Pattaya Mail - FRIDAY JUNE 8 - JUNE 14, 2018 (Vol. XXVI No. 23) by Pattaya Mail Media Group

Established in 1993

VOL.XXVI No. 23

Pattayaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First English Language Newspaper

FRIDAY JUNE 8 - JUNE 14, 2018

25th Year

30 BAHT

South Pattaya canal problems continue Work to widen the canal is making matters worse

The latest work to ease flooding by widening the South Pattaya canal is currently making the problem worse. Instead of making improvements to the canal, both sides have been lined with concrete pilings, and contractors have filled in the canal with sand and mud so they could drive their heavy machinery over it. The construction has caused flooding in the homes of nearby residents since last March. (Full story on page 6.)

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Nongprue is ready for rain

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3 billion baht needed to solve flood problems

The rainy season is staring us in the face, but Nongprue Mayor Mai Chaiyanit (2nd left) says he is ready.

Warapun Jaikusol The rainy season is staring us in the face, but Nongprue Mayor Mai Chaiyanit says he is ready. Mayor Mai said 90% of ongoing construction projects are completed as of May 31, and the rest will be finished by 2019. Last year, he said, many of the projects were still underway causing the area to suffer heavier than normal flooding. This year, he says, that won’t be the case. Finished projects include

canal clearance along the railway road near Moo 11 and 12 to make sure the water flows into Naklua Canal without backing up. Rubbish, tree branches and mud has been, or is being, dug up and removed to help facilitate water flow and prevent floods. Pattaya City Council has been removing buildings and facilities encroaching all local canals as well. Almost completed are construction projects in Baan Lang, Baan Nongsamoh and Raiwanasin Market. A new

drainage tunnel is being worked on at Prapanimit Road, and the original tunnels are being replaced. Pumps have been installed around the construction area to drain the floods away while the contractors carry on with their work. The Meteorological Department announced the official rainy season is here and we should expect heavy rain storms in the near future throughout Thailand, continuing until the end of October.

Walking Street next in line for cable-burying project Jetsada Homklin Once work is done burying cables on Pattaya North Road, the project will move south and begin burying utility lines along Walking Street. No date has been set to begin construction, but once started officials estimate 90days for completion. Plans are to start sometime before the end of the year. Contractors have yet to be hired as well. Mayor Anan Charoenchasri and Pattaya Electricity Authority GM Niruth Charoenchob held a meeting May 30 to solicit opinions from owners of Walking Street businesses as to how to do the construction with the least amount of disruption to Pattaya’s busiest and most famous tourist attraction. Current surveys showed how, due to limited space, it might be best to fence off and work on smaller areas,

Deputy Mayor Apichart Virapal (back, center) chairs a meeting to hear proposals for designing flood prevention systems in Pattaya. Representatives from the Water Development Co., Ltd., predict an initial budget of 3.411 billion baht would be required to do the job right.

Jetsada Homklin Having experimented with copy and paste solutions to the flooding problems in Pattaya for the past 40 years, the city fathers have now decided to open up to recommendations and advice from flood prevention experts. Deputy Mayor Apichart Virapal chaired the June 1 meeting of members of the city council and heads of governmental departments to hear proposals for Project Phase I: Suitability studies, surveys, and designing flood prevention systems in Pattaya City.

Also, in attendance was Chukiet Subpaisan, Project Manager of the Water Development Co., Ltd., hired by Pattaya City to assist in the planning of this massive undertaking. Chukiet said drains in Pattaya were too small and therefore water could not flow through them fast enough, thus causing floods. He also said that the original sewer blocks were too small. He made some conjectural suggestions which included building a large drainage tunnel under Sukhumvit Road running to the sea and

replacing the sewer blocks with larger ones. He also noted that whatever solutions were decided on, they must not be detrimental to the community and cause damage to the environment, and must be integrated with waste water management. The initial budget required would be 3.411 billion baht. The Water Development Co., Ltd., will next meet with Department of Local Public Works and Town & Country Planning to discuss the plan before taking the project proposal to the next phase.

Sukhawadee access road blocked as encroachment demolition continues

Once work is done burying cables on Pattaya North Road, the project will move south and begin burying utility lines along Walking Street. 30-50 meters at a time instead of the 100-200 meters at a time along North Pattaya Road. Heavy machinery will be active during the day, 7 days a week, but will be put away at night. Barriers will be left around the construction sites with enough lighting and enough space for

people to walk around. Autos and delivery vehicles will be detoured during construction. PEA has invited people to submit concerns via letters to city hall. A further meeting will be held before construction begins. No date has been set for the meeting.

Pattaya has sealed off a waterfront access road adjoining the Baan Sukhawadee tourist attraction as repairs are made to fix damage caused by tour buses.

Boonlua Chatree Pattaya has sealed off a waterfront access road

adjoining the Baan Sukhawadee tourist attraction as repairs are made to fix damage caused by tour buses. Engineering Department inspector Maruth Uthaiwattananon had a fence erected at the openings of the Kratinglai waterfront road, which had been zoned a public walkway and access road, but had been taken over by huge coaches, massively damaging the road surface. The blockade will remain until workers repair and resurface the road. After that, only motorbikes and passenger cars will be allowed. The roadworks are only pa r t o f t h e e x t e n s ive

deconstruction being done at the ostentatious mansion on Sukhumvit Road owned by the head of poultry giant Saha Farms. In January, 11 of Sukhawadee House’s 80 rai of land were deemed to be public land, including landfill reclaimed from the sea. The land included gardens and salas and was encircled by a fence. A wall, now being removed, also blocked access to Banglamung Soi 8. In February, Saha head Panya Chotitawan agreed to demolition of all the infringing structures, which constituted 13 percent of his tourist attraction.

Read more news at pattayamail.com

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Food waste causes big stink

Seminar teaches students to say no

Pol. Maj. Gen. Kornchai Klaiklueng, commander of Thailand’s Human Trafficking Suppression Division, talks about the recent shift in society’s mores and the effect social media is having on youths.

Boonlua Chatree Unknown people have been haphazardly dumping garbage of all sorts in the area of Soi Kasetsin 5, Khao Pratamnak, making life miserable for local residents and garbage collectors.

Keng Na Songkhla Residents living in the area of Soi Kasetsin 5, Khao Pratamnak complained to the media May 31, about foul-smelling garbage being dumped by the roadside in their community. They said that there were many empty plots of land in their neighborhood with only barbed wire fences surrounding them.

Unknown people were haphazardly dumping garbage of all sorts over the fence, not caring that most of it was spilled onto the road. Most of the offensive garbage was rotten scraps of food stuffed into plastic bags which burst open, spattering the contents out onto the road causing quite a stink. Garbage collectors also complained that it was very difficult to gather the broken

garbage bags which had their contents strewn all over the place. Residents guessed that nearby restaurants were sneaking into the area in the dead of night and dumping their food garbage there. They called on the authorities at city hall to seriously look into the matter and put a stop to these inconsiderate people who are breaking the law and causing the general public to suffer.

Cracks appear in new Bali Hai Pier floor Boonlua Chatree Was it planned obsolescence? Shoddy workmanship? Or just poor luck? The 800 million baht Bali Hai Pier development is already showing cracks, just seven months after it was completed. The area, once a sloppy parking lot for trailered boats, was refurbished last year as a showpiece for the November 2017 International Fleet Review. A close inspection June 1 showed the beautiful new pavements have begun to crack under the heat of the sun. Gone are the cameras and the limelight, gone are the top naval officials from all those important countries, what’s left are the thousands of tourists pouring through the area every day on their way to Koh Larn and back again.

The 800 million baht Bali Hai Pier development is already showing cracks, just seven months after it was completed. Day to day wear and tear seems to be taking its toll. City hall has been notified, but so far, no repairs have been forthcoming.

Kratinglai Canal cleared Warapun Jaikusol Nong Plalai workers cleaned the Kratinglai Canal to mitigate flooding during rainy season. A 10-man crew used heavy machinery to clear tree branches, rubbish and mud from the waterway following complaints from neighboring residents that storm runoff was not draining as quickly as in the past. Workers began in Moo 7 village and planned to continue down the canal over following days.

Nong Plalai workers clean out the Kratinglai Canal to mitigate flooding during rainy season.

Students were taught how to say no to sex during an ATPD seminar to help reduce human trafficking and youth prostitution. As many as 200 students, teachers, representatives from child protection centers and social security officials attended the May 30 AntiTrafficking in Persons Division’s “18 Don’ts Seminar” at the D’Varee Hotel in Jomtien. Pol. Maj. Gen. Kornchai Klaiklueng, commander of Thailand’s Human Trafficking

Suppression Division, chaired the seminar and talked about the recent shift in society’s mores and the effect social media is having on youths. Kornchai said social media makes human trafficking harder to detect. Society has changed as well, as young people tend to splurge on brand name products instead of saving. They fall into debt and are lured into prostitution and selling drugs by promises of easy money and getting rich quick. He said pregnancy rates of women under 18 is on the rise, which he

also blames on social media. The seminar was part of a nation-wide attempt to reduce these threats through establishing projects, holding seminars, and training social workers and authorities. Students were taught to say no, avoid conversations with strangers, and how to react when invited or persuaded, how to distance themselves from potential risks and to reduce their time on social media. The aim is to refocus their attention on sports and recreational activities.

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Nigerian gang busted for Facebook ‘Romance Scam’

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4 suspects arrested in crime sweep

Boonlua Chatree Two Nigerians have been arrested for running an online ‘Romance Scam’ on Facebook. Ositadima Ibeh, 28, and Chinedu Calistus Ndubuisi, 30, were remanded in custody May 28 to face charges of breaking Thailand’s computer crime laws. The two were caught with forged letters, fake videos involving the US military and fake recorded tapes of conversations with the US military, and had several bank accounts, credit and debit cards. Police learned of the scam through one of their victims, Wilaiwan Pongkwapol. After

Ositadima Ibeh and Chinedu Calistus Ndubuisi are brought in to face charges of breaking Thailand’s computer crime laws. she reported the crime, police were able to track down the perpetrators through ATM security camera footage.

When arrested, the two men were in possession of over 1 million baht scammed from victims.

Wanted German man arrested at immigration Boonlua Chatree An elderly German man, allegedly wanted on a six-year-old arrest warrant, was detained when visiting Chonburi Immigration to extend his visa. Theodor Wilhelm Jasper, 74, was wanted for fraud and defamation of others in public or advertising. No further details or explanation of the charges were revealed. Immigration officers discovered the outstanding warrant May 31 when the German attempted to extend his visa. An additional charge of evading authorities was added. He was transferred to the Pattaya Police to be dealt with accordingly.

Pol. Col. Chidecha Songhong, Superintendent of Nongprue Police, announces four male suspects were arrested last week during a police crime sweep through the area. Komsan “Net” Songnok, Pol. Col. Chidecha SongTeerarak Suthathiwong 23, and Teerapong “Ying” hong, Superintendent of Four male suspects were ar- Athiya, 26, were accomplices Nongprue Police, with Pol. rested last week during a police in the theft of cooking gas Lt. Col. Nattakorn Mongcrime sweep through the area. tanks, microwaves and a kolmaha and Pol. Maj. Wiriya “Wechsub”, 31, was lawn mower. They admitted Kengsart Nuanpong ancharged with purse snatching. to having committed these nounced the arrests at a For his criminal acts he used crimes regularly in the June 1 press conference. Chidecha said police will a motorbike with the license Banglamung area. S a r a n “ R a m ” P o o n p a t continue efforts to prevent plate distorted to avoid recognition. He was also in pos- was caught with a 7.65 mm crimes against the citizens of session of a mobile phone and Thaipradith revolver and Banglamung, and punish 0.38 grams of ya ice. criminals who do commit them. illegal drugs.

Three transgenders fined for public nudity Theodor Wilhelm Jasper, allegedly wanted on a six-year-old arrest warrant, was detained when visiting Chonburi Immigration to extend his visa.

Tense moments when van catches fire near South Pattaya gas station Teerarak Suthathiwong There were a few tense moments when a passenger van caught fire near the Caltex Gas Station on Sukhumvit Road in South Pattaya. Staff told authorities they could smell smoke after the van came into the station and parked, so they asked the driver to move the vehicle away from the station. The front of the van burst into flames shortly after. The driver, Natechai Nummat, 29, said he had picked up tourists and parked to rest. Luckily all the passengers were evacuated in time and nobody was injured. Municipality Police and Sawang Boriboon rescue

There were a few tense moments when a passenger van caught fire near the Caltex Gas Station on Sukhumvit Road in South Pattaya. workers were able to extinguish the fire within a few minutes after they arrived.

The source of the fire was traced back to the battery. No damage estimate was given.

Three transgenders have been fined for public nudity after a video surfaced of them exposing themselves to Chinese tourists. on social media. They said they asked the Teerarak Suthathiwong They claimed the video tourists not to take any phoThree transgenders have was not new, that it was tos or video when asked to been fined for public nudity taken in 2014 when they give them a ‘better look’, but after a video surfaced of were paid 4,000 baht each to got caught up in the mothem exposing themselves to perform in a private room for ment when the Chinese 10 Chinese tourists. were giving them 500 Yuan Chinese tourists. They said they were ap- tips (about 2500 Thai baht). Kanitsorn Toonjit, 31, The three were charged Nopadol Jowan, 31, and proached on Walking Street Samthib Naimoo, 33, were by a transgender tour guide 5,000 baht each and apolobrought in for questioning for a group of Chinese tourists, gized to the public for their after the video went viral who invited them to a party. behavior.

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Free medical care for community pets

Chonburi organizes seminar to create a safe society

Marbpradu pets are given free medical care during the recent Public Health mobile veterinarian clinic.

Jetsada Homklin Marbpradu pets were given free veterinary care during a recent Public Health outreach clinic. The mobile unit from the Disease Control Section of Pattaya City Public Health Office set up a veterinarian clinic at the Marbpradu community in Khao Talo Soi 3 May 30, where they gave

rabies vaccines, anti-flea treatment, birth control injections, spaying and other medical treatment free of charge to a variety of pets and animals residing in the area. Pet owners were also given advice on how to care for their loved ones especially as it is now the hot and rainy season and the animals need special attention. Advice included giving pets plenty of

water to drink to lower their body temperatures, and ensuring that they have a shady spot to lie and to bathe them at least once a week. These mobile units are providing regular veterinary services in the communities around Pattaya, free of charge. For more information, please call 038-25 3259 or Pattaya city call center 1337.

HM the King honored on National Tree Day Patcharapol Panrak To commemorate National Tree Day, Capt. Sarawuth Chawana, Commander of the 2nd Antiaircraft Artillery Regiment, Air and Coastal Defense Command led his troops in planting 40 Yellow Star trees, the official tree of His Majesty King Rama X on the grounds of the military command. Capt. Sarawuth said the tree planting exercise served 3 purposes. One, to create awareness and understand the balance of nature so as to maintain our forest resources for sustainable use in the future. Two, to raise awareness and promote participation

Capt. Sarawuth Chawana (foreground) leads his troops in planting 40 Yellow Star trees, the official tree of His Majesty King Rama X, on National Tree Day. among naval forces in the and pledge loyalty to HM conservation of forest re- King Maha Vajiralongkorn sources. And three, most Bodindradebayavarangkun, important of all to honor King Rama X.

Pattaya man, 97, on roll again thanks to new wheelchair Jetsada Homklin An elderly man who hasn’t been able to walk for four years is mobile again thanks to a wheelchair donated by medical-rescue volunteers. Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation members Warunee Sriuyaem, Prapan Chaikaew and Tonchai Rienpricha presented the wheelchair to 97-year-old Ying Kruhatapan at his Soi Tungklom-Tanman 6 home May 25. The wheelchair is one of several the foundation has for people in need. The donation was made after volunteers learned of Ying’s long immobility and the fact he and his 72-year-old wife couldn’t afford

97-year-old Ying Kruhatapan, who hasn’t been able to walk for four years, is mobile again thanks to a wheelchair donated by Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation volunteers. to buy a chair for him. The foundation has purchased several chairs and

will be donating them to Pattaya-area residents in need.

Emergency personnel in Chonburi were given readiness training in firefighting techniques, first aid and caring for the injured. Emergency personnel in Chonburi were given readiness training in firefighting techniques, first aid and caring for the injured to enable them to better handle disasters and other life-threatening situations. Chonburi Governor Pakarathorn Thienchai chaired the opening ceremony of ‘Unifying emergency and rescue units and strengthening citizens to create a safe society in Chonburi’ May 30. The seminar was organized by the Chonburi Provincial Administration Organization in cooperation with the office

of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation of Chonburi province. Activities included presentations on the readiness of local administration organizations, foundations, and other civilian groups in their readiness in both manpower and equipment to handle emergency situations in disasters and other life-threatening incidents. Lectures were given on the

use of communications by radio or other forms of signals. Firefighting techniques, first aid and caring for the injured were also demonstrated for the participants. Chonburi Governor Pakarathorn said that these learning exercises create an understanding amongst the various public and private organizations to work effectively in unison when the need arises. (CPRD)

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VOL. XXVI No. 23

South Pattaya canal problems continue Volunteers trained in emergency

medical treatment

Work to widen the canal is making matters worse Boonlua Chatree Residents in South Pattaya are complaining construction work along the canal meant to ease local flooding has had the opposite effect. Metakrit Sunthornrot, chairman of Walking Street Community on June 1 led the Pattaya media to the site of the South Pattaya canal rejuvenation project to give them a firsthand look at the progress and inconveniences caused by the contractors hired to widen the canal and improve the landscape. Instead of seeing improvements to the canal, reporters saw that both sides of the canal were lined with concrete pilings, which according to plan is going to be a walkway. The canal was full of sand and mud which was filled in by the contractors so they could drive their heavy machinery of large cranes and backhoes through it during the construction process. Metakrit said that they had campaigned vigorously for the city to demolish the buildings that encroached on the canal, but now what they see is that the contractors have narrowed the width of the canal even more by their pilings. Furthermore, the sand and mud in the canal has caused flooding in the homes of nearby residents since last March. Sompop Wandee, acting director of the Office of Sanitary Engineering of Pattaya City, along with his team were on site June 1 to inspect the situation and listen to

Metakrit Sunthornrot, chairman of Walking Street Community, shows Pattaya media how the South Pattaya canal construction, meant to ease local flooding, has had the opposite effect. residents’ complaints. On seeing what had transpired, he immediately ordered the contractor to remove the sand and earth from the canal and clear the waterway. He went on to say that the South Pattaya canal has a long history of problems regarding the water flow. In 2015 it was determined buildings that infringed over the canal reduced it to 1-2 meters in width and only 4-6 meters in depth. Subsequent demolition of the buildings widened the canal by 15-20 meters and made it 5-10 meters deeper. As part of the beautification of the canal the plan was to build a recreation area along the canal for people in downtown Pattaya to enjoy. He said in 2017 a budget of 58 million baht was allocated for the building of a footpath along the canal and for the HDPE drainage system. This system separates the waste water from the people’s

homes from the dirty water from public drains. The water treatment system was also planned in such a way that water gates would separate the clean water from the sludgy drainage water, so only clean water would be allowed to flow into the sea. Plus, by digging the canal deeper, it would also help eliminate the flooding problems. Sompop said he regretted the inconvenience but assured everyone that the project will be completed in 1-2 months’ time. As for the incessant flooding in front of the Camelot Hotel in South Pattaya, the director explained that water from Pratamnak Hill flows down through a drainage system which is only 80 cm in diameter. Pattaya City is in the process of designing a bigger and better system to direct the flow of water into the canal. The next step, he said, was for the city to ask for a budget to get the job done.

Sudden power cut leaves 4 stuck in condo elevator Patcharapol Panrak It was an unlucky return home for four Najomtien residents, including a 4-year-old child, when a power outage caused the elevator they were riding in to stop working between the 4th and 5th floors of their condo building. Ninrath Tithipathammanan, 29, told police he and three others were headed to the 5th floor of the 13-floor building around midnight May 28 when the elevator stopped. They waited, thinking it would start up again, but then the lights went out. They tried to call for help, but there was no cell phone signal, so they pushed the emergency button and waited. Sawang Boriboon rescue workers managed to free them an hour later. They were

They can look back and laugh about it now, but it wasn’t much fun when they were trapped inside their broken elevator. exhausted due to the heat, but were otherwise unharmed. For safety reasons, they were taken to the hospital.

PATTAYA MAIL PUBLISHING CO., LTD. 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 Director-Business Development Suwanthep Malhotra e-mail: tony@pattayamail.com Editor Nopniwat Krailerg e-mail: editor@pattayamail.com Sports Editor Martin Bilsborrow e-mail: martin@pattayamail.com Executive Editor-Pattaya Blatt Elfi Seitz e-mail: elfi@pattayablatt.com Director of Communications Supa Kukarja e-mail: sue@pattayamail.com Senior Special Correspondent Peter Cummins e-mail: npetercummins@hotmail.com Newsroom Manager Marcus Souksi e-mail: marcus@pattayamail.com Advertising Department Nutsara Duangsri e-mail: nutsara@pattayamail.com News Department: Boonlua Chatree, Jetsada Homklin, Urasin Khantaraphan, Patcharapol Panrak, Tanachot Anuwan, Theerarak Suthathiwong © Copyright Pattaya Mail Publishing Co., Ltd. (e-mail: newsdesk@pattayamail.com)

Community emergency volunteers are taught how to save lives through quick response and using proper methods in case of emergencies.

