Pattaya Mail Friday Nov 21 Nov 27, 2014 (Vol XXII No 47)

Established in 1993

VOL.XXII No. 47

Pattaya’s First English Language Newspaper

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21 - NOVEMBER 27, 2014

21st Anniversary

2,600 monks raise alms for embattled brethren

30 BAHT

Thousands of Buddhists turned out to give alms to 2,600 monks on a mission to help temples in Thailand’s troubled south during a huge merit-making event in front of Pattaya City Hall Nov. 15. Rice, dried food and necessities were donated to support a nationwide drive by a million monks to provide relief to 323 embattled Buddhist temples in Songkla, Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani provinces. (Full story on page 5)

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Jomtien Beach Road one-way plan stopped before it begins Urasin Khantaraphan Pattaya officials abruptly canceled plans to turn Jomtien Beach Road into a one-way street, citing possible tourist confusion during high season.

Deputy Mayor Ronakit Ekasingh announced on Nov. 13 - the day after the one-way system was supposed to begin as a onemonth test project - that the new traffic plan was dropped due to the anticipated start of construction of a subterranean Central Road bypass under Sukhumvit Road.

Nearly two kilometers of Sukhumvit will be affected during the initial phase of construction, which had been expected to start this month. One lane of traffic will be closed and drivers encouraged to use alternate routes, including the railway access road, Thepprasit Road and Soi Chaiyapruek in

Jomtien Beach, Ronakit said.

Soi Chaiyapruek would receive all the southbound traffic that would normally flow on Beach Road if the Jomtien traffic plan had been implemented.

Ronakit and Pattaya Police admitted the city does not have enough traffic officers to manage the Sukhumvit detours and the fallout from the change to one-way, so the plan was dropped.

Neither the start of tunnel construction nor the onset of high season was a surprise, however. Local officials who announced the one-month, one-way test Aug. 26 knew both were coming. But the project was approved anyway in October during a closed-door meeting between Banglamung District Chief Sakchai Taengho and local officials, police and businesses.

If implemented, traffic

Jomtien Beach Road seen from Dongtan Police station - officials cancelled plans to convert the road to one-way, at least until after the high season. would have flowed one-way loop at Chaiyapruek Road.

Attendees at that meeting from the Hanuman curve to Northbound traffic would - who included residents, Soi Chaiyapruek Road, a have run along Jomtien Sec- minivan operators, the distance of two kilometers. ond Road. There would be Pattaya Business & Tourism Traffic would have moved only three wide and five mi- Association and Prasert south toward Sattahip and nor sois providing connec- Jaikla, of the 14th Military tions between Beach and Circle - raised numerous obSecond roads. jections to the proposal.

Sakchai justified the idea at They pointed out that, unthe Aug. 26 meeting by say- like Pattaya, where Second ing the move - done decades Road is located relatively ago on Pattaya Beach Road - close to Beach Road, the main would double the number of connections between Jomtien one-way plan will be revived lanes vehicles can use and Beach and Second roads are once high season has allow tour buses, minivans the much-longer Chaiyapruek ended, he said. and taxis to stop without and Bunkachana streets.

Members of the Pattaya blocking half the traffic lanes. That, they said, will make Transport Cooperative, which runs the city’s network of baht buses, then took the floor to vent their grievances about competing taxis from outside Bangkok, illegally modified baht buses and unlicensed taxis.

They said some private operators were modifying pickup trucks to work as “songthaews” while “black license plate” taxis were parking illegally at shopping centers and hotels, scooping up passengers that otherwise might go to the cooperative.

They also complained about non-Pattaya taxis setting up booths to sell services locally.

Police officials and the NCPO’s Popanan suggested that co-op members report incidents when they see them so police can enforce the law and pass information onto the NCPO to draft reforms.

More complaints, few solutions offered at 10th traffic meeting Urasin Khantaraphan Meeting for the tenth time about Pattaya’s traffic and parking problems, area officials and business leaders made numerous complaints but offered no suggestions how to solve the long-running issues.

The latest meeting aimed at trying to resolve congestion and enforce initiatives, such as designated stopping zones for taxis and buses, drew the attention of the National Council for Peace and Order, which dispatched Col. Popanan Luengpanuwat from the 14th Military Circle in Chonburi to find out why so little progress has been made, despite the many meetings.

Popanan quizzed Banglamung District Chief Sakchai Taengho and Pattaya Deputy Mayor Ronakit Ekasingh why the previously announced plan to change Jomtien Beach Road was canceled before it even began.

Banglamung probes public-land encroachment on Koh Larn

The National Council for Peace and Order dispatched Col. Popanan Luengpanuwat from the 14th Military Circle in Chonburi to preside over the latest meeting about Pattaya’s traffic and parking problems.

Ronakit said that, despite the change being planned and announced more than a month in advance, the idea was dropped because the one-way system could cause more traffic jams and confusion during the justbegun high season. The

Pattaya spending 11 million baht to rebuild south end of Sukhumvit Road Jetsada Homklin Pattaya has received more than 11 million baht in funding to resurface Sukhumvit Road in South Pattaya.

Inthana Construction Co. began work on the potholeridden, dilapidated highway between sois 69 and 75 Oct. 25. Work is scheduled to finish by the end of February.

During reconstruction, only two lanes are open for service. The construction will add another layer of steel-reinforced concrete plus asphalt, layered for strength and durability.

Deputy Mayor Verawat Khakhay said he’d received

transit times much longer and more difficult.

The road clearly was not ready for the change. On Nov. 13, Beach Road at the Hanuman intersection was littered with cars parked illegally on both sides of the street, presumably residents from a 30-story condominium there.

Tourists on Dongtan Beach said they were relived the change was not made, as they would have had to take a taxi through Jomtien Beach and back along Second Road, costing them time and money.

Others said it would have caused more traffic and congestion on side streets.

Another problem is that the road from Soi Chaiyapruek to the Lung Wai Restaurant is narrow and still used as twoway road, which would have caused a severe traffic jam.

Moreover, the drainage pipe-laying project on Chaiyapruek Road has not been completed, causing its own traffic woes.

Officials said they will meet again with police to better plan the one-way idea, although they said it likely would return in early 2015.

However, the tunnel project will run for the next three years and high season doesn’t end until April.

Banglamung District Chief Sakchai Taengho is investigating how developers of this hotel and restaurant under construction on Koh Larn’s Tawaen Beach gained approval for their project which is being built on public land.

Nopniwat Krailerg & Jetsada Homklin

Pattaya has hired Inthana Construction Co. to resurface Sukhumvit Road in South Pattaya. complains from many locals about the holes on that stretch of road near the police station. He said the city

is aware of the importance of a smooth commute, therefore, the city has allocated 11 million baht budget for the job.

Banglamung District officials are investigating how developers of a hotel and restaurant under construction on Koh Larn’s Tawaen Beach gained approval for their project which is being built illegally on public land.

District Chief Sakchai Taengho led land and forestry officials to inspect the building site next to the Pattaya administrative office on the island Nov. 12. They found the hotel and restaurant being built on 14 rai of land at the edge of a steep

hillside was 70 percent complete and fenced off.

A stop-work notice had been posted on the fence, but ignored by contractors until Sakchai showed up.

Representatives from Pummari Construction Ltd. cooperated and stopped work, but produced Land Department documentation claiming the development had been legally approved.

Sakchai, however, confirmed they were not. The

land is public and cannot be leased or sold for private use, he said.

The district chief said an investigation will be launched to find out whether the documents were genuine and, if they are, who authorized and approved them.

The investigation should take no more than 30 days, he said. If fraud or corruption is found, legal action will be taken, he vowed.

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FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014 3

Pattaya to spend 60 million baht Pattaya eyes Pratamnak Hill on 4 Beach Road drainage pipes for huge eco-tourism attraction

Deputy Mayor Verawat Khakhay conducts a survey along Puek Plub canal in Naklua to improve drainage efficiency in the Naklua market area.

Jetsada Homklin Pattaya will take 60 million baht of the money earmarked for rebuilding Pattaya Beach to solve shoreline flooding problems by installing up to four new drainage pipes.

At a Nov. 10 meeting, Deputy Mayor Verawat Khakhay confirmed the city will implement a variation of the suggestions made a week earlier

by Thanawat Jarupongsakul of the Chulalongkorn University Department of Geology, which has been the consultant to the city on the

Pattaya Beach refill project.

Thanawat said a 1.25-kilometer pipe, two meters wide, was needed running from the sea at Soi 6/1, the current site of four ineffective pumps.

A 200-meter-long pipe should be installed at the Dusit Curve to connect with the existing drainage network, and a 47meter connecting pipe at Walking Street, the site of another pump, he said.

Thanawat’s original estimate on installation of the pipes was 190 million baht.

Khakhay said the original proposal created concern

that such long drainage pipes would contradict the beach-refill project’s environmental impact report, which has already been approved. Therefore it was decided to shorten the pipes and install a fourth drainage pipe at Soi 10.

Moreover, the deputy mayor also commissioned a survey along Puek Plub canal in Naklua, which will be assisted by representatives from the New Naklua Market and Puek Plub canal communities, to add more channels for draining water.

Tourists gather near Bali Hai. Part of the Pratamnak Hill area that officials hope to turn into a huge eco-tourism attraction is seen in the background.

Jetsada Homklin Pattaya is considering turning a large section of Pratamnak Hill into an ecological tourist attraction with parks, bike routes, and scenic viewing areas.

Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome presided over the first of likely many hearings on the “Thappraya Royal Park” project Nov. 11 at the Seas o n Hotel Pattaya. The project will be debated in a series of meetings and, if approved, would start development in 2016.

K a n c h i t P h u b o o n l ab,

project manager for Feel Green Design Co, which has been hired by the city to write the feasibility study, said Pratamnak Hill, with its green acreage and natural viewpoints, is an ideal place to develop into a park attraction. However, he said, access to the prime areas has always been the problem.

The city, he said, is a welldeveloped tourist resort, but has only one real green area in the entire city: Pratamnak Hill. Undeveloped land there covers both mounts in the area and over 285 rai, including the area near the Tourist

Police station that has already been converted into a park.

“Thappraya Royal Park” would feature tram tracks, cycling routes, walking and wheelchair paths and viewpoints to overlook the city and bay.

Feel Green Design Co will develop studies on costs, benefits and environmental impact. The public will be given several chances to offer input at public hearings.

If approved, the city will seek funds from the national government to develop the eco-tourism attraction.

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Runaway crane causes pileup in North Pattaya

VOL. XXII No. 47

5 hospitalized when 6 tour buses collide on Highway 7

Teerarak Suthathiwong

Teerarak Suthathiwong

Numerous cars were damaged when an out-of-control crane smashed into four vehicles and a passenger bus on North Road.

No one was injured in the Nov. 13 crash near Sukhumvit Road, although a 78-yearold British man was lucky to escape with his life when the crane dislodged a street pylon which smashed into the driver’s side of his new Ford.

Prakarn Shongmhueng, the 29-year-old driver of the AEI Crane Co. crane, claimed the brakes failed and caused him to smash into two cars and two pickup trucks before smashing into the side of a Roong

Five people were hospitalized and about 300 other Chinese tourists received bumps and bruises when six tour buses collided on Highway 7 in Takientia.

The buses, apparently trailing each other two closely, smashed up accordion-style when the lead coach, driven

by Pan Sriha, 28, slammed on the brakes near the 108-109 kilometer marker.

Pan said a pickup truck in front of him braked unexpectedly and he had no time to stop before hitting it.

The truck, carrying driver Somchai Karnsap, 62, and his wife, Areewan Amsuwan, 54, was crumpled and pushed into a ditch. The driver of the second bus,

A 78-year-old British man was lucky to escape with his life when a street pylon smashed into the driver’s side of his new Ford during an accident involving a runaway crane on North Pattaya Road.

Ruang bus turning into the Pattaya Bus Terminal.

Police are reviewing CCTV

footage and questioning the driver as they investigate further.

Armored-car driver arrested in ATM theft Teerarak Suthathiwong An armored-car driver was arrested for allegedly stealing 2 million baht from an ATM he was supposed to restock.

Chaiyapruek Hunswad, an employee at Siam Administrative Management Co., was captured Nov. 11 after the robbery the day before at the Siam Commercial Bank ATM in a PTT gas station across from Tesco-Lotus in South Pattaya.

Samco provides cash management and armored transport for SCB and Chaiyapruek was transporting cash for the bank’s ATMs. Police said he admitted to stealing about 2 million baht

Fire ranged through a Banglamung plumbing-supply shop, causing about a million baht in damage, but no injuries.

About 30 firefighters and 10 trucks needed about 20 minutes to snuff out the flames at Thai Water Systems on

Somnuek Inban, 36, was trapped behind the wheel temporarily.

All three were injured.

They were transported to Banglamung Hospital for treatment.

By the time Khao Kheow Highway Police arrived, most of the 300 tourists were standing on the roadside.

Two tourists were seriously injured and transported to Banglamung Hospital.

Overzealous volunteer blamed for motorbike accident Boonlua Chatree

Chaiyapruek Hunswad admitted to stealing about 2 million baht from an ATM he was supposed to fill as part of his job. from the ATM. Police recovered Chaiyapruek was charged 1.8 million baht with the sus- with theft, endangering lives pect saying he’d spent some and property, and receiving on personal items already. stolen goods.

Fire causes million baht damage at plumbing-supply shop Boonlua Chatree

Five people were hospitalized and about 300 Chinese tourists received minor injuries when six tour buses collided on Highway 7 in Takientia.

Sukhumvit Soi 79 shop in Moo 13 village Nov. 10.

Owner Maythaphorn Seaitang, 29, said she was away from the shop and returned to find the fire burning on the mezzanine level.

She said she was puzzled how the blaze could have started as the area had no electrical wiring and was

used for storing equipment, including welding gear, an electrical generators and other machinery. No fuel was stored in the area and nothing flammable.

The fire caused about a million baht damage to the equipment, she said.

The cause of the fire is being investigated.

An overzealous civil-defense volunteer is being blamed for a motorbike accident that injured an 18-year-old on Sukhumvit Road.

Pongthep Bunserm, a worker at a wood factory in Rayong, was hurt when he collided with a BMW sedan Nov. 12 in South Pattaya.

Moments later, the volunteer, who legally has no arrest powers, slapped cuffs on the teen and hauled him away to police without seeking immediate treatment for his wounds.

Pongthep explained he and a friend were driving to a friend’s birthday party when the volunteer cut them off with his pickup truck and told them to pull over because their motorbike was too loud.

The teens fled, fearing arrest, and were pursued vigorously for 10 kilometers through back streets until the teens pulled out onto Sukhumvit and ran into the BMW,

An overzealous civil-defense volunteer is being blamed for this motorbike accident on Sukhumvit Road. with Pongthep sliding under the front wheels.

The teen explained the situation to the driver of the sedan, who decided not to press charges or seek compensation. But the BMW driver expressed exasperation at the civildefense volunteer, who came up and apprehended the teen and forcibly took him away.

More Nigerians arrested for Internet scam Teerarak Suthathiwong Chonburi Transnational Crime Coordination Center police have arrested four more Nigerians accused of scamming people out of cash in an Internet scam.

Anthony Chibuike Chukwu, 33, Charles Ikenna Nnadi, 29, Henry Onukwube Nwigwe, 27, and Martins Chimezie Nnenna, 30, were apprehended at a Soi Khao Talo residence Nov. 12. Police also seized computers and bank books.

Chonburi TCCC gathered evidence showing the four Nigerians posed as wealthy men and used a photo of a white skinned European claiming to have travelled to Thailand with enormous amount of US Dollars, but could not get through customs because they had to pay tax in Thai baht. A wealthy Thai women was contacted via Facebook with the promise that if she transferred the tax money to a designated bank account, they would

Four more Nigerians have been arrested, accused of scamming people out of cash in an Internet scam. guarantee her a large return on believes they have been her investment. The unnamed victim to this scam, to come Thai woman did transfer to Pattaya police station. cash to the bank account, The arrests came five days which the suspects had after Chigozie Nnamdi hired a Thai lady to open.

Nwaogu, 31 and Onyebuchi Police have initially charged Uchegbu, 34, were captured the Nigerians with visa vio- at a rented room on Soi lations, whilst they try to Mabyailia 10 and charged convince the victim to press with visa violations pending charges. Police also re- investigation into the susquest that anyone else who pected fraud.

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City announces annual longboat races on for this weekend Surasak Huasoon Thailand’s top longboat racers will compete for cash and prizes at the 14th Pattaya Traditional Longboat Tournament this weekend at Mabprachan Reservoir.

Pattaya and Nongprue officials announced plans for the Nov. 22-23 races Nov. 10.

They’ll feature long-boats with deep roots in Thai culture. Pong and Nongprue sub-districts, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, Royal Thai Navy, and Thailand Rowing and Canoeing Association will support the race.

Trophies will be awarded in six categories: Large boats (55 paddlers), longboats (30 paddlers), large boats types A and B, small boats type B and international boats (12

2,600 monks raise alms for embattled brethren

The 14th annual Pattaya Traditional Longboat Tournament takes place this weekend at Mabprachan Reservoir. paddlers). Nearly 400,000 baht in prizes will be awarded with the top prize totaling 100,000 baht.

Nongprue Mayor Mai Chaiyanit said the race, which has been held at the

venue since 2000, also will features other events, such as Thai Long Drum contest, buffalo races, a pig-catching competition, enduro motorcycle racing, and much more.

Dutch Swing College Band to promote Pattaya MICE facilities at Nov. 27 concert Urasin Khantaraphan Pattaya business leaders will try to promote the city as a center for business meetings and conventions with a concert by the Dutch Swing College Band Nov. 27 at Central Festival Pattaya Beach.

Pattaya Business & Tourism Association President Sinchai Wattanasartsathorn chaired a planning meeting at city hall Nov. 11 with the event’s co-sponsors, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chonburi Tourism and Sports office, and Bangkok Hospital Pattaya.

The concert is aimed at drawing attention to Pattaya’s capabilities to host “meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions.” The PBTA said it will show tourists that Pattaya is normal, safe and

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014 5

Pattaya Deputy Mayor Ronakit Ekasingh chairs the press conference announcing the upcoming concert. has high-standard MICE fa- saxophonist Peter Schilperoort cilities. and has gained a large interThe concert kicks off at the national following. mall’s beachfront sunken A performance from the amphitheater at 6 p.m. with Alcatraz transgender cabathe first show by the Dutch ret will follow with the Swing College Band, which Dutch Swing College Band was first formed in 1945 by taking the stage again for a bandleader and clarinetist/ second set.

Thais and foreigners line the street in North Pattaya to give alms to monks that will be delivered 323 temples in 4 embattled southern provinces.

Urasin Khantaraphan & Surasak Huasoon Thousands of Buddhists turned out to give alms to 2,600 monks on a mission to help temples in Thailand’s troubled south.

The huge merit-making event in front of Pattaya City Hall Nov. 15 saw the crowd, dressed predominantly in white, donate rice and dried goods to support a nationwide drive by a million monks to provide relief to 323 embattled Buddhist temples in Songkla, Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani provinces.

The sea of golden robes flowed along North Road from the Samsai intersection to the Dolphin Roundabout.

The road was closed to traffic and thousands made their way to make merit with the monks.

Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome and Phra Rachasithiwimoll, deputy chief of the Chonburi Ecclesiastical Office, presided over the event, leading the 2,600 monks from Chonburi and Chachoengsao to accept alms, rice, dried food and necessary items from Buddhists.

The Mediation to Develop World Peace Association, founded by Phathepyasana Mahamunee, abbot of Dhammakaya Temple, organized the government-sponsored service, its seventh annual event, aimed at reviving and supporting religion.

The event was held in coordination with Kanlayamite in Chonburi and the Naval Rating School, Change The World Club, and Dharma Media Channel.

Organizers said the donations are necessary as Buddhist monks in the Muslim-dominated southern provinces are having difficulties collecting alms and, at some temples, monks have had to stop going out to receive alms due to separatist violence.

Therefore, Luang Pu Thammachaiyo, the abbot of Dhammakaya Temple and president of the Dhammakaya Foundation, initiated the project to help monks in 323 temples in the four provinces.

TAT targets high-end tourists to drive Pattaya revival

48 families found encroaching on navy land in Sattahip The TAT and PBTA will try to drive Pattaya’s economic revival by focusing on bringing Chinese and Russian tourists back to the city.

Patcharapol Panrak Nearly 50 Sattahip district families have been found to be illegally living on land owned by the Royal Thai Navy.

District Chief Phawat Lertmukda led a contingent of legal, military and community officials on an inspection of the Moo 1, 2 and 6 villages in Plutaluang Nov. 10.

Sattahip bailiff Pikhul Sopha said the inspection determined that 21 families in Moo 1 village, 11 families in Moo 2 and 16 families in Moo 6 were encroaching on royal property used by the navy.

Officials collected data from each of the encroaching

Jetsada Homklin

Legal, military and community officials collect data from families encroaching on navy land, and provide information on how they could apply for private use of royal property. families and provided information on how they could

apply for private use of royal property.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand will try to drive Pattaya’s economic revival by focusing on high-end hotel offerings, golf and festivals to bring Chinese and Russian tourists back to the city.

Speaking at the Pattaya Business & Tourism Association’s Nov. 12 meeting, TAT Pattaya Director Suladda Sarutilavan said targeting the high-end of the market will do the most to bring revenue to the city.

Key to attracting tourists, she said will be events over the next year like the International Fireworks Competition,

Pattaya Countdown, Songkran and the Pattaya Grand Sale.

“These events are the festivals that can attract foreign tourists into Pattaya, which will generate an enormous amount of income for Thailand,” she said.

PBTA board member Thanes Supornsahatrangsi suggested that TAT spend more time on strengthening the Indian and Thai tourism markets. He also said more needs to be done to win back the Asian and Russian tourists from Vietnam and neighboring countries, which have gained at Thailand’s expense.

PBTA President Sinchai Wattanasartsathorn said Russian tourists increasingly have gone to Vietnam, Cambodia and other countries due to Thailand’s turbulent politics, crime against Russians in Pattaya and overall economics.

He said a way to win back their business was to promote high-end hotel products, golf tours and events.

Banglamung District Chief Sakchai Taengho suggested what Pattaya and the PBTA needed was a good website that people liked and could book inexpensive hotel packages online easily.

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Central Festival kicks Queen Sirikit NMC marks off winter with fashion show World Diabetes Day Patcharapol Panrak Queen Sirikit Naval Medical Center handed out awards to patients who overcame and controlled their diabetes on World Diabetes Day. Hospital deputy director Nut Isarangkul Na Ayutthaya presided over the Nov. 14 event.

Diabetes clinic chief Yhing Nonglak Singhgowint said the World Health Organization established the diabetes day in 1991 to campaign for prevention of the disease and advertise its detrimental health effects.

Queen Sirikit has treated more than 3,000 diabetes patients and 1,000 more at risk of the disease, doctors said.

Vocalist Wanlika (Taengmo) Kertsawapitak performs for the crowd as lingerie models look on.

Jetsada Homklin Central Festival Pattaya Beach kicked off the winter season with a lingerie fashion show and 60-percent-off sale.

Mall manager Kasin Owartsuwan organized the show Central Beach winter lingerie

Festival Pattaya kicked off the season with a fashion show.

with female models in lingerie and a concert by vocalist Wanlika (Taengmo) Kertsawapitak from The Voice Thailand and the Attention Please band.

The mall’s Nov. 8-13 sale featured a promotion from Sabins with up to 60 percent off normal prices.

Kasin offered a congratulatory speed with models, singers, workers and interested shoppers attending.

Tel: 038 411240-1 | 038 413240-1 Email: peter@pattayamail.com

Queen Sirikit Naval Medical Center deputy director Nut Isarangkul Na Ayutthaya presides over ceremonies to mark World Diabetes Day. The clinic works with pa- that diabetes can lead to tients to prevent occurrences macular degeneration, kidand manage symptoms. ney failure, heart disease, Nut Isarangkul pointed out stroke and foot ulcers.

‘Boot camp’ aims to defuse fights among vocational college students Patcharapol Panrak Former Royal Thai Navy commander-in-chief Narong Pipatanasai was back on familiar ground in Sattahip, this time as education minister, to open the second military-style “boot camp” for pre-college students aimed at teaching them discipline, morals and ethics.

Eighty-one students from Samut Prakan Technical College, Kanchanapisek Samut Prakan Technical College and Samut Prakan Polytechnic College attended the camp at the Navy Rating School, the second batch of students set to attend their first year at the vocational schools.

The camp program was developed in the wake of a string of high-profile brawls between vocational school students. The navy and the Office of Vocational Education Commission jointly set up the two-phase program.

The first phase was a pilot training course, which ran last month, and the second is the 26-day camp that runs from Nov 12 to Dec 7. In all, 97 students will have gone through the “boot camp.”

The goals are to adjust students’ attitudes and behavior; instill discipline and unity; teach them to live creatively and with good social skills; and to create selfworth and pride.

Narong said having people live together harmoniously is an important goal of the government. He also noted that the labor market has a high demand for vocationalschool graduates.

Narong emphasized the “boot camp” is not to turn the students into military personnel. But it is hoped that it will eliminate or greatly reduce the fights that have grabbed headlines this year. There have been

Education Minister Narong Pipatanasai walks among the pre-college students who are now going through a military-style “boot camp” to teach them discipline, morals and ethics. so many brawls between warring colleges that Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has threatened to close down colleges that don’t rein in their students. Two schools have been closed

for a month already.

Attending the camp is not punishment, as many presume, he said. It is to fulfill what is missing in society and individuals so students can be more complete.

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FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014 7

Hin Tok River Camp An unforgettable camping experience along the River Kwai

Hin Tok River Camp at Hellfire Pass in Sai Yok is a safari tented camp nestled on a historic piece of land upon the pinnacle of Hin Tok Mountain, overlooking the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi.

Being close to the rhythm of nature, camping in canvas tents, and being given the chance to experience a natural spring pool adjoining the River Kwai Noi, visitors can enjoy a most relaxing holiday while staying in this River Kwai camp.

This resort was also honored in 2009 as one of the top ten adventure resorts in the Asia Pacific.

During the daytime, activities can provide you with close contact to nature, and feature mountain biking, canoeing, bamboo rafting and elephant trekking through the Mon tribal village, along with many other excursions.

Furthermore, owing to the abundance of the forest and being next to a national park reserve, there are numerous colorful birds, including hornbills and kingfishers.

Recommendation Ride the freely provided mountain bikes across the suspension bridge through the morning mist. See the lifestyle of the local Hat Ngio community. The round-trip distance is about 4 km. You can also ask the resort to provide transportation instead.

Travel Info The resort is located at the Sai Yok district at the 65th km marker on Highway 323.

The route is the same as to Hellfire Pass Museum.

GPS Location: N14° 14.645’, E99° 1.289’ Contact: Hin Tok River Camp, +66 2642 5497; www. hintokrivercamp.com Facilities & Services: Accommodation, restaurant, swimming pool, bicycle, tour guide, long-tailed boat and shuttle service.

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Wall Street Crash: Have we actually learnt anything?

Paul Gambles Co-founder of MBMG Group We’ve just passed the 85th anniversary of Black Tuesday, the pinnacle of the Wall Street Crash, when 16 million shares were traded in one day. Have economists, central banks and governments learnt anything from these events and the aftermath of the 2008 crisis? Economist Prof. Steve Keen thinks not and is concerned about a long-term recession.

According to the US Secretary to the Treasury, “The high tide of prosperity will continue.”1 Yet the German economy is showing signs of weakness, seeing its hardearned prosperity dwindle because of external economic circumstances and obligations it wished it hadn’t signed up for. Meanwhile, France is evaluating its role in a European Union and in Spain there is discontent amongst academics and businessmen alike over government spending. As Southeast Asian countries attempt to further modernize their economies, there is deadly conflict in Jerusalem and Afghanistan.

The above is a selective summary of events in 1929; although it could easily be used to describe the state of the world over the last five years. One of the many consequences of Black Tuesday was the soaring in US private debt, which in the years following the 1929 crash reached 130% of GDP. That remained a record level until 2009, when it topped 175% of GDP.2 Prof. Steve Keen is head of the School of Economics,

US Generic Government 10-Year Bond Yield (Sept 24-Oct 24, 2014)

Source: Bloomberg History and Politics at Kingston University, London and a leading advocate of the school of thought that debt, and changes in debt, determine outcomes in economies and markets. He sees the level and growth of private debt as the root explanation for both financial crises: “A rising level of private debt compared to income ultimately gets to the stage that it is such a burden that, first of all, credit-fuelled growth stops growing because people don’t want to take on any more debt, and secondly, the servicing costs of the debt can overwhelm the economy.

That’s what I saw back in 2005. That’s why I said a financial crisis was coming in the very near future.”3 Keen observes that, since 2008, no enduring stability has been created; instead there is another accident waiting to happen, probably in the next 1-4 years. That said, he thinks that this is likely to be just another recession in a

long-term cycle of going nowhere for the next couple of decades.4 As a matter of fact, just two weeks ago the 10-year US Treasury Bond yield dropped so quickly (see chart) that one bank’s representatives elected to switch off its computers which automatically generated buy and sell quotes, for fear of losses and being left with unwanted stock.5 Speaking on Bloomberg Surveillance,6 LPL Financials Fixed Income strategist Anthony Valeri saw this as “Eyecatching to say the least”, and said that it spoke to the illiquidity in the market. “We

be within in the 2.0-2.3% range to the end of the year.

Marginal debt is at an alltime high (see chart) and last week, a drop in the markets may once again have exposed some fragility: there were rumours that at least one hedge fund was forced to liquidate.

All this comes while the Federal Open Market Committee7 carries on regardless, in the mistaken belief that the Fed’s QE money-creation policy is actually working.

Footnotes: 1 Andrew W. Mellon, Secretary of the Treasury, September 1929, as quoted in John Kenneth Galbraith (1954), The Great Crash 1929,

Mariner Books; Reprint edition (September 10, 2009) 2 Crash, Boom, Pop! Economics and the Financial Crisis come to Comics, IDEA Economics Press Release, October 23, 2014 3 idem 4 WTF - What the Future holds, MBMG Update, November 5, 2013 5 http://www.bloomberg. com/news/2014-10-26/treasury-liquidity-squeezeseen-in-dealer-who-shutoff-machine.html 6 Bloomberg Surveillance, October 23, 2014 7 http://www.federalreserve .gov/newsevents/press/ monetary/20140917a.htm

Please Note: While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained herein is correct, MBMG Group cannot be held responsible for any errors that may occur. The views of the contributors may not necessarily reflect the house view of MBMG Group. Views and opinions expressed herein may change with market conditions and should not be used in isolation.

MBMG Group is an advisory firm that assists expatriates and locals within the South East Asia Region with services ranging from Investment Advisory, Personal Advisory, Tax Advisory, Private Equity Services, Corporate Services, Insurance Services, Accounting & Auditing Services, Legal Services, Estate Planning and Property Solutions. For more information: Tel: +66 2665 2536; e-mail: info@mbmg-group.com; Linkedin: MBMG Group; Twitter: @MBMGIntl; Facebook: /MBMGGroup

Thailand to sell rice, rubber to China Commerce Minister Gen Chatchai Sarikulya said negotiations at the ministerial level are underway for Thailand to sell 2 million tonnes of rice and 200,000 tonnes of natural rubber to China on a government-to-government basis.

Sales will be made to China’s state enterprise Cofco and delivery will be made in 20152016, said Gen Chatchai, adding that sales will be conducted with Cofco only for the purpose of transparency.

Gen Chatchai said the plan to sell rice and rubber to China is being made following requests to Chinese government leaders to buy more agricultural products from Thailand during the 22nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit held in Beijing last week.

Company representatives arrived in Thailand Wednesday to discuss ways to invest in the rubber industry in Thailand, while trade associations will discuss China’s plan

knew that corporate markets were on the illiquid side,” he said, “but to see those types of moves in the Treasury market, which we hadn’t seen an intra-day move like that since the fall of 2008. […] It just shows that some of these moves can be exacerbated to the up or the downside. In 2013 we saw it to the high side, and here in 2014 we saw it to the low side.”

According to Valeri, analysts are giving up on their forecasts, “3% annual yield on 10-year bonds isn’t going to happen in 2014. They are lowering it by consensus to around 2.5%.” Valeri says that yields will be probably

to boost its investment in Thailand and enlarge Thai exports there, he said.

Gen Chatchai said he met farmer representatives to discuss rice strategy and prices after finding that rice contained high moisture as the rainy season is about to end.

Rice exporters and millers bought rice at prices much below the target, said Gen Chatchai.

Concerned parties will be invited for talks in future in order to solve the problem, he said.

Differing reports on rice in storage is not necessarily a problem, Gen Chatchai said. The Commerce Ministry reported 18 million tonnes stored, while a subcommittee inspecting the former government’s rice-pledging program said there were 19.2 million tonnes on hand, but Gen Chatchai said the difference probably resulted from inspection at the different times.

The ministry will ask the National Rice Policy Committee to resume sale of warehoused rice without a negative impact on domestic rice prices, he said. (MCOT)

BoT says Thai economy remains strong Despite a slight increase in non-performing loans (NPLs) by commercial banks and high household debt levels, Thailand’s general economy remains stable, a spokesman for the Bank of Thailand (BoT) said last week.

Spokesman Chirathep Senivongs Na Ayudhya said the public should not worry about an announcement made earlier by rating agency Standard and Poor’s on Thailand’s economic growth, saying it could be unstable and negatively affect financial institutions.

The central bank, he said, asserts that the country’s

economy is still stable and financial institutions are performing normally even as nonperforming loans during the third quarter stood at 2.34 percent, up slightly from 2.15 percent at the end of 2013, which was considered as “not too high and steady,” Chirathep said.

Commercial bank reserves for possible NPLs at the end of September stood at 135 percent, displaying their financial strength, he said.

Household debt, which stood at 83.5 percent of gross domestic product at the end of the second quarter this year, although high, was not a major factor

impacting the country’s economic recovery, he said.

But it should serve as a warning to the government not to stimulate the economy through more borrowing. There are signs that household debt has declined since the end of 2013 and it would continue to fall with the country’s economy improvement in 2015.

Chirathep said the BoT’s Monetary Policy Committee still has no plan to ease its policy rate as it must consider the country’s latest economic figures when it meets for the last time this year on December 17.

(MCOT)

VOL. XXII No. 47

G-20 leaders reveal details of global growth plan Kristen Gelineau Brisbane, Australia (AP) Under pressure to jolt the lethargic world economy back to life, leaders of G-20 nations on Sunday finalized a plan to boost global GDP by more than $2 trillion over five years by investing in infrastructure and increasing trade. The fanfare, however, was overshadowed by tensions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Western leaders.

The communiqué from the summit of Group of 20 wealthy and emerging nations revealed that the plan for jumpstarting growth includes the creation of a global infrastructure hub that would help match potential investors with projects. Leaders also aim to reduce the gap between male and female participation in the workforce by 25 percent by 2025, saying that would put 100 million more women in employment and reduce poverty.

Speaking at the end of the summit in Brisbane, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott said countries will hold each other to account by monitoring implementation of their commitments to boost growth.

The G-20, criticized in recent years as being all talk and no action, was urged to deliver measurable results this year. Perhaps in response, the group said the International Monetary Fund and OECD will also play a role in monitoring progress and estimating the economic benefits of the growth plan.

The G-20 communiqué says if the $2 trillion initiative is fully implemented, it would lift global GDP by 2.1 percent above expected levels by 2018 and create millions of jobs.

Abbott said countries agreed on more than 800 new measures to spur the global economy, which the IMF describes as facing a “new mediocre.”

“The G-20 has delivered real, practical outcomes and, because of the efforts that the G-20 has made, this year, culminating in the last 48 hours, people right around the world are going to be better off,” he said.

But the G-20, which represents around 85 percent of the global economy, faces an uphill struggle to implement its plan after international agencies downgraded their global growth forecasts in recent months. Growth in China and Japan has weakened and Europe is teetering on the brink of another recession.

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In this photo released by G20 Australia and taken on Saturday Nov 15, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Russian President Vladimir Putin hold koalas during a photo opportunity on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Brisbane, Australia. (AP Photo/G20 Australia,Andrew Taylor) And experts warned that the countries would need to comply with every one of the 800 measures to achieve the 2.1 percent target, a virtually impossible task, given the difficulties they will inevitably face in pushing some of the policies through in their home countries.

“There are two questions: whether the specifics are credible and whether the political backing by leaders is convincing,” said Thomas Bernes, an analyst with the Center for International Governance Innovation, a Canadian-based think-thank.

