocating a bigger budget to the education sector is important, but it may not hold the key to successful education policy-making. Overcoming the educational divide in our country is a much more important objective.

Bangkok people always tend to hold that the political problems in the country stem from the rural poor and the uneducated masses. Yet what they forget is that the government spends about Bt3,000 per year on education per student in the Northeast, while it spends an average Bt15,000 per head in Bangkok...

– Posted by MaxHeadroom

blog.nationmultimedia.com/ maxheadroom

Going to the US

>> MORE ON THIS BLOG

I got an opportunity from my university to go study for a second bachelor’s degree at southern New Hampshire for 14 months.

Anyway, this would be my first trip studying abroad. I am worried so much about if I can understand all lessons in classes. Even though going to the US is good news for me, there are lots of things I have to prepare. Anybody have any suggestions?

– Posted by Tow

blog.nationmultimedia.com/ kobb

blog.nationmultimedia.com/ jirawitawit

– Posted by Kobb

BLOGGERS 11

DAILY XPRESS

GO CRAZY OVER

ULTIMATE FRISBEE

By Naive

A

few years ago, a foreigner friend told me he was playing “Ultimate Frisbee” as a weekend sport.

I was curious, so I decided to see them play once.

I googled Ultimate Frisbee and found the website, www.soidawgz.com, saying: “Ultimate is played weekly here in Bangkok by a group of foreigners and Thais who just love the sport!

“If you are an Ultimate player passing through Bangkok, you are more than welcome to play pick-up with us.”

I didn’t have activities to do on Sundays. So I joined the team. I came to know a bit more about the game and fit it in my weekend schedule.

Many people doubt that we’re really in love with the sport. Ultimate Frisbee is not just a sport. It can be anything from a lifestyle to rules of life.

,,

ULTIMATE IS PLAYED WEEKLY HERE IN BANGKOK BY A GROUP OF FOREIGNERS AND THAIS WHO LOVE THE SPORT! IF YOU ARE AN ULTIMATE PLAYER PASSING THROUGH BANGKOK,YOU ARE MORE THAN WELCOME TO PLAY WITH US

We can match teams by email and meet each other in the field when we have a tournament. Beer after the game. The tournament par-

ties are always fun and we have dress-up themes.

Many people new to Bangkok meet friends this way.

>> MORE ON THIS BLOG: blog.nationmultimedia.com/naive

12

NEWS

Thursday, March 20, 2008

THE WORLD

DAILY XPRESS

10,000 The number of couples every year that get a marriage licence but never use it

AFP

Angela Merkel, German chancellor, right, meets Israeli President Shimon Peres, in Jerusalem. Merkel expressed deep regret over the Nazi Holocaust.

WA R M I N G T I E S

O B I T U A RY

GERMANY, ISRAEL EDGE CLOSER Angela Merkel becomes the first German chancellor to speak in Israeli parliament T H E G U A R D I A N , Jerusalem

A

ngela Merkel, Germany’s chancellor, told Israel’s parliament on Tuesday that the Holocaust filled her people with shame and promised a closer relationship with the Jewish state.

About 1,000 people gathered in the Knesset in Jerusalem to hear the speech and gave Merkel a standing ovation. Five MPs stayed away in protest, saying they did not want to hear German in the Knesset.

Merkel, 53, was the first German chancellor to be invited to address the parliament and spoke directly about the Nazi legacy.

“The mass murder of 6 million Jews, carried out in the name of Germany, has brought indescribable suffering to the Jewish people, Europe and the entire world,” she said.

“The Shoah fills us with shame,” she said, using the Hebrew word for the Holocaust. “I bow to the vic-

tims. I bow to all those who helped the survivors.”

During her three-day visit, Merkel and Ehud Olmert, Israel’s prime minister, reached an agreement on joint investment, military cooperation and research projects.

Officially her visit has been a major undertaking, with the German flag flown over the Knesset building and a joint session of the Israeli and German cabinets in Jerusalem.

Israel’s press has said little on the warming ties, though it appears to signal a new engagement between the countries.

Arthur C Clarke, sci-fi pioneer dies D P A , Colombo

V

isionary science fiction writer, Sir Arthur C Clarke, who won worldwide acclaim with more than 100 books on space, science and the future, died yesterday in Sri Lanka. He was 90.

The English writer – who died in Colombo, his home since 1956 – was regarded as far more than a science fiction writer. Many of the physicist and mathematician’s ideas and theories became reality.

He was knighted in 1989.

“Life is just one big banana,” Clarke wrote. “Science fiction allows us all to peel open the reality and discover the yellow truth inside.”

XTRA LIFE OF A VISIONARY >> Clarke first envisioned using geostationary satellites for telecommunications. >> He co-wrote the 1968 film “2001: A Space Odyssey”. >> His non-fiction work earned him honours from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

JACKIE CHAN and Jet Li are having so much fun working together on “The Forbidden Kingdom” that they have decided to make another movie after it.

A RT S U T R A

Record price for Japanese sculpture An 800-year-old statue of the Buddha fetches $14.3 million at a New York auction A F P , New York

A

wooden sculpture of the supreme Buddha sold for more than US$14.3 million (Bt445.48 million) in New York on Tuesday, far exceeding presale estimates and setting a new record for a work of Japanese art.

The 800-year-old depiction of the Dainichi Nyorai, attributed to the sculptor Unkei, was

NEWS 13

DAILY XPRESS

bought by the Japanese department store chain Mitsukoshi, shattering the pre-sale estimates for the work of $1.5 million to $2.5 million.

The record price “is a testament to the extreme importance and beauty of this supreme Buddha and elevates Japanese art to a new record level,” said Katsura

CARLA BRUNI, France’s first lady, blasted a journalist for reporting that her husband Nicolas Sarkozy had asked his ex-wife Cecilia to come back.

Yamaguchi, Christie’s director of Japanese and Korean Art. The seated figure of the supreme Buddha of the esoteric pantheon is made out of Cypress wood and was described by Christie’s as being in fine condition. The artist, believed to be Unkei, was one of the greatest carvers of the early Kamakura period.

The statue is believed to have come from a temple, later becoming part of a prominent family collection.

However, its existence was unknown to wider circles until it was later sold to a Buddhist dealer and bought by the seller.

The figure contains three dedicatory objects sealed inside the torso including two five-stage pago-

,,

IT IS A TESTAMENT TO THE BEAUTY OF THIS BUDDHA AND ELEVATES JAPANESE ART TO A NEW RECORD LEVEL Katsura Yamaguchi

das, one in wood and one in crystal, as well as a crystal ball supported by a bronze stand.

14

THE WORLD

Thursday, March 20, 2008

briefly

DAILY XPRESS

Floods lash

United States

Oscar-winning director Anthony Minghella dies

papers also ran front-page apologies. – AFP

In Spain, entry into secondary school is based on a points system. Judges in Seville believe that some parents are divorcing just to earn two extra points to get their offspring into the top schools.

The courts saw a dramatic rise in the divorce rate just as school places were being decided.

– Guardian News Service

Long-term sea ice shrinks in Arctic

China rights groups criticise Hu’s trial Human rights organisations yesterday criticised the trial of Chinese dissident Hu Jia, saying his lawyers were prevented from properly defending him.

The lawyers had only 20 minutes during the four-hour trial to present their case and were often cut-off by court officials, China Human Rights Defenders said. Also Hu’s relatives and observers were barred from the proceedings. – DPA

Despite a cold winter in the Arctic, the oldest and thickest sea ice there continues to shrink, NASA officials said on Tuesday.

The colder-than-average winter lead to an increase in new sea ice, but global warming has caused the amount of so-called perennial ice to shrink to about 10 per cent less than last year, the National Snow and Ice Data Centre said. – DPA

Koreans turn off TV, turn on to spouses Residents of a small South Korean island turned on to their wives after turning off their televisions for three weeks in an unusual social experiment, a report said on Tuesday.

All 28 residents of Darang island agreed to take part in the experiment and surveillance cameras were set up in each home to avoid backsliding, Dong-A Ilbo reported.

The vast majority said later that their lives had become much richer, with more time for conversation with spouses, reading and religious activities. – DPA

Couple buys pram with deadly surprise British papers give donations, apologies Two British newspapers apologised yesterday to the parents of missing toddler Madeleine McCann for suggesting they were to blame and made a donation to a fund set up to find her, a spokesman said.

The Daily Express and the Daily Star gave £550,000 (Bt34.2 million) to the fund, The

A German couple who bought a second-hand pram for their new baby were surprised to discover a pistol in its side-pocket and police said yesterday they were puzzled how it got there.

The couple bought the pram in an online auction and were cleaning it when they found the loaded 9mm-calibre pistol.

Police searched the Hamburg home of the vendor in vain. He said he had no idea the pistol was there. – DPA

AP

Fake divorces can get kids into good school

Torrential rain caused widespread flooding in Missouri on Tuesday, leaving hundreds homeless. Nearly 200 roads were closed and propane tanks and debris spiraled down lowlands turned into rivers.

ELECTION FORECAST

TAIWAN VOTE IS ALL IN THE STARS Fortune tellers differ in predictions for Saturday’s presidential polls A F P , Taipei

I

f Taiwan’s assorted feng shui experts and fortunetellers have it right, Saturday’s presidential election will depend on yin, yang and the energy force of life, not the economy and ties with China.

Any sign of level pegging when it comes to fate would likely be good news for Frank Hsieh, last spotted in an opinion poll lagging 20 points behind the opposition Kuomintang’s Ma Ying-jeou.

Lin Yun, a feng shui master, said Hsieh and his running mate Su Tseng-chang were strong in Chi – the vital energy force of life.

“They have a fair chance to win the election if they work closely with each other.

Otherwise, it looks like a narrow victory for Ma,” he said.

Popular TV horoscope expert Vivian predicted Ma and Hsieh had roughly equal chances of winning.

“Ma, a Cancerian, enjoys cordial interpersonal relations this year among his peers,

,,

If fortune tellers have it right, the election will depend on whether Ma’s ‘water’ quenches Hsieh’s ‘fire’.

THE RAT YEAR SIGNALS CHANGES FOR MA AND HIS LUCK IS SET TO IMPROVE Jenny Lin which are helpful for those running for office,” she said.

“Hsieh, a Taurean, can appeal to more young people in the final stretch of his campaign to boost his chances, along with the help of Su,

AFP

Tributes poured in yesterday for Anthony Minghella, the British film-maker best known for the Oscar-winning 1996 film “The English Patient”, who died at the age of 54.

The writer and director, whose other box office hits include “The Talented Mr Ripley” and “Cold Mountain”, was known for adaptations of novels.

He died of a haemorrhage after an operation for a growth on his neck, his agent said. – AFP

who’s in luck as a Leo,” she said. She said Ma should wear blue and Hsieh gold.

Feng shui expert Jenny Lin, however, saw victory for Ma because 2008 is the Chinese Year of the Rat. “The rat year signals big changes for Ma, who was born in the Year of the Tiger and his luck is set to improve,” Lin said. Hsieh, born in the Year of the Dog, should watch out for “sneaks” in his midst, she said.

“Ma is the ‘metal’ type,” Lin said. “He is conservative.

Hsieh has a fire temperament and is smart, aggressive and impatient. But this year is symbolised by ‘water’ element – and water puts out fire.”

Thursday, March 20, 2008

THE WORLD 15

DAILY XPRESS

Go vegan to ease arthritis T H E G U A R D I A N , London

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XTRA PA I N F U L FA C T S >> Rheumatoid arthritis affects about 350,000 people in the UK. >> It is more common in women than men. >> It can afflict people of any age. >> At present there is no cure, although the disease can be slowed down if diagnosed early.

Unusual

love songs

EPA

Indian tribals play music during the Bhagoria fair, an annual festival in Madhya Pradesh, India, where members of the community mingle freely and choose their life partner.

N Y S E X S CA N DA L

Japan appoints its first cartoon ambassador

SPITZER GIRL HAS ‘WILD’ HISTORY Teenage cameo on “Girls Gone Wild” costs Dupre a million bucks A P , Los Angeles

T

he call girl linked to former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer had already shed her clothes for the “Girls Gone Wild” video series as an 18-year-old while partying in Miami, the company’s founder said on Tuesday.

Joe Francis had reached out to Ashley Alexandra Dupre, now 22, with an offer of US$1 million (Bt31.15 million) to appear in a non-nude spread for his company’s new magazine, plus a chance to join the “Girls Gone Wild” tour bus, his company said.

But Francis said someone tipped him off at a staff meeting: Did anyone think to check the archives?

They did, he said – and there she was.

“It will save me a million bucks,’’ Francis said. “It is kind of like finding a winning

,, IT IS KIND OF LIKE FINDING A WINNING LOTTERY TICKET IN THE CUSHIONS OF YOUR COUCH Joe Francis

Ashley Alexandra Dupre features in the “Girls Gone Wild” archives.

