Pattaya Mail - FRIDAY JANUARY 25 - JANUARY 31, 2019 (Vol. XXVII No. 4) by Pattaya Mail Media Group

26th Year

Established in 1993

VOL.XXVII No. 4

Pattaya’s First English Language Newspaper

FRIDAY JANUARY 25 - JANUARY 31, 2019

30 BAHT

Belarus ‘Sex trainer’ who claimed dirt on Trump deported, arrested in Russia City hall: Pattaya’s air not as bad as it looks Pattaya Mail Team Pattaya’s air is not as unhealthy as it has looked. That was the message city officials were trying to get out Jan. 17 after blue skies disappeared under a blanket of white haze. Clear skies had returned by that date. While the pollution looked like the dangerous cloud that has hung over Bangkok and surrounding provinces for weeks, it didn’t contain the same quantity of microscopic dust that has created hazardous health conditions in the capital, Deputy Mayor Poramet Ngampichet said. Particulate matter 2.5 microns in size or smaller is dangerous because the human-respiratory system (and most masks) cannot filter the dust before it

reaches the lungs. A level of more than 50 micrograms a cubic meter is considered hazardous. Pattaya actually has been unable to measure air quality for years, despite having a truck outfitted with meteorological instruments. The problem? There’s no one employed in city hall that knows how to use it. Environment Department chief Sutee Tubnonghee said Pattaya spent 10 million baht in 2005 for the vehicle but never maintained it. In 2012, the employee assigned to it was transferred to another department. Sutee said the equipment now has been repaired, but there’s no one that knows how to run it. And even if there was, the technology is obsolete. Continued on page 3

Belarusian Anastasia Vashukevich is escorted by Thai Immigration police from the Immigration Detention Center towards a vehicle to take her to an airport for deportation in Bangkok, Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019. The Belarusian escort, also known as Nastya Rybka, who claimed to have incriminating evidence against U.S. President Donald Trump after her arrest in Pattaya for participating in a Russian “sex training” course, has been deported. She was arrested as soon as she deplaned in Moscow. (Full story on page 3.) (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

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Naklua bridge sound, but repairs needed Pattaya Deputy Mayor Pattana Boonsawat checked a section of the recently renovated Naklua long bridge that still is failing due to old age. City engineers surveyed the structure, which had been reinforced and repainted, Jan. 13 following social-media complaints that some of the bridge is still falling apart. Pattana assured everyone that the bridge’s structure is sound and the complaints were unfounded. However, the bridge neck on the Naklua Market side has two damaged posts. He said the Engineering Department already was

City engineers surveyed the Naklua long bridge and assured everyone that the bridge’s structure is sound but need repairs.

assigned to repair the aging posts and reinforce them with steel and concrete. The

neck also will be repaved and parking areas near it added. (PCPR)

Seminar educates Pattaya students, women about domestic violence

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Pattaya to celebrate Chinese New Year on Walking Street, Central Festival Pattaya’s celebration for Chinese New Year is so big, two venues were needed. The Feb. 5 festival will take place at Central Festival Pattaya Beach and on Walking Street. At the beachfront mall, a guzheng musical-instrument performance will open the show, followed by opening remarks from Mayor Sonthaya Kunplome. At 8pm dances by dragons and lions will precede an acrobat performance. At 8:30 p.m. Chinese cultural and arts performances will take the stage followed by music at 9 p.m. Finally, at 10:30 p.m. music act Getsunova will perform. The guzheng music also starts the event on Walking Street at 6 p.m. followed by dragon and lion dances, cultural shows and acrobats. (PCPR) Pattaya’s Chinese New Year celebrations will feature cultural performances, a concert and lion and dragon dances.

Election commissioner briefs PBTA

Deputy Mayor Banlue Kullavanijaya, social development chief Panee Limcharoen, Wisit Pondok and his team from the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development opened the city hall seminar aimed at eliminating domestic violence against women and children.