Warapun Jaikusol Banglamung Public Health Section in cooperation with Banglamung Hospital held a training session for community emergency volunteers to learn how to save lives through quick response and using proper methods in

case of emergencies, outside or in the homes. Under the auspices of the National Institute for Emergency Medicine, participants learned about giving first aid in case of accidents, heart attacks, cerebrovascular disease and diabetes whereby the patient must get medical

attention immediately before being moved to the hospital. To this end the institute enlists volunteers all over the country and trains them to be first responders. Qualified volunteers are urged to call 1699 for advice and guidance when confronted with any emergencies.

School children rushed to hospital after lunch Boonlua Chatree Children studying at the Wat Nongkedyai School were rushed to Banglamung hospital June 1, suspected of having contracted food poisoning. The incident occurred on June 1 when 70 students studying in grade 4-6 became nauseous and vomited after having had their lunch. On hearing of the incident Naris Niramaiwong, Banglamung District Chief contacted rescue units from the Nong Plalai Municipality, Sawang Boriboon Foundation and the Administration Section to send ten rescue vehicles to transport the children to the hospital. The scene at the hospital was hectic, children were crying and getting sick and there were not enough beds to accommodate all the kids. The district chief asked the foundation for help in looking after the unfortunate children. Doctors treated the children with saline solution and gave them injections to stop their nausea and vomiting.

Seventy children studying at the Wat Nongkedyai School were rushed to Banglamung hospital June 1, suspected of having contracted food poisoning. Fortunately, none of the children were in serious trouble and were later taken home by their parents and guardians. School Director Noppawan Konsua said the School has 669 students studying in Kindergarten 1 up to Mathayom 3. Lunches are cooked by school cooks and some of the teachers. Usually the parents provide the raw food and vegetables. On that day, the school cooked vegetarian food consisting of mushroom soup and boiled

egg salad. In the afternoon students in grade 4-6 felt nauseous and vomited. Teachers tried to cure them with first aid, but when they didn’t help, they called the Banglamung Hospital for assistance. Naris ordered the medical staff to keep a close watch on the condition of the children and at the same time ordered the Banglamung Public Health Section to analyze the food and raw materials to determine the cause.

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AFG takes a peek at the future – and is given a sign? Dr. Iain Corness The very active Automotive Focus Group (AFG) held their May meeting at the Intercontinental Pattaya Resort, providing a stunning buffet taken banquet style on their own beach, while overlooking the Bay of Siam after taking in an amazing sunset. The main theme of the evening was “Thailand State of the Kingdom” with speaker Dennis Meseroll, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Tractus Asia, an American-managed, Asia-based FDI consultancy providing assistance to both private and public sectors. Dennis, who has been Thailand

based for the past 27 years, covered Politics, Economics and the State of Business. (Dennis Meseroll and Tractus have advised on more than US$5 billion in trade and investment across a wide variety of sectors.) Tractus scrutinizes all aspects of business in coming to their decisions and has turned up some interesting (and thought provoking) figures, citing the annual consumption of the Red Bull energy drink is three gallons (11 liters) per person per annum in Thailand (and that should really get the place jumping – Dr. Iain). Mention was made of “Challenger” companies Charoen Pokphand, Indorama Ventures,

PTT, ThaiBev, and the Thai Union Group who are investing in overseas economies, as opposed to Thailand’s push for direct foreign investment into Thailand. Growth was seen in the Service industry, going strong at 15 percent, followed by the Manufacturing sector at 3 percent, while Agriculture was negative 1.3 percent. One positive factor in the Thai economy was the ease of doing business here compared to other ASEAN countries, but a negative was in English language capability, where Thailand was lagging behind most of its neighbors. This was a reflection of the Thai education system.

ONESDB stresses Thailand 4.0 and STEM development Jetsada Homklin Officials from the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Board (ONESDB) told local officials and tourism entrepreneurs to make sure they grasp and use Thailand 4.0 standards as a guideline for future development. They also stressed Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education for their employees. A couple dozen participants from local businesses and government officials took part in the May 29-31 meeting held at the Bay View Hotel. ONESDB representative Ittipong Hiranruengchoke said the board was particularly interested in tourism and logistics in Chonburi in

Officials from the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Board (ONESDB) told local officials and tourism entrepreneurs to make sure they grasp and use Thailand 4.0 standards as a guideline for future development. general, and Pattaya in particular. He said the board plans to take unspecified surveys in the area, the results of which will be used to make plans for tourism development. “With proper qualifications,

employees should be able to take advantage of the new era of technology and develop communication skills so that Thai employees can grow into the future and help Thailand meet 4.0 standards,” Ittipong said.

Rojana Laem Chabang Industrial Park to be established in Chonburi A new industrial park will be established in Chonburi province as part of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) and Rojana Industrial Park Public Co., Ltd. have signed an agreement to build the 843-rai “Rojana Laem Chabang Industrial Park” in the eastern city of Chonburi in preparation for the development of the S-Curve; 10 targeted industries which are next-generation automotive, intelligent electronics, tourism for high-income tourists and medical tourism, advanced agriculture and biotechnology, food processing, advanced robotics industry, logistics and aviation, biofuels and biochemical, digital, and holistic medical and health services. Deputy IEAT Governor Suwatana Kmolwatananisa said the new park is part of the EEC development

The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) and Rojana Industrial Park Public Co., Ltd. have signed an agreement to build a new industrial park in Chonburi province as part of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). project straddling three eastern provinces – Chonburi, Rayong, and Chachoengsao – along the coastline of the Gulf of Thailand and encompassing more than 12,000 rai. Expected to be complete by

2021, the EEC project will turn these provinces into a hub for technological manufacturing and services with strong connectivity to its ASEAN neighbors by land, sea and air. (NNT)

Andre van Straten.

Dennis Meseroll.

According to the Net Education Enrollment Rate / Program for International Student Assessment, Thailand is 9th in ASEAN for primary education; 6th in ASEAN for secondary and 4th for tertiary education enrollment. Politics? Always a vexed question, and who would be the next PM? According to an opinion survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA Poll), the top four most popular choices for the next Prime Minister are current Prime Minister Prayut, Sudarat of Pheu Thai Party, Abhisit of Democrat Party, and Thanathorn founder of the new Future Forward Party. Thanathorn is an interesting newcomer - Thailand’s answer to Justin Trudeau. He’s

the former vice chairman of Thai Summit Group with a clear intention to promote a non-military, participatory democracy. The current constitution has the parliament structured with: – 250 military-appointed Senators – 500 directly elected MPs While it is highly unlikely that the Democrats would side with the Pheu Thai party, stranger things have happened in Thai politics over the years. The weaknesses in the Thai model are: • Rising labor costs • Low productivity • High personal debt • High export dependence • Talent shortages • Demographic turning point

However, despite this, Thailand was still a good place for business, and if the system could produce more skilled labor quickly it would continue to go ahead. The AFG members then were treated to a surprise speaker, Andre van Straten, the Counsellor, Political and Economic Affairs in the South African Embassy. If Dennis’ figures were disappointing, Andre presented a snapshot of the promised land, South Africa. Andre pointed out for example, that SA was home to 55 car brands and was export oriented. Currently, there are 54 countries in the continent of Africa. This includes all internationally recognized territories and states on the African continent. Sales opportunities perhaps? With freight travel now becoming faster, easier and less expensive, he suggested that businesses in Thailand should look to SA as a new destination. If Thailand is progressing slowly, SA was going into overdrive! It had been a good night, both from information and networking aspects with many business card changing hands. Connection can be made by email to the AFG secretary Carey.Peck@dhl.com

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PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVI No. 23

What’s better than two legs? Three legs!

Do you use a tripod? Do you even have a tripod? A tripod is the most underused item in photography, but has the ability to widen the scope of your picture taking. However, a tripod can do much more than just enhance your shots. This three legged device will open up completely new avenues in photography and let you produce new and different images that are otherwise way beyond your reach. So what can you do with this tripod that you can’t do without? The first and most obvious is time exposure shots. The whole secret of

time exposure is to keep the camera still, and you won’t do that by holding your breath, leaning against a tree and gripping the camera tightly, let me assure you. As much as you try. Unless you are good for holding your breath for several minutes while standing perfectly still. Twilight photography and night photography opens up a whole new range of pictures and effects. Just the simple expedient of being able to keep the camera steady while you shoot 30 seconds or longer exposures will result in some great photographs. Ansel Adams knew this 80 years ago. Try taking a shot just after sunset, for example. Set the camera on f11 and give it 30 seconds. You will be very pleased with the results. Did you know that the very best landscapes during daylight hours are also best taken on a tripod? To get the huge

Dear Hillary, Every time my husband goes out with me, to dinner or even to a pub, he drinks too much. This would not be too bad if he did this quietly, but he is a most aggressive drunk and picks fights with people all the time. Some pubs have even barred him which leads to even more brawling. Even that would be tolerable if he knew how to fight, but he just brawls in a drunken manner and always comes off second best. To be honest, Hillary, he is hard enough to put up with when he is sober, but in his cups he is dreadful. It really is a case where you can only take him anywhere twice - the second time to apologize. This is doubly difficult for me as I do not drink alcohol, mainly because someone has to be sober enough to drive the car home, especially now the police have the roadside checking machines. What suggestions have you got, Hillary? There must be something I can do, surely. This problem has been going for five years. Amanda Dear Amanda, This is a common problem, so there’s lots you can do, Amanda. First off you could send him to the gym for a boxing course so he could learn to defend himself a little better. Though if your man gets quite legless with the drinking, perhaps that wouldn’t work either. How strong is your relationship? You could refuse to go out with him if he is intending drinking, which sounds like all the time. You could take up drinking yourself and try beating him up. However, I think that after five years of this you should be able to take a stronger stance and tell him to shape up or

Ansel Adams. range of depth of field necessary for these shots, you will end up with slow shutter speeds. The tripod ensures there’s no blurring. Those flowing milky, misty waterfalls are also best taken with a tripod as again a slow shutter speed is required to capture that effect. Even nature shots are done best with this piece of equipment. You can set up the camera and then leave it, so that the birds, etc., can get used to its presence, and then with a

cable or remote shutter release you can get the nature photos of a lifetime. Another type of shot that needs a tripod is the panorama. A compilation of images which when placed together form a wide angle view of any scene. This can only be done exactly with the use of a tripod. Even when shooting still life images, the use of a tripod makes these shots a breeze. You can set up the shot and then make minute adjustments

ship out. Nobody has to put up with that sort of nonsense any more. Don’t you either. Does he drink beer or champagne? If it’s the latter and it is a good vintage, I might even take on his rehabilitation for you. Dear Hillary, What do you suggest should be done with what I am sure is a wandering husband? Probably because of the unending opportunities that there seems to be for the men-folk here (but none for the women it seems), it must be a temptation to wander. I have caught several of my friends’ husbands out on more than one occasion at some beer bars, and I am sure that mine is just as shameful in his leisure hours. Any idea, Hillary, on keeping up with the wanders? Wanda Dear Wander Wanda, Seriously, I think you are a little off the mark when you say you have caught these wandering husbands out at beer bars. Sitting there drinking and laughing with the staff, or in flagrante delicto? There’s a big difference, Petal. You are also wrong when you say there’s nothing for us ladies, but then perhaps the real reason for your letter was to find out where we ladies can go for laughter and libations as well. Ask the wives of the wandering husbands you follow and you will find out. What were you doing wandering around the beer bars anyway? Finally, if you’re worried about his wandering and not finding his way home, then get him a map!

while looking through the viewfinder. Again you can use a slow shutter speed to be able to use very small apertures (around f22) to get the very fine detail into the shot. So what should you look for and what should you spend? There are several items in the specifications that you should ensure is on any tripod you buy. The first is that it is heavy with strong legs when extended fully. The “locks” on the legs

must also be secure. The lightweight aluminium ones are generally useless, especially outdoors, where even a slight breeze makes it unstable. Another item is that the actual swivel head incorporates a spirit level, so that you can ensure the top swivels in a true horizontal arc. The tripod head should also have calibrations, so you can swing it a definite number of degrees. A removable “shoe” is also a good item, as you can then position the camera on the tripod, but also remove the camera to take other shots but then replace it in exactly the same position. The legs should be able to be spread out widely so that you can get the camera very close to the ground, and finally if you can get one, see if the tripod center shaft can be removed and turned upside down, as this can get your camera completely at ground level and also immediately above an object placed on the ground. How much will this cost? Expect to spend a minimum of 6,000 baht. My own Manfrotto cost a lot more than that, let me assure you, but with now more than 30 years of faithful service, it has been a bargain!

Dear Hillary, Why is it when I sit down at a bar a girl will come up and ask me what is my name, where do I come from, whether I am here on holiday, where I am staying, whether I am married and how many children I have, and how much money do I have? This list of questions seems to be the same, no matter which bar I drink in. Do these girls go to some “Bar Girl School” or what? Surely there must be other ways of striking up conversations? Puzzled Pete Dear Puzzled Pete, What would you prefer, Pete my petal, the girl say “Khun choo arai?” You have to remember your bar room companion is having to speak to you in a foreign language. How many “set phrases” do you also speak in foreign languages, like “Khun mee Singha, Khrap?” It is the same for the girls. They pick up some set phrases and go from there, and honestly, finding out your name, marital status, job situation, location, dependents and bank account details isn’t such a bad way to look at whether the relationship has a future or otherwise, is it? Let’s not waste time - let’s find out in the first five minutes. They are only doing their job as best they can. Perhaps you are right and there should be a Bar Girl School of English and Deportment. Or perhaps you have been watching too many re-runs of My Fair Lady. Remember there are plenty of other places you can drink without company PP, if it really annoys you. Take home a bottle of Chang. Pattaya has more than a few bars, you know. Well there was last time I looked. And I almost forgot, there is a handy pocket-sized book called English for Bar Girls. Available at the next pub near you!

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Cheap air fares may cost you extra We all look for fares on low-cost airlines to carry us to our previous homelands. As ex-pats, we do tend to spend a greater number of hours cramped up in planes than the average person from our home countries. What with visa runs and trips to other SE Asian countries for business and trips back home to see the folks each year, we seem to be always listening to the hostess telling us what to do when the plane ditches in the water and we can pull the tag firmly, be inflated and float away to safety with our light blinking while blowing on our whistle. If it were only that simple! MH 370 does not fit into the items on the safety card on the back of the seat in front of you. However, even if the plane makes it safely to the destination, you may still suffer, especially if you are an avid reader of the popular pulp press from home. A new bogeyman awaits us, called the “Economy Class Syndrome”. The scenario is simple - after hours of being cramped in-flight you succumb to a clot in the veins of your legs and suffer a Deep Vein Thrombosis, which we medico’s call a DVT. This condition can wind up producing all sorts of problems, including emboli (clots) in the lungs and other wondrous conditions, some of which can kill you.

(Have I got your attention now?) Yes, you will be cramped because that is how they can offer cheaper fares. Instead of 400 passengers, you fit 450 passengers in the same space. In theory, sitting twisted in the minimal “economy class” seats can predispose to the formation of these blood clots, and tales of people having one after a plane flight are eagerly snapped up by the press. What the press doesn’t tell you is that many, many people get DVT’s who have never stepped into a plane in their lives. In fact, the highly esteemed medical publication The Lancet (first published in 1823), published a study to show that they were unable to show an increased risk amongst plane travelers, and especially those in el cheapo seats. Actually, heavy smoking is a much greater prognosticator of the risk, but the newspapers are not so keen on calling it, “The packet of Ciggies Syndrome.” Funny that. Has nothing to do with tobacco revenue, I am sure. So what can you do to minimize any risk when flying? The secret to health in the air is purely to maintain good circulation and avoid dehydration. However, that is not quite as easy to do in practice as you would imagine.

To maintain circulation to the lower legs you should get up and walk around the plane once every hour. That is the interior of the plane. Simple - but it does mean you have to clamber over a couple of people to get to the aisle if you hadn’t requested the aisle seat. Rule 1 - always ask for an aisle seat, or the seat in front of the exit where there is nobody in front of you. Dehydration is easy to fix - drink more water, but it is another difficult thing to do on planes. The fluid to drink is water of the H2O variety, not water that comes in green bottles or has been distilled. The ambient cabin humidity is much less than you experience on the ground, so you are more likely to dry out, and then there is the alcohol part of the equation - the copious amounts of booze don’t rehydrate you - they dehydrate you! Believe me. You can also wear ‘plane sox’ which put pressure on the lower legs and keeps the circulation going. That’s it in a nutshell. Water and exercise fixes the Economy Class Syndrome. Of course, you could always fly first class instead I suppose! And pay the incredible financial syndrome!

Shorter drug treatment OK for many breast cancer patients Marilynn Marchione (AP) - Many women with a common and aggressive form of breast cancer that is treated with Herceptin can get by with six months of the drug instead of the usual 12, greatly reducing the risk of heart damage it sometimes can cause, a study suggests. It’s good news, but it comes nearly two decades after the drug first went on the market and many patients have suffered that side effect. The study was done in the United Kingdom and funded by UK government grants. Results were released Wednesday by the American Society of Clinical Oncology and will be presented at the group’s meeting next month. Herceptin transformed care of a dreaded disease when it was approved in 1998 for women with advanced breast cancers whose growth is aided by a faulty HER2 gene, as 15 percent to 20 percent

of cases are. It was later approved for treatment of those cancers in earlier stages, too, based on studies that had tested it in patients for 12 months. That guess, that the drug should be taken for a year, became the standard of care. But the drug can hurt the heart’s ability to pump. That often eases if treatment is stopped but the damage can be permanent and lead to heart failure. Some studies tested shorter use, but results conflicted. The new study is the largest so far, and involved more than 4,000 women with earlystage cancers who were given usual chemotherapy plus Herceptin for either six or 12 months. After four years, about 90 percent of both groups were alive without signs of the disease. Only 4 percent on the shorter treatment dropped out due to heart problems versus 8 percent of those treated for a year.

According to a study released in May, many women with a common and aggressive form of breast cancer that is treated with Herceptin can get by with six months of the drug instead of the usual 12, greatly reducing the risk of heart damage it can cause. (F. Hoffmann-La Roche via AP)

“It’s great news” for patients, said the study leader, Dr. Helena Earl of the University of Cambridge in England. Earl has consulted for Herceptin’s maker, Roche. The company had no role in the study. “There’s no reason to not immediately change practice. The findings are persuasive,” said Dr. Richard Schilsky, chief medical officer for the oncology society. Most of Herceptin’s cancer-fighting benefit seems to come in the early months of use, he said. Others said that because so few women have died or relapsed after being treated with the drug, longer follow-up may be needed to make sure the findings hold up before guidelines should be changed. Doctors also want to see results published, and to study them to see if certain groups of women need longer treatment. Herceptin is given through an IV every three weeks; a year of it costs $34,000 to $40,000 in England and

Pattaya Hospital offering free flu vaccinations till August 31 Jetsada Homklin With the rainy season approaching, Pattaya Hospital between Soi Buakow and 3rd Road is offering free influenza vaccinations through August 31. Hospital Director Rungnapa Thapnonghee announced May 28 the hospital has 4,000 doses of the vaccine. She also said this would not be enough for everyone, so priority is being given to women who are at least 4 months pregnant, infants & children from the age of 6

Pattaya Hospital Director Rungnapa Thapnonghee (inset) announces free influenza vaccinations through August 31.

months to 2 years, chronic disease patients (all ages), and elderly residents 65 years or older, along with nurses, medics and volunteers who work in the field for prevention. Representatives of the Disease Control Division said a total of 170,000 flu cases have been recorded since January 2017 resulting in 49 deaths. People wishing to receive the vaccine should inquire at the hospital or the Disease Control Office on Pattaya Beach Road.

about $70,000 in the U.S. In December, a copycat competitor known as a biosimilar was approved in the U.S. and already is used in some other countries. Dr. Harold Burstein, a breast cancer expert at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, said shorter treatment may increase access to the drug in countries where many women can’t afford it now, but that in the U.S., “my guess is that people will continue to aim for a year of treatment” because of lingering concerns that longer use is better, as a smaller, previous study suggested. Dr. Jennifer Litton, a breast specialist at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, said Herceptin was a true breakthrough, but scaling back treatment whenever possible is just as important to patients. She said the results show how important it can be to study drugs already on the

market, and that drug companies alone should not be relied on to do studies like this. “It’s really important that we continue to have public funding for trials so we can continue to ask all of these questions for our patients,” she said. Herceptin’s developer, Genentech, now part of Roche, said in a statement that the new study must be viewed along with several smaller previous ones that found one year to be best. The goal of treatment “is to provide people with the best chance for a cure,” so women need to talk with their doctors about how best to reach that goal, the statement says. Earlier this year, the American Heart Association issued its first statement on the heart effects of cancer drugs, saying women should consider carefully the risks and benefits of any therapies that may hurt hearts.