Abbott said the group had been most productive on the issue of trade, adopting reforms to streamline customs procedures and reduce regulatory burdens.

“Trade is a key driver of growth, perhaps the key driver of growth and we’re focused on domestic reforms to facilitate trade as well as the importance of a strong global trading system,” he said.

Despite Abbott’s push to keep the summit focused on the economy, the meeting was largely overshadowed by tensions between Putin and Western leaders over the escalating conflict in Ukraine, where Moscow is supporting pro-Russian rebels in the country’s east.

Putin departed Australia before the communiqué was issued. He told reporters he left ahead of a final lunch with fellow leaders because he wanted to be rested before returning to work, according to a translation of his comments by an Australian Seven News journalist allowed into a press briefing that excluded most foreign media.

Australia, Japan and the U.S. issued a statement condemning Russia for its actions in

Ukraine, and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper reacted to an offer of a handshake from Putin by responding, “I guess I’ll shake your hand, but I have only one thing to say to you: You need to get out of Ukraine.”

Abbott has been particularly strong-worded in his criticism of Russia since a Malaysia Airlines plane was shot down in July over a part of eastern Ukraine controlled

by Russian-backed separatists, killing all 298 passengers and crew. Australia lost 38 citizens and residents in the MH 17 disaster.

Abbott at point said he planned to “shirt front” - or physically confront - Putin over the disaster.

Asked at the conclusion of the summit about where things stood with the Russian leader, Abbott responded that they’d had a “very robust” discussion about the situation in Ukraine.

“I utterly deplore what seems to be happening in eastern Ukraine,” Abbott said. “I demand that Russia fully cooperate with the investigation, the criminal investigation of the downing of MH17, one of the most terrible atrocities of recent times.”

The G-20 also tackled the tricky issue of tax evasion by multinationals, declaring that profits should be taxed in the country where they are earned. There has been an ongoing effort by governments to crack down on the practice of big companies such as Google and Amazon moving profits earned in one country to other countries with lower tax rates.

The G-20 endorsed a global common reporting standard for the automatic exchange of tax information, which will begin by 2017 or 2018.

Bangkok Airways unveils renovated lounges in Chiang Mai and Bangkok Bangkok Airways has recently unveiled its newly refurbished domestic passenger lounges at Chiang Mai international airport and Suvarnabhumi international airport. The airline’s new state-of-the-art “Boutique Lounge” and the “Blue Ribbon Club Lounge” at both airports are now open for all passengers.

Tresarun Sitakalin, ground services director of Bangkok Airways said, “To better accommodate our passengers … the new lounges were designed to maximize space and offer a warmer and cozier atmosphere for our passengers by using different shades of our trademark blue color.

“Passengers will also be treated to a multitude of complimentary sumptuous snacks and various choices of hot or cold drinks with free Wi-Fi Internet access. Our lounges at Chiang Mai International Airport can accommodate up to 140 passengers

while lounges at Suvarnabhumi International Airport can accommodate up to 285 passengers,” Tresarun added.

The Boutique and Blue Ribbon Club Lounges at both airports operate daily from 04.30hrs.-22.00 hrs.

For more information and or reservations please contact Bangkok Airways Call Center at Tel. 1771 or visit www.bangkokair.com

Lots of talk, some decisions: G-20 summit outcomes Brisbane, Australia (AP) The communiqué issued by a weekend summit of the 20 biggest wealthy and developing economies spanned issues from boosting growth to combating corruption.

Here are some of the commitments made by G-20 leaders after two days of meetings in Brisbane, Australia.

Growth Leaders finalized a plan outlined by their finance ministers early this year to boost the world economy.

Through 1,000 policy measures, 800 of which are new, they hope to add $2 trillion to world GDP by 2018 on top of the growth already expected. World GDP this year is about $77 trillion. An assessment of the initiatives by the IMF and OECD says their clarity and concreteness has increased but some remain “insufficiently precise.” Offsetting that is a “comply or explain” requirement that might keep countries on track to meeting the goal.

Women at work The G-20 nations want to see 100 million more women in employment by 2025. That will require reducing the barriers to female participation in the workforce. It would reduce poverty and inequality and boost economic growth.

But the communiqué does not say how this new goal will be achieved.

Tax evasion To prevent cross-border tax evasion by corporations and wealthy individuals, G-20 countries agreed to automatically exchange tax information with each other and with other nations by 2018 at the latest. That is part of an ongoing effort to stop multinational companies lowering their tax bills by moving profits from the country where they are earned to places with lower tax rates.

Infrastructure hub To be located in Sydney, this coordinating body will work with governments, companies and development banks to help the G-20 achieve a goal of increasing investment in infrastructure.

It will have an initial four year mandate. Infrastructure needs in areas such as electricity networks, roads, rail and ports are particularly acute in developing countries. In Asia alone, the Asian Development Bank estimates developing countries will need to invest $8 trillion in infrastructure from 2010 to 2020 just to keep their economies moving forward.

Remittances The money sent home by foreign workers is acknowledged as crucial for supporting millions of families and businesses in developing nations. The G-20 wants to

reduce the costs of remitting funds to home countries.

Currently, transfer costs consume 8 percent, down from 10 percent in 2011, which the G-20 attributes to collaboration between member countries. It said it is recommitting to getting the figure down to 5 percent after failing to achieve that so far.

Corruption G-20 countries agreed to share in writing what steps they are taking to prevent abuse of shell companies.

Shells conceal the identities of people who ultimately own, control, or benefit from a business and can be used to conceal criminal activity such as money laundering, tax evasion and corruption. That commitment falls short of hopes for national registers but might help put the spotlight on countries that don’t make sufficient progress.

12 FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014

Odds and Ends The Associated Press

Dutch to public: Don’t pee on the royal palace Amsterdam (AP) - If you’re caught short on Amsterdam’s historic Dam Square, the Dutch government has a message for you: Don’t pee on the palace. The Dutch royal family uses the stately Royal Palace in downtown Amsterdam as a working palace, not a residence. But the building’s dark arches provide a favored spot for urination, often at night, out of sight of police who regularly patrol the palace vicinity. After a multimillion-euro renovation ended in late 2011, people began urinating against the palace’s sandstone facade. That prompted authorities to put up a fence. But the Interior Ministry called the fence “unworthy” of the historic location. It is now installing lights and movement sensors to deter people from relieving themselves. The government also warned that peeing in public is punishable by a 140-euro ($175) fine. If those measures don’t work, authorities are considering installing a urinal near the palace that rises out of the ground at night and sinks back below the sidewalk during the day.

Other possible moves include a raised set of steps featuring a “pop-up” fence or fine mesh screens to block off access to the arches after dark.

US woman celebrates 100th birthday with sky dive Gansevoort, New York (AP) - Eleanor Cunningham of Howes Cave, New York, has bested former President George H.W. Bush. He celebrated his 90th birthday by skydiving; she made the big leap to mark her centennial.

Cunningham kissed her 7-month-old great-great-granddaughter before suiting up for her 100th birthday jump Saturday, Nov. 8, at Saratoga Skydiving in Gansevoort. It was her third jump, after taking up the sport at age 90.

Cunningham lives with her granddaughter in their Schoharie County home in central New York. Her doctor signed off on the skydiving expedition, saying her health makes her more than capable of doing what she loves.

Dean McDonald of Saratoga Skydiving says Cunningham is his oldest jump partner yet.

Woman finds intruder snacking on cookie dough Wichita, Kan. (AP) - A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of burglary after a Wichita woman found him eating cookie dough from her freezer in the early-morning hours. The Wichita Eagle reports the woman came out of her bedroom shortly before 3:30 a.m. Thursday and found the stranger in her kitchen. Wichita police spokesman Lt. James Espinoza says the man told police he thought he was at his aunt’s house and was hungry. Police say the man entered the home through an unlocked back door. The 52year-old woman who lives there was not hurt. The intruder, who hasn’t been formally charged, was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary.

Cape Elizabeth bans roosters from small lots Cape Elizabeth, Maine (AP) - Elvis the rooster has left town. The Cape Elizabeth Town Council on Thursday in a 5-2 vote banned residents from keeping roosters on lots smaller than 40,000-square feet, or just under an acre.

The ordinance was passed in response to complaints from neighbors of a family that owned the loud rooster dubbed Elvis in a neighborhood of densely packed homes. Councilor James Sherman says roosters don’t belong in heavily populated areas. The Portland Press Herald reports that Sherman points out that while 60 percent of lots in town are smaller than 40,000-square feet, they represent only 11 percent of the total land area.

Councilors who voted against the ban worried about the town losing its agricultural heritage. The family that owns Elvis says he has already been given away.

Man arrested after calf found in back seat of car Riverside, Calif. (AP) - Police in Southern California have arrested a suspected calf rustler after the animal was found in the back seat of his car. Riverside Animal Services spokesman John Welsh says an officer approached Cesar Zamora Santana early Wednesday when the man was spotted loitering outside an auto shop. When the officer looked inside Santana’s vehicle, he saw the calf lying in the back seat. Santana told police that he bought the animal for $200 at a gas station. Animal control officers found that the bovine’s ear identification tag had been forcibly removed. Welsh says the 150-pound female calf was turned over to a farmer to be fostered while authorities try to find its owner. The 31-year-old Santana was arrested on suspicion of transporting livestock without proof of ownership or identifying information. No phone listing for him could be found.

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VOL. XXII No. 47

NASA: Comet bombarded Mars sky with meteor shower Seth Borenstein Washington (AP) - A pristine distant comet created a once-in-8-million-year fireworks show above Mars last month. But no one got to see it live.

New NASA data from satellites circling Mars shows that when the comet named Siding Spring skimmed the red planet, tons of comet dust bombarded the Martian sky with thousands of fireballs an hour. It warped the Martian atmosphere leaving all sorts of metals and an eerie yellow afterglow on Oct. 19.

A meteor shower from magnesium, sodium, iron and five other metals may have been so heavy that it might be even considered a meteor storm, said University of Colorado scientist Nick Schneider.

Spikes in magnesium physically changed the atmosphere around Mars, while sodium left a yellowish glow in the sky after the meteor showers finished, he said.

“It would have been truly stunning to the human eye,” said Schneider, who was the lead instrument scientist for one of NASA’s Martian satellites. “It would have been really mind-blowing.”

The best view would have

This handout artist’s concept provided by NASA/JPL shows the Comet Siding Spring approaching Mars, shown with NASA’s orbiters preparing to make science observations of this unique encounter. (AP Photo/NASA/JPL) been from the Martian surface, where NASA had the rovers Opportunity and Curiosity looking up. But the rovers could only take stills, said agency chief planetary scientist Jim Green. There was no video to capture the shooting stars that made it a spectacular light show.

Instead, NASA’s satellites recorded lots of scientific data, which allowed astronomers to describe what it must have been like.

The core of the spinning comet moved by Mars at

more than 125,000 mph (201,200 kph) and could have been as large as 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) wide, astronomers said.

It was not only big, but the dust assault was far larger than NASA anticipated, Green said. NASA’s models estimated that the dust would not be enough to harm the satellites around Mars, but the agency moved them to the other side of the planet just in case. That turned out to be wise, he said.

The comet came from the

Oort Cloud, which is at the very edge of our solar system.

Comets from there are rare so this was the type of event that happens once every 8 million years. And when they come toward the sun they aren’t as dusty as others, more pristine, astronomers said.

“We never before had the opportunity to observe an Oort Cloud comet up close,” Green said. “Instead of going to the comet, it came to us.”

Online: NASA: http://www.nasa. gov/mars

Half of all stars may lie outside galaxies Marcia Dunn Cape Canaveral, Florida (AP) - The universe may be full of reclusive stars - not washed-up Hollywood stars, but the kind lurking deep in the cosmos.

Earlier this month, scientists reported that as many as half of all stars may lie outside galaxies.

Individually, these lonesome stars are too faint to detect. But together, they create a hazy background of fluctuating near-infrared light. A team of astronomers from the U.S., Japan and Korea say the diffuse glow appears to be from stars booted out of their galaxies by mergers and collisions.

The measurements by Michael Zemcov of the California Institute of Technology and his colleagues were made on two suborbital rocket flights, launched in 2010 and 2012 from New Mexico, and validated by NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope.

NASA program scientist Michael Garcia said this diffuse glow between galaxies

This Jan. 9, 2014, photo shows a view of the stars above Lindisfarne Castle in Holy Island, England Scientists reported Thursday, Nov. 6, that as many as half of all stars may lie outside galaxies. (AP Photo/Scott Heppell, File) is as bright as all the known certain radius,” Zemcov told the Friday, Nov. 7 issue of galaxies combined, and is reporters. While scientists the journal Science. redefining galaxies. Instead previously have known More CIBER flights are of having sharp edges, gal- about these halos around planned for better measureaxies may spread out like a galaxies, “these halos seem ments; there have been four starry web, connecting all to be extending farther out to date. the galaxies together. than we thought and is reOnline: “Traditionally, we’ve talked sponsible for more light than California Institute of Techabout galaxies as disks or we thought.” nology: http://ciber. sometimes spheroids that Details of this Cosmic In- caltech.edu/ have a finite extent. They frared Background Experiment Science: http://www. run out of stars and gas at a - CIBER for short - appear in sciencemag.org/

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Q&A: What is 4chan and where did it come from?

Barbara Ortutay San Francisco (AP) - Clicking on the website 4chan’s “random,” or “/b/” subsection will take you to a place very far from the polished vacation photos on Instagram and the adorable baby snapshots on Facebook. Here, you might find close-ups of genitals, lots and lots of breasts, or a post on why one should never marry a woman who isn’t a virgin.

There are also images of a dead woman, splayed naked on a bare mattress, mouth agape, a deep red mark going all around her neck. Authorities say it was the slaying suspect, David Kalac, who posted the pictures and wrote the accompanying posts about strangling the woman and his plan to be fatally shot by police.

4chan’s roots date back to a pre-Facebook age on the Internet, where anonymity ruled and rules were few to come by. The site is where hackers deposited nude celebrity photos over the summer. It’s also the birthplace of the hacker collective Anonymous, along with countless funny Internet

memes and harmless pranks on celebrities. It’s been called a home to cyber bullying as well as do-gooder vigilante justice.

“Often dismissed as little more than a gang of anonymous bullies, there is some truth to the notion that the site is simultaneously the best and worst of the Internet,” journalist Sean Bonner wrote on BoingBoing.net in 2010 in a story about 4chan helping track down a woman who put a live cat in a trash bin.

Some questions and answers about 4chan:

How did 4chan start?

The site was born in 2003, a year before Facebook, as an image and message board

in the style of a similar Japanese board called 2chan, or Futaba. The identity of its 15-year-old founder, Christopher Poole, became widely known after he gave an interview to The Wall Street Journal in 2008 in an article titled “Modest Web Site Is Behind a Bevy of Memes.”

Poole wanted to create a version on 2chan for American audiences to share his fascination with Japanese comics and television shows, the Journal said.

Soon, the site grew well beyond anime and manga, thanks in large part to the fact that it allows users to be anonymous. It became a place for people to share images and discuss common interests, from TV shows to

computer science to pornography. At a time when Facebook, Google and to some extent Twitter are pushing people to share their real identities, 4chan lets users post without giving a name or even an email address, adding to its appeal.

Why does 4chan allow graphic images to stay up?

4chan’s rules prohibit people from posting things that violate U.S. or local laws.

It’s also against the rules to visit the site if you are under 18. Users can report posts that violate 4chan’s rules and there are moderators who can remove content. But the site prides itself in not censoring content just because

it might offend some people.

“Generally the rules are as light as they can keep them,” said Jim Hendler, a computer science professor at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York.

On the other hand, people do break 4chan’s rules, but in general the site is “very skittish” about taking down content, said Rob D’Ovidio, an associate professor of criminal justice at Drexel University in Philadelphia.

“It is an environment where independence and user-created community is highly valued over strong editorial control,” he said.

The posted photos of the woman’s nude, lifeless body, while distasteful, don’t violate any laws, D’Ovidio said.

“It’s not like he stole crime scene photos,” he said, referring to Kalac, who’s accused of killing his live-in girlfriend. The pictures also don’t violate copyright laws since he “technically owns the intellectual property.” In essence, 4chan would have to decide to remove the images on its own volition, or be compelled to do so by law enforcement.

And even if 4chan were to

remove the photos, chances are they would appear elsewhere on the site, or on the Internet.

PARASUB: What else is on 4chan?

The site’s “random” board gets the most notoriety, but it’s just a “small part of a much larger entity,” Hendler said.

“Despite the infamy, it really does some positive things. It creates community,” he said, adding that 4chan remains very much user-focused in the most basic sense of the term. The site “wanted to stay most true to the notion that you could be anonymous, you could talk about whatever you wanted, that you could control the conversation.”

Paul Levinson, professor of communications and media studies at Fordham University, called 4chan the “merry pranksters of the Internet.”

In 2010, for example, users tried to send Justin Bieber to North Korea by flooding an online poll asking fans where the divisive singer should perform next. It did not work.

Microsoft gives away Office apps for iPhone, iPad Brandon Bailey San Francisco (AP) Microsoft is offering free upgraded versions of its Office software for iPhones and iPads, as the software giant further embraces the so-called “freemium” strategy favored by many newer companies seeking success online.

Give away a basic version of a popular service, and the world may beat a path to your door and be willing to pay a little more for extras, or so the thinking goes.

Microsoft, the longtime king of desktop software, has generally protected its model of getting paid upfront for what it developed. But as the company strives to stay relevant for workers and consumers in an increasingly mobile world - and better compete with Google, Apple and others - it is offering substantial versions of its most popular products free of charge for smartphones and tablets. Microsoft is hoping to keep people using its products across all their devices, while betting that many will ultimately pay for fuller-featured versions of the software.

“There’s going to be a handful of tech companies that everyone depends on,” for online software, said Maribel Lopez, a mobile tech analyst at Lopez Research.

“Microsoft wants to make sure they’re one of them.”

As more workers use devices other than desktop PCs, they want to have the same capabilities on all their devices, says Michael Atalla, director of Microsoft’s Office apps product management. “We want to make sure they can move seamlessly from one to another,” he added.

The apps released Thursday, Nov. 6, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint, replace a limited iPhone version and upgrade a more powerful set of apps that the company released for iPad tablets in March. The older iPhone version allowed users to create and view files for free, but had very limited features. Earlier versions for the iPad offered more capabilities, but creating new files required a paid subscription to the company’s Office 365 subscription service.

The new apps have more of the capabilities found in Office desktop software and don’t require a paid subscription for creating files and other functions. Microsoft is still reserving some premium features, including security tools for business users, for paid subscribers. Microsoft will continue to charge for Office 365 on PCs and for business users.

The company seems to be thinking, “We’ll perhaps sacrifice a little bit of revenue on the consumer side to make sure Office remains the standard for everybody,” said Jan

This screen shot provided by Microsoft shows the iPad version of the company’s Microsoft PowerPoint app. Microsoft on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2014 released new, beefed-up versions of its popular Office software apps for iPhones and iPads, as part of the company’s push to stay relevant for workers in an increasingly mobile world. (AP Photo/Microsoft) Dawson, chief analyst at products. The Redmond, tablets that use Google’s Jackdaw Research. Busi- Washington company re- Android mobile operating nesses are increasingly cently said it delayed pro- system. But different verwilling to buy technology ducing a new version of sions of Android run on a that their workers use at Office for Apple’s Mac variety of devices from home, and that could computers so it could foshore up Microsoft’s lu- cus on mobile apps. crative commercial busiOne big challenge for ness, Dawson said.

Microsoft stems from the Although most of Microsoft complexity of building differCorp.’s revenue still comes ent versions of each app for from traditional software, competing mobile operating CEO Satya Nadella wants to systems. Apple’s iPhones shift the company’s focus to and iPads are far outnummo b i l e a n d w e b - b ased bered by smartphones and

different man ufacturers.

Microsoft also has its own mobile operating system, although it’s not as widely used.

Microsoft is inviting Android users to sign up for a test version of its new Office apps for Android tablets this week, but Atalla said the finished apps won’t be released until early next year.

He said new apps for Android phones are in the works, but declined to give a time frame.

In another move to keep up with shifting work habits, Microsoft announced a software partnership with Dropbox, an online storage company that’s increasingly popular with people that want to store documents, photos and other files and share them with others. The two companies are integrating their software so documents stored in Dropbox can be easily edited with Microsoft’s Office tools. Microsoft also has its own online storage service, while Google and Apple offer competing services with their apps.

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Prostate Cancer - is the PSA worthwhile?

It is “check-up” time again with ‘cut price’ examinations between now and the end of the year. For many males, a PSA test is added to investigate the health of the prostate gland. Unfortunately, the PSA test is not the be all and end all of prostatic health.

Of course what I am referring to here is fear of cancer of the prostate. And unfortunately prostate problems are extremely common, a situation we men have to live with.

Like all things, there is a downside as well as the fun side.

In fact this year in the United States, almost 180,000 men will be told that they have prostate cancer.

With all our older friends getting prostate problems, does this mean there is a rise in the incidence? Are our underpants too tight? One reason for the ‘apparent’ increase is the fact that prostate cancer is a condition of aging, and we are all living longer. The statistics show that by age 50, almost 50 percent of American men will have microscopic signs of prostate cancer. By age 75, almost 75 percent of men will have some cancerous changes in their prostate glands. Do the maths. By 100 we’ve all got it!

So does this mean that life really ends at around 76? Fortunately no. Most of these cancers stay within the prostate, producing no signs or symptoms, or are so slow-growing,

that they never become a serious threat to health. The good news is you die of something else before the prostate gets you! You die with it, rather than from it. That is an important fact to take in.

The real situation is that a much smaller number of men will actually be treated for prostate cancer. About 16 percent of American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lives; 8 percent will develop significant symptoms; but only 3 percent will die of the disease. Put another much more positive way, 97 percent won’t die from prostate cancer.

While some prostate cancer can be ‘aggressive’, breaking out from the prostate gland itself and attacking other tissues, including brain and bone, fortunately this is the minority scenario. The great majority of prostate cancers are slow growing, and it can be decades between the early diagnosis and the cancer growing large enough to produce symptoms. That’s the second important fact to take in.

So let’s look at diagnosis and get the “blood test” out of the way first. The blood test is called Prostate Specific Antigen, or PSA for short (we medico’s love acronyms). Up till then we had another test called DRE (digital rectal examination), which, quite frankly, was not all that popular. As medical students, we were taught “If you don’t put your finger in it, you’ll put your foot in it!” Despite this, ‘buyer

resistance’ was high, so when news came through about a “blood test”, millions of men began rejoicing and the sale of rubber gloves plummeted. Unfortunately, PSA is not a go/no-go test. A normal range test doesn’t guarantee you haven’t got it, and an elevated result doesn’t automatically mean that you are about to claim early on your life insurance (or your dependents, anyway).

However, there is good news. Serial PSA examinations can show the rate of cancer growth, and the rate of increase is more significant.

Like many other cancers, prostate cancer can only be fully diagnosed and ‘staged’ by biopsy. ‘Staging’ has four main grades. Stage I cannot be felt and is diagnosed through pathological testing. Stage II can be felt, but it is confined to the prostate. Stage III is coming out of the gland and Stage IV has grown into nearby tissues.

This is where you need to discuss your options with your doctor. If you are a young man with stage IV, then you have to make up your mind quickly. But if you are 75 with stage I or II, then you have more time, as you will most likely die of other causes before the prostate cancer gets you. For these people, “Watch and Wait” has much going for it, but you must be prepared to get to know your urologist. Pick one younger than you!

US officials unveil novel plan to test Ebola drugs Marilynn Marchione New Orleans (AP) - The quest for an Ebola treatment is picking up speed. U.S. officials have unveiled a plan to test multiple drugs at once, in an umbrella study with a single comparison group to give fast answers on what works.

“This is novel for us” and is an approach pioneered by cancer researchers, said Dr. Luciana Borio, head of the Food and Drug Administration’s Ebola response. “We need to learn what helps and what hurts” and speed treatments to patients, she said.

She outlined the plan last week at an American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene conference. Thousands of scientists have crowded into day and latenight sessions on Ebola,

which has killed nearly 5,000 West Africans this year.

There is no treatment for Ebola, but several experimental ones such as ZMapp have been tried on a few patients, and scientists are looking at some others that were developed for different conditions but may also fight the virus.

“There’s this tremendous urge to want to give people these experimental therapies,” but it’s crucial to make sure they don’t do harm, said the FDA’s Dr. Edward Cox. Everyone in the umbrella study would get supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, then be assigned to receive one of several drugs or be in a comparison group.

That’s needed because without one, there’s no way to know if any problems or

deaths are from the drug or the disease, Cox said.

Instead of waiting until a certain number of patients are treated to look at results, as is usually done, researchers will monitor results as they come in, pairing each person on a drug with someone from the comparison group to see if a pattern can be detected.

Cox said the FDA could not name the drugs being considered, but said a meeting next week with various companies should finalize the plans.

Other developments:

Vaccines Ten potential vaccines have been developed, and two should enter mid- to latestage testing in December or January, Dr. Cathy Roth of the World Health Organization told the conference via Skype from Geneva. GlaxoSmithKline’s is one of them, and it’s too

soon to say when it could be ready for wide use or what it would cost, said the company’s Dr. W. Ripley Ballou.

Poor countries “can’t be expected to pay for it,” so groups that have given aid in the past likely will be asked to do that, he said.

Fear, travel bans At least 30 scientists were barred from the conference because Louisiana state officials told attendees to stay away if they had traveled to certain West African countries or had contact with an Ebola patient in the last 21 days, Ebola’s maximum incubation period. One was Dr. Amanda Tiffany of Doctors Without Borders, who was to give a talk on how to limit the spread of Ebola, based on her work on some of the very first cases in Guinea.

“The stigma American and other colleagues are now facing is great,” she said in

a statement read by a colleague. “We need information disseminated through the media based on science and medicine and not on fear.”

Surviving Ebola A study published online by the New England Journal of Medicine confirmed a previous one that suggested age plays a key role in surviving Ebola. Patients over 40 were nearly four times more likely to die than younger ones were, a study in Guinea led

by Dr. Robert Fowler at the University of Toronto found.

Thomas Eric Duncan, the Liberian man who died at a Dallas hospital where he sought treatment, was 42.

Collateral Damage Ebola is setting back even the crude health care available in West Africa. In Sierra Leone, there now are no doctors willing to do Caesarean sections on pregnant

women, whether they are known to have Ebola or not, because of the fear of exposure to so much blood, said Dr. Lina Moses, another Tulane researcher who works in that country.

“Maternal health is a serious issue right now,” she said. “We’re expecting maternal mortality to skyrocket.”

Are cases peaking?

New cases in some parts of Liberia are falling, but doctors fear it might be that fewer people are seeking treatment or staying away out of anger over seeing loved ones’ corpses burned instead of the traditional funeral practices that can spread the virus, said Dr. Armand Sprecher, another Doctors Without Borders physician.

“I would really like to believe that things are slowing down there, but I’m not going to get too optimistic yet,” he said.

Stem cells to treat blindness appear to be safe Maria Cheng London (AP) - An experimental treatment for blindness that uses embryonic stem cells appears to be safe, and it improved vision in more than half of the patients who got it, two early studies show.

Researchers followed 18 patients for up to three years after treatment. The studies are the first to show safety of an embryonic stem cell treatment in humans for such a long period.

“It’s a wonderful first step but it doesn’t prove that (stem cells) work,” said Chris Mason, chair of regenerative medicine at University College London, who was not part of the research. He said it was encouraging the

studies proved the treatment is safe and dispelled fears about stem cells promoting tumor growth.

Embryonic stem cells, which are recovered from embryos, can become any cell in the body. They are considered controversial by some because they involve destroying an embryo and some critics say adult stem cells, which are derived from tissue samples, should be used instead.

Scientists have long thought about transforming them into specific types of cells to help treat various diseases. In the new research, scientists turned stem cells into retinal cells to treat people with macular degeneration or Stargardt’s macular dystrophy, the leading causes of blindness in adults

and children.

In each patient, the retinal cells were injected into the eye that had the worst vision. Ten of the 18 patients later reported they could see better with the treated eye than the other one. No safety problems were detected. The studies were paid for by the U.S. company that developed the treatment, Advanced Cell Technology, and were published online Tuesday, Oct. 14, in the journal, Lancet.

Dr. Robert Lanza, one of the study authors, said it was significant the stem cells survived years after the transplant and weren’t wiped out by the patients’ own immune systems. For some of the patients, Lanza noted their improved vision changed their lives, referring to a 75-year-old

horse rancher who had been blind in one eye before the treatment.

“One month after his treatment, his vision had improved (substantially) and he can even ride his horses again,” Lanza said in an email. He said other patients have regained their independence with their newfound vision and said some people are now able to use their computers again, read their watches or travel on their own.

“The next step will be to prove these (stem cell) treatments actually work,” Mason said.

“Unless there is a sham group where you inject saline into (patients’) eyes, we can’t know for sure that it was the stem cells that were responsible.”

Online: www.lancet.com

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Upgrading cameras

Replacing one’s camera is almost as difficult as upgrading your car. However, cameras are much cheaper than cars!

A couple of weeks back I received a very nice letter from one of the readers, and it was very pleasing to read that someone does actually read the column. The letter was as follows: Dear Mr Flashman, Firstly, I would like to say how much I enjoy your weekly articles in the Pattaya Mail. Please keep up the good work!

Secondly, I am writing to you in the hope that you can give me some advice and guidance.

I currently have two cameras. One is a Sony DSLR A300 (with two lenses). One being a Sony SAL 55200 (55200 mm lens) and the other a Sony 3.5-5.6/18-70 mm lens.

This camera is a few years old now and I tend not to use it that much as it is quite

heavy & bulky to carry around. For the last couple of years I have tended to favor my other camera which is a Panasonic Lumix DMCTZ20 with Leica lens. A compact camera that takes quite good pictures and is easy to carry around.

However, I am thinking to trade both these in and upgrade to a Nikon D5200.

So firstly, what do you think of my decision? Secondly, could you recommend a retail outlet in Thailand that could accommodate my request? If you have an idea of trade-in values that would also be helpful. I suspect that somewhere in Bangkok would be my best option although I live in Pattaya.

Thank you for taking the time to read my mail and any alternative ideas and options that you may have would be much appreciated.

Barry So what should I be advising Barry? The first piece of information I really needed, unfortunately Barry didn’t include with his email. Just what does he want to photograph? Action? Landscapes?

People? Glamor? Macro?

Looking at his DSLR Sony he has lenses covering 18 mm through to 200 mm. This is limiting his options. Definitely

Dear Hillary, See so much in your column about the women in Thailand being able to milk some poor saps dry in no time at all that it makes me worry about going over to your side. I was planning on a trip over the Yuletide, and friends who have been over say that there’s no shortage of lookers, but you’ve got to watch them as they will put pressure on you to buy them gold necklaces and suchlike. What is your advice Mrs. Hillary?

George Dear George, I don’t quite understand, my Petal. Your friends who have been over here say “there’s no shortage of lookers but you’ve got to watch them”, did they mean “lookers” or “hookers”? You have to decide which kind of woman you are looking for. If you think you can rock on over here and pick up a virgin film star who is an orphan and does not support a buffalo or a younger brother who just fell off his motorcycle, which is on time payments, and broke his leg, then you have unreal expectations, George. Like all things in life, you will get what you pay for, and short term company in Thailand is just the same. However, for the small cost of a bottle of (good) French bubbly and some Swiss or Belgian chocolates, I am willing to let you escort me to one of our better restaurants one evening. No hanky panky mind, this is just a way to show you that not all Thai women are on the make.

not the camera to use for shooting tigers! The other end of the scale at 18 mm isn’t bad, but this is also not the camera to use for dramatic landscapes.

Like many photographers, Barry has become tired of lugging the DSLR around and backed up the Sony with the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ 20, one of the early Bridgecameras with the non-removable Leica lens. With a range of 35-410 the Lumix gives an enormous range and is much lighter to carry.

For me, I would forget the DSLR with interchangeable lenses and the attendant weight problems. With today’s compacts/bridge cameras, the image quality is perfectly adequate, unless you want enlargements the size of a barn door.

I agree that trading in both of his current cameras for something newer makes sense. But I don’t agree that the Nikon D5200 should be the next step as this is back to weight and bulk.

A Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 would be my choice, and has received very favorable reviews. For example, the verdict from E-Photozine: The Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 is one of the cheapest 4K video recording devices available, and offers an array

Lumix FZ1000. of impressive video features.

However, if you don’t want to record 4K video, and just want a camera capable of

Dear Hillary, I’m not like your usual letter writers, as I don’t have a problem with some Thai lady running away with my fortune - I keep that locked up in a safe place, even though there’s not really enough to call it a ‘fortune’. My problem comes from friends who are all coming over at Xmas time. Most of them seem to think that my husband and I can look after them, show them a great time, and never get thanked, and the next wave comes. We did offer our spare room and driver last year, but it was all too much. How should we repel the invaders?

Gina Dear Gina, I love your description of getting prepared to repel the invaders. I do understand the problem, as I get friends from overseas who all think that I am here just to look after them, and that’s not the case. What I suggest is that you line up some trips to neighboring countries, with the dates to coincide with the invaders arriving. Don’t offer your house, driver, maid, laundry and the like, as they only are using you. This is always a problem as they think that because they knew you from your home country, you will welcome them with open arms, and many times you hardly knew them at all. So my suggestions are to grab your cutlass and repel the boarders before they even get out of Suvarnabhumi. Hope that helps, Petal.

Dear Hillary, Some of your readers will probably say this is a silly question, but I haven’t been here long, so I don’t know the

taking excellent photos, with a good zoom lens, then the Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 certainly delivers here as well.

With a relatively large 1 inch 20 megapixel sensor, a bright Leica 16x optical zoom lens with f/2.8-4.0 aperture, and full manual controls, the camera is capable of producing excellent image quality. Build quality is very good and the camera has a lot in common with the Panasonic Lumix GH4, the top of the range Micro Four Thirds camera from Panasonic. There are numerous external controls and buttons, as well as full manual controls, but you can also use the camera in auto mode, or one of the scene modes and still get great shots, as well as high quality video.

Trade the two cameras on a Lumix FZ1000 at one of the camera stores in MBK Bangkok would be my advice. (And yes, I use a Lumix as my camera of choice these days too.)

ropes. I often see a rather nice looking girl in the local shopping center and I sometimes stop and say hello. She is very well dressed and seems to have good English. I have asked her what she is doing and she says she is waiting for a boyfriend, but she seems to be waiting every day. Should I ask her if she is really waiting for a boyfriend? Do you think she is a prostitute? How do I ask? What will tell me that she is?

Please don’t laugh, I would really like to get to know this girl.

Jeffrey Dear Jeffery, You certainly are new around these parts, aren’t you! Let me take you by the hand in this matter. No, you do not say, “Excuse me, are you a prostitute?” Firstly, there are no prostitutes because that is against the law, so there aren’t any. However, there does appear to be a few enthusiastic ‘amateurs’ or ‘side-line’ girls around the place. What you have to reason out, young Jeffery, is how can she be so well dressed without a job, because you see her every day “waiting” and that’s not delivering food, is it? So she is either a young lady of independent means, or someone who goes shopping a lot with someone else’s money. You still with me, Jeffrey my Petal? Now she has been giving you all the hints, “waiting for a boyfriend”. That wasn’t waiting for “her” boyfriend - she is waiting for “a” boyfriend. This is leaving the opening for you to become the boyfriend - but, Jeffrey, I fear this relationship is going to cost you a whole heap of money. She is obviously more experienced than you are, and you are walking around the shopping center with “I’m ready for fleecing” written on your forehead. Take my tip - change your shopping center and wait till you meet some nice girl who is working there, not “waiting” there for a boyfriend.

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VOL. XXII No. 47

British expats should maximise value of their pensions UK corporate pensions are under stress, so British expats should look for ways to maximise the “take home” value of their pensions. Two representatives of the deVere Group Thailand Toby Williams, Area Manager, and Glenn Reidie, Senior Consultant - gave a talk about UK pensions at the Sunday, November 9, meeting of the Pattaya City Expats Club. They also touched briefly on two other topics: (1) information for U.S. citizens on the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act which came into effect in 2010; and (2) strategies for a sustainable retirement income.

Toby Williams has spent the last decade working in the wealth management industry in client facing and management roles, including six years with the deVere Group in Thailand. Toby specializes in UK pensions, UK pension transfers and portfolio management. For more information on the

deVere group, see www.devere-group.com/ deVere-News/deVere-in-theNews.aspx.