AP

heumatoid arthritis patients may be able to improve their symptoms by switching to a vegan and gluten-free diet, a study in Sweden has found.

The researchers’ findings were based on a study group of 30 patients who were affected by the disease.

“I think it is a quite unexpected and interesting finding,” said professor Johan Frostegard at the Karolinska Institutet rheumatology unit in Stockholm, who led the study. “The effects on the immune system are quite new.”

Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the immune system attacking the lining of the patient’s joints, causing them to become inflamed and painful.

Over time the damage can restrict movement.

Over a year Frostegard followed 30 patients who kept up the new diet for at least three months and 28 on a normal diet, monitoring the progress of the disease and levels of various chemicals in the blood.

By the end of the study the vegans had a modest improvement in the number of swollen joints.

There was also a large drop in the level of a chemical in the blood called CRP, which doctors use to measure inflammatory activity in the body. There was no significant improvement in the group who ate a normal diet.

At the same time, the vegans developed a lower body mass index, had lower levels of bad cholesterol and higher levels of immune system factors that fight inflammation.

lottery ticket in the cushions of your couch.”

Francis said at that point, his offer was off the table: “We actually had been dealing with her rep,’’ he said. “Our [offer] was the real deal. We just never made the connection.’’

He said his employees planned to offer the footage on the website by Tuesday evening, with a free sampling on the front page and the rest available with a $29.95 monthly subscription.

Japan has created an unusual government post to promote animation and named a perfect figure yesterday to the position: Doraemon.

Foreign Minister Masahiko Komura appointed the popular cartoon robot cat as “anime ambassador,” handing a human-sized Doraemon doll an official certificate at an inauguration ceremony, along with dozens of “dorayaki” red bean pancakes – his favourite dessert – piled on a huge plate.

Komura told the doll that he hoped he would widely promote anime.

Doraemon – through voice actress Wasabi Mizuta, who spoke from behind a sliding paper screen – promised Komura that “through my cartoons, I hope to convey to people abroad what ordinary Japanese people think, our lifestyles and what kind of future we want to build”.

– AP

OPINION

THURSDAY 20.03.2008 EDITORIAL

BE SAFE; JUST DON’T GET BITTEN DURING DAYTIME Keep those water containers covered, stay away from mosquito breeding grounds and look out for every rash you might develop – it just may be a strain of dengue fever

XPRESS

DAILY

16

Editor: Tulsathit Taptim Managing Editor: Thanong Khanthong Deputy Managing Editors: Kumar Krishnan, Jintana Panyaarvudh Design Editor: Leroy A Sylk Web Co-Editors: Marisa Chimprabha, Paisal Chuenprasaeng The City Editor: Chularat Saengpassa The Fun Editor: Veena Thoopkrajae Politics Editor: Kittipong Thavevong Opinion Editor: Thana Poopat Sport Editor: Preechachan Wiriyanupappong Group Editor in Chief: Suthichai Yoon

DIVIDED OVER ARMS It’s that single sentence in the Second Amendment to the US Constitution that is confusing Washington courts – should guns be banned or not?

L

AP

ast year, Southeast Asia was hit hard by outbreaks of dengue fever, a disease transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that are active during daytime. Thailand had more than its fair share of fatalities with scores of deaths out of the tens of thousands of people infected with the deadly virus.

This year, the situation is expected to be no less serious.

Already, Thailand and Indonesia have reported more than 5,000 people infected, of whom 41 have already died. This is quite unusual as the spread of dengue fever does not normally start until the beginning of the rainy season in May. Though the disease is curable, misdiagnosis and lack of timely treatment is the reason for deaths. The problem is that the symptoms of dengue fever are just like flu: fever and joint pain. However, the more tell-tale signs are an angry rash, nausea and splitting headaches.

If left untreated, patients may develop dengue haemorrhagic fever, which causes massive internal bleeding and circulatory failure.

Dengue fever is particularly difficult to deal with for several reasons. Firstly, no vaccine has been found for any of the four strains. Secondly, the mosquitoes that carry the virus multiply in all conditions.

In the past, incidences of dengue fever coincided with the rainy season, because puddles, discarded plastic bags or tin cans became breeding grounds.

Now, however, these dangerous mosquitoes may be breeding anywhere – even indoors, inside something as innocuous as a vase filled with water.

Once an outbreak is detected, the only thing that health officials can do is keep an eye on things and try to contain it by offering to fumigate people’s houses, warning them to keep their water containers and getting rid of any mosquito breeding areas.

It is not clear why dengue fever, a seasonal disease in this part of the world, has suddenly become a huge problem in recent years.

Some blame it on global warming, while others point to unplanned urbanisation in Southeast Asia, which has led to a proliferation of slums and shantytowns where people have no access to running water and instead store it in uncovered or inadequately covered containers.

So, really, the best prevention against dengue fever would be to avoid getting bitten by mosquito, particularly those that go hunting during the day.

OPINION 17

OTHER VOICES

Obama plays ‘race card’

Safety first

The Los Angeles Times

Jakarta Post

It may have begun as an exercise in political damage control, but Barack Obama’s speech in Philadelphia on “A More Perfect Union” was that rarity in American political discourse: a serious discussion of racial division, distrust and demonization.

Whether or not the speech defuses the controversy about some comments by Obama’s longtime pastor, it redefines the US national conversation about race and politics and lays down a challenge to the cynical use of the “race card”. This is the sort of language that is seldom heard in stump speeches by politicians of any race.

By Chris Cermak DPA, Washington

I

t began as a lively debate over a single sentence in the US Constitution, but a landmark Supreme Court case could have a huge impact on gun control legislation across the United States.

The US has some of the most liberal gun law in the Western world. Most states and cities allow citizens to own weapons, including handguns, and more than one in four people keep a gun at home.

The American capital is one of only two cities that has banned the possession of handguns outright in a bid to reduce the city’s spiralling violent crime rate.

The Supreme Court heard a case on Tuesday brought by a resident who wants that ban overturned, and justices appeared sharply divided over whether to strike down the 1976 Washington law.

Gun control has long been one of the most intense topics on the US political scene.

It has been nearly 70 years since the nine-member Supreme Court considered rights to gun ownership in the US, and never has it explicitly ruled on whether the Constitution guarantees all individuals the right to own and carry weapons.

Seeking protection Gun owners argue they have the right to protect themselves from criminals, who find a way to get guns regardless of the law.

They point to the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, passed in 1791, which allowed states to form their own militias to defend themselves against federal government tyranny and internal rebellions.

Lawyers and justices spent about two hours scrutinising the one sentence that makes up the Second Amendment: “A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.”

The decision by low-cost carrier Adam Air to temporarily stop all its flights until further notice deals a strong blow to the aviation industry – notably the reputation of budget airlines.

Adam Air says the decision came after the company failed to reach an agreement with insurers. It cited regulations requiring that all operational aircraft carry insurance.

While we shop for rock-bottom airfares, we should pay heed to airline safety records before making a decision on which airline to fly.

Welcome to the wacky world of tipping

By Peter Preston THE GUARDIAN, London

I

n the wacky world of gratuities, it’s hard to know how much to give to whom.

We need standards.

If it’s Monday, it must be Belgium: so reckon to leave 10 per cent on the brasserie plate.

Tomorrow, in France, we’ll do service compris, though a few euros more may reward an unlikely smile and a spurt of speed.

Mid-week pointer Wednesday? Spain, where those who run restaurants themselves insist that 3 per cent or 4 per cent is quite enough.

Thursday means Switzerland, and you only need to round up the bill, whereupon Friday offers two choices to finish the week: fly to Denmark, where no extra at all is expected, or out to

Argentina, where even the thought of it breaks the law.

Welcome to the wonderfully wacky world of tipping.

And the trouble is it doesn’t get better – especially in the great land of conspicuous mystification.

Read the fine print When I first visited America, it was duly explained to me that waiters got peanuts, so diners were a kind of honorary aid givers.

Have mercy!

Give at least 15 per cent in

such pitiful circumstances.

But now, as you read the menu in a penny plain roadside grill, there’s some very small print under the entry for key-lime pie. “To assist our international guests,” it reads, “an 18 per cent gratuity will be added to their bill”.

When that thus-assisted bill turns up, moreover, the slip has the line marked “Tip” still left open. Eighteen per cent is only a start.

It’s not that Americans tip waiters because they are

paid so little, says one gastro-guru in the Wall Street Journal: “They are paid so little because they can expect to make up the difference in tips.”

And this isn’t, as the melee of contradiction across Europe attests, just a particular American peculiarity.

If you don’t know where the tip is going – to an individual, a cooperative, or straight into the owner’s pocket – there’s no clear message and thus no fair sanction.

Clean coal? It’s just a green scam

By George Monbiot THE GUARDIAN

C

leaner technology is possible, but Britain’s ruling Labour party plans to introduce it so slowly that any benefits will be lost in higher coal output “Coal is so clean and fresh that the prime minister brushes his teeth with it,” said the Downing Street, London.

Gordon Brown said ad-

vances in coal technology meant it was now one of the cleanest substances on Earth.

So says the satirical website the Daily Mash.

The real claims are scarcely battier.

British ministers are about to decide whether to approve a new coal-burning power station at Kingsnorth in Kent, south east of London.

This would be the first

such plant to be built in Britain since 1986.

Is there such a thing as clean coal?

Clean coal’s definition changes according to whom the industry is lobbying.

Sometimes it means more efficient power stations – which still produce almost twice as much carbon dioxide as gas plants.

Sometimes it means removing sulphur dioxide from

the smoke, which boosts CO2. Sometimes it means carbon capture and storage: stripping the carbon out of the exhaust gases, piping it away and burying it in geological formations.

None of these equate to clean coal. But they create a marvellous amount of confusion in the public mind, which gives the government a chance to excuse the inexcusable.

18 ENTERTAINMENT

Thursday, March 20, 2008

THE FUN

DAILY XPRESS

APICHATPONG WEERASETHAKUL ON THE CENSORSHIP OF HIS FILM, ‘SYNDROMES AND A CENTURY’

“I would prefer to have feedback from the audience on whether it is bad or good, suitable or not, rather than having only a small group of people say that.”

CINEMA SCENE

TEENAGE LOVE, ACTUALLY

,,

A new romantic comedy explores the highs – and lows – of over-excited hormones during summer vacation

By Parinyaporn Pajee D A I LY X P R E S S

W

COURTESY OF GMM TAI HUB

Director Songyos Sugmakanan with actress Focus Jeerakul in a set-up for a scene in ‘Hormones’.

XTRA FA M I L I A R , U M , FA C E ? >> Former porn star Sora Aoi plays the tourist on the train.

Because a lot of Thai men will have seen her X-rated videos and photos, studio GMM Tai Hub avoided potential scandal by omitting her name in promotional materials. But the Japanese actress is in the preview trailers, and now that GTH has confirmed the rumour, the studio is trying to bring her back to Thailand to promote the film.

>> Taiwanese superstar Jerry F4 was sought play the object of Oh Lek’s affections, but he was unavailable. The role went to Taiwanese actor Lu Ting Wei.

ith “Pid Term Yai Huajai Wawun” (“Hormones”) focusing on four romances, viewers could be forgiven for thinking that the new comedy is little more than a teenage version of “Love Actually”.

But director Songyos Sugmakanan, who was behind the hit ghost drama “Dek Hor” (“Dorm”), is quick to point out the differences.

“I was inspired by the format of ‘Love Actually’, but love in Asian society can’t be compared to relationships in a Western culture, so ‘Hormones’ is different at the core,” he says.

Pu and Mai (Charlie Trairat and Sirachat Jianthavaorn) are competing to win the heart of Nana (Angsumalin Siraphatsakmetha) while geeky guy Jo (Ratchu Surajaras) is in love with the most popular girl on campus, Cee (Chutima Theepanat). Oh Lek (Focus Jeerakul) is crazy about a Taiwanese singer, and slacker dude Hern (Chanthavit Sunasewee) forgets about his girlfriend after meeting a cute Japanese tourist (Sora Aoi).

Harder than drama >> Several GTH regulars appear, including Maneerat Khum-aun (“Dear Dakanda”), Vithavas Singlamphong (“Seasons Change”), the students from “Final Score” and the cast of “Lucky Loser”.

Sora Aoi

All of the characters learn something from their experiences during summer vacation.

“Whatever the results of the relationships at this age, in the end it’s really just the beginning of their lives,” says Songyos. “My advice is not to

LOVE IN ASIAN SOCIETY CAN’T BE COMPARED TO RELATIONSHIPS IN A WESTERN CULTURE, SO ‘HORMONES’IS DIFFERENT AT THE CORE. Songyos Sugmakanan, director of ‘Hormones’

take it seriously. Love has so many more conditions when you’re grown up.

“But making a light-hearted romance is so much harder than drama. These teenagers may be stars, but they don’t have much experience in life, so they found it hard to play some scenes.”