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PATTAYA MAIL

Odds and Ends The Associated Press

Homeowner trying to kill weeds ends up burning down garage Springfield, Ohio (AP) - Authorities say a homeowner trying to kill troublesome weeds with a torch has burned down his garage. The Springfield News-Sun reports Springfield Township firefighters in central Ohio were called to a home around 4 a.m. Thursday for a detached garage engulfed in flames. No one was injured. Fire officials learned the man had been trying to eliminate weeds around the garage. They’re calling the blaze an accident. The destroyed garage held tools and appliances. Fire officials estimate the loss at between $10,000 and $15,000.

Woman finds goat head on car hood Boston (AP) - A woman woke up to find a gruesome sight on her car in the Boston neighborhood of Hyde Park. The woman found a bloody goat head on her car hood early Tuesday morning with a photo of herself tucked under the windshield wiper blades. The woman was walking her dog up Garfield Avenue around 6 a.m. and noticed the head of the animal. Police say she drove her car about half a mile to the Hyde Park branch of the Boston Police Department with the grisly scene still intact. Animal control removed the head, and officers are searching for more evidence. They are asking the public for surveillance video in the neighborhood. No suspects have been arrested.

Truck dumps 40,000 pounds of chicken feathers on highway Federal Way, Wash. (AP) - A tractor-trailer made a fowl mess when it rolled over in Washington state. It dumped about 40,000 pounds (18,145 kilograms) of chicken feathers across Interstate 5. Washington State Patrol Trooper Rick Johnson says the driver told investigators he fell asleep at about 3:30 a.m. Wednesday north of Tacoma and lost control of the truck, which hit a guardrail and overturned. The truck was hauling the feathers from a poultry facility to a rendering company in Vancouver, British Columbia. The Canadian company recycles animal byproducts into ingredients for items including pet feed and soap. The News Tribune newspaper of Tacoma reports traffic backed up for 11 miles (18 kilometers) as crews scooped up the feathers. Johnson said the driver would be cited for negligent driving.

Crossword No 1297

VOL. XXVI No. 23

Read more news at pattayamail.com

The Heritage City model, a combination of knowledge and innovation, is being used to develop historic sites around the kingdom. The Heritage City model, using a combination of knowledge and innovation, is being promoted to develop historic areas with a goal of increasing tourism by more than 10% per year. King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, a network of 11 universities, Sukhothai Province and Kampaeng Phet Province recently joined the artistic

and cultural network. They are applying a “Heritage City” model to develop areas around the World Heritage Sites and old cities, Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai and Kampaeng Phet, to become perfect World Heritage areas. The work of the “Heritage City” model, a World Heritage city model, started in cities with a World Heritage Site that have a cultural capital, namely

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EVA HEATHROW EVA AIR ELITE ECONOMY TURKISH HEATHROW/GATWICK BRITISH LON EDI MAN NCL GLA BRITISH LON EDI MAN NCL GLA FINN AIR EMIRATES AIRLINES (MAN) QATAR AIRWAYS

18000 37500 17000 13500 14000 11000 14000 11000

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It is also aimed at inducing growth in tourism while maintaining community identities and developing a safety application to maintain the city plan and safety systems. If the project is accomplished, tourism and income will increase at a rate of not less than 10% per year, the present income from tourism locations being more than 4.5 billion baht. (NNT)

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DUBLIN/GENEVA /FRANKFURT FINN AIR (GVA) FINNAIR (DUB) GULF AIR (FRA)

Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai and Kampaeng Phet. The development and integration work is being done in four respects: structural development, artistic, cultural and identity conservation, agricultural promotion and qualitative tourism promotion. The project is open to local residents to get involved in the development and application of suitable technology.

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VOL. XXVI No. 23

Folk tales

Aaron Copland rehearsing the Arts Academy Orchestra in 1967. Throughout most of human history, if anyone wanted to hear some music they’d either have to make it themselves or if they were rich enough, pay someone else to make it for them. Ordinary

people, the people who worked in the fields, the farms and the workshops had to make their own music when it was needed. When they were working, reaping or threshing, pulling loads of

timber or working on board a sailing ship, singing was a common activity. Not only did the songs reduce the boredom of repetitive tasks, they also set the pace and synchronized activities that involved teams of communal workers. Many sea shanties served exactly this purpose. In their leisure time, telling stories, singing and playing musical instruments were common forms of self-made entertainment. People played and sung songs they remembered or sometimes, made up new ones. Thousands of these songs have come down to us. Folk music has been defined in several ways: as music transmitted orally, or as music with unknown composers. It’s sometimes defined as music that has evolved by a process of oral transmission over a period of time. The word folklore was coined as recently as 1846 by the English antiquarian William Thoms who described it, rather grandly as “the traditions, customs, and superstitions of the uncultured classes”. The expression folk music didn’t appear in Europe until around the same time. Encouraged by the waves of nationalist fervour that emerged in Europe during the second half of the 19th century, some musicians began to take a serious interest in their country’s folk music. In England, during the early years of the 20 th century, Cecil Sharp listened to hundreds of village folk singers and painstakingly wrote down their songs. Zoltán

Kodály and Béla Bartók did much the same thing in Hungary as did Alan Lomax in America. At the same time, many European composers sought to develop a musical style that somehow reflected the essence of their homeland. To achieve this they inevitably turned to traditional dances and folk songs.

Béla Bartók (18811945): Romanian Folk Dances for String Orchestra. Norwegian Chamber Orchestra dir. Terje Tønnensen (Duration: 06:51; Video: 1080p HD) For a period of several years, Bartók traipsed around Eastern Europe often with his lifelong friend and colleague, the composer Zoltán Kodály. They notated Hungarian, Slovak, Romanian and Bulgarian folk music. Bartók also collected in Moldavia, Wallachia, and Algeria until the outbreak of World War I put an end to his musical expeditions. This suite is based on folk tunes from Transylvania, the home of you-know-who. Bartók originally arranged them for piano in 1915 then orchestrated them for strings two years later. And they really are short – some of them lasting well under a minute. But they’re fascinating musically because Bartók seems to have presented

them in this suite pretty much as he found them without being tempted to add material of his own. Nonetheless, Bartók’s individual sound comes through in the music precisely because these folk songs are the kind of music that the composer drew on to create his personal musical language – The Bartók Sound, if you like. The suite begins with the compelling Bot tánc (Stick Dance) which has some gorgeous contrasting harmonies whereas the third movement has a distinctive Arabic sound. The work culminates in the sixth and last dance which is formed by two different melodies performed without a break. The Norwegians give a brilliant performance of the work and it is good to see the musicians so obviously enjoying themselves.

Aaron Copland (1900-1990): Suite Billy the Kid. NYO2 cond. Giancarlo Guerrero (Duration: 21:03; Video: 1080p HD) Billy the Kid is a ballet dating from 1938 and the story follows the life of America’s most infamous outlaw. Along with Rodeo and Appalachian Spring, it is one of Copland’s most popular

and widely performed works. The ballet is most famous for its incorporation of several American cowboy tunes and folk songs which include Get along Little Doggies, The Old Chisholm Trail and Goodbye Old Paint. This last song was composed by one Charley Willis, a former slave who became a cowboy and rode the Wy o m i n g trail in the late 1800s. He evidently sang to the cattle when they became restless, or so it was said. In 1940 Copland created a colourful eight-movement suite using the original ballet music. The music is descriptive and there’s a brief outline of the plot on Wikipedia which will help make more sense of what’s going on. NYO2 is the younger version of the National Youth Orchestra of the USA. It is the result of a training programme for talented young instrumental players aged between fourteen and seventeen and has a special mission to attract students from social groups usually under-represented in classical music. The young orchestra gives a tremendously confident performance of this challenging music.

To watch these YouTube videos, 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. If you have a laptop, sound quality can be improved significantly by using headphones or external speakers.

Cohen hilariously tackles work-life balance in ‘The Glitch’ Lincee Ray Shelley Stone is a hard-working CEO of a Silicon Valley tech company that sells a small device called a Conch, which helps improve everyday life. The Conch offers helpful advice and prompts such as “take an umbrella” or “turn left on Main Street” when worn. Unfortunately, the tiny piece of technology has recently been known to encourage owners to “jump off the bridge.” Shelley was struck by lightning as a teenager, so nothing seems implausible to her at this point in her life. She approaches every challenge with clear and precise thinking, no matter how absurd the problem may appear. She’s a master at efficiency and will stop at nothing to make sure the Conch glitch is handled carefully — even if it means remaining at work until the early hours of the morning. Her company is her life. Although blogs and newspaper articles make her seem like a supermom, the reality is that a team of people help Shelley care for her family. She doesn’t see a problem with

this lifestyle until her husband volunteers to exit his own rat race so he can see the kids more often. Shelley feels a twinge of guilt. Should she want to stay home more often instead of flying around the world delivering TED talks? On top of her husband’s highly unusual revelation, Shelley begins to experience her own Conch abnormalities. When she meets another woman overseas who looks like a much younger version of herself, her Conch instructs her to “meet Shelley Stone.” The young girl has the same eyes, the same scars and knows intimate details of her life. Is this woman a lookalike? Is she Shelley from the future? Or has Shelley reached a critical point in her non-stop schedule that has finally resulted in a nervous breakdown? “The Glitch” takes a hard look at the definition of work-life balance. Through hilarious antics and sensational story lines, author Elisabeth Cohen encourages readers to slow down, take a breath and consider the perspective of a younger you. Would that person think you are living your best life? (AP)

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Wes Anderson doesn’t stray with ‘Isle of Dogs’ Lindsey Bahr Los Angeles (AP) - There is an out-of-body melancholy that sets in about three quarters of the way through Wes Anderson’s ninth feature “Isle of Dogs.” Yes, you will be inexplicably wrapped up in the drama of a gang of sickly stop-motion animated dogs who have been exiled to a trash island and are determined to get back to a life of cozy domesticity, enchanted by its artistry and trying your best to suppress your laughter so you don’t miss a beat. But you also start to realize that it will soon be over and you’ll have to go back to your day bereft of that wit, imagery and storytelling, essentially nursing an acute case of Wes Anderson wistfulness. A

small price to pay for 101 minutes of joy, I guess. With story help from Anderson mainstays Roman Coppola and Jason Schwartzman and new addition Kunichi Nomura, Anderson writes a fable of sorts set 20 years in the future, when canine flu has infected an entire population of dogs, causing manic behavior, weight loss and adorable sneezing. It’s also sparked an anti-dog mania in Japan that has left some searching for a cure and others eager to just rid the country of the problem. The leader, Mayor Kobayashi (Nomura) and his ghoulish henchmen Major-Domo (Akira Takayama) respond in turn by exiling all dogs to a trash island and rejecting any possibility of a scientific solution to the disease. The humans, however, are decidedly the supporting cast members in “Isle of Dogs,” which more than a few people have already pointed out sounds a heck of a lot like “I Love Dogs.”

On the island, the once pampered set of house pets have all gone (somewhat) wild, fighting over maggotinfested scraps and dreaming of the days of doggie treats, baths and plush pillows to sleep on. They’ve self-divided into little survivalist troupes and whisper to one another about rumors of cannibal dogs on the other side of the island. The group we follow is led by Chief (Bryan Cranston), a stray among house pets, and made up of Rex (Edward Norton), Boss (Bill Murray), King (Bob Balaban) and Duke (Jeff Goldblum). And their world is upended when a boy they refer to as “the little pilot,” Atari (Koyu Rankin), crashes on the island. “Are we eating him or is this a rescue?” one dog asks the gang as they look at Atari’s burning wreckage. “Not sure yet,” another responds. Anderson has used similar constructions before, but it’s the perfect encapsulation of

This image released by Fox Searchlight Pictures shows the character Chief, voiced by Bryan Cranston in a scene from “Isle of Dogs.” (Fox Searchlight via AP) his humor — precise, might beware, there is one straight-forward and a little gnarly scene involving a kidney dark. “Isle of Dogs” is posi- operation, not to mention the tively littered with his signa- fact that Atari spends the ture banter, and it as quick entire film with a piece of and wry as ever, without a scrap metal in his skull. single hair out of place. You may just want to do a And speaking of hair, the quick refresher on the voice look of “Isle of Dogs” is just actors before sitting down otherworldly — vibrant, for a showing too, otherwise purposeful and jam-packed you might go just a little mad with details that will make trying to place where you’ve you want to watch it over heard that voice before. and over. Very young kids There’s Scarlett Johansson

as a pristine show dog, Nutmeg, Greta Gerwig as a young freckled girl leading the prodog movement, Frances McDormand as an interpreter. “Isle of Dogs” also features the vocal stylings of Yoko Ono, Tilda Swinton, Ken Watanabe, Fisher Stevens, Liev Schreiber, Harvey Keitel, F. Murray Abraham and Courtney B. Vance, as the narrator, too. Oh, and Angelica Huston has a credit as “mute poodle.” That Anderson can still excitingly tell a new story within the structure of his unique visual language that we’ve gotten to know so well is just a testament to his incandescent genius. We don’t deserve Wes Anderson, but we should be eternally grateful he doesn’t seem to mind. “Isle of Dogs,” a Fox Searchlight release, is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America for, “thematic elements and some violent imagery.” Running time: 101 minutes. Four stars out of four.

Sylvester Stallone making biopic about boxer Jack Johnson New York (AP) — Days after the presidential pardon of Jack Johnson, Sylvester Stallone has announced plans for a biopic on the first African-American heavyweight champion. Stallone said that his newly launched Balboa Productions will start with a film about Johnson. Last week, Stallone stood next to President Donald Trump in the Oval Office as he signed a rare posthumous pardon to Johnson, who served 10

In this May 24, 2018 photo, President Donald Trump (left) and heavyweight boxer Lennox Lewis (right) watch as Sylvester Stallone gestures in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

In this 1932 file photo, boxer Jack Johnson, the first black world heavyweight champion, poses in New York City. (AP Photo)

Daniel Craig to return as 007 in 2019, Danny Boyle at helm Los Angeles (AP) — Daniel Craig is back as Bond, the spy series’ producers have confirmed, in a Danny Boyledirected film due for release in 2019. Bond producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli of EON Productions announced last week that production on the 25th official James Bond thriller will begin in December at London’s Pinewood Studios. Craig will reprise his role as 007 and Oscar-winner Boyle (“Trainspotting,” ‘’Slumdog Millionaire”) will direct from a screenplay by Boyle’s frequent collaborator John Hodge. Confirmation of Craig’s fifth Bond film followed speculation that the 50-year-old actor

Actor Daniel Craig is shown in this April 9, 2018, file photo. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP) was about to hand in his license to kill. He said in 2015 that he would rather “slash my wrists” than return to the

role — but later backtracked on those remarks, made just after he finished filming his fourth Bond film, “Spectre.”

Boyle has directed Craig as Bond once before, in a 007themed segment for the opening of the 2012 London Olympics. EON said that after more than a decade at Sony Pictures, Universal Pictures will release the next installment of the superspy franchise internationally. MGM will handle the U.S. release. Sony’s Bond contract expired in 2015 and many of the major studios competed for the chance to distribute the profitable franchise. As per tradition Bond 25 will open a bit earlier in the U.K., on Oct. 25, 2019, than in the U.S., where it will debut on Nov. 8, 2019.

months in prison in what Trump called “a racially-motivated injustice.” Trump has said Stallone was instrumental in bringing Johnson’s story to his attention. Stallone’s production company said the film will be fast-tracked with Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures. Stallone has said Johnson was the basis for the character Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” films. The 71-year-old actor is currently in production on “Creed II” with MGM.

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Peter Banks: ‘Instinct’ mott@pattayamail.com This superb, but alarmingly underrated guitarist had a really fine pedigree. First coming to notice in the mid sixties in a wonderful flowerpower band call Syn, with a certain Chris Squires on bass, they were then joined by vocalist Jon Anderson and became the marvelously monikered Mabel Greer’s Toy Shop. Finding this a bit of a mouthful, and with the addition of Tony Kaye on keyboards and Bill Bruford

on drums, they transformed once more and found instant international acclaim as Yes. Two wonderful albums followed, “Yes” and “Time and a Word” but at this point Peter Banks was booted out due to his ambitions of entertaining an audience rather than trying to educate them. It was after a performance at the Marquee that Mott became a fan, always wanting to have fun and being up to having entertainment thrust in his general direction. Watch “Dear Father” from 1970 on You Tube to get the full might of early Yes. Even to this day, Yes guitarist Steve Howe, and Trevor Rabin have made a career out of copying Bank’s trademark guitar licks.

Peter Banks went on to form Flash, who released 3 respectable albums (once described as “Yes music played by Thunder and Lightning”), before being swamped by bad management and punk rock. After spending the Eighties mainly in session work and looking for suitable musicians to work with, Banks went solo in the Nineties with this enchanting album “Instinct”. From the first rippling guitar chords of opening cut “No Place Like Home” to the final bell “Never The Same”,

Peter Banks. (Photo/Wikepedia) which closes the album, your ears are held in thrall by this maestro of the six-string. Although an instrumental album it always holds your attention by its diversity and humour, but you will have to listen to the music to get that. Satriani, Vai, and co would give their eye teeth to put out such a fine collection of fretwork and tunes. The two central passages include track 4, “Sticky Wickets”, played on a midi guitar synthesizer, which starts out funky and then turns itself

inside out to reach a shattering climax. Then, before you have time to push the repeat button Banks is off again with track 5 (“Short Comings”), totally excessive and not at all jazzy, with a relentless four in the bar. It’s like the night of a thousand guitars with Peter Banks the fastest guitar slinger in town. The final track is “Never The Same”, a moving tribute to Banks’s late mother. Never has such a beautiful piece of music been played on the electric guitar.

If you hear this music like me I’m sure you will be mystified why Peter Banks did not become an international star. The album cover and the inside sleeve notes are worth the price of the CD alone, so you cannot lose. Dogs have superb instinct so trust this dog’s instinct and add this to your collection, you won’t regret it - 5 stars. Other CD’s by Peter Banks include: “Self Contained”, “Reduction”, “Two Sides of Peter Banks”, and “Can I Play You Something”. Tracks List: No Place Like Home All Points South Fogbound Sticky Wicket Short Comings Code Blue Angels Animal Mundi Swamp Report Instinctive Behavior Dominating Factor Never The Same Note: Written by Mott The Dog of Jameson’s, The Irish Pub, Soi AR, North Pattaya.

Iglesias loves his fans, but misses family ‘like crazy’ No stairway to basement heaven just yet for British singer

Caron Creighton Tel Aviv, Israel (AP) — Pop star Enrique Iglesias misses his newborn twins “like crazy.” But he says performing for his fans is the next best thing to being home. While the Spanish singer has traditionally kept his personal life private, he and his wife, former tennis player Anna Kournikova, took to social media recently to share some rare photos and videos of themselves and their children. He said he wanted to open up to his fans because they have given him so much. “I don’t mind sharing part of my life with them,” he told The Associated Press. “I always have, in a way, through my music.” Iglesias performed to nearly 50,000 fans in Tel Aviv at the end of last month. The crowd cheered when Iglesias took to the stage, starting with his song “I’m a Freak,” accompanied by a show of lasers. Devoted fans wore T-shirts proclaiming their love for the

Spanish singer Enrique Iglesias performs on stage in Tel Aviv, Israel, Sunday, May 27. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit) 43-year-old pop star, and said he never had second held signs declaring him the thoughts about coming to “sexiest father alive.” the country. “I miss my family like “I’ve sang in so many crazy,” said Iglesias. “But I countries around the world love doing what I do, which during conflicts, my music is is being on stage and just not about politics,” he said. being surrounded by my “If my fans ask me to go to a fans. Those are the two place and there is demand, I things I love most in my life.” will be there no matter what.” It was Iglesias’ fourth perIglesias’ most recent single, formance in Israel. Artists, ‘Move to Miami’ was released including Iglesias, often in May. Iglesias has been come under pressure from a performing around Europe grassroots pro-Palestinian and South America, and came boycott movement not to to Israel following a perforperform in Israel. But Iglesias mance in Ljubljana, Slovenia.

London (AP) — There will be no stairway to basement heaven just yet for British singer Robbie Williams. Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, Williams’ next-door neighbor, has persuaded local authorities to postpone a decision on the pop star’s plan for an underground gym and swimming pool. Page and the former member of boy band Take That have been battling for years over Williams’ plans to extend his home in the affluent Holland Park area of west London. Page doesn’t have a whole lotta love for the project, saying building work could damage his own 19th-century Gothic-revival mansion, Tower House. The interior of the turreted red-brick building by architect William Burgess features ornate tiling, plasterwork and stained glass, which Page says could be damaged by vibrations from construction work. The pioneering heavy-rock guitarist has said he only plays acoustic guitars at home in order to protect the house, which he bought in 1972 from the actor Richard Harris. In a letter to Kensington and Chelsea Council, Williams said the planned construction work “will result in absolute minimal impact” to neighboring properties. At a meeting last week, the council’s planning committee decided not to grant Williams planning

Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page speaks out during a planning permission meeting at Kensington Town Hall, in London, Tuesday May 29. (David Mirzoeff/PA via AP) permission until it received further legal assurances. Page said he was “really pleased at the outcome” and the council’s consideration for the house. “I’m only the custodian to pass it on to the next person in the same way I bought it from Richard Harris,” he said.