Glenn explained that the deVere Group is the world’s largest independent financial advisory firm. It does business in 109 countries (from 84 offices) and has about $10 billion under management. In Thailand, deVere has offices in Bangkok and Pattaya, with 50 expat advisors and coordinators.

Toby described what he termed a “crisis’ in corporate pensions in the UK, where 87% of the defined benefit plans are under funded.

Toby said that 15% of the UK’s 7,800 pension schemes have had to take emergency measures. Eleven large bluechip companies on the London stock exchange have pension liabilities that exceed their market capitalisation.

The main reason why so many plans are in trouble, Toby explained, is that returns on investments have

MC Roy Albiston presents the PCEC’s Certificate of Appreciation to Toby Williams, Glenn Reidie, and their able assistant for the interesting and informative talk on UK pensions, the US FACTA requirements, and strategies for a sustainable retirement income.

MC Roy Albiston introduces Toby Williams, Area Manager, and Glenn Reidie, Senior Consultant from the deVere Group Thailand who spoke to PCEC members about UK pensions and some important changes that will take place in early 2015.

Toby Williams with the deVere group Thailand describes the current UK pension crisis and described some opportunities that are open to mitigate high taxes that will affect some UK pensioners if they act now.

been below what was expected when the plans were first designed. About 60% of UK pension plan money is invested in government bonds, not equities, which provide little opportunity for growth. Further, defined contributions plans are in

better shape. But, he added, a lot depends on how skillfully the money is invested.

Toby explained there are many factors that “eat away” at one’s UK pension. For example, all pension income is taxed at the UK’s highest marginal tax rate. Also, if the

PMTV’s Paul Strachan interviews Toby William and Glenn Reidie on the porch of the Amari’s Tavern by the Sea Restaurant about their informative presentation to the PCEC.

value of the pension is large enough, supplementary taxes are imposed. In addition, if the pensioner passes away and the beneficiary elects to take the pension as a lump sum, there is a 55% “pension death” tax. For expats, there is also a currency risk as Brits living in Thailand know very well having seen the exchange rate of the Thai baht to the British pound go from 55 in 2010 to 43 in 2013.

There are ways for expats to maximise one’s UK pension income, minimise tax and ensure that one’s beneficiaries receive as much of the value of the pension as possible, Toby said. One of the most popular is called QROPS - Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme. Essentially, QROPS allows one to transfer one’s frozen corporate UK pension to another jurisdiction - Gibraltar being the most popular one - where the tax rates on pensions is much lower and there are no “pension death” taxes.

Toby described the rules governing QROPS and some changes that will come into effect on 15 April 2015. Not all UK pensioners living abroad would benefit from QROPS, Toby explained.

Further, deVere Group provides a service whereby they examine your pension situation and advise whether QROPS would work to your advantage. For a fee, deVere can arrange to transfer a UK pension to a foreign jurisdiction. QROPS cannot be used for all government or state pensions.

With respect to strategies to produce sustainable retirement income, Toby said that the goal is to preserve

capital and generate decent and steady income. He added that this is not easy to achieve.

Portfolios containing multiple asset classes - e.g., property, bonds, annuities, mutual funds and stocks have performed very well in recent years. Each year, one or two classes will outperform the others, but over time a diversified portfolio produces the best results.

Toby briefly mentioned the USA’s Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and its impact on foreign investments by Americans.

Financial institutions must report accounts held to the US Internal Revenue Service if they are valued at US $50,000 or more. Institutions that are not compliant with the Act can incur penalties in their dealings with US financial systems. Toby said they do have some investment opportunities that might be of interest to Americans, but they are compliant with FACTA and thus subject to the reporting requirements.

After the presentation, Toby and Glenn were interviewed for a television segment by Pattaya Mail TV. This interview is available on You Tube at: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v= 678dkeqbItg&feature= youtu.be.

MC Roy Albiston updated everyone on Club activities and upcoming events and then called on Judith Edmonds to conduct the Open Forum where questions are asked and answered about Expat living in Thailand, especially Pattaya.

For more information on the PCEC’s many activities, visit their website at www. pcecclub.org.

Hospital contributes to Rotary ‘Wrap up a Child Project’ Paul Strachan As the high season approaches in Pattaya we continue to enjoy the tropical temperatures; however, for many in the north of the country, especially those in the more mountainous areas, it is time to prepare for the coldest time of the year.

Therefore, the recent donation of over 400 sheets and 34 bed covers from Bangkok Hospital Pattaya to the Rotary Club Eastern Seaboard ‘Wrap up a Child Project’ came at the perfect time.

At the handover on the morning of Tuesday the 4th of November, Dr Pichit Kangwolkij, CEO of Bangkok Hospital Group Eastern Region & Director of the Bangkok Hospital Pattaya, stated that he fully recognizes there is a desperate need for these types of projects to be initiated. By working with the Rotary

Club Eastern Seaboard, he is confident that the blankets and sheets would go to those who need them most.

Pichit also stated that we have to bear in mind that, at this time of year, just a short distance to the west or north of Pattaya, young children and the elderly suffer from the effects of hypothermia.

Members of the Rotary Club Eastern Seaboard, including Past President Carl Dyson and Charter President Martin Brands, were on hand to gratefully receive the donation and to thank Dr Pichit and his team for their kind generosity.

The club, whilst working on water projects in the mountain regions of Thailand, found a desperate need for warm clothes and bedding for the children and the elderly.

The temperatures from October through to January regularly drop below 10C in

the mountainous regions and warm clothing and bedding is essential for survival.

The club noted that many of the children normally wear a pair of shorts and a t-shirt, and that the low income for these families means that life can be most uncomfortable and sadly sometimes lethal.

Last year the club was assisted by Swiss International Airlines, Bangkok Airways and the Centara Hotel Group, and this year members are delighted that Bangkok Hospital Pattaya has decided to recycle their old bedding and to work with the RCES to give a great boost to the Wrap Up a Child project.

Now the RCES is preparing for the Pattaya International Ladies Club Holiday Bazaar which will be held on Sunday the 23rd of November at the Holiday Inn, where they will be selling goodie bags that members of the

(L to R) RCES Charter President Martin Brands, Janya (Nui) Rattanaliam, Head of the BHP International Marketing (Domestic) Department; Nurse Apissada Unsuphan, BHP Patient Advocate Team; Dr Pichit Kangwolkij, Daniel & Marianne Biel, Carl & Joy Dyson, and Neil Maniquiz, Manager of the BHP International Marketing Division. public can purchase for a child at a cost of only 100 baht. The club will then

deliver these along with the sheets and bed covers to the remote mountain villages to

make sure that the items are received by those far less fortunate than ourselves.

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ISE joins Green Pattaya for beach cleaning

Students dig deep to clean the drains.

Neo LongThum On Saturday 8th November, 25 students from the International School of the Eastern Seaboard met up with the Green Pattaya volunteers and Rotary members to once again clean the Cosy Beach area. The plan was to get only small things but sadly the state of the beach and the sea was really bad and required everybody to do their very best for four hours. The sea was full of black residue, maybe from Loy Krathong the day before, but also plastic and other trash.

The three boats have been

A Russia volunteer helps clean the sea. reduced to two boats due to the owner putting one on fire

Sadly the state of the beach and the sea was really bad and required everybody to do their very best for four hours.

The plan was to get only small things. after City Hall officials warned her about the boats. The people around Cosy Beach have stop using the area as a garbage dump but there was still plastic buried in the mud from the grey waterfall.

For the first time ever we saw a family using the area for sunbathing so we are working in the right direction. When the rain stops, Green Pattaya will schedule another cleaning for the area up and hopefully the boats will be gone at that time.

The students were very active, removing large chunks of burnt boat parts and they also collected 25 bags of rubbish. Due to

Time to take a break for a group photo. other engagements, City Hall could not come but they came after to pick up all the

bags as usual.

The International School of the Eastern Seaboard

enjoyed the day out and a new cleaning is planned for January 2015.

St. Andrews students visit Camillian Social Centre Bryne Stothard On Sunday 12th October, 20 students from the Camillian Social Centre Rayong (http:/ /www.hiv-aids-kids.org/) joined 24 St. Andrews IGCSE and IB students for a day of activities run by the school’s Art, PE and Music teachers.

The Camillian Social Centre is an orphanage for children living with the HIV/ AIDS virus.

The students worked together on 2 art projects with Ms. Castle (which will be on display both within our school and at the Camillian Centre), participated a football clinic run by Ms. McEwan, and had an ensemble of dancing, music and singing with Mr. Muller. Mr. Collop was also on hand to make sure that the students were giving their all.

Many thanks must also go to the PTG who financed the lunch for that day.

A lovely quote from Wow Tansuwan (Year 10) perfectly

The emphasis of the day was one of caring, sharing and teamwork. sums up the purpose of the day, “It was fun, happy and yet quite a sad day for me, I enjoyed seeing them (Camillian students) smile and play the different activities with us, and I hope we can do this again next year. I remember one of the students (Kaew) who held my arm at the end of our day together, she said, ‘thank you’ quite nervously, but I knew that she was happy.”

The St Andrews School

community also collected clothes, shoes and underwear for the Camillian Centre, and sold handicrafts made by residents at the Camillian Centre on the school’s annual International Day, which helped raise 11,873 baht for the charity.

“This student led project is part of our emphasis on pushing our more able IGCSE students to prepare for their IB community service requirements during years 10 and 11.

SAGV organized a collection for the Students created some wonderful art children at Camillian. pieces together.

The day was a huge success.

Our comprehensive Exceptional Learners Program also offers students at KS3, IGCSE and IB the chance to compete against Thailand’s top international school students via the Model United Nations, Tournament of the

Minds and World Scholars Cup competitions. We feel that these opportunities give our students the confidence to compete and excel against the elite students in Thailand, whether it be in competitions like Tournament of the

Mind or in their final exams,” Mr Bryne Stothard, IGCSE Coordinator at St Andrews School, said.

St Andrews International School IGCSE and IBDP results are consistently above international standards.

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Children and parents revel in a fantastic international day

South Korean students and parents.

Ruth Greener

A great turnout of Russian families.

Activities included international arts and crafts.

International Day is often referred to as the best day of the year here at St Andrews, and this year it was one of the best ever.

The day began with the flag parade with all students, of 36 nationalities in total, representing their countries with flags and showing off their beautiful national costumes. The students then had a super morning, full of exciting international activities, run by parents and school staff. The Primary children got to try activities such as Indian Mehandi hand painting, Korean

Children representing Germany fly the flag.

Students and parents representing the USA. Origami, Irish dancing, Australian Football, and Maori Stick games. Some of the favourite activities in Secondary this year were African Drumming, British Sarcasm, Mexican Bingo and English Carnival Games, which included the legendary English sport of Sock Wrestling.

There were also (unsurprisingly!) lots of food based activities where students got to prepare, create and, most importantly, taste a selection of traditional foods from all over the world. Just a few examples were New Zealand mince pies, English Tiffin, and Thai sweets and spring rolls. Many students agreed that the French crepe making, run by one of the parents, Mme Serre, was a real highlight of the day.

International Day has become famous for its international lunch and this year was an absolute feast. Many parents volunteered time, effort and considerable skills to share some absolutely delicious national dishes and delicacies with us. Children, parents and staff enjoyed an amazing array of food, and enjoyed the opportunity to try new tastes.

The day concluded with the International Day assembly,

Students tried a wide variety of traditional Thai crafts.

Students drawing Maori tribal tattoos. including music and dancing from around the globe, that students, with the support of several staff members and parents, had been working hard on in the weeks leading up to the day. There was a Tae Kwon Do demonstration, a Bollywood

Fusion Dance, a Jazz music performance and a Maori Haka to give just a few examples of the assembly’s outstanding performances.

We all had an excellent, enjoyable and rewarding day, and look forward to doing it all again next year.

P.E. department making strides at Regents International School Pattaya Alex McInnes Regents International School Pattaya’s P. E. Department has gone through a real shake-up in the last year. A facilities makeover, coupled with a new head of department in Roslyn McConnell, has started to turn heads, both within the school and across the wider community.

Clearly someone who thoroughly enjoys their job, Mrs. McConnell is effusive when explaining her teams’ ethos of ‘love sport for life’.

“It’s our way of encouraging our students to embrace an appreciation of physical activity that will allow them to find either elite sporting success or a love for sport as part of a full and healthy

lifestyle,” she said.

The brand new Early Years (Kindergarten) and Primary (Elementary) ‘Fundamental Movement Programme’ is putting this statement into practice from the word go.

“I wanted to expand curriculum time for Early Years and Primary students to give them a taste of what P.E. offers, as I believe a healthy body equals a healthy mind.

Our department can be equally important as anything else in the development of our children,” Roslyn said.

A Saturday programme is another way in which sport is permeating deeper into the culture of Regents International School Pattaya. With already 300 kids signed up to sports such as gymnastics,

judo, tennis and badminton, to name a few, life in Regents’ P.E. department has never been busier.

Through generous investment by Nord Anglia Education, a new all-weather running track has been installed and new sports and play equipment is now being put to good use by students of all ages.

“We have certainly been well-looked after by Nord Anglia Education in the last few months or so: the running track is amazing and will add to the training our sportspeople are already doing. Of course, as a teacher I always want more and I have a wish-list that includes a brand new fitness centre,” she added.

These changes have already brought about success, with the both the girls’ senior football team claiming the silver medal at the annual Phuket tournament and the boys’ team reaching the semi-finals.

Regents’ cross-country runners had a competitor on the podium for every one of the boys’ and girls’ age groups in its most recent fixture and the first rugby match in a long time was held at Regents, resulting in a narrow loss to the Thai Barbarians.

Mrs. McConnell has high hopes for her charges at the up-and-coming Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA) tournament, with football, swimming, rugby and basketball all in line to do great things.

All new gymnastics equipment.

“FOBISIA will be a good yardstick to see how we are going as a school against some of the bigger schools in South-East Asia, but we also want to continue to get competitive action for our sports teams and individuals all year round by promoting games with schools in Bangkok and elsewhere.”

The Idea of a Nord Anglia Education games is an idea that Mrs. McConnell likes the sound of, “Over 30 schools

from the group competing in somewhere like Dubai, New York or Switzerland would be the ultimate, but first we have to concentrate on getting our systems right, offering as many opportunities as we can and striving to make Regents International School Pattaya the school with the best physical education programme in all of Thailand.”

By the sounds of it, this task is overwhelmingly underway.

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PATTAYA MAIL

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014 19

E-mail: comhaps@pattayamail.com

Fax: 038-427596

ATTENTION! Public Service Announcements in our Community Happenings pages are FREE! All Commercial promotions will be charged at a very reasonable rate of 10 Baht per word.

Please send your Community Happenings to:

comhaps@pattayamail.com, DEADLINE: Saturday 5:00 PM Please contact us by E-mail for any information that you may require.

Events The next meeting of the Pattaya City Expats Club (PCEC) will be on Sunday, November 23. Everyone is warmly welcome. Dr. Peter Lewis will be speaking on the benefits of Platelet Enriched Plasma (PRP) and cell therapy treatments. The Club meets every Sunday morning at The Tavern by the Sea Restaurant located on the north end of Beach Road (part of the Amari Orchid Resort). The program starts at 10:30 a.m. with a buffet breakfast available from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

The Pattaya International Ladies Club (PILC) will be holding its annual Christmas Bazaar on Sunday November, 23 at the Holiday Inn Pattaya. The bazaar will be open from 10.00 a.m. until 4.00 p.m. and entrance cost for adults is 150 baht; children under 12 are allowed in free of charge. The event will feature over 70 vendor tables from all over Thailand and beyond selling handmade quilts, jewellery, designer clothing, leather handbags, Christmas decorations, beauty products, household products and much more. Santa will be located in his grotto for all to visit and the foot massage ladies will be present to sooth tired feet. There will be a ‘pop-up’ café offering refreshments during the day and a Grand Raffle will see a lucky winner walk away with a great prize. Proceeds from the event will be used to help the disadvantaged in the community. For more information, go to website: www. pilc-pattaya.com.

A Joint Chambers Eastern Seaboard Networking Evening will be held at the Cape Dara Resort Pattaya on Friday, November 21, from 6.30 - 9.00 p.m. (last drinks served at 8.30 p.m.). Price of admission is THB 350 for members of BCCT, AustCham, AmCham, GTCC & SATCC and THB 750 for non-members. For more information and reservations, go to chamber websites: www.bccthai.com, www. austchamthailand.com or www.amchamthailand.com.

Hard Rock Pattaya will be holding its annual Charity Fundraiser event on November 21 featuring a concert by famous Thai singer Aof Pongsak. Tickets priced at Bt 2,990 & Bt 3,490 VIP include a welcome cocktail, grand buffet dinner, music show and charity auction.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Charity Fund, Huay Yai School, Rock The Farm, Rock The Lunch & Rock The School scholarship. For more information or reservations call 038 428 755-9 or E-mail: rsvp.pty@hardrockhotels.net.

The Pattaya Long Boat Racing Festival 2014 will be held on 22nd & 23rd November at Lake Mabprachan in East Pattaya. Along with boats racing for the HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s trophy there will also be a buffalo race, motorcycle motocross event and a folk drumming contest.

Events start from 09:00 until 18:00 and admission is free.

The Pattaya International Fireworks Festival 2014 will be held on Friday and Saturday 28th & 29th November. The festival typically features 45-minute shows by different nationalities and can sometimes start as late as 9 p.m. Together with the firework displays there will also be booths selling locally made products, a carnival-style parade, shows, concerts, magic and juggling acts and 3D painting photography along Beach Road.

Green Pattaya’s next scheduled monthly cleanup will take place on Friday, November 28. For details of the time and location, check www.facebook.com/ GreenPattaya.

The third annual Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show will take place from 27th to 30th November at Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Jomtien, Pattaya. Over 100 exhibitors and in excess of 6,000 visitors are expected at the show this year with its expanded four-day format. Leading luxury boat brands from around the world will be exhibiting as well as boat builders and accessories, boat services and technology, marine toys and gadgets, super bikes and cars, luxury real estate and resorts. There will also be an International Fishing Boat Competition (29th and 30th November) and the Boat & Yacht Thailand 2014 Conference (28th November). Other highlights include free yacht cruises, kayak and paddle boat experiences, an open-air drink and food festival with live band, jetpack flying board and radio control power boat demonstrations, games

and much more. For more information visit: www. facebook.com/oceanmarina pattayaboatshow.

Ploenchit Fair: Saturday 29 November, 10.00 a.m. - 8.00 p.m. at Bangkok Patana School.

Rotary Club Eastern Seaboard invites all Rotarians, friends & guests to join an evening of fine food and excellent entertainment at the club’s annual Christmas party to be held at the Siam Bayshore Resort in South Pattaya from 6 p.m. on Saturday, December 6. Tickets cost 1,200 baht and can be reserved by calling Bob Denzel at 081-715 20 51 or email: secretary@rotaryes.org. Dress code for the event is formal or smart.

TFI (Thai-Farang Initiative) will be holding its second Jolly Kids Xmas Party at Jameson’s Irish Pub & Restaurant on Sunday, Dec. 14 from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Bring the kids as Santa will give every child a Christmas gift. The kids’ buffet will include chicken nuggets, fish fingers, mini burgers, French fries, jelly and ice cream plus soft drinks. Magic shows will be performed by Doc Penguin and there will also be face painting & a bouncy castle plus a Grand Raffle with a fantastic selection of prizes available. Admission is free for all children. Also, order any Jameson’s Sunday roast dinner and 50% of the price shall be donated to the TFI charity fund. For more information, email info @tfi-events.com or visit facebook.com/funcharityevents.

BCCT Christmas Luncheon: Friday 12 December, 11.00 a.m. - 3.00 p.m. at Amari Watergate Bangkok.

(strongly recommended) phone 038 259 799 or email louismatahari@gmail.com or go through the website at: www.mataharipattaya.com.

The Thai Garden Resort offers nightly dining presentations with different themed buffets! Happy Hours are from 17:00 - 18:00 with most drinks at 50% discount. The “All You Can Eat Buffet” starts at 18:00 until 21:00 hours and offers a wide variety of soups, salads, bread, cold cuts, smoked salmon, choices of hot food dishes, live cooking stations and of course a home-made desserts selection. All this for just 399 baht net for adults and 199 baht net for children under 12 years old. What you see is what you pay, no additional service charges or VAT. For reservations call 038 370 614 or make your booking at www.thaigarden .com under “buffet reservation”. Thai Garden Resort is located on North Pattaya Road, 200 meters from the Dolphin roundabout and 200 meters before Tesco Lotus.

Saturday Night BBQ Buffet at The Bay Restaurant: Dine al fresco and enjoy a fantastic selection of meat and seafood BBQ items as well as international cuisine in the Saturday Night BBQ Buffet. Open from 6:30 p.m. 10 p.m. at The Bay Restaurant of Dusit Thani Pattaya.

Buffet price is THB 1,490++ per person (food only) - add a free flow of wine, beer, juice

and soft drinks at an additional THB 599++ per person. For reservations, call 038 425 611-7 Ext 2149-50.

Havana Bar & Terrazzo at Holiday Inn Pattaya offers the following on a weekly basis: Monday - signature cocktail at just THB 180 net per glass; Tuesday - enjoy all traditional and signature pizzas at only THB 279; Wednesday - local draft beer at THB 119 net per glass; Thursday - enjoy a selection of pasta dishes with a glass of house wine or beer at only THB 450 net/person; Friday - enjoy a BBQ seafood platter with a variety of local seafood. Price starts from THB 1,200 net; Saturday - enjoy

one of the best Mojitos in town at THB 159 net all night; Sunday - lucky draw, a chance to get 50% discount off your bill. Hi Club membership gets 10% discount. For more information or reservations, call 038 725 555 or email to: info@ holidayinn-pattaya.com.

Surf & Turf at Elements restaurant - Sheraton Pattaya Resort: Grilled Australian tenderloin, lobster & pumpkin hash, red wine sauce: THB 950++; Sautéed snow fish, braised beef cheek & mushroom ragout: THB 600++; Wok fried Szechuan lamb with sea scallops, Thai kale & Shaoxing wine: THB 450++; Tenderloin Carpaccio & crispy oysters, horseradish aioli: THB 425++; Crispy pork belly, blue crab & apple salad: THB 425++. For more information call 038 259 888 or email: info.pattaya@ sheraton.com.

Louis Restaurant is offering a new weekly set dinner menu alongside the regular a la carte menu items. The set menu includes a choice of starters, main courses and desserts. Louis Restaurant also offers a set lunch menu for THB 250-290. Louis is located on Naklua Soi 31 or North Pattaya Road Soi 6.

For reservations contact Vichai on mobile 081 001 3298 or email: alois.pattaya @gmail.com.

Ruffino Restaurant offers Monday to Wednesday from 7-9 p.m. a homemade pizza “buy 1 get 1 free” promotion and Chef Luca has created a delicious rustic 3-course set dinner perfectly paired with a carafe of red or white wine for THB 888 net per person, only available on Thursday’s from 6 to 10 p.m. At Oceana Restaurant from 6:30 to 10 p.m. daily enjoy a 4-course Royal Thai Cuisine set dinner for THB 777 net, including a

Enjoy delicious Thai and International cuisine at Mata Hari restaurant.

Continued on page 20

Thai Garden Resort chef merrily cutting away at the roast pig.

Dining As well as the excellent European food for which it is very well known in Pattaya (including some very rare Dutch items), Mata Hari restaurant also has a complete range of Thai cuisine, including Thai Isaan on request from Chef Jackie, herself coming from Isaan. Mata Hari restaurant is located at the top of the hill on Thappraya Road, and for reservations

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E-mail: comhaps@pattayamail.com From page 19 glass of red or white wine. A superb mid-week buffet featuring tasty European favourites is also available every Wednesday from 6.30 p.m. – 9.30 p.m. priced at THB 599 per person (add THB 400 for a free flow of beer). Afternoon Tea is also available daily from 3-5 p.m. at the Espresso Bar for THB 700++ per set for 2 persons, including scones and clotted

cream, freshly made sandwiches, cakes, tea and coffee or try one of the 17 wines available starting at 190 baht per glass with a complimentary snack. All outlets are located at the Centara Grand Phratamnak Pattaya on Pratamnak Road, Soi 5. For more information and bookings call 038 306 337 or e-mail: supparatchpi@chr.co.th.

Halal international buffet dinner @ Harbour - only THB 420 net per person. The

Fax: 038-427596 buffet dinner includes halal food, an international buffet line and many selections of dessert. The food is certified and cooked by a halal chef with 40 years experience.

Both indoor and outdoor dining options are available.

Harbour restaurant is located at the A-One Royal Cruise Hotel on Pattaya Beach Road (Soi 3), Open daily 6.00 pm - 10.00 pm. For more information, call 038 259 555 Ext 4236.

Sugar Hut Restaurant is open for lunch with set menu prices from 240 to 350 baht net/set. Menu items include chili fried rice, pork soup with tofu, noodles, fresh spring rolls, salad, fruit, desserts and more. For inquiries and reservations, call 038 364 186, 038 251 686.

Marco Polo Chinese Restaurant is famous for its authentic Shanghainese and Szechuan cuisines prepared to perfection by master Chinese chefs. Enjoy a dim sum lunch daily from 11.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. and dinner from 6.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. daily.

The Verandah Coffee Shop is also serving an international seafood BBQ buffet dinner every Saturday from 6.30 p.m. - 10.00 p.m. Price THB 995 net for adults and THB 550 net for children.

Also make sure to call in at the Montien Bakery Shop for freshly made cakes, pastries and breads plus a range

of Thai desserts. Open daily from 9.00 a.m. - 7.00 p.m. (Every day). For more information, call the Montien Hotel, Pattaya, tel. 038 428 155, 038 361 340 ext. 1620, 1621, or email pattaya@montien.com.

Edge restaurant at Hilton Hotel Pattaya offers a Monday “Post weekend BBQ” featuring freshly grilled sausages, Korean style pork cuts and chorizo burritos while Tuesday’s “Mediterranean Fare” includes Middle Eastern dips and salads, pizza and pasta. On Wednesday, Edge presents “Burgers, Salads and Gourmet Sandwiches” where guests can create their perfect burger, toss a fresh salad or grab a gourmet sandwich. The tastes of Southeast Asia, India, China and Japan come together for Thursday’s “Extended Asia” followed by Friday’s “Seafood Pattaya” where the crystal waters offer up fresh local prawns, crabs and lobsters served on ice or grilled.

Saturday’s “Classics & Confectionaries” presents timeless favorites such as Greek salad, oven-baked whole salmon, green curry and bouillabaisse and margherita pizza. In addition, guests will be able to indulge in traditional Thai desserts with a modern twist. Every Sunday, the chefs pull out all the stops and offer the hotel’s famous “Sunday Brunch” that brings together a wide selection from around the globe. Bookings are absolutely essential for this very popular event.

Monday to Thursday @ THB 480 net; Friday and Saturday @ THB 540 net, Sunday Brunch @ THB 1400 net; Wine Buffet @ THB 1100 net. “Seven Days, Seven Themes” is available from Mondays to Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 2.30 p.m. and from 12 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. on Sundays. An International Buffet Dinner is also available 7 days a week priced at THB 920 net on Monday Thursday and Saturday & Sunday, and THB 1100 net on Friday. Edge restaurant is located on the 14th floor of the Hilton Hotel Pattaya. For bookings, please dial +66 (0)38 253 000.

The Tavern by the Sea Restaurant introduces the following daily promotions: Monday Curry Night features the tastiest curries, naan bread and salad buffet for just THB 499 net per person. Wednesday is Ribs & Wings evening: finger licking good ribs and 6 different kinds of wings - all you can eat for THB 449 net per person. Thirsty Thursday Beer Buffet offers a Free Flow of all local draught beer including Chang, Tiger, Heineken and San Miguel. Price 699 THB net per person, starts from 18:00 – 21:00. Friday & Saturday Churrasco Nights offer prime meats and seafood, grilled to perfection on the fire and freshly skewered for you on the churrasco pens at the Tavern. All complemented by a full buffet of starters, side dishes and desserts. Only THB 749

net per person. Every buffet is open from 18.30 - 22.00 hrs.

There is also a daily happy hour from 11 am - 6 pm.

Watch all the premier live sports on one of the many widescreen TV’s or on the big projector screen (Sports hotline 038 418 419). Amari Pattaya, Beach Road, North Pattaya, Tel 038 418418.

Beach Resort Pattaya. For more information and reservations, call 038 714 981.

This November at Mantra Restaurant & Bar, Executive Chef Leonard Faust and the Mantra culinary team have selected the best oysters in the world: Flat Belon and Tsarskaya, Kumomoto, Majestic, Dutch Zeeland,

Monday Curry Night at Tavern by the Sea. Eat to the New Beat at Starz Diner located at the Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya between 2nd Road and Beach Road, Central Pattaya: A selection of Pan Asian and continental flavors, from the griddle, BBQ char-grill, pan, fryer, steamer, wok, and tandoori oven, as well as some really delicious desserts. Sat: THB 850++, SunFri: THB 750++ food only.

Sat: THB 1,080++, Sun-Fri: THB 980++ including free flow drinks. Children under 11 years of age eat for free.

Show time for live music is from 6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. For more information call 038 428 755-9 or go to http://pattaya. hardrockhotels.net.

Ginger & Lime presents a “Friday Night Thai Buffet” showcasing a wide variety of Thai cuisine, lots of live cooking stations and includes a vegetable carving show, flower arrangement demonstration, silver jewelry hand craft stall, fun games and traditional Thai live shows every Friday night from 6 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Price: THB 799++ (subject to 10% service charge and 7% VAT) per person. Ginger & Lime Restaurant is located at the Centara Grand Mirage

Sydney Rock, Andaman and Eagle Rock oysters will all be on the menu. Enjoy oysters served fresh on the half shell with your favourite condiments or try creations like the Bloody Mary Oyster Shooter, the Samurai Oysters Poached in Sake or treat yourself with the Lobster & Oyster Omelette. Prices start from 100 THB for natural oysters, 290 THB for dressed Fine de Claire oysters and 390 THB for other dishes with oysters. Mantra’s superb wine selection also offers a vast choice of great names from France, Italy, Continued on page 21

Friday night Thai buffet at Ginger & Lime.

VOL. XXII No. 47

From page 20 Australia and Chile by the glass or by the bottle. For more information and reservations, call 038 429 591 or email@mantra-pattaya.com.

Throughout the month of November, Oasis Restaurant offers the Mexican speciality dish of Chimichangas.

These traditional deep-fried burritos come with fillings of shredded chicken, pork, flank steak or fillet of fish for a taste of Tex-Mex cuisine.

Prices start at THB 250++ (subject to service charge and VAT). Oasis Restaurant is located at the lower Main Lobby near the water park at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya. Open daily from 06.00-23.00 hrs. For reservations, call 038 714 981.

Promotions eforea spa at Hilton Pattaya has announced its new special promotion package, “Relax, Renew and Emerge Brighter”.

Guests can book the package for only THB 3,500 and receive a 90-minute meditation massage, inspired by traditional Australian Aboriginal techniques, which focuses on instilling a deep sense of mental and physical relaxation. A choice of native aromatic oils is prescribed to suit your individual needs to rejuvenate, harmonize or detoxify. For an additional THB 500 guests can enjoy a 30-minute body scrub and receive an eforea music CD, which features soothing tunes that they can relax to in their own home.

For more information, call 038 253 000, email pattaya.info@hilton.com or visit eforeaspa.com.

Tea Tree Spa at Holiday Inn Pattaya is offering a 150 minutes promotional package featuring products by Carole Franck that aid the contouring process, reduce cellulite, firm muscles and improve the body’s natural detoxification processes.

Available every day at the Tea Tree Spa from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Price: THB 4,990 net per person. For more information and reservations, call 038 725 555 ext. 3902 or email: spa.reception@Holidayinnpattaya.com.

Spa Cenvaree at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort, Pattaya introduces a signature “Salt Pot Muscles Melter” treatment, which combines a deep tissue massage and hot salt pot compress to release tension in the shoulders and lower back muscles. Each pot contains a blend of coarse salt and medicinal herbs to provide relief to tired muscles.

Therapeutic oils such as Pettigrain, Eucalyptus and Lavender penetrate deeply into muscle tissue during this therapy and help rebalance your body. Price starts at 1,995++ baht for 90 minutes. For more information or reservations, contact Spa Cenvaree on 038 301 234 ext.

4333 or email: spacenvareecmbr @chr.co.th.

PATTAYA MAIL

The Cliff Spa at the Royal Cliff Beach Resort Pattaya is currently offering a ‘Jet Lag Massage’ for re-balancing the body system and a treatment of rose, geranium and orange oils rub to improve circulation and boost the skin texture and radiance.

Special price only 2,200 baht net for a 60-minute treatment from 1st October - 30th November 2014. For more information Tel: 038 250 421 ext.

2828/ 2628 or email: cliffspa@ royalcliff.com. Cliff Spa is open daily from 10:00-22:00 hrs.

Now at Café Kantary Sriracha visitors can enjoy a happy hour, featuring savings on a host of refreshing beverages. Every Wednesday from 1pm to 3pm, every visitor who purchases a beverage will receive a free beverage of equal or less value. The offer is limited to 2 free beverages per visitor, and excludes alcoholic beverages. For more information, please contact Café Kantary, Sriracha: Tel. 0-3831-410, or visit www.cafekantary.com.

the Regents Christmas Fair.

Bar Humbug will open one hour before the performance selling mulled wine and mince pies among other refreshments. Tickets are 200 baht and are available from The Regents International School Pattaya. Call 038 418 777.

The ZHdK String Orchestra from Switzerland will be performing a concert at the Siam Bayshore Resort on Monday, December 15 at 7 p.m. The evening program will include works by Mozart, Vivaldi, Mendelssohn, Elgar and Grieg. Tickets are priced at 600 baht at the door and are available to book in advance for early bird at 500 baht. For more information, send email to mongkolcha yasirisobhon@gmail.com or call Mr. Mongkol 081 682 8000.

Hard Rock Cafe Pattaya presents ‘Mix Tape’ every Friday night from 9 p.m. till 2 a.m. at the Moon Deck. A roster of four guest DJs play soulful funky sounds, deep house, tech and all manners of groovy tunes laced with

Fresh oysters at Mantra.

Indulge in luxurious honey with Breeze Spa’s two new products, the Almond Milk Honey Body Scrub and the Oat Honey Cookie Body Mask. These invigorating spa treatments are perfect to help restore the skin after a long, hot summer. With a special promotion across all Breeze Spas, guests booking any 90-minute massages will enjoy a selection of one of the treatments from the honey collection. Valid from now until 30 November 2014.

Breeze Spa is located at Amari Pattaya at the north end of Beach Road. For more information or to make a reservation visit, www.breezespa.com.

Entertainment The world famous Dutch Swing College Band is heading to Pattaya for a free ‘live’ concert on Thursday 27 November at the Beachfront Sunken Amphitheatre of the Central Festival Pattaya Beach shopping mall. The performance will take place from 18.30 hrs – 22.00 hrs and admission is free of charge to all music lovers.

Regent’s School Family Pantomime will be “A Christmas Carol” staged in the Globe Theatre. Performances are on the 27th, 28th & 29th of November at 6:30 p.m. and a matinee performance at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday 29th just after

rock & roll. For more information and/or reservations, call 038 426635, send e-mail to hrcpr.pty@hardrockhotels .net or go to www.facebook .com/HardRockCafePattaya.

The North Star Library on Sukhumvit Road, north Pattaya holds regular Thai language classes Mon - Fri from 10.30 till 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. till 2.30 p.m. Cost of admission is 100 baht per session for library members and 200 baht for non-members.

Private lessons are also available for 200 baht per hour. In addition, the library also holds Yoga training every Tuesday from 1 - 2 p.m. at the Father Ray Foundation. Cost is 1200 baht for 6 sessions (first session free).

For more information, call 081 575 4854 or email wan_nujan@yahoo.com Come and enjoy live music at the Jazz Pit Pub. Listen to great music by Thomas Reimer, one of the most famous European Jazz guitarists, playing live on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 7.00 p.m. - 11.00 p.m.

The Jazz Pit is located on Soi 5 off Pattaya Beach and 2nd Road. Tel: 038 428 374. And you can also catch Thomas performing on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. at the Sugar Hut restaurant on Thappraya Road, call 038 364 186 for details.