Pattaya students and social workers learned how better to look out for and eliminate domestic violence against women and children at a city hall seminar. Deputy Mayor Banlue Kullavanijaya opened the Jan. 17-18 seminar with social development chief Panee Limcharoen. Wisit Pondok and his team from the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development spoke to the 100 students and 100 other social workers, women’s advocates and others about the history of domestic violence in Thailand and what can be done to eradicate it.

Battering of wives and children has been a chronic problem in Thailand for generations, but in recent years the abuse has become more severe with some cases ending in mass murder, as has happened twice in Thailand since New Year’s Eve. Abuse, participants were told, can be physical, mental, verbal, or sexual and, too often, society viewed abuse as a personal matter and refused to get involved. Lecturers educated those attending on the Domestic Violence Victim Protection Act of 2007 and the Child Protection Act of 2003 so women and youths know their rights and protections. (PCPR)

Akom Janpen of the Chonburi Election Commission said people should be vigilant as private groups will try to influence the upcoming election.

Jetsada Homklin The Pattaya Business and Tourism Association was encouraged to lobby members and the public to vote freely and independently whenever the country’s next general election occurs. Speaking to the PBTA’s

Jan. 17 meeting at the Green Park Resort, Akom Janpen of the Chonburi Election Commission said private groups will try to influence the election, so people should be vigilant not to become their puppets. This also includes selling votes to political parties. Such behavior cannot occur if the elections are to be successful, Akom said. Elections slated for Feb. 24 could now be postponed for the fifth time until March 24,

according to Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Kreangam, who claims the February date would interfere with planning for the HM the King’s May coronation ceremony. Protests have erupted in Bangkok since rumors of the delay began weeks ago. The PBTA also reviewed the tourism schedule for January and February and received an update on Pattaya’s official Line messaging app account.

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Belarus ‘Sex trainer’ who claimed dirt on Trump deported, arrested in Russia Teerarak Suthathiwong A Belarusian escort who claimed to have incriminating evidence against U.S. President Donald Trump after her arrest in Pattaya for participating in a Russian “sex training” course has been deported.

Anastasia Vashukevich, who went by the name Nastya Rybka online, claimed to have photographic and video evidence of Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election. Specifically, she said the evidence relates to ties between her married lover, Russian aluminum

oligarch Oleg Deripaska, and Paul Manafort, Trump’s former campaign chairman convicted as part of the investigation run by Robert Mueller, the special counsel investigating claims of Trump-Moscow collusion. After 10 months behind bars at Pattaya Remand

City hall: Pattaya’s air not as bad as it looks

Pattaya actually has been unable to measure air quality for years, despite having a truck outfitted with meteorological instruments. The problem? It fell into disrepair, and even when fixed, there’s no one employed at city hall that knows how to use it.

From page 1 So Pattaya has outsourced its air-quality work to Chata Instrument Co., which has installed measuring devices at city hall and at the Pratamnak Hill viewpoint. Poramet said the equipment on Pratamnak Hill was installed on Jan. 6 and, that

day, it registered PM 2.5 air quality of 25 μg/m³. The equipment remains under testing and more readings will be taken regularly, he added. Readings taken at city hall Jan. 17 measured 23.84, which officials called good for outside activities. Nonetheless, the dust in the air has prompted city hall

to take steps to ensure it doesn’t get worse. On Jan. 17 city workers hosed down the Naklua long bridge, the site of the Naklua Walk & Eat and a busy truck-traffic route. Sand and soil often gets dropped along the route, causing it to be thrown into the air when driven over.