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Dance provides a feeling of wellbeing Club member Judith Edmonds, opened the presentation for the Pattaya City Expats Club meeting on Sunday, May 27, by introducing her 20 year old granddaughter Jodie Roberts. Jodie is currently on holiday visiting relatives in Thailand and graciously agreed to share her plans for a dancing career. Jodie is a Londoner, and as of this October she will be in her 3rd year of studying mainly contemporary dance at De Montfort University in Leicester, England. The definition of dance being to move one’s body rhythmically - usually to music. Humans have been dancing for a long time. References to dance can be found in our very early recorded history. The university course is intellectually and artistically demanding, offering daily dance classes in contemporary techniques; ballet for contemporary dancers; plus fusion and improvisation, as well as performance and Choreography. Jodie started her presentation by demonstrating her dance techniques to the song “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel (improvised). She freely moved across the stage fully utilizing the space available to

Jodie describes to her PCEC audience how she became interested in contemporary dance. her. She later danced to “Love on the Rocks” by Neil Diamond (choreographed). She commented that she dances to the music not the song. Dance is obviously a good way of keeping fit and Jodie confirmed this. She also considers that it provides a feeling of wellbeing. She sees dance as a common language and uses it to spread joy and positivity. Jodie described her career aspiration to have her own community dance company whereby she will teach a variety of ages, from toddlers to the elderly. Studies have shown that dancing can help you lose weight, stay flexible, reduce stress, and make friends. One study found that people with cardiac conditions, who danced

Jodie describes how she found visiting India and working with local folks a very satisfying experience.

MC Judith Edmonds presents the PCEC’s Certificate of Appreciation to her visiting granddaughter, Jodie Roberts.

Jodie recently danced to “Down by the Salley Gardens” with the Grand Opera Thailand at Diana Garden Resort in North Pattaya.

Member Ren Lexander interviews Jodie after her presentation to the PCEC. To view the video, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQLPtzY3 OEM&feature=youtu.be. for just 20 minutes three times a week, saw their heart health improve significantly more than those who stuck to traditional cardio workouts. This physical activity appeals to some who may not be active and therefore it may be an alternative to exercise. It is not only significant for your physical health but it also contributes to your mental health and social communication. Outside of university term time, Jodie works at a children’s holiday camp in UK as part of their management team. Her career aspiration is to have her own community dance company business where she can travel and teach dance from toddlers up to the elderly. She has acted as a volunteer in Ahmedabad, India. (Ahmedabad is the fifth most populous city in India, and the fastest growing city in India). In her volunteer role she visited a girl’s orphanage and community centres in slum areas. She found this a very satisfying experience. However, she found communication difficult since few of those she came in contact with spoke any English. She now appreciates her own life more - since those she mixed with in India had little in the way of possessions or education. One of Jodie’s inspirations was Trisha Brown, an American

choreographer and dancer, and one of the founders of the Judson Dance Theater and the postmodern dance movement. Trisha received numerous honorary doctorates and was an Honorary Member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters. Trisha Brown took classes in ballet and tap as a child and acted out Broadway routines with her older brother. She went on to study modern dance in California, but following a summer school with experimentalist Anna Halprin, she moved to New York in 1961, eager for new directions. Jodie informed the group that she had recently danced to “Down by the Salley Gardens” with the Grand Opera Thailand (directed by Stefan Sanchez) at Diana Garden Resort in North Pattaya. She also informed the group of two dance studios existing in Pattaya - International Dance Studio and La Bailamos Dance Studio. After the presentation, MC Judith Edmonds brought everyone up to date on upcoming events which was followed by the Open Forum where members and guests can ask questions or make comments about Expat living in Thailand. For more on the PCEC and their activities or to subscribe to their weekly newsletter, visit www.pcec.club.

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Ailing Thai beach made famous

A tourist poses for a photo on Koh Phi Phi Leh. Boats anchor in Maya Bay.

Tourists are reflected in sunglasses at Maya Bay, now closed to tourists.

Last month, the Philippines began a six-month closure of popular Boracay Island, whose waters President Rodrigo Duterte described as a “cesspool.” Venice, the famed Italian lagoon city that lives off tourism, installed gates at two access bridges during a four-day holiday in April so it could turn back visitors if numbers became overwhelming. Many of Thailand’s marine national parks are closed from mid-May to mid-October

Tassanee Vejpongsa

Tourists pose for photos on an outcropping in Maya Bay. Thailand’s National Parks and Wildlife Department has closed the popular tourist destination to give its coral reefs and sea life a chance to recover from an onslaught that began nearly two decades ago.

Maya Bay, Thailand (AP) - Once a pristine Thai paradise, the secluded bay made famous by the Leonardo DiCaprio movie “The Beach” has been exhausted by mass tourism. Now it’s getting a break. On Friday, June 1, the daily influx of dozens of boats and thousands of visitors unsuccessfully scrambling for an unspoiled view of Maya Bay’s emerald waters and glistening white sand ended. The attraction was closed for four months to give its coral reefs and sea life a chance to recover. Thailand has promoted unfettered tourism for decades and the onslaught on Maya Bay, which is on Phi Phi Leh Island in the Andaman Sea, has only picked up pace in recent years. Authorities now say they are striving to

Jeanette van Leeuwin, a 29-year-old from The Netherlands, helps national park rangers with coral propagation on Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi Leh in Krabi province. balance profit and conservation and the closure will happen every year. It is part of a rethink happening globally about unrestricted tourism that brings in big dollars but damages historic sites, harms the environment and often alienates locals.

during the monsoon season but because of Maya Bay’s popularity, it hasn’t had a break since a Hollywood crew set foot on its sands in 1999 to film the dark backpacker tale based on a novel by Alex Garland. Its corals have been decimated by the suffocating clouds of sand

Tourists in the hundreds arrive Koh Phi Phi Leh’s beach.

Tourists enjoy Maya Bay Beach on Phi Phi Leh. The government has set a limit of 2,000 tourists a day when the bay reopens.

Numerous tourists walk along Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh in Krabi. The popular tourist destination in the Andaman Sea has closed to tourists for four months.

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by Hollywood closes to tourism

A tourist jumps for a photo on the popular beach at Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh. and sediment churned up by speedboats. “I tried to push this campaign for many, many years, but you know in Thailand we are a tourism industry country and we need a lot of money, so before not so many people listened,” said Thon Thamrongnawasawat, a marine biologist and member of a government committee on development and the environment. “It should have been done 10 years ago but at least it has been done,” he said. Thailand had about 35 million international visitors last year, a five-fold increase in little more than two decades.

from the other side of the island. “We are not against protecting our environment,” he said. “We know full well that Maya Bay is our important resource, like a rice field to a farmer, but we wish there are more communications about the government’s plan before the decision was made.” Thon, however, said the plan was discussed with locals for three years before a decision was made. “In the past, we made some mistake because we think that the money is very important. But now we are trying to change our idea,” he said. Overseas visitors are “very

A national park ranger assists coral propagation at Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi Leh in Krabi province. Shi Pengfei, among the last tourists to visit Maya Bay before its closure, said he had no idea that there would be so many people on the beach. “I feel that there are so many people here,” said Shi, from Henan, China. “The government’s plan to close off the beach for a few months is only natural because the ocean needs a break, a chance to recover, so that the next generation can have a better and even more beautiful destination.” But locals aren’t entirely happy. The head of the Phi Phi Tourist Business Association, Watrapol Jantharo, said he was surprised when the closure was announced in March by Thailand’s National Parks and Wildlife Department. He said locals were under the impression that Maya Bay would only be closed to boats, while visitors would still walk to the bay

“Now that the government has this plan, we can’t change it. But we could use this opportunity to tell the world that we do not just have Maya Bay. There are 10 other beautiful beaches and islands around here that tourists can enjoy,” said Watrapol. Thailand’s efforts to protect certain islands after decades of unregulated tourism began about three years ago under the current military junta, which has banned the types of protests such moves may have sparked had they been announced by civilian governments. Yoong Island, part of the Phi Phi island chain, and Tachai Island in the Similan Islands National Park, have been off-limits to tourists since mid-2016. Thon, who surveyed both islands recently, said he was amazed by the results. Waters that were devoid of fish are now teeming, he said, and there is about 10,000 square meters (107,600 square feet) of newly recovered coral off one of the islands.

Tourists jump in the waves in Maya Bay.

Tourists take selfies on the beach.

Droves of tourists arrive on powerboats.

The popular tourist destination of Maya Bay in the Andaman Sea has closed to tourists for four months to give its coral reefs and sea life a chance to recover from an onslaught that began nearly two decades ago. important to our country, but the most important thing is our national resource. We have to preserve and hand it to the next generation.” The government has set a limit of 2,000 tourists a day when the bay reopens about half the current number. Boats will no longer be allowed to anchor but must dock on the opposite side of the island.

At Maya Bay, park rangers have been preparing a coral propagation program, attaching it to rocks that will be placed in the bay once the tourists are gone. “We’re almost certain that something good will happen in Maya Bay,” Thon said. (AP Photos by Sakchai Lalit taken Thursday, May 31, 2018)

Tourists crowd the beach at Maya Bay.

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E-mail: socialscene@pattayamail.com

Amari Phuket wins Trip Advisor’s top awards

Amari Phuket was one of only 25 hotels across Thailand to receive TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, while the flagship La Gritta Restaurant was named one of TripAdvisor’s Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Thailand. Pierre-Andre Pelletier (centre right), Vice President & Area General Manager, South Thailand, and Hotel Manager Richard Margo (centre left) together with the staff pose proudly for a group photo.

Indian Ambassador holidays at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya

Denis Thouvard (left) GM of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, and Resident Manager Jari Nielsen (right), greet the Ambassador of the Republic of India H.E. Bhagwant Bishnoi and his wife Rupa during their stay at the resort recently.

University students take part in Careers@Hilton Week

PAO hold seminar at Kantary Hotel, Korat

Hilton Pattaya took part in Careers @Hilton Week, an annual global career event showcasing the many opportunities available in the hospitality industry for young job seekers. As part of the program, fifty students from Faculty of Management and Tourism, Burapha University in Chonburi recently were shown around the hotel to see the work of the various departments, including the reception, room set-up, the art of folding towels and the F&B department.

Magrin Promyothi (right), GM of Kantary Hotel Korat, welcomed Sub Lt. Renogram Suwanchavee (left), President of Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Administrative Organisation, who presided over the training workshop on teacher development at hotel recently.

Record Turnout for UNWTO Gastronomy Tourism Conference in Thailand

A record 475 delegates from 52 countries turned up for the 4th UNWTO Forum on Gastronomy Tourism held in Bangkok recently. Organised by the UN World Tourism Organisation and Basque Culinary Centre the conference focused on raising awareness both nationally and regionally as to the significance and role of gastronomy tourism as a key towards the development of sustainable tourism in the region. (l-r) Tanes Petsuwan, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications; Pongpanu Svetarundra, Permanent Secretary of Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism & Sports; Joxe Mari Aizega, Director of Basque Culinary Centre; H.E. Weerasak Kowsurat, Minister of Tourism and Sports, Thailand; H.E. Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO); Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor; and Srisuda Wanapinyonsak, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, Middle East and Americas.

THAI Participates in 19th Thai Festival 2018 in Tokyo

Thai Airways International participated in the Thai Festival in Tokyo recently. More than 300,000 people participated in this year’s event, including Thai restaurants, shops that sold local Thai products, and Royal Project products. More than 160 booths were set up to promote Thai products and demonstrations of various traditional activities. The event was held at Yoyogi Park in Tokyo’s Shibuya area in collaboration with the Royal Thai Embassy in Tokyo, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and Shibuya Ward Office. THAI held a promotional booth to boost sales and publicity and provided four roundtrip tickets from Tokyo to Bangkok that were raffled off in a lucky draw. Amongst the attendees at the festival were Nond Kalinta (2nd left), Acting Vice President, Sales Department, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, Arnuphap Kittikul (5th left), THAI General Manager of Japan, Weerasak Kowsurat (3rd left), Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, as Chairman of the 19th Thai Festival 2018, and H.E. Bansan Bunnag (4th left), Ambassador of Thailand to Tokyo.

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Articles For Sale/Rent As611/01-52/ Pattaya Mail Cartoonist Michael Baird (M.J.B.) has 3 brand new cartoon E-Books out. These and his other 10 cartoon EBooks can be bought from www.amazon.co.uk or www.booksmango.com. You will now be able to see all of Mike’s cartoons in FULL COLOUR. His 3 new Kindle E-Books are “Pattaya Cartoon Memories”, “Ladyboy Book 3” and “Pattaya Unforgettable Memories”. These cartoons are for grown-ups and would be unique gifts. You never know - You might see yourself in them!

Articles/Services Wanted Aw01/01-52/ Missionary in Rayong sponsoring Little Duck Nursery needs help. Please - Any unwanted items

FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018 21

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you have would be appreciated. (Eng) Rev Stephen 086 600 5682, (Thai) 0875 381 586

Businesses for Sale or Rent Bop10/01-52/ House in Pratumnak, corner Soi 4, with 5 floors; 320sqm, 9 rooms, 8 bathrooms, entrance room, completely restored 2016, garage; 7,500,000 THB; (Ref. 259) WWW.GO PROPERTY THAILAND.COM, 093-161 5995. Bop04/01-52/ Exclusive Sale! Hotel Resort in Koh Samui with 71 rooms; 10,700sqm of land, perfect investment; one of the best hotels with the most beautiful beach on the island; rare opportunity; Price extremely reduced, owner wants to retire; details: GO PROPERTY THAILAND; 093- 161 5995 Bop03/01-52/ “Paradise for sale” on famous Phuket beach; breathtaking, beautiful resort on 1000-wah (4,000sqm)

of land with 7 Thai- teak traditional style houses located directly on the beach; each house is a unique artwork with antique furniture & art; must see; only one of his kind in Thailand; very rare opportunity; details: GO PROPERTY THAILAND; 093- 161 5995 Bop01/01-52/ Hotel with “Hotel license” located 50m from Jomtien Beach, 45 guest rooms, lobby, bar, massage room, maiden rooms; one of the best locations on Jomtien Beach: 75,000,000 THB. Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com

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. Pets02/01-52/ **Free Cats and Kittens** We are still trying to find loving 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

Notices

Houses, Villas

No01/21-25/ Looking for a game of snooker with a retired ex-professional UK snooker player? Tel. Mike on 089 152 3202

Pets Pets03/01-52/ Homeless puppies available for adoption to warm and caring

Property for Rent Prb172/22-41/ House for Rent 7,500 baht: Soi Nernplabwan. Contact 0619645253 / 0983477786 Prb171/22-26/ TOWNHOUSE, Off Soi Khaotalo, Like new, quiet, safe, two bedroom, one bathroom, patio, carport, Thai kitchen, air-conditioned, FULLYFURNUSHED,Guarded Subdivision, Communal Pool, One Year Lease, Bt.9,500.

Monthly, Bt.19,000 Security Deposit. English, 087-805-5276 Prb170/21-25/ Beautiful House for Rent: 3 bed, 3 baths, fully furnished, private Pool. Near Jomtien beach. Start from 30,000 baht/month. Phone: 081782-0206, 084-362-5920, www.rimtalay.com Prb167/14-39/ HOUSES FOR RENT –Rattana Village and Udomsuk Village: 72120m2, up to 7,000 Baht. Mr. Udom 082 2091452, Mr. Wirat 089 9354369

Condos, Apartments Prc207/19-38/ Royal Park Luxury Service Apartments and penthouse suite, Jomtien: starting at 15,000 baht/month. 56-70sqm, 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, Contact 086 111 7414 or check on our website www. royalparkjomtien.com to see why we are number 1 in Jomtien

22 FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

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)

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Prc209/23-27/ Studio Apartment for rent at Pattaya Hill Resort: 42sqm, fully furnished, sea views, situated in Soi 2 Pratamnak Hill: 12,000 per month plus electric. Free wifi, cable TV and water. Call Aoy 092-692-6395 Prc208/22-41/ Condo for Rent 8,500 baht: Studio 32sqm, in the city, fully furnished, big swimming pool. Contact 0619645253 / 0983477786 Prc207/22-23/ Pattaya Beach Rd. Soi 13, Large furnished studio, safe, poolside + seaview balcony, terrace, 12,500.- Tel.091-504-1806 Prc206/19-23/ Markland Studio 48sqm, beach front balcony, refurbished, furnished, pool, fitness, minimum 12 months @ 15,000B/ month by owner ian.thailand @hotmail.com, 087 137 1529 Prc205/19-23/ Prestigious Sky Beach Condo, very nice must see - High floor – 54sqm - directly at Wongamat Beach/ Naklua with wonderful sea views. Rent negotiable please contact e-mail: marty111@outlook.de Prc202/14-52/ Seaview Studio, View Talay 1A, high floor, Pattaya side, Living room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, Flat TV, ceiling fan, clean & nice furnished, air-condition, security door, parking, big pool, located on “10 Baht Taxi route: 9,500 THB/monthly. Tel. 092- 753 9309 (available from 1 May 2018)

VOL. XXVI No. 23

McDonald’s), 2 beds, 2 baths, office, living room, nicely furnished, terrace and “sala” (pergola) in the garden, end of cul-de-sac, nice little garden, quiet and and central location, reduced from 4.9 M Baht to only 3.5 M Baht. Heiner 081 861 19 07

Condos, Apartments Prc201/14-39/ Apartments for rent: 46m2, air-con, hot water, kitchen, in Nongprue area- 4,500 Baht. Tel. Mr. Udom 082 2091452, Mr. Heinz 089 989 0567 Prc199/14-52/ Seaview Studio, Jomtien Beach Road, between Soi 15 – 16: 43sqm, high floor, living-bedroom, kitchen, bath, terrace, office table, clean & nice furnished, air-condition, fitness gym, garage, 25m pool, direct on “10 Baht Taxi route”: 9,800 THB/ monthly. Tel. 092- 753 9309 Prc191/01-52/ Pratumnak Seaview Studio with private access to the beach; Ref: 2016- 139; located directly on the beach, 3rd floor, no public streets, no buses, no traffic; totally peaceful, sea views from the terrace; living space 51sqm; fully furnished; direct access to the beach; 1 living/bedroom, 1 bathroom, full kitchen; WiFi; security 7/24h; community pool on beachfront; restaurant on pool side, supermarket, laundry; For Rent at

13,500 THB/month; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com

Property for Sale Houses, Villas Psb31/22-26/ Beautiful 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, Private Pool House not far from Sukhumvit via Siam Country Club: 210m2 Interior and 400m2 Exterior. Spacious rooms Euro kitchen and quality furniture. Parking 2 cars covered port remote gate. Shops and restaurants close by. 4.9M option to buy as package with Toyota Hilux 2009 in A 1 Condition. 083-102-9293 Psb30/21-25/ Fully-furnished two-bedroom townhouse, quiet village of Siam Country Club Road: 475,000 THB. Contact (Thai) 085 641 560, (English) 093 785 2252 Psb29/13-52/ Semi-detached house in Central Park 2 (Sukkhumvit behind

Psc82/22-26/ New Price Down for my Condo Jomtien Porchland 2, 38m2, 1 bedroom 8 Floor, Foreign name, fully furnished, swimming pool, gym cable TV, internet, 5 Years old nice view, 1.50 MLN BHT. Rent: 8,500 baht per Month Tel: 087138-3523 Psc81/20-24/ Beachfront Condo at Bangsaray Condominium: 150sqm. 2-bedrooms, 2-bathrooms, 300m from beach, only 137units in 20 rai of green landscaped surroundings in an exclusive residence. Excellent decoration, fully furnished, TVLCD 50". Hot Sale: 8.9 million THB (59,000 baht/sqm). 081-3358102 (owner), for photos: pitipity@hotmail .com, Line: piti.t Psc81/19-23/ Markland Studios, Pattaya Beach Road, finance available: 48sqm, beachfront balcony, furnished, refurbished, pool, fitness, foreign ownership, by owner, 3 MIO baht, 20% deposit + 120 months @ 25000. Other bespoke available. ian.thailand@hotmail.com, 0871371529

