PY O C E FRE
EXCITING TRAVEL PACKAGES PAGES 19-23
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DAILY
Wednesday, July 8, 2009 VOL 2, NO 370 dailyxpress.net
Conquering HERO RETURNS
GOOD MORNING BANGKOK!
Michael, you’re not alone By Jakraphan “Got” Arbkornburi Singer
I
was saddened to hear the reports [of Michael Jackson’s death] and even refused to believe them at first. It’s terrible that someone with so much talent and ability had his life cut short. I have all his live performances on DVD at home and I’ve learned a lot from them. My favourite Jackson song is “You’re Not Alone” for its deep, soulful lyrics. If he’s up there somewhere, I’d like to tell him that he’ll never die in our memories. “You’re not alone, Michael.”
WIMBLEDON JUNIOR CHAMPION Noppawan Lertcheewakarn arrives this afternoon in Bangkok to a huge welcome – and a ‘tasty northern meal cooked by dad’ >PAGE 27
WHAT’S ON in the city >PAGE 10
BARBECUE like a pro
AP
>PAGE 9
2 TODAY
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
THE CITY
500,000
HAVE APPLIED to take the Office of the Civil Service Commission’s general competency test, mandatory for anyone who wishes to become a civil servant.
Five troubled villages in Ubon Ratchathani find peace in a monk’s idea to banish alcohol and its evils
briefly Fast lane for flu victims
By Juthamard Komin D A I LY X P R E S S
Love breaks addiction Asking about their relationships with others arouses a sense of responsibility and guilt in drinkers, says the abbot. “A drinker often lacks determination so he or she needs external inspiration as well as support.” Through his persuasive powers and dedication, the residents of Baan Non Makhua – DAILY
XPRESS
DAILY XPRESS
“W
hen drinkers think of their loved ones, it’s easier for them to give up their drinking habit,” says Phra Khru Supakijmongkol, who has successfully banished alcohol from five villages in Ubon Ratchathani. These alcohol-free zones report a significant reduction in the number of brawls and debts. The senior monk started his anti-drinking campaign shortly after being appointed abbot of Non Makhua Temple in 2002. “I started after finding that most brawls and thefts are related to alcohol consumption,” Supakijmongkol explains. The monk began by suggesting to those hosting funeral services at the temple that serving alcohol could disturb the soul of the deceased. When the technique worked, the monk extended his advice to ordination and wedding ceremonies. After his success in making Non Makhua Temple an alcohol-free zone, he embarked on a plan to spread the message beyond its walls.
DAILY XPRESS
Non Makhua Temple abbot Phra Khru Supakijmongkol explains his anti-drinking concept. The banner next to the senior monk reads, ‘Serving alcoholic drinks at a merit-making ceremony is a sin.’
Exorcising the demon drink BAAN NON MAKHUA RESIDENTS,WHO USED TO SPEND UP TO BT360,000 A MONTH ON ALCOHOL,BECAME THE FIRST TO BANISH IT FROM THEIR VILLAGE,WHICH FREED UP MONEY FOR DAILY NECESSITIES. who used to spend up to Bt360,000 a month on alcohol – became the first to banish it from their village, which freed up money for daily necessities. Neighbouring villages soon followed suit.
“Without alcohol, people are able to be more conscious of their actions, to stand back and see what damage they cause,” Non Makhua village headman Koon Siboon says. He adds that more than 70
per cent of the village’s crimes were a consequence of drinking alcohol, for which he has created a voluntary Bt500 fine. Drinkers also come to the temple for help. Supakijmongkol and other monks offer them a mental and physical “detox” in the form of teachings and herbal drinks. “I’ve finally regained what I lost,” says Pao Pikroa, a builder who has quit drinking. Drinking four bottles of liquor a day brought out Pao’s aggressive side, which cost him his job and family. But after the detox treatment at the temple, he says, he got his life back on track.
Starting today, fast-track lanes will be available to patients with flu-like symptoms at all nine public hospitals and clinics in Bangkok. “This is a measure to prevent the spread of the disease and to ensure infected patients get treatment without delay,” Deputy Bangkok Governor Dr Malinee Sukvejvorakij said yesterday. So far, influenza A (H1N1) has claimed nine lives in Thailand. Deputy Bangkok city clerk Kraijak Kaewnil advised people with flu-like symptoms to seek immediate treatment. “If you have any inquiry about this new disease, you can call the 1555 hotline round the clock,” he said.
Winking at visitors Chiang Mai Zoo reports that its takings were Bt3 million last weekend after the panda cub went on direct public display for the first time. Panda project chief Prasertsak Boontrakulpoontawee yesterday said 10,000 visitors had booked to see the baby bear, which opened its left eye for the first time on Saturday. The fast-growing cub weighed 2.07 kilograms yesterday, having gained 40 grams in 24 hours. Prasertsak expects her right eye to open in the next two days and the cub should be able to see clearly soon. – Daily Xpress
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 / Sport Editor: Preechachan Wiriyanupappong / Group Editor in Chief: Suthichai Yoon
>>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 FOR DISPLAY ADVERTISING,PLEASE CALL (02) 338 3000 # 1 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 Friday. Subscription rates for THE NATION: one year Bt4,900 within regular delivery areas; please contact Customer Service on (02) 338 3000. For bulk copy subscription rates please call (02) 338 3532.
4
GLOBETROT
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
THE WORLD JACKSON’S MOTHER LOSES CONTROL OF STAR’S ESTATE A F P , Los Angeles
A
judge removed Michael Jackson’s mother as administrator of his estate, handing temporary control to the two executors named in the pop star’s 2002 will. The decision by Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff left Jackson attorney John Branca and music executive John McClain in charge of Jackson’s estimated US$500million (Bt17-billion) fortune until a further hearing on August 3. Lawyers for Jackson’s 79year-old mother Katherine clashed with the two for control of his estate, which includes the Neverland Ranch and rights to Beatles songs. A judge had named Katherine as temporary executor of his estate shortly after
the pop icon suddenly collapsed and died on June 25. But Judge Beckloff handed the estate over to Branca and McClain in line with Jackson’s will, which emerged last week. Lawyers for Katherine Jackson had opposed the motion to appoint the two men, citing a “conflict of interests” and questioning whether Branca had a current relationship with Jackson at the time of his death. “Mrs Jackson has concerns about handing over the keys of the kingdom just yet. She feels it is too soon,” attorney John Schreiber said. However, a lawyer for Branca said his client had recently been rehired by Jackson and was well known to the family. The Los Angeles Times re- Flowers and toys are left by fans for Michael Jackson outside the ported on Monday that al- family home in Encino, Los Angeles, just before the memorial service though the free-spending early this morning for the late King of Pop. Jackson died owing more than $400 million, his assets outMeanwhile, investigators investigators found the powerstripped his debts by at least probing the circumstances of ful sedative Propofol among a $200 million. Jackson’s mysterious death are variety of prescription medicaThe figures also do not in- reportedly looking at the role of tions at Jackson’s home. clude the huge sums likely to be five doctors who prescribed Propofol is commonly used in generated by posthumous sales drugs to the star. hospitals to induce unconof his music and memorabilia, US media, citing unidentified sciousness in patients before which have surged. law enforcement sources, said major surgery.