While Songyos doesn’t expect every scene to ring true, he believes viewers will identify with at least one of the characters.

“Pid Term Yai Huajai Wawun” opens today in cinemas.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

46

ENTERTAINMENT 19

DAILY XPRESS

NAKED EYE

COUNTRIES are represented at the 32nd Hong Kong International Film Festival, which is running until April 6.

Sermkhun Kunawong blends his passions for photography and sculpture in his first show. >Page 20

In the soup

COURTESY OF JIM THOMPSON HOUSE

Thai and Japanese artists compare traditional with contemporary in the exhibition ‘Tomyam Pladib’ at the Jim Thompson Art Centre. See Yasumasa Morimura’s self-portrait montage, including “An Inner Dialogue with Frida Kahlo (Fairy Tale)”, left, Yoshitomo Nara’s drawings of children with mischievous grins, Apichatpong Weerasethakul’s video installation ‘Morakot’ and much more. ‘Tomyam Pladib’ runs until June 5. Call (02) 612 6741 or see www.JimThompsonHouse.com.

Light’s out for Sirita Sirita Jensen is using her “Earth Hour” radio show on Cool 93 Fahrenheit to chill down global warming.

She’s asking lisSirita teners to turn off their electricity for an hour from 8pm on March 29. The World Wildlife Fund and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration are behind the idea. “It will be a page in history,” says the actress. More than 20 cities worldwide will take part, she says.

Rangsit proud of its celebrities SOOPSIP By veenxpress@gmail.com

Elect one,get two as a bonus HEADING A GOVERNMENT ministry is naturally a drain on family ties, but Energy Minister Poonpirom Liptapanlop – who’s popularly known as Madame Ting – has had plenty of family company since she joined Samak Sundaravej’s Cabinet. Her hubby Suwat has got to be a go-to guy for Poompirom, since he’s been there and done that, but the real bonus is having her daughter Proudput around. Now free from her studies in England, Proudput has flown back home to be with her mum, so if you see a pretty young lady walking around with Madame Ting, that’s no ordinary assistant.

A LT E R N AT I V E M U S I C

Homage to Lou Indie rockers Momoko and Gene pay tribute to the Velvet Underground frontman in a show at Lam Morrison’s place in Pattaya D A I LY X P R E S S

Some sort of American civil war

COURTESY OF BEC-TERO ENTERTAINMENT

HARRY CONNICK JR treated his Bangkok audience to a lot of good gags on Monday night, but a couple of the zingers soared over most people’s heads. Was he kidding or not when he alluded to US Ambassador Eric John, who was in the crowd? “Ambassador John is very nice,” Connick said. “His wife Sofia is also nice. But their children are ugly.” Even people who knew that the singer had been a guest at the ambassador’s residence on Sunday were taken by surprise. Then Harry mentioned John’s kids a second time. Just what went down on Embassy Row the night before? Can’t tell you – it’s a diplomatic secret.

Harry Connick Jr, above,

made cryptic remarks about US Ambassador Eric John and his wife, Sofia.

P

roducer Brian Eno is famously credited with the remark that only a few people bought the Velvet Underground’s first album, but every one of them went out and started a rock band.

Tracking the massive influence of the Velvets and their leader, songwriter Lou Reed, to Thailand, Lam Morrison’s Rock Club pays tribute to the American rock legend this weekend, featuring Gene Mahasamut of the garagerock band Saliva Bastards and Momoko Ueda, formerly of electro-clash outfit Futon.

All things Lou will be on the cards – Nico, Warhol, Marianne Faithful, the Exploding Plastic Inevitable, the Chelsea Hotel, you name it – as Gene and Momoko perform songs from the groundbreaking first album “The Velvet Under-

XTRA BRING SWEET JANE >> ‘Walk on the Wild Side’ runs from 9pm today until Sunday. >> Lam Morrison’s Rock Club is in south Pattaya, www.RockClubPattaya.com.

ground and Nico”.

Momoko moved to Bangkok after graduating from the San Francisco Institute of Arts and recently released her debut solo album, “Momokomotion Punk in a Coma”, on Rambutan Records.

Gene, a graduate of the London College of Printing, has starred in movies, most notably the acclaimed “Citizen Dog”, directed by Wisit Sasanatieng.

Actress Patcharapa “Aum” Chaichuea and filmmakers Parkpoom Wongpoom and Thiwa Meyathaisong Patcharapa are among the alumni of Rangsit University’s Faculty of Communication Arts being honoured as outstanding graduates to celebrate its 20th anniversary.

Other success stories are Atchara “Pla” Burarak, who owns the iberry ice-cream company, and Natchanan Chiapanumas, creative director at advertising firm McCann Erickson.

Time for the Olympic Collection Swiss watchmaker Olympus is keeping time with the Beijing Olympic Games, offering a special-edition collection of selfwinding chrono- Patcharapa graphs. Only 2,008 will be made. Race over to the Omega boutique at Siam Paragon to see them. – Daily Xpress

ART

shows The path to divinity The Number 1 Gallery is hosting Chatchawan Rodklongtan’s “The Moral Precept” from March 27 to April 26, a personal account of Buddhist faith and a journey to the essence of life.

Drop by the basement gallery at Silom Galleria Monday to Saturday from 10 to 7. Call (02) 630 3381 or visit www.Number1Gallery.com.

It comes down to colours Feng Zhengjie of China shows his latest paintings in “Radiancy” at the Queen’s Gallery from April 3 to 30.

Feng’s subjects, mostly women, exude an alluring sensuality but come in exaggerated colours that makes them seem unrealistically cool and devoid of true feelings or personality.

The gallery, on Rajadamnoen Klang Road off Phan Fah Bridge, is open daily except Wednesday from 10 to 7.

Call (02) 281 5360-1 or visit www.QueenGallery.org.

Watch the year go by Japan’s Kaz Orii is showing his new abstract oils in “Images Breakdown” at the Akko Gallery until April 10. Drawn from his experience in agriculture, the paintings track the changing seasons.

The gallery, by the Sukhumvit Soi 49 bus stop, is open Monday to Saturday from 10 to 7 and Sunday by appointment. Call (02) 259 1436 or visit www.AkkoArt.com.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

DAILY XPRESS

THE GLITZ

THE SCULPTED TORSO Art collector Sermkhun Kunawong helps us appreciate the three dimensions better with his contrast-rich nude photographs

By Khetsirin Pholdhampalit DAILY XPRESS

S

ermkhun Kunawong, the chief executive at CM Organiser and the man behind the Bangkok Sculpture Centre, has organised chiselled features of a different kind in the multimedia show “Symbol, Stream, Stone and Surrender”.

Continuing until Monday, it’s part of The Glitz, the luxurious-lifestyle extravaganza at Siam Paragon.

The main focus is 30 highcontrast black-and-white photographs of male and

female nudes, which Sermkhun swears were inspired by Western depictions of Adam and Eve. “S” – as in Sermkhun – hisses into the names of four categories for the photos. The Symbol collection is primarily about male muscle, and Stream has gently refined portraits of both genders. Bodies really do look like sculptures in the Stone series, and the models in the Surrender pictures are tied up with rope.

One photo has a body in the buff perched like Auguste Rodin’s “The Thinker” – a man

in sober meditation undergoing a powerful internal struggle. Several works are reminiscent of the graceful sculptures of Khien Yimsiri and Chamruang Vichienket, who happen to be Sermkhun’s favourite artists. You can see the likeness in the slightly bent heads and the easy sway of the torsos from the neck to the hips.

Sermkhun earned a degree in photography at Chulalongkorn University but his collecting got the better of him, to the point where his Bangkok Sculpture Centre now boasts 202 pieces dating back to 1901.

“I always enjoyed taking photos and admiring every angle of an object,” says the 47-year-old, “but I still wasn’t

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CM ORGANISER

20

fully appreciating threedimensional objects. When I recognised their virtues I started collecting pieces, beginning with traditional hun luang [puppets of the royal court] and hun lakorn lek [miniature puppets], and then sculptures.”

The “multimedia” part of the Glitz exhibition involves collages and 3-D slides, for which viewers must wear polarising glasses.

See the show daily until Monday from 10 to 10 in the Living Gallery on the third floor of Siam Paragon. Call (02) 559 0505 or visit www.TheGlitzBangkok.com.

XTRA COME SEE THE SCULPTURE GARDEN >> Sermkhun started collecting art eight years ago in a bid to learn more about sculpture’s development. He decided to share his passion with the public by opening the Bangkok Sculpture Centre on Soi Nuanchan 56 off Ram-Indra Road. It’s open every second and fourth Saturday. You have to book a viewing, at (02) 559 2364-9, extension 119 or 129, or through www.BangkokSculptureCenter.org.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

SECOND HAND 21

DAILY XPRESS

R O A D S I D E R E TA I L

DAILY XPRESS/ SUPACHAI PETCHTEWEE

NO ONE GOES HOME BLUE For antiques, bargains and bargain antiques, the Ratchada Night Bazaar is almost overwhelming

XTRA

By Pattarawadee Saengmanee D A I LY X P R E S S

PLAN A LONG, LONG EVENING >> The Ratchadapisek Night Bazaar (Ratchada Night Bazaar for short) is open every Saturday from 6pm to 2am

C

ollectors with collections to sell turned the massive park near the Lat Phrao subway station into a lively, narrow, open-air market called the Ratchadapisek Night Bazaar in 2005, and suddenly the place was abuzz with shoppers – and especially car buffs.

Every Saturday night the kilometre-long lane is chocka-block with splendid antiques and collectibles, and many of the 150-plus vendors are selling spare parts for vehicles.

Right at the mouth of the bazaar you can find pieces of cars, trucks and bikes – a lot of them out of the ordinary.

Running lights, steering wheels, tyres and mag wheels are everywhere you look, and the stall run by Niruth Boontin has a lot of vintage

>> You don’t want to miss Niruth Boontin’s motorcycle mart. Call (085) 059 4558.

Suchart Ajaranont’s furniture.

Call (089) 675 1559.

Paisan Samsuwan’s records.

Call (081) 625 4563.

Somyos Rattanapornpis’ cameras. Call (089) 765 6076.

Retro furniture and decor items touted by Suchart Ajaranont. motorcycles, scooters and bicycles in well-known brands.

Folks with no mind for mechanics will move on to the retro furniture and decor items touted by Suchart

Vintage motorcycles at Niruth Boontin’s stall.

Ajaranont. He’s got old wooden cabinets, armchairs, lamps, telephones, radio phonographs and bikes.

A little further along the path are stacks of the old Thai comic book “Kai Hau Rua”, show-business magazines and posters dating back 40 years.

How about some zinc toys, near-forgotten action figures, archaic televisions, wood furniture from upcountry, clackety typewriters or – going way, way back – abacuses?

Photographers make a beeline for Somyos Rattanapornpis’ stall, jammed with classic Zeiss, Ricoh and Minolta cameras, plus old wristwatches and pens.

Music lovers head for Paisan Samsuwan’s dazzling array of rare records by the likes of Rewat “Ter”

Paisan Samsuwan’s rare records.

Bhudhinan, Carabao, the Impossible, Micro, Nok Lae, Grand Ex and Suntraporn, not to mention some great discs by Elton John and Elvis Presley.

What are we missing? Oh, yeah – clothes! There are

tonnes of stylish gear and handmade accessories, plus cosmetics and used sneakers.

Hungry? Grab a traditional Thai dessert and an iced luk tan loy kaew – date palm with syrup.

22

HEALTH & FITNESS

quick shots

Thursday, March 20, 2008

DAILY XPRESS

The milk of kindness A Thai paediatrician comes up with a chickenbased formula for babies allergic to cow’s milk

By Sirinya Wattanasukchai D A I LY X P R E S S

Home away from home Manarom Hospital 9 Sukhumvit 70/3 Bang Na

Are you worried about leaving your elderly parents home alone? Manarom Hospital has launched the “Together We Care” service to take care of elders while you’re away on holiday. It runs through the end of June, offering activities designed to reduce loneliness for older people. The current service includes day programmes and weekend stays.

Call (02) 725 9595.

The robot gets it right Bumrungrad International Hospital

To reduce medication errors during dispensing and administration, Bumrungrad International has put a “Pharmacy Robot” in charge of completing the packaging, storing and dispensing system for patient orders. Using bedside verification codes, a nurse scans the barcode of the patient and the automated drugmanagement system works as a pharmacist to ensure that the five rights – right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, and right time – are met.

anokporn Laoruttanakomut was feeling desperate. Her twomonthold son was unable to sleep for longer than 15 minutes and had been suffering from nonstop diarrhoea for five weeks. The doctors had prescribed various medications but even after hospitalisation, her son was showing no signs of improvement.

“Many paediatric doctors don’t find the cause of the problem,” says Dr Pipop Jirapinyo, head of Paediatrics at Siriraj Hospital, who has invented a formula made from chicken meat.