VOL. XXVI No. 23

Psc74/03-52/ Sea-View Condo Tropicana Pratumnak, modern 2 bedroom apartment, 81sqm, Pattaya City South, beautiful sea and island views; 1 living room with dining area, 1 bedroom, 1 office room, 1 bathroom, 1 shower room, fully equipped European kitchen, fully furnished, high Speed WLAN/ WiFi connection, Safe Box, air-con, ceiling fans, 2 swimming pools (roof and ground floor), Fitness Gym, Garage; medical Clinic; ZEN Beauty Clinic; located at the “10 BahtTaxi route; For Sale at THB 4,500,000. Call 092- 753 9309 Psc59/01-52/ In the heart of Jomtien, 2 bedroom condo, (Ref: 2016- 259) 90sqm, 4th floor, big living room, 2 bathrooms, European kitchen, completely reformed, new furniture, 2 balconies, 3 aircons, 2 pools, garage, private access to Jomtien Beach; 3,950,000 THB; WWW.GO PROPERTY THAILAND. COM, 093- 161 5995. Psc24/01-52/ Studio in Pattaya City; Ref: 2016- 136; located close to BIG C EXTRA, Pattaya Central Road; living space 28sqm; fully furnished;1 living/bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1 kitchenette; WiFi; 2 community pools; restaurants, bars, supermarket, laundry; 699.000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com

FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018 23

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Psc20/01-52/ Beachfront Jomtien, Pattaya; Ref: 2016106; located at Jomtien Beach Road with stunning sea views, 26thfloor; living space 45sqm; direct access to the beach; fully furnished;1 living/ bedroom; 1 bathroom, 1 kitchen; terrace; WiFi; security 7/24h; fitness gym; big community pool; garage; supermarket, laundry; 1,850,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com Psc18/01-52/ Apartment Thappraya Road, Pattaya; Ref: 2016- 213; located on Thappraya Road with very nice sea and city views, 14th floor; living space 64sqm; 400m to the beach; fully furnished; living room with dining area, 1 bedroom/s, 1 bathroom/s, kitchen; terrace; internal blinds; 2 aircons; ceiling fans; WiFi; security 7/24h; fitness gym; community pool; 10 Baht Taxi Route into City, free parking; restaurants, bars, 24hrs supermarket, laundry; 2,750,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com Psc17/01-52/ Studio directly on the beach from Ban Amphur; Ref: 2016-181; new Studio on the 6th floor with stunning sea views; living space 35sqm; 1bathroom; air-condition; infinity pool on roof top; very nice beach location with many small restaurants, windsurfing shops and much more; garage; security 7/ 24h; to Pattaya City 20 min;

2,998,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com Psc16/01-52/ Luxury Apartments in Pattaya City; Ref: 2016- 187; 1 or 2 bedrooms in a high rise condominium with 29 floors; living space 26-79sqm; community pools; fitness gym; massage, laundry, children playground; parking; cafe; restaurant; security 7/24h; construction end approx. 4/2018; prices are starting with 3.168,989 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com Psc15/01-52/ MARKLAND Studio, Pattaya Beach; Ref: 2016- 199; located on Pattaya Beach Road with very nice sea views, living space 45sqm; fully furnished; direct access to the beach; 1 living/bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1 kitchenette; WiFi; security 7/24h; fitness gym; community pool; restaurants, bars, supermarket, laundry; 3,495,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com Psc14/01-52/ City Apartment, Central Road close BIG C EXTRA; Ref: 2016172; 2nd floor, living space 92,5sqm; fully furnished; city location; 1 living room, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms ensuite, 1 kitchen; terrace; WiFi; security 7/24h; fitness gym; community pool; parking; restaurants, bars, supermarket, laundry; 3,500,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com Psc13/01-52/ Condo in Naklua; Ref: 2016- 224; new condo with 2 bedrooms, 3rdfloor; living space 54sqm; fully furnished; living room with dining area, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 European kitchen; WiFi; security 7/24h; fitness gym; community pool; garage; parking; restaurants, bars, supermarket “BIG C Extra”, laundry, 10 bath taxi route; 3,890,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com Psc12/01-52/ Luxury Apartments in Pattaya Pratamnak; Ref: 2016- 188; 1 bedroom in a condominium with 5 floors; living space 33-77sqm; pool with jacuzzi; fitness gym; sauna, kids playground; parking; security 7/24h; prices are starting with 4,296,530 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com

Psc10/01-52/ Beachfront Apartment Pattaya Beachroad; Ref: 2016- 193; 2 studios converted into a one bedroom apartment; re-division anytime possible (2 titles /chanots); it is located directly on Pattaya Beach Road in the heart of Pattaya Beach; living space 90sqm; 1 living room, 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, open kitchen; totally refurbished; community pool; fitness gym; garage; security 7/24h; access to the beach; restaurants; coffee shops; 7,500,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com Psc7/01-52/ High floor condo at Jomtien Beach; Ref: 2016223; Sea view apartment with 3 bedrooms, located at Jomtien Beach Road with attached guest studio; breathtaking sea views, 22nd floor; living space 190sqm; short walking to the beach; fully furnished; 2 living rooms with dining areas, 3 bedroom/s, 3 bathrooms, 1 European kitchen; 1 kitchenette; terrace; WiFi; security 7/24h; fitness gym; sauna; spa; community pool; storage room; garage; parking; restaurants, bars, supermarket, laundry; located in the “Heart of Jomtien”; 9,950,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com Psc6/01-52/ High floor beachfront Apartment in Naklua; Ref: 2016-192; Sea view apartment in a high rise condominium with 25 floors with direct access to the beach; living space 180sqm; fully furnished; community pool; fitness gym; sauna; laundry; garage; security 7/ 24h; 13,500,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com Psc5/01-52/ BANGKOK Luxury high floor apartment; Ref: 2016- 201; Apartment in Bangkok; own mooring for speed boat; SKY TRAIN in front of the condo; breathtaking City views overlooking the royal Grand Palace; living space 350sqm; fully furnished with antique, Asian and European furniture; living room with dining area; 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, jacuzzi; 1 European kitchen; laundry; huge terrace; WiFi; security 7/24h;

fitness gym; sauna; spa; 3 garage parking; 40,860,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@ gopropertythailand.com Psc4/01-52/ Beachfront location, one of the very best luxury apartments in Pattaya in one of the best locations in Pattaya; Ref: 2016- 5995; breathtaking island and ocean views; living space 245sqm; fully furnished; living room with dining area; 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, guest toilet; full European kitchen; laundry; huge terrace; WiFi; security 7/24h; fitness gym; 2 garage parking; private access to the beach; 49,000,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093- 161 5995; jo@gopropertythailand.com

Land for Sale P22/14-52/ Bang Saray, close to GERMAN AUTO BMW, 10 Rai (1 Rai 2.8 mio): www. GOPROPERTYTHAILAND .com; Tel. 093-161 5995 P21/07-52/ Land on public, cozy beach, Pratumnak, with 850 Talang Wah (3,400sqm) at the bottom of Pratumnak Soi 5. The land is owned free and clear by a Thai company. Perfect for an exclusive residential development, serviced apartment or hotel project in the neighborhood of 5-star Centara Grand Pratumnak Hotel: 245,000,000 THB; GO PROPERTY THAILAND; call Khun Jo: 093- 161 5995 P18/01-52/ 6,700sqm Land on Pratumnak Road, Soi 1, in front of UNIX Condominium; can be divided in 3 units; unit A: 815 T-wah 146,700,000 THB; unit B: 860 T-wah 155,010,000 THB; unit C (total): 1,675 T-wah

301,710,000 THB; WWW. GOPROPERTYTHAILAND .COM; please call Jo: 093161 5995 P16/01-52/ Jomtien Beach, 50 Rai at “km 1”: www. GOPROPERTYTHAILAND .com; Tel. 093-161 5995

Services Provided Sp02/23/ CONSTRUCTION: Condo Re-Fit, House, Shops, Additions, Tel. 085-083-4221 Sp01/23/ PLANS DRAWN Engineer designed 085-0834221

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24 FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

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VOL. XXVI No. 23

Davis delivers at Bangpra PSC Golf from the Tropical Golf Group Monday, May 28, Bangpra – Stableford It is most unusual for us to play on a Monday, however with the Tuesday a holiday it seemed a good idea at the time. One thing I noted on this day that I really have not seen in days past, probably because of the grass not being cut as short, was the fact that long leaf grass seems to be taking over this

course and has become very widespread. This is very difficult to get out of once you are in it and many of the players found they were coming in with very low scores. This is always a difficult course but on this day seemed ultra testing for most of the players. This long leaf grass has been a problem at many courses in this area and is difficult to recover from.

was in third with 35 and Don Carmody fourth with 31. The best front nine (nonwinner) was recorded by Dave Cooper with 18 points and best back nine came from Gordon Clegg with 15 points.

Friday, June 1, Pattavia – Stableford

John Davis. The greens were not too bad but this course is noted over the years for the best greens around and on this day they were quite slow, also probably due to the heavy rain of late. We did however get away without being soaked. One of our players had an altercation with one of the

Leo shines bright at Eastern Star

male monkeys today. The player was not injured but decided that he was not that hungry after all and the monkeys were free to eat his peanuts. The winner on the day, with a superb score in the circumstances, was John Davis with 42 points and a continuation of his great form of late. In second was Dick Warberg with 37 points, John Pirelle

A small but enthusiastic group found a practically empty parking lot and course at Pattavia. With a high probability of rain during our round we teed off playing “ball-in-hand - through the green”. Although carts were allowed on fairways, the course was wet under foot and with balls picking up mud it was a wise decision. Overall the course was in great condition and the greens, while a bit quick downhill, were nowhere near the pace that most remember at Pattavia. With the pace of play great we were well into the back 9

before the storm clouds appeared and the thunder started getting close. However, while a light drizzle did cause umbrellas to go up and a couple bag condoms to go on, there was nothing severe enough to halt play and the round was finished pretty much on the 4 hour mark. It was then we had our upset of the day as there was no electricity in the clubhouse and therefore no hot water and little water pressure in the showers. So it was a rinse under a dribble of cold water, towel off and into dry clothes for the trip back to Pattaya. With no technical or “Best 9” prizes up for grabs, the presentation was short and sweet. Congratulations to Mick Coghlan (C/H 26) for his 39 points and the top step on the podium. Mick was followed by three at 34 points; John Davis (13), Daryl Evans (27), and Mashi Kaneta (16) in order of the count-back.

Truelove steals the show

The Jomtien Golf Society Monday, May 28, Bangpra - Stableford The forecast was quite reasonable today and as we pulled into the course the car park was almost full. We ambled down to the very crowded first tee and the marshall confirmed they were running 25 minutes behind schedule. It was a tough struggle out there today with a five hour and 15minute very slow round and the heat was immense on the course with no breeze at all, the majority of walkers wished they had taken a buggy for the day. The equal cut in the two divisions was set at 4-21 and 22+ and with 35 points the highest score of the day came from Peter Davies who won division 2. Gordon Everingham was second one point behind Peter, Leo Adam took third on 32 and in fourth place with 28 points was a rather embarrassed Steven Cliff. Still playing off 4, Russell Goldsworthy topped the podium in division 1 with 34 points, Pete Sumner was second two points behind, Paul Young placed third on 30 and down for a one off game from Khao Yai was Tim Hake who took fourth with 29.

Ladies winner Jeeranan Duncan. Steve Truelove (right) collects his prize. (From left) Steven Cliff, Russell Goldsworthy and John Hughes. Near pins went to (Div 1) Russell Goldsworthy, John Hughes and Pete Sumner, and (Div 2) Peter Davies and Ray Daws (2). Pete Sumer and Pete Davies recorded the only ‘2’s on the day.

Wednesday, May 30, Eastern Star Stableford The weather looked very threatening on the way down to the course but all the groups teed off at the normal time. We reached the 11th and the rain started, but it was only drizzle and lasted for this hole only so we were very lucky. Leo Adam won division 2 with 40 points, Tony Thorne

was second on 32, Peter Davies third one point further back and Steven Cliff completed the podium in fourth on 30 points. Lower scores today in division 1 with Nik Evans winning with 32 points, Ian Speirs was second on 31, Paul Butler third with 29 and Frank Kelly fourth on 28. Near pins were claimed by (Div 1) Paul Butler, Nik Evans, John Hughes and Pete Sumner, and (Div 2) Steven Cliff (2). Only one ‘2’ today and it came from John Hughes on the 13th in division 1. Friday’s game at Green Valley was cancelled due to a heavy downpour just before we were due to tee off.

Another day dawned and golfers made their way to the Khao Kheow Country Club to play this challenging course for the May PAGS tournament. The day’s field of 96 players, which included 5 ladies, had an eye on the weather conditions and with good reason too as a few storms had been experienced over the previous few days. We played the A & B combination, with the course being in reasonable condition after the recent storms, with a variety of the club’s yellow & white tee boxes. Greens were running smoothly, although the recent rain softened the fairways reducing much run, with a heavy 30 minute storm dropping plenty

more water on the course. Organizers had implemented ‘lift, clean & place’ on the closely mown areas to avoid the dreaded mud ball on the soft fairways, an insightful decision. Steve Truelove (H/cap 12) was the standout performer this month, shooting 75 to claim the Low Gross, first place in the A Flight with an outstanding 45 points and his maximum 2 technicals. The Ladies winner was regular PAGS participant Jeeranan Duncan with a solid 36 points, to go with her NTP on A5. Runner-up in the A flight for handicaps 0–12 was Tommy Marshall (8) with an impressive 41 points, to go with his approach on B1,

while Peter Park (6) picked up third spot on 37 points, plus an Approach on A6. B flight winner for handicaps 13-19 was Craig Banks (14) with 39 points to go with his Long Drive on A9, while the minor places were tightly contested with a countback required. Richard Goodwyn (18) got the nod with his 19 points on the back 9, over Mikael Andersen (18) after both signed for 38 points. In the C flight, for handicaps 20 & above, there was a clear win for Todd Fox (37) with 42 points, 1 ahead of Thierry Danzas (27), while the bronze went to John Duffy (24) with a creditable 39 points. A shout out of congratulations to John Seton for his first ever hole in one on Hole A5.

VOL. XXVI No. 23

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Poopay top scores at Green Valley

Thomas on top form PSC Golf from The Golf Club

PSC Golf from the Billabong Golf Society Monday, May 28, Phoenix Gold Stableford Phoenix on a very hot day and we played Mountain and Lakes nines from the white tees. The course is in fantastic condition, being readied for the Thai LPGA tournament coming up and the King’s Cup soon after. With only 3 groups playing today we got away a little early and were finished in just on 4 hours. Only six out of 14 players managed to score better than 30 points and in third spot was Lloyd Shuttleworth with 32, on a count back over Capt Bob. Second place went to Kiwi Bill with a fine 36 points and the top place was occupied by Pete Sial with 37. There were no ‘2’s recorded.

Poopay (right) receives her medal from Brian Chapman. Phil O’Halloran, Bob Wade and Jeff Evans.

Steve Ellison

Monday, May 28, Green Valley (white tees) – Monthly Medal

Wednesday, May 30, Green Valley - Medal Green Valley today for the monthly medal, proudly sponsored by Brian Chapman of Haven Consultants. With 4 groups of ladies and 6 groups of men it was a good day out for all concerned. The rain tried to stay away and almost did but we did get a sprinkle for the last three holes. The course itself is in great condition and the greens had been lightly sanded but were good to putt on. It was a bit hot until the light rain fell but after that it was perfect for golf. The scoring was to say the least fantastic, with some scores that would win any tournament on a normal day not even getting a mention in dispatches. In the ladies flight there was a count back for second place on net 66, with Miss Prae getting the edge over Miss Porn. The medal went to Miss Poopay with a net 64, a great round of golf indeed. There

Brian Chapman (left) presents to Jeff North. were three ‘2’s, coming from Noodle, Lynn and Da. In the men’s tournament the scores were of the same caliber with a count back on net 66 that saw Dave Smith take second, Bob Newell third and Brian Chapman in fourth. Jeff North won the trophy with a great net 65, which equated to 76 off the stick. There were three ‘2’s, coming from Dave Smith, Bob Newell and Keith Allen.

Friday, June 1, Burapha – Stableford We played B and D loops for a change on Friday, something we haven’t done for years, in very hot conditions. There was a spell of

about an hour for the storm to pass over and then it was back to work. The course was in great condition but the scribe should have stayed in bed, scoring only 3 points on the first six holes. With four groups we were away a little early and apart from the storm delay around in no time. The scoring was good but not great, with a countback needed to determine the minor places. Rick Culley took second spot over Lloyd Shuttleworth, both with 34 points, while top place went to Paul Greenaway by a narrow margin with 35 points. There was only one ‘2’, coming from Lloyd Shuttleworth.

1st J.P. Thomas net 66 2nd Ian Brimble net 67 3rd Darren Stanton net 70 It sure is taking a lot longer than we thought for these greens to come back but unusually high rains for this time of year seem to have slowed progress. Other than that the course was in pretty good nick. At least those rains cooled things down for us! Nice to see our mate Darren Stanton join us and didn’t he do well taking third place. Ian Brimble is winding down this latest visit and fired a great 67 for second. We are actually getting more ladies to join us on our Monday outings so if you and the wife are reading this, what are you waiting for? Couples are always welcome to play with us. The lads had to give over to the gals for this medal and getting her second star was our May monthly medal winner, J.P. Thomas. She started playing golf about 2 years ago and has been

Golfers sunk at Pleasant Valley PSC Golf from Siam Country Resort Pattaya Monday, May 28, Pleasant Valley Stableford

Stan Rees & Dave Smith.

Read more news at pattayamail.com

On Monday we went to Pleasant Valley with 2 groups. The weather looked good and we looked forward to a nice game but arriving at the venue we were almost shocked bythe condition of the course. It was so awful wet that it was almost unplayable, but we decided to soldier on. We didn’t make great scores today and only Paddy Devereux didn’t seem to be impressed by the circumstances and delivered a regular score of 36 stableford points. Second on the day and six points back was Stan Rees with 30.

The near pins went to Stan Rees, Jonathan Pratt and Paddy Devereux.

Thursday, May 31, Pattavia - Stableford Pattavia was our venue on Thursday and the course was in very good condition and a pleasure to play. The weather was cloudy and we had a nice breeze to keep things comfortable. The man of the day was Dave Smith who won with 37 points. Second was again Stan Rees with 35 points, beating Jonathan Pratt on the last hole. The near pins were claimed by Willem Lasonder and Neil Harvey.

improving consistently to now play off 21, so kudos to J.P. We even had an extra small Antigua TGC shirt to fit her tiny frame!

Friday, June 1, The Emerald (white tees) – Medal 1st Bob Wade net 73 2nd Jeff Evans net 77 3rd Scott King net 79 What started out as a casual breakfast here at TGC ended up a mad rush to get in the van. Out of nowhere, a big downpour hit us just as we were loading up the golf bags so off we went a big more soggy than expected. We had a small turnout of just 2 groups today and greeted newbies from Australia on this trip. There was a group decision to change the format to medal play, even in these wet conditions, so for the next 6,024 yards, every shot counted! After the first 5 holes conditions improved greatly and for the rest of the day the course was in decent shape.

J.P. Thomas. Bob Wade was the leader of the Sydneysiders and his net 73 took first place. Second was Jeff Evans four back on 77 and my buddy from Tennessee, Scott King, nabbed third. Near pin was all Phil O’Halloran and everyone decided that the day should be for our Caddy Smile project so all prizes were given back to the cause. Thank you so much gentlemen. Phil even had a photo of his Emerald caddy Khwan as a future recipient so watch this space for her progress and treatment updates.

26 FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

PATTAYA MAIL

Woods happy with his game despite another Sunday fade

Harrison stays the course at Phoenix PSC Golf from the Pattaya Links Golf Society

Mitch Stacy Dublin, Ohio (AP) — Tiger Woods made it interesting again, but slipped from contention on the last day of a tournament. Despite being done in by some poor putting at the Memorial, he believes there still was valuable progress. “I keep getting a little better,” the 42-year-old Woods said after shooting an even-par 72 last Sunday at Muirfield Village. “Week in, week out, I keep getting just a little bit more fine-tuned. For instance this week, just to be able to make the slight adaptations after the first nine holes and be able to flip it around and shoot a respectable number.” Woods started the final round five shots off the lead, the third time this year he has been within five to start the last day and couldn’t turn it into a win. Bryson DeChambeau won the event in a playoff. Playing in the Memorial for the first time in three years, Woods birdied two of the first five holes Sunday before hitting from a fairway bunker on No. 6 to the rough in the back of the green. Still, he managed par. He hit his approach over the green on No. 7 and settled for par again. He couldn’t make up any ground on the par-3 No. 8, either, leaving his second shot just short of the hole. Missing a 3-foot par putt on No. 10 was a killer. He made a slick birdie on the par-5 No. 11, but missed a 7-foot birdie putt on No. 12, then hit his tee shot out of bounds on the 13th and finished with a bogey. He bogeyed the par-3 No. 16 when he missed another short putt, an unfortunate trend for Woods in a week when he was hitting the ball well off the tee. He now turns his attention to the U.S. Open starting June 14. “I just need to hit better putts,” he said. “This week I

VOL. XXVI No. 23

Wednesday, May 30, Phoenix - Stableford

Tiger Woods reads the green on the seventh hole during the final round of the Memorial golf tournament Sunday, June 3, in Dublin, Ohio. (AP Photo/David Dermer) didn’t really have, didn’t feel comfortable with my lines, and my feel was a little bit off. Consequently I missed a bunch of putts. But I hit it really good this week, so that’s a positive going into Shinnecock, where ball striking is going to be a must.” Moving up and then falling back has become a trend for Woods in his comeback bid. He was one shot behind going into the final round at the Valspar Championship in March and finished tied for second, a shot behind winner Paul Casey. He was five back at the Arnold Palmer Invitational the next week, but couldn’t do better than a tie for fifth, eight shots behind winner Rory McIlroy.