Microsoft sounds computer security alarm Microsoft has warned of a flawed software in Internet Explorer that hackers can exploit to take over some computers. The vulnerability was found in a program used in the popular web browser to play video on computers running with Windows XP or Windows Server 2003 oper-
ating systems, Microsoft said in a warning posted online. “An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could gain the same user rights as the local user,” the software giant warned in a security bulletin. “We are aware of attacks attempting to exploit the vulnerability.”
10,000 immigrants from Afghanistan, Burma, Sri Lanka and Iraq are massing in Malaysia for passage to Australia by people-smugglers.
briefly Gropping the wrong gender
AP
Music executive, attorney given temporary charge; investigators look at role of five doctors
DAILY XPRESS
Microsoft said it was working with partners to patch the weakness in ActiveX Video Control involved in capturing, recording or playing video and is also a main component of Windows Media Centre. Microsoft advised users to deactivate ActiveX Video Control
until a fix is available. “When the ActiveX control is used in Internet Explorer, the control may corrupt the system state in such a way that an attacker could run an arbitrary code,” the company said. “Microsoft is currently working to develop a security update for Windows to address this vulnerability.” – A F P
A Taiwanese man was stunned to find that a longhaired, skirt-wearing victim he groped in a packed train was not a woman. The 51-year-old man first touched the victim’s waist and then caressed the behind of the 20-year-old before the victim finally shouted for help. It was at the police station that officers learned that “she” was a “he”. The equally surprised suspect begged for pardon from police, saying he should not be charged with sexual harassment since the victim was a man. But the police said it was harassment all the same, and charged him. – DPA
Miniskirt ‘eyesore’ Almost three-quarters of South Korean male office workers feel uncomfortable when female colleagues show too much leg or cleavage in the workplace, a survey has revealed. A poll of 1,254 employees by the job portal site CareerNet found that 74 per cent of men felt upset with the attire of their female co-workers. Some 56 per cent of them cited micro-miniskirts as their chief complaint, while 51 per cent objected to excessive cleavage. Women complained mostly of stains on the shirts and ties of their male colleagues.
Mysterious skull Baffled Australian police launched an appeal for information after a 700-year-old skull washed up on a beach. Police believe the skull must belong to a private collector or museum, but are mystified as to how it arrived on the Sydney beach. Tests showed the skull belonged to a non-Aboriginal child aged between four and six who lived about seven centuries ago. – AFP
6 ENTERTAINMENT
THE FUN XTRA THEY GOT RHYTHM >> “Love is Hear” is at 7 tomorrow night at the Scala Theatre in Siam Square. >> Tickets are Bt700 to Bt1,500, available at the door. >> Proceeds go to the Foundation for the Deaf under the patronage of Her Majesty the Queen. >> On the Web: www.HappeningNow.net.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
KRIS ALLEN, “AMERICAN IDOL” WINNER, ON THE “AMERICAN IDOL” CONCERT TOUR, WHICH STARTED ON SUNDAY. “The energy is going to be better on the tour. No one’s judging you.”
C O N C E RT P R E V I E W
GOOD
VIBRATIONS D A I LY X P R E S S
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DAILY XPRESS/EKKARAT SUKPETCH
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Musicians to pump up the rhythm for a show for the deaf tomorrow night By Kitchana Lersakvanitchakul
‘Love is Hear’ performers include, clockwise from top, Stamp, Friday, Scrubb, Q Flure and pantomime troupe Babymime.
DAILY XPRESS
or the first time in Thailand, the hearing impaired are getting a chance to interact with pop stars in a concert. “It’s a love-themed concert for the deaf,” says organiser Vip Buraphadeja, the editor-in-chief of lifestyle magazine Happening. “It’s a relatively new phenomenon but the good news is that today, the hearing impaired can enjoy music performances just like people with normal hearing.” Among those taking part in tomorrow night’s “Love is Hear” concert are pop outfits Friday, ETC and Scrubb, soloists Stamp, Q Flure, Koh Mr Saxman and Exotic and the pantomime troupe Babymime. The performances will be different from their usual gigs, and creatively designed to cater to 40 students from Setsatian School for the Deaf who’ll be seated among the hearing audience.
Pounding drums “A friend at Nude Communication asked me whether the deaf could really enjoy a concert,” says Vip. “I explained that the deaf can’t hear anything, even a song, but they can sense melody and especially rhythm. They can feel vibrations like a pounding drum. I did a lot of research and discovered that the deaf can sense waves of sound while holding a balloon. That’s why everyone in the theatre will be holding a balloon. “The concert will also be rich in motion graphics,” he ex-
THE DEAF CAN SENSE WAVES OF SOUND WHILE HOLDING A BALLOON.THAT’S WHY EVERYONE IN THE THEATRE WILL BE HOLDING A BALLOON. Vip Buraphadeja, concert organiser plains. “We’re using music videos and other visuals to interpret the artists’ songs and percussion to synchronise the instruments and the lighting. It’s very exciting.” In addition to the hit love songs being performed by the stars, the concert also features a newly written number, “Sieng Nai Khwam Ngieb” (“Sound in Silence”) penned by Prapas Cholsaranond. “I think silence can say a lot about love,” says the songwriter, adding that he was inspired by a young deaf girl who made herself clearly understood without saying a word. “I sensed her voice even though she didn’t say anything.”
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
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ENTERTAINMENT 7
DAILY XPRESS
LANGUAGES are supported by the Facebook social-networking website.
‘A C A D E M Y FA N TA S I A’
Top of the class As a trainer, singer Kob Saowanit will help the cable-TV reality series’ 12 contestants find their own voices By Kitchana Lersakvanitchakul D A I LY X P R E S S
S
inger Saowanit “Kob” Navapan heads the new team of voice trainers for the 12 contestants on season six of “Academy Fantasia”. “My aim is to give them technique and more musical understanding to support their voices and their characters,” she says. “But the season is three months
shorter than a usual singing course. So we really have to work hard.” Most of the “AF” contestants have some singing experience, she says. “one is studying classical music and singing at a pub, but they lack the basics.” Kob will teach them breathing techniques to give their voices power. “They also need to learn about melody lines and
how to make a song emotional and lively. “I don’t just let them sing along to the backing track, because if I do, they’ll never understand the finer points,” she adds. What’s the hardest lesson? “New thoughts, ideas and singing. But I’m working on it,” she concludes. >> TUNING IN “Academy Fantasia” is on TrueVisions channel 18. Concerts are at 9.30pm on Saturdays on Modernine and TrueVisions channels 19 and 29.