Prison she and eight others, including Aleksandr Kirillov, a self-styled “sex guru” who goes by Alex Lesley online, were arrested in February last year on prostitution and immigration charges. They were sentenced to 18 months in prison and 100,000 baht in fines. Earlier this month a judge cut the jail sentence in half, gave them credit for time served and ordered their deportation. Vashukevich claimed she would be killed if she was deported back to Russia after she told the media she would tell all to U.S. investigators about Trump-Russian collusion if America granted her asylum and got her out of jail. Washington wasn’t interested. She was booked on a plane to Minsk, Belarus, but there are no direct flights from Bangkok and she had to change planes in Moscow. As soon as she deplaned she was arrested. Vashukevich appeared in a Moscow court on Jan. 19 to face charges of inducement to prostitution. Before the judge she apologized and vowed not to say another word about the Deripaska, the supposed tape or Trump. Nonetheless, the court ordered her held for at least another three days.

Anastasia Vashukevich, also known on social media as Nastya Rybka is escorted in the court room in Moscow, Russia, Saturday, Jan. 19, 2019. She was arrested upon arrival in Moscow following deportation from Thailand. (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)

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Filipina buskers busted for bogus charity fundraising Boonlua Chatree Three Filipina fraudsters claiming to raise money for a children’s charity were arrested while busking in Pattaya. Belinda Austria Toledo, 55, Jesica Bayutas Ortega, 50, and Ruthie Espina Babila, 38, were taken into custody outside beer bars on Petchtakul Road by Tourist and Immigration police Jan. 17. Officers seized 10 notebooks full of donors’ names, a guitar, 5,690 baht and two boxes of cakes with a sign soliciting donations. The women claimed to be raising funds for the Children’s Joy Foundation and strolled through Pattaya

Motorcycle-taxi driver brings government wrath down on coworkers with online vest sale offer Boonlua Chatree

Belinda Austria Toledo, Jesica Bayutas Ortega and Ruthie Espina Babila were taken into custody for claiming to raise money for a children’s charity.

playing songs, selling cake and showing documents supposedly verifying the legitimacy of the organization. The problem was that the foundation doesn’t exist and the women didn’t have a work permit or license to

solicit funds for charity. The suspects told police they had been doing this for years and, in three hours in Pattaya, had collected more than 5,000 baht. They will be prosecuted and deported.

Police insist no Chinese mafia in Pattaya Boonlua Chatree Just as they did during the peak of the area’s Russiantourism boom, local law enforcement officials again are insisting there is no Chinese organized crime in Pattaya. Top Pattaya, Tourist and Immigration police officers asserted that there are no “mafia” or “triad” gangs operating in Pattaya, despite recent Thai media claims to the contrary following a brawl among Chinese nationals in a Pattaya restaurant. Most Chinese come to Pattaya in tour groups and don’t operate businesses here, Pattaya’s police chief Pol. Col. Apichai Kroppech said. Tourist Pol. Lt. Col. Piyapong Ensarn said there were some Chinese business owners, but most operated restaurants while others have companies in Bangkok. Deputy Chonburi Immigration chief Pol. Lt. Col. Thawatchai Nongbua said Chinese expats were mostly tour operators. The police denials mirror those done by law enforcement and city administrators back in 2013, when Pattaya was as overrun by Russians as it now is by Chinese. Numerous arrests of Russian mafia fugitives fueled a steady stream of reports about Moscow organized crime gangs operating in farout Jomtien Beach. The heads of the Chonburi Immigration Office, Banglamung District, Pattaya

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A Pattaya motorcycle taxi driver was arrested for allegedly trying to sell his licensed vest on Facebook for 120,000 baht. Banglamung-based National Council for Peace and Order officers, Pattaya police and Chonburi Land Transport Department officials swooped down on the motorcycle-taxi stand outside the White Rose Mansion on Soi Yensabai Jan. 19. Driver Pornthep Jampangam, 39, was taken into custody for posting the ad, offering his vest, which he claimed would earn people 1,000 baht a day in earnings. He confessed to police that he’d been driving a motorcycle taxi for 10 years and wanted to retire and wanted to sell the vest to have money to go back home. While they were there, land

Pattaya motorcycle taxi driver Pornthep Jampangam was arrested for allegedly trying to sell his licensed vest on Facebook for 120,000 baht.

transport officials checked Pornthep’s 13 co-workers and found they were using the wrong type of motorcycles, weren’t dressed properly and other offenses. All were sent to the Banglamung District office for corrective action and training. Department inspector

Wasu Mongkolkaew said the LTD works strenuously to keep corruption out of the motorcycle taxi business which is why selling registered vests and licenses is outlawed. He said the entire motorcycle kiosk may be shut down and the drivers suspended.