Groups & Associations Al-Anon Family Group: Are you bothered by someone else’s drinking? Maybe we can help. Sunday meeting at 2 p.m., Pattaya, Satree Pattaya Center, 519/56 Pattaya 2nd Road, Soi Skaw Beach near the Skaw Beach Hotel, next door to Scandalia Restaurant. Thursday meeting is at 10:30 a.m. on the 4th floor of Jomtien Plaza Condotel. For more information, call the Helpline 092 674 4109 or Richard 084 867 4138.

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in Pattaya: The Pattaya Group meets Wednesday and Thursday at noon (open); Monday, Tuesday and Friday at 5 p.m. (closed) and Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 7:30 p.m. (closed) at the Satree Pattana Center, Soi Skaw Beach (2nd Rd): contact Mick on 087 994 6224, Bob 087 939 2463 or Joe 082 715 2082. The Good Morning Pattaya Group meets 9 a.m. every morning.

All meetings are ‘open’: contact 084 564 8479. The Jomtien Group meets every day at noon at Jomtien Long Stay Hotel: contact: Warren on 086 158 9688, Andy 080 570 1404 or Henk 086 070 6684, Thai contact: Somchai 081 445 3302. The Scandinavian Group meets on Tuesdays and Fridays 6 p.m. at the Norwegian Seaman’s Church, Thappraya Road Soi 7: contact Hans 085 135 7755 or Rune (Rayong) 089 754 9515. 10.30 a.m. meetings every day at Satree Pattana Centre on Soi Skaw Beach off Second Road. Call 084 564 8479.

For the past 28 years the Samaritans of Thailand have been providing confidential crisis intervention services over the telephone.

The English-speaking unit, Samaritans English Help Line operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide support to the expatriate community. English-speaking staff, trained in crisis intervention will provide active, non-judgmental and empathetic listening services on the phone. All calls will be handled on an anonymous basis and are free of charge. Please call (02) 713-6791 (24hrs a day, 7 days a week).

Overeaters Anonymous meetings in Pattaya/Jomtien - The ‘Up to You’ group meets Wednesdays at 9:3010:30 a.m. in the housing area just behind Pan Pan Restaurant in Jomtien on Thappraya Road. Call Steve at 038-364207(h) or 089-250-1359 (cell) for directions or more information.

Narcotics Anonymous Hotline: 082 811 2686. There are 3 English speaking meetings in Pattaya near Central Festival and 2 more in Jomtien each week. Also regular Thai speaking meetings at 12 Midday every Sunday and Persian Farsi speaking meetings at 5.30 pm on Thursdays.

Please call the Hotline for details.

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014 21

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VOL. XXII No. 47

by Colin Kaye

Mission in Chile They were making wine - of a sort - in South America a good many years before Shakespeare was born. In the early 1500s, Spanish Franciscan missionaries planted grapes in parts of North and South America, largely for use in making sacramental and table wine. The grapes had come from Spain and for reasons too obvious to explain, they were known locally as Mission. Until recently though, nobody was sure exactly what they were.

Only in 2006 did researchers in Madrid discover that the DNA of the Mission is identical to that of a largely forgotten Spanish grape called the Listan Prieto which was popular during the sixteenth century. And here’s an interesting thing, this grape is also known in Spain as Palomino, the primary white grape used to make Sherry, giving a bit of weight to the notion that the early missionaries might also have made fortified wine.

The skills of vine-growing and wine-making travelled with them through Peru into Chile and eventually into Argentina. Their wine was almost certainly pretty rough by today’s standards and it wasn’t until the late nineteenth century that wines of quality began to appear, as a result of new plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Carmenere.

Chile and Argentina make more wine than any other countries in South America and in terms of volume they’re both among the top ten wine producers in the world. Most Chilean wines come from the Central Valley, or Valle Central if you prefer a bit of local colour. With cool, rainy winters and warm summers, the valley has high daytime temperatures moderated by cool nights. It’s ideal for growing a wide variety of grapes.

Las Condes wines come from the distinguished Garces Silva family, which has been involved in wine production for three generations. The wines are exceptional bargains and I had to go back to check that the prices were right.

This is the kind of money you’d have paid a couple of years ago, because wines of this quality would normally be around the Bt. 595 mark. So if you can, try them before the price goes up. Oh, and in case you’re wondering, Las Condes is a popular and trendy neighbourhood of Santiago, Chile’s capital city.

Las Condes Sauvignon Blanc 2013 (white), Chile (Bt. 399 @ Friendship) This is a very pale gold with hints of green, giving a clue to its youthfulness. It has a delicate floral aroma of sweet, ripe gooseberries with a hint of grassiness and dry herbs.

You might think you can pick up the smell of pineapples, but actually, they’re gooseberries. Definitely gooseberries. Even the dogs agreed.

The wine has a gorgeously soft mouth-feel with loads of fruit well forward (gooseberries, surprisingly), but there are hints of passion fruit and a faint taste of apples.

I thought I could pick up a suggestion of mandarin oranges too. When you get complex flavours coming through like this, it’s a sign of a well-made wine. It’s a medium-bodied easy drinker, well-balanced and fairly dry with a dash of very mild acidity. There’s a lingering citrus-like fruity finish which incidentally is another feature of a well-made wine.

At only 12% alcohol content, this fresh young Sauvignon is a terrific drink on its own, but it would pair well with fish, light chicken dishes, goat cheese or even Japanese sushi.

La Rinconada vineyard, source of Las Condes wines.

Las Condes Carmenere 2012 (red), Chile (Bt. 399 @ Friendship) Three hundred years ago, the French Carménère grape was widely planted in Bordeaux but these days it’s almost impossible to find in France. In Chile, however, it grows profusely and has become Chile’s national grape. Most of the Spanishspeaking Chileans usually pronounce the name as “kahrmin-YEHR” but others prefer “KAHR-min-air-ray”. Up to you, as they say in these parts. In any case, I don’t suppose the wine sales ladies in the supermarket are remotely interested in the finer points of Spanish pronunciation.

This wine has a lovely sweet, jammy aroma of black fruits with a suggestion of dried herbs and spices (cinnamon, I’d guess) in the background. It’s a rich ruby-red with flecks of purple and has a very gentle, almost silky mouth-feel. With loads of fruit up-front and a pleasing earthy dryness to the taste, there are subtle hints of sweetness and spices. It’s medium-bodied and tastes vaguely similar to a Merlot, but with a more velvety texture.

The tannins are soft and supple and there’s a lingering dry, peppery finish. At just 12.5% alcohol content it’s a very attractive easy, relaxing drinker. It’s a bit like settling into an old and comfortable leather sofa.

Las Condes Merlot 2012 (red), Chile (Bt. 399 @ Friendship) This is a bright ruby-red wine which looks very inviting.

Swirl it around in the glass and those rather satisfying “legs” will appear. This, of course is why you need a large wine glass so that you can fill it about one third full, thus allowing space for the essential swirling to release the aromas. Red fruit, cherries and strawberries will greet you when you stick your nose into the glass. You’ll probably pick up vanilla and plums in the background, with possibly a hint of dry herbs.

By the way, this is yet another reason for a large wine glass - big enough to get your nose inside. You see, a few dainty sniffs from somewhere above the glass is just not enough.

Get your snout right in there and go for it like a bloodhound.

The fruit is well-forward and the wine has an attractive, smooth mouth-feel. It’s completely dry, fairly light-bodied and well-balanced. You’ll notice the very soft tannins and the satisfying long dry finish with its hints of citrus.

Drink this on its own if you want, because it’s only about 12% alcohol content. However, it would make a good partner for red meats or rich mushroom dishes. This is a splendid wine which I shall buy again, but if it’s all gone when I get back to the shop, I’ll know who to blame.

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A fun wine tasting evening in the Royal Cliff Grand Ballroom Dr. Iain Corness Appreciation of wine is a very personal experience.

What you may enjoy, your partner may not. There is no universal tasting, but rather than rush out and buy bottles that you may regret later, there is another way. This is via the popular wine tastings.

Dr Iain Corness, a founding member of the deVine Club reminisces about the days when it all began.

Antonello Passa, GM of the Royal Cliff Hotels Group, welcomes deVine club members and guests to the grand celebration.

Now there are the formal wine tastings, complete with spittoons and water to drink so that you are not being influenced by the previous wine.

It is from tastings like this that the wine connoisseurs grade the vineyards’ wines and you can (almost) take it as read that a wine with a score over 90 is a “good” wine.

Another style of wine tasting, as used so successfully by the Royal Cliff, is to have different wine suppliers dotted around a room (in this case the Grand Ballroom) plus food stations so that the wine tasting members of the deVine Wine Club are safe to drive home after the two hour tasting session.

The food stations were, as always, under the watchful eye of executive Chef Walter Thenisch, and the range and standard was without flaw. I have mentioned before that Walter, with his years of experience could so easily just re-run something he produced years before - but he doesn’t. He is as up to date as a young chef with his first toque ready to conquer the

world left to him by Escoffier himself.

For me, the wines which took my fancy included an amazingly named Verdejo Sauvignon Blanc Sexy & Cool Bodegas Arúspide, Tierra de Castilla, represented by BNK Pattaya Wine complete with some lovely young sexy and cool representatives.

It was also impossible to go past the Wine Dee Dee stand with the Stonefish Merlot 2010. I backed up a couple of times for that, but on the third attempt at indulgence, they had run out, and there were eight bottles originally!

Bangkok Beer and Beverage had an amusing Gérard Bertrand Crémant de Limoux AOP, which I also enjoyed more than once.

With the DeVine Wine Club members circulating around the ballroom gave everyone the opportunity to compare their choices with those of others, and of course there was a wide disparity, as there should be with such a personal thing as wine appreciation.

For those who were unable to attend, I have attached the list of wines and suppliers.

Read Pattaya Mail and you won’t miss the next DeVine Wine Club event.

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014 23

24

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014

“THE WEEK” RUNS FROM NOVEMBER 21, 2014 - NOVEMBER 27, 2014

Aries 21 March - 20 April The first half of the week may involve a dilemma.

However, with the right strategy you’ll be able to sort this out. The main thing is to ask for help - if you need it. So don’t be too proud. Later, adventure beckons, as the New Moon in Sagittarius encourages you to expand your horizons.

Taurus 21 April - 21 May Being patient with someone who disagrees with you may result in a breakthrough later, so it’s worth keeping the peace. Though you might meet with obstacles this week, with tact you’ll be able to navigate your way through. Financially, there’s an opportunity for a fresh start.

Gemini 22 May - 21 June Dealing with pressure may be part of your remit this week, but handling it well might boost your confidence too. In addition, taking the time to help someone out will reflect on you positively. Also, the New Moon in Sagittarius can be a sign of better things to come around relationships.

Cancer 22 June - 23 July Are passions running high? Then you’ll need to contain the situation with some serious conversation. Indeed, don’t try to suppress your emotions, so do try to find a balance between the two. Meanwhile, you’re encouraged to consider a new diet or exercise routine Cancer.

Leo 24 July - 23 August Someone with an attitude problem may irritate you, so try to keep your feelings in check. Later though, the focus shifts to leisure and pleasure, fun and romance. A fabulous New Moon in Sagittarius can be helpful for enlivening a relationship, or expressing yourself more fulsomely.

Virgo 24 August - 23 September You may need to apply extra staying power regarding a project or plan that’s been rather languishing.

Yet, with a final burst of concentration you can get there and feel rightly proud of the results and of yourself. Gradually the focus will shift to home and family affairs Virgo.

Libra 24 September - 23 October By combining resources with another, you may be able to go ahead with a pricey purchase that would have been impossible otherwise. Later, you can feel motivated to connect with someone you haven’t heard from in a while. Expanding social options can enhance chances of success.

Scorpio 24 October - 22 November If you’re worried about something, don’t procrastinate. Tackle it as soon as possible so you’re free and ready to take advantage of the opportunities around you.

Where an important goal is concerned, a little planning could see you succeeding with ease. Avoid too much splurging.

PATTAYA MAIL

Crossword No 1112

Classic Tailor

1 Mark as correct (4) 3 Barely adequate (8) 9 Ruled (7) 10 Growing old (5) 11 Ernie (anag.) - girl’s name (5) 12 Cotton fabric (6) 14 Breathe in (6) 16 Loud piercing cry (6) 19 Threefold (6) 21 Italian sauce (5) 24 Incorrect (5) 25 In attendance (7) 26 Emphasised (8) 27 Object of worship (4)

Down 1 Marvellous (8) 2 Felony (5) 4 Kidnap (6) 5 Shoulder-wrap (5) 6 Type of light soft roll (7) 7 Poultry products (4) 8 Ailing (6) 13 Deathless (8) 15 Haven (7) 17 Imitated (6) 18 Folk (6) 20 Young attendants (5) 22 Horse for riding (5) 23 Nocturnal birds (4)

Answer to 1111 Across: 1 Disturb, 5 Grain, 8 Clout, 9 Trojans, 10 Enlarge, 11 Story, 12 Stride, 14 Scheme, 18 Dives, 20 Uniform, 22 Vermont, 23 Reeds, 24 Leeds, 25 Riposte.

Down: 1 Decrees, 2 Spoil, 3 Uttered, 4 Bitter, 5 Gross, 6 A la mode, 7 Nasty, 13 Reverse, 15 Chirrup, 16 En masse, 17 Guitar, 18 Devil, 19 Stops, 21 Overs.

Ten-Minute Sudoku An easy Sudoku puzzle that should not take long to complete.

The rules of Sudoku are simple. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Each row must contain one of each digit. So must each column and each 3x3 box.

Answer next week.

Last week’s answers:

No. 015

Capricorn 22 December - 20 January A social event might surprise you with the Sun Saturn connection bringing a fascinating meeting your way. Friday’s Mercury Mars tie-up can be great for networking with a view to expanding your social circle.

Yet by the weekend you can find yourself happiest in your own company.

Aquarius 21 January - 19 February A stubborn Saturn influence suggests someone could prove to be inflexible. Yet, if they’re not receptive to what you have to say, all is not lost.

You may have to rethink your strategy first though.

Meanwhile, the New Moon inspires you to join a club or be more socially adventurous.

NEWLY LAUNCHED! Read your Daily - Weekly - Monthly Horoscope Log on to www.pattayamail.com/horoscope

sponsored by

Across

Sagittarius 23 November - 21 December If a situation seems intense early on, take time out to reflect on your priorities and get some advice from a sage friend. A complex domestic matter may test your patience. The New Moon in your sign on Saturday urges you to rethink key plans or give yourself a glamorous makeover.

Pisces 20 February - 20 March Are you brooding about something? If so, get it off your chest so you can enjoy the rest of the week. In addition, if you’re seeking adventure or new experiences, it’s not the same as planning for them, so think about making a start. Later, don’t promise more than you can deliver Pisces.

VOL. XXII No. 47

Answers next week.

VOL. XXII No. 47

KOTO defends his way of doing things Editor; Re: KOTO to be commended, however ... (PM mailbag Friday 7th November 2014) - Aloha Margaret: You must be a newbie to Thailand or at least to Jomtien. KOTO has been doing this in the Jomtien Beach area for 13 plus years, received certificates from the Governor of Chonburi, 2007,

Pattaya City Hall, 2011, Pattaya’s Expat Greatest Contributor, 2013.

The reason there are pictures on the posters, also written in Thai, English, Russian, German, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, is so children or people that can’t read, still get the message.

A tad more research before you talk the talk without

walking the walk could do wonders for you. KOTO has removed more plastic, Styrofoam, toxic cigarette butts, bottle caps and other trash in one week, than all of his posters put together.

Some people read them, some change their bad habits, some wake up; trust me, I see it happen daily.

Gerry KOTO Rasmus

Re: KOTO to be commended, however ...

Editor, Re: KOTO to be commended, however ... (PM mailbag Friday 7th November 2014) - I am also from Sydney and have seen the

work that people like Ian Kiernan have done since 1989. I quote: “In 1989 an ‘average Australian bloke’ had a simple idea to make a difference in his own back-

Complaining about local TV Editor; Re: Satellite television in Thailand (PM Mailbag Friday, 24 October 2014) - I wish it just commercials contributing to dissatisfaction with Thai TV, but the ages old programming combined with movies apparently bought for next to nothing starring unknown children or even dogs. Thai TV producers

should forced to watch KBS from Korea which has current programming with English either spoken or captioned and real, live entertainers, not Thai so called “Super Stars”. Those producers realizing their shows are mid 1960’s would voluntarily quit and find other work.

Don Aleman

Sticking up for KOTO Editor; Re: KOTO to be commended, however ... (PM mailbag Friday 7th November 2014) - KOTO has been doing an excellent job over the past several years. Yes, maybe they need to reduce their own environmental

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PATTAYA MAIL

footprint. However, the work they do in cleaning up the area, and more importantly the information they pass on to thousands of people each year is of great value.

We need more people like KOTO. Brian

Write to the Editor:

E-mail: mailbag@pattayamail.com Note: Letters printed herein in no way reflect the opinions of the editors or writers for Pattaya Mail, but are unsolicited letters from our readers, expressing their own opinions. No anonymous letters or those without genuine addresses are printed, and, whilst we do not object to the use of a nom de plume, preference will be given to those signed.

Pattaya Emergency Numbers Pattaya Call Center ................................ 1337 Police Station .......................................... 191 - Pattaya ................................................... 038 424 186 - Banglamung ......................................... 038 221 800-1 Highway Police ....................................... 038 392 001 Fire Brigade ............................................. 199 Pat. Int. Hopsital ..................................... 038 428 374-5 Bkk-Pat Hospital ..................................... 038 259 911 TAT Central Office: Region 3 Pattaya . 038 428 750 Tourist Police ......................................... 038 429 371, 1155 . .................................................................. 038 410 044 (FAX)

yard - Clean Up Sydney Harbour. The event received an enormous public response with more than 40,000 Sydneysiders donating their time and energy to clean up the harbour.”

KOTO is 76 years old now and has been cleaning Jomtien Beach, feeding the stray dogs and helping the homeless Thai people with water, milk, toothbrush/toothpaste and sometimes money for 14 yrs that I know of. I would suggest not many 76 year old farang would spend 6 to 8 hours per day doing this.

As far as laminated posters are concerned, if you really look you will see that they are written in Thai, English and Russian and with simple pictures to illustrate to people that cannot read.

I can in fact tell you that KOTO is very much loved by the Thai people in Jomtien. I think you should show a little bit more respect for KOTO instead of critising him from your ivory tower.

The good he does far outweighs your concerns for laminated posters.

You say you have worked on several ‘Eco’ type ads & campaigns, maybe it is time “you walk the talk” and get down to the beach and help clean and educate the people and also talk to KOTO, maybe then you will step down from your ivory tower.

David Ward

25

Damaged by trucks Editor; Re: Sukhumvit Road patched (PM Friday, 14 November 2014) - Damaged by heavy trucks, heh? Wouldn’t be the same trucks that are used by developers for excavations at all the condos being built

in Jomtien would it? They have also damaged many of the minor concrete roads between the sites and Sukhumvit - maybe they should be forced to pay a road repair levy before they receive any construction permits?

Pattaya City Hall should urgently fix the southbound lanes of Sukhumvit near the Traffic Police Station, and Jomtien Second Road near Rompo Market next.

John Guru

Correction Editor; Ref: Story page 4, Gregory Scott Grinstead. I respectfully know you can only print whatever is told to you in good faith but I will correct the story for you.

The deceased lived in View Talay 1A, Jomtien and not in Ocean View, Naklua. His girlfriend contacted my

wife while we were in Bangkok, she told me and I phoned our Australian friend from Bangkok and asked him to gain access to the condo. That is when he was found.

His death was an aneurysm caused by high blood pressure which burst a vessel near his heart. I have

today come back from the US Embassy and the Royal Thai Police General Hospital with the all the paperwork concerning his passing.

Thank you for printing the original story and I hope you don’t mind the correction.

Very best regards, say hello to Doc for me, Jules

PILC plans out this year’s Christmas Bazaar

(L to R) Bernardo de la Garza, F&B Manager at the Holiday Inn, joins PILC members Raegan Barnes, Joyce Aldridge President Helle Rantzen, Sue Tait and Nancy Aly-Hegazy.

Paul Strachan Pattaya International Ladies Club President Helle Rantsen teamed up with PILC members Nancy Aly-Hegazy, Raegan Barnes, Joyce Aldridge and Sue Tait, and the Food & Beverage Manager of the Holiday Inn, Bernardo de la Garza, to go over the final details of this year’s Christmas Bazaar.

Now in its 21st year, this highly popular event continues to bring a touch of the festive season to Pattaya.

PATTAYA MAIL PUBLISHING CO., LTD.

It will be held on Sunday the 23rd of November at the Holiday Inn Pattaya and will feature an abundance of stalls selling handicrafts, homemade preserves, and Xmas decorations. A massage area for Mums will be set up whilst the kids are entertained by Santa or have their faces painted.

Entrance is only 150 baht with children under 12 gaining entry free of charge.

For more information go to: www.pilcpattaya.com

Member

62/284-286 Moo 12, Thepprasit Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150.

Administration, Advertising and Editorial Offices: Tel: 038 411 240-1, 038 413 240-1 • Fax: 038 427 596 E-mail: ptymail@pattayamail.com • Website: http://www.pattayamail.com Managing Director: Pratheep S. Malhotra e-mail: pratheep@pattayamail.com Executive Editor: Daniel M. Dorothy e-mail: dan@pattayamail.com Sports Editor : Martin Bilsborrow e-mail: martin@pattayamail.com Special Correspondent: Peter Cummins e-mail: npetercummins@hotmail.com General Manager/Advertising Kamolthep Malhotra e-mail: prince@pattayamail.com Business Development Director: Suwanthep Malhotra e-mail: tony@pattayamail.com Editor: Nopniwat Krailerg e-mail: editor@pattayamail.com Advertising Department: Primprao Somsri e-mail: poo@pattayamail.com PMTV Production Manager: Paul Strachan e-mail: paul@pattayamail-tv.com Director of Communications Supa Kukarja e-mail: sue@pattayamail-tv.com News Department: Boonlua Chatree, Manus Boonyakovit, Surasak Huasoon, Jetsada Homklin, Urasin Khantaraphan, Patcharapol Panrak, Tanachot Anuwan, Theerarak Suthathiwong (e-mail: newsroom@pattayamail.com) © Copyright Pattaya Mail Publishing Co., Ltd.

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Pattaya Ladies ‘dress to impress’ for Melbourne Cup @ Pullman Pattaya Hotel G

Ryan Moore and Protectionist on the way to victory.

Nancy Aly-Hegazy Special Events Chair PILC

Maleena Wijanjuntr with Raegan Phillips wore the the most beautiful dress most beautiful hat. of the day.

Louisa from Regardez Moi presents Raegan with her prize for ‘best hat’.

The lovely Sibine and Olga enjoying the party atmosphere with a glass of bubbly.

Every year, on the first Tuesday in November, Melbourne hosts the spectacular horse race that stops a nation, the Melbourne Cup. The first ever Melbourne Cup was held back in 1861 and the race has since cemented itself as a huge part of Australia’s sporting, fashion and social culture.

This year, the Pattaya International Ladies Club (PILC) in collaboration with the Pullman Pattaya Hotel G decided to get in on all the excitement and host a Melbourne Cup event right here in Pattaya.

In line with the ‘fashions on the field’ and ‘dress to impress’ theme associated with the event, over 100 ladies (and a handful of gents) made their way over to the Pullman Hotel on the Tuesday morning dressed in their finest, most fabulous outfits and spectacular looking hats. It was truly an amazing and colorful sight sure to make the job difficult for the judges who would be choosing our best dressed and best hat winners.

The morning started off in great style with a photo shoot, and a much needed cold glass of bubbly for the glamorous attendees. This was soon followed by a resort-style fashion show, provided to us by one of Pattaya’s favorite designers, Louisa, and her wonderful label Regardez Moi. Meanwhile, guests were invited to enjoy a very elegant canapé style buffet that included a live sushi station!

Race time saw the crowd hushed and the volume turned up as we all tuned in to watch the race that in this instance stopped 2 nations, the 154th Melbourne Cup live from Flemington Racecourse. The thought of winning one of the prizes on offer from the Cup Sweep only added to the excitement of the big day.

PILC and their generous sponsors, the Pullman Hotel, Regardez Moi, Breeze Jewelry and Jeff Thomsen leather goods all provided the prizes for the Cup Sweeps.

Congratulations to all our winners who won amongst other things, spa vouchers, hotel accommodation, handbags, jewelry, food and beverage vouchers as well as bottles of wine.

The Cup Sweeps, as well as being lots of fun, allowed PILC to raise over 50,000 baht for its various charities. This was a fantastic result and once again the PILC would like to thank all those involved in making the day such a huge success, our sponsors, members and friends.

A special mention and thank you must go to Marc and Daw from the Pullman, and to Louisa from Regardez Moi for helping make the day such a huge success.

The feedback we received from the event was amazing and as such you don’t want to miss our next one which is a shopping extravaganza.

The Christmas Bazaar is our next special event and will be held at the Holiday Inn Pattaya on the 23rd November. See you there!

Marc (Pullman) and Helle (President PILC) present Bernadette, the lucky Grand Sweep winner with her prize.

Elfi and Lela look beautiful in their fabulous hats.

We are the ladies in green and we love to be seen!

PILC members and friends show off their ‘fashion on the field’.

Great turn out for the PILC Melbourne Cup celebrations right here in Pattaya.

Our fabulous fashionistas enjoy the view and a photo opportunity from the Pullman balcony.

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FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014 27

Horseshoe Point hosts second annual Able the Disabled Countryside Challenge

The top seven finalists in the trotting category.

Derek Franklin The second annual Able the Disabled Countryside Challenge took place recently at Horseshoe Point.

Twenty children and teenagers, all with varying special needs, competed over a series of challenges, all with the hope of lifting the winner’s trophy.

Organised by Sandra Cooper and her wonderful team of dedicated volunteers, the competition saw the children riding horses while performing a series of activities, all under the watchful gaze of the judges.

While the competition looked like a lot of fun, there was a serious side to the event. The Able the Disabled Foundation has been providing weekly hippotherapy sessions for several years, with the aim of improving the posture and balance as well as increasing muscle strength of children with Down’s syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism and other intellectual disabilities.

Due to the varying levels of ability, the children competed

in two categories, those who were able to trot while on a horse, and those whose horse walked around the course.

The aim of the competition was to judge the children on their skills, not just the way they rode their mount, but also the way they balanced themselves, controlled their horse and used their motor skills to perform a set of activities. Activities included guiding the horse around a series of large plastic animals, picking fruit of a tree and dropping it into a bucket, and posting a letter in the postbox, all while sitting on the back of a horse.

Many of the children competing attend the Father Ray Center for Children with Special Needs, and there were also two international competitors from Russia, who, like all the other children competing, received a medal for their efforts.

While the winner of the trotting group, a young man called Tom, lifted the winner’s trophy for the second year running, the competition was not all about winning. It was

Rivals in the ring, but friends forever.

about taking part, showing off their skills, making their families proud - the medals, which every competitor received, were just a bonus.

A very happy Tom, winner of the Miss Ploy, winner of the walk trotting category for the second category, receives the winner’s trophy from Sandra Cooper. consecutive year.

After winning gold and silver medals at the recent Summer Olympics, this young man had to Miss Bee, this year’s runner-up. settle for seventh place this time.

Contemplating his strategy.

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Review: ‘Interstellar’ a sublime cosmic knockout Jake Coyle Los Angeles (AP) - Since his breakthrough with the backward-running “Memento,” Christopher Nolan has made a plaything of time. In “Interstellar,” he slips into its very fabric, shaping its flows and exploding its particles. It’s an absurd endeavor. And it’s one of the most sublime movies of the decade.

As our chief large-canvas illusionist, Nolan’s kaleidoscope puzzles have often dazzled more than they have moved, prizing brilliant, hocus-pocus architecture over emotional interiors. But a celestial warmth shines through “Interstellar,” which is, at heart, a fatherdaughter tale grandly spun across a cosmic tapestry.

There is turbulence along the way. “Interstellar” is overly explanatory about its physics, its dialogue can be clunky and you may want to send composer Hans Zimmer’s relentless organ into deep space. But if you take these for blips rather

than black holes, the majesty of “Interstellar” is something to behold.

The film opens in the near future where a new kind of Dust Bowl, one called “the blight,” brings crop-killing storms of dust upon the Midwest farm of engineerturned-farmer Cooper (Matthew McConaughey) and his two children, the adventuresome 10-year-old Murph (Mackenzie Foy) and the 15year-old budding farmer Tom (Timothee Chalamet).

The rustic homestead, where Cooper and his father-in-law (John Lithgow) drink beer on the porch, recalls the Indiana home of “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” — an early hint that “Interstellar” — moving and sentimental — will be more Spielberg (who was once attached to direct) than Kubrick.

In the imperiled climate, space exploration is viewed as part of the “excess” of the 20th century. Textbooks now read that the moon landings were faked. But Cooper, a former NASA pilot, still believes in science’s capacity

Matthew McConaughey (left) and Anne Hathaway are shown in a scene from the film, ‘“Interstellar.”

(AP Photo/Paramount Pictures, Melinda Sue Gordon) for greatness. He seethes: grandeur.

“We used to look up in the Nolan shoots for the stars, sky and wonder about our literally and cinematically, place in the stars. Now we when Cooper’s curiosity (he just look down and wonder and Murph tail a flying about our place in the dirt.” drone through the wheat The spirit of wonderment, fields) brings him to a secret too, has sometimes lacked in NASA lair run by a Dr. Brand our movies. Nolan — who (Michael Caine). Largeshot in both 35mm and 70mm scale dreaming has gone and prefers his films massive underground. They enlist on Imax, but not, thank our him to pilot a desperate misstars, in 3-D — remains one sion through a wormhole to of the few purveyors of follow an earlier expedition DeMille-sized big-screen that may have found planets capable of hosting human life.

Much discussion of gravity and relativity follows, as Nolan (who co-wrote the script with his brother Jonathan and consulted with theoretical physicist Kip Thorne) tries valiantly to place his quasi-plausible scifi tale within the realm of mathematics and science.

“Interstellar” is a trip, for

Making ‘Dumber’ sequel more fun than the first Marcela Isaza Los Angeles (AP) - Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels made another “Dumb & Dumber” film because fans asked for it, and the two actors said making the sequel was more fun than working on the 1994 original.

“We were kind of just meeting each other as we were doing the first one,” Daniels said in a recent interview.

“You got two different acting styles going on — is it going to even work? And the first one, we guessed right, and it did ...

“Now it’s just a lot easier.

We know more, we know what’s funny, we know the two characters well — all the stuff we didn’t know in the first one we already know in the second one, so we just get to do it again, only we hope better.”

“And we were blood doping,” Carrey added. “So that made it easier.”

sure, but it’s not a supernatural one. There will be no aliens poking forth from bellies or monument-blasting battles with extraterrestrials; it’s just about us humans.

The journey means Cooper will, under the best of circumstances, be gone for years. The parting from Murph, who resents the abandonment, is wrenching.

He’s a dutiful, driven father stepping out to work, only in another galaxy. All they can send him are video messages.

His crew are Brand’s daughter (Anne Hathaway), a pair of researchers (a wonderful David Gyasi and Wes Bentley) and a robot named TARS that looks like the monolith of “2001: A Space Odyssey” if it were a shapeshifting Transformer. Voiced

by Bill Irwin, it’s programmed to speak with 90 percent honesty and a dash of humor.

What happens when the space ship, Endurance, moves past Saturn and passes through the wormhole? For starters, Nolan and his cinematographer, Hoyte Van Hoytema, conjure beautiful galactic imagery, contorting space and, eventually, dimensions.

But what he’s really doing is dropping countless big ideas —science, survival, exploration, love — into a cosmic blender, and seeing what keeps its meaning out there in the heavenly abyss.

As in “The Dark Knight,” Nolan doesn’t investigate all of its philosophical

questions so much as juggle them in an often dazzling, occasionally frustratingly incomplete way.

But under extreme gravitational forces, the core of “Interstellar” holds. It remains tethered to Earth, toggling between barren, otherworldly landscapes and life back home on an increasingly uninhabitable planet. There, Murph (now played by Jessica Chastain) has grown into a physicist trying to solve an essential equation.

More than anything, “Interstellar” makes you feel the great preciousness of time, a resource as valuable as oxygen. A misadventure of a few hours on one watery planet, where relative time accelerates, costs the astronauts decades. Returning to the ship, Cooper watches videos of his kids growing up before his eyes and weeps uncontrollably.

All of the visual awe, the quantum mathematics, the seeming complexity of the hugely ambitious, nearly three hour-long film is just stardust clouding the orbit between a dad and his girl.

Whereas most science fiction withers out in space, “Interstellar” rockets home.

“Interstellar,” a Paramount Pictures release, is rated PG13 by the Motion Picture Association of America for “some intense perilous action and brief strong language.” Running time: 165 minutes. Three and a half stars out of four.

Director changes plot for Malaysian plane movie Nekesa Mumbi Moody Jim Carrey (left) and Jeff Daniels arrive at the premiere of “Dumb and Dumber To” in Los Angeles, Monday, Nov. 3. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/ Invision/AP) Daniels and Carrey reprise their roles as painfully dim pals Harry and Lloyd in “Dumb & Dumber To,” which opened this month. Reuniting on a sequel 20 years after the original wasn’t hard, Carrey said.

“Honestly, it was like we just did it yesterday and boom, we were back in it,” he said. “It was a fantastic,

familiar feeling.”

Daniels was delighted to return to comedy after spending the past three seasons starring in the Aaron Sorkin TV drama, “The Newsroom.”

“Comedy is a joy,” he said. “There’s a freedom to it. There’s a fearlessness to it that you don’t get in everything else. It was a thrill to do.”

New York (AP) - A filmmaker who sparked anger earlier this year with plans for a love triangle-themed movie about the Malaysian Airlines plane disappearance says he’s changing the plot to a thriller so he won’t offend the families of the missing.

Director Rupesh Paul unveiled a teaser trailer for “The Vanishing Act” at the Cannes Film Festival, based on the March disappearance of a Malaysian Airlines jet

with 239 people onboard; the plane, which was on a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing, has yet to be found.

The trailer included an image of a gun and two crew members kissing as a third looks on in anger. That sparked anger, leading Paul to apologize to the families of the missing MH370 passengers. Now, in a statement to The Associated Press, Paul said he’s shooting a new trailer and the movie will be a psychological thriller.

“We respect the sentiments of all those who experienced

loss due to the tragedy, and the intention was never to benefit out of it,” the Indian director said. “I am a filmmaker, and I would like to loosely base the film on one of the most baffling mysteries which has remained unanswered.”

The movie was to be out by fall, but assistant director Sritama Dutta said the change in the plotline led to a delay. Casting is expected to be completed by the end of this month with filming set in January. Filmmakers hope to show it at the Cannes festival next year.

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Give me five Until yesterday, I always thought that a quintet was either a group of five musicians, or a piece of music written for them. It seems that Quintet was also the name of a science fiction film made in 1979 and set during some future ice age. But by all accounts, the movie was rather heavy going. Confusingly, there’s also a movie called Quartet made in 2012, directed by Dustin Hoffman and set in a retirement home for former professional musicians.

In classical music, a quintet can be made up of any instruments you care to name, but in practice it comes down to a handful of tried-and-trusted combinations. During the last few decades there’s been a dramatic increase in the number of brass quintets and woodwind quintets but in contrast, the string quintet can be traced back to early years of

Franz Schubert as a young man. the seventeenth century. A string quintet is usually a standard quartet (two violins, a viola, and a cello) supplemented by a fifth instrument, which is nearly always an additional viola, cello or double bass. Despite the fact that Luigi Boccherini managed to write over a hundred quintets, the form has always been less

popular among composers.

Mozart for example, wrote a couple of dozen string quartets but only six string quintets.

While the piano trio and piano quartet were well-established in the eighteenth century, the piano quintet didn’t come into its own until the middle of the nineteenth. It can be traced back to the late classical period, when piano concertos were sometimes transcribed for piano with string quartet accompaniment. During the mid-nineteenth century, the instrumentation of the piano quintet settled down to piano and string quartet and has remained the same ever since.

Many earlier piano quintets, especially those before the 1820s were scored for piano, violin, viola, cello, and double bass. One of the best-loved works of this type owes its fame to a song about a fish.

Franz Schubert (1797-1828): Quintet in A major (“The Trout”). Juhani Lagerspetz (piano), Sini Simonen (vln), Steven Dann (vla), Franz Ortner (vc), Michael Seifried (db).