Pulling
strings Prachaya Ramyothin of the pop band ETC is one of six bassists who’ll be playing at TK Park’s first ever “Bass Day” on Saturday from 11 to 6. The day of workshops wraps up with a concert featuring
Prachya, Viroj Satapanawat of Infinity, Therdsak Wongvichien of Triolive, Dome Hayodom of Mansri, Vichudej Netsin of Koh Mr Saxman’s band and Norathep Masaeng of Crescendo. Call (02) 257 4300 or visit www.TKPark.or.th.
Romancing the keys
The Osaka-born Seta has won various international competitions and credits her career to world-famous Argentine pianist Eduardo Delgado. Tickets are Bt400 and Bt200 for students and are available at Robinson Piano on the fifth floor of Siam Discovery Centre . Call (081) 682 8000.
Playing to win JAPANESE PIANIST Atsuko Seta returns to Bangkok on July 23 at 8pm for a romantic recital at Thai German Cultural Foundation Auditorium that features works by Chopin, Liszt and Ginastera.
WANT TO CELEBRATE the 10th anniversary of Japan’s Summer Sonic rock festival next month? To win two tickets along with a tour package to Japan, log on to www.SoundZeroRadio.com and play the online Zero Agent Episode.
“THE SIMPSONS” will no longer be shown during prime-time in Ecuador while government watchdogs ponder the impact on children of the often-violent, anti-social American cartoon series.
soopsip That’s money well wasted MP Nipit Intarasombat, the Phatthalung Democrat, knows freedom and justice come at a price, and he’s prepared to pay it in Bt500 instalments. Stung when Abhisit Vejjajiva named Virachai Virameteekul PM’s Office Minister, Nipit complained that the party was dominated by businessmen and wondered very loudly about a mysterious Bt80-million donation it received. He bombarded Virachai with questions, like “What back stairwell did he use to get to the top?” and “Who’s he financing?”
Nipit vowed to “release the party from debt to the capitalists” by giving Virachai Bt500 a Nipit month. If it’s that Bt80 million he’s trying to pay off, it’ll take him 10,000 years. Democrat elders winced. Chuan Leekpai expressed empathy for the heartbroken Nipit, and Nipit softened up a bit, but he’s still sending Bt500 a month to Government House. Contact Soopsip at veenxpress@gmail.com.
ENTERTAINMENT
sound bytes By Mr Badboy
Transformer: Revenge Of The Fallen Various Artists (Reprise) For a film that’s received rave reviews, the “Transformer: Revenge Of The Fallen” soundtrack is surprisingly average, with only four numbers really standing out from the crowd. “New Divide” by Linkin Park is the official single but though it’s a solid song and Linkin Park are one of the best bands around, it’s not the best thing they’ve ever done. I personally preferred Green Day's “21 Guns”, and the Fray’s “Never Say Never”, with its great guitar solo and beautiful piano. Staind’s “This Is It” also adds strength to the soundtrack, which closes out with Cheap Trick’s “Transformers Theme (The Fallen Remix)” is the closing track.
The Jose Carreras Collection Jose Carreras (Warner Music) Labelled as one of the world’s “best-loved tenors” and part of the global hit that was the Three Tenors, Jose Carreras’ collection celebrates a lifetime of achievement in the classical and opera world. Its consists of two CDs, the first a mix of songs from well known operas such as “La Boheme” and “Tosca” and some classical pieces including Rachmaninov’s concerto, and the second, a collection of songs from the movies including “Over the Rainbow” and “A Place Far Far Away”.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
DAILY XPRESS
A plea for peace The United People Assembly of Thailand calls for peace and friendship with a concert this Sunday in Bangkok By Kitchana Lersakvanitchakul D A I LY X P R E S S
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his Sunday at 6, a group dedicated to peace and friendship is hosting its first concert at the National Institute of Development Administration’s Chalerm Prakiat Hall. Organised by the United People Assembly of Thailand, the show also aims to raise funds to build up an information network to help fight injustice. “We would like people living outside Bangkok to have accurate information on what really happens in our nation. That Several artists are appealing for people to fight for peace and friendship at this Sunday’s concert. can best be achieved by building 70 radio communities all over the country. We estimate that that will cost between Bt3 million and B4 million,” says the assembly’s Dr Supaporn Iammatavee. “We believe that a radio community is more convenient than satellite TV,” he adds. “People can take their transistors everywhere and, most importantly, can tune into the same radio network. The Malangsap Project. That would help the country Rang Rockestra. be more peaceful.” Ed Footpath. Taking part in Sunday’s show are “The concert will chronicle the past and Caravan, Ed Footpath, Rang Rockestra, nabegins with a VTR presentation of XTRA tional artist Naowarat Pongpaibul, Thailand from the Ayutthaya era until Kannayao, Kampun Bantan from Khorat, 1932. The artists will perform songs relatJOIN THE CROWD Wongduen and Nat Yontararak, the ing to several events, including the stu>> Tickets cost Bt500 to Bt2,000 at Malangsap Project and Suvet Phurahong. dent-led uprising in October 1973 to the Thaiticketmajor. They’ll be backed by the Acoustic Music Black May massacre of 1992. Band. There’ll also be talks by former na“If this concert is successful, people will >> For information, call (089) 717 2215, tional police chief General Seripisut understand the need to fight for peace and (081) 612 8844 or visit www.PADMusic.org. Temiyavej, Prasong Soonsiri, Paisal friendship rather than form mobs and Puedmongko and Chaiwat Sinsuwong. protest.”
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE UNITED PEOPLE ASSEMBLY OF THAILAND
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Wednesday, July 8, 2009
DAILY XPRESS
EAT IN
9
A brush with BBQ greatness For sensational sauces, be bold, be daring – but don’t lose your balance
A Texas-style hickory-smoked brisket pairs well with a sauce made with strong coffee and chillies.
LOS ANGELES TIMES PHOTO
Grilled flank steak with chimichurri sauce.
Grilled pork steak with fennel is a delicious alternative to a more expensive steak.
By Noelle Carter LOS ANGELES TIMES
W
Grilled flank steak, peppers and onions.
hen it comes to barbecuing, it’s often a thoughtfully honed sauce that separates the masters from the casual cooks. At once sweet, sour and spicy, the best sauces achieve a controlled balance of what might initially seem like contradictory flavours. Most traditional barbecue sauces are tomato-based, but they can also start with vinegar, mustard, broth and even mayonnaise. From there, add ingredients one or two at a time and taste carefully. Sweeten with sugar or maple syrup or brown sugar. Give the sauce a tart note with vinegar or citrus juice or zest. Consider fresh or ground spices and herbs, and adjust the heat with fresh or dried peppers or hot sauce. Then season with a little salt or soy or Worcestershire sauce. Allow the mixture to cook slowly to give the ingredients time to marry. Finally, consider taking the sauce to the next level by adding fruit juice, coffee or cola, chillies, horseradish or an unusual spice.