Children with an allergy to the proteins in cow’s milk can present with a variety of symptoms, such skin rashes, diarrhoea and phlegm.

“Anything that goes on for five days should be considered,” Pipop says. “Colic in babies may also be a sign.”

Of the 800,000 babies born in Thailand every year, some 20,000 are allergic to cow’s milk. Some are also allergic to breast milk thanks to cow’s milk in their mothers’ diets.

And the number is rising every year, says Pipop. Some can be fed such alternatives as soymilk and costly imported

pros

By Prof Dr Supakorn Rojananin

Siam Discovery Centre

SPECIAL TO

connect QUICK SHOTS at contactsirinya@gmail.com

amino acid based milk but sometimes these cannot be substituted.

“Old medical textbooks mention that chicken broth provides all necessary proteins for infants if milk cannot be taken,” says Pipop.

His special formula is made from chicken breast strips, boiled and blended under a

ask the

The best pillows in town Parker & Morgan pillows might just be an insomniac’s dream.

The new Windsor Royal Comfort is two pillows in one, specially designed for allergy sufferers and restless sleepers.

Another invention is the triangular Wedge Pillow, which elevates the head and chest of those who suffer from acid reflux. Call (02) 251 5930.

DAILY XPRESS/ THANIS SUDTO

K

D A I LY X P R E S S

A

friend of mine doesn’t sleep well at night, and she’s gaining weight. Why is this? Is there a connection between insomnia and diabetes?

There are many factors that deprive us of sufficient, quality sleep, including time limitations, insomnia, sleep apnoea, physical or psychological causes and environmental problems.

In 2004 University of

sterilised manufacturing process. The decadelong experiment has proved effective in lowering not just the cost but also the risk of allergies later in life.

Out of more than 100 babies given the formula, 70 per cent recovered from the allergy in one year with the remainder taking between two and five

years. After being treated, these children will be able to eat all types of protein including cow’s milk.

The children’s milk is currently available only at Siriraj Hospital but is now being developed into powder on an industrial scale and should be available nationwide by the end of the year.

Why some people wake up heavier

Chicago researchers studied the effects of sleep deprivation on bloodsugar control in nine healthy young adults, and found that insomnia or sleep problems caused high blood sugar and weight gain and increased the risk of developing diabetes.

All three are interrelated – insomnia, diabetes and weight gain.

The researchers found that interrupting the deepest phase of sleep over and over causes bloodsugar levels to rise more than expected. The pancreas needs to send out extra insulin

to bring the level back into line.

This is similar to what happens to most people with Type 2 diabetes.

At the same time, body weight tends to rise as the higher insulin levels push more sugar and more calories back into cells.

Then, the cells in the body stop responding so effectively to the insulin. This means that the pancreas needs to make even more insulin to drive the blood sugar into cells. Weight increases even more. Insulin levels keep rising, but bloodsugar levels rise even faster.

The results are usually weight gain, insulin resistance and higher and higher bloodsugar levels. This often leads to diabetes.

XTRA Prof DrSupakorn Rojananin

is chairman of the Department of Surgery in the Faculty of Medicine at Mahidol University’s Siriraj Hospital. >> Your questions related to health are welcome at contactsirinya@gmail.com.

SOCIETY 23

Thursday, March 20, 2008 DAILY XPRESS

nders mong lisa l h g i h r ed a t fo s o o 0,000 rais Dek Doi Fund, 0 b t1 l B a te a c n A musi and Seed 97.5 FM DJstodoa representative onf -gthoevernmental rt the no te songs Sajjakul Teerapat sting their favouri money will suppo rn Thailand. e e u he h teners req irror Art Group. T of hilltribes in nort M lf e a part of th ’s efforts on beh on organisati

nrad Count on the Cmounications chief Wannapa Rakkeo, lefic t,

ketingcom , and publ Conrad Hotel mar rdrit, second right Le fa um Au er ag man kdhanasombat, human-resources er Nannadda Supa ag an m ns io ot ve&Share event to relations and prom the hotel staff’s Lo in d ise ra to support ey on m s Coalition on Aids right, donate es sin Bu nd la ai the Th representatives of ith HIV and Aids. w g in liv rs te youngs

Tuned up for wedded bliss

Singers Nop Porn chamni, left, and Somkiet Ariyachaipanich , right, congratulate Worad a Siwapornpitak an d MTV Thailand genera l manager Smith Pienlert at their wedding reception in the Sukhothai Hote l ballroom.

DHC’s olive com plexion DHC (Thailand) pres

ents “Olives – Th ing of its flagshi e Secret to DHC p store in downt Olive Beauty” at own Bangkok – the openParagon – with on the second flo former prime min or of Siam ister General Sura yud Chulanont pr esiding.

petition m o c r a le Office of c la t Crys the government’s ans for a of , ft le nd co se veiling pl , standing Thongyai nference un ML Kathathong ides at a press co es pr t, en ass challenge, pm lo ve e 2008 Martini Gl competition in th of r Product Value De ne in w e orld petition. Th t Thailand in a w glass-design com hire, will represen pp Sa y ba m Bo inspired by ber.

London in Septem

Say hello to Avianceof Aviance Men’s Solution, a new

s the launch ent Infantry Peter Corp Dyrendal attend dquarters of the 11th Regim hea the at ct, du pro re nca men’s ski chairman of Unilever thin Road. Host Loic Tardy, lyo ho Pa on ard Gu g’s Kin ce business associates. male socialites and Avian Thailand, greeted many

24 EVENTS

Thursday, March 20, 2008

DAILY XPRESS

WHAT’S ON/WHAT’S UP see it!

Burma 2007 – Uprising, Crackdown,and Now Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Thailand Penthouse, Maneeya Centre

An evening of travels

Neilson Hays Library

DTC Travel hosts an inform al gathering to introduce a new NHL Tours programme that inc ludes visits to cultural and historic sites, festivals and unique destin ations throughout Thaila nd and Southeast Asia. It will be presented by Tom Bishop , RadioBangkok.net’s “The Travel Bishop”, and head of DTC Travel.

Today, 7 to 9pm. Call (0 2) 233 1731.

A vintage night for tipplers

This exhibition features photographs taken by Burmese citizen-journalists of 2007’s August and September demonstrations calling for freedom and democracy. They are interspersed with scenes of everyday life in the country as well as the beautiful Burmese countryside. Japanese and English translations are provided for the captions. Monday to Friday, 10am to 11pm. Until March 31. Call (02) 652 0580-1.

Ballroom, Four Seasons Hotel

Love is free on Rajdamri

Winemakers from around the world gather to present tipples from the Central Wine Cellar portfolio. Bottles from Australia, France, Germany, the US, Spain, Italy, Argentina, Chile, New Zealand and Thailand will be among more than 400 different wines poured for tasting. Tonight. For tickets, call (02) 937 1612.

www.U-Nee.com.

The Night at Dubsocial The multi-talented frontman of reggae/ska band T-bone takes the reins for Dubsocial, where artists from different disciplines meet for an experimental but distinctively Thai mix of sounds and live poetry performances. The night was launched in January and is now running monthly at Bangkok Code, on South Sathorn Road, about two minutes’ walk from Surasak Skytrain station. Saturday, 7 to 11pm.

Two faces of emotion

and Church of Christ in Thail

(Bt800 for VIPs; Bt2 8pm. Tickets at Bt500 36. by calling (02) 663 32 students) are available

The website www.U-Nee.com is holding a free concert titled “Love U-Nee” (“Love is Here”) and featuring Sony BMG artists Tor+, Ben, Flure and Scrubb. Also appearing will be Mario Maurer from the movie “Love of Siam”. Saturday, 8pm to 10pm. For tickets, visit

King Mongkut’s University of Technology, Thon Buri

Three giants of classical music athewi stop near the Skytrain’s Ratch hestra, soloists and the Orc c oni rm ilha The Siam Ph form tune up in C major to per Orpheus Choir of Bangkok classiese nn Vie composers of the works by the three great ”, ony ph Sym iter e are “The Jup cal era. On the programm ”, um De “Te ’s ydn Ha es; oni symph l the grandest of Mozart’s ora “Ch n’s h; and the Beethove a glorious outpouring of fait nth prequel to the “Ni Fantasy”, an extraordinary ung will conduct. Today at tal Pa na dee Symphony”. Tris 00 for

Bangkok Theatre@Metropolis Big C, Rajdamri Road

Comedy from Japan

Japan Foundation 10th Floor, Sermmit Tow er, Soi

As

oke Japanese comedy films are on the programme this month. The following movies start at 6.30pm and have Thai sub titles. Tomorrow – “Adrenaline Drive”; March 28 – “Fall Guy”. On March 29 at 3pm, “Juven ile Boys Meet Future” will be screened. Call (02 ) 260 8560.

The Pikture Gallery 47/1 Sukhumvit Soi 49

American-born artist Kai Kingsley III uses two distinct styles of painting in an effort to capture the subject of his exhibition “Human Emotion”. Bold and colourful portraits on canvas emerge from spontaneous brushstrokes on handmade paper. Today to April 9, 10am to 7pm. Call (02) 662 8359 or visit www.ThePiktureGallery.com.

for Tea to bow ai House Th Waiting area, the Museum t Centre Jim Thompson Ar

e 102nd anniverTo commemorate th Thompson, the Jim of sary of the birth ntre invites you Jim Thompson Art Ce nese tea-cereto take tea with Japa Boughey. Alex iko m mony specialist Fu pert on Japanese Kerr, an American ex also be on hand to art and culture, will gh this serene guide attendees throu y. English will on and beautiful cerem ultaneous Thai be spoken, with sim w, 5pm. translation. Tomorro

Thursday, March 20, 2008

EVENTS 25

DAILY XPRESS

WHAT’S ON/WHAT’S UP mes o c d o o w y l l o B k to BangCeknto ral Rama III , Major Cineplex

if Ali Khan, ace”, starring Sa “R m fil d oo w Katrina Kaif, The Bolly , Bipasha Basu, or po Ka il An , Akshay Abbas Mustan, and directed by y dd Re ra ee m Sa Saturday at tomorrow and will be screened m. With English ay at 4 and 7p 89) 488 8pm; and Sund ur tickets, call (0 yo ok bo To . es subtitl or visit 225 7500 2620 or (02) dThai.com. oo w www.Bolly

Look out for elephants in Chiang Mai!

do it!

Commart: a door to the future

i Airport Central Plaza, Chiang Ma

za as well Tens of outlets in the pla ewhere in els as leading craft shops than 500 re mo t Chiang Mai presen for rks wo art red spi elephant-in shops any in 0 ,00 Bt3 end sale. Sp a free get in Northern Village, and .

31 rch Ma til elephant gift. Un

Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre

“The Simple Technology for Your Life” is the theme for this exhibition that gives visitors the chance to surf the new wave of gadgets like PDA phones and Pleo robotic dinosaurs. Today to Saturday, 10am to 10pm.

Learn Japanese home cooking Montathip 1, Four Seasons Hotel

Chef Satoshi Sawada will treat food lovers to a hands-on cooking demonstration of the Japanese family-style way of cooking and teach them the basics of preparing a meal. Best of all, you get to eat the results. The fee is Bt2,500. Places are limited. Saturday, 9am to noon. Call (02) 250 1000.

Royal Thai recipes revealed Siam City Hotel

Spice & Rice presents a cooking class by a guru of classic Thai cuisine, Ajaan Wandee Na Songkka, who will cover ingredients, techniques and presentation. The fee is Bt1,400, which includes recipes with illustrations, a coffee and juice break, apron, certificate and lunch made by your own hand.

Guests also receive a 25-per-cent discount on a future lunch at Patummat, Lin-Fa or Kamon.

Saturday, 9am to noon. Call (02) 247 0123.

Makro HoReCa Extravaganza Halls 2 and 3, Impact Muang Thong Thani

This exhibition aimed mainly at the catering trade features culinary competitions, demonstrations, seminars and activities. An array of innovative Makro products and cooking equipment is on sale, too. For information visit www.SiamMakro.co.th.

Tomorrow to Sunday, 10am to 8pm.

A rare treat for feet Siam Discovery mall

Sixty pairs of New Balance sneakers from a limited edition of 576 made in the UK are available in the New Balance shop on the third floor of Siam Discovery. Call (02) 658 0389.

Cocktails on deck Bangkok Marriott Resor t&

Spa

The Manohra Cruise depart s from the hotel’s pier at 6pm for a sunset cocktail hour on the wa ter. As well as the drinks, guests can savour the sights and sou nds of river life. The price of Bt9 00 gets you a welcome drink and one cocktail. Call (02) 477 07 70.

Italian flavours raise the roof Dusit Thani Hotel taurant is holding a Today at 7pm Il Cielo res lian courses for

h six Ita Sangiovese wine dinner wit sit Wine & Dine members Du r fou of up Bt2,500. A gro rUntil Sunday, Easter fou only pay for three meals.