(Duration: 40:38; Video: 1080p HD) It seems odd to name a quintet after a fish, but as with most things, there’s an explanation. Schubert wrote this work in 1819 when he was twenty-two years old and the fourth movement is a set of variations on his song Die Forelle (“The Trout”) which he wrote a couple of years earlier. Schubert was perhaps best-known in Vienna as a song-writer and the song Die Forelle was

Film tells horrifying tale behind Louvre painting Thomas Adamson Paris (AP) - It’s one of the most viewed works in the Louvre, yet few visitors know the horrifying real-life story behind “The Raft of the Medusa.”

Theodore Gericault’s desolate depiction of survivors washed out on a raft in the West African sea is admired for its ground-breaking use of Romantic swirls and chiaroscuro. But the painting is also a hanging testament to the horrific deaths of 133 sailors who perished. The event was one of history’s most controversial naval tragedies, ending in shipwreck, political intrigue and cannibalism.

It all began in 1815 when King Louis XVIII sent a naval fleet, including the grand Medusa ship, to Senegal, to reclaim the land from the British. It was meant to be a trip of victory.

Visitors take photographs in front of The Raft of The Medusa oil painting, painted between 1818 and 1819 by French Romantic painter and lithographer Theodore Gericault, at the Louvre Museum in Paris.

(AP Photo/Francois Mori) But the dramatic scene that unfolded was steeped, instead, in death: a vessel running aground off the coast of today’s Mauritania, a bloody raft hurriedly constructed from the shipwreck,

and desperate survivors going mad and eating each other.

Among those who drifted for 13 days on a 140 squaremeter raft, only 15 survived to tell the harrowing tale.

Now, a French documentary is to explore for the first time the little-known story behind the masterpiece that’s been hanging in the Louvre for nearly two centuries.

“Along with the Mona Lisa, it’s one of the Louvre’s most visited masterpieces.

But do people know it’s more than a legend? It really happened, and we’re trying to shed light on why,” producer Anne Fredon told The Associated Press.

With the help of a psychiatrist as well as author Steven Callahan, who in 1982 survived for 76 days adrift on the Atlantic Ocean in a liferaft, the 90-minute film tries to answer why the survivors degenerated so quickly into savagery.

The film, “The Raft of the Medusa’s Real Story,” will be broadcast on Arte in France and Germany in early 2015.

something of a hit there. The quintet wasn’t published until a year after his death at the age of thirty-one. Schubert the song-writer is very much in evidence in this thoroughly joyful work.

The video is about as visually unexciting as they come. One camera, same shot. But the playing is so good that I hardly noticed because it’s not much different to the view you get sitting in a concert hall. Incidentally, you might be interested to seek out Schubert’s last chamber work, his String Quintet in C major which was completed two months before his death. It’s his only string quintet, and perhaps one of the greatest pieces of chamber music of all time.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791): Clarinet Quintet in A major, K581. Ruokai Chen (clt), Old City String Quartet (Duration 30:50; Video 720p HD) Mozart wrote two major works for clarinet which are still in the repertoire today, the concerto and the quintet. They were both written for Anton Stadler, one of the leading Viennese woodwind players of the day. Mozart completed the quintet in September 1789 and it was

first performed the following December. Incidentally, both works were written for the basset-clarinet which has an extended lower range.

In many ways, this is a brilliant work which draws on Mozart’s enormous skills in song-writing, drama and harmony. The Larghetto which forms the slow second movement is stunningly beautiful. But even so, the last movement has always struck me as a repetitive series of variations on a singularly banal tune. The lugubrious third variation with its tiresome viola solo sounds like a lapse of taste on Mozart’s part. I have the score in front of me and can’t help wondering whatever he was up to. But perhaps poor old Wolfgang had been on the bottle that day and was just a bit zonked.

The Old City String Quartet (now the Dover Quartet) is made up of young musicians from The Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia.

Clarinetist Ruokai Chen gives a lovely performance. He’s not yet in the class of clarinetists like Martin Fröst or the late Reginald Kell and Jack Brymer, but he’s exceptionally good. Oh yes, I’ve just discovered that there’s yet another movie called Quartet made in 1981 and set in Paris. It’s all becoming too confusing.

Handy hint: If you are interested in following these links, either use your Smartphone to read the QR codes or go to this article online, click on the “live” links and go direct to the videos.

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VOL. XXII No. 47

E-mail: socialscene@pattayamail.com

Popular TV hosts and a TV actress were at the Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya recently to tape a segment for their TV show. (l-r) Sarun Pornmaneesawan (Part), Mondop Heamtan (Bank), George Kenton (Executive Assistant Manager - Rooms), Nungira Hanwuthinanon (Gale), Tinnakon Puwasakdiwong (Tontae) and Akkara Mcshane (Alan).

Aussana Jantapa (left), GM of Classic Kameo Hotel, Rayong, and Pakamon Srimano (right), the hotel’s sales manager, welcome Busadee Santipitaks (center), Deputy Director-General at the Department of ASEAN Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs during her visit to the resort recently.

Brendan Daly (centre), GM of the Amari Pattaya, beams as he receives a certificate of appreciation from Lewis ‘Woody’ Underwood, Chairman, and Deborah Philbrook, Vice Chairperson of the Jesters Care For Kids as a token of gratitude for having assisted in organizing the most successful charity gala dinner at the hotel recently. Jesters Care for Kids Charity Drive was established in 1998 by the Jester’s Motorcycle Club to provide children in need with educational opportunities for a brighter future. They support children of all ages including disabled children.

(Right) In a unique effort to promote tourism the Central Festival Pattaya Beach recently launched the ‘Snoopy on Tour’ campaign whereby a variety of Snoopy Dolls were put on display at the multi-purpose area on Beach Road.

Amongst the VIPs helping to promote the event were Rattanachai Sutidechanai (centre), Vice President of Pattaya City Council, and Ornwara Kornpin, Director of TAT Pattaya.

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It’s has become widely known that we guarantee our guests get a party that they will never forget.

Later this year we will be hosting more birthday parties and on 1st December 2014 we will once again be hosts to the Pattaya Pride, Worlds Aids Day Fundraiser. This event has become a fixture in the local gay community’s calendar Jim Lumsden, the general manager of Baan Souy Resort, will host this event and help to raise much needed funds for the local HIV/Aids Groups in Pattaya.

So if your party event is small or large contact Baan Souy Resort and we can assure you we will always go that extra mile to make your party unforgettable.

For rates and event packages contact Jim Lumsden at info@baansouy.com or visit our website: www.baansouy.com

VOL. XXII No. 47

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PATTAYA MAIL

Marilyn Monroe’s lost love letters to be auctioned John Rogers Los Angeles (AP) - It’s no secret baseball legend Joe DiMaggio loved Marilyn Monroe. The famed New York Yankee cried at her funeral and for 20 years had flowers placed at her crypt several times a week.

The public displays were unusual for the famously stoic and private DiMaggio.

Now, his heartbreak over the breakup of one of the most sensational marriages in American history will get a rare public airing when “Marilyn Monroe’s Lost Archives” goes up for bid at Julien’s Auctions in Beverly Hills next month.

“I love you and want to be with you,” DiMaggio said in one pained letter to Monroe from the collection, written when she announced she was filing for divorce after a matter of months in 1954.

“There is nothing I would like better than to restore your confidence in me.”

The 300 items also include love letters from Monroe’s third and final husband, playwright Arthur Miller.

There’s also a handwritten letter from Monroe to Miller in which the woman who was arguably Hollywood’s

Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio are shown together in this June 2, 1955 file photo. (AP Photo) greatest sex symbol muses about her many insecurities.

DiMaggio wrote in his letter that he learned Monroe was leaving him when he saw her make the announcement on television.

“My heart split even wider seeing you cry in front of all these people,” he wrote in the letter addressed to “Mrs. Joe DiMaggio” and mailed special delivery.

Other letters in the collection come from such friends as actors Clark Gable, Cary Grant and Jane Russell, the latter imploring Monroe in 10 neatly handwritten pages

to give her marriage to DiMaggio another chance.

“It really gives you the chills when you read some of the stuff and see the intimacy and the personal nature of it,” said auction curator Martin Nolan, who spent nine months organizing and cataloging the collection.

Auction owner Darren Julien estimates the pieces could fetch $1 million or more, noting a watercolor Monroe painted and planned to give to President John Kennedy went for $80,000 at an estate auction nine years ago.

Monroe’s “collectability”

Tom Hanks has deal for short story collection New York (AP) - Talk about typecasting: Tom Hanks has a book deal for a collection of stories inspired in part by his personal collection of typewriters.

Publisher Alfred A. Knopf announced last week that it has an agreement with the Oscar-winning actor. The book is currently untitled and no publication date has been set.

In a statement released by Knopf, the 58-year-old Hanks said he had been collecting typewriters since 1978 and that his upcoming collection would feature stories “that might have been written on

Tom Hanks.

(Photo by Jonathan Short/Invision/AP) one of them.”

Hanks’ “Alan Bean Plus Four,” the story of four

friends who travel to the moon, was recently published in The New Yorker.

Berlin Wall story on escapes has book, movie deal New York (AP) - A book about attempted escapes under the Berlin Wall and the support of American television has been acquired

by Crown Publishers and optioned for a feature film.

Greg Mitchell, an author and contributor to the Huffington Post, has a deal with Crown

for “The Tunnels.” Set in the early 1960s, when the wall went up, the book focuses on attempts by West Germans to sneak loved ones out of East Germany. Sensing a dramatic story, NBC and CBS each tried to help the East Germans, while John F. Kennedy’s administration worried about

relations with the Soviet Union. Mitchell drew upon interviews and previously classified documents.

No publication date has been set. Film rights were purchased recently by FilmNation Entertainment, with Paul Greengrass expected to direct.

This photo shows a single-page handwritten letter that is presumed to have never been sent from actress Marilyn Monroe to writer Arthur Miller, currently on display at Julien’s Auctions in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) has skyrocketed in recent years, driven in part by deeppocketed Asian and European collectors with a fondness for American popculture artifacts, he said.

The fact that the centerpiece of this collection is not just celebrity tchotchkes but deeply personal artifacts is also expected to fuel interest.

“We anticipate a lot of fans will be here. They’ll fly in

from all over the world,” said Julien, who will put the items on display to the public at his Beverly Hills gallery for four days before they go on the block Dec. 5-6.

Monroe, who died of a drug overdose at age 36 in 1962, willed “The Lost Archives” to her mentor, the legendary acting coach Lee Strasberg. He gave it to a friend he trusted would take

proper care.

That friend’s family, which Julien said wants to remain anonymous, obviously met Strasberg’s expectations.

Many of the letters look as pristine as the day their authors wrote them.

“Please, if I’ve ever made you cry or made you sadder, even for a second, please forgive me, my perfect girl. I love you,” Miller wrote in a pencil-scribbled P.S. at the bottom of a typewritten letter.

In a reply to one of his missives, Monroe takes issue with what the author of “Death of a Salesman” had called her nobility in handling a difficult childhood followed by public adulation that nearly crushed her.

“In other words, there was no choice to make, the same road was always before me,” she wrote. “So for you to speak of my nobility, it really wasn’t so noble.”

She went on to say: “It’s doubly difficult to understand that you, the most different, most beautiful human being, chose me to love.”

The Killing Chase Hot on the heels of his first book The Killing Code, author Craig Hurren has come out with the sequel, The Killing Chase (ISBN 978-150240-967-6, 2014).

I reviewed The Killing Code and concluded, “This plot has everything, and only a very wild imagination could or would come up with it. For a first book, this is a stunner. The truth of this writer’s excellence will depend upon his being able to come up with another equally as baffling.”

And with those sentiments in my mind, The Killing Chase arrived on the reviewer’s table.

Looking to the future, after the commercial success of The Killing Code, Hurren has kept the same format and central characters (Beach and Riley) as before for this new book, and in fact, has already started on the third in the series, to be called The Killing Cohort.

Author Hurren has the ability to keep the pace moving along, with gruesome details tripping over each other, and scenes of horror reminiscent in places of the cult classic movie in 1932 based on Edgar Allan Poe’s short story “The Murders in the Rue Morgue” starring Bela Lugosi.

The Thai side of the story is given credibility with the references to actual places, and the description of Jomtien as being “areas of affluence and taste, interspersed with pockets of dereliction and failed dreams.

Uncompleted housing developments and failed condominiums bore silent witness to the Asian financial crisis of 1997.”

Author Hurren introduces some Australians to the reader, and far from being caricatures, he does make them realistic and easily

recognized against his American heroes.

That alone shows a skill with words that escapes many would-be writers.

Hurren runs two plots at the one time, with alternating chapters, but around half way through the book manages to join the two together in a very credible way to give the reader the Alan Beach and Jake Riley duo as the central characters.

The technology being described in the book is certainly way beyond me (who still has trouble with the remote control on the video player), and I am unsure as to whether he is describing current technology, or Sci-Fi. However it is feasible, with the advances being made in the electronic world.

DNA testing is featured in the plot, something we have all become accustomed to in Thailand recently.

Whilst this book would come under the general category of ‘thriller’, there is enough horror for it to also be given a horror rating.

As well as showing the American side of the CIA and other acronyms, the reader is also given the Russian side on espionage and plain old dirty dealing and the hierarchy of the Russian-style Mafia.

Human emotions are explained and laid open for the reader to assimilate, with one of the CIA’s wives being a psychologist, again giving credibility to the scene. These snippets assist the reader to become engrossed in the plot.

Once again, I have enjoyed Hurren’s work, and consider this second book to be marginally better than his first. The third book will attract even more readers to his work.

Price? Around B. 600.

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The avenger of the nerds Elvis Costello, My Aim Is True (Stiff) A debut album that no one saw coming.

It burst through the heavy thunder clouds of punk rock and delivered a glimmer of hope for a terrified and confused recording industry. Elvis Costello was definitely part of this new wave of music, he was angry and he was agressive, but he was still very much a singer songwriter of the old school, and he had a haircut they could relate to. They didn’t care much for his cheeky choice of a professional name though. “Elvis”, that was sacrilege. There was only one. Just a few weeks after the album was released it got even worse. Elvis Presley died and suddenly Stiff Records’ “Elvis is king”slogan backfired. Some were furious. How dare he!

Elvis’ debut LP does not sound as hot tempered and obstinate as the successor, “This Year’s Model”. The reason being that the young

Declan Patrick Aloysius MacManus (as his real name is) hadn’t fully developed his alter ego Elvis yet. He was an artist “in progress” with a steady job, wife and children when the album was recorded during four sixhour sessions in late 1976 and early 1977. These songs weren’t even meant for himself, but for Dave Edmunds.

At the time Costello was considered to be a promising songwriter, but since Edmunds only had shown lukewarm interest for the first few demos, the decision was made to record the songs properly. Costello didn’t have any band, so producer Nick Lowe hired the American country rock band Clover, who were based in England, for the sessions.

As the recordings proceeded and new songs were added, written late at night while his wife and children slept, Elvis’ ambitions changed.

Why would he give these

heartfelt songs to Dave Edmunds? He wanted them for himself. And thus they realised that they were actually recording a real album.

Two singles were released as teasers, the anti-fascist “Less Than Zero” and the embittered ballad “Alison” (with its controversial reference to a certain Mr. Oswald).

Embraced by the rock press, but they died in the record stores. That didn’t stop Stiff Records from giving Costello the full album treatment, releasing “My Aim Is True” in July 1977.

Angry times in the UK. The Sex Pistols had already stirred up the nation’s media with “God Save The Queen” and were at it again with the thundering “Pretty Vacant”. On the Top 10 The Stranglers were lurking about with the suggestive and highly sexist “Peaches”.

The new wave tsunami washed through the corridors of the record business.

Dave Dee and Bill Grundy, to name but two, were… stunned. And shocked.

“My Aim Is True” was perfectly timed. It sailed into the tabloid fuss, aggravating loads when Elvis Presley died in August, but still getting

away with it because these were real songs written by a guy who obviously mastered the art of songwriting.

But even though most tracks here sound like songs and not chaotic noise bombs, they do not offer much relief. The knock-kneed insect with his cartoon like Buddy Holly-glasses oozed attitude. The avenger of the nerds. The lyrics were an acid bath boiling in frustration, rebellion against conformity and hypocrisy, vindictive attacks on people that probably knew who they were.

His irony was deadly accurate, already a master of words he played around with the language, you could never be quite sure that he meant what he said or said what he meant, he slithered around in clever wordplays, sometimes so vicious that his horn rims crackled.

Clovers refrain from giving the songs the California or Nashville treatment. They are absolutely in synch with Costello’s intentions. No smooth cleverness, it is all raw, rough and stripped down. But they don’t explode in your face the way The Attractions would do a few months later on the

Robert Plant quashes Led Zeppelin reunion claims London (AP) - Robert Plant says there’s no truth to reports that he turned down a lucrative offer from Virgin boss Richard Branson to play Led Zeppelin reunion shows.

A statement from Plant spokesman Ken Weinstein says the singer “has not been in receipt of any offers in recent months” about Led Zeppelin gigs, and hasn’t met or communicated with Branson in 50 years.

The statement said Plant was “disappointed with any confusion this current fabricated story may bring.”

Citing a Led Zeppelin song, Branson said in a blog post he was “dazed and confused” by reports he had offered the band 500 million pounds ($800 million) to reform.

Led Zeppelin disbanded after drummer John Bonham died in 1980. Surviving members Plant, Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones last performed together in 2007.

Former Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant is shown in this June 5, 2014 file photo. (AP Photo /Abdeljalil Bounhar)

sequel, “This Year’s Model”.

Costello the guitar player prefers it rough and metallic, but you can sure hear that he is no upstart. There’s cleverness at play, a less is more. He shows restraint when it cooks, and he never for one second loses control even if he wants to give that impression on the fast and aggressive tracks.

Elvis’ voice is very distinctive, he sounds like a man battling a cold; his voice almost cracks when he stretches for the high notes. But technically his singing is mature and his phrasing superb. His love for Burt Bacharach is already very noticeable, especially in the mighty “Alison”. All the tracks are strong, but my personal favourites, apart from “Alison”, are: “Mystery Dance,” “Blame It On Cain”, “(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes,” “Less Than Zero” and “Waiting For The End Of The World”.

There are those who do not like Elvis Costello, indeed, some can’t even stand him.

I find that incomprehensible.

“My Aims Is True,” “This Year’s Model”, “Armed Forces” and “Get Happy !!” is one of the strongest four album sequels in rock history.

Released: July 22, 1977 (All songs written by Elvis Costello) Produced by: Nick Lowe Contents: Welcome to the Working Week/Miracle Man/No Dancing/Blame It on Cain/Alison/Sneaky Feelings/(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes/Less Than Zero/Mystery Dance/Pay It Back/I’m Not Angry/Waiting for the End of the World NB: The October 1977single “Watching The Detectives” was added to the American version of this album as it was released in December 1977. The Attractions are backing Elvis on that track.

Personnel: Elvis Costello – vocals, guitar, piano and drumsticks on “Mystery Dance” Nick Lowe – backing vocals, piano, drumsticks and bass on “Mystery Dance” John McFee – lead guitar, pedal steel guitar, backing vocals Sean Hopper – piano, organ, backing vocals Stan Shaw – organ on “Less Than Zero” Johnny Ciambotti – bass, backing vocals Mickey Shine – drums

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Tel. 038 411 240-1, 038 413 240-1 Fax. 038 411 833

E-Mail: mailmarket@pattayamail.com

Articles For Sale/Rent As616/47-48/ Slazenger Golf set AGAN: 4,900 baht, 300 golf balls 2,800 baht. Tel. 087 100 5726 As615/47-51/ Stubby Holders: can & bottle coolers, high quality, digitally printed, neoprene, competitive prices, cheap delivery. info@coola-products.com, www.coola-products.com As614/22-52/ Space Saving Wall-Beds and Custom made furniture, Kitchens and Condo refurbishment. www.wallbedfurnitureshop.asia.

Tel: 089-003 6894 As611/27-52/ For Fans of M.J.B. the Cartoonist to Pattaya Mail, you can now buy Mike Baird‘s two new E-Books called “Life in Fun City” and “More of Life in Fun City” from www. bangkokbooks.com at $4-99 each. Both E-Books are the Best of his Pattaya Mail cartoons over 13 years in beautiful full colour. You can carry them around with you, show them to your friends, store them on your computer or give them as a unique gift.

You never know - you might see yourself in them!

Articles/Services Wanted Aw01/26-52/ Missionary in Rayong sponsoring Little Duck Nursery needs help.

Please - Any unwanted items you have would be appreciated. (Eng) Rev Stephen 086 600 5682, (Thai) 038-621343

Boats & Fishing Trips Bo/45-17/ High quality Fishing & Boat trips on private boats! Silverton 42-foot yacht or Yamaha 26-foot: Fishing, snorkelling, swimming in clear waters off the white sandy beaches.

See more details: www. siamgreatadventures.com or facebook Siam Great Adventures Co.,Ltd. Booking contact siamgreatadventures @gmail.com, 087 137 6006 (Eng/Finn) or 087 137 0880 (Thai)

Business Opportunities Bop03/47-48/ Fitness Gym/ Equipment For Sale: Located 7km west of Laem Mae Phim on the beach road.

Equipment only, 490,000 baht (750k new): X-Trend and Xercore in superb condition. Buy the business: one year’s rent of 100,000 baht due Jan 31, 2015 (3-yr. lease available). Two-story bldg. has extra rooms for lessee or live-in staff; kitchen; space for a cafe in large reception area. Great small business opportunity. Email je_christie@hotmail.com for info.

Bop02/47-51/ For Sale – Rent – Partner: Benelux – Resort Buriram (Kandong) 15 rooms – swimming pool – restaurant – Villa. Info 081 999 2217 Bop01/44-48/ Associate Business Brokers Pattaya – 580,000 baht LARGE EARNING POTENTAL! Operate your own business in the field of selling businesses and properties. Includes full businesses model and company set-up with visa and work permit, training and materials. Interested parties will have to complete a standard confidentiality agreement. Contract: phill@ tsba.info www.tsba.info 087 034 0568

Pets Pets03/27-52/ Adorable homeless puppies available for adoption to warm and caring homes! All puppies are healthy, vaccinated and acclimated to people. If you are looking for a friend for life, just call 088 402 6772 or e-mail to karin@carefordogs.org.

Pets02/27-52/ **Free Cats and Kittens** We are still tryi n g t o f i n d l o v i n g homes for over 40 cats and kittens. Please check the pictures on our website or ring Sandra.

Call 085 287 5004 http:/ cats4youinpattaya.webs.com

Property for Rent Houses, Villas Prb12/46-51/ OCCASION! Beautiful townhouse (South Pattaya), 2 minutes to city or beach, peaceful and green environment, superbly fully furnished, 3 bedrooms, 2 televisions, ADSL, 4 air-conditioners, garage. Contact: 092 647 1521

Send your property related articles to

propertynews@pattayamail.com Fax: 038 427 596

Prb/47/ A 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom 2 storey House in Jomtien available for 28,000 Baht per month. Ref: HR1436.

Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net Prb/47/ A 2 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom 2storey House in East Pattaya available for 25,000 Baht per month. Ref: HR1985. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net, Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net

VOL. XXII No. 47

PATTAYA MAIL

Tel. 038 411 240-1, 038 413 240-1 Fax. 038 411 833

Prb/47/ A 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom single storey House in East Pattaya available for 35,000 Baht per month. Ref: HR2060. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net, Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net Prb/47/ A 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom single storey House in East Pattaya available for 21,000 Baht per month. Ref: HR1813. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net, Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net Prb/47/ A 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom single storeyHouse in East Pattaya available for 20,000 Baht per month. Ref: HR1733. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net, Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net Prb11/44-49/ Office space Office space Office space: Now available for rent. Great location in the Heart of Pattaya and Jomtien. ample parking in a garden setting. Already 60% full. Available spaces from 575sqm.to 16sqm. Tel. 081 805 3849. Gary Email: lou997@hotmail.com Prb10/44-48/ 2-storey house on a ½ rai, in Soi 14 off Naklua-Pattaya Road, big balcony, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, maid’s room, covered parking for 3 cars, needs some work: 20,000 baht/ month (yearly contract).

Phone: 086 063 5848 Prb09/44-48/CORNERTOWNHOUSE, Off Soi Khaotalo, Like new, quiet, safe, two bedroom, one bathroom, patio, carport, Thai kitchen, air-conditioned, FULLY FURNISHED, 10,000 Baht/ Monthly, English 087 805 5276

Condos, Apartments Prc/47/ 80sqm, 1 Bedroom Condominium in established development located in Pratumnak available for just 20,000 Baht per month .Ref CR1613. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net, Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net Prc/47/ 79.5sqm, 1 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Condominium in established Central Pattaya development available for just 19,500 Baht per month. Ref CR1225. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net, Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014 35 E-Mail: mailmarket@pattayamail.com

Prc/47/ 46sqm, 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Condominium in this popular Central Pattaya development available for just 20,000 Baht per month.

Ref CR2649 Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@pattaya-property. net, Check our website www. pattaya-property.net Prc/47/ 46sqm 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Condominium in established development located in the city center available for just 18,000 Baht per month. Ref CR2461 Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or e-mail info@pattaya-property .net, Check our website www. pattaya-property.net Prc/47/ 44sqm, 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Condominium in this recently completed development located in Jomtien for just 24,000 Baht per month.

Ref: CR2800. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@pattaya-property. net Check our website www. pattaya-property.net Prc/47/ 48sqm, Studio Condominium in established development located in Wong Amat available for 15,000 Baht per month. Ref: CR2663.

Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net Prc/47/ 52sqm, 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Condominium in abrand new development located on soi 1, Beach Road, North Pattaya available for 25,000 Baht per month. Ref: CR2969. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net, Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net Prc12/47-49/ Pattaya Beach Road Soi 13: Studio 9,800 baht/month, Penthouse studio 12,000 baht/month, pool.

Tel. 081 835 0967 Prc11/47-51/ 51sqm, Porchland 2, Jomtien, 1 bedroom, 8th floor, new, sea view, free internet, TV, swimming pool, Gym, big balcony: 15,000 baht/month. Tel. 087 138 3523 Prc10/44-48/ Apartment for Rent: 2 minutes walking distance to Jomtien beach, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, fully furnished, separate kitchen, free WIFI, 500 baht/day utility included, 2 persons allowed in the room maximum, one month lease, for pictures email juanitareed@ hotmail.com or for appointment call 081 653 1950 and 083 578 6664

Prc08/41-50/ VIP Condo (Ban Amphur), studio for rent, 40sqm, flat screen TV, free Wifi, newly renovated, large swimming pool, tennis courts, good gym, on the beach, 1 month 15,000 baht/ month, 1 year 13,000 baht/ month. Tel 086 069 4399 and 083 687 1900 Prc07/40-03/ Furnished Studio For Rent: A/C, Hot Water, Cable, Swimming Pool 4,500 baht per month Nernplaubwon Soi 53 at Mapyaillia Soi 45, Tel 085 276 8457 (Eng). 089 931 4170 (Thai).

Prc02/34-48/ Condo 32sqm for rent: located near Big C Extra, Foodland, fully furnished, balcony, air-con, big swimming pool: 6,500 baht/ month (ADSL-connection available) Call 082 973 9440/ 082 862 7964 Eng/Ger (after 1 p.m.)

Prc01/38-47/ Royal Park Luxury Service Apartments and penthouse suite, Jomtien, 56-70 sqm, one bedroom, large living area with balcony and European kitchen.

Free internet. Enjoy our rooftop swimming pool. Short walk to the beach. Monthly and daily rentals, starting 17,000 bath/month. Contact 086 111 7414 or check on our website www.royalparkjomtien.com to see why we are number 1 in Jomtien.

Send your property related articles to

propertynews@pattayamail.com

Property for Sale Houses, Villas Psb/47/ A substantial 3 Bedroom, 4 Bathroom Detached family House in East Pattaya on offer for 6,950,000 Baht.

Located in a well established village with all the facilities a family could ask for. Ref: HS3704. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net Psb/47/ A 4 Bedroom 4 Bathroom house with private pool in Naklua for only 11,100,000 Bath. A perfect family house in a fantastic location. Ref HS4115. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-9962489 or email info@pattayaproperty.net, Check our website www.pattaya-property.net Psb/47/ A 3 Bedroom 2 Bathroom house with communal pool in East Pattaya.

An ideal family home or rental investment for 3,400,000 Baht. Ref HS3866.

Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net, Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net

Psb/47/ A 3 Bed, 4 Bath House in East Pattaya, located in an exclusive, secure village close to Mabprachan lake. On offer for just 5,000,000 Baht. Ref: HS3850. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@pattaya-property. net, Check our website www. pattaya-property.net Psb01/43-05/ Rayong Banphe - near Mae Ramphung beach, new houses and villas for sale, 2-4 bedroom, private pool/land, partly furnished: Price 2.7 - 8.5M.baht.

Tel (Thai) 081 863 6063, (Eng) 086 158 5667

Psb/47/ A Brand New 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom House located just off the Highway 7 in East Pattaya on offer for 2,890,000 Baht.

The owner is offering a finance scheme of 6-9 months. Ref: HS3711. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-9962489 or email info@ p a t t a y a - p r o p e r t y. n e t , Check our website www. pattaya-property.net Psb03/45-49/ Stunning 5bed, 7-bath villa, near beach: 25 MB. www.facebook.com/ beachvillabangsaray, Tel: 092 472 5743

36 FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014

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Tel. 038 411 240-1, 038 413 240-1 Fax. 038 411 833

VOL. XXII No. 47 E-Mail: mailmarket@pattayamail.com

Psb/47/ A 5 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom House in Soi Nernplubwarn in East Pattaya on offer for only 3,850,000 Baht.

A large, fully furnished house for a very low price!

Ref: HS3851. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@pattaya-property. net, Check our website www. pattaya-property.net Psb02/45-49/ The Willows exclusive villas from 7.8 MB: www.willowbangsaray .com/ Tel: 092 472 5743

Condos, Apartments Psc/47/ A 58 sqm 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom Condominium right in the heat of the city.These unit make excellent rental investment in one of the most popular projects in Pattaya.

Priced at only 3,400,000 be quick not miss out. CS4431.

Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net, Check our website www. pattayaproperty.net Psc06/47/ Selling condo in heart of city - Spanish Condo 36sqm: 750,000 baht (by owner), Tel. 061 329 6695 and 092 330 6281

Psc/47/ A 46.5sqm 1 Bedroom High Floor Condominium in the recently completed Nova Cliff development in Pratumnak, on offer for only 3,422,400 Baht. Stunning Sea, Koh Larn and Panoramic Views. Ref: CS4563.

Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net, Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net Psc/47/ A 24.2sqm Studio Condominium in Central Pattaya on offer for 1,325,000 Baht. Be the first to own this property, 80% payment now and 20% in March 2014. Ref: CS4475. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@ pattaya-property.net, Check our website www.pattayaproperty.net Psc/47/ A 75sqm Brand New Fully Furnished 1 Bedroom Condominium in Pratumnak, 5,990,000 Baht. A spacious condo ready to be lived in, enjoy the modern style, large balcony and pool view.

Ref: CS4586. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@pattaya-property. net, Check our website www.pattaya-property.net

Psc/47/ A 25sqm 1 Bedroom Condominium in South Pattaya, 1,199,999 Baht! Due for completion in Q3 2016 this property offers exceptional investment value. Facilities include large pool and shopping centre. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@pattaya-property. net, Check our website www. pattaya-property.net Psc/47/ A 117sqm, 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom, Sea View Condominium with large balcony for 14,300,000 Baht.

This popular, well established development in Pattaya offers an unrivalled common area and is located on Beach Road. Ref: CS2984. Contact Alan Bolton Property Consultants on 081-996-2489 or email info@pattaya-property. net Check our website www. pattaya-property.net Psc05/47-48/ 3 room, 2 bath apartment in Jomtien, 76sqm, EVT, with long term tenant: 1,990,000 baht. Tel. 087 100 5726 Psc04/47-51/ 38sqm Porchland 2, 1 bedroom, 8th floor, 2 years old, quality furniture, panoramic sea and Jomtien views, swimming pool, Gym, WIFI, 24/7 security, foreign name, owner sale: 1,750,000 baht. Tel. 087 138 3523

Psc03/47-51/ Condo 42sqm + balcony, Pratumnak Hill (200m to beach) swimming pool – fitness – security – conveniences: Price 1.3 million. Contact 080 772 7717 Psc02/43-47/ The Avenue, 1 bedroom, 8th floor, views, F/F, 2 TV’s etc, built in wardrobe, 45sqm: THB 2,750,000 (great rental).Tel. 083 911 3965 Psc01/43-50/ For Sale: 74sqm, 3-room condo, 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, balcony, swimming pool, First floor Majestic Condominium Jomtien, fully furnished, Farang name, Price 2,300,000 baht. Urgent Tel 087 485 3770 and 082 474 3154, email: josger8586@gmail.com

Services Provided Sp14/44-48/ Service construction: Tiling, painting, electricity, water pipe, ceiling, art wall etc. Call 087 783 4015 or 087 136 7036 Sp18/47/ Plans drawn: house – condo – shops. Tel: 085 083 4221.

Sp17/47-51/ Freelance Video Editor: I can edit your videos or teach you how to edit them. Also build you a custom PC Digital Edit Suite.

Call 089 776 2565

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Tel. 038 411 240-1, 038 413 240-1 Fax. 038 411 833

Sp16/47-51/ Thai Massage, Thai-oil massage services, will visit you 24 hours. English speaking, call 083 745 6557 Sp06/26-52/ Connex Asia Co. specializes in providing general contracting, renovation works, construction management and design/ build services to a wide range of market segments. With over 15 years experience in the Pattaya marketplace, our team of construction professionals is dedicated to providing our clients with quality workmanship in a timely manner. In short: we are dedicated to service! Call Winnie 038 422986 or 081 802 1467, wpsvo@chonburi.ksc.co.th Sp04/26-52/ Magna Carta Law Office can assist you in securing loans from a minimum 700,000 up to a maximum of 50 Million Baht through various financial institutions with no credit checks or black marks and

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014 37 E-Mail: mailmarket@pattayamail.com

no penalty for a bad credit history. All loans are secured against either land or property and we are able to lend you up to 50% of the appraised valuation of your asset. The funds will be available around 10 days from the start of the application. Loans can be for a period of 6 months to 1 year and can be extended for longer if needed. Call either 038-373735 or 081-9833-620 for an appointment.

Sp02/26-52/ Swimming Pools: Connex Asia has a long history of providing our clientele with quality swimming pool construction, premium equipment, and unsurpassed customer service. We have the knowledge with years of experience to fit your needs, your desires, and your specifications. All our pools are absolutely chlorine and salt free. Call Winnie 038 422 986 or 081 802 1467, wpsvo@chonburi.ksc.co.th

Sp01/26-52/ Magna Carta Law Office in South Pattaya offers One-Stop Quality Legal Services. Criminal, Civil, Family & Labor Law Consultancy, Full Accounting Service, Company Set-up, Visa and Work Permit, Notary Service, Real Estate Transactions, Last Will & Testament. You can visit our website www.magnacarta .co.th for the complete list of services. Call us at 038 373 735 to 6 or email us at legal@magnacarta.co.th to set an appointment for a FREE NO OBLIGATION INITIAL CONSULTATION Sp11/08-52/ WWW. 321CLEAN .COM – General home cleaning: Dynamic team and foreigner follow-up. Call now on 089 886 5445 (English), 080 091 2924 (Thai) or leave a message on our web site.

Vehicles for Rent Vr/39-01/ Low season prices all through high season 100% insurance. New Honda City. Tel: Nat 084 738 8812 Holiday Car Rent Vr28/43-47/ Jay’s Rent A Car: Toyota’s & Honda’s. All top of the range, for your safety all serviced by Toyota/ Honda, all have A.B.S./ airbags + 1st class, rental Insurance, Rent the best, Please ring for details: (Thai) 084 865 5102 or (Eng) 085 283 4915.

Vr27/47/ Fortuner 3ltr from 1000 baht per day, full insurance, also Toyota and Isuzu pickups only 550 baht per day, 2 left, well maintained nice cars, long term discounts available, just ask! Call 089 932 7965 - you ring we bring!

Vehicles for Sale Vs02/47-48/ Kawasaki KLX 150 D-Tracker/Enduro 2012: 8,300km, 49,500 baht.

Tel. 086 004 8072 Vs01/46-50/ HondaAccord 2.0: 2012.Automatic, black 10,500km: Price 950,000 baht, Norwegian owner Tel. 092 643 6595

Staff Wanted Sw01/45-02/ Driver wanted for mini-van. Call: 081 146 1811

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VOL. XXII No. 47

New Volvo V60 off-roader

Abu Dhabi GP this weekend The Abu Dhabi Yas Marina grand prix circuit hosts the GP this weekend. Abu Dhabi is the most oil-rich in the region and the 5.55 kilometer Yas Marina Circuit has been built using the motorists’ money, extracted at the petrol pumps. Roll on electric power! It was also one of the most boring race tracks in living history and has been universally christened ‘Yawn’ Marina.