Pecan-crusted spareribs with Kentucky-bourbon sauce. Liquid smoke can lend depth to a sauce, particularly when the meat is cooked on a stovetop grill or slow-cooked in an oven. One fun route is using liquor. For a Kentuckybourbon sauce, simmer onion and garlic in a couple cups of bourbon. The bourbon will mellow to buttery richness as the alcohol cooks off. A slightly sweet sauce is perfect over pecancrusted pork spareribs. Coat the ribs with a seasoned wet rub of Dijon mustard, brown sugar and chopped pecans, then cover and bake over low heat for two to three hours. Shortly before they’re done, uncover them and baste them with the barbecue sauce.
10 EVENTS
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
DAILY XPRESS
WHAT’S UP
see it! Night music New Orleans singer LaVerne Butler is at the Millennium Hilton Bangkok’s Three Sixty Jazz Lounge until July 21, performing bluesy bebop in the style of Sarah Vaughn. Settle in for an evening of indulgence with Butler’s cool vocals Tuesday through Sunday. Call (02) 442 2000.
Tinkling the ivories South Korean pianist Juyeon Kang returns to the ThaiGerman Cultural Foundation Auditorium on Monday for a programme that includes works by Bach, Beethoven and Schumann. Tickets cost Bt400 (Bt200 for students) at Robinson Piano on the fifth floor of Siam Discovery Centre. Call (02) 581 0801.
Facing up to anonymity New Zealand-born, Australiabased artist Godwin Bradbeer has his first solo show in Bangkok with “Portraits in Exile” at the Ardel Gallery of Modern Art from July 16 to August 20. Central to this exhibition are recent works under the theme “Imago”, which continue the artist’s preoccupation with the frontalgazing face of an anonymous person, ambiguous in its description in terms of sex, race, age and character. The gallery is at 99/45 Belle Ville, Boromrachachon-nanee Road km 10.5, Thawee Wattana, Bangkok. It’s open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10.30 to 7 and Sunday until 5.30. Call (02)
ing pianist in Asia, join n w o d s le om from 9 y sett hawn Kelle Sukhumvit’s Living Ro S r e m m ru d de veteran jazz raton Gran club scene, as Triolive at the She 8353. rk o Y w e N e ien 49 career on th k Wongvich y brunch. Call (02) 6 After a long and bassist Therdsa a d n u S g n ri non t du Randy Can eps the bea live also ke o ri T . y tl h ig
riolive T h t i w p Jazzed u n
sia e Art e n o d n I y Art ay to August 8, La LantadoFninesian
rd In From Satu tings by five their take ost to pain s h re g tu n a yi fe la p is nctures” Ju l ca anges in ti e o l d cultura ch memoartists. “P n a l a ic lit o of al, p hts the role llery is on the soci and highlig ga y e tr h n u T . co ry ir the to histo n io ct e n n 0583. ry and its co Soi 31. Call (02) 204 it v m u on Sukh
Heavenly fungusle, the most luxurious
422 2092 or visit www. ArdelGallery.com.
A safe place Until Saturday, Gallery Ver
presents “Safe Place in the Future” with artworks that criticise the handling of global crises. Works by Nipan Oranniwesa, Kata Sangkhae, Chakkrit Chimnok, Aphiwat Sangpattaseema, Supitcha Tovivich and Supapong Laodheerasiri address the concept of a “safe place”. The gallery is on the second floor of Klongsan Plaza on Charoenakon Road and is open Tuesday to Saturday from 1 to 7. Call (02) 861 0933 or visit wwwVerVer.info.
Loving spoonfuls With 17 years of wedding experience, the Sukhothai Bangkok is ready to help plan the perfect day. Join the team on July 25 from 10 to 8 for this year’s Wedding Fair and revel an array of wedding styles, trends, gowns, jewellery, cakes and floral decorations. Every couple registering during the fair receives a plethora of benefits including a one-night stay in a Sa Sala Pool Villa at the Yia Ya Hua Hin and the chance to win fabulous prizes. Call (02) 344 8888.
uff The black tr market, is in the spote th n Bangkok’s fungus o ontinental hef Jess rC te In e th t light a ine Bar. C oria and W Grossi Tratt cured a massive 200 will pro s d a n h a s ia e n rn a a B om Tasm fr n e m ci xt e e gram sp over the n his bounty u that be sharing en a special m arnaroli risotweek with sC a s ch dishe prosincludes su truffle and ck la b n ia n a sm to of Ta price from es range in ecco. Entre ,500 and contain Bt1 lack trufBt1,200 to grams of b ve fi ly te a approxim 44. 2) 656 04 fle. Call (0
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
THE SCREEN 11
DAILY XPRESS
TO SEE
in cinemas tomorrow
>> Cape No 7 – A struggling
Wongkam lao Fo
No 1 Part 1 Public Enemy epic biographical drama about
r his latest d irectorial effo Jokmok” Wo rt, comedian ngkamlao p Petchtai “M arodies soap head of a co operas, playi um mically dysfu ng the n “Jakkrajan” Suwansuk a ctional wealthy family. Akamsiri nd Apaporn English sub Nakonsawn titles in so star. With me cinema
power. stars in this vering his rise to Vincent Cassel co e, rin es M s Jacque h and ch with Englis French gangster so stars. In Fren al u ie rd pa De Gérard do. at Thai subtitles
s.
the Li
rock singer and a model form a band in this smash-hit Taiwanese romantic comedy. At House. >> Banlieu 13: Ultimatum –
French action stars David Belle and Cyril Raffaelli are back with more urban acrobatics. >> The Secret of Moonacre
Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs The talking prehistoric mammals address family issues as they contend with giant reptiles. In 3-D in some cinemas.