0 ,80 ,800 at Il Cielo and Bt2 course set dinners are Bt1 .

00 90 0 . Call (02) 20 at Hamilton’s Steak House

26 THE SCREEN

Thursday, March 20, 2008

DAILY XPRESS

TO SEE on tv

Salvador Oliver Stone’s compelling drama is based on the real experiences of journalist Richard Boyle in strife-ridden El Salvador of 1980-81. James Woods, Cindy Gibb and James Belushi star.

MGM (TrueVisions), 8pm

Half Past Dead 2 In this sequel to the 2002 film, long-time inmate Twitch (rapper Kurupt) is transferred to a maximum-security prison and has to team up with fellow inmate Burk (WWE star Bill Goldberg) to survive a violent riot.

Cinemax (TrueVisions), 6pm

Pid Term Y Wawun (H ai Huajai ormones) This ensem

Director Wong Kar-wai makes his English-language debut with a story of a young drifter named Elizabeth (Nora Jones) and the people she meets on a crosscountry journey. Jude Law, David Strathairn, Rachel Weisz and Natalie Portman also star.

At Esplanade, Major Ratchayothin, Paragon, SF World, Scala. ★★★

The Family Man

Rambo 4

Jack Campbell (Nicolas Cage) gets a second chance to reclaim love and life with the girl he loved and lost 13 years before. Tea Leoni co-stars.

He didn’t ask for it, he didn’t want it, but Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) once again becomes an upstoppable demon of death as he enters Burma to save some kidnapped missionaries. ★★★

Movie Hits (TrueVisions), 10.50pm

Shutter

ble-cast rom antic comedy by d ire Sugmakana ctor Songyos n te teenage love lls four stories of over the sum mer vacation.

My Blueberry Nights

The Spiderwick Chronicles A lonely boy (Freddie Highmore) leads his twin broth-

I Could Ne ver Be Your Wom an A

In this remake of the hit 2004 Thai film, an American photographer Ben (Joshua Jackson) and his wife Jane (Rachael Taylor) start noticing strange white blurs in their photographs after they are involved in a car wreck that kills a young woman. er and older sister on an adventure after he finds a magical field guide to fairies, sprites and monsters. ★★★

10,000 BC A dreadlocked, dirt-smudged hero (Steven Strait) battles woolly mammoths, angry ostrich-looking things and a sabre-toothed tiger to must rescue the love of his life, the mystical Evolet (Camilla Belle) from the slave raiders who’ve kidnapped her. ★★

The Kite Runner Amir must return to Talebanruled Afghanistan in a dangerous bid to rescue the son of his childhood friend. At the Lido in Dari and English with English and Thai subtitles. ★★★★

Once Winner of the Academy Award

fortysometh (Michelle P ing single mother feif attention o fer) attracts the f a much yo unger man (Paul Rudd ), w daughter (S hile her teenage ao experiencin irse Ronan) is g her first cr ush. At SF.

for best song, this Irish film is a simple story of two artists falling in love. Glen Hansard, lead singer of the Frames, stars a heartbroken Dublin busker who one day meets a charming Czech woman pianist (Marketa Irglova). At the Lido. ★★★★★

Salad Ta Diaw Kab Dek 200 Ta Nine children are lost in a storm, are then pressed into the crew of a pirate captain (Saranyu Wongkrajang) and they battle a rival crew for hidden treasure.

With English subtitles at some cinemas. ★★

Dan in Real Life An awkward love-triangle plays out during a family reunion among a widower (Steve Carell), his slacker brother (Dane Cook) and a woman (Juliette Binoche) who charms them both. At Paragon. ★★

The 8th Day (Paed Wan Plaek Khon) A mentally unstable old woman (Watsana Chalakorn) brings a little girl into her house and then forgets about her, setting off a panic in the neighbourhood. The only person who saw the girl enter Choom’s home is a medical student, who only sits and watches. With English subtitles at some cinemas. ★★★★

The Ghost and Master Bo (Phee Taa Waan Kab Ajarn Taa Bo) Waan (Pansachol Khumpraewpan) is in love with Wit (Weerayuth Naburana).

Problem is, Wit doesn’t know his ladyfriend is a ghost. Medium Ajarn Bo (Jaturong Mokjok) tries to intervene. With English subtitles at some cinemas.

Soul’s Code Newscaster ML Nattakorn “Pleum” Devakula makes his screen debut as Captain Khan, a detective investigating the murder of a woman found dead and naked with some ancient writing engraved on her body. An autopsy reveals her identity leading Khan to believe that the dead woman’s soul is communicating with him. With English subti-

Jor Jai Honest cop Pol Gen Paitoon Permsiriwisan talks about his life and duties, and explains why he pointed the finger at two former commissioners general.

tles at some cinemas.

Channel 5, 10.15pm

The Mist Channel links www.nationchannel.com Channel 3 – www.thaitv3.com Channel 5 – www.tv5.co.th Channel 7 – www.ch7.com ModernNine – www.mcot.net Channel 11 – tv11.prd.go.th Thai PBS – www.thaipbs.or.th True – www.truevisionstv.com

My Blueberry Nights is a romance by Wong Kar-wai starring Norah Jones, left, and Jude Law.

Director Frank Darabont adapts Stephen King’s 1980 short story about a deadly mist that engulfs a small town. There are things in the mist. But it’s what the humans do to each other that’s more likely to shake you to your core. ★★★★

Thursday, March 20, 2008

THE SCREEN 27

DAILY XPRESS

TO SEE

Cinema information Unless otherwise noted, films are playing at most multiplex cinema chains. For showtimes, call the cinemas or check their websites.

on dvd REGION 3

Seat prices in Bangkok cinemas range from Bt80 to Bt500.

The King’s anthem is played before the main programme and it is obligatory to stand as a sign of respect.

Apex Lido: (02) 252 6498 Siam: (02) 251 3508 Scala: (02) 251 2861 www.apexsiam-square.com

ley of Elah In the Val stars as a

Jones n who Tommy Lee ry policema lice ta ili m d re ti po re ith a female teams up w rlize Theron) to ha detective (C sing son, a soldier is m is h h rc t EGV, sea from Iraq. A , d e rn tu re st lex ju ajor Cinep ,M Esplanade ★★★ ★ . n o g Para

P2 Angela (Rachel Nichols) is staying late at work and is the last one out to leave the building, except for creepy carpark attendant Thomas (Wes Bentley) on Level P2. At SF. ★★★

There Will Be Blood An obsessive oilman (Daniel Day-Lewis) will stop at nothing to best his competitors, even at the cost of his own sanity. His ego gushes out of control until he’s sputtering “I drink your

Century – The Movie Plaza (02) 247 9940 www.centurythemovieplaza.com

Bangkok: (02) 515 5555 www.egv.com www.majorcineplex.com

A rebellious street dancer (Briana Evigan) struggles to fit in at an elite arts school, where she meets Chase (Robert Hoffman), the hottest dancer on campus. ★★

milkshake!” At the Lido. ★★✍

★★★

No Country for Old Men A weary sheriff (Tommy Lee Jones) quietly pieces together the case of a deadly drug deal while another man (Josh Brolin) has fled with a satchel of money and a psychopathic hitman (Oscar-winner Javier Bardem) in pursuit. At Emporium, Lido, Paragon. ★★★★★

EGV, Major Cineplex, Esplanade, Paragon

Step Up 2: The Streets

Jumper A young man (Hayden Christensen) has the amazingly cool ability to jump anywhere in the world at any time, just by thinking of where he wants to go. It’s fun until you start wondering: Who is this guy, and how can he do this? ★★★

Kung Fu Dunk A Shaolin-trained martial artist (Jay Chou) joins a basketball team. Thai dubbed with English subtitles at some cinemas.

House

Lions For Lambs Injuries sustained by two US Army rangers behind enemy lines in Afghanistan set off a sequence of events involving a congressman (Tom Cruise), a journalist (Meryl Streep) and a professor (Robert Redford) in Redford’s latest opus. The DVD has English, Hindi and Thai audio and subtitles. Special features include commentary by Redford plus a behind the scenes featurette. The cover price is Bt499 but it retails for less. – Daily Xpress

Closed March 19-23 for “Academy Fantasia” auditions.

UMG RCA: (02) 641 5913-4 www.houserama.com

Major Hollywood Bangkok: (02) 718 7999 www.majorhollywood.co.th

SF Cinema Bangkok: (02) 268 8888 www.sfcinemacity.com

Critical consensus

★★★★★ = Don’t miss! ★★★★ = Solidly entertaining ★★★ = Better than nothing ★★ = Barely watchable ★ = Don’t bother No star rating means no reviews were available from Daily Xpress staff or agencies.

Adam

By Bryan Basset

The Buckets

By Scott Stantis

Pooch Cafe

By Paul Gilligan

Red and Rover

By Brian Basset

By Bill Watterson

Calvin and Hobbes

By John McPherson

Close to Home

28 LEISURE Thursday, March 20, 2008 DAILY XPRESS

Comics&Games

Thursday, March 20, 2008

LEISURE

DAILY XPRESS

29

Games&YourStars SUDOKU

The last word in

ASTROLOGY

By Eugenia Last

Today’s Birthday: Taking on too much or letting others take advantage of your go-getter attitude will cause difficulties as the year progresses. Set your goals and stick to them, refusing to let others disrupt your plans. It’s what you do throughout this year that will bring future rewards.

Monday’s Puzzle Answer

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

Hold back the urge to blurt out the way you feel about things today. Let everyone else voice his or her opinions first. If you find yourself becoming anxious or angry, wait and remain calm.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

You will achieve your goals if you work hard. Open up discussions with knowledgeable people. A new lifestyle, image or way of doing things will make a big impact on those you are trying to impress.

Gemini (May 21-June 21)

Focus on your work, your hobbies and yourself. Do not take on responsibilities that aren’t yours. Put your feelings aside and make a calculated decision regarding who should come first in your life.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

You will realise what you need to do to feel happy and content if you take a look at your past. If you take control and make some alterations to your home, lifestyle and the way you deal with others, it won’t be long before you feel at ease.

DIFFICULTY RATING ★★★★★

Leo (July 23-August 22)

Don’t let anyone meddle in your affairs. Rumors and gossip will lead to relationship problems. Don’t use brute force to try to get someone to join you or do something for you. Use reverse psychology.

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY

Virgo (August 23-Sept 22)

The more you talk, the more you’ll accomplish. Love is on the rise, allowing you to meet someone new or get up-close and personal with someone you are currently with. A great idea will lead to changes at home.

Libra (Sept 23-Oct 22)

You will take what’s being said the wrong way. Back up and listen to someone who has always been in your corner. You may have to do things a little differently to get what you want. Anger does not become you, so don’t go there.

Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21)

Stop procrastinating - if you move forward now, you can clear up any problems with positive results. It’s time to show everyone who’s the boss and how good you are at handling whatever comes your way. You’ll make an impression.

Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21)

Chester Bennington Actor William Hurt is 58.

Drummer Carl Palmer (Emerson, Lake and Palmer) is 58.

Blues guitarist Jimmie Vaughan (Fabulous Thunderbirds) is 57.

Actress Vanessa Bell Calloway is 51.

Director Spike Lee is 51.

Actress Theresa Russell is 51.

Actress Holly Hunter is 50.

Drummer Slim Jim Phantom (Stray Cats) is 47.

Model Kathy Ireland is 45.

Actor David Thewlis (“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban”) is 45.

Actress Liza Snyder (“Yes, Dear”) is 40.

Actor Michael Rapaport (“Boston Public”) is 38.

Actor Alexander Chaplin (“Spin City”) is 37.

Singer Chester Bennington of Linkin Park is 32.

Michael Genadry (“Ed”) is 30.

You may think you are in control but, if you look around, you will see that someone else is pulling the strings. You have to stay on top of what everyone else is doing if you want to be leader. A power play involving money may cause some stress.

Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19)

Do whatever needs to be done to secure your position.

Legal contracts can be drawn up that will satisfy your needs. You can advance because of your expertise, savvy business bravado and your ability to raise funds.

Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18)

Helping others will bring out the best in you. A partnership that can offer you future benefits is in the stars.

Don’t be afraid to tackle something new. You are a fast learner and everyone will help you along the way.

Pisces (Feb 19-March 20)

You can turn today into a very passionate encounter if you put time aside to spend with someone special.

You can make positive and progressive changes at home that will please everyone. Put your emotions upfront and be honest.

30

ROOKIE

Thursday, March 20, 2008

DAILY XPRESS

by the pros

By John Kelly Special to Daily Xpress

You need to buy a present for a friend and you aren’t sure what to get.

I was thinking about this because someone else complained to me that she often receives gifts from a business acquaintance. They tend to be quite expensive but, while the gifts are nice, there is a sense of embarrassment in receiving them, even though the person who gives them is quite wealthy and can easily afford to give them.

Knowing both people, I know there’s no ulterior motive.