Luck runs out for Sattahip lottery seller Tourist police arrested several Chinese fighters and charged them with disturbing the peace and assault.

Tourist Police, and the Pattaya Business & Tourism Association, joined top officials from police stations in Chonburi, Nongprue, Banglamung and Pattaya and representatives from the National Intelligence Agency and Internal Security Operational Command on July 31, 2013 to condemn local media reports about crimes by both foreigners and Thais. They complained the media was sensationalizing crimes and even distorting facts to make matters sound worse than they really were. “I’ve not seen a real mafia criminal in Pattaya since (1998),” then PBTA President and now Pattaya City Councilman Sinchai Wattanasartsathorn said at the time. Two months later, a Ukrainian mobster was arrested and charged with orchestrating the kidnapping of a compatriot in Pattaya who supposedly owed him money. Two more fugitive Russian

mafia gangsters were captured here in the year after that. The Russian tide has ebbed and now Chinese make up the bulk of the visitors to Pattaya, followed by Russians and Indians, with Germans and Britons far behind, Piyapong said. Apichai noted 13 million visitors came to Pattaya last year, 3 million of them Chinese. Naturally, he said, some normal disagreements will break out, such as the restaurant argument that turned into fisticuffs. Police broke up the fight, but the two warring sides arranged to meet up again and, that time, two people ended up in Pattaya Memorial Hospital. Tourist police arrested several of the fighters and charged them with disturbing the peace and assault. The Pattaya Provincial Court denied bail and they remain in Pattaya Remand Prison until they are prosecuted, deported and blacklisted, Apichai said.

Patcharapol Panrak Luck ran out for an underground lottery vendor busted in Sattahip. Taranee Auiaimsub, 58, was captured in a sting operation at her Soi Rungroj home Jan. 17. She was caught red-handed with illegal lottery tickets and the cash an informant used to buy them. Taranee confessed that she was an agent for a larger underground lottery operator and this was the first time she’d been arrested. Ironically, she told police she had just returned from praying for good luck at Sattahip Temple.

Taranee Auiaimsub was caught red-handed with illegal lottery tickets and the cash an informant used to buy them.

Motorcyclists break limbs in Sattahip wreck Patcharapol Panrak Two people were injured when they plowed their motorcycle into the side of an SUV making a U-turn in Sattahip. Driver Manoon Reungrit, 25, suffered a broken arm and passenger Parita Moontama, 26, broke both legs when their 300-cc Benelli 302R slammed into left side of a Mitsubishi Pajero driven by Walaporn Mutchaporn, 44. They were rushed form the accident scene at the 173-kilometer marker on Sukhumvit Road to Queen Sirikit Naval Medical Center. Walaporn said she made the U-turn and never saw the motorcycle.

Two people were injured when they plowed their motorcycle into the side of an SUV making a Uturn in Sattahip.

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SRRT to distribute pollution masks

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Navy honors 36 sailors killed in 1941 Battle of Koh Chang Patcharapol Panrak

Pattaya public-health volunteers have begun distributing certified face masks for people suffering from recent air pollution.

Warapun Jaikusol Pattaya public-health volunteers have begun distributing certified face masks for people suffering from recent air pollution. Surveillance and Rapid Response Team members prepared the N96 carbon-filtered masks following a prolonged spike in micro-dust pollution. Pattaya Public Health Department nurse Naanya Jantrakad explained that the N95 masks are necessary as regular masks – and even the human-respiratory system – cannot filter out particulate matter 2.5 microns in size or smaller.