Largo Winch The brash hero from a long-running Belgian comic comes to the big screen. Tomer Sisley stars. With English and Thai subtitles at SFW CentralWorld. ★★★
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen Young Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf) again finds himself at
Apex Lido: (02) 252 6498 Siam: (02) 251 3508 Scala: (02) 251 2861
Century – The Movie Plaza (02) 247 9940
House (02) 641 5177-8
Major Cineplex/EGV Bangkok: (02) 515 5555
Major Hollywood Bangkok: (02) 718 7999
Paragon Cineplex Bangkok: (02) 129 4635 IMAX: (02) 129 4631
SF Cinemas Bangkok: (02) 268 8888
UMG RCA: (02) 641 5913-14
the centre of a war between giant alien robots and lots of things that explode. Megan Fox also stars. Also at IMAX. ★★
Departures An unemployed musician finds a new calling in a taboo profession as an “encoffineer”. In Japanese with English and Thai subtitles at the Siam and House. ★★★★
Fireflies in the Garden A family gathers after a fatal car accident, stirring painful childhood memories for the son of a domineering father. At SFW CentralWorld. ★★
Up
17 Again
Pixar’s latest animation has an elderly man and a little boy embarking on an adventure in a flying, helium-balloon-equipped house. In digital 3-D in some
A man gets an awkward second chance to experience his teenage years. Zac Efron stars. ★★★
cinemas. ★★★★
Anuban Dek Khong The overgrown leader of a kindergarten gang is overcome with a crush on a high-school girl. With English subtitles at some cinemas. ★★★
Roommate Flatmates form a rock band, but their friendship is tested when a new singer is brought in. No subtitles.
Home A sobering perspective of our planet. At the Lido. ★★★★
Gomorra Five stories of lives touched by organised crime in Naples. In Italian with English and Thai subtitles at House. ★★★★★
Let the Right One In
– An orphaned girl is at the centre of an ancient feud in this children’s fantasy. >> Cheri – Michelle Pfeiffer stars in this costume comedy as a courtesan with a taste for younger men. At Apex. >> Ninja – A Westerner trained in ninja arts is tasked with protecting an armoured chest. At SF Cinemas.
on tv
A boy befriends a girl vampire. In Swedish with English and Thai subtitles at House. ★★★★
Nang Mai (Nymph) Director Pen-ek Ratanaruang follows a young married couple into the jungle, where a mysterious tree makes their troubled relationship even more dire. Nopachai Jayanama stars. With English subtitles at some cinemas. “Cannes Version” at SFW CentralWorld and Paragon Cineplex, “Director’s Cut” elsewhere. ★★★★
Penelope Christina Ricci stars as the daughter of socialites who’s afflicted by a secret family curse that can only be broken when she is truly loved. Star Movies (TrueVisions), 9.50pm
Channel links www.NationChannel.com Channel 3 – www.ThaiTV3.com Channel 5 – www.TV5.co.th Channel 7 – www.CH7.com Modernine – www.MCOT.net NBT – TV11.prd.go.th TV Thai – www.ThaiPBS.or.th True – www.TrueVisionsTV.com
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
12 LEISURE Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Comics&Games
DAILY XPRESS
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
DAILY XPRESS
LEISURE
Games&YourStars SUDOKU
The last word in
ASTROLOGY
Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer
By Eugenia Last
Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.
Today’s Birthday: A partnership will have practical implications but a strong emotional connection will make it work. Speak your mind and you will get what you want. You must not allow anyone to get the upper hand. Being prepared for whatever comes your way will be your saving grace. ARIES ** March 21-April 19 Getting help may be difficult. You are usually so self-sufficient that no one ever thinks about what you might need. Don’t despair; just broaden your time line so you don’t feel as pressured. TAURUS ***** April 20-May 20 Take on extra tasks and show everyone how capable you can be when something needs to get done. You will fool someone who has been trying to take advantage of you by meeting a deadline.
DIFFICULTY RATING ★★★
GEMINI *** May 21-June 20 A relationship can lead to setbacks if you neglect your responsibilities. Take care of business or someone who wants to make you look bad will take advantage of your shortcomings. CANCER *** June 21-July 22 If you are willing to put in your two-cents worth, you will get what’s owed to you in return. Your ideas will be considered by someone looking to make long-term changes. LEO *** July 23-Aug. 22 Get involved in something you believe in and you will make a great connection that will help you out personally and professionally. A money making scheme may not be all it’s made out to be. VIRGO ***** Aug. 23-Sept. 22 As much as you think you have a handle on a situation you face, you probably do not. A loved one will disappoint you if you let him or her make a decision that will affect you as well.
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY
LIBRA ***** Sept. 23-Oct. 22 Follow your intuition, not what someone else is trying to convince you to do. An emotional issue can be put to rest with compassion. Your strength will make others bend to your requests. SCORPIO ** Oct. 23-Nov. 21 You may want to cover your back and avoid anyone trying to coerce you into doing something you don’t feel good about. Talks will allow you to come up with an agreement you can live with. SAGITTARIUS **** Nov. 22-Dec. 21 Take on a new challenge and you will get to know someone who has had experiences that can help you resolve your current situations. An interesting relationship will develop.
Amy Klinprathum Singer Steve Lawrence is 74. Actor Jeffrey Tambor is 65. Actress Anjelica Huston is 58. Actor Kevin Bacon is 51. Country singer Toby Keith is 48. Keyboardist Andy Fletcher is 48. Actor Billy Crudup is 41. Actor Michael Weatherly is 41. Actor Milo Ventimiglia is 32. Actress Amy Klinprathum is 28. Actress Sophia Bush is 27. Actor Jaden Smith is 11.
CAPRICORN *** Dec. 22-Jan. 19 Problems with legal concerns, contracts or finances can be brought to the attention of whoever is causing you grief and can be resolved. Your ability to get things done will help you force issues. AQUARIUS *** Jan. 20-Feb. 18 Put your heart and soul on the line and you will get a response that will allowing you to make some essential alterations to your home and lifestyle. You’ll face opposition but refuse to budge. PISCES *** Feb. 19-March 20 Keep a relationship you are interested in starting under wraps for now. Love is on the rise but, before you can let a romance develop, you must get your life in order and issues with past partners resolved.
13
PECI-THAI Co., Ltd. is a member of Singaporean PEC Group, a specialist engineering group, servicing the oil & gas, petrochemical, pharmaceutical and oil & chemical terminal industries. PECI-THAI's core business includes erection & installation of mechanical, electrical and instrumentation, project & site management and maintenance & turnaround services. In line with our expansion/growth, we are seeking qualified and experienced personnel in the following positions:
1) Mechanical Operation Manager • Minimum 10-15 years construction management experience in mechanical field for power plant, oil & gas construction. • Any nationality with fluency in English. • Strong commercial & business orientation; good knowledge of technical field. • Good track record in many projects worth over THB 100 million, over seas experience will be an advantage. • Minimum Bachelor's degree in Engineering and able to work in Rayong and Chonburi areas.
2) Project Managers and/or Site Managers (for M, E and I) • Minimum 5-10 years construction management experience in mechanical, electrical and/or instrumentation installation fields for power plant, oil & gas, process plant constructions. • Strong leadership and systematic working with various levels. • Thai nationality with good command of English. • Minimum Bachelor's degree in Engineering.
3) Project Engineers (for M, E and I) • Minimum 3-5 years experience as a project engineer for mechanical and/or E & I works. • Bachelor's degree in Engineering. • Good technical knowledge and skills in the construction fields.