Students often ask me whether they should take gifts with them to people they might like to thank when they’re abroad. Well, that’s easier, since you buy the gift without knowing the person.

The main point here is the word “appropriateness”. Not too big, not too small, not too expensive – most gifts are a gesture, and as such should not embarrass the receiver.

I remember a kind Thai friend buying a beautiful present for my parents when they visited Thailand.

The only problem was that it was made of glass and very fragile, and they had to somehow carry it back home with them!

Just remember: appropriateness!

Oh, and if you want to send me a gift, please let me know – I’ll send you a list.

The writer is the director of Mentor International. Visit www.Mentor.ac.

DAILY XPRESS/THANIS SUDTO

Gifts should always be appropriate

ON CAMPUS

LET’S CHAT ABOUT YOUR COLLEGE PLANS

,, WE’VE JUST PASSED THAT PERIOD OF LIFE AND WE UNDERSTAND HOW THEY FEEL Suradet Rattanajaratsakul

Rangsit University links its undergraduates to high-school students trying to decide on their future

By Suwicha Chanitnun D A I LY X P R E S S

H

ow can universities best promote themselves?

Opening a call centre and placing ads on TV are good strategies, but Rangsit University is taking a more direct route by tapping into a popular teen pastime – the online chat.

The summer school break isn’t a particularly relaxing time for Mathayom 6 students – they have to make crucial decisions about what and where to study next in preparation for university.

A big help comes in the form of RSU’s Smart Team Online.

“We really want to help the students and answer the questions in their minds before they make any decisions,” says Dr Sita Yiemkuntitavorn, deputy director of Rangsit’s public-relations office.

“But we’re teachers. When they know they’re talking to a teacher, they might step back because they feel a little uncomfortable.

That’s where the online peer-to-peer communication comes in, she says. “They talk more frankly and openly.”

Smart Team Online is a live chat program on the DekDee website. One under-

graduate from each of the university’s 25 faculties has been recruited to chat with Mathayom 6 students. They can talk freely and share experiences.

“We’ve just passed that period of life and we understand how they feel,” says Suradet Rattanajaratsakul, a first-year aviation student.

“If we have the chance to suggest ideas and talk to them, we’re willing to do it.”

The 25 Rangsit students can even beam through faceto-face via webcams (closely monitored by staff).

Visit the Smart Team Online daily from 7 to 9pm until May 15.

Unilab Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd

Thongthai (1956) Co., Ltd. is a distributor of HITACHI industrial products from Japan. We are looking for energetic and highly responsible personnel for the following positions.

ASSISTANT SALES MANAGER -

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field Male or Female, age over 25 years At least 3 years experience in sales Good command of read, written and spoken English Computer literate (MS WORD, EXCEL, POWERPOINT)

SALES REPRESENTATIVE -

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field Male or Female, age over 20 years At least 2 years experience in sales Good command of read, written and spoken English Computer literate (MS WORD, EXCEL, POWERPOINT) All position - Military exempted for male candidate - Able to drive a car

ADMINISTRATION OFFICER - Female, age not over 28 years - Bachelor's degree in Administration - Good command of English communication and management skills

A well-established company has openings for energetic and qualified Thai nationals who are self-motivated and desire to succeed:

QC Chemist ❐ Not over 28 years old with working knowledge of English. ❐ Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry. ❐ Able to work in Samutprakarn Province.

If you are interested in the above positions, please send application letter and resume to :

THONGTHAI (1956) CO., LTD. (Electrical Dept.)

Please send your application or contact:

762-768 Charoenkrung Rd., Sumpunthawongse, Bangkok 10100 Tel. 02-235-5566 Ext. 225 (Khun Kanjana) Fax: 02-236-5674, 02-2338934 E-mail: ttled@cscoms.com

UNILAB PHARMACEUTICALS CO., LTD. 21/51 Thai Wah Tower I, 18th Flr., South Sathorn Rd., Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Tel: 02-285-0339-45 Fax: 02-2850350 Email: unilabth@unilab.co.th Website: http://www.unilab.co.th

Rasika Property Co., Ltd. A property development company is expanding its project and looking for the following personnel:

1. ENGINEER

2 Positions

2. FOREMAN

3 Positions

3. MARKETING OFFICER

3 Positions

- Male, age not over 45 years, Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering - At least 5 years experience (in construction control) - Male, age 20-30 years, High Voc. in Construction/Survey - Background in property will be an advantage - At least 2 years experience -

Male/Female, age not over 35 years Bachelor's degree in Marketing or Business Administration At least 3 years experience in marketing Background in property will be an advantage *** Positions 1-2 work in Nonthaburi Please apply in person or mail to: RASIKA PROPERTY CO., LTD. nd

15/1 Sakura Home, 2 Floor, Soi Sukhumvit 35, Sukhumvit Rd., Klongton-nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: 02-261-2632-3 Fax: 02-261-2634

GREAT JOB OPPORTUNIT Y 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Accountant/Auditor Salary up to THB 50,000 Database Expert Up to THB 40,000 Corporate Account Manager Up to THB 30,000 Experienced Spec Technician/Pattern Maker Up to THB 20,000 Customer Care Consultant Salary THB 10,000-15,000 Shipping Officer Salary THB 10,000-15,000 Person with great English skills Salary negotiable Sewers Great Salary

Offices in Chiang Mai, Toronto, New York and Paris www.pureandco.com/www.neonbuddha.net If you are interested in a long term employment in challenging and great working environment, please submit your complete CV to hrpureandco@hotmail.com or contact Ying or Mod at 053-221-241

Cathay Leaseplan Public Company Limited (CTL) was formed by a group of prominent financial and industrial investors in 1992 to provide asset backed financing services. Now CTL is expanding business to financial advisory and related services. The company is looking for energetic personnel to fill in the following positions:

1. Senior Vice President, New Business Development Division Accor Asia is the leading international hotel management company with over 130 properties in 13 countries around the region under its Sofitel, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, All Seasons and Ibis brands. Accor Asia is part of Paris based, Accor SA, the European leader in hotels, tourism and corporate services with over 4,000 hotels worldwide.

We are currently looking for a well-qualified individual to join our team in the position of:

Experience:

M&E MANAGER - ASIA

+ 5-10 years in the field of mechanical engineering, design of HVAC, plumbing in hotel or in high-rise buildings + Experience in dealing with owners, operators, international and local consultants Qualifications: + + + +

Knowledge of safety & environmental engineering codes shall be an advantage Good public relations and leadership skills Ready to move to Bangkok Good English, spoken & written

The “M&E Manager - Asia” will: + Be integrated in our Bangkok technical team + Be able to travel to Asia hotels + Provide the technical design brief for a new project in accordance to our brand standards + Ensure compliances with our standardized products + Liaise with operators, in-house technical team, project teams and owners + Be in charge of all risk management & environmental issues + Take care of minor & medium renovation projects Interested candidates are invited to send their fully detailed CV with photo, stating your current and expected salary to: Accor Asia - Technical Services Department 36/F, The Offices at CentralWorld, 999/9 Rama I Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Email: Human-Resources.Asia@accor.com Applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.

There are other job opportunities within Accor in Asia, visit www.accorjobs.com

Job Description ● Develop new product and new business opportunities. ● Conduct detailed feasibility studies on the project to ascertain maximum return within their legal, physical, market and financial constraints. ● Prepare investment/development memoranda for Investment Committee approval. ● Coordinate with related parties to ensure the success of the project.

Qualifications preferred ● Master's Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Economics, Statistics or related fields. ● Proven track record of customer portfolio and revenue - generation growth. ● Strong business, financial, analytical and problem solving skills.

2. Vice President of Treasury and Business Development Job Description ● Manage all financial functions; planning, budgeting, raising external fund, fund mobilization, assets and liabilities management. ● Work alongside new business development team to analyze potential opportunities. ● Analysis and valuation of the target investment project.

Qualification preferred ● Master's Degree in Finance, Economics, Statistics, Business Administration or related fields or Bachelor's Degree with at least 7 years experiences in the field. ● Familiar with commercial investment/finance/real estate background is a plus. ● Good analytical skill & computer literacy. ● Excellent command of both written & spoken English. ● Self-motivated with good interpersonal and presentation skills, highly team-oriented.

3. Credit Operation Manager Qualification preferred ● Age over 30 years old. ● Bachelor's Degree or higher in Finance, Accounting, Economics or related fields. ● Min. 7 years of working experience in credit operation from financial institutions. ● Strong knowledge of loan documentation (loan agreement, hire purchase or leasing contract, car registration, tax and insurance policy). ● Strong leadership skill and ability to communicate effectively. ● Good command of English and computer literacy.

4. Credit and Marketing Officer Qualification preferred ● Age over 25 years old, Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Finance, Economics, Statistics, Business Administration or related fields. ● Min. 3 years of working experience in credit & marketing from financial institutions. ● Prepare credit proposal for credit committee approval. ● Strong leadership skill and ability to communicate effectively.

If you think you are qualified and eager to start an exciting new career with us, please submit your application, transcript, CV, photo, copy of identification card, copy of house registration, military exemption certificate to:

Cathay Leaseplan Public Co., Ltd. 72/8-9 North Sathorn Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: 0-2266-5070 press 203 Fax: 0-266-4365 Website: www.cathaylease.com E-mail: suttawat@hertz.pcrt.co.th E-mail: kittipong@cathaylease.com

INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT CAREER OPPORTUNITY !

Restaurant Manager

Corporate Executive Chef

Required Skill & Qualifications • Male, Bachelor's degree or above • More than 5 years experience with large size restaurant or hotel or fastfood restaurant at management level • Good command of written and spoken English or Cantonese • Proficiency in MS Office and internet applications • 3 years contract to live and work in Hong Kong

Required Skill & Qualifications • Proven working record as a Thai food chef • Good international food presentation skill; experience in hotel /premium restaurant is an advantage • Able to communicate in English or Cantonese • Work in Bangkok Head Office but travel oversea to support development periodically

High-End Seaside Thai Seafood Restaurant in HONG KONG

Restaurant Executive Chef

ETA (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Urgently Wanted We are a leading international manufacturing company in the microelectronics and watch-making field with B.O.I. privileges, Headquarters in Switzerland. Presently, we have an opening for the following position:

Software Engineer • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science or related fields • Minimum 5 years experience in MS Access 2000 / 2003, MS Visual Basic 6, MS SQL 2000 Server • Experience with MS SQL 2005 Server, MySAP, ASP.NET, VB.NET and common Internet scripting languages (i.e. JavaScript and HTML) is an advantage • Able to conduct user training for MS Access, Visual Basic and MS SQL client

• Customer focused and result oriented with excellent communication skills • Professional and mature attitude with the ability to work in a multinational team environment • Excellent command of both written and spoken English • Willing to travel abroad if required Interested persons are invited to submit their application in English with resume, transcript and a recent photo to:

Human Resources Manager, ETA (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Bangplee Industrial Estate II, 439 Moo 17, Bangsaothong, Bangsaothong, Samutprakarn 10540 Tel. 0-2315-3161-73 ext. 2338 or E-mail: Suchart.Yingwattanakrai@th.eta.ch; Peter.Kunz@th.eta.ch Website: www.eta.ch

Thai Food Chain Restaurant

Interested persons, please send your resume and a recent photo to:

High-End Seaside Thai Seafood Restaurant in HONG KONG

E-mail : wasana.s@siamreadyfood.com

Required Skill & Qualifications • Male; at least 10 years experience in Thai seafood restaurant; at least 3 years experience at management level; preferably from hotel industry • Good command of spoken English or Cantonese • Good leadership and team player • 3 years contract to live and work in Hong Kong

318/10-22 Sukhumvit 22, Sukhumvit Road, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Tel. 662 663 1777, 662 663 1888 Fax. 662 663 1333

Siam Ready Food Co., Ltd.

EAC Industrial Ingredients is the leading solutions provider of industrial ingredients in South and South East Asia. Our solutions integrate a broad and complementary product portfolio with related technical, commercial, and supply chain services. We make our solutions available in 9 countries and 20 industries, representing 150 global manufacturers of industrial ingredients on an exclusive basis. We are a part of The East Asiatic Company, listed on the Copenhagen Stock Exchange.

Our Bangkok office is currently looking for a talented candidate to join our expanding organization and help us fulfill our mission and support our rapid growth.

See also www.eacii.com/careers.