He knows he has to improve but is happy with his game overall, especially because before back surgery in April he didn’t know if he would ever walk again, let alone play competitive golf. “Overall, if I just keep building on this, with how I’m hitting it right now, I’m in good shape for two weeks from now,” he said.

1st Nigel Harrison (20) 37pts 2nd Mike Wang (8) 36pts 3rd Colin Service (20) 35pts 4th Tip Briney (21) 33pts The Pattaya Links Golf Society made the short trip to Phoenix on Wednesday in perfect golfing weather and found the course in true “PHX Mode”, with the white tees well forward, fairways no more than OK and greens where putting was almost “possible”. Most pins were tucked in corners of the green, within maybe six feet of the edge and in some cases only three feet. Of course, the majority were on the slopes running off the greens as well. It was even rumoured that the new pin-setter there is one Stevie Wonder. For the record, results showed that fourth place went to Tip Briney with 33 points, Colin Service took third with 35, Mike Wang was second on 36 and Nigel Harrison topped the list with 37 points.

Friday, June 1, The Emerald Stableford 1st Vito Cirelli (10) 36pts 2nd Livio Marrone (5) 36pts 3rd Colin Service (20) 32pts 4 th Mike Tottenham (22) 29pts The proposed stableford event at Emerald was very

Vito Cirelli (right) with Len Jones. much in doubt right up until the scheduled tee off time as we experienced the wettest May in years. Until 11am the round was in doubt with flooded greens and soft fairways but in the event the round began only six minutes late with greens already drying out. It was a miracle and full marks to the small field, splendidly stewarded by Colin Service, for their fortitude on the day and as a result a close contest ensued. Aussie golfer Mike Tottenham again made the frame with a fourth placed finish on 29 points whilst Colin Service again produced a good round,

finishing on 32 points in third place. Two Aussie/Italian golfers, Livio Marrone and Vito Cirelli, coming to the end of their first golfing experience in Thailand, went head-tohead over the eighteen holes with Vito’s extra point on the back nine just enough to take the win on countback, both with 36 points overall. There were no technicals on this day but Tip Briney would have qualified for the wig had Mr Phil been back from his break in UK. Tip is left to wonder whether it will be presented in retrospect when the boss returns next week.

Young wins his first monthly mug PSC Golf from The Growling Swan Monday, May 28, Silky Oak – Stableford 1st Keith Buchanan (15) 33pts 2nd Rudy Rgrenass (19) 32pts 3rd Steve Younger (12) 29pts 4th Denis Steele (15) 29pts Near Pins: #3 Denis Steele, #8 Rudy Regenass, #14 Denis Steele, #16 Keith Buchanan. All was peaceful as we boarded the bus and loaded the cars up for our next exciting adventure out to Silky Oak. What a magnificent course this is and it is still to be finished! With its 5 par threes and the par fives that all look impossible to conquer, it sets a challenge for all that dare to take it on. Not to mention the water carries! Our guys were not daunted by the fact that we were going from the yellow tees with the expanse of water in front of us and not aiming up from the front tees. The course was in great shape with superb fairways offering perfect lies for those who managed to reach them. The weather was not quiet with us, little or no breeze made it a bit uncomfortable as it was pretty warm.

Shane Young (left) with Gordon Clegg. Keith Buchanan set the pace for the day with his 33 points and claimed the bragging rights for yet another week. One point behind was Rudy Regenass while third past the post was Steve Younger, beating Denis Steele on countback after both returned with 29 points.

Thursday, May 31, Mt. Shadow – Monthly Mug/Stroke 1st Shane Young (26) net 70 2nd Gordon Clegg (25) net 70 3rd Alex Field (19) net 73 4th Mashi Kaneta (14) net 73 Near Pins: #5 Shane Young, #8Alex Field, #15 Bill Steinmann, #17 Bill Steinmann.

Long Putts: #9 Shane Young, #18 Mashi Kaneta. Not a big field but a good size group assembled to battle out the rights to take the coveted monthly mug. Mountain Shadow was our destination and despite the rain we have had we were still expecting conditions to be good for the day’s play. Well we were not let down as the course was in top nick. The greens had been cored recently and that is the only fault that could be found. We were to play from the white tees and with carts on course there was no need for lift clean & place. Shane Young got out of the blocks best and everything he did turned to gold. At the halfway mark he was streets ahead of his playing group and apart from Gordon Clegg he was showing most of the field a clean pair of heels. The Jock could not shake Gordon though and the result had to go to the countback before Shane was awarded the mug. Alex Field and Mashi finished third and fourth which was also decided by a countback.

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Parker the man for May PSC Golf from The Bunker Boys still finding his feet after a long layoff but obviously not far away from joining the winner’s list. In the race for golfer of the month, remarkably three players finished on fifty-one points and had to be separated by a very complex countback system. In the end, Geoff Parker was declared the winner after shading it from Jimmy Carr in second place and Neil Carter in third.

Monday, May 28, Treasure Hill – Stableford 1st Jimmy Carr (17) 30pts 2nd Les Hall (23) 30pts 3rd Steve Durey 29pts Treasure Hill was the venue for today’s round with a round dozen players in action. The course was in its usual fine condition but still no easier. Play was a bit slow over the front nine, nonetheless, the round was completed in good time. Today the weather played no part in the proceedings and the usual irritating fruit flies were not seen, nonetheless, scoring was on the low side. Jimmy Carr managed to gather himself up after a little mental disintegration on the front nine and collect first place with a very modest thirty points, beating Les Hall into second on countback. Steve Durey took third as well as two near pins, the remaining two going to Jimmy Carr and Mark Stanley.

Wednesday, May 30, Pleasant Valley – Stableford 1st Neil Carter (13) 38pts 2nd Alan Sullivan (16) 38pts 3rd Geoff Parker (13) 37pts The last round of the

DATE:

Geoff Parker. month was played at the Pleasant Valley course where once again rain interrupted the round and necessitated thirty minutes spent under shelter. This is a course that seems to be in continual upgrade mode, everywhere you look work is being done to improve the course. Night lights have already been installed, cart paths are being installed or upgraded, and much returfing is underway. One of the drawbacks of the

FRI 08 Eastern Star

Bunker Boys

Crystal Bay

SAT 09

course is poor drainage as the water from storms seems to sit on the course and not drain away as in other courses. As any one of five players could win golfer of the month going into today’s game the heat was on from the start with much to play for. Neil Carter took first place with thirty-eight points from Alan Sullivan on countback, with third going to Geoff Parker a point adrift. Near pins went to Neil Carter, Jimmy Carr, and two to Tony Robbins who is

SUN 10

1st Geoff Cox (19) 37pts 2nd Alan Sullivan (16) 33pts 3rd Les Cobban (8) 31pts In golf, as in life itself, timing is everything and so it was today at King’s Naga. Had we teed off at our scheduled time we would have been comfortably ensconced in the clubhouse waiting for a storm to pass. As it was, we teed off early and by the second hole we were running for shelter with lashing rain which lasted thirty minutes. When the rain cleared, the course was sodden due to the compacted nature of the soil and poor drainage. Casual water was everywhere and there was no run and balls plugged everywhere.

MON 11

TUE 12 Bangpra

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of what dengue fever does for your golf game people will soon be asking, where can I catch it. Four points adrift was Alan Sullivan who took second place, with Les Cobban a further two back. Near pins were shared between Geoff Cox, Les Cobban, Jimmy Carr, and Steve Durey.

Friday, June 1, King’s Naga – Stableford

Apple’s Irish

Colin’s Golf

To add to the challenge the greens were in need of mowing and very slow. None of this affected Geoff Cox, henceforth known as Lazarus, after his speedy recovery from a nasty bout of dengue fever. Geoff took it all in his stride to record a very nice round of thirtyseven. If this is an example

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The Bunker Boys meet at the M-Club off Pattaya 3rd Road for golf outings every Monday, Wednesday and Friday (www.bunkersociety.com). Transportation leaves from Cafe Kronborg on Soi Diana Inn at 8:15 a.m. on Mondays and Thursdays, (contact Bjarne, tel. 038 423203, 038 423809). Colin’s Bar plays golf Sun/Mon/Wed & Fri (www.colinsbar.com). The Growling Swan plays golf on Monday & Thursday (www.thegrowlingswan.com). 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. The Pattaya Links Hotel Golf Society departs from Soi Buakhao on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Call Phil on 0625 933 380 or visit www.thelinkshotelpattaya.com. The Golf Club is located on Soij LK Metro. Call Phil on 090 769 3778. Tropical Golf meets at BJ’s Holiday Lodge at 8am on Tuesday’ & Friday. Call Derek on 089 034 0629

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England beat Pakistan by innings Jutanugarn wins US Women’s and 55 runs in 2nd test Open on fourth playoff hole Leeds, England (AP) — England drew the two-match series against Pakistan with an emphatic innings and 55run victory within three days in the second and final test last Sunday. England, who got a meaningful first-innings lead of 189 runs, bundled out Pakistan for 134 before tea on the third day at Headingley. It was a remarkable turnaround of form from England, who lost the first test at Lord’s by nine wickets inside four days. Stuart Broad (3-28) and offspinner Dominic Bess (3-33) both snapped up three wickets while Pakistan’s top order was rattled by the experienced James Anderson (2-35). “We learnt quickly and adapted well to the conditions,” England captain Joe Root said. “We were below par (in the first test), we know that. We were down on confidence from a tough winter, but we came back and showed the character, showed we were a better side.” Earlier, Jos Buttler led the hosts to a big lead with an unbeaten 80 as England added a brisk 61 to their overnight 302-7 inside the first hour before being bowled out for 363. Pakistan paid a heavy price for dropping Buttler on 4 on the second day and his knock gave England an opportunity to put Pakistan’s inexperienced batting lineup under pressure. Buttler finally ran out of partners after hitting 11 fours and two sixes when last man Anderson was caught in the slips. Seamer Faheem Ashraf took 3-60 while the other three fast bowlers — Mohammad

David Brandt

Pakistan’s Haris Sohail is caught by England’s Dom Bess on day three of the second test match at Headingley, Leeds, Sunday June 3. (Nigel French/ PA via AP) Amir (2-72), Mohammad Abbas (2-78) and Hasan Ali (2-82) — shared six wickets among them. “We didn’t bat well in the first innings and credit to England bowlers,” said Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed, who won the toss but chose to bat, with his team bowled out for 174 in the first innings. “We were not as disciplined as we were in Lord’s ... and they bowled really very well.” Anderson used favorable bowling conditions effectively with his twin strikes before lunch as Pakistan wobbled at 48-3. Anderson uprooted Azhar Ali’s (11) middle stump before Bess took a splendid one-handed diving catch at short mid off to dismiss Haris Sohail (8). And just before the first session ended, England successfully went for a caught behind review against Asad Shafiq (5) as the replays showed Broad’s delivery had grazed the batsman’s

glove to give wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow a leg-side catch. Pakistan’s struggle continued in the second session as Bess claimed three wickets while Sam Curran celebrated his 20th birthday with the wicket of Shadab Khan. Imam-ul-Haq (34) and Usman Salahuddin (33) added 42 runs in a fourth-wicket stand before Pakistan lost their last seven wickets for 50 runs. Bess broke the stand in his first over when he had Imam leg before wicket and then Ashraf spooned a dolly catch at backward point off a top edge. Bess changed ends and terminated Usman’s resistance before Broad finished off the match with the last two wickets. In the only bad news for England, all-rounder Ben Stokes was ruled out of next weekend’s one-day international against Scotland and the start of the five-match ODI series against Australia. Stokes missed the second test against Pakistan due to a hamstring tear and will be replaced by Dawid Malan for the ODI against Scotland. In Stokes’ absence, Sam Billings has been added to England’s squad for the early part of the ODI series against Australia.

Birmingham, Ala. (AP) — In some of the bleakest moments during Ariya Jutanugarn’s back-nine collapse at the U.S. Women’s Open, the 22-year-old from Thailand would take a deep breath, smile to herself and think happy thoughts. The mind tricks weren’t working, but she wasn’t going to stop trying. Finally, after an excruciating few hours of golf, the positive vibes came true. Jutanugarn lost a seven-shot lead on the back nine before prevailing on the fourth hole of a playoff to win at Shoal Creek last Sunday for her second major championship. She made a nearly perfect bunker shot to within a foot of the cup on the tournamentclinching hole, beating South Korea’s Hyo-Joo Kim, who shot a 5-under 67 in the final round to force the playoff. It was not an easy up-anddown for Jutanugarn, who said she didn’t have a particularly good lie in the sand. Somehow, she kept her cool. “I felt pretty good,” Jutanugarn said about her mood before the shot. “I don’t know why.” She felt even better when the ball rolled close enough for an easy putt. A collapse that would have gone down in U.S. Women’s Open lore was about to be averted. Jutanugarn said support from her family and coaches helped her stay positive and come through with her ninth LPGA Tour win. “I know everything’s going to be the same and they’re going to love me the same,” Jutanugarn said. Jutanugarn started the day with a four-shot lead over Australia’s Sarah Jane Smith and looked like she might win easily after opening with a 4 under on the front nine to stretch her lead to seven shots. But a triple bogey on No. 10 cut the lead to four and rocked her confidence, especially with her 3-wood. She still had a two-shot lead with

Ariya Jutanugarn, of Thailand, holds up the trophy after winning a playoff during the final round of the U.S. Women’s Open golf tournament at Shoal Creek, Sunday, June 3, in Birmingham, Alabama. (AP Photo/Butch Dill) two holes remaining, but closed with back-to-back bogeys to fall into a playoff after shooting 73. Jutanugarn and Kim shot 11-under 277 in regulation. In the end, Jutanugarn’s slow-motion collapse set up an emotional victory and her second major win. She also won the Women’s British Open in 2016. The format for the playoff was a two-hole aggregate on 14 and 18, but the players were still tied after the two holes. The format then switched to sudden death, alternating between the same holes. Kim looked like she might win the two-hole aggregate after making a long birdie putt on 14 while Jutanugarn settled for par. But Kim made bogey — her first of the day — on 18 while Jutanugarn made par again to send the format to sudden death. On the fourth playoff hole at 18, both players went into greenside bunkers. Kim’s shot out of the bunker was decent, but Jutanugarn’s was phenomenal, rolling right next to cup and setting up an easy par putt. Kim missed her putt for par and Jutanugarn tapped in for the win, turning toward her caddie and family for a happy, tearful embrace. Jutanugarn looked nearly invincible during Saturday’s third round when she made her move into the lead with a 67, powering through the

soggy Shoal Creek course with ease. It was more of the same for a while Sunday when she extended her lead to seven shots. But things were about to get rough in a hurry. Jutanugarn hit her tee shot into the hazard on the 10th and then had a three-putt for a triple bogey. Her confidence shaken, she had another bogey on 12 and the tournament was suddenly much closer than anyone expected. While Jutanugarn was fading, the 22-year-old Kim was rolling. She made putt after putt to put pressure on Jutanugarn, including a 50-footer on 15 that pulled her within one shot of the lead. Like everyone else, she was shocked she was still in contention. “Honestly, I didn’t really worry too much about it because I just focused on how I was going to play,” Kim said through a translator. “It did not really enter my mind that I was going to come that close.” She couldn’t quite complete the comeback, which would have been the biggest in the final round in U.S. Women’s Open history. Smith, a 33-year-old from Australia, had a three-shot lead going into the weekend after back-to-back 67s, but finished the tournament with two straight disappointing rounds. She was in the final group with Jutanugarn, but had a 78 on Sunday to fall into a tie for fifth.

Lorenzo wins Italian GP ahead of Dovizioso, Rossi Scarperia, Italy (AP) — Jorge Lorenzo led virtually from start to finish to win the Italian Grand Prix last Sunday. Lorenzo surged ahead of pole sitter Valentino Rossi into the first turn at the Mugello circuit and quickly established a comfortable lead. Andrea Dovizioso, Lorenzo’s Ducati teammate, finished second, more than six seconds behind, and Rossi crossed third, just behind Dovizioso.

Championship leader Marc Marquez had just passed Rossi for second when he lost control of his bike and ended up on the dirt four laps into the 23-lap race. Marquez finished 16th. Still, Marquez leads Rossi by 23 points, with Maverick Vinales third, 28 points back. Vinales finished eighth. Miguel Oliveira won the Moto2 race and Jorge Martin won the Moto3 race.

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Spain’s rider Jorge Lorenzo of the Ducati Team (bottom) steers his motorcycle followed by Italian rider and teammate Andrea Dovizioso during the Italian Moto GP grand prix at the Mugello circuit in Scarperia, Italy, Sunday, June 3. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni)

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Infantino says FIFA can afford Brazil aim to change echo of Morocco to host 2026 WCup defeat to sound of celebration Graham Dunbar

Mauricio Savarese

Zurich (AP) — FIFA can afford to have Morocco host the 2026 World Cup, according to President Gianni Infantino, even if the rival North American bid promises billions of dollars more in revenue. Ahead of next week’s vote by FIFA member federations in Moscow, Infantino said: “FIFA can afford whatever the congress decides.” “We have to live with that and to make the best of any decision which is taken,” said the FIFA leader, who Moroccan bid leaders have publicly suspected of favoring the joint United StatesCanada-Mexico bid. In a FIFA panel’s evaluation of the candidates, the North American bid got the only maximum mark for its tickets and corporate hospitality sales plan. A difference in projected ticket sales of $1.3 billion between the two bids helped lead the report to note “significantly higher” forecast revenue of $14.3 billion from North Americans and $7.2 billion from Morocco. “Money is one element (but) not the only element” in the report, Infantino said, revealing that FIFA will top $6 billion income during the four-year financial period for the 2018 World Cup. The evaluation team also emphasized a significant overall risk posed by Morocco’s plan to build or renovate all of its stadiums, almost all team training sites, and many hotels.

Rio de Janeiro (AP) — There’s no chance Tite or any of his players will forget the score of Brazil’s humiliating semifinal loss at the last World Cup. Supporters of the Selecao still ensure it echoes in their ears: 7-1. As high-profile Brazil players walked off the pitch following a recent training session at Teresopolis, a few dozen disgruntled fans chanted “7-1.” That loss to Germany in the 2014 World Cup semifinals will be in the back of the minds of the Brazil players whenever they start a match in Russia, particularly the six who were involved in that squad. But the current group is very different from the group that flopped at home four years ago. After a series of changes implemented by coach Tite since September 2016, the five-time World Cup champions once again are considered title contenders. After hearing the negative chants at the training ground recently, four-time World Cup winner Mario Zagallo expressed optimism the humiliation could make Brazil stronger this time. “That 7-1 will sting forever,” the 86-year-old Zagallo told The Associated Press. “But Tite and Neymar give us hope again. In 2014 we didn’t have our best in the World Cup. Now players will fight for positions — the mindset has changed.” Tite took over as coach after Brazil had two troubled years under Dunga. A modern and disciplined tactician, he has insisted the national team openly confront its humiliation. With a new resolve, Brazil became so effective that they were the first team to qualify for Russia. His 4-14-1 tactics, sharpened after a series of conversations with Carlo Ancelotti, has shaped the right mix of players. Instead of low-scoring target man Fred, Brazil now have 21-year-old Gabriel Jesus up front. If the Manchester City striker underperforms, Tite

FIFA President Gianni Infantino (center right) watches the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Liverpool at the Olimpiyskiy Stadium in Kiev, Ukraine, Saturday, May 26. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin) “What our task has been is to make sure the process is as objective, as clear as possible, and to highlight the pros and the cons of everything,” Infantino said. Up to 207 voting federations, many of whom rely on the $1.5 million annual grant promised by FIFA over the next four years, can ignore the panel’s work. Infantino would not be drawn on whether U.S. President Donald Trump’s public comments could be a factor in the June 13 poll — either driving voters toward Morocco, or winning them with veiled threats of consequences for countries not supporting the American bid. FIFA will publish how federations voted. “I hope when they vote they think what is best for football, definitely not on other subjective criteria that they might have for themselves,” Infantino said. FIFA is heavily focused on two future World Cups at its annual congress even before the 2018 tournament

kicks off one day later. Infantino will ask members for permission to open talks on adding 16 more teams to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Hosting 48 teams could mean sharing games with other Middle East nations to find up to four extra stadiums Qatar currently does not plan to build. “Whether this is possible to be done only in Qatar, of course, is a question mark,” Infantino acknowledged, adding Qatar was never formally asked to host a 48team event alone. Any consultation on the 2022 World Cup must reach a decision by FIFA’s June 2019 congress, he said. The one-year deadline would begin during a blockade of Qatar begun one year ago by regional rivals including Saudi Arabia, who in that time have seemed more influential in FIFA’s business. “I think I have good relations with everyone in the (Gulf) region because I focus on football, and not on politics,” Infantino said.