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4) Superintendents and Supervisors (for M, E and I) • Minimum 3-5 years experience in construction fields in M, E and/or I. • Able to work in various site locations. • Good knowledge and hands on personality.
5) Planner and Cost Controller Engineers (for M, E and I) • • • •
Minimum 3 years experience in M, E and I. Thai nationality with Bachelor's degree in Engineering. Able to use Microsoft Project and AutoCAD. Good communication skill in English both speaking and writing.
Interested person please e-mail your CV, day time contact number and expected salary to our Human Resources Division at rungsanr@peci-thai.com or somjait@peci-thai.com or mail your credentials to PECI-THAI Co., Ltd. 1/9 Jaroenpattana Rd., Huay Pong, Muang, Rayong 21150.
Big C Supercenter PCL, Thailand's leading hypermarket, is looking for highly motivated men and women to join our professional team of more than 14,000 employees working in our Headquarters Office in Bangkok and in Big C stores throughout Thailand.
Come to join the Big C Management Team in any of the following open positions:
1. Store General Manager ✔ ✔ ✔
Bachelor’s degree or higher in Business Administration or related fields At least 8 years experience in retail business with 3 years as a store manager in large hypermarket store, proven track record of successes required Good command of both spoken and written English
2. Assistant General Manager/Division Manager/Department Manager 2.1 Fresh Food Division 2.2 Dry Food Division 2.3 General Merchandise Division ✔ Bachelor’s degree in any field ✔ At least 5 years experience in retail business ✔ Good knowledge of each product category 2.4 Customer Service Division/Department ✔ Bachelor’s degree in any field ✔ At least 3 years experience in retail business in the area of customer service, cashier and invoice & claim 2.5 Replenishment Division/Department ✔ Bachelor’s degree in any field ✔ At least 3 years experience in retail business in the area of inventory control and goods receiving 2.6 Maintenance Division/Department ✔ Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering ✔ At least 3 years experience in retail business in the area of all maintenance services such as water, electrical, air-conditioning and telephone systems 2.7 Plaza Division/Department ✔ Bachelor’s degree in any field ✔ At least 3 years experience in retail business in the area of rental space and tenancy services Qualifications for all positions ➢ Strong leadership with very good people skills ➢ Open minded, strong negotiation and communication skills ➢ Good interpersonal skills, flexibility and financially competent ➢ Able to relocate and work on shift schedule ➢ Good command of both spoken and written English would be an advantage ➢ Computer literacy As a member of the Big C team, you will enjoy participating in a competitive package of salary, annual bonus, incentive bonus (in some jobs), and a benefits package which will provide financial security to both you and your family - now and in the future. Interested applicants are invited to apply in person or send their application with full resume indicating qualifications and experience, transcript, current & expected salary and recent photo to:
Human Resources Division (Recruitment Dept.) Big C Supercenter Public Co., Ltd. 6th Floor, 97/11 Rajdamri Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 E-mail: recruit@bigc.co.th Website: www.bigc.co.th
For For sale sale & & Lease Lease 1) 675-3,330 sq.m. 2) 1,200 sq.m. 3) 1,620 sq.m. 4) 2.3 rais Raw land 5) 700-1,000 sq.m. 6) 1,620 sq.m. 7) 2,500-5,000 sq.m. 8) 1,000-8,500 sq.m.
Tel:
: Laem Chabang Industrial Estate, Chonburi (EPZ) : Amata Industrial Estate, Chonburi : Lard Krabang Industrial Estate, (EPZ) : Lard Krabang Industrial Estate, (EPZ) : King Kaew Project, km.12 : Hi-Tech Industrial Estate, Ayuthaya : Tonglow Industrial Land, Chonburi : Samutprakarn Factory
02-676-4031-5, 081-732-8242 http://www.tfd-factory.com
COURSE MEMBERSHIP EXCHANGE CENTRE THE FIRST IN THAILAND Tel: 081-5555888, 081-5555999 02-259-0980-5 www.thaigolfcentre.com
BUY 1.Bangpra International 2.Krungthep Kreetha 1,700,000 3.Muang Ake 1 350,000 4.Bangpakong Riverside 5.Tanya Thanee 140,000 6.Spring Field -
SELL 145,000 185,000 150,000 365,000
24 GAMES
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
THE SPORT
DAILY XPRESS
22-1 Chase Utley hit a three-run homer and Shane Victorino and Greg Dobbs had tworun shots, leading Philadelphia to a victory over Cincinnati.
TENNIS
briefly
Huntelaar
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson is preparing a £20 million bid for Real Madrids Klaas Jan Huntelaar, the Sun reports. Ferguson is ready to match the price Madrid paid Ajax for the Dutch striker in the January transfer period after losing out to the Spanish club on signing Lyon’s Karim Benzema. The 25-year-old Huntelaar failed to earn a regular spot in Spain, scoring eight goals in 20 league matches. – Bloomberg
Blackburn bid for Van Nistelrooy Sam Allardyce has made a bid to bring Ruud van Nistelrooy to Blackburn from Real Madrid, the Sun reported. Van Nistelrooy, 33, earns £120,000 per week and would have to take a pay cut to join Rovers, said the paper. He’s likely to be one of several players leaving after the Spanish club’s spending spree this off-season. Allardyce is desperate to sign a big-name forward after selling Roque Santa Cruz to Manchester City and Matt Derbyshire to Olympiakos, said the Sun. Former Italy striker Christian Vieri, 35, is on trial with Blackburn during their pre-season training in Austria, though a permanent deal is a long shot, the paper added. – Bloomberg
Lescott next in City’s sights Manchester City will turn their attention to Everton’s England defender Joleon Lescott after failing to lure John Terry from Chelsea, the Daily Mirror said. City manager Mark Hughes has already made one informal approach for Lescott and will now offer more than his initial effort of around £15 million, the Mirror said. Lescott is loyal to Everton manager David Moyes, but City are prepared to triple his salary to about £90,000 per
week, the newspaper said. City made a £40 million bid for England captain Terry, which has been rejected, according to UK media reports. – Bloomberg
Sunderland target hit man Crouch New Sunderland manager Steve Bruce is prepared to pay up to £14 million for Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch as he looks to make an impact signing, the Crouch Guardian said. Crouch has become Bruce’s top priority and would be a record signing for Sunderland, surpassing the £9 million paid for goalkeeper Craig Gordon. – Bloomberg
Toyota put brakes on Grand Prix The global economic crisis dealt a fresh blow to Formula One racing as Toyota Motor pulled out of hosting the Japanese Grand Prix at its Fuji Speedway circuit from next year. The track hosted the Japanese Grand Prix for the first time in 30 years in 2007, and again in 2008. It had been slated to host the 2010 race.