The dust, caused by smoke from engine exhausts, large construction projects and factories, has been choking Bangkok and its surrounding provinces for weeks with the effects spreading to Pattaya, although public-health officials called the pollution less severe than in the capital. Nonetheless, the volunteers were taught what respiratory-ailment symptoms to look out for in their neighborhoods and to distribute masks where necessary. Those most at risk are seniors, small children, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions.

The Royal Thai Navy honored 36 sailors who died 78 years ago in the Franco-Thai War’s Battle of Koh Chang. Adm. Noppadol Supakorn, commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Fleet, presided over the Jan. 17 service at the Koh Chang Naval Battle Monument in Trat with Gov. Prasert Luachathananon and top local officials. The ceremony included a religious service, release of marine animals to make merit and the floating of a wreath for the sailors aboard the coastal defense ship and two torpedo boats that were sunk by the Vichy French navy off Koh Lim before dawn on Jan. 17, 1941. While much of the world was engaged in World War II, Thailand still had not entered the war. But after Germany occupied France and installed the Vichy government, then-Prime Minister Maj. Gen. Plaek “Phibun” Pibulsonggram saw France’s weakened state a perfect time to invade French Indochina and reclaim parts of Cambodia and Laos lost to the French in the 1893 Franco-Siamese War. The larger Thai army and the more-powerful Royal

Adm. Noppadol Supakorn, commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Fleet, prepares to float of a wreath in memory of the sailors aboard the coastal defense ship and two torpedo boats sunk by the Vichy French navy off Koh Lim before dawn on Jan. 17, 1941.

Thai Air Force began trampling the French along the Cambodian border. The war, in fact, was going so badly for the French that Indochina Gov. Adm. Jean Decoux decided the only way to counterattack was a surprise attack on the inferior Thai navy at Koh Chang. The French caught the Thai navy sleeping before dawn Jan. 17, quickly sinking the two torpedo boats, the HTMS

Songkla and HTMS Chonburi, killing a total 16 sailors. A sustained attack upon the Japanese-built HTMS Thonburi left it incapacitated and in flames, with 30 sailors killed. The French navy suffered only 11 deaths and won the tactical battle, but failed to capitalize on the victory after the Japanese intervened and brokered an end to the war. Under the accord, Thailand reclaimed six Cambodian

provinces, including Siem Reap and Preah Vihear; plus parts of Luang Prabang in Laos and other territories in that country. However, its gains would be short-lived as on Dec. 8, 1941 – 90 minutes before Japan bombed Pearl Harbor – it invaded Thailand. In the eventual peace treaty with Japan, Thailand was forced to return all its Cambodian and Laos land to France.

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572 masseuses confirm training, registration

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Khao Talo dog lover told to relocate 10 canines Jetsada Homklin

During a city hall meeting nearly 600 Pattaya and Jomtien beach masseuses were checked to ensure they’re properly trained and registered.

Nearly 600 Pattaya and Jomtien beach masseuses were checked to ensure they’re properly trained and registered at a city hall meeting. Mayor Sonthaya Kunplome opened the annual general meeting for the three massage organizations in Pattaya, Dongtan and Jomtien beach

zones Jan. 16. Registrations were checked and renewed for the 572 massage therapists. They also presented proof they reside in Banglamung District and hold accreditation from a traditional Thai massage institute certified by the Ministry of Public Health. The masseuses and masseurs

also were invited to participate in the a local sports competition at the Pattaya Youth Sports Center Feb. 13, the Jomtien Fun Run and beach yoga on Feb. 26, and a Beach Umbrella Club blood drive at Redemptorist Technological College May 27. (PCPR)

East Pattaya villagers told to stop feeding stray dogs

Residents of a Soi Khao Noi housing development were told to collect garbage twice-weekly and stop feeding stray dogs following a raft of complaints.