Located on Yas Island, the PR blurb said the track was set to revolutionize the design of future Formula One circuits. Boasting top speeds of 320 km/h and average speeds of 198 km/h, it features nine right turns and 11 left turns and is one of the few venues on the calendar to run in an anti-clockwise direction.

It was designed by circuit architect Hermann Tilke (so need I say more?), and Yas Marina has a waterfront setting scenic enough to rival the likes of Monaco and Valencia, complete with a hotel that even changes color, but was just as boring as that former pair of venues.

All of the grandstands, including the massive hairpin seating area, are covered to protect spectators from the desert sun, whilst the stateof-the-art pit building boasts 40 garages.

As well as the waterside marina area, there are high-speed sections, tight

New Volvo V60 off-roader. in the Swedish brand’s range including the V60 Cross Country D4 and D3.

Getting the power down to the road is optimized with ‘torque vectoring’ and ‘corner traction control’ for both front-drive and four-wheel drive versions.

The V60 Cross Country range comes with either 18 inch or 19 inch wheels with highprofile tyres to improve ride quality and offer better rim-protection on rougher surfaces.

Front and rear skid-plates, side scuffplates and bumper extensions visually set the Cross Country apart from its more roadbound sibling, and increase durability when on changeable surfaces.

A two-wheeled nutter?

Abu Dhabi corners for overtaking, and even a twisty street circuitstyle sector. However, none of this prevents Yas (Yawn) Marina from being boring if the F1 cars cannot pass each other.

In an effort to boost the Abu Dhabi GP, our Bernie, the patron saint of dwarfs, dreamed up the concept of double points for this meeting, a system universally disliked, with even Bernie admitting it wasn’t such a bright idea!

The World Driver’s Championship is down to the Mercedes drivers Hamilton (Britain’s white hope) and Rosberg (dual nationality Finnish and German).

Hamilton is ahead on points, but Rosberg can win with the double points, provided Hamilton does not do well.

If Rosberg finishes: 1st, he needs Hamilton to

finish 3rd or worse 2nd, he needs Hamilton to finish 6th or worse 3rd, he needs Hamilton to finish 7th or worse 4th, he needs Hamilton to finish 9th or worse 5th, he needs Hamilton to finish 10th or worse 6th, Hamilton is world champion regardless of where he finishes The race will start at 8 p.m. our time Sunday (also 8 p.m. Saturday for Qualifying), and I will be getting to Jameson’s Irish Pub around 7 p.m. for a bite to eat (Sunday roast is great value) and a glass or two. Come and join us for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix which we watch on the big screen with streaming from the dedicated F1 channel, with no adverts after the race starts.

Jameson’s Irish Pub is on Soi AR, next to Nova Park serviced apartments.

NCAP suggests India puts safety last, not first The Indian made Datsun Go has failed its NCAP testing, making it more of a NoGo than anything else.

The global independent New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) organization has turned up the heat on two more international automakers by giving devastating zero-star safety ratings for two “new” car models in India where one person dies on the road on average every four minutes.

In one of the crash tests, the structure of the Nissanmade Datsun Go collapsed so badly that NCAP engineers concluded airbags would have been pointless, even if they had been fitted.

The steel itself is very doubtful, so it may have used recycled soft drink cans?

Bharat (an alternative name for India) NCAP is a collaboration between the Indian government and Institute of Road Traffic Education, and like similar organizations in eight other key markets aims to give consumers a guide to vehicle safety and not be

A boost to ride-height and some tougher touches will give owners of the diesel-only V60 Cross Country the confidence to go further, says Volvo.

Volvo has added a second trail-focused Cross Country model to its ranks with a ride heightboosted version of its mid-sized V60 wagon joining the fleet alongside smaller V40 Cross Country.

The V60 Cross Country made its debut at the Los Angeles motor show late November, revealing its ride-height to be 65 mm higher, higher profile tyres and chunky body modifications.

Volvo says the alterations give the latest V60 variant a new level of versatility with “unparalleled control on and off the beaten track” for owners wanting “rugged capability”.

Europe will get three diesel-only versions of the V60 Cross Country starting with a front-wheel-drive D3 four-cylinder, a midrange front-drive four-cylinder D4, while topof-the-range four-wheel-drive versions get a five-cylinder engine.

This might be a last hurrah for the five-pot engine in V60, as Volvo’s Drive-E four-cylinder engine eventually will power all models

Have you heard of Francois Gissy? No? Well, he has just done 333 km/h on a rocket propelled push bike.

The bike, designed by Gissy’s friend, Arnold Neracher, reached its top speed of 333 km/h in just 4.8 seconds and 250 meters.

“In the moment, it is scary, but as soon as you stop, you also realize how amazing that was,” Gissy said of the experience in an interview with the technology website Gizmag.

But he said the wind is extremely powerful when travelling above 300 km/h. “I’m lucky my head is still bolted on the body!”

“Blown” bicycle!

Gissy sits just above the rocket, which has three thrusters and is fastened to the frame. (Exotic Thermo Engineering/Swiss Rocketman.)

This was not his first time; Gissy’s previous speed record on a similar bike in 2013 was 263 km/h.

Exotic Thermo Engineering’s

other inventions include a rocket-powered go-kart, a rocket car, and a jetpack called a “rocket belt.” (The latter must get the sphincter well and truly puckered!)

According to Guinness World Records, the fastest speed ever for a bicycle that wasn’t rocket powered was 268.831 km/h by Fred Rompelberg of the Netherlands, riding behind a windshield fitted dragster in 1995 and assisted by the slipstream of the car.

The current unassisted bicycle speed record is 133.8 km/h - a record that a team in Toronto is trying to break.

Automotive Focus Group spreads the latest news South Korean steel maker POSCO has started construction on an automotive steel sheet plant in Thailand which is expected to be completed by 2016.

The plant will be producing galvanized steel sheet for automotive applications and the plant will have a production capacity of 450,000 tons per year.

The company said that Thailand is developing into

the biggest automotive production base in Southeast Asia with production capacity increased to 3.2 million vehicles.

Posco found it difficult to export automotive steel sheets to Thailand which triggered its move to build the factory at the Amata City Industrial Complex in Bangkok.

The facility will produce GI (Galvanized Steel) and GA

(Galva-annealed Steel) that will be supplied to local automakers and automotive suppliers.

Posco-TCS CEO Han Kwang-heum said, “We will ensure the stably supply of quality automotive steel sheet and expand our close partnership with local automakers in a bid to take the initiative in the Southeast Asian automotive steel sheet market.”

Forget Retro cars - it’s Retro bikes

It’ll polish out! afraid to publicize the results, poor or otherwise.

So far, zero scores have been handed out by Global NCAP to seven Indian-made cars, bringing in to question the commitment of many automakers to car safety in developing countries.

An NCAP photograph of the 64 km/h frontal offset crash test - a standard NCAP test around the globe - of the 2014 Datsun Go was particularly telling, revealing a massive buckle in the roof and body deformation almost to the rear hatch.

The front wheel was pushed back into the driver’s side cabin space, and the

dummy’s head impacted the steering wheel.

In India, the Go is the latest model from the born-again Datsun brand - Nissan’ s lowcost supplier of cars in Third World markets.

Bharat NCAP is the 10th NCAP to be formed around the world, and with India now the fifth largest producer of passenger cars, “This new consumer program will no doubt have a direct effect on improving vehicle safety standards across India,” ANCAP Chairman Lauchlan McIntosh said.

From zero stars, anything will be an improvement!

Royal Enfield’s revamped Continental GT still has the old-school charm, with some new-school tech.

Try the Royal Enfield Continental GT - a real headturner with its authentic café racer looks and bold red paint job.

According to Royal Enfield the Continental GT is its lightest and fastest model yet. While still paying homage to its roots from the early 1960s, this 535cc single cylinder café racer will be a nostalgia fest for the original Rockers and I’m one.

For retro riding, the seat is

Royal Enfield. accommodating and despite the low-set bars, the riding position doesn’t feel as racy as it looks due to the clip-on style bars mounted on top of the triple clamp rather than below, giving you a slightly more upright riding position.

You have the option of an electric start - or if you like authenticity, you can have a stab at the kick starter, but

not to be recommended, if you haven’t tried one before.

It needs some revs to get off the line cleanly, and minor vibrations occur in the upper rev range, which is what the tester expected from this type of engine, but he complained he was looking for 6th, as the engine could easily pull it.

Fitted with Pirelli Sport Demon rubber, twin gas-charged Paioli rear suspension, some decent Brembo brakes and a newly-designed chassis, you’ll soon realize how good a package this modern-classic Continental GT is.

of this car was the 7 liter Ford Shelby Cobra. I asked what was that original car? It was the Tojeiro Bristol.

So to this week. Advertised as being for “the few who own the finest” these cars

had owners such as Sir Stirling Moss, Fred Astaire and Picasso. What was it?

For the Automania free beer this week, be the first correct answer to email viacars@gmail.com.

Autotrivia Quiz Last week I mentioned that the AC Ace did not start its production life as an AC, but as something else, which was purchased by AC and its Bristol engine removed.

Of course, the ultimate form

VOL. XXII No. 47

Darkside Tuesday Darts League

Crumpton Oaks Cider Monday Pool League

Standings Nov. 11 (week 11)

Standings Nov. 3 (week 12) Team Legends Links Bar Rest Stop Nicky’s Bar Sweethearts Bar Shoot Pool Dean’s Bar Cheers Bar Offshore Bar Classroom Wok’n’Rok Two Dogs Mates Bar

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014 39

PATTAYA MAIL

P 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12

W 10 9 9 9 9 6 6 6 5 4 4 1 0

L 2 3 3 3 3 6 6 6 7 8 8 11 12

+/31 29 29 21 17 3 -5 -9 -7 -14 -26 -50 -19

BP 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 2 1 2 1 1 0

Pts. 30 28 27 27 27 20 20 20 16 14 13 4 0

Tuesday Darts League Results & Standings Nov. 11 (week 19) Team P W L F A B/legs Pts. Londoner 19 18 1 170 56 14 36 Buffalo Jack’s 19 13 6 125 77 12 26 Legends 19 13 6 114 76 9 26 The Swan 19 12 7 111 68 17 24 Yates’ Bar 19 12 7 99 78 13 24 Naughty Kangaroo 19 12 6 102 88 13 24 Crazy Eddie’s 19 11 8 108 87 20 22 Nervous Wreck 19 10 9 104 99 8 20 Shoot Pool 19 8 11 86 97 10 16 i-Rovers 19 7 12 95 103 9 14 Scandalic 19 7 12 80 119 7 14 Bye 19 5 12 36 89 5 10 W. Tankies 19 3 16 54 121 4 6 Bye 19 0 18 0 126 0 0 Results: Bye (0-0)-(7-1) v Shoot Pool, Crazy Eddie’s (7-1)-(0-0) v Bye, Naughty Kangaroo (9-1)-(4-0) v Legends, Nervous Wreck (9-1)-(4-0) v i-Rovers, Scandalic (6-1)-(6-0) v Londoner, The Swan (10-1)-(3-0) v W. Tankies, Yates’ Bar (3-0)-(7-1) v Buffalo Jack’s

Pattaya 8-Ball Pool League Results & Standings Nov. 10 (week 12) Team Played Won Lost For Agst Diff Points Phimai Geordie 12 12 0 135 40 95 36 SmileBar 12 11 1 125 55 70 34 Funny Girl 12 6 6 92 83 9 24 Asian Nomads 12 6 6 83 97 -14 24 Crazy Eddie’s 12 6 6 80 100 -20 24 San Snack Bar 10 6 4 86 64 22 22 Pom Bar 11 5 6 74 91 -17 21 Ta Bar 11 4 7 79 86 -7 19 Doggy Style 12 3 9 69 111 -42 18 Parrot Inn 11 3 8 54 101 -47 15 Connections 11 1 10 58 107 -49 13 Results: Ta Bar 8 v 7 Crazy Eddie’s, Asian Nomads 4 v 11 Phimai Geordie, San Snack Bar 8 v 7 Funny Girl, Smile Bar 10 v 5 Doggy Style

Friday Darts League Results & Standings Nov. 14 (week 2) Team P W L F A B/L Pts. Londoner 2 2 0 18 8 2 4 Naughty Kangaroo 2 2 0 12 7 2 4 The Clinic 2 2 0 11 9 1 4 W. Tankies 2 2 0 10 7 1 4 Nervous Wreck 2 1 1 12 9 1 2 Yates’ Bar 2 1 1 12 13 0 2 Buffalo Jack’s 2 0 2 5 11 1 0 Cheers Bar 2 0 2 5 10 1 0 Palmer’s Bar 2 0 2 8 10 1 0 i-Rovers 2 0 2 7 16 0 0 Results: Cheers Bar (3-0)-(7-1) v Naughty Kangaroo, Londoner (9-1)-(1-0) v i-Rovers, Nervous Wreck (5-0)-(7-1) v W. Tankies, Palmer’s Bar (4-1)-(5-0) v Yates’ Bar, The Clinic (4-0)-(3-1) v Buffalo Jack’s

Team Chill Bar PJ Pub Oscars Bar Load Out Double Dutch Moonies

P 11 10 11 11 10 11

W 9 8 7 6 2 0

L 2 2 4 5 8 11

F 72 52 62 59 26 17

A 27 38 37 40 64 82

T/G 9 7 7 3 2 3

Pts. 18 16 14 12 4 0

Results: Chill Bar (9-1)(0-0) v Moonies, Double Dutch (3-0)-(6-1) v PJ Pub and Restaurant, Oscars Bar (5-1)-(4-0) v Load Out

King Factory Friday Night Pool League Results & Standings Nov. 14 (week 4) Team The Butchers Arms Shoot Pool The Rest Stop Legends Pool Sweethearts Bar Links Bar Pook’s Bar

P 4 4 4 3 4 3 4

W 3 3 3 2 2 1 1

L 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

D 1 1 1 1 2 2 3

+/12 6 4 12 -12 -10 -12

Pts 9 9 9 6 6 3 3

Results: Links Bar P-P Legends Pool, Pook’s Bar 8-12 The Rest Stop, Shoot Pool H-W Bye, Sweethearts Bar 713The Butchers Arms

Asia Back Packer’s Monday Darts Super League Standings Nov. 3 (week 18) Team Legends Load Out Buffalo Jack’s W. Tankies Bye i-Rovers ‘A’ Bye Don’t Tell MaMa’s i-Rovers ‘B’ Bye

P 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18

W 15 14 14 12 8 8 8 5 3 1

L 3 4 4 6 9 10 8 13 15 16

F 98 105 102 97 67 66 62 63 37 30

A 60 49 52 57 78 80 62 82 116 91

B/L 14 11 12 12 9 11 8 4 4 3

Pts. 30 28 28 24 16 16 16 10 6 2

Wednesday Darts League Results & Standings Nov. 12 (week 10) Team P Buffalo Jack’s 10 i-Rovers ‘A’ 10 Oscar’s Sports Bar 10 W. Tankies 10 Bye 10 Moonies 8 Yates’ Bar 9 The Clinic 9 i-Rovers ‘B’ 10 Bye 10

W 9 7 7 6 4 4 3 3 3 2

L 1 3 3 4 6 4 6 6 7 8

For Against 68 22 63 27 62 28 54 36 41 49 30 42 37 44 33 48 29 61 15 75

Pts. 18 14 14 12 8 8 6 6 6 4

Results: Bye (0-0)-(91) v i-Rovers ‘A’, Moonies (9-1)-(0-0) v Bye, The Clinic (5-0)(4-1) v Buffalo Jack’s, W. Tankies (8-1)-(1-0) v Yates’ Bar, i-Rovers ‘B’ (0-0)-(9-1) v Oscar’s Sports Bar

Links Bar Wednesday 9-Ball Pool League Results & Standings Nov. 5 (week 21) Team Legends Pool Links Bar Pook’s Bar George & Dragon Mates Bar Crazy Eddie’s Classroom FCUK Inn The Ranch Connections Queen Vic

P 18 20 19 18 20 20 20 19 19 20 19

W 14 12 11 10 10 8 7 5 6 4 4

D 1 2 2 3 2 4 3 6 3 3 1

L 3 6 6 5 8 8 10 8 10 13 14

+/82 62 24 36 -8 10 -26 -24 -34 -50 -72

Pts. 43 38 35 33 32 28 24 21 21 15 13

40 FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Pedersen marches on PSC Golf from the Café Kronborg Monday, Nov. 10, Bangpakong – Stableford A Flight (0-21) 1st Arne Max Pedersen (16) 37pts 2nd Lotte Boskov (18) 35pts 3rd Henry Wong (15) 34pts 4th Brian Gabe (16) 34pts B Flight (22+) 1st Torben Rasbol (23) 36pts 2nd Richard Snellin (23) 34pts 3rd Daryl Evans (22) 34pts 4th Dave Richardson (27) 33pts Long Putts: #9 Leif Kirkgaard, #18 Andre van Dyk Near Pins: #4 Karl Beter, #13 & 16 Henry Wong The glorious Bangpakong Riverside course was the destination today, up Route 7 for 1 hour and 15 minutes and after a swift check-in we were off the first tee on time

Stephen Cooper Reade and Peter Bygballe with Dave Richardson.

his winning ways, taking top spot in the A flight with 37 points. His partner Lotte Boskov was second with 35 and Henry Wong took third on a count back from Brian Gabe fourth and Leif Kirkgaard, all with 34 points.

Torben Rasbol took the B flight honours with 36 points, two ahead of Richard Snellin and Daryl Evans who had to be separated by count back, and Dave Richardson completed the podium on another count back over Graham Buckingham, both with 33 points.

Thursday, Nov. 13, under sunny skies and with a round of 4 hours and 40 Khao Kheow a nice breeze. minutes welcomes went out Stableford The course was in fine shape with quick greens and back in the clubhouse after

to Kurt Sandgaard and Richard Snellin.

Arne Max Pedersen continued

A Flight (0-22) 1st Peter Bygballe (18) 30pts 2nd Ernst Hansen (22) 29pts

3rd Dave Addison (13) 29pts 4th Arne Max Pedersen (16) 29pts B Flight (23+) 1st Stephen Cooper Reade (26) 34pts 2nd Dave Richardson (27) 34pts 3 rd Richard Snellin (23) 32pts 4th Karl Beter (29) 32pts Long Putts: A9 Dave Richardson, C9 Dave Addison Near Pins: A5 Dave Addison, C3 Ernst Hansen, C8 Peter Bygeballe, 7 Daryl Evans The Pete Dye design Khao Kheow was the game today and once again the fine weather turned out for us.

The course was also in good condition with some quick greens.

The round was completed

in about 4 hours and 30 minutes and back in the clubhouse welcomes went out to Otti Schmid, Stephen Cooper Reade, Ernst Hansen Githie, Ole Mortensen and Lila Goardasdottr.

Two flights today with the cut set at handicap 22 but the course was the winner with the best score in the top division being a lowly 30 points by Peter Bygballe.

Ernst Hansen came in second on a count back from Dave Addison third and Arne Max Pedersen fourth, all on 29 points.

Stephen Cooper Reade edged out Dave Richardson in the B flight on a count back after both finished with 34 points each. Richard Snellin and Karl Beter completed the podium.

Expect more from Tim Shaw PSC Golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society Sunday, Nov. 9, Green Valley Monthly Medal A Flight 1st Adam Barton (12) net 68 2nd Barry Copestake (12) net 71 3rd Dave Stockman (7) net72 B Flight 1st Vic Hester (15) net 69 2nd Freddy Starbeck (13) net 76 3rd Colin Davis (18) net 77 C Flight 1st Tim Shaw (31) net 66 2nd Peter Henshaw (21) net 69 3rd Kim Crijns (24) net 72 Near Pins: No 4 Dave Stockman, No 9 Bob Watson, No 12 Pat Harney, No 16 Chaten Patel Englishman Tim Shaw, who lives in Australia, started out a fine week with the biggest prize of the month - the cut glass whiskey goblet and a bottle of Jameson’s Irish whiskey emblematic of the Monthly Medal. Tim also gets an invite for the gold medal at the end of the year and gets his name etched onto the Lewiinski’s wall of shame.

Tim’s net 66 was three clear of C Flight mate Peter ‘the silver surfer’ Henshaw as Tim’s better half Kim filled the flight on net 72.

The senior flight was again led by Adam ‘Dick’ Barton with a rock solid net 68. Barry ‘the boot’ Copestake followed Adam up the podium steps with a steady net 71 as Dave Stockman rounded

out the flight with an even par return.

B Flight was the domain of Vic ‘the infector’ Hester with a solid net 69. Best mates Freddy ‘the quite one’ Starbeck and Colin ‘the donkey’ Davis took second and third places with non-threatening net 76 and net 77s respectively.

Adam Barton, JJ Harney and Freddy Starbeck shared a very healthy 2’s pot.

Thierry Temime, no stranger to the pay desk, filled the top spot in B Flight with a solid even par round. Pat Adland, a friend of the Donkey, showed he was learning from the master as he took the silver with 34 points.

No 2’s were recorded so it is a rollover on Thursday.

Monday, Nov. 10, Royal Lakeside Stableford

A Flight 1st Petteri Aittola (9) 42pts 2nd Matt Cronin (15) 37pts 3rd John Pierrel (13) 35pts 4th Thierry Petrement (12) 35pts B Flight 1st Jim Elphick (25) 41pts 2nd Tim Shaw (31) 37pts 3rd Jim Proctor (18) 37pts 4 th Eddie Henshaw (26) 35pts Hardly a more daunting venue could have been chosen for the society than the Dye designed Khao Kheow.

Petteri Aittola, playing off his nine handicap, bettered Wednesday’s second place finish as he showed he was up to the challenge by garnering a magnificent 42 points and first place in A Flight. Ireland’s Matt Cronin filled the second spot with a very creditable 37 points.

Thierry Petrement shot a steady 37 points but was relegated to fourth place on a count back by the on form John Pierrel.

The story in B Flight was the ever-improving Jimmy ‘two shots’ Elphick and his excellent 41 points. Jim was four clear of the title boy Tim Shaw and Jim Proctor, and the resulting count back handed Tim the silver to go with his two gold finishes. Eddie Henshaw tided up the flight with a steady 35 points.

1st John Pierrel (13) 44pts 2nd Thierry Petrement (12) 39pts 3rd Matt Doyle (14) 37pts John Pierrel was man of the match and top in A Flight as he put in his best competitive effort in some time to lap the field with an excellent 44 points!

Always improving Thierry Petrement made his solid 39 points stand up for the second spot. It was good to see Matt Doyle climbing the podium steps as he returned to form, not that anyone doubted he would even though his count back win was over gang mate Andy Byrne.

John Pierrel was the sole heir to the 2’s pot.

Tuesday, Nov. 11, Burapha Stableford A Flight 1st Reg McKay (13) 40pts

Thursday, Nov. 13, Khao Kheow Stableford

Colin Davis (left) congratulates Sunday’s Medal winner Tim Shaw.

2nd Peter Larson (13) 39pts 3 rd Freddy Starbeck (13) 38pts B Flight 1st William Peach (17) 37pts 2nd Aiden Murray (18) 36pts 3rd Mike Jefferys (17) 36pts C Flight 1st Tim Shaw (31) 40pts 2nd Jim Elphick (25) 34pts 3rd Lou Szigligeti (22) 34pts There was a large turnout for today’s competition which required the formation of three divisions. The first of these was led by Scotland’s Reg ‘Buckie boy’ McKay with a co-man of the match 40 points and he was one of two players to reach that total on the day. Reg was one clear of A Flight mate Peter Larson with his splendid 39 points and a further stroke clear of Freddy Starbeck on 38.

B Flight was headed by Sir William Peach with a very creditable 37 points. William edged Aiden Murray and Mike ‘the Welsh dragon’ Jeffreys who both finished on even par rounds, with the latter falling to the bronze spot on the resulting count back over the back-nine holes.

The man in the bold print, Tim Shaw, made it two wins in as many comps as he headed the minor flight with a co-man of the match 40 points. Tim was six clear of Jimmy ‘two shots’ Elphick and Aussie Lou ‘walkabout’ Zig zag; Jim nicked the silver while Lou was sorting out his handicap.

Max Scott, Richard Snellen and Trevor Gough shared the 2’s pot.

Wednesday, Nov. 12, Bangpra Stableford A Flight 1st Bill McGarvie (11) 41pts 2nd Petteri Aittola (9) 38pts B Flight 1 st Thierry Temime (23) 36pts 2nd Pat Adland (24) 34pts The size of the field might have been impacted by our back-to-back playing days but the quality of the play was certainly not affected.

Bill McGarvie stole the show and top spot in A Flight with a sizzling 41 points and was three clear of second placed Petteri Aittola.

Petteri Aittola, Such Janatana, Jim Proctor and Geoffrey Williams shared the 2’ pot.

Friday, Nov. 14, Mt. Shadow - Stableford A Flight 1st Matt Doyle (14) 41pts 2nd JJ Harney (10) 36pts 3rd JP Gasser (12) 33pts B Flight 1st Gerry Cooney (18) 40pts 2nd Lou Szigligeti (21) 38pts 3rd Colin Davis (18) 37pts C Flight 1st Martin Allard (25) 40pts 2nd Don Lehmer (22) 38pts 3rd Jim Reid (26) 34pts Ireland’s Matt Doyle, everybody’s nice guy, dazzled most of the field and A Flight with a man of the match 41 points; the only two guys close to him were B Flight winner Gerry Cooney and C Flight top man Martin Allard who were but a stroke adrift. JJ Harney followed Matt up the podium steps with a steady even par round while JP Gasser was pleased to close the flight with his 33 points.

Aussie Lou ‘walkabout’ Zig zag chased Gerry home in B Flight with a solid 38 points as he edged the Donkey by a single stroke.

Don ‘the ladies man’ Lehmer lifted the C Flight silver with a sound 38 point return and Jim ‘I’m getting better’ Reid was pleased to close the flight with his 33.

Andy Byrne, Bill Stewart, Per Forsberg and Martin Allard shared the 23’s pot.

Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya Land Soi 1, Beach Road Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in and add your name to the list or call Colin on 089 826 0764.

Transport is provided.

VOL. XXII No. 47

Friday DFiT, Dusit Thani Pattaya: Visitors using the group fitness membership can avail of the THB 2,000 offer for five visits to the gym after their membership has expired. The offer includes unlimited use of DFiT facilities including tennis courts. For more information, call 038-425611 ext. DFiT. 1:00 p.m. The Pattaya Bridge Club meets upstairs at Altos Restaurant, 144/99 Thappraya Road near flyover. Contact Jeremy Watson 085 818 2172, www.pattayabridge.org.

2:00 p.m. Pattaya Sports Club Bowling at PS Bowl on the top floor of Tops Supermarket at the junction of Central and Second Roads. Contact La at PS after 1:30 p.m.

Saturday Pattaya Archery Club meets between 10am and 12 midday every Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at our dedicated shooting range within easy reach of Pattaya, near the new railway road. Beginners of all ages are welcome, and equipment and coaching are free. For more information call Eric, the club President , on 089 535 1193 or visit www.pattayaarcheryclub.com Ocean Marina Yacht Club invites experienced sailors and learners for racing weekends and funsail/training weekends.

The club has 5 star clubhouse facilities and a fleet of 25' racing yachts available. www.omycsailing.com, phone Kev Scott 087 825 0011.

8:00 a.m. Diving with Mermaid’s Dive School. Contact Mermaid’s Dive Center, tel. 038 232 219 - 20, email: mermaids@loxinfo.co.th 8:00 a.m. - noon & 2 - 6 p.m. (Sat & Sun - Also Monday to Friday) Horseback riding at the Horseshoe Point Riding Academy, the biggest equestrian center in South-East Asia. Show jumping, hacking, trail, dressage and classical dressage. Training courses from beginners to advanced riders with English speaking instructors. Leisure trail riding, group and private classes. All levels of riders welcome. Over 100 horses and ponies available. Located on 1,500 acres of beautiful tropical garden land just outside Pattaya. Free shuttle service available.

For more information: phone (+66) 3873 - 5050 (ext. 4016-18), fax (+66) 3873 - 4973 or email: ridingschool@thehorseshoepoint.com 8:30 am. -10:00 am. International Players Academy meets every Sat. morning for Jr. Intermediate level Tennis at Ambassador City Tennis Courts. Visitors are welcome, just bring your tennis racket, ages range from 10-16. For more details call CJ on 086 086 2121

DATE:

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014 41

PATTAYA MAIL

Fri 21

Sat 22

Indoor Lawn Bowls Free at Coco Club every Saturday for school or college aged children from 11.00am - 2.00pm, with Male – English and Female Thai tutors. Parents can sit at the bar and watch.

New champions needed! Call Sue on 087 135 8357 or pop in to the club at Baan Amphur - signposted behind Phoenix Golf.

3.00 pm - Pattaya Cricket Club practice nets at Horseshoe Point next to Siam Country Club. All ages and abilities welcome. Please contact Simon at pattayacricketclub@gmail.com

Sunday Badminton players are invited to play 3 mornings a week at X-zyte Sports Club on Third Road. We play 10-12am Sunday, Tuesday and Friday with a mix of mostly 50+ farangs and younger Thai’s.

The Amazing Sunday Golfers are a friendly group of average index who welcome new players. Each Sunday they have friendly games on different courses with a meeting point at the course.

Contact Philippe at 082 546 0770 or email 2012tasg@gmail.com to be updated each week for the upcoming game.

8:00 a.m. Diving with Mermaid’s Dive School. Contact Mermaid’s Dive Center, tel. 038 232 219 - 20, email: mermaids@loxinfo.co.th 12:00 p.m. Pattaya Sports Club Softball plays slow pitch recreational pick-ups games at every Sunday at 12 noon.

New players always welcome regardless of skill level, experience, age or time away from the game. For more information and directions see the softball page at the Pattaya Sports Club website www.pattayasports.org or contact John at scrabbleking@yahoo.com or call 089-932-5433 2:00 p.m. The Pattaya Backgammon League (PBL) meets every Sunday at B.G. House & Restaurant @ 2 p.m. For further details phone 081 664 9085 or email tournament@pattayabackgammonleague.com 3:00 p.m. Pattaya Jungle H3 meets every 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month and departure is from the Lek Hotel on 2nd Rd at 3pm. For more info please call Kai on 01 863 5095.

The Haven

Billabong Golf Pattaya Golf Soc. Travellers Rest

Sun 23

Mon 24

Tue 25

Wed 26

Plutaluang

The Emerald

Eastern Star

TBA Green Valley

Green Valley

TBA

Mt. Shadow St.

Green Valley St.

The Emerald

Pleasant Valley Burapha

St. Andrews

Bangpra

Pattavia

Khao Kheow St.

Mt. Shadow St.

Greenwood St.

Khao Kheow St.

Burapha

Mt. Shadow

Green Valley

Plutaluang Scr.

Bangpra M.

Crystal Bay St.

The Emerald

Pattavia St. TBA

Eastern Star St.

The Golf Club

Pattaya C.C.

Bangpakong

Mt. Shadow

Donovan’s Golf

Khao Kheow

Green Valley

Mt. Shadow

Green Valley St. Pattaya C.C.

TBA The Emerald

Greenwood St.

Plutaluang St.

Eastern Star St.

Green Valley

Khao Kheow

Pattana

Siam Country Rst .

Khao Yai

Pleaant Valley

Crystal Bay

Green Valley St.

Green Valley St.

Rancho Charnvee

Sir James

Growling Swan

Plutaluang Pattavia

Greenwood

Plutaluang

Tara Court

Beaver Bar

Khao Kheow M. Greenwood

Crystal Bay Mt. Shadow

Green Valley

Greenwood St. The Emerald

Jomtien Golf

Witherspoons

Fri 28

Greenwood

Bangpra

Burapha

Khao Kheow St.

Pattaya C.C.

Le Katai

Thu 27

TBA

Tropical Golf

Sugar Shack

1:00 p.m. The Pattaya Bridge Club meets upstairs at Altos Restaurant, 144/99 Thappraya Road near flyover. Contact Jeremy Watson 085 818 2172, www.pattayabridge.org.

3.00 pm - Pattaya Cricket Club practice nets at Horseshoe Point next to Siam Country Club. All ages and abilities welcome. Please contact Simon at pattayacricketclub@gmail.com.

4.00 pm – Club Petanque Thailand plays Wednesdays and Saturdays from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. The court is open for groups every day. New and bigger surface. Very good drainage as well as better lighting. No membership fee. Find us at Soi Nernplabwan 100/2 Moo7, next to Sutawas Temple and small Banglamung Police station. Contact: 085 280 7182, fax 038 248 067, email: petanque.Th@gmail.com (English, French, German, Scandinavian); (Thai & Chinese: 080 618 2831.)

7:00 p.m. Pattaya Panthers and Panties (mixed) Touch Rugby every Thursday night at Horseshoe Point next to Siam Country Club. New players are always welcome - we are a very sociable team! Please contact Paul Crouch on 089 902 6286 or pjcrouch@hotmail.com

Kronborg

The Links

Wednesday

Thursday

I-Rovers

Lewiinski’s

Chess and Scrabble Club: every Tuesday 12pm - 5pm at Hoek-Van-Holland in Jomtien. Take Thappraya Road to intersection with Beach Road. Dong Tan Police sub-station is right there. Walk back towards Pattaya 10 meters along walking path. Hoek-Van-Holland is on the right, before the parking lot. Bring your own chess set and/or scrabble board.

For more information please see website www.hoek-vanholland.com - Everyone welcome.

The Pattaya Chess Club meets every Tuesday evening from 6:30 p.m. onwards at Brauhaus on 2nd Road between Soi 7 and Soi 8. Learners and anybody who would like to play chess are most welcome. Boards and clocks are provided.

Pattaya Ladies Netball Club: 7.30 pm every Tuesday at Fairtex Sports Club. All ages and abilities are welcome. 100 baht per person. Please email pattayanetballclub@gmail.com to confirm or find us on Facebook – ‘Pattaya Ladies Tuesday Night Netball’

1:00 p.m. The Pattaya Bridge Club meets upstairs at Altos Restaurant, 144/99 Thappraya Road near flyover. Contact Jeremy Watson 085 818 2172, www.pattayabridge.org.

3.15 p.m. Pattaya Hash House Harriers: The club for drinking people with a running problem meets every Monday at 3:15 p.m.

RichmanPoorman Outback Golf Bar

Tuesday

Monday

Blue Moose Golf Bunker Boys

in Pattaya Third Road, in front of the Buffalo Bar close to soi Lengkee, and just down the road from the Boxing Roo. We depart at 3:30 p.m. sharp. More info at: www.pattayah3.com.

Pattavia

Mt. Shadow

Green Valley St. Plutaluang The Emerald

Pleasant Valley

Plutaluang

Khao Kheow St. Pleasant Valley

Wangjuntr

Pattavia The Emerald

Transportation leaves from Cafe Kronborg on Soi Diana Inn at 8:15 a.m. on Mondays and Thursdays (call Dave 083 602 2117). Blue Moose golf plays on various days of the week, call Gay Wilanan 0811441054 for details. The Bunker meet at The Ranch on Pattaya 3rd Road. Please contact Buff on 086 046 5091 or 080 605 5663. The Haven departs from Soi Thirteen (Soi Pattaya 13) at 8:30 a.m. on its scheduled days (contact Stephen at 038- 710-988/9). The Pattaya Golf Society departs from the Elephant Bar on Soi Buakhao on its scheduled days (contact Len Jones 081 949 1468). Lewiinski’s departs from Soi Pattayaland One (Soi Pattaya 13/3) at 9:00 a.m. on its scheduled days of Sunday, Monday, Tuesday/Wednesday and Friday. Tropical Golf meet at The BJ Holiday Lodge on Pattya Soi 3, Beach Road at 8 a.m. on Tuesday’s and Friday’s for breakfast before leaving via minibus to the course (contact Derek on 089 034 0629 ).