EPA
Ferguson prepares bid for Huntelaar
Roger Federer’s match on Sunday brought him a record-breaking 15th Grand Slam title.
A HISTORY FREAK Federer on eyeing records: ‘It can freak you out’ AP, Wimbledon, England
S
o many milestones arise seemingly every time Roger Federer steps on court. The 2009 Wimbledon final against Andy Roddick was no different, and not merely because they played a 16-14 fifth set and 77 games total, records for any Grand Slam championship match. Federer’s victory gave him 15 Grand Slam titles, one more than the career mark he shared with Pete Sampras. It came in Federer’s seventh consecutive title match at the All England Club and 20th major final, two more records. It gave Federer six Wimbledon championships, one short of the record. It returned Federer to No 1 in the rankings. “It can freak you out,” Federer said in an interview yesterday as he reclined on a leather couch. “It’s a test, and that’s why I like to go over these records: ‘What’s on the line? Okay. No problem. I’ve heard them now.’ You read them quickly for a few minutes, and then you know,” he said. So here, then, is what Federer
does: He finds out about the various important matters – history-making matters – at stake heading into a particular match. He does this homework a day or so ahead of time, absorbs it all, then does his best to put it out of his mind when the ball is in play. “You think about it for the rest of the day. But then the shock’s gone, at least,” Federer explained. “And then, maybe the next day, when the match comes around, you’re all right, focusing again on forehands and backhands and serves.” No one ever has managed that last part better at as many major tournaments. That he can repeatedly summon the stamina – he and Roddick played for 4 hours, 16 minutes – and strokes to keep winning, day after day, tournament after tournament, is all the more impressive when you consider the expectations that come with being Roger Federer. And he knows about those expectations, and his achievements, as well as anyone. “It’s important to face it, not say, ‘Oooh, I don’t want to hear about it.’ Because it’s there. It’s reality,” Federer said. “And I always say, ‘You’ve got to be able to handle it.”’ He’ll make passing references
to his various achievements, pointing out before Sunday’s match, for example, that it would represent his sixth consecutive Grand Slam final. Or noting on Monday that he’s participated in 16 of the past 17 Grand Slam finals. To some that might seem arrogant. But it isn’t if you can back it up. And that’s what Federer keeps doing, at a remarkable rate: Sampras’ 14 Majors were won over a span of 12 years; Federer’s 15 have come in a six-year span. Against Roddick, Federer smacked a career-high 50 aces, but he had the toughest time trying to break the American’s vaunted serve. Federer was able to win the second and third sets thanks to tiebreakers, but Wimbledon – unlike the US Open – doesn’t use tiebreakers in fifth sets. So heading into that final set on Sunday, Federer knew that he had to break Roddick to win. “It played on my mind,” Federer said. “Going into the fifth, I knew, ‘Well, this is not where a tiebreak is going to save me here, Rog.’ I knew I needed to break him eventually. ... And you’re, like, ‘How am I ever going to get a break point? He’s serving massive.’ He really made it difficult for me.”
THE SPORT 25
DAILY XPRESS
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Carvalho wants to quit Chelsea
FOOTBALL
DREAM BECOMES REAL-ITY Ronaldo fulfils childhood wish as record crowd greets him at Madrid AFP, Madrid
ristiano Ronaldo said on Monday he had fulfilled a “childhood dream” as he was officially unveiled as a Real Madrid player before a recordsetting capacity crowd of nearly 80,000 people at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium. “I am very happy to be here,” the 24-year-old Portuguese winger said after completing his long desired move to the club from Manchester United. “For me it is the realisation of a childhood dream, which was to play for Real Madrid. I never expected the stadium would be full just to see me. It is impressive,” he added. Club officials said the event had smashed the previous record for attendance at the unveiling of a footballer set in July 1984 when Diego Maradona was presented at Naples after signing from Barcelona before 75,000 people. Real acquired the player from Manchester last month on a sixyear deal worth ¤94 million and he will reportedly be paid ¤13 million each season, making him the most expensive player in the world. Ronaldo, the 2008 Fifa world player of the year, said he was “proud” to be the world’s best paid footballer and would do all he could to help the team win the Champions League. “I want to prove that they paid the right price for me,” he told a lengthy news conference after he was unveiled where he fielded questions in English,
,,
AFP
C
Real Madrid’s new signing Cristiano Ronaldo juggles with the ball before an adoring crowd. Spanish and Portuguese. “We have a great team, a great coach, and we have to take it step by step. We have a really good chance to win the Champions League,” he added. Real, Spain’s historically most successful team, last won the Champions League in 2002. Ronaldo wore the black and white Number 9 jersey once sported by club legend Alfredo di Stefano during his unveiling. The Argentine striker, Real’s honorary president, was present at the unveiling as was Portuguese legend and former Real player Eusebio. The number 9 jersey was recently vacated by Argentine striker Javier Saviola who
FOR ME IT IS THE REALISATION OF A CHILDHOOD DREAM, WHICH WAS TO PLAY FOR REAL MADRID. Cristiano Ronaldo joined Portuguese side Benfica last month. While Ronaldo wanted to
keep the number 7 which he used during his six years at Manchester, that number is already taken by Real captain Raul. “Nine is a mythical number at the club. The numbers don’t play. It is me who is going to play and I am going to play well,” he said. Fans, many equipped with food and drinks to ease a lengthy wait, starting gathering at the stadium hours before the official presentation, which lasted about 30 minutes, got underway at 9pm. Real president Florentino Perez praised Ronaldo’s “professionalism and talent” who is capable of taking the club to “the peak of world football”.
Portugal centre-back Ricardo Carvalho has reiterated his desire to leave Chelsea in an interview published in yesterday’s Corriere dello Sport. The 31-year-old former Porto defender had a miserable season in London last time out, largely due to injuries which saw him lose his place in the Chelsea team. And now he has set his heart on a move away from Stamford Bridge with Inter his preferred destination, although the two teams cannot agree on a fee. “I want to start a new cycle in my career, I feel ready to do so,” he said. “I have spoken to Chelsea’s bosses and they know what I want, we’ll see what happens now. “I’ve been in London for five years and I’ve had some great times. I won many things and the only thing that was missing was the Champions League, which last year [2008] escaped us only on penalties. “The first four seasons were fantastic but the last one was really difficult. It’s only right that our paths [his and Chelsea’s] separate.” Carvalho has a very clear idea of where he wants to go to and more or less ruled out a move to moneybags Manchester City, who have reportedly offered three times more than Inter to try to secure his services. “My agent Jorge Mendes knows what I want. If I leave Chelsea I only want to play for a top club, otherwise I’ll stay in London and respect my contract,” he added. AFP
Bayern issue Ribery ultimatum to Real DPA, Munich
AFP
R
Franck Ribery during a training session in Munich yesterday.
eal Madrid have nine days to come up with ¤80 million if they want France star Franck Ribery from German club Bayern Munich, the Bild daily reported yesterday. Bild said that Bayern issued this ultimatum because they want the issue settled, one way or another, by the July 16 start of a pre-season training camp. The Bundesliga season starts on August 7 while the
transfer period runs until August 31. France star Ribery came to Munich in 2007 and has a contract until 2011. He has been quoted as saying that he wants to leave, but only for Real. The Spanish giants Real are on the biggest summer spending spree in football history. They have already spent around ¤210 million on star signings, among them Cristiano Ronaldo (¤94 mil-
lion) and Kaka (¤65 million). Real have long been interested in Ribery and have so far reportedly offered Munich ¤64 million for him. But Munich are said to insist on a fee of 80 million.