Serena Williams pulls out of French Open, cites muscle injury Howard Fendrich Paris (AP) — Serena Williams tried to play through the pain of an injured chest muscle. Eventually, barely able to serve, she knew she had to call off her Grand Slam comeback. Williams pulled out of the French Open less than an hour before she was supposed to face Maria Sharapova in a fourth-round showdown Monday. The announcement came two days after the 36-year-old American initially felt something was wrong during a singles victory. But she hid that bit of information — even from her coach — and a day after Williams struggled through a doubles loss with her sister, Venus. This was Williams’ first major tournament in 16 months, and her first as a mother. She was pregnant when she won the Australian Open in January 2017 for her 23rd Grand Slam singles championship, the most for anyone during tennis’ 50-year professional era. Her baby was born last September. “I have given up so much to be here. There is times where I’m on the court and I’m practicing, and I look on the monitor, and I see my daughter and she’s playing, and I want to be there,” Williams said. “But I know that these are the sacrifices you have to make to live out your dream. And I have made every sacrifice that I could. So it’s extremely disappointing.”

Serena Williams of the U.S. returns a shot against Australia’s Ashleigh Barty during their second round match of the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros stadium in Paris, France, Thursday, May 31. (AP Photo/ Thibault Camus) Her voice trembled a bit during a brief news conference, where she explained she will get an MRI and consult with doctors before figuring out what comes next. “The fact that I physically can’t serve at all is a good indication that maybe I should just go back to the drawing board and stay positive,” Williams said, “and try to get better and not get it to a point where it could be a lot worse.”

Brazil’s Roberto Firmino (right) celebrates with teammate Neymar after scoring his side’s second goal during a friendly match against Croatia at Anfield Stadium in Liverpool, Sunday, June 3. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson) could still count on Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino, whereas four years ago Luiz Felipe Scolari had to count on Jo. The agile Philippe Coutinho has taken the spot occupied four years ago by Oscar, and 26-year-old Neymar — recovering from right foot surgery — has matured and offers a bigger threat in front of goal than in 2014. Brazil’s defense in 2018 is also superior to the 2014 lineup. Casemiro, a four-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid, has replaced Luiz Gustavo. Defender Marquinhos is more skilled than Dante and more secure than David Luiz, the two central defenders who contributed to Brazil’s big loss. After securing a spot at the World Cup, Tite turned his attention to a different objective: treating the psychological scars of the 7-1 defeat. “The first step is to play a friendly against them, wherever they want, in Germany,” Tite told the AP a year after getting the job. “We need to play away so we feel that weight.” Brazil beat Germany 1-0 in Berlin in March, despite having Neymar out injured. It was another step in the right direction for a team tasked with overcoming the most embarrassing loss in

the country’s proud football history. Marcelo, Fernandinho, Willian and Paulinho are the only Brazilians who played in that 2014 semifinal match and are still in the national team. Neymar was out with a fractured vertebrae and Thiago Silva was suspended. “That was the worst night of my life,” Fernandinho told TV Globo. “But now we have a chance to turn the table, try again. And we have a big chance to end it in a better fashion.” Despite Brazil’s good recent form, many fans remain apprehensive. Store managers have reported slow sales of Brazil flags and shirts. It could be because of the country’s long economy crisis, but it could also be that the confidence of the current group of players is still yet to reach most fans. Retiree Thomas Alves hasn’t given up, recently heading to a Rio de Janeiro shopping mall to buy a new TV “because I watched the 7-1 on the one I have now.” “If we don’t do well again, at least it won’t be another hammering,” he said, joking that he’d hand off the old TV set to somebody who supports a rival team. “Just in case, I will give my old one to an Argentinian friend.”

Reliability issues torment TR-Motorsport in Buriram From page 36 Due to his success in Race 1 additional weight was added to the DC5 for the second race of the weekend but Tony, with his years of racing experience, held off the chasing pack yet again to finish first in class and third overall. At only 17 years of age Victor Jensen has shown great

potential in the Super Production Class but a loose wheel nut on the formation lap led to a disappointing retirement before Race 1 had even started on Saturday. He was keen to make amends second time around and starting from the back of the grid in Race 2, the young Dane charged up the field and by lap four he was up to 5th position, however disaster

struck once again and a clutch failure forced him to retire from the race. The Unixx TR-Motorsport team will be looking to regroup and get back in the hunt for championship points at the Bang Saen Festival of Speed over the weekend 14-15 July. You can follow the team at website www.tr-motorsport. com or on Facebook.

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Masar ridden by jockey William Buick comes home to win the Investec Derby at Epsom Downs Racecourse in southern England, Saturday, June 2. (Adam Davy/PA via AP)

Spanish rider Jorge Lorenzo of the Ducati Team (right) steers his motorcycle followed by Italian rider Valentino Rossi of the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP at the Italian Moto GP grand prix at the Mugello circuit in Scarperia, Italy, Sunday, June 3. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni)

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (left) shoots against Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jordan Clarkson during the first half of Game 2 of basketball’s NBA Finals in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, June 3. (Ezra Shaw/Pool Photo via AP)

Japan’s Kei Nishikori returns the ball to Austria’s Dominic Thiem during their fourth round match of the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros stadium, Sunday, June 3, in Paris. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena)

Whitney Ashley of the United States competes in the women’s discus throw, part of the Diamond League Golden Gala athletics event at the Rome Olympic stadium, Thursday, May 31. (Claudio Peri/ANSA via AP)

Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin (center) of Russia, celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 3 of the NHL hockey Stanley Cup Final, Saturday, June 2, in Washington. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)

Michelle Wie watches while missing a putt during the third round of the U.S. Women’s Open golf tournament at Shoal Creek, Saturday, June 2, in Birmingham, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

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The Donald looks at auto import tariffs Christopher Bodeen

What’s it like to drive an F1 car? Team VDS Lola T 430.

Most motoring enthusiasts have driven a ‘performance’ car at some stage. Remember, however, that everything is relative, and in 1950 an MG TC sports was exciting with wind in the hair, and in 1964 an E-Type Jaguar had exhilarating acceleration leading us to joke that you needed additional oxygen to drive one. It also took seven seconds to get to 100 kph from rest. Then came the Lamborghini Diablo and posters on every workshop wall, and it ran out of breath about 250 km/h. Near F1 times? Not yet! I have driven all those performance cars, and I have driven F1 cars of the day. These were also known as Formula 5000, hulking great open wheel race cars with a five liter Chevrolet V8 stuffed in the rear with 500 horsepower, and the one I drove was a Lola T430, a special built for Count Van Der Straten (VDS) team. I was invited to drive the

Lola by its owner Bob Minogue, at the Calder race circuit outside Melbourne Australia. The drive starts with trying to fit into a single seater cockpit. There are no tubby single seater drivers (monoposto)! Next is to find where the controls and instruments are placed. That was when I found out that when turning, my hand obscured the rev counter, a very important piece of equipment. Knowing what revs and what gear is very necessary, these cars do not have a speedometer and you are sitting in the midst of noise, thumps, bangs and mechanical clatter just behind your head from the engine. Minogue described the drive as trying to throw a sledgehammer handle first, while sitting in a bath tub of petrol. Sitting in an F1 car (of the day) the front wheels are very much in your line of vision,

but as soon as you are moving, they become less intrusive. You are looking at where the front wheel needs to be placed relative to the apex. This is altered by the throttle opening, with the power available you can literally lift the front wheels towards the outside of the corner, giving classic understeer. To counteract this you brake as late as possible, as the weight transfer loads the front tyres, making them grip better and producing classic oversteer in the rear. You are looking for a balance at 160 km/h. F1 drivers can get very busy at times. For acceleration, the F1 car just gives you a relentless push in the back, all the way to peak revs, where you pull firmly on the gear lever to select the next higher gear up until the gearbox has no more and you are looking at 300 km/h. Even today’s F1 cars peak at around 320 km/h.

bar items, and the BBQ Grill on the terrace with bacon, ham, sausages, chicken and pork steaks, the egg station, hot dishes including two soups, one Asian and one Western, poultry, fish, pasta, hash browns (roesti) even baked beans. If you can fit it in, there are also desserts with caramel custard and the Oh so British Bread and Butter pudding amongst others. This BBQ breakfast can be yours at no charge with a voucher from Automania for being the first correct answer (Pattaya residents only I am afraid.)

Natter Nosh and Noggin The Pattaya car club meets at Jameson’s Irish Pub on Soi AR next to Nova Park. The next meeting is on Monday June 11 at Jameson’s at 7 p.m. A totally informal meeting of likeminded souls to discuss their pet motoring (and motorcycling) loves and hates (plus lies and outright exaggerations). Come along and meet the guys who have a common interest in cars and bikes, and enjoy the Jameson’s specials, washed down with a few beers. Always a fun night. The Car Club nights are only on the second Monday of the month (not every second Monday)!

How much does all this cost with no voucher? B. 235 plus 7 percent VAT, and this is for an all you can eat deal, making this a fantastic bargain. Quite honestly it is almost impossible to beat these breakfast and lunch offers, and while you are there, take a look at the a la carte menu which will surprise you with its very reasonable prices (and you can also eat a la carte during the buffets if you wish). Casa Pascal has always been one of our favorites, and comes Highly Recommended by the entire Automania Gerry-at-Rix Racing Team. Meet us there for breakfast one morning.

U.S. investigation, conduct a comprehensive assessment of the possible impact and firmly defend our legitimate rights and interests,” Gao told reporters at a news conference. China is a relatively minor player in the U.S. auto import market, ranked 10th in dollar terms, but its massive car industry is eager to expand abroad. In auto parts exports to the U.S., China was ranked second last year. A person familiar with the discussions said the president has suggested seeking new tariffs of 20 to 25 percent on automobile imports. Critics fear other countries will retaliate with trade sanctions of their own and question whether the move would ever be effective given the lengthy review required and legal challenges ahead. Associated Press writers Mari Yamaguchi and Yuri Kageyama in Tokyo contributed.

Tesla in Autopilot mode crashes into California police car It is never a good idea to run into a police car, in any country. That by itself is notable and newsworthy, but when your car is a Tesla, this is BIG news. The following item came down the wire from AP: Laguna Beach, Calif. (AP) - Authorities say a Tesla sedan in Autopilot mode has crashed into a parked police cruiser in Southern California. Police Sgt. Jim Cota says the officer was not in the cruiser during the crash Tuesday in Laguna Beach. He says the Tesla driver suffered minor injuries. The police SUV ended up with its two passenger-side wheels on a sidewalk. Tesla’s semi-autonomous Autopilot mode has come under scrutiny following other recent crashes. The carmaker says the function is not designed to avoid a

(Photo: Laguna Beach Police Department via AP) collision and warns drivers not to rely on it entirely. ENDS. It would seem that the entire world is resistant to change and the thought of an electric car that can drive itself has many people worried, and if you make your living

Autotrivia Quiz

Breakfast with Automania Where is the best breakfast in Pattaya? In my opinion it is the Casa Pascal BBQ breakfast buffet (which actually goes right through to lunch as well). The scope of Pascal’s breakfast defies description and currently there are over 50 items on offer covering bakery and pastry, dedicated breakfast items like waffles, pancakes and cereals and yoghurts, cold delicacies with smoked herring (from Pascal’s own smoker), pickled fish, ham, salami, pepper ham and mushroom, ham, cheese and several salads, many salad

Beijing (AP) - China, Japan and the European Union have condemned the Trump administration’s decision to launch an investigation into whether tariffs are needed on imports of vehicles and automotive parts into the United States. President Donald Trump invoked a provision authorizing the president to restrict imports and impose unlimited tariffs on national security grounds. The move is seen as an effort to gain a bargaining chip in stalled talks with Canada and Mexico over the North American Free Trade Agreement. Mexico is the top exporter of passenger vehicles and light trucks to the U.S followed by Japan, Canada, Germany and South Korea, according to the Department of Commerce. Japan’s minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Hiroshige

Seko, said Japan, which accounts for about 40 percent of U.S. vehicle imports, will continue to remind U.S. officials that any trade measures must conform to the rules of the World Trade Organization. If such a measure is taken, “it would be an extremely farreaching trade sanction that would put the global market into turmoil,” Seko said. “We are extremely concerned.” Germany’s association of industry groups said auto tariffs would be a “provocation” and “another nasty blow to our economic relations” with the United States. The EU executive said it would be against the rules of global trade. In Beijing, Commerce Ministry spokesman Gao Feng told reporters that abusing national security provisions would “undermine the multilateral trade system and disrupt the order of international trade.” “China will pay close attention to the progress of the

Last week I asked what do the Mitsuoka Orochi and the Chrysler Portofino have in common, not seen on ordinary cars? They both had gull wing doors. So to this week. Study the picture. This vehicle was built in 1888. However, its technology is up to the minute in many ways. Who built it? For a free beer at the next car Club meeting, be the first correct answer to email automania@ pattayamail.com or viacars@ gmail.com. And in addition, the closest correct answer will win a free voucher for Casa Pascal’s Breakfast BBQ if you are a Pattaya resident. Good luck!

as a taxi driver, I think I would be a little apprehensive too. However, with “ordinary” cars involved in crashes all the time (especially in Thailand), is the world downplaying one type of motoring, while noisily pointing fingers at the newer technology?

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Survivors of Grenfell Tower inferno offer heartfelt tributes Danica Kirka London (AP) - Ahmed Elgwahry stood outside Grenfell Tower with a phone to his ear and listened as his mother and sister died in the inferno that swept through the west London high-rise nearly a year ago. Elgwahry had raced across town after his sister Mariem, 27, called to tell him about the fire. But as soon as he arrived at the tower he knew that running inside would be suicide, so he called back and kept the line open, trying to comfort Mariem and their mother, Eslah, 64. “She started fading away from me rather rapidly, but she kept going all the way

until she was no longer audible. She started to mumble, started banging the floor, and then finally (was) no longer responsive,” Elgwahry said of his sister. “It was at this point I presumed I lost my mum at the same time. But then about 20 seconds later, for the first time that early morning, I heard my mum’s voice. She was struggling for breath and said her last words: ‘I can’t breathe, I can’t breathe.’” And then, he heard the crackle of the fire. Elgwahry’s account of what happened on June 14 was just one of the stories that gripped London over the past two weeks as friends and family members of the 72

A missing poster for Mariem Elgwahry aged 27, who died in the Grenfell Tower fire, still taped on display on a tribute wall near the tower. (AP Photo/ Matt Dunham)

This is an undated handout photo provided by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry of Mariem Elgwahry who died in the Grenfell Tower fire alongside her mother. (Grenfell Tower Inquiry via AP) victims of the Grenfell Tower inferno offered tributes during the first phase of a public inquiry. The inquiry, chaired by retired judge Martin Moore-Bick, seeks to establish the facts about what led up to the fire and make recommendations to prevent similar tragedies. Survivors were adamant that the investigation start with an understanding of who the victims were and that the pain suffered by loved ones be part of the report that will eventually be delivered to the prime minister. Moore-Bick agreed. “It is only right that this inquiry starts not with the study of combustible materials, fire spread and the building regulations - that will come soon enough -but with the individual human voices and faces of this tragedy,” he said as the hearings began. For those who lived in and around Grenfell Tower, a public housing block in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, keeping the victims at the heart of the inquiry is more than an exercise in public mourning. It is a way to ensure that the panel addresses

This is undated photo shows Paulos Tekle with his son, Isaac, in London. (Grenfell Tower Inquiry via AP)

out of my head,” Mussilhy told the inquiry. “The total blackness of the walls and melted light fixtures giving me an insight into the terror the survivors must have felt that night and the helplessness, the helplessness of the loved ones we lost.” Then he added: “So I ask you all here and everyone watching, when you go home tonight, hug your loved ones. Cherish every moment with them. Because until those in power listen and make changes to a system that

In this Wednesday, June 14, 2017 file photo, smoke and flames rise from the Grenfell Tower building on fire in London. London has been gripped by the accounts of friends and relatives of the 72 victims of the inferno at Grenfell Tower almost a year ago. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, File) criticism that the divide between rich and poor contributed to the disaster in one of London’s wealthiest areas. Karim Mussilhy captured the distress of Grenfell survivors when he told of seeing the smudged fingerprints of children and adults on the walls of the building’s single narrow staircase when he was allowed to visit the topfloor apartment where his uncle Hesham Rahman died. “I will never be able to get that picture of the staircase

Local resident Theresa Griffin arranges and places flowers beside a tribute wall near Grenfell Tower. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

In this Wednesday, June 14, 2017 file photo, a resident in a nearby building watches smoke rise from the Grenfell Tower. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, File)

In this Friday, June 16, 2017 file photo, people watch from a balcony as people walk during a demonstration following the fire. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland, File)

fails, until then, only God knows how many homes are safe in this country.” Criticism has focused on the local government council for failing to heed warnings about fire safety, the building’s manager for retrofitting the exterior with flammable insulation and a cladding system, and government officials for failing to implement safety recommendations for high-rise apartment blocks made after previous fires.

for him, his wife and two children was the same. It wasn’t until 2:15 a.m., 81 minutes after firefighters received the first call, that the family was told to leave. As the family made their way out of the building with neighbors, Isaac slipped away from the group. “Why we were kept inside for so long?” Tekle asked. “I want answers. If I had not listened to the fire brigade my son would have likely been alive today.” Marcio Gomes told the inquiry that his son, Logan, died when he was born two

During the personal tributes, that criticism extended to fire authorities who told people to remain in their apartments even as flames engulfed the building and made escape impossible. Paulos Tekle, who lost his 5-year-old son, Isaac, said he called the fire brigade after panicking neighbors told him flames were climbing up the outside of the building, but he was told to stay inside his 18th-floor apartment. He called again and again, but every time the message

months prematurely after his wife was left in a coma. Andreia Gomes has recovered. Both sobbed as Marcio displayed an ultrasound image of their son. “I held my son in my arms that evening hoping it was all a bad dream, wishing, praying for any kind of miracle, that he would just open his eyes, move, make a sound,” he said. “But as we know, that never happened.” There was also the pain of those who had little to bury, like Elgwahry. The coroner recovered only fragments of the bodies of his mother and sister, which were pieced back together “bone for bone, as if they were dinosaurs.” He said believed his sister could have made it out of the tower that night, but would not leave their mother. “The truth is, Mariem could have disconnected that call. But I’m forever grateful knowing that I was with her all the way and that I know she was with my mum,” Elgwahry said. “Even though I was not in that room with them, I felt as close as I could have been. Once again, she was thinking about others. We were all together, until that last breath.”

Work is carried out on the scaffold covered burnt out Grenfell Tower, Wednesday, May 30, 2018. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

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Events The next meeting of Pattaya City Expats Club (PCEC) will be on Sunday, June 10. “Fifflin’ Around,” a local group of friends and musicians who love playing bluegrass, fiddle tunes, and Irish traditional tunes will be the presenters for another PCEC Words and Music morning. The program starts at 10:30 a.m. with a buffet breakfast available from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on the 4th floor of the Holiday Inn’s Executive Tower, located behind the Holiday Inn’s Bay Tower on Beach Road. The spectacular 2018 Pattaya International Fireworks Festival will be held from June 8-9 at Central Pattaya Beach. Starting at 6 p.m. each evening, competing countries will put on short individual displays on the first day while longer 45 minute performances will take place on the second day. Vendors along the Beach Road will provide a multitude of food and refreshments for onlookers. Siam Bayshore Resort is organizing a World Oceans Day on Friday, June 8. Enjoy an exhibition on ocean conservation and how you can take steps to protect the environment and then head down to the beach in South

Pattaya to perform a communal clean-up. Make sure that you wear blue in support of the oceans. For more information, call 038 428 678. A Joint Chambers Eastern Seaboard networking evening will be held at the Holiday Inn Pattaya on Friday, June 15 from 6.30 p.m. – 9 p.m. (last drinks at 8.30 p.m.). Entrance cost is THB 500 on the door for members and THB 1000 for non-members. Admission includes free-flow drinks and finger food. For more information send email to greg@bccthai.com. The Pattaya International Ladies Club invites you to a Black & White Party at the Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya on June 23 beginning at 19.00 hrs. Enjoy a bubbly reception, buffet, disco, raffle prizes and a free flow of wine, beer and soft drinks: Price 1500 baht per person. Dress code Black & White. Email: specialeventspilc @gmail.com. YWCA Pattaya Center will hold the 6th Charity Walk-Run on Pattaya Beach on Saturday, June 16 with runners competing for Her Royal Highness Princess Somsawalee’s Cups. The races cover distances of 1.5km, 3km, 6km and 10km and admission cost is 400 baht. Proceeds

Fax: 038-427596

from the event will go towards charitable projects chosen by the YWCA. To register, visit website: https:/ /race.thai.run/ The Royal British Legion Thailand will be holding an Armed Forces Day the Tropical Bar in east Pattaya on Saturday, June 30. The British Military Attache, Colonel Roger Lewis and his wife Kimberley will be in attendance and there will also be some fantastic entertainment, a buffet and refreshments. For more information visit: www.facebook .com/royalbritishlegionthailand. The 2018 Pattaya Marathon will take place on Sunday, July 15 with a start and finish point on Pattaya Beach Road. The categories of competition include a full marathon (42.195km), half marathon (21km) quarter marathon (10km), wheelchair race and fun run. For registration details and more information call 038-253-127 or visit www. facebook/pattayamarathon. A Farmers’ Market takes place every 2nd Saturday of the month at the Holiday Inn hotel on Pattaya Beach Road from 10.30 am - 3.30 p.m. Products range from wellness items, jewelry, freshly prepared food, organic vegetables and fruits. The next market will be held June 9. A stamp market is held every Sunday from 10.00 a.m. till 3.00 p.m.at Rahnpintang Moe Kata Restaurant, Panji Place, on Soi Ponphraphanimit 7 (200m from the Bangkok Highway underpass). Here can you exchange stamps from the whole world. Call 089 091 3418 for more information and directions.