Travellers Rest play Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday - please contact Fergus Brennan on 086 056 7019. The Outback Golf Bar is situated 6km from Sukhumvit Rd. along Siam Country Club Road. Telephone Jack on 081 578 1956. Donovan’s Golf Society plays at Green Valley Golf Club on Saturdays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call Steve at 081 996-3026 for details. Jomtien Golf meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Siam Cats, Soi 5 Jomtien Beach Rd. at 8:30am for 10am Tee-off. Contact Glyn on 086 837 5464 for details. The Siam Country Group (Mabprachan) play golf every Tuesday & Thursday. Call Jeff on 089 094 1841. The Growling Swan (formerley The Bunker Bar in Soi Chaiyapoon) generally plays on Mondays & Thursdays. Please contact Peter on 086 150 3086 or email to petergrey@y7mail.com. The Billabong Golf Bar located at Mabprachan Lake play golf every Monday, Wednesday & Friday. Contact Bob Philp on 082 204 3411. The Tara Court Golf Group play every Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday. Call Joe on 089 249 1364 for details. Witherspoons Golf Group, Soi Buakhao, Contact Paul on 092 374 4276. The Beaver Bar & Grill in Ban Chang plays at Emerald Golf Course every Friday with first Tee at 8 a.m. All are welcome. Contact Larry on 087 147 8986. The Players Lounge - call Bob on 080 096 8232.

42 FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXII No. 47

Player pulls out the stops at Emerald PSC Golf from The Billabong Golf Bar Monday, Nov. 10, Pattaya C.C. Stableford We played Pattaya Country Club on Monday and weren’t expecting fairways and greens like Siam Old Course. We didn’t get them either but to be fair it wasn’t all bad; the greens on the back were rather slow and very sandy but we all played the same course.

With 6 groups playing it got a little slow on the back-nine due to a group holding us up. As it was Pottsy’s field he did the presentation with two divisions, 0-16 and 17 plus. There was a tie for first place in the top flight with both Cottee and Woolly having 37 points. In the second division the winner was John Player with 36 points.

Wednesday, Nov. 12, Green Valley Stableford It does make for a hard day at the office when you get to bed at 6 a.m. and still have to be on the golf course for

Owen Walkley, Thip (with daughter) and Craig Wheeler. a 9.30 start, but that’s what four intrepid Aussie boys did today. They didn’t look too flash but they did get in 18 holes and one of them actually got a ‘2’.

The course was in great condition and now that the rain has gone it has dried out and the greens and fairways

played just fantastic. With 8 groups playing we were all on the course by about 10 o’clock for a very hot round of golf, extremely muggy but no rain.

There were some good scores with a couple of count backs to separate the minor places and a clear winner in Thip with a fine 39

John Player & Steve Compton.

points. Second place went to Craig Wheeler with 38 points, beating Owen Walkley on a count back, and in fourth was Wayne Cotterell with 36, once again on a count back over Tom Byrne.

There were five ‘2’s coming from Bob Philp, Murray Hart, Owen Walkley, Mark

Prytz and Mike Quill.

Friday, Nov. 14, The Emerald - Stableford The Emerald was in great condition with fast and true greens and a little run on the fairways. There was no rain and the temperature was just great for a day of golf.

With five groups playing we got away to an early start, thank goodness as there were people everywhere all waiting to play. We welcomed back Don Walding and his good mate Dean Hart, over from Perth for an extended holiday.

The scores were average apart from John Player (we think he played from the red tees) as he won the day by a massive 7 points, scoring 41 points with 23 on the front nine. His playing partners Sel and Cottee only got 23 points for the entire game!

Second place went to John Locke with 34 points, third to Craig Wheeler with 33 and fourth was taken by Owen Walkley with 32.

There were no ‘2’s so everything went to the place getters.

Note: The Billabong is situated just off Siam Country Club Road looking straight down Lake Mabprachan.

Give Bob a call on 082 204 3411 if you are looking for a game.

Managing caddies To those new to golf in Thailand, and certain others, be assured much of your enjoyment will depend upon how you get on with your caddie. Hopefully these tips make your golfing day, and theirs, that little bit better.

As is the case with all articles posted in this blog, it is assumed golfers have a basic understanding of scoring, club selection – knowing how far they hit the ball through the air – and the Rules. · On emerging from the clubhouse and meeting up with your golf bag and caddie, greet her (or him) with, “Sawadee khrup,” or “Ka” if you’re female. Also, inform her of your teeing order – group number. This tells her which other caddies she will be sharing the day with, thus allowing her the chance to organise things better – they share food etc.

· A happy caddie can have a profound influence on your day. Showing respect is a good start. Use “khrup” often and always.

It’s an easy word to say. It means thank you, but in Thai it implies a lot more. It says you are respectful and also gives your caddie some face amongst her peers. Attach it on the end of a “yes” or “no” answer, or on to a request for a club, “Lek ha, khrup,” or “five iron, khrup.”

Doesn’t take much, but you will make her day far more enjoyable than those forced to suffer from the ignorance and disrespect shown by many Farang. She will also be better company as a result. · When arriving at a drink stop, you can offer them a drink, but as they have access to liquid refreshment most would prefer the money instead. Personally, I make a one-off offer at the first

Caddies – whether they can make or break your day is largely up to you. drink stop by giving 50 baht, saying, “up to you.” This is not deducted from the tip paid at the end of the round. · Most Thais are modest and naturally shy. Ever noticed a Thai appear to laugh or snigger when something unfortunate befalls an individual? Maybe an incident where someone falls over and hurts themselves? They are “laughing” because they are embarrassed for the victim.

They feel for the victim’s situation, and are empathising.

Remember this the next time something bad befalls you or your golf, and your caddie appears to laugh. · Distance: When asked for a distance involving a

hazard, caddies will err on the side of caution, making your succeeding shot that much harder. Beware, some will also factor in an allowance for wind when giving estimated yardage. · Important words caddies use: “Sai” means left.

“Qua” – sounds like kwa – means right. “Khung” means up while “lohm” – sounds like loom – is down. “Mak mak” means a great deal.

Beware when caddies say lohm or khung as they are most likely referring to something that has a huge impact on putting, something many Farang can’t see – grain. · Provisional ball: Caddies do not like to be the bearer

of bad news. If there is any chance your badly-directed golf ball has not gone OB or into a hazard, their optimism will show, or they may say, “Ha sip, ha sip” (fifty, fifty).

Add this to the language factor and you have the potential for frustration – as you trudge back to the tee.

If at all in doubt, hit a provisional ball. · Relief: Your caddie is keen to ensure you receive every advantage possible, irrespective of the Rules of Golf or your Local Rules, neither of which she/he will likely know much about. Do not rely on their interpretation of what qualifies as relief. Especially so when they say, “Free drop.” · Never do or say anything that could cause your caddie to lose face in front of her peers. Nothing you could do would leave her feeling worse about herself, and you. Remember, she is there to carry your bag and give advice. Whether you take that advice on-board is entirely up to you. The outcome is also your responsibility. No caddie ever made a poor club selection or played a bad shot, only golfers can do that. · Caddie Rules infringement: Oftentimes during the

course of a round, caddies infringe the Rules of Golf.

Actions such as touching the line of putt, replacing the ball in a different place, picking up a ball thinking the next putt was a “given”, taking advice from another caddie and numerous other Rules violations are commonplace. Most thinking golf societies allow for this and have an appropriate local rule to cover such eventualities. Remember, we are here playing golf for fun, not to win a Green Jacket.

Sometimes you will experience a caddie whose indifference suggests she would rather be elsewhere. We all have our bad days. Just let it be and get on with your golf knowing next time it will be different. Know this; having a caddie you don’t get on with is really not that important. Don’t be one of those self-important peacocks who, on not getting on with their caddie, demands the caddie master organise another. Such action could cost that caddie her job, and with it her family’s livelihood. Is your game of golf that important?

Are you good enough to get that angry?

Happy golfing, Golfnutter

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Burns has a scorcher PSC Golf Bunker Boys @ The Ranch Monday, Nov. 10, Pattavia – Stableford It seemed like high season had suddenly arrived as 22 golfers turned up at The Ranch, meaning that we would have two divisions for the first time since mid-April.

There had been no rain for the previous two days and the sun was shining brightly this morning, so hopefully we can also look forward to the end of the rainy season.

There was no question of needing to use winter rules today as the fairways were in excellent condition, but one of my playing partners was heard to comment that they’re starting to look a little dry and could probably do with a quick downpour!

The greens were considerably faster than when we last played here a few weeks ago, and the severe slopes on several of the holes quickly caught out the unsuspecting players.

Recently arrived veteran Tony Scambler took the honours in the “A” Fight with 39 points, three points clear of Mike Johns and Keith Hemmings who had to be separated on a count back. The star performance of the day however, came from amiable Aussie golfer Les Burns, who chalked up his second overall win of the year so far with a great score of 40 points, also taking the honours in the “B” Flight in the process. Tore Eliassen,

who had won the Poppy Day tournament the previous Friday, continued his newly found good form scoring 38 points to take second place ahead of Mike Corner, with Keith Hemmings being the unlucky player to miss out, losing on a count back.

A Flight 1st Tony Scambler (10) 39pts 2nd Mike Johns (17) 36pts 3rd Keith Hemmings (17) 36pts B Flight 1st Les Burns (31) 40pts 2nd Tore Eliassen (20) 38pts 3rd Mike Corner (19) 33pts Near Pins: Keith Hemmings, Keith Norman, Geoff Williams and Peter Allen.

Wednesday, Nov. 12, Bangphra – Stableford It was certainly confirmed that the high season had arrived today as thirty players turned up at The Ranch for our Stableford competition at the monkey course. It’s always this time of the year when we start welcoming back the annual visitors for their winter golf season, and we set off down the 7 motorway in good spirits.

Once again the sun was shining brightly and although the car park was busy, there was no delay and we teed off on schedule from the 10th tee. It was soon evident that the mowers had been unable to reach the rough for several days, and certain areas were truly penal as

Eddie Kelly (right) with brother Peter. several players found out to their cost.

It’s usually the tricky greens which sort out the men from the boys here, but today it was more a question of who could stay out of the rough, and it was regular visitor Eddy Kelly who emerged victorious on the day, and he was also the only player to play to his handicap.

The cut was set at 16.9 and Geoff Parker won the “A” Flight on a count back ahead of John Graham, both with a modest score of 32 points.

Gordon Melia continued his run of steady form to take second place in the “B” Flight with 35 points, but the majority of the players returned scores that they would rather forget.

We don’t have a wooden spoon award, but one regular player (hcp.19) returned a horrendous score of 13 points, but we’ll withhold his name to save his embarrassment (he

probably spent most of the round in the rough).

Surprisingly it was a day when your scribe didn’t see a single monkey on the course, but our group did have close encounters with four sizeable monitor lizards, all part of an enjoyable day’s golf on one of the most attractive (and challenging) courses in the area.

A Flight 1st Geoff Parker (15) 32pts 2nd John Graham (11) 32pts 3rd Geoff Cox (14) 30pts B Flight 1st Eddie Kelly (20) 36pts 2nd Gordon Melia (17) 35pts 3rd Steve Durey (20) 32pts Near Pins: Keith Hemmings, Keith Norman, Geoff Williams and Peter Allen.

Friday, Nov. 14, Mt. Shadow – Stableford Another good turnout today for our competition at Mountain Shadow and

Jim’s mates show the way PSC Golf from Siam Country Resort Tuesday, Nov. 11, Greenwood Stableford Greenwood was the chosen venue for Tuesday’s game, with the A & B combination from the whites, at just under 6500 yards, our test of the day. The course was in overall good condition, which combined with clear skies made for a good day for golf.

Regular SCR player Jim Federspiel had some friends over from the U.S. and they came along and gave us a bit of schooling. Left hander Mike, playing off 9, led the way with 38 points while Steve (H/cap 7) picked up second spot with 34 points. Jim followed closely behind with 33, so it was a good day for the good ol’ boys. Mike also picked up a near pin prize, along with Jeff & Willem.

Thursday, Nov. 13, Treasure Hill Stableford Thursday saw us make a return trip to Treasure Hill,

Steve, Jim & Mike on B9 at Greenwood. where we played from the yellow tees at a little under 6400 yards. The fairways were in very good condition,

although some of the greens were suffering a tad after too much recent rain. Hopefully they will come good, as the

course is a good test, and is reasonably priced over the high season.

Willem Lasonder (18) was pretty much in a class of his own, score wise, with a handy 35 points, while Jeff Wylie (8) had a paltry 27, for second place. With a small field today, we had no near pins, although Sam should get a mention for a nice birdie 2 on #6, while he could easily have had a double, just missing on #13.

Note: Siam Country Resort, Restaurant & Bar is located just off Siam Country Club Rd, after going under the arch past the 7/11, turn right after 50 metres, with the venue on the left another 200 metres along. Golf from here is generally played on Tuesday & Thursday, with the Resort hosting prompt presentations on both days. As a PSC affiliated venue we welcome ALL golfers, including ladies & seniors (>60s) who have opted for the “Silver” tee option. Call 089 094 1841 for scheduling or enquiries.

when we arrived at the course it appeared to be busy, but we were still able to tee off on schedule. We were following another local society, but the pace of play was reasonable and the round progressed smoothly.

Playing from the blue tees this course is still shorter than most other local courses that we play, but the greens are always tricky, and it always presents a stern test. The condition of the fairways and greens was good and a marked improvement over many that we have played over the past several (wet) weeks.

As is normally the case here the lower handicappers produced the best scores with Mike Johns taking first place in the A flight, beating Geoff Parker on a count back, with Thomas Nyborg taking the third spot. Gordon Melia continued his good run of form to win the honours in the B flight, one point clear of Eddie Kelly, who was playing his final game before returning to Ireland for a winter break. Ken Davidson took third place in

only his second game back, and is obviously gearing up for next week’s Memorial tournament in which he was narrowly beaten into second place last year.

A Flight 1st Mike Johns (17) 39pts 2nd Geoff Parker (15) 39pts 3 rd Thomas Nyborg (17) 37pts B Flight 1st Gordon Melia (17) 34pts 2nd Eddie Kelly (20) 33pts 3rd Ken Davidson (21) 32pts Near Pins: Gordon Melia, Les Burns, Mike Corner and Mike Johns.

Note: The PSC affiliated Bunker Boys play out of The Ranch bar on Pattaya 3rd Road (in front of the fire station, and almost opposite the Buffalo Bar). We play on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, so if you enjoy a fun day out, and a friendly but competitive golf competition why not come and join us. We meet at The Ranch at 9 a.m. for breakfast and transportation, and new players are always welcome. Contact “Buff” on 086 046 5091 or 080 605 5663 or check website: www.bunkersociety.com.

9th John Preddy & The Memorial Golf Tournament Monday 24th November 2014 : Emerald G.C. The John Preddy memorial golf tournament has been held for the last 8 years, but this year we are expanding the event to remember those local golfing friends who have passed away recently. A new Memorial Trophy has been purchased which will be inscribed with the names of those departed friends and will be held in the bar of the winning team for one year. The team event is intended to be an inter-society tournament including as many golf societies as possible.

Format : Individual Stableford competition in Four-balls Team Event (Best 3 individual Stableford scores per hole) Teams from all bars and golf societies welcome Entry : Entry Fee 2,200 Baht per player.

All players with valid handicaps welcome.

Entry Fee includes: * Green Fee + Caddy Fee. * Free Memorial Tournament golf shirt. * Technical Prizes on every hole (2 Flights) * Lucky draw * Free Buffet at Lewinski’s. * Trophies for Individual Champion, 2nd and 3rd * Memorial Trophy (plus 4 individual trophies) for winning team Tee times will be allocated on payment of the Entry Fee at: (i) The Ranch Bar, Pattaya 3rd Road, contact “Buff” Tel. 086 0465091. (ii) Rabbi’s Elephant Bar, Soi Buakhow, contact Len Jones. Tel 081 9491468. (iii) Lewinski’s Bar, Soi Pattayaland 1, contact Jim Elphick.

Tel 084 913 9318.

Supported by PSC: All proceeds to local children’s charities

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Tewin tears it up at Khao Kheow Travellers Rest Golf Group Div 1 (0-14) 1st Alex Chow (13) 38pts 2 nd Andrew Purdie (10) 37pts 3rd Mike Rushant (10) 35pts Div 2 (15+) 1st Geoff Beckett (28) 36pts 2nd Demon Wong (20) 35pts 3rd Suresh Mehta (17) 34pts

Andy Rich This week was the second five day week at the TRGG where golf is organized at five different venues on five different days. Is it proving successful? Oh yes it certainly is, after the first week’s teething problems over 150 golfers (some played on more than one day) turned up this past week and that takes some organizing let me tell you. Family illness kept me out of the loop this week but I am assuming things passed off without a hitch.

Of course the increased numbers meant that a number of the regulars had to take a back seat when it came to handing out the prizes although there was no doubt who took pride of place. It would appear that the little people are taking over; the previous week Mike Rushant, who is actually a member of the Hobbits, dominated. This week it was Tewin Poopay Lamthong, who is knee high to a grasshopper, and her 45 points at Khao Kheow caught the eye.

Now to save turning this report into War and Peace 2, I shall get on with giving out the results where on most days two divisions were required and on Friday it even required three divisions.

Friday, Nov. 14, Phoenix - Stableford

Tewin ‘Poopay’ Lamthong - winner at Khao Kheow.

Roger Wilkinson - winner at Phoenix.

Monday, Nov. 10, Bangpakong Stableford

Tuesday, Nov. 11, Khao Kheow Stableford

On Monday it was another happy return to Bangpakong and that wonderful palatial locker room. In Division 1 Brian Beaupre once again showed the rest a clean pair of heels whilst in Division 2 Michael Law did the business with the best score of the day.

Div 1 (0-14) 1st Brian Beaupre (5) 37pts 2nd Mark Bell (13) 34pts 3rd Dave Edwards (13) 34pts Div 2 (15+) 1st Michael Law (18) 40pts 2nd David Booth (15) 35pts 3rd Demon Wong (20) 34pts

On Tuesday at Khao Kheow (A and C) it was Remembrance Day and after a moment of reflection Tewin Poopay Lamthong made it a day to remember for herself.

She smashed her way round and ran up a massive 45 points, which will probably mean the handicapper will cut her off at the knees and she will end up shorter still (she is under 5 feet already).

In Division 2, wily old John Baxter fought off the competition to take first place.

Div 1 (0-14) 1 st Tewin Lamthong (14) 45pts

2nd Ed Brubaker (13) 39pts 3rd Brian Beaupre (5) 34pts Div 2 (15+) John Baxter (17) 36pts Mint Siphardee (36) 34pts Demon Wong (20) 33pts

Thursday, Nov. 13, Green Valley Stableford It was our weekly outing to Green Valley on Thursday and I have little doubt that it had dried out a good deal from the previous week.

In Division 1 it was Alex Chow who ran up a commendable 38 points to take first place, whilst in Division 2 Geoff Beckett got his act together to walk off with the prize money.

Friday at Phoenix (Ocean and Mountain courses) it was back to the good old days when fields of forty or fifty golfers were the norm.

Forty-five turned up to play and this meant three divisions were necessary.

In Division 1 the guy who probably knows the course better than anyone, Roger Wilkinson, made his knowledge count although it was a close run thing as the top four all finished on 35 points.

Division 2 was headed by Craig Worley and for the first time in living memory Fergus Brennan became a Div. 2 player, not for long I suspect, while in Division 3 Tom Kett finished top of the pile.

Div 1 (0-13) 1 st Roger Wilkinson (13) 35pts 2nd Len Commons (13) 35pts 3rd Steve Carleton (7) 35pts Div 2 (14-18) 1st Craig Worley (14) 37pts 2nd Arnold Jones (14) 36pts

3 rd Fergus Brennan (14) 36pts Div 3 (19+) 1st Tom Kett (19) 40pts 2 nd Mint Siphardee (36) 38pts 3rd Demon Wong (20) 35pts

Saturday, Nov. 15, Crystal Bay Stableford To complete a busy week, the TRGG headed off to play Crystal Bay (A and C courses) on Saturday.

Numbers dropped back to the low 20’s and there was only one division.

Joan Murphy took up the cause for the ladies and ran off with first prize. She managed to pip the TRGG management team, with Derek Thorogood taking second place and Fergus Brennan having to be satisfied with third.

1st Joan Murphy (19) 40pts 2nd Derek Thorogood (14) 39pts 3 rd Fergus Brennan (14) 37pts Good luck to all you golfers for the coming week and if you would like to play a round of golf with the TRGG, please phone Fergus Brennan on 0860567019 or pop into the Ned Kelly Bar in Soi Lengkee and add your name to the weekly lists which are posted on the notice board.

Bangpra beats the field PSC Golf from The Outback Golf Bar Monday, Nov. 10, Burapha - Stableford The five groups playing Burapha were back on the more favoured A and B course from the white tees; carts were restricted to the rough though I thought the fairways were fine. As usual we were away early but our first group soon caught up with slow groups which I guess is only to be expected now the high season is here.

The winner on c/b with 39pts was Bob Finley from John Cunningham, while Pete Stonebridge was third with 38, Barney Clarkson took fourth and Tim Knight finished in fifth.

We said farewell to Les Easton and also to Garry Appleby.

A lucky 16ft putt gave Tim the only ‘2’ of the day.

1st Bob Finley (12) 39pts 2nd John Cunningham (06) 39pts 3rd Pete Stonebridge (17) 38pts 4 th Barney Clarkson (27) 34pts 5th Tim Knight (24) 33pts

Wednesday, Nov. 12, Bangpra Stableford It doesn’t get any better than this, a beautiful bright sunny morning on a course

that is absolutely stunning, but perhaps it does (get better I mean) as the scoring was awful to say the least.

Best score of the day was a lowly 31pts meticulously put together by Dennis Pelly.

Second was Tim Knight with a talented 27, beating Kim Danboise on c/b. Why was the scoring so bad? The rough was wicked and the greens were very fast, so now you know.

If you fancy your chances of beating this course, we’re back here again at 8.15am on Weds 26th November. General Jack will put a bonus of 500 baht’s worth of drinks back at the bar to anybody that plays better than their handicap (only valid on the day)! Don’t forget to sign up and pay in advance.

There were no ‘2’s.

1st Dennis Pelly (11) 31pts 2nd Tim Knight (24) 27pts 3rd Kim Danboise (15) 27pts 4th Jack Moseley (22) 26pts

Friday, Nov. 14, Green Valley Stableford At last the weather is cooling down as the humidity decreases and I hope that

From left: Chris Thompson, Sugar Ray (with the new bar pup, Jackie) and Murray Hart. the rainy season has at last finished; with a gentle breeze it seemed that today was a perfect day for golf for the 28 players.

Just about everyone was at the first tee at 9 a.m. and the starter tried to get us off then but we decided to wait for ten minutes as some people were still on

the putting green.

Talking about putting, the greens were very slow but obviously perfect for a few players as you can see from the results, which were generally very good.

Murray Hart led the way in Div A with an impressive 40pts, two clear of Kim Danboise (38) with Peter

Nixon one further back on 37 and John Cunningham (36).

Top score of the day was recorded by Chris Thompson with an excellent 42pts playing off 27, with Tim Knight playing most of the holes today to reach a total of 39 in second place. Third was Gerry Roche, also on 39, missing out on c/b as did Suzi in fourth spot.

Welcome to Dick Laidlaw a friend of Peter Nixon’s, here for a while to get a handicap he hopes.

There were four ‘2’s from Sugar Ray (5th), JP Maffray (8th), John Cunningham (12th) & Peter Nixon (16th).

Div A (0-17) 1st Murray Hart (11) 40pts 2nd Kim Danboise (15) 38pts 3rd Peter Nixon (12) 37pts 4th John Cunningham (06) 36pts Div B (18+) 1 st Chris Thompson (27) 42pts 2nd Tim Knight (24) 39pts 3rd Gerry Roche (20) 39pts 4th Suzi Lawton (25) 39pts Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. Call Jack on 081 578 1956.

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A tough Pleasant Valley Tuesday PSC Golf from Tropical Golf Group Tuesday, Nov. 11, Pleasant Valley – Stableford It was Tuesday morning and the Tropical Golf group gathered at BJ’s on “double eleven day” for their excellent breakfast, coffee, and see where the day’s journey would take us. After a glance at the schedule one said “Oh yeah, today is Pleasant Valley”. We had a couple new golfers join us and all are welcome. Right around 9:00 we hitched horses to wagons and headed out.

Pleasant Valley is a playable course currently in reasonably good condition considering the amount of rainfall in the recent past.

Give it a couple weeks and it should be in great shape for the season. However, Pleasant Valley is also a golf organizers nightmare. Though not a long course, there are

several water and other hazard carries off the tee that are difficult to carry for many golfers. Do you accommodate those golfers by playing closer tees making for a 5,800 yard course subject to many complaints, or keep them back for a still not massive 6,300 yard course ensuring the wrath of short hitters?

Well, make your best decision and tell all complainers, “Next time for sure”.

PV has one of the best 19th hole patios to relax after the round and watch others finish their rounds.

Usually a trip to Pleasant Valley brings in quite a few high scores, this time however the course got the better of the group. In fact, out of two flights, with the split at 19, only one golfer reached their handicap. That was Bill McGarvie (11) with a winning 36 points. Congrats Bill for the best score of the day!

Bill McGarvie (left) and Jim Ferris (right) celebrate with one of the BJ’s Holiday Lodge helpers.

The B-flight winner was Jim Ferris (20) with 35 points. An excellent effort!

A-Flight 1st Bill McGarvie (11) 36pts 2 nd Peter Blackburn (14) 35pts 3rd Gerd Riedler (7) 33pts B-Flight 1st Jim Ferris (20) 35pts 2nd Mike O’Brien (20) 35pts 3rd Ken Hole (17) 32pts Near Pins: Peter Blackburn, Bill McGarvie, Ken Hole (2) Long Putt: Graham Buckingham

Friday, Nov. 14, Plutaluang S & E – Stableford For once a forecast of good weather greeted the Tropical Golfers as they met at BJ’s Holiday Lodge. On the rotation this Friday was the Navy course, and today we were assigned the South and East courses, and we elected to play off the white tees. At least no nail biting lighthouse hole this time, but that doesn’t make the day easy.

Navy is always a fair test of golf skill and all clubs in your bag better be ready, along with a few extra balls just in case. As promised the weather was fine though a bit warm at times, allowing everyone to concentrate on their golf.

With a smaller than usual group everyone thought their chance to win was improved, but having only one

flight rather than the usual two actually made it harder to win. However, maybe that fact was lost on many players. The final winners were a tight grouping of only two different scores. When the dust settled Dick Warberg (18) edged Colm Mullen (17) on count-back, each with 36 points. Congrats to Dick!

Then the recently returned Brian Parish (13) won on count-back over Andrew Purdie (10), both with 34 points. A fine showing from everyone!

Dick Warberg (left) and Colm Mullen (right) pose with Lek. Near Pins: Dick Group plays Tuesdays and Warberg, Roger Rees (2), Fridays from BJ’s Holiday lodge on Soi 3 close to Brian Parish Note: The Tropical Golf Beach Road.

Andy’s caddy gives up on him The Backyard Golf Society It was a case of the tables being turned at Emerald last Friday, Nov. 14. In the series “The Deadliest Catch” we frequently see greenhorn crew members failing on the first trip out and the captain and crew give up on them.

In this case we saw Andy ‘The Deadliest Catch’ Crabb’s novice caddy say on the 5th hole that “she gave up” on him. Amidst the laughter from the other playing group Andy explained the young caddy’s stellar performance to that point in the round consisted of 2 pearls of wisdom: 1) that he was white whilst she was brown, something that was apparently repeated several times, and 2) that every shot,

even drives on the par 5, seemed to be 150 yards.

With high season upon is we had hoped to see some experienced caddies return to the courses but it seems some youngsters from the local kindergarten have infiltrated the ranks at Emerald. One can only hope that with another week under her belt this particular caddy realizes that most farangs are white and some shots are not 150 yards.

On to the golf, and the winner of the stableford competition was Irish John.

Near-pin on the par-three 15th went to Mickey ‘the Yak’, who has since departed with Mrs Yak to see the wonders of Angkor Wat.

The skins were well doled out with 7 to Irish John, 5 to Mr Oddie (we all hope she returns so we can use his Golden Trowel moniker again soon), 2 each to Diet Whiskey and Delia from Norwich (he also had a superb chipin birdie 2 on the near-pin hole), and singles to The Yak and The Quiet Man. We have lost Second-hand Bob back to Blighty, “The Impregnator” is gone is get married again and as he did not play it was a case of a no-show for “Who Brought Him”. Mr Oddie has told us that he will be calling the mustachioed one this week to sort out our supposed discount for playing the course 52 weeks a year.

Batty & Campbell there again IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the Elephant Bar The Pattaya Golf Society travelled to a sunny and bright Eastern Star on Monday, 10th November to play a stableford competition on a presentable course with some inconsistent and lightly sanded greens.

The course has toughened up over the years and high scores are at a premium there especially as water and OB threatens the unwary golfer on so many holes. This day was no exception with the field average being 28 points from a group with more than its share of quality golfers.

In third place was Garry Hookey whose round had somehow sneaked under the radar as he does not always feature in the frame on tough courses but today was his day and 33 points was testimony to the accuracy of his game. Sharing first place were the expected candidates, Jon Batty and Tony Campbell and their scores of 35 points matched the average winning score at the course for the group. It really is that competitive.

Mark Lang recorded the only birdie ‘2’ of the day, on

the sixth, whilst Larry Gibb enjoyed his luck as recipient of the bar’s free beer draw, with Mark Cooper taking the Booby Bevy for a split of 13 -19 points which ultimately fell one short of the podium.

Eastern Star was a tough start to the new week with the Pattaya Golf Society.

Beauty & the Beast Bangpra was the venue for the Pattaya Golf Society’s stableford competition on Wednesday, 12th November.

The day dawned brightly and a hot and humid day on a beautiful track lay ahead of the large group, divided into two divisions cut at 13 and under.

Bangpra greens were back to their wicked best, with endless “roll” from the softest touch and only those with initial uphill putts would stand a chance of scoring well.

In the second flight Willie Barbour made the podium for the first time with 27 points, proving length is not everything on a golf course, whilst Dave Lehane took second place with 32 points.

The flight winner was Danish golfer Jesper Hansen with 33 points.

The top flight inevitably saw better scores with Andrew Purdie recording 32 points for third whilst marginally ahead on 33 was Brian Beaupre. The winner was Jon Batty and his 38 points was constructed with only twenty-six putts in the whole round. Phew!

The only birdie ‘2’s were in the second flight as Dave Lehane (2) shared the pot with Tatsumi Noguchi (12) of Japan. The bar’s consolation beer went to the returning Dave Heyes and big Tony Campbell gleefully accepted the Booby Bevy after his hero-to-zero round which saw one of Monday’s heroes plunge to an all time low with PGS with his own version of “military” golf and erratic putting.

Bangpra in this condition will be a test for even the best of golfers but there will be many wanting to give it a try during the next few months.

Invincible Batty A week’s tough golf ended for the Pattaya Golf Society with a trip to Mountain Shadow to play a stableford competition on a well presented

course with run and medium paced greens, which were really in need of a cut. Two flights contested with the cut coming at 12.3 and under and it saw some notables playing in the second flight for the first time in many a month.

The second flight saw a very competitive event with four golfers sharing third place as Garry Hookey, Mike King, Dave Lehane and Murray Edwards all managed 30 points. One point ahead was Dave Edwards in second and the flight winner was steady Aussie Bryan Brown, rarely off the fairway and enjoying his best round for a while.

In the top flight the competition was just as tight with Mark Cooper and a returning Rick Schramm both posting 35 points for third. Brian Beaupre took second with 36 points and his golf was the best gross of the day,77 shots. The winner hit a hattrick of wins this week as another impeccable performance by Jon Batty emphasised his current form with 37 points. His swing may be unorthodox but all

the evidence shows it is very effective and this week’s three wins will find no doubters.

Jon also recorded a brace of ‘2’s to share the pot with Peter Wilson, Rick Schramm and Mark Lang whilst in the

second flight Dave Lehane enjoyed the spoils for the sole birdie on the seventeenth. Congratulations on a fine week Jon but there are golfers out there “marking your card!. Any thoughts on next week?

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Harney and Quill lead the way PSC Golf from The Growling Swan The Drut

Monday, Nov. 10, Mt. Shadow Stableford A convoy only second to the one in Ward Bond’s television show Wagon Train departed Soi Chaiyapoon anticipating a great day, and they weren’t disappointed.

Welcomes were handed out to Don Richardson from Ireland, Roger Rees from England and Aussie Peter Bye. The weather was warm, the fairways in good condition and the greens despite being patchy putted ok.

J.J. Harney’s 42 points led the A grade and gave the field a gentle reminder of his ability in a manner not seen since the biblical youngster David showed Goliath some close quarter combat skills.

Second was Ebrahim on 40 points whilst Bill Steinmann and Don Richardson both scored 38 to round it out.

Mike Quill in B grade showed the way with a stylish 39, followed by Eric (The Judge) Black on 38. Bob Akapita and Marc Henkel completed the podium.

Left-right: J.J. Harney, Bernie McCart and Mike Quill.

The coveted Compass Cap made a long awaited return after being in hibernation for two years. A cast of thousands rose as one to welcome it back and Bernie McCart the recipient, lamented his score was lower than a kneeling Danny Devito.

A Flight (0–15) 1st JJ Harney (10) 42pts 2nd Ebrahim (14) 40pts 3rd Bill Steinmann (9) 38pts 4 th Don Richardson (14) 38pts B Flight (16+) 1st Mike Quill (18) 39pts 2nd Eric Black (16) 38pts 3rd Bob Akapita (17) 34pts 4th Marc Henkel (29) 33pts

Near Pins: Peter Bye, Eric Black, Bob Akapita, Glen Henrikson Long Putts: Scott Baumgarten, Roger Rees

Thursday, Nov. 13, Crystal Bay – Stableford A heap of eager golfers faced the challenge to their skill, intestinal fortitude and disseminating perseverance.

Welcomes were handed out to Colm Mullen from Ireland and John Anderson and Mark Stapleton from Australia.

A nice breeze kept playing conditions very pleasant and

Sandy Leiper (left) with Kae. with the fairways in good shape and the greens having improved immeasurably since our last visit, all players enjoyed the day.

The starter, who was as vigilant as the supervisor on the conveyor belt line at the Heineken brewery, sent us on our way to play the C and A nines.

In the A grade Kae continued her good form to hand in 38 points for the win. Second was Don Richardson on 37 whilst Mike Gosden scored 35 for third.

In the B grade, popular guy

Sandy Leiper scored 37 points to stand atop the podium. One point back in second place was Mark Stapleton on a count back over John Anderson, who collapsed on the back nine like a dodgy apartment building on the sub continent.

The Naga was won by Russell Calcutt who confessed to having as much finesse in his hands, read 10%, as the guy who put on Barbara Cartland’s makeup.

A Flight (0–18) 1st Kae (18) 38pts 2nd Don Richardson (14) 37pts 3rd Mike Gosden (15) 35pts

B Flight (19+) 1st Sandy Leiper (33) 37pts 2 nd Mark Stapleton (31) 36pts 3rd John Anderson (31) 36pts Near Pins: Bill McGarvie, Kae, John Anderson.

Long Putts: Gary Monley, Colm Mullen.

Note: The GS is a friendly golf outlet and caters for and encourages all golfers male or female to have a hit at any of our weekly outings. We generally play Mondays and Thursdays at one of the many fine golf courses in and around Pattaya. Please contact Peter Grey if you are interested on 0861 503086.

The Growling Swan also caters to the bowls enthusiasts. Bus transport departs the GS on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. to play at Cocos on undercover synthetic greens and on Sundays at the same time for open grass bowling at The Retreat. Please contact Paul Rennison on 0843 454005 if you wish to partake. The cost including return bus transport, bowling fees and a hot lunch is less than 400 baht so great value for a day out

Khan wins Chiang Mai Classic by 1 shot

Rashid Khan celebrates on the 18th green after winning the 2014 Chiang Mai Classic golf tournament at the Alpine Golf Resort Chiangmai, Sunday, November 16. (Photo courtesy Asian Tour) Rashid Khan lifted his second Asian Tour trophy after beating Jyoti Randhawa and Thanyakon Khrongpha by one shot in the Chiang Mai Classic last Sunday.

The 23-year-old Indian, who won his maiden tour trophy in New Delhi in February, shot 4-under 68 for an overall 17-under 271.

Khan, who trailed overnight leader Thanyakon (71) by two strokes at the Alpine Golf Resort, recovered from an opening bogey in the final

round which was halted by rain for an hour after both players had completed three holes.

Khan came back strongly with solid putting, highlighted by a 15-footer from the bunker on the 15th.

“I just won my first title this year and did not expect my second so early,” Khan said.