Regional Supply Chain Planner

Job Description:

● Plan and control the flow of goods and information from our suppliers to our internal customers ● Monitor the import, warehousing, and export processes ● Coordinate and communicate with suppliers and internal customers on the import - export shipments and related issues ● Instruct and follow up on clearance agents, freight forwarders, shipping lines, and suppliers ● Prepare the documentation to all related parties

Qualifications:

● ● ● ● ●

Male or female, age 28-32 years, Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related fields Excellent command of English Preferably at least 3 years of experience in import & export or logistics Good computer skills and interpersonal skills Structured, ability to learn fast and an innovative mind

We offer a competitive remuneration package commensurate with candidates' qualifications and experience. Please send application and resume in English, before March 28,2008 (including recent photo) to

Human Resource Department

THE EAST ASIATIC (THAILAND) PUBLIC COMPANY, LIMITED 33th Floor, Lumpini Tower, 1168/98-100 Rama IV Road, Thungmahamek, Sathorn, BANGKOK 10120 Tel. 02 689 5999 ext. 5965, 5968 Or send an e-mail to hr@eacii.com

WORLD COMPASS CO., LTD. Tel. 02-435-9069 Mobile: 085-327-1772 available courses

TOEFL (iBT)

------

IELTS

The 12-week course of TOEFL or IELTS consists of all essential parts of listening, reading, writing and speaking. The course encompasses intensive lectures, individual practices and in particular group studies.

BUSINESS CONVERSATION The 12-week course is tailored to those who are in need of effective work place communication and conducted by an international TV correspondent based on day-to-day experience.

All courses consist of lecturing and practicing parts with emphasis on understanding, group training and modern lessons. other services ENGLISH TRANSLATION - - - - for all kinds of paperwork with translation certification STUDY ABROAD overseas study consulting for students who aim for universities in the USA, the UK and Australia

Suwannin Place, near Rama VIII bridge, Thonburi Tel: 02-435-9069

42

GAMES

Thursday, March 20, 2008

THE SPORT briefly Kluft not to defend heptathlon crown Reigning Olympic heptathlon champion Carolina Kluft will not compete in the event at the Beijing Olympics, instead focusing on long jump and triple jump, a report said. The Swede said she was no longer motivated in heptathlon. Kluft had dominated heptathlon in recent years, winning three World Championships, two European Championships, and the World Indoor Championships, but said in October she was considering a switch to long jump. – AP

Rockets' 22-game win streak halted Kevin Garnett scored 22 points and Paul Pierce added 20 as the Boston Celtics beat the Rockets 94-74, stopping Houston's remarkable victory run at 22 games. The Rockets had not lost since a defeat to Utah on January 27 and put together the second-longest winning streak.

It ended 11 victories shy of the 1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers. – AP

Dortmund in German Cup final Brazilian midfielder Tinga helped book Borussia Dortmund's place in next month's German Cup final as both goal-scorer and provider in the 3-0 semis win over Carl Zeiss Jena on Tuesday. The defeat in Dortmund was the end of the road for giant killers Jena after they put VfB Stuttgart out of the quarter-finals with a dramatic penalty win. – AFP

Todt gives way to Felisa as Ferrari CEO Jean Todt resigned as CEO of Ferrari and will assume a “special appointment” within the company's racing department.

Amedeo Felisa, formerly Ferrari's general manager, was appointed to replace Todt as CEO, the company said in a statement following a shareholders meeting.

Todt already handed over his position as director of Ferrari's Formula One team to Stefano Domenicali in November. – AP

Hair will not umpire in Pakistan games The decision by the International Cricket Council to allow the Australian umpire Darrell Hair to return to officiating at the top level after a 19month hiatus came after an informal request from the Pakistan board to avoid any match involving Pakistan, the team he upset at the Oval in August 2006 when he accused Inzamam-ul-Haq's side of balltampering.

Meanwhile, Cricket Australia welcomed Hair's reinstatement.

– AP

Birmingham raided in corruption probe Police investigating suspected corruption in football transfer dealings yesterday carried out a raid on Birmingham City.

The early morning swoop on the Premier League club was carried out by City of London Police, the force charged with investigating irregularities in transfer dealings that were highlighted by an inquiry concluded last year by former London police chief Lord Stevens. – AFP

Maria Sharapova reaches for a return to Alona Bondarenko in their Pacific Life Open match.

DAILY XPRESS

RANGERS vs PENGUINS

5:2

Sean Avery posted his third two-goal effort in a month for the Rangers to beat the Penguins in the NHL.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

GAMES 43

DAILY XPRESS

Inzamam-ul-Haq

Sir Alex Ferguson

EX-PAKISTAN CRICKET CAPTAIN

MANCHESTER UNITED COACH

“I am terribly shocked at the news and I would blame the PCB for bowing down …

[Darrell] Hair was at fault but he is reinstated like a hero”

“There are big weekends ahead but the other matches are just as important … But it's important we respect our opponents”

PA C I F I C L I F E O P E N

Russian extends unbeaten 2008 run, to meet Hantuchova in quarter showdown

STELLAR

MARIA

TENNIS

Tammy to gun for Beijing

A F P , Indian Wells, California

A

ustralian Open champion Maria Sharapova extended her 2008 unbeaten run on Tuesday, booking a quarter-final showdown with defending champion Daniela Hantuchova in the Pacific Life Open.

Sharapova, the fourth seed, escaped with a 6-2 5-7 6-4 victory over Ukrainian Alona Bondarenko, overcoming some erratic play to stretch her match-winning streak to 17.

That run includes her Aussie Open triumph and a victory at Doha.

But she will likely face her stiffest test of the tournament against fifth seed Hantuchova, who has claimed two of her three career WTA titles at Indian Wells and has not dropped a set in three matches this week.

Although she managed to capture a second-set tie-breaker, Slovakian Hantuchova had her problems before defeating India's Sania Mirza 6-1 7-6 (7/4).

Top-seeded Serbian Ana Ivanovic, whose runner-up finish to Sharapova at the Australian Open propelled her to No 2 in the world, rallied for a 2-6 7-5 6-2 victory over Italian Francesca Schiavone. Ivanovic will play Russian Vera Zvonareva, who ended the run of Australian Casey Dellacqua 6-7 (5/7) 6-0 6-4.

AP

Davydenko dented Russian Nikolay Davydenko, the world No 4, became the biggest casualty of the men's Masters Series event, falling to unseeded American Mardy Fish 6-3 6-2.

Fish broke an eight-match losing streak against top-10 opponents - a run of futility that had stretched back to the 2007 Australian Open. He earned a fourth-round match against Australian Lleyton Hewitt, who beat Russian Mikhail Youzhny 7-5 6-1.

Thai No 1 to keep least-favoured clay season down to just three tournaments

Lerpong Amsa-ngiam DAILY XPRESS

A

recharged Tamarine Tanasugarn flew to Miami last night to play in two US tournaments, before moving to her least-favoured clay season which she plans to keep short with an eye on the Olympic Games.

Six straight weeks in Asia had left the Thai No 1 weary and she opted to skip the Pacific Life Open to get some rest.

“I returned from the Middle East with a cold. I was sleeping all day for a few days as I was so tired,'' said Tamarine, who claims to have recovered fully.

“I feel fresh now and my body is stronger,'' said the 30-year-old player who will limit her clay court season to just three tournaments, including the green clay event in Amelia Island next month.

Tammy, who dislikes the slow surface, is committed to two other clay tournaments: the Internationaux de Strasbourg in Paris and the French Open in May. “I always committed the mistake of choosing to play on clay hoping that I'd be able to adjust my game. But I

,,

I FEEL FRESH NOW AND MY BODY IS STRONGER Tamarine Tanasugarn

XTRA TA M A R I N E >> She was born on May 24, 1977, in Los Angeles, USA. >> Her highest WTA ranking has been No 19, which she achieved on May 13, 2002. >> Tammy has been in the top twenty in both singles and doubles.

haven't had good results on the surface. This year, I will also play three hardcourt events in Japan during the clay season.”

The dream of playing in her fourth consecutive Olympics reinforced the Thai veteran's decision to gain as many points as possible to ensure a ranking inside the top 80 by June.

“I don't want to pressure myself at the French where I reached the second round last year. Playing small events in Japan is better than losing in the first round on clay,” Tamarine said.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

DAILY XPRESS

Nation Multimedia Group President Thanachai Santichaikul, in red T-shirt, poses with executive members including Aeumsree Boonhachairat, second from right front row, in the press conference yesterday.

GOLF

Hole-in-One fun is back in town Nation’s popular tournament is back for its fifth year; to tee off next Wednesday DAILY XPRESS

F

ollowing the successful staging of the Nation’s Hole-in-One Golf Tournament over the past four years, the fifth edition will tee off with the first leg beginning next Wednesday at the Muang

Kaew Golf Course along the Bang Na-Trad Highway to Pattaya-Chon Buri.

The first 11 rounds of the year-long competition will take place on the third Wednesday of every month, featuring flights A, B and C.

The 12th and final round called the Nation’s Swing Challenge – featuring the top three of each flight from all 11 rounds totalling 99 golfers – will be held in March next year at the Santiburi Samui Country Club, Surat Thani.

The Swing Challenge winner will join the Nation Multimedia Group’s executive board and the Nation’s Hole-

Asian stars itching to tame Tiger

YEAR-LONG SWING >> The 11 rounds will be held on third Wednesday of every month. >> A total of 99 golfers will take part in the final round. >> The overall winner will get a chance to play in China.

sors to play a round of golf in April in Shenzhen, China.

A press conference announcing the details of the fifth Nation’s Hole-in-One Golf Tournament was held yesterday at the Muang Kaew Golf Course, with Nation Multimedia Group President Thanachai Santichaikul presiding over the function.

A S I A N T O U R I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Red-hot Kiyota wants to live up to top billing

A F P , Singapore

A

A F P , Chon Buri

J

Thongchai

AFP

strong Asian cast will aim to end Tiger Woods’ amazing winning run at the WGC-CA Championship in Doral starting today.

China’s Liang Wen-chong, last season’s Asian Tour merit champion, leads the region’s challenge in the US$8-million event headlined by world No 1 and title-holder Woods, who is unbeaten this year.

Johnnie Walker Classic winner Mark Brown, Indian Masters champion SSP Chowrasia and Jeev Milkha Singh are also in the fold, along with Thailand’s Chapchai Nirat.

Liang has been drawn to play in the first two rounds alongside Sergio Garcia and Graeme Storm while Chowrasia tees off with KJ Choi and Henrik Stenson.

XTRA in-One project’s allied spon-

apan’s Taichiro Kiyota is hoping his rich vein of form will secure him a maiden title at the Asian Tour International teeing off today.

Kiyota, 27, is relishing a return to the Pattana Golf and Sports Resort, where he first earned his Asian Tour card through qualifying school in 2006. The Japanese is the highest-ranked player in this week’s inaugural US$300,000 event and he hopes to live up to his top billing.

“My form is good but I’ve been quite lucky too. My short game and putting have been really solid, which helped me produce a nice start to the year. But coming

,, MY FORM IS GOOD BUT I HAVE BEEN QUITE LUCKY TOO Taichiro Kiyota

into this week is going to be tough,” said Kiyota, who stands eighth on the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit.

He will be joined by a strong Japanese contingent that includes Tatsuhiko Ichihara, Takuya Taniguchi, Yoshinobu Tsukada, and Mitsuhiro Tateyama.

The local charge will be led by Thongchai Jaidee, Thaworn Wiratchant and Prayad Marksaeng alongside Malaysia’s Ben Leong, former US PGA Tour player Scott Hend of Australia, Filipino Artemio Murakami and Indian stalwart Gaurav Ghei.

The event, played on the par-72 course, is the seventh leg on the 2008 Asian Tour.

DAILY XPRESS/KHANONGDEJ SUKKAKIJ

44 THE SPORT

Thursday, March 20, 2008

THE SPORT 45

DAILY XPRESS

WO R L D C U P S O CC E R

S AFRICAN DREAM GETS PRICEY Preparations hit by cost overruns as ambitious plan takes its toll

South African President Thabo Mbeki will have to find more funds to host the World Cup.

A P , Cape Town

T

XTRA and airports, as well as beefing up police numbers and equipment.

Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo Ngcuka, who received the report from Sports Minister Makhenkese Stofile, warned that spending would not “be open ended” in a country suffering crushing poverty and inequality due to years of apartheid.

ALL ABOUT MONEY >> So far, US$2.5 billion have been allocated for stadium and other infrastructure work. >> The figure is likely to rise up to $3.7 billion because of the spiralling cost of raw materials. >> When estimates were made in 2004, the number was as little as $370 million.

AP

he South African government will spend more than 30 billion rands (US$3.7 billion) on the 2010 World Cup, in part because of escalating stadium construction costs.

The official report released on Tuesday, which assessed progress in preparations, said that so far 20 billion rands (US$2.5 billion) had been allocated for stadium, transport and other infrastructure.

When it bid to host the soccer showcase, estimates made in 2004 for the cost of hosting the event were as little as 3 billion rands (US$370 million).

But since then, plans have become more ambitious – new stadiums are being built in Durban and Cape Town which were not initially scheduled – and the price of cement and other raw materials has risen.

The government has also decided to use the event as a catalyst for massive spending on badly needed transport infrastructure like roads, railways

Stofile said the report showed that government preparations for the megaevent were on track.