Dining Benihana Terrace Bar offers a ‘Shushi High Tea’ with fresh sushi and nigiri, California rolls and Temaki, all served with beautiful sea views. High tea served daily from 2pm – 5pm. Price: THB 750++ per set (for two). Benihana is located at the AVANI Pattaya Resort & Spa. Call 038 412 120.

Hard Rock’s Pattaya’s World Burger Tour is back and ready to take guests’ taste buds on an international flavor experience. In June, enjoy a choice of Aussie Burger from Australia, Olé Burger (Spain), Schnitzel Burger (Germany) and Whiskey Bacon Burger (Belgium). Hard Rock will also showcase the brand’s world-famous beverage menu made up of refreshing cocktails and non-alcoholic options. For more information on World Burger Tour and to contact Hard Rock Cafe Pattaya for menu details, call 038 426 635 or visit www. hardrock.com/cafes/pattaya. Special culinary nights at Persimmon restaurant, Pattana Golf Club & Resort: Pizza Pasta Night every Tuesday, 299 Baht; Seafood Night every Wednesday, 399 Baht; Carnivore Night every Friday, 499 Baht. Call for reservation at 038 318 999 ext. 11212/11230 or email restaurant@pattana.co.th. Buffet Theme Nights @ Coast: Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya. All buffet nights priced at only THB 999 net per person! Wild Wild West Mondays buffet serves a wide variety of dishes including steak, polar fresh seafood, salad, desserts buffet and ice cream every Monday night from 18.30 – 22.45 hrs. Asian Seafood BBQ, served every Tuesday night from 18.30-22.45 hrs, with a big selection. Enjoy a BBQ buffet specializing in Korean and Japanese cuisine every Wednesday night from 18.30 – 22.45 hrs. Hawaiian Seafood BBQ buffet spread includes a popular Hawaiian & Polynesian dance show every Thursday night from 18.30 – 22.45 hrs. Samba Night Fridays offer a Churrasco BBQ buffet and live Samba dance show every Friday night from 18.30 – 22.45 hrs. Coast Beach Club & Bistro is located on the beachfront of the hotel at Wong Amat Beach in North Pattaya. Call 038 301 234 for reservations.

In June, Hilton Pattaya invites you to experience a variety of special menus featuring free range chicken. ‘Flare’ Restaurant presents slow cooked free range chicken with Thai herbs at THB 650 net; ‘Drift’ Lobby Lounge & Bar introduces appetizers including deep fried free range chicken with Thai seasoning and herbs at THB 350 net and chicken in massaman curry served with French fries at THB 350 net. ‘Horizon’ Rooftop Restaurant and Bar recommends roasted free range chicken with truffle oil served with riceberry and quinoa pilaf, baby carrots, Shimeji mushrooms, and asparagus at THB 850 net. For more information or reservations, call 038-253-000 or bkkhp_fb@ hilton.com or pattaya.hilton.com. The Bay Grill & Buffet at Dusit Thani Pattaya: Dine with a sea view and enjoy seafood and meat barbecue accompanied by Thai and international items from soup, appetizers and main courses to dessert for only THB 1200++ per person. Free flowing beverage for additional THB 599++ per person. The Bay is open daily from 18:30 - 22:00. Call 038 425 611-7 ext. 2149 0r 2150 for more information and reservations. Big Fish restaurant at Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya enhances its seafood

buffet with a Thai marketplace theme: live stations offer traditional Thai cuisine in a unique atmosphere and include Thai salad, papaya salad, lemongrass & shrimp salad, Thai noodle served with beef/chicken and meat ball, pad Thai, fishcake served with chili-pickled cucumber and Thai dessert of mango with sticky rice, luk chub, woon bai toey, tup tim krob and more. All you can eat only at THB 400 net per person and enjoy a special welcome drink from the antique jar. Promotion daily from 12pm – 2.30pm. For more information and reservations call 038 930 600 or email to fbsec@siamatpattaya.com. The Thai Garden Terrace Restaurant offers nightly dining presentations with different themed “all you can eat” buffets at the resort poolside: Monday – Italian buffet; Tuesday – BBQ buffet; Wednesday – multi-cuisine buffet; Thursday – German buffet with roasted pig; Friday – Thai buffet; Saturday – international buffet; Sunday – steak & skewers buffet. The buffet starts from 6 p.m., runs until 9 p.m. All this for just 399 baht net per adult. 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 Continued on page 35

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The First Room Review Here’s a first for the Pattaya Mail Dining Out Team! Areview of a room. Yes, this is the Antechamber of Yupins Restaurant in the Jomtien Complex, a restaurant we have visited many times to review the food. But this time it is the antechamber, the room you have to go through to get into the restaurant that is being reviewed.

You can’t miss the sign. The review is not forArchitect’s Weekly either, but there has been so much happening in the antechamber recently that the International Builders Guild has shown interest in a center spread for their monthly glossy.

Replacing the previously open connecting area between the outside and the dining room is this newly refurbished antechamber. It may have had a roof, so one did not get wet, but you were still left to the vagaries of weather. Climate change at Yupins was not universally enjoyed, as well as the annoying vocal calls from the multitudinous greeters as you walked down through the complex. Finding elephants in rooms seems to be an international preoccupation these days, and while there is enough room in the new antechamber to swing several cats (no cats were injured in the course of this review), swinging an elephant is just a little too optimistic, though I am assured that a stationary pachyderm can be accommodated.

arrangements. It is worthwhile stopping in the antechamber just to take it all in. (For those non-UK readers, “Heath Robinson contraption” is perhaps more often used in relation to temporary fixes using ingenuity and whatever is to hand, often string and tape, or unlikely cannibalizations. The antechamber features all of those.)

change I have to report now is that while it may still be a single shop-house, but with the refurbished antechamber it is no longer “small sized.” After an unsuccessful elephant swinging exercise, we settled in and tried my old favorite, the sizzling garlic prawns, then washed down with the suggested New Zealand Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc 2016.

Half of a cow for three.

A genuine welcome.

Another advantage of the enclosed area is you are no longer at the whim of the rain god who seems to have a down on us every afternoon at present. Along with the décor there is a wonderful Heath Robinson “automatic” door closer with strings and plumb bobs, counterweights and floral

The end result of this architectural tour de force has been a doubling of the restaurant’s air conditioned capacity, and increases the chance of being able to walk in and find a seat. However, I do recommend that you ring and make a booking first. This is a very popular restaurant, for all the right elephantine reasons. Oh yes, the food! On our last official review I wrote “Despite the small size of the restaurant, Yupins gives a very large choice of excellent food and wine at moderate prices. Yupin can hold her head up high.” The only

We moved from there to a wonderful Australian grain fed Rib of Beef (large enough to be classified as half a cow), carved at the table plus vegetables, chips and more Sauvignon Blanc (B. 1495). This was shared easily between three people, making it a very inexpensive main course per head. Well done Ms. Yupin. I have to say we have never been disappointed at Yupins, covering the food, portion size and service. Well done again Ms. Yupin. So, for all the right reasons, Yupins is firmly embedded on our list of very highly recommended restaurants.

The lady herself in her kitchen. Do try, and say nice things about the antechamber and watch the Maître d’ get misty eyed. Egypt may have its pyramids and India its Taj Mahal, but we have got the Yupins Antechamber! Yupins, 413/42 Jomtien Complex, Thappraya Road. Parking inside the complex, or plenty street-side. For

those who travel with GPS, the coordinates are 12.901719, 100.869066 (not that you really need them to find Thappraya Road). Open six days 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. closed Wednesday. www.yupins.com, telephone 038 250 394 as bookings will be coming thick and fast for the antechamber experience. (Photos by Marisa Corness)

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From page 33 Resort is located on North Pattaya Road, 200 meters from the Dolphin roundabout and 200 meters before Tesco Lotus.

The happy BBQ chef at Thai Garden. Yupin’s Restaurant in Jomtien Complex offers some fabulous culinary options including slow roast soft pork stuffed with garlic and coriander, and served with an onion and red wine sauce, vegetables and a choice of

potato at only 395 baht or delicious fresh from the sea, jumbo tiger prawns served with a cream, parmesan and Malibu sauce, and vegetables or a choice of potato at only 495 baht. Special promotions include two set menus plus a bottle of wine for only 1,295 baht or order a two course meal between 6-7 PM and get a free glass of red or white or rosé wine or 250 baht off a house bottle of wine at 545 baht. For more information or reservations, call 038 250394 or visit website: www.yupins.com.

Delicious menu options at Yupin’s Restaurant. Linda’s Restaurant is large with seating for 200

Hong Kong Lettuce Wrappings Lettuce wrappings (Sangchoi bau) is a traditional Chinese dish. Originally made with minced pigeon meat in the lettuce wrapping, but these days, pork is used instead. Remember to wash the lettuce leaves well. A Chinese friend described three pigeons: 1 public nuisance, 2 carry mail and 3 for eating. This is not a quick dish, but well worth it for the novelty value if nothing else!

Cooking method: Heat three tablespoons of cooking oil and one teaspoon sesame oil in pan, add chopped onions, minced garlic and minced ginger. Stir on medium heat until cooked 3 minutes. Add pork mince, stir and break up with fork. Remove pork from pan as soon as it is cooked. Heat 3 more tablespoons cooking oil add chopped mushrooms, chestnuts and bamboo mix. Stir until cooked medium heat 5 – 6 minutes. Mix corn flour with a little cold water until smooth, add ginger wine (or sweet sherry), oyster sauce, soy sauce. Add mince and onion mix to mushroom mix in pan, stir well. Add corn flour sauce mixture. Cook on low heat – 6 minutes. Serve warm. Everyone places their own mince mixture in individual lettuce leaves, wrap up and eat.

Fax: 038-427596

people, with a covered al fresco verandah outside for those who wish to smoke. Inside, in air-conditioned comfort, there are comfortable chairs and decent sized tables, with white starched napery. The menu is large and covers northern European items, Scandinavian dishes and several pages covering Thai cuisine. Linda’s Restaurant, 315/177-180 Moo 12, opposite the Jomtien Complex. Thappraya Road, Jomtien. Open seven days from 7.30 a.m. until late. Tel: Reservations: 038 252 726, www. lindasrestaurant.com, streetside parking. Email linda@ lindasrestaurant.com . GPS 12.901655 N 100.869. Jameson’s Irish Pub offers daily food specials from Mon-Sat as well as fabulous Sunday roast dinners with all the trimmings, priced from 340 baht – 400 baht. Jameson’s Irish Pub is located on Soi Sukrudee (Soi A.R.) in Central Pattaya. Call 038 361 874 for more information or visit website: www.jamesonspattaya.com. Yamato Restaurant located on Soi Yamato has been around for more than 39 years and the soi was named after its oldest tenant. Just look for the Japanese characters on the blinds outside. You cannot miss it. The menu is pictorial, which is a must when trying a different cuisine/language. This is a restaurant to take a few people with you. The prices are certainly not over the top, and the quality is superb. Yamato Japanese restaurant, 219/51 Soi Yamato (13/1), close to Beach Road end, telephone 038 429 685 or 038 421 618. Open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. for dinner. On street parking (or do some shopping in the Avenue or Royal Garden Plaza). The legendary Somsakdi Restaurant has been in operation in Pattaya for more than 40 years. Proprietor and Chef Somsakdi is still cooking and running his amazing restaurant at 78 years of age. The menu is probably the largest in Pattaya, with 374 individual items. Each dish is in Thai with an English explanation underneath. Rather than be swamped by choices, let Somsakdi guide you. After all, who knows his dishes better than he? Somsakdi Restaurant, Pattaya Soi 1, tel. 038 428 987, 038 423 284, 038 429 869, limited parking plus onstreet parking in the soi. Hours 11 a.m. until 11 p.m., seven days.

Spa & Hotel Promotions The new Sawasdee ritual at Spa Cenvaree in Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya uses traditional Siamese massage with modern aromatherapy techniques and the uplifting properties of lime, lemongrass and plai for a completely refreshing all-in-one spa session. Priced at THB 2,800++ per person, the package includes a THB 300 retail voucher and is available throughout June. For reservations and more spa packages, call 038 301 234 ext 4333.

Entertainment The Asia International Guitar Festival & Competition will take place at the Sukosol Hotel in Bangkok from June 7-10. This year’s agenda includes master classes, guitar exhibits, competitions and concerts by acclaimed world-class musicians hailing from around the globe. Evening concert tickets are priced at 600 baht for adults and 400 baht for students (with valid I.D.), inclusive of coffee break. Afternoon concert tickets cost 300 baht for all audience members, excluding coffee break. Observers of master classes and competitions pay 200 baht. For more information call 022–470–123, ext 1916-1918, www.facebook .com/thailandguitarsociety. Enjoy great music from Thomas Reimer, one of the most famous European Jazz guitarists, playing live every evening (except Tuesday) from 6.00 p.m. - 10 p.m. at the Sugar Hut restaurant on Thappraya Road, call 038 364 186 for details.

Community Services The North Star Library on Sukhumvit Road, north Pattaya holds regular Thai language classes Mon - Fri from 10.30 a.m. 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

Groups & Associations Post 12146 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States of America (Ban Chang – U-Tapao, Thailand) meets the second Saturday of each month at 13:00 on the second floor of the Camel Pub in Ban Chang. If you are interested, please contact Membership Chairman Dan Morgan at banchang vfw12146membership@gmail .com or visit website: www. banchangvfwpost12146.org. The Royal British Legion Thailand meets the last Saturday of every month from 2 p.m. at the Tropical Bar on Soi Khao Noi (Watboonsampan near the Temple entrance) in East Pattaya. You do not need to have served in the Armed Forces to become a member and can join in the many social events arranged throughout the year. The Legion’s primary aim is the care and welfare of those who have served and/or their dependents. For general enquiries send email to secretary@rblthailand.org, www.rblthailand.org. Alcoholics Anonymous: The Pattaya Group meets Monday, Tuesday and Friday at 5 p.m., Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 7:30 p.m. All meetings are closed (alcoholics only) and are held at Soi Skaw Beach (off Pattaya 2nd Rd). Contact Carl 08-456-31-671. 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, Andrew 086 107 6631. 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. The Samaritans of Thailand 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. (02) 713-6791. Overeaters Anonymous The ‘Up to You’ group meets Wednesdays 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the housing area just behind Pan Pan Restaurant in Jomtien on Thappraya Road. Call Steve at 038-364-207(h) or 089-250-1359 (cell) for directions or more information. Narcotics Anonymous Hotline: 082 811 2686. 3 English speaking meetings in Pattaya near Central Festival and 2 in Jomtien each week. Also regular Thai speaking meetings at 12 noon every Sunday, and Persian Farsi speaking meetings at 5.30 pm on Thursdays. Please call the Hotline for details.

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36 FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

PATTAYA MAIL

Reliability issues torment TR-Motorsport in Buriram After the sweltering heat and humidity of Sepang in Malaysia, the Pattaya based Unixx TR-Motorsport Team travelled up to the Chang International Circuit in Buriram for Rounds 3 & 4 of the Thailand Super Series over the weekend June 1-3. Sepang proved a successful weekend with Denmark’s Thomas Raldorf and codriver Shaun Varney from New Zealand bringing home a good haul of points under difficult conditions. Rounds 3 & 4 would prove an even bigger challenge however as several new supercars had joined the GTM Class on the starting grid. This event would also mark the start of the season for the lower class cars in the TR-Motorsport team with veteran racer Tony Percy and the Honda Integra DC5 competing in the Super 2000/ Touring Car Class and the young Viking from Denmark, Victor Jensen, out to prove his

Tony Percy (front left) steers his Honda Integra DC5 through a corner at the Chang International Circuit during the Thailand Super Series event, Saturday, June 2 in Buriram. (Photo courtesy Thailand Super Series) worth in the Super Production Class with the Honda Jazz. The success of Sepang was soon forgotten as several issues were found to be affecting all three cars and work on the Porsche carried on until well into the next day as the gearbox and gear shifters were overhauled while the door was secured in place. With all the time spent on the

Jutanugarn wins US Women’s Open on fourth playoff hole

repairs no time was left to alter the setup in time for qualifying and this lack of time would prove costly. Tony Percy and Victor Jensen meanwhile soon got to grips with the Chang international circuit and by the end of the session Tony had qualified first in class. Victor came an impressive second in class, just narrowly missing out on first place. Unfortunately, this success could not be continued in the GTM Class as both Shaun and then Thomas struggled to find the right balance. Shaun battled hard to secure 7th in class for Race 1 while Thomas squeezed every inch out of the Porsche 997 to claim 5th in class for Race 2. Shaun Varney took the first stint in the 997 in Race 1 on Saturday while Thomas and the rest of the team watched on anxiously to see if the

issues had been fixed, but it was soon obvious they hadn’t. Despite the mechanical challenges, as the team made their pit stop Shaun had managed to get the car into a respectable 6th in class. The Danish Dynamo Thomas Raldorf then took over behind the wheel and with the benefit of several safety car periods, allowing for the field to bunch up, he was able to cross the line in 4th position. The celebrations were soon muted however as in the post-race scrutineering it was found that a technical issue had breached regulations resulting in the team being disqualified. With the improved setup and a 10-second reduction for their mandatory pit stop/ driver change, the team were confident of a top 3 position in Sunday’s Race 2. Thomas made a solid start and at the changeover all was looking good for a podium position until disaster struck. The issue with gearbox returned and Shaun was forced to nurse the car home to collect some much-needed points. Tony Percy had better luck for the team in the Honda Integra DC5 in the Touring Car Class and after taking a comfortable first in class pole position he followed up with a comfortable win in Race 1. His victory was a great achievement as only 24 hours earlier his number one K20 engine had to be replaced with his spare backup engine. Continued on page 29

VOL. XXVI No. 23

City hosts walk-run on Visaka Bucha Day

Participants set off on the Visaka Bucha Day walkrun from the Tourist Police Station on Pratamnak Hill, south Pattaya, Tuesday, May 29.

Jetsada Homklin Over 400 exercise buffs laced up their running shoes for a walk-run event around Pratamnak Hill on May 29 to mark Visaka Bucha Day. Starting from the Pattaya To u r i s t P o l i c e St a t i o n , participants had an option of competing in a 5km run or a more leisurely 3km stroll around the Big Buddha hill. The event was separated

into 4 different categories including men/women 25 years old and under and 46 years old up men/women. There was also a special category for students. Roads around the hill, from the bridge area were closed for the duration of the run. Winners in each category were presented with trophies in recognition of their endeavors while everyone who took part received a commemorative medal.

Runners are all smiles as they cross the start line.

Pattaya Marathon capped at 20k runners Warapun Jaikusol Ariya Jutanugarn, of Thailand, tees off on the second hole during the third round of the U.S. Women’s Open golf tournament at Shoal Creek, Saturday, June 2, in Birmingham, Alabama. Jutanugarn won the tournament after a four-hole playoff. (Turn to page 28 for a full report) (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

Pattaya city hall says it expects to imminently announce organizers for this year’s Pattaya Marathon, but the field is likely to be capped at no more than 20,000 runners. Pradit Thongchai, head of the Sports and Tourism Development Division Pattaya,

told the media that there has been a great deal of interest from the general public in the event but as of June 1 the city had still yet to secure the services of race organizing company. City hall earlier stepped in to accept race registrations in the absence of an official organizer but this led to its own issues, with the

administration’s servers failing due to the number of registrars exceeding expectations. The process has now stalled until an organizer has been appointed, at which point the city says it will transfer over all the applicants it has registered so far. This has left many athletes in limbo, not being sure if

they will be included in this year’s race which is set to take place on July 15. Not surprisingly, complaints to city hall have been on the rise. At present the number of participants will be limited to 20,000 but officials say this could change once a race organizer is installed and the situation is reviewed.

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