“Making that par putt on the 15th was the turning point.”

Randhawa, the eight-time Asian Tour winner from India, shot 69 to finish on 16under 272 with Thanyakorn.

Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat (69) was fourth on 14-under 274.

Former U.S. PGA Championship winner Jason Dufner fired 66 for his best score of the week and an 11-under 277 total. The American tied for seventh with Malaysian Danny Chia (67), South African Jbe Kruger (70) and Australian Scott Barr (73).

Former Masters champion Charl Schwartzel of South Africa shot 68 to finish joint 42nd with 2-under 286. (AP)

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Phil Groves puts on a masterclass IPGC Golf from The Haven Monday, Nov. 10, Eastern Star Stableford CSS 72 1st Phil Groves (11) 39pts 2nd Brian Watson (15) 37pts 3rd John Carlin (18) 34pts 4th Paul Young (14) 29pts 5th Peter Skinner (12) 28pts 6th Jon Yarrow (14) 28pts At last the weather seems to have cleared up and we can all look forward to the hot and steamy high season but it all seems very quiet around the courses still, with many numbers missing compared to previous years. At least it has meant a sharpening of pencils by the course managements, as they seek to keep their player numbers at a reasonable level. There are exceptions, with some courses not seeming to “get it’ and consequently their throughput of golfers will no doubt suffer as the customer base realise the different values on offer in the market.

As always The Haven continues to support those courses that offer quality golf at a good value.

Phil Groves started off the week with a good round by most standards, although he sets himself a high standard and even though he returned

a winning score of three under handicap he still lamented his inability to “ break 80”, but it was good enough by two to see off his nearest challenger on the day.

That was Brian Watson, who started his good off with a second spot at one under handicap on a day when scoring was at a premium.

John Carlin slipped into third place well clear of fourth placed Paul Young, with Peter Skinner claiming fifth after winning a count back over Jon Yarrow.

There were no 2’s in the second division but Phil Groves added to his spoils with the sole one in the first division.

Wednesday, Nov. 12, Greenwood A & B Stableford CSS 72 1st Phil Groves (11) 44pts 2nd Barry Wellings (6) 36pts 2nd Danny Greer (25) 35pts 4th Brian Watson (15) 34pts 5th Wayne Challis (14) 33pts 6th John Carlin (18) 33pts Greenwood is still offering very competitively priced golf on a course that is always presented in tip top condition and even a slight hiccup when the start was delayed could not diminish

Friday, Nov. 12, Khao Kheow B & C – Stableford

Phil Groves. an excellent day’s golf.

At last Phil Groves almost had a smile on his face at the end of a very, very good round that was highlighted by a back nine of gross 75 which included eight pars and a birdie for 25 points.

This, added to a solid 19 going out, totaled an unassailable eight under and well and truly broke 80 and it had Phil dreaming of the old days back in OZ when he was a major player in his club’s Pennant team.

The quality of the winning score could can be recognised when it is seen that the next best round was at level par, returned by Barry Wellings which earned him second place ahead of Danny Greer who made all his handicap shots count with his best round for some considerable time.

Masami Takagi.

Brian Watson took his second podium placement for the week with his fourth spot ahead of a three-way count back for fifth and sixth which Wayne Challis won with a better 17 and John Carlin pipped Robert Phelps with a better 16 to 14 for sixth.

Once again there were no 2’s in the second division but Wayne Challis had the solo one to claim the first division pool.

Prior to the presentations there was a welcome for new member Robert Phelps together with welcome backs for Wayne Challis, Mick Alleyne, Peter Newham, Danny Greer and last but not least to the runner, Stephen Beard, heavily disguised as a golfer but having not looked at all like one out on the course.

CSS 73 1st Masami Takagi (28) 36pts 2nd Brian Watson (15) 35pts 3rd Mick Alleyne (8) 35pts 4th Paul Young (14) 35pts 5th Phil Groves (11) 35pts With the special price green fee tickets running low, the day was one of the last chances to play the Pete Dye design at a fantastic value and on a course that always offers a stern challenge no matter which nines are in play. Once again the weather was very good with a slight breeze and some overcast skies and a well presented course to enjoy.

Masami Takagi took his first win out of the Haven with his equal best score in Pattaya after five years of trying to break a 100 and this was his third occasion to do so, much to the delight of his tour party who sank copious amounts of “top shelf, top quality sake” to celebrate late into the night.

The next four places had to be settled by count back with Brian Watson again on the podium in second place with 14 on the back six after

he had tied with Mick Alleyne, who finished third with 11, for the nine on 19 each. Paul Young placed fourth after he beat Phil Groves with an 18 to 15 on the back nine.

Once again there were no 2’s in the second division ensuring that the next week will start off with a very full pot, but Phil Groves made up for missing out in the main competition by taking the only one in the first division.

Prior to the presentations there were welcome backs for Frank Hughes, Warby Hohenhaus and the Tour Group “Yatamama Tours” here in Pattaya for their fifth time..

Note: If you would like to play with The Haven group, you can contact 038 710 988 or call in to The Haven Hotel, at 185 Soi 13, between Beach Road and 2nd Road.

All transportation to the course is arranged and you do not need to sign up prior to the day, but you should be there by 8.15 on a Monday, Wednesday, and Friday on the days that you wish to play. A schedule of courses to be played can be found on our web site at www.thehaven-hotel.com.

Bourne blitz at Eastern Star Jomtien Golf with the IPGC greens were probably the slowest we have played on here for some time.

Near went to Gerry Cooke, Dennis Scougal, Chris Voller, Robert Angell, Paul Hobson, Chris Reed and John Walsh.

Dennis Scougall birdied the 8th and Chris Voller the 5th to split the ‘2’s pot in division 1 while Paul Hobson and John Walsh did the same in the second flight.

Monday, Nov. 10, Treasure Hill – Stableford The weather seems to be improving in the region, has the rainy season finally ended here? Thia was our first visit to Treasure Hill for a couple of months and we had seven groups out with the cut at 7-18 and 19 + in divisions 1 & 2.

We played off the yellows today at 6377 yards, which was enough for the majority of the field. The course was in very good condition and still a tough test of golf, especially the second hole par-three over the water, and nobody was on the green from the tee in either division today.

Frank Boudewyns, playing off 20, topped division 2 with 33 points and Magne Gunnarson came in second after beating Robert Angell 17/14 on a back nine count back, both on 31 points.

In the first division Pete Sumner was on fire out of the blocks, scoring 21 on the front nine but then he faded badly over the inward half.

Chris Voller won the division with 35 points, three ahead of Terry Madsen who took

points and in third place Gerry Cooke beat the newly returned Eiichi Matsumoto on another c/b after they were tied on 33 points apiece.

Near pins were claimed by

Gerry Cooke, Pete Sumner, Chris Voller, Keith Wooley, Joe Kubon, Chris Slota, Iain Walsh and John Walsh.

Pete Sumner birdied the 17th for the only ‘2’ of the day.

Friday, Nov. 14, Eastern Star From left: Edward Bourne, Pete Sumner, Gerry Stableford Cooke and John Walsh. second on a 17/15 count back over Barry Welling.

Near pins were shared between Gerry Cooke, Chris Voller, Jim Connelly, Ray Hucknall and Jeff Van Uffelen.

Irish boy Gerry Cooke and Frank Boudewyns both birdied the 6th to record the only ‘2’s of the day.

Wednesday, Nov. 12, Mt. Shadow Stableford Another 7 groups out today with an almost identical cut as Monday and the highest score of the day was returned in division 1 with

Dennis Scougall coming in with 39 points. Back from Oz, Chris Reed placed second some seven points behind Dennis and in third place was Colin Aspinall who beat John Walsh on count back after both retuned 29 points each.

Robert Angell was the winner in division 2 with 33 points, one up on Frank Boudewyns in second and in third place was Paul Hobson who edged a count back verdict over Ali and Jeff after they all came in with 28 points.

The course was still in good condition but the

Our highest turnout of the week with 9 groups and over 32 players out so we had three divisions with an almost equal cut of 7-15, 16-19 and 20+.

Edward Bourne, playing off 13, shot his best round for a very long time to win division 1 with 42 points. Terry Madsen came in second with a creditable 40 points and Dennis Scougall took third on 37.

In division 3, Pepo Frick retuned 38 points for first place while in second was Glyn Evans, who beat Joe Kubon on count back after both scored 34 points each.

Frank Kelly was the winner in division 2 on a count back over Chris Slota after both scored 36

Free Passes Available For PSC Members at Pattaya Sports Club & Pattaya Mail Offices

48 FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 2014

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VOL. XXII No. 47

Strong finish for Larsson PSC Golf from The Golf Club visitor Peter Larsson who took top spot today with a fine 37 as he winds down his last few rounds with us before heading back to a chilly Scandinavian November.

Steve Ellison

Monday, Nov. 10, Green Valley (white tees) – Stableford 1st Robbie Taylor (15) 39pts 2nd Ken Aihara (5) 38pts T3rd Steve Mulberry (11) 36pts T3rd Dave Mohr (18) 36pts T3rd Andy Makara (29) 36pts Green Valley once again was the location for the Monday Classic and it was a full house that showed up for breakfast. The course was just superb and the weather gorgeous, which could possibly lull us into the complacency that the rains are gone for another year. We certainly hope so.

Mr. Mulberry is back with us for the season after a long summer in Blackpool. The tangerine dream team gave way to a generous gift from Steve to our man from Burma, the King of the BBQ, Raju, as Stevie brought him his own personal Manchester United kit which he is wearing proudly. Add that to the team wallet signed by Wayne Rooney that John Hutt

Friday, Nov. 14, Greenwood (white tees) – Stableford

Dave and Phil with Peter Larsson. gifted a few weeks back and Choo probably now has the best collection of Man U stuff in Pattaya!

On to the golf as we saw the usual suspects up on the leaderboard with Robbie Taylor besting the rest.

Robbie is always a good laugh after the round and did very well today to clock up a fine 39 on the card for the win.

Wednesday, Nov. 12, Emerald (white tees) – Stableford 1st Peter Larsson (13) 37pts

2nd Ed Brubaker (13) 34pts 3rd Mike Cantrell (29) 27pts Look up at that leaderboard!

A full 10 shots separated the first place from third place which starts to explain why The Emerald can be such a tough and unforgiving track.

It must have been a tough old slog for the rest of the field as none of them could muster better than 26 points on the day.

This is one of those little gems of Pattaya golf courses and as I have always said, it has probably the best

Spoiled rotten: Steve Mulberry looks after Choo! collection of par-3 holes on offer. After a dry and sparse summer, The Emerald is back in great form and one of the best value golf courses we play.

Over for a quick vacation from the States, Mike Cantrell must have been surprised to find his humble 27 points would garner a 3rd place finish, but it sure did. Gentleman golfer Ed Brubaker had a good solid 34 point round here which would satisfy most locals on this challenging course. It was our Swedish buddy and regular

1st Peter Larsson (13) 38pts 2nd Phil Smedley (11) 36pts 3rd Dave Ferris (23) 34pts It is always nice to bring guys out here who have never played this course, as they always will become fans of this lovely track. The course is in very good condition and the greens are faster and even trickier than I remember.

I have discovered something strange and interesting about the relationship between Greenwood and Pattavia that I would like to share. I observed that when we played Pattavia a few weeks back, some of the views were nearly identical to those of Greenwood. After I did the old “google Maps” thing of the area I discovered there is about

500 yards between the A-6 at Greenwood and the green at the 3 rd hole at Pattavia.

Strange but true, so have a look, google it for yourself and you will see what I mean.

Leaving the geography for the golf, it seems to be a regular occurrence that a bloke gets to Pattaya and is here for a few weeks and at the end of his trip, everything starts to fall into place and the low scores are coming easier by the round. Such was the case for Peter Larsson as he won on Wednesday and now also took the win today, his last round of his holiday. Peter is the kind of guy everyone wants to play with as he is always smiling, cool and collected on the course. Glad to see you finished on a high note mate!

Note: The Golf Club is located on Soi LK Metro. Just call 085 434 3377 or see our website www.golfclubpattaya .com and for more information mail us: pattaya4golf @gmail.com and see updates at www.facebook.com/ golfclubpattaya... all handicaps welcome.

Gray runs wild as Patriots blow out Colts 42-20 Indianapolis (AP) - Jonas Gray rushed for 199 yards and a franchise-record four touchdowns in his fourth career game, leading the New England Patriots to a 42-20 victory over the Indianapolis Colts last Sunday.

Tom Brady threw two TD passes as the AFC-best Patriots (8-2) earned their sixth consecutive victory, and finished with 19 of 30 for 257 yards with two interceptions.

Colts quarterback Andrew Luck was 23 of 39 for 303 yards with two scores. He extended his franchise record of consecutive 300yard games to eight and moved within one of Drew Brees’ NFL record.

But the unheralded Gray was the surprise star. His first two scoring runs gave New England a 14-10 halftime

lead. His other two helped put the game away in the second half. Brady sealed it with a late TD pass to Rob Gronkowski.

The St. Louis Rams defense made life miserable for Peyton Manning in a 22-7 victory over the AFC Westleading Denver Broncos earlier Sunday, and Shaun Hill was effective in his first start since regaining the quarterback job.

Rookie Tre Mason had 29 carries for 113 yards, the most allowed by the Broncos’ top-ranked run defense.

Kenny Britt had four catches for 128 yards with a 63-yard score and Greg Zuerlein was a career-best 5 for 5 on field goals for the Rams (4-6).

Manning was 34 for 54 for 389 yards with two interceptions, but was held to a 42-yard

New England Patriots running back Jonas Gray (centre) runs against the Indianapolis Colts during the second half of their NFL football game in Indianapolis, Sunday, Nov. 16. (AP Photo/AJ Mast) touchdown pass to Emmanuel Sanders, ending a streak of 15 consecutive games with at least two touchdown passes.

At Glendale, Drew Stanton threw touchdown passes to Michael Floyd on Arizona’s first two possessions and the Cardinals held Detroit without a touchdown, beating the Lions 14-6 in a matchup of teams with two of the best records in the NFC. Arizona won their sixth in a row to improve to an NFLbest 9-1. The Cardinals, with their best record through 10 games since 1948, have a three-game lead over Seattle

and San Francisco in the NFC West.

The Kansas City Chiefs won a fifth straight game, stopping Seattle on fourth down three times late in the fourth quarter and holding on for a tense 24-20 victory in a matchup of playoff contenders.

At Cleveland, J.J. Watt caught a 2-yard touchdown pass from Ryan Mallett, dominated on defense and Houston climbed back to .500 with a 23-7 win over the Browns. Along with his TD, Watt recorded a strip sack, made five tackles — three for a loss — recovered a fumble

and hurried Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer.

The Packers had a 53-20 win over the Eagles, who were held to 11 points below their NFC-leading scoring average by a defense rejuvenated since Clay Matthews moved to inside linebacker.

In Monday night’s game, Ben Roethlisberger threw a 12-yard touchdown pass to Antonio Brown with 9:01 left as the Pittsburgh Steelers edged the Tennessee Titans 27-24.

The Steelers (7-4) staged an impressive rally in the second half to take sole possession of second in the

successful AFC North heading into their bye. Le’Veon Bell ran for 204 yards and a TD, and William Gay returned an interception 28 yards for a score. Shaun Suisham kicked two field goals.

Roethlisberger had never beaten the Titans at LP Field, having missed the Steelers’ win here in 2010. With Bell running through and over the Titans, the Steelers took the pressure off Big Ben by holding the ball for 39 minutes, 16 seconds with a 386312 edge in total offense.

The Titans (2-8) blew a 2413 lead in their fourth consecutive loss.

In other games, the 49ers beat the Giants 16-10 to send New York to their fifth straight loss, the Bengals beat the Saints 27-10, the Bears won for just the second time in seven games — overcoming two of the worst blowout losses in the club’s history — with a 21-13 victory over the Vikings.

Atlanta moved into a share of first place in the NFC South with a 19-17 win over the Panthers, the Charges beat the Raiders 13-6, extending Oakland’s losing streak to 16, and Mike Evans led the Buccaneers to a 27-7 win over Washington.

Evans caught seven passes for 209 yards and scored two touchdowns, becoming the first rookie to post three consecutive 100yard games with at least one touchdown in each since Randy Moss in 1998.

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France gain revenge, beat Wallabies 29-26 International Rugby Union round-up Paris (AP) - France beat Australia 29-26 in a thriller at Stade de France last Saturday to avenge three losses against the Wallabies in June and earn a big fillip less than a year out from the Rugby World Cup. The French blew an early 17-6 lead, going into the break up by one point.

They stayed in front with four penalties in the second half but couldn’t pull away, and were down to 14 men in the closing minutes when their lead was cut to three points in the 76th minute after a converted try from lock Rob Simmons.

Australia kept the pressure on against the tiring French, taking their attack to in front of the French posts. France held on and were able to bask in the victory when Wallabies scrumhalf Will Genia was penalized for offside.

“This was a very important match to show the whole world that we are able to compete with the best teams,” France coach Philippe SaintAndre said.

At Twickenham in London, the South African Springboks extended their dominance over England by resisting a second-half fightback last Saturday to close out a 31-28 win, leaving next year’s World Cup host stuttering on a fivegame losing run.

Starved of possession, the Springboks used opportunist finishing to build a 20-6 lead thanks to center Jan Serfontein’s 60-meter interception score in the 16th minute and a 42nd-minute try by scrumhalf Cobus Reinach following a stunning offload

by Willie le Roux.

England wiped out the deficit within six minutes through tries by David Wilson and replacement Ben Morgan, both from driving mauls and both while veteran South Africa lock Victor Matfield was in the sin-bin.

Schalk Burger halted English momentum by immediately restoring South Africa’s lead with a close-range try, and Pat Lambie kicked a penalty and a dropped goal to make Brad Barritt’s lastgasp try for England a mere consolation. Lambie scored 16 points on his first start at flyhalf in a year.

South Africa haven’t lost to England in 12 matches since 2006, with this disciplined performance in steady drizzle a vast improvement on the previous week’s 29-15 defeat in Ireland, which augurs well for their chances in an autumn World Cup in the northern hemisphere.

“The big difference from last week and this week was our intensity,” South Africa captain Jean de Villiers. “Mentally we turned up today.”

South Africa’s Jan Serfonein raises his hand as he runs on to score a breakaway try against England at Twickenham stadium in London, Saturday, Nov. 15. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) In Edinburgh, New Zealand barely upheld their unbeaten record against Scotland as they overcame errors and the stubborn hosts to prevail 2416 at Murrayfield on Saturday.

The All Blacks have treated visits to Murrayfield as a little R and R on their endof-year tours, with six wins by an average of 31 points since 2001.

France’s Camille Lopez is tackled by Australia’s James Horville during their rugby union international match at the Stade De France in Paris, Saturday Nov. 15. (AP Photo/Francois Mori)

But a slew of mistakes, including by superstars Richie McCaw and Dan Carter, undermined the All Blacks’ ambition, and raised Scotland hopes of a first victory in 109 years of contests.

The Scots’ closed to within one with 14 minutes to go, then captain and scrumhalf Greig Laidlaw missed a chance for the lead 10 minutes out when his penalty, 30 meters from the left, flew wide right.

It was his first miss in five shots, and last shot at goal.

“It was a big chance but it just hung out to the right,” Laidlaw said. “But we win together and we lose together.

New Zealand, who dominated possession and territory in the second spell, finally scored the second try they desperately sought after sustained pressure on the try-line, lock Jeremy Thrush crashing over off ruck ball in the 74th minute.

Colin Slade added the conversion, and the eight-point lead was a dagger in Scottish hearts.

In Cardiff, Wales were made to look second-rate by Fiji again as they failed to fully exploit a man advantage in eking out a 17-13 win in a poor rugby test at Millennium Stadium.

Wales sent their wingers flashing over for tries in the first quarter, and the expected romp looked on. But the Welsh lost control by constantly turning over possession in ball-jolting tackles.

The scrum and lineout, powerful in the first half, became unreliable in the second.

Wales led by a flattering 17-6 at halftime but couldn’t score again, despite being a man up after Fiji prop

New Zealand’s Jeremy Thrush (centre) is tackled

by Scotland’s Alex Dunbar (right) and Greig Laidlaw (left) during their match at Murrayfield, Edinburgh, Saturday Nov. 15. (AP Photo/Scott Heppell) Campese Ma’afu was sent off in the 52nd minute. The Welsh had two tries disallowed in a second half in which neither side appeared to show a game plan.

Instead, error was piled upon error under the closed roof in front of a restless crowd of 61,326, 6,000 more than attended the Wallabies test a week before.

“I’m disappointed in the performance,” Wales captain Gethin Jenkins said.

“We lacked a lot of basic skills, and lost the ball too often. Fiji gave us a hell of a game, and we’re just glad to be out on the right end of the scoreboard.”

Ireland cut loose in the second half to run in six tries for a 49-7 thrashing of Georgia in Dublin on Sunday, making it two wins from two for the Six Nations champions in the autumn tests.

The Irish rested most of their top players after the 2915 victory over South Africa and their second string took

a while to find their cutting edge, taking just a 9-0 lead into halftime through three penalties from flyhalf Ian Madigan.

However, after prop David Kilcoyne barged over for the first try in the 43rd minute, there was no stopping Ireland as hooker Richardt Strauss, winger Simon Zebo, fullback Felix Jones (two) and replacement Stuart Olding also crossed the line.

Georgia paid for getting two yellow cards for persistent infringing, the first on the stroke of halftime for Giorgi Begadze and then for Dimitri Basilaia in the 60th.

Giorgi Nemsadze scored its only try in the 56th, making it 23-7 at the time.

Ireland will look to complete a clean sweep of November victories by beating Australia on Saturday.

In other matches last weekend, Tonga beat the USA 4012, Samoa overcame Canada 23-13 and Argentina scraped a 20-18 win over Italy.

Klitschko floors Pulev in 5th round

Bulgarian boxer Kubrat Pulev (right) lies sprawled on the canvas after being knocked down by defending champion Wladimir Klitschko (left) during their heavy-weight world title bout in Hamburg, Germany, Saturday, Nov. 15. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Hamburg, Germany (AP) - Wladimir Klitschko knocked out the previously unbeaten Kubrat Pulev in the fifth round to retain his four heavyweight belts last Saturday.

Klitschko sent the Bulgarian flying back with a huge left punch to his jaw, leaving him sprawled on the canvas and giving referee Tony Weeks no option but to end the bout.

Klitschko, taller with a longer reach, dominated from the start and had the IBF’s mandatory challenger down twice in the opening round, first with a left jab. Pulev stood up again, stuck out his tongue and stood on one leg to show he was OK, but the Ukrainian knocked him down again straight away.

Klitschko dropped him to the canvas again in the third, which Pulev did well to finish with a bloody left eye.

Just when the challenger seemed to be improving, Klitschko finished the bout abruptly, 2 minutes, 11 seconds into the fifth.

Klitschko recorded his 54th KO in 63 wins, with three defeats, and he dedicated his latest victory to the Ukrainian people, “who are going through tough times.”

“To Pulev’s fans I want to say, you have to be sporting, Pulev fought a good fight,” the 38-year-old said. “It was hard to work, the

left jab. Pulev prepared well.”

Pulev, who dropped to 20-1 (11 KOs), said Klitschko was “lucky.”

“Wladimir is a really good opponent, but he was lucky. I want a rematch. I’ll win the next time,” Pulev said. “There’s luck in boxing. He’s a good boxer but he’s unsporting.

There were a lot of tricks.”

Pulev was warned more than once by Weeks for punching to the back of Klitschko’s head.

In his 26th world championship fight, Klitschko retained his WBA, IBF, and minor WBO and IBO heavyweight belts. He hasn’t been beaten since a fifth-round defeat to Lamon Brewster on April 10, 2004.

The fight was originally scheduled for Sept.

6, but was postponed after Klitschko hurt a left bicep in training.

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Tore & Odd bloom at 5th annual Poppy Golf challenge

Tournament winners Tore Eliassen and Odd Holm-Hansen receive their prizes from Graham MacDonald MBE (left), President of the Royal British Legion, Emcee Derek Brook (right) and Max Matthews (standing rear centre)

Derek Brook

Ning Neal (right) receives a near pin prize from Graham MacDonald.

The Chairman says thank you to the ‘strongest team’ for their indomitable spirit.

Like all good things in life, the idea for a golf tournament to mark the annual period of Remembrance and support for the poppy appeal came from a meeting of minds in Tropical Bert’s back in 2009. Now approaching its fifth edition, it was time for the volunteers, a.k.a. the scribe and Max, to get the event sailing smoothly once more.

One of good thing about already having a few tournaments in the book is that you have a record, and hopefully if it is good, the players will reappear. So it was on this day and the sign-ups came in thick and fast and we had close to 152 players for the 2-ball better ball stableford comp. I suspect that playing at Khao Kheow at a great rate was also much to do with it.

Friday, November 7 started with fine weather and Max was down at the course early to get things set up.

With a few no-shows we finally got underway with 144 players off a two-tee start from 10 a.m. and all were away by 12:30 - and that is when the rain hit. Fortunately it

Runners-up Jim Heaney and Dominick Downey collect their awards. only lasted 10 minutes and although the skies remained threatening, the rain stayed away for the rest of the afternoon.

Although carts were not allowed on fairways, the course was in good condition (if a little soft in places) and the Khao Kheow staff really put themselves out for this day and to them I say thank you.

Round over, Max and Matt were busy beavering away sorting the results out and I must also say thanks to Bob and Mike who gave of their day to assist. Bob sold the poppies and Mike acted as Starter.

The post tournament function and prize-giving ceremony was held the following evening at Amari Pattaya’s Tavern By The Sea and was attended by over 170 golfers and their guests. The venue provided a superb buffet that was enjoyed by all, certainly the best I have seen for years, and with drinks at special prices the beers went down well also. A big thanks goes to Brendan Daly and his staff at the Amari.

The night started with the Chairman and Emcee saying his thank you and asking Graham MacDonald MBE, President of the Royal British Legion, to say a few words of appreciation to the main sponsors, namely Twining’s, Pattaya Reality and Manpower Services.

He did not mention his own company, but I did, as MBMG are the biggest supporters of The Royal British Legion here in Thailand. As Chairman, I also thanked Colin Davis of Lewiinski’s, the Amari management and staff and last but not least to Maxwell Matthews, who has given me so much support over the years.

A day such as this does also not go on without good will and hard work from many of the golfers. Here, Max and I would like to give thanks to them all and especially Daryl Evans, Mashi Kaneta, Dick Warberg, Tom Cotton and Keith Phillips.

They added many of the

items for the raffle, and also made my job much easier.

Appreciation was also given to Chris Balzis for his fine shirts delivered on time, to the Navy lads for the trophies, to the Pattaya Mail for media support and last but not least to all the hotels who gave prizes for the ‘Draw’ and to Christina who gathered a list of hotel vouchers the like of which I have never seen.

So on to the presentation for the golf, and first we awarded the accolade of ‘strongest team’ of the day to Kurt Eberhardt and Otto Schmid. They always give of their best and epitomize what the game is all about.

Coming in sixth place in the tournament with 48 points was the pairing of Mashi Kaneta and Tom Herrington, just losing on count back to John Hackett and Jim Ferris in fifth. Fourth spot went to

Gordon Melia and Geoff Parker who also lost out on a count back to Bernard Green and Marcus Earp, both teams with 49 points each. The runners-up were the duo of Jim Heaney and Dominick Downey with a fine 50 points but edging them out of top place on 51 points were Tore Eliassen and Odd Holm-Hansen - well played gentlemen!

Near Pins: A3 - Max Scott, Barry Elphick; A5 - Jeff Clohessy, Sean Soden; B3 - Ning Neal, Dick Warberg; B8 - Donal McGuigan, Jim Ferris.

Long Putts: A9 - Terry Smith, Aidan Murray; B9 Bob Newell, Les Easton.

We then held the Lucky Draw to complete the night and it was time for the Scribe to relax with friends and listen to the trials, tribulations and triumphs of the day.

T.T.F.N.

A busy signing-in desk at Khao Kheow.

On the first tee with the Starter.

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Watson hopes for third time lucky at Thailand Golf Championship After securing his first tournament victory outside the United States at the recent WGC-HSBC Champions in Shanghai, Bubba Watson says he is looking to continue his winning run when he returns to the region for next month’s Thailand Golf Championship.

Watson, who defeated Tim Clark in a play-off after forcing sudden-death with a brilliant eagle on the final hole of regulation play for his first World Golf Championship title, lines up against a topclass field of players at Amata Spring Country Club for the Asian Tour’s flagship event, which will be played

from December 11-14.

The two-time Masters champion’s best result in Thailand came in 2012 when he finished tied second behind runaway winner Charl Schwartzel –but with his confidence boosted by his fine play in China, the left-hander is hoping to go one better at the US$1 million event.

“Winning internationally has long been a goal of mine, so to break through in Shanghai was a really big deal for me,” said 36-year-old Watson, who has played the last two editions of the Thailand Golf Championship. “It sets me up great for the Thailand Golf Championship next

month. It’s an event I love playing, over a course that sets up really well for me, so hopefully I can make it a case of third time lucky at Amata Spring.”

Meanwhile, award-winning young guns Chesson Hadley and Carlos Ortiz, both of whom have enjoyed hugely successful seasons in the United States, will make their debut appearances at the Thailand Golf Championship.

American Hadley, the 2014 PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, and Ortiz, who swept all before him on the Web.com Tour to earn Player of the Year honours, will join a cast of international stars who

Federer pulls out of ATP Finals with back injury Samuel Petrequin London (AP) - In a potential blow to Switzerland’s Davis Cup ambitions, Roger Federer pulled out of the ATP Finals less than one hour before his title match against Novak Djokovic last Sunday, handing a third straight title at the year-end event to the topranked Serb.

The 17-time Grand Slam champion said he hurt his back in the nearly threehour semifinal win over Davis Cup teammate Stan Wawrinka on Saturday night in which Federer saved four match points.

“Unfortunately I’m not match fit,” the 33-year-old Swiss told the crowd at the O2 Arena. “I tried everything I could last night, also today: painkillers, treatment, rest, so forth, warm-up, until the very end. But I just can’t compete at this level with Novak. It would be too risky at my age to do this right now and I hope you understand.”

have already confirmed their participation at the tournament. In addition to Watson, these include defending champion Sergio Garcia, reigning US Open champion Martin Kaymer as well as past winner Lee Westwood, his Ryder Cup colleagues Victor Dubuisson and Jamie Donaldson plus South African legend Ernie Els. Twenty-seven-year-old Hadley, who won his first PGA Tour event at the Puerto Rico Open in March on his way to finishing in 49th in

the FedEx Cup Playoffs, and Ortiz, 23, who earned three tournament victories to automatically graduate to the PGA Tour, have some experience of playing in Southeast Asia’s tropical climate having competed at the CIMB Classic in Malaysia.

That outing has whetted the pair’s appetite for golf in the region and both are aiming for a strong first appearance at Amata Spring.

“You only have to look at the quality of field for the Thailand Golf Championship

Weekend tennis tournament to raise money for charity Serbia’s Novak Djokovic holds up the trophy of the ATP World Tour Finals tennis after a walkover victory against Roger Federer in London, Sunday, Nov. 16. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth) and in 2012 in Doha.

Following back problems that ruined his 2013 season, Federer enjoyed a superb resurgence this season, losing to Djokovic in an epic Wimbledon final and adding five new titles to his collection.

“I think you have some recurrent things coming back from time to time,” the second-ranked Federer said.

Switzerland’s Roger Federer was forced to withdraw from a tournament for just the third time in his professional career. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland) Fans appeared to be supportive with applause for Federer when he spoke.

It was only the third time in Federer’s career that he withdrew, each time due to a back injury, following walkovers in 2008 at the Paris Masters

Two-time U.S. Master champion Bubba Watson.

to see how important playing in Asia has become,” said Hadley, who at six-footfour cuts a distinctive figure on the course. “I’ve heard so much about the tournament and Thailand as a whole that I’m really looking forward to competing. It would be awesome to end the year with a win.”

Ortiz, who hails from Guadalajara, Mexico and grew up playing the same course as LPGA legend Lorena Ochoa, is equally effusive about making the trip to Thailand.

“Golf has really become a global game and I’m excited about the opportunity of showing the Thai fans what I’m capable of,” said Ortiz, who won the Panama Claro Championship, the El Bosque Mexico Championship and the WinCo Foods Portland Open presented by Kraft in a stunning first season as a pro. “To play alongside Major champions, Ryder Cup players and the best golfers in Asia is going to be a truly great experience and will help my development as a professional.”

“It’s not that much of a surprise. I must say I’ve been feeling really good for over a year now, which has been not a surprise, but it’s been very nice. So this back spasm, whatever it might be, it’s just not a fun thing to

have during the day. It’s just uncomfortable. But I’m positive and I’m hopeful that it’s going to go away very soon.”

Djokovic became the first player since Ivan Lendl from 1985-87 to win the year-end event three times in a row but was not in the mood for celebrations.

“You never like to win, especially these big matches against big rivals, with the retirement,” said the fourtime champion.

Unbeaten on indoor courts in more than two years, Djokovic finished the season No. 1 for the third time in four years, becoming the seventh man to accomplish the feat at least three times.

Besides winning his seventh Grand Slam title at the All England Club, Djokovic was also runner-up at the French Open, and won six titles.

“Right now I’m at the pinnacle of my career,” he said, adding that winning at Roland Garros would be one of his main goals in future years. “I physically feel very fit. As long as it is like that, I’m going to use these years in front of me to fight for No. 1 of the world and the biggest titles in the sport.”

Tennis players and organizers pose for a group photo following the conclusion of the mini tennis tournament at Paradise Villas 1 in Pattaya on Thursday, November 13. The next event in the series will take place this weekend, Nov. 22-23 at Jomtien Condotel and Village.

Urasin Khantaraphan Local tennis plays will hit the courts this weekend to raise money for charity at the Tennis Friendship Pattaya “mini tennis” event in Jomtien.

The Nov. 22-23 tournament at the Jomtien Condotel and Village is the second organized this month by TFP, which was founded in 2009

by Urasin Kantarapat with the support of the Pattaya Tennis Association and local players from various clubs.

About 30 players took part in the “mini tennis” charity event Nov. 13 at Paradise Villas 1 on Soi ThungklomTanman near Sukhumvit Soi 89. Urasin organized the match with Paradise Villas

chairman Sheldon Shaeffer, former director of UNSECO’s Asia and Pacific Regional Bureau for Education.

The charity fundraising will continue Dec. 5-7 in Bangkok at the Gay & Lesbian Tennis Alliance’s Bangkok Pride tournament at Chulalongkorn University.

Money from ticket sales and donations go to the Father Ray Foundation, Prabartnumpu Temple Foundation for HIV victims, and to provide clothing and necessities for people in Thailand’s troubled south and along the Cambodia border.

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Junior soccer stars shine at ‘Football for Future 2014’ tourney Surasak Huasoon

One lucky spectator went home with a signed shirt from AC Monaco star Dimitar Berbatov.

The Father Ray Foundation and Perfume House, in cooperation with Pattaya City and Nongprue Municipality held a one day football tournament titled “Football for Future 2014”, at the Planet Football facility on Siam Country Club Road, Pattaya on Sunday, November 9, with the aim being to raise funds for the Foundation.

Youngsters competed in three different age categories, 9 years old, 11 years old and 13 years old and play went on throughout the day from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. to find out which teams would be crowned champions.

In the youngest category, the Darasamut School Sriracha defended the title they won last year by defeating Sabaidee FC in the final while host team Planet Football came in third. Sabaidee FC, went one better in the 11 years age group, beating Planet Football in the title match while defending champs Chonburi FC had to settle for third place on this occasion.

Chonburi had the consolation however of winning the 13 years category, besting FC Planet in the final while Assumption Sriracha School took third spot on the podium.

Trophies and awards were presented by Nongprue Municipality Mai Chaiyanit, Rattanachai Suthidechanai, President of Commission of Tourism and Sports, Pattaya Council, Father Dr. Pichan Jaisayree, Vice President of the Father Ray Foundation, and William Macey, Charity

Sabaidee FC players hoist the trophy after winning the 11 years age group category.

Chairman of the Pattaya Sports Club.

There was also a fund raising draw held post tournament with prizes that included signed football shirts from stars such as

Dimitar Berbatov of Monaco, Mathieu Bodmer from OGC Nice, Victor Hugo Montano from Montpellier and top footballers from FC Chonburi including Pipob Onmai and Terdsak Jaiman.

Darasamut School from Sriracha successfully defended their 9 year age group title.

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