Valdes extends contract Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes has agreed to extend his contract with European champions Barcelona until June 2014, the club said.
The 27-year-old, Barcelona's first-choice keeper, has been at the club since 2002 and his current contract was due to expire in 2010. The talks over the contract extension had reportedly been bogged down due to the player’s demand for a higher salary. Spain's sports media has reported that Valdes had demanded a salary of ¤9 million per season but finally agreed to a salary of around 7 million.
26
THE SPORT
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
VO L L E Y B A L L
CRICKET
THAIS GET A BEATING Belgians prove just too strong for the host girls By Preechachan Wiriyanupappong DAILY XPRESS, Nakhon Ratchasima
XPRESS
H
osts Thailand found European champions Belgium a hard nut to crack and went down tamely 25-12 25-21 25-21 in the second round of the Girls’ Youth U18 Volleyball World Championship at The Mall’s MCC Hall yesterday. Playing in the round of eight finalists that also includes Brazil, Japan, Italy, Serbia, Peru and Turkey, the hosts were no match for Belgium, who were powered by the hard-hitting Lise van Hecke – the championship’s “Golden Fist” with 76 points, including 66 deadly spikes. “Belgium played exceptionally well. We couldn’t match them tactically or technically. It didn’t help that some of my players were sick. We are hop-
DAILY XPRESS
Thailand’s Pornpun Guedpard sets the ball up for the spikers.
ing they will recover in time for the next match, against Turkey,” said Thai head coach Sanong Kulchim, adding that he’s optimistic about the game. “We got a 1-1 draw in a warmup match against Peru. The same Peru team put up a tough fight against Turkey and only narrowly lost 3-2. “I’m optimistic that the girls will be more competitive against Turkey. “They have to regroup and start afresh. They have to improve in all aspects of their game,” Sanong said. Elsewhere, Serbia came back to beat Asian champions Japan 3-2 (22-25 17-25 25-21 26-24 1510), Brazil thrashed Peru 3-0 (25-19 25-19 25-16) Among the lower-ranked teams, Germany beat the USA 3-0 (26-24 25-20 25-13), Mexico crushed Egypt 3-0 (25-18 25-12 25-8) and the Dominican Republic stunned defending and three-time world champions China 3-2 (22-25 25-22 25-18 21-25 15-6).
Lanka spin a win over Pakistan A F P , Galle, Sri Lanka
R
angana Herath skittled Pakistan with his leftarm spin to hand Sri Lanka a dramatic, 50-run victory in the first cricket Test yesterday. Herath grabbed 4-15 as Pakistan, chasing a modest target of 168, collapsed from a seemingly impregnable 71-2 to 117 all out in their second innings before lunch on the fourth day. Fast bowler Thilan Thushara and spinner Ajantha Mendis chipped in with two wickets each as a jittery Pakistan lost their last eight batsmen for 46 runs at the Galle International Stadium. The brilliant win gave Sri Lanka a 1-0 lead in the three-Test series, the first between the two nations since gunmen attacked the Sri Lankan team bus in the Pakistani city of Lahore on March 3.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
THE SPORT 27
DAILY XPRESS
TENNIS
BACK TO THE TOP Noppawan regains junior world No 1 spot after cleaning up at Wimbledon By Lerpong Amsa-ngiam D A I LY X P R E S S
hai sensation Noppawan Lertcheewakarn reclaimed the world junior No 1 spot after dominating the girls events at the Wimbledon. The 2008 world junior No 1, who lost her throne to French Open champion Kristina Mladenovic of France, climbed three spots from No 4 to the pinnacle. She upset Mladenovic in the girls’ singles final at the All England Club before winning the doubles trophy along with Australian partner Sally Peers. The 17-year-old finally proved she deserved the No 1 ranking after finishing top in 2008 without winning a Major singles title. She was a runnerup in the Wimbledon singles
AFP
T
Noppawan Lertcheewakarn lets her racquet do the talking. last year and won the US Open doubles title. “I know that some people had questioned my position. But now I’ve proved that I truly deserve to be No 1. Actually I can’t stop people from the way they think, but the Wimbledon singles title spoke for me,” said Noppawan who has 1,322.50 points against sec-
ond-placed Mladenovic’s 1,313.75 points. Noppawan is expected to get a huge welcome from fans and media when she returns to Bangkok this afternoon. She said she is looking forward to eating her father’s northern cooking as soon as she gets home. “My dad’s food is the best.
It’s so good that I can’t stop eating it and I often put on weight when I’m at home. But I think I will also be very busy with other stuff,” said Noppawan, who has a tight schedule, with newspapers, magazines and television stations waiting to interview the new junior tennis queen. Meanwhile Tamarine Tanasugarn, who is taking a six-week break from the tour to nurse her injured right elbow, slumped from No 47 to 82 in the newly released women’s rankings. Tammy’s hopes of repeating her run to the quarter-finals at last year’s Wimbledon were dashed when she was knocked out in the first round. Elsewhere, Danai Udomchoke’s return to the ATP tour in Newport, USA, was cut short on Monday when he lost to India’s Prakash Amritraj 6-1 6-4 in the first round of the US$500,000 Hall of Fame Tennis Championships.
Montcourt found dead AP, Paris
F
rench tennis player Mathieu Montcourt has died. He was 24. The French tennis federation said yesterday that Montcourt had died overnight but that “the causes of his death are not yet known”. French media earlier reported that Montcourt, ranked 119, was found dead by his girlfriend in the stairwell of his Paris apartment. In May, Montcourt was handed a five-week ban and fined $12,000 for betting on other matches. That ban took effect on Monday. Montcourt complained during the French Open that the punishment was too harsh, saying that he never bet more than $3 at any time, and never on his own matches – a fact confirmed by the ATP which oversees the men’s Tour. The Court of Arbitration for Sport said Montcourt had wagered a total of $192 on 36 tennis events in 2005. It reduced his suspension on appeal from eight weeks to five.