“This report shows that we have complied with literally every guarantee that we have made. We even went beyond that,’’ he told the South African Press Association in Pretoria.

After a slow start, stadium

Season over for Nistelrooy

SOCCER

Walcott all set for friendly role

A P , Madrid

England boss to include Gunner in 30-man squad; Beckham also in line for 100th cap against France

F

abio Capello will recall Theo Walcott from the international wilderness two years after his only appearance for England’s senior side and include the Arsenal winger in his provisional 30-man squad for next week’s friendly against France in Paris.

Walcott’s sole cap was as a substitute against Hungary in May 2006 as Sven-Goran Eriksson’s side prepared for that summer’s World Cup finals. He was selected in the squad for the tournament but did not feature and had since dropped out of the picture

having been reduced to a bitpart role at Arsenal.

However, there have been flashes of quality in recent weeks, with Capello having sent his general manager, Franco Baldini, to assess the 19year-old during the Champions League win over Milan.

He was omitted from Stuart Pearce’s Under-21 squad, due to play Poland, and could now be offered an opportunity to impress against France instead.

Capello will name his initial squad today before trimming it to 23 on Saturday, with David Beckham also likely to be involved in the friendly.

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Arsenal winger Theo Walcott has been in good form of late, albeit as an impact sub.

AFP

T H E G U A R D I A N , London

construction is generally on track, although there are concerns that the Port Elizabeth stadium may not be ready in time for the 2009 Confederations Cup. The lack of efficient public transport remains a big headache.

Authorities are also honing security preparations – another potential source of worry.

eal Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy underwent surgery on his injured right ankle and could miss the remainder of the Spanish league season, local media reports said yesterday. The Netherlands striker is expected to be available for the European Championship.

Van Nistelrooy has not played since injuring the ankle in a league match against Almeria on February 2, a span of eight games in all competitions. Madrid fell out of the Champions League at the first knockout stage for the fourth straight season during his absence.

Van Nistelrooy has scored 16 goals in all competitions.

46 THE SPORT

Thursday, March 20, 2008

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DAILY XPRESS

IF THE PANEL RECOGNISES THE ERRORS …FLOYD WILL HAVE THE JUSTICE HE SEEKS Attorney Maurice Suh

A R B I T R AT I O N C O U RT H E A R I N G

FINAL

STRETCH A F P , New York

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XTRA F L OY D L A N D I S >> He is a time-trial specialist as well as a strong climber. >> Joined the US Postal team in 2002, and moved to the Phonak team in 2005. >> Was fired from Phonak on Aug 5, 2006, after positive dope test.

S cyclist Floyd Landis, stripped of his 2006 Tour de France victory for doping, makes his appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) today in a do-or-die bid to regain his title.

The 32-year-old American has spent about US$2 million in fighting the positive doping test for steroid testosterone on July 20, 2006, but lost a 2-1 ruling before a US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) arbitration panel last September.

The International Cycling Union stripped Landis of his 2006 crown after that verdict, awarding the title to Spain’s Oscar Pereiro, who finished 57 seconds behind Landis.

Landis, whose ban runs until next January 29, will make his final stand in a Manhattan law office behind closed doors in a hearing expected to run five days.

Landis tested positive for synthetic testosterone after the penultimate 17th stage of the 2006 race. He fell back in stage

16 but rallied in stage 17 to reclaim almost eight minutes on his way to a now-disgraced victory moment.

Landis has maintained his innocence despite the positive test, blaming mistakes in testing procedure by the French laboratory for the result during his USADA hearing, which was open to the public.

Landis attorney Maurice Suh has said he thinks the evidence presented by his team at the earlier hearing was enough to exonerate Landis and will have a chance to test that idea before a global panel.

“This appeal is directed at having a fair-minded arbitration panel recognises those errors and apply the facts and law to this case. If this is done, Floyd will have the justice that he seeks,” Suh said The panel noted several areas in which the French lab’s handling of the test sample was improper but said the carbon ratio isotope test that showed Landis testing positive outweighed those flaws.

AFP

Landis set for last appeal against doping ban in bid to regain Tour de France title

Thursday, March 20, 2008

THE SPORT 47

DAILY XPRESS

AFC CHAMPIONS LE AGUE

D AV I S C U P

Chon Buri seize Victory

Hewitt to lead Aussie campaign

Thai top-flight champs brighten their chances of qualification with 3-1 win over Melbourne

A F P , Sydney

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By Kitinan Sanguansak DAILY XPRESS

hailand Premier League champions Chon Buri brightened their chances of qualification following an impressive 3-1 victory over Australia’s Melbourne Victory in their Asian Football Confederation Champions League Group G match yesterday.

Having opened their debut campaign in the continent’s elite club competition with a surprise 1-1 away draw to JLeague outfit Gamba Osaka last week, Chon Buri maintained their good performance for a deserving win.

The Thai side are level on points with Gamba Osaka, who edged out South Korea’s K-League side Chunnam Dragons in a 4-3 thriller.

The atmosphere inside the Supachalasai stadium had all the ingredients of a European competition, with the cheering fans making a quite a noise.

Having spurned many chances, the hosts broke the deadlock from a good passing move on the stroke of halftime. Surat Sukha spread the

Chon Buri’s Ney Fabiano, right, tries to get past Stilianos Pantelidis of Melbourne Victory during their match yesterday.

ball out wide on the left to Arthit Suntornphit, who provided a delightful cross for Brazil striker Ney Fabiano to send a looping header over the flat-footed goalie.

The visitors earned the ire of the home fans when they carried on play, despite a Thai player lying injured on the field, that culminated in Daniel Allsopp’s equaliser.

RESULTS basketball NBA Detroit 136-120 Denver Miami 112-106 Milwaukee Chicago 112-96 New Jersey La Lakers 102-100 Dallas Boston 94-74 Houston Sacramento 122-105 Golden State

cycling Tirreno-Adriatico Seventh and final stage: 1. Francesco Chicchi (ITA/LIQ) 2. Danilo Napolitano (ITA/LAM) 3. Mark Cavendish (GBR/THR) 4. Robbie McEwen (AUS/SIL) 5. Danilo Hondo (GER/SDA) 6. Maximiliano Richeze (ARG/CSF) 7. Alexandre Usov (BLR/A2R) 8. Josi Joaquin Rojas (ESP/GCE) Overall standings: 1. Fabian Cancellara (SUI/CSC) 28hr 08min 21sec 2. Enrico Gasparotto (ITA/BAR)

DAILY XPRESS/NARIN KRUAKLAI

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at 0:16sec 3. Thomas Lovkvist (SWE/THR) 0:40 4. Markus Fothen (GER/GST) 0:53 5. Nicklas Axelsson (SWE/SDA) 1:32 6. Gustav Erik Larsson (SWE/CSC) 1:36 7. Filippo Pozzato (ITA/LIQ) 1:44 8. Ryder Hesjedal (CAN/TSL) 1:53

ice hockey NHL Ny Rangers 5-2 Pittsburgh Toronto 3-1 Ny Islanders Philadelphia 3-2 Atlanta Columbus 3-0 Calgary St Louis 4-3 Montreal (So) Washington 4-2 Nashville Edmonton 8-4 Phoenix San Jose 2-1 Los Angeles

soccer AFC Champions League Adelaide Utd 0-0 Changchun Yatai

XTRA

However, the hosts felt justice was done when substitute Stephane Baga of Cameroon fired in a screamer from outside the area, causing the stadium to explode with joy. Baga rounded off a remarkable night for the hosts with his second in injury time.

Meanwhile, Beijing Gouan of China defeated Krung Thai Bank 4-2 in their Group F tie.

102-100

MIXED FORTUNES >> The Thais are now level on points with Gamba Osaka with four points each. >> Osaka edged out South Korea’s Chunnam Dragons in a seven-goal thriller. >> Krung Thai Bank suffered yet another defeat, this time to Beijing Gouan.

Bryant in the zone Kobe Bryant scored 29 points to lead the Lakers past the Mavericks in a NBA thriller.

Kuruvchi FC 2-0 Sepahan Saipa 2-0 Al Wasl Sports Club Binh Duong 1-4 Pohang Steelers Kashima Antlers (JPN) 6-0 Nam Dinh Beijing Guoan 4-2 Krung Thai Bank Chunnam Dragons (KOR) 3-4 Gamba Osaka

Feyenoord 2-0 NAC Breda

English Championship Colchester 1-3 Hull Wolverhampton 2-1 Scunthorpe

German Cup Semi-finals Borussia Dortmund 3-0 Carl Zeiss Jena

League One Bristol Rovers 0-2 Swansea Huddersfield 2-1 Brighton Scottish FA Cup Quarter-final replays Celtic 0-1 Aberdeen 1 St Mirren 1-3 St Johnstone 3 Second Division Cowdenbeath 2-4 Queens Park Ross County 0-0 Brechin Third Division Albion 1-1 Stranraer Dumbarton 1-0 Stenhousemuir Dutch Cup Semi-final

leyton Hewitt will lead the Australian Davis Cup squad against Thailand in next month’s tie in the city of Townsville, Tennis Australia announced yesterday.

Peter Luczak, at a career high of world No 69, has been recalled to the team, who will play the Asia/Oceania Zone Group One second-round tie from April 11 to 13.

The inclusion of 28-yearold Luczak edges out Alun Jones who was named in the team that beat Taiwan last month.

Australian captain John Fitzgerald said the decision was based on conditions in Townsville.

“This is a different type of hard court to Chinese Taipei,” he said. “The Townsville tie will be played indoors on a slower, higher bouncing court.”

Along with world No 24 Hewitt, the team will include Chris Guccione (70) and doubles specialist Paul Hanley.

The winner of the Townsville round will earn a berth in the World Group play-offs in September.

French Cup Round of 16 Lyon 2-1 Sochaux Dijon 3-1 Tours 1 Sedan 2-0 Angers Paris Saint Germain 2-1 Bastia

tennis ATP/WTA Indian Wells Men’s third round David Nalbandian (ARG x7) b Radek Stepanek (CZE) 7-6 (7/1), 0-6, 7-6 (8/6) Roger Federer (SUI x1) b Nicolas Mahut (FRA) 6-1, 6-1 Ivan Ljubicic (CRO) b Tommy Robredo (ESP) 6-3, 6-4 Mardy Fish (USA) b Nikolay Davydenko (RUS x4) 6-3, 6-2 Juan Carlos Ferrero (ESP) b Mario Ancic (CRO) 7-5, 4-6, 7-6 (9/7)

Lleyton Hewitt (AUS) b Mikhail Youzhny (RUS) 7-5, 6-1 Andy Murray (GBR) b Ivo Karlovic (CRO) 7-6 (9/7), 6-7 (3/7), 6-3 Tommy Haas (GER) b Fernando Verdasco (ESP) 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-1 Women’s fourth round Daniela Hantuchova (SVK x5) b Sania Mirza (IND) 6-1, 7-6 (7/4) Agnieszka Radwanska (POL) b Ashley Harkleroad (USA) 4-6, 62, 6-4 Svetlana Kuznetsova (RUS x2) b Caroline Wozniacki (DEN) 6-2, 6-3 Maria Sharapova (RUS x4) b Alona Bondarenko (UKR) 6-2, 57, 6-4 Jelena Jankovic (SRB x3) b Anabel Medina Garrigues (ESP) 6-3, 6-3 Vera Zvonareva (RUS) b Casey Dellacqua (AUS) 6-7 (5/7), 6-0, 6-4 Ana Ivanovic (SRB x1) b Francesca Schiavone (ITA) 2-6, 7-5, 6-2 Lindsay Davenport (USA) b Marion Bartoli (FRA x6) 6-2, 7-5

ON TV Golf World Championship 1am (Fri)/True Sport 4 Puerto Rico Open

5.30am (Fri)/True Sport 4

Games National Youth Games

3pm/True Sport 2

Tennis Pacific Life Open

3am (Fri)/Star Sports

48

BANGKOKTHURSDAY, March 20, 2008

DAILY XPRESS

THESPORT

PIETERROCKED Three-time Olympic champion Pieter van den Hoogenband was eliminated from the 200m freestyle in the heats at the Euro championships

PA C I F I C L I F E O P E N

EYEING THE KILL

AFP

“I don’t know if I can be better than that,” said world No 1 Roger Federer after he swept aside France’s Nicolas Mahut 6-1 6-1 in 53 minutes to reach the fourth round of the Pacific Life Open.

Federer will face Croatian Ivan Ljubicic in the fourth round >PAGE 42

GOLF

SOCCER

Back to his local hunting ground

Walcott in frame for Paris friendly

The Asian Tour International tees off at the Pattana Golf Resort today and Prayad Marksaeng will be among the local stars eager for a winning run on the course which saw him win the Volvo Masters last year >PAGE 44

The talented Gunner will return from the international wilderness as England boss Fabio Capello gets ready to name him in the 30-man provisional squad for next week’s high-profile tie against France >PAGE 45