Jetsada Homklin Residents of a Soi Khao Noi housing development were told to collect garbage twice-weekly and stop feeding stray dogs following a

raft of complaints. Nongprue deputy mayors Niyom Thiengtham and Suwat Rachatawattanakul visited Eakmongkol 4/1 Village Jan. 19 following complaints from both Thais and foreigners

about garbage and wild dogs. The village council agreed to push residents to stop feeding strays and control their own pets. Furthermore, trash collection would be increased to twice a week to mitigate the smell and pollution from refuse. Residents also want all village roads opened for use and more security guards.

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 Deputy Managing Director Kamolthep Malhotra e-mail: prince@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 Advertising Department Nutsara Duangsri e-mail: nutsara@pattayamail.com News Department: Boonlua Chatree, Urasin Khantaraphan, Patcharapol Panrak, Theerarak Suthathiwong © Copyright Pattaya Mail Publishing Co., Ltd. (e-mail: newsdesk@pattayamail.com)

A Soi Khao Talo woman with 10 dogs has been told to move the animals or herself. Khao Talo Community President Somkiat Dechpaiboon and Nongprue Pol. Maj. Chatchai Rakkwamchob took Pattaya public-health officers to inspect the Wannathip 5 Village home Jan. 15 following a petition from 19 neighbors who said they’ve been dealing for years with incessant barking and the smell of feces. The homeowner, identified only as “Da”, said she is a fervent dog lover and had initially raised seven dogs, although the population has swelled. But she admitted she works a lot and is often away, leaving the dogs and the yard unattended. However, she cannot afford to keep the dogs in a

Da, a Soi Khao Talo woman with 10 dogs, has been told to move the animals or herself, or else she would be prosecuted.

kennel and fears it would be unsafe for them anyway. Chatchai showed Da the petition and said she must either move, relocate the dogs or find a solution that will solve the problem or else she would be prosecuted.

Da grudgingly said she might try to find a public dog shelter or new owners, but again complained that she feared for the dogs’ well-being. She coaxed officials into giving her more time, agreeing to another meeting on Jan. 23.

Pattaya pushes for on-time completion of Naklua roadwork Pattaya officials urged a contractor rebuilding Naklua Soi 17 to finish the project on time. Deputy Mayor Pattana Boonsawat and city engineers surveyed work being done by Boonkitthana Co. on the road linking Soi Photisan with the Hua Tung Community. The 1.6-million-baht project begun Nov. 3 will see a new reinforced-concrete road built with 3-5-meterwide sewers underneath. The 505-sq.-meter project is slated to finish by March 2. Pattana acknowledged complaints from businesses along the road that their trade has been damaged by all the roadwork. While

Deputy Mayor Pattana Boonsawat and city engineers survey work being done by Boonkitthana Co. on the road linking Soi Photisan with the Hua Tung Community.

Boonkitthana appears to be on schedule, the deputy mayor explained the problems to

the contractor and urged workers to finish the job on time. (PCPR)

More driver caution urged around Pornprapanimit 18 roadwork Jetsada Homklin Drivers were urged to slow down and drive carefully around roadwork underway on Soi Pornprapanimit 18. Surin Thonglai, president of the Ban Lang Community, said many accidents have occurred since construction of a new drainage system at the mouth of the street began in October. Construction is expected to continue through February, so he implored drivers to take it easy when moving through the neighborhood. Workers are laying reinforced concrete square drainage pipes between the beginning of the soi through the bridge connecting Ban Lang Pa Wan and Pornprapanimit Road.

Drivers were urged to slow down and drive carefully around roadwork underway on Soi Pornprapanimit 18.

The entirety of Soi Pornprapanimit 18 has been closed for the work with heavy machinery, a back hoe, and 10wheeled trucks driving in and out to adjust the surface.

A detour to enter to Ban Lang Community was set up with the entrance at the next soi and runs through Soi Pornprapanimit 5 and on to Nongprue.

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Robots walk, talk, pour beer and take over CES tech show Matt O’Brien & Joseph Pisani Las Vegas (AP) - Robots that walk, talk, pour beer and play ping pong have taken over the CES gadget show in Las Vegas again. Just don’t expect to find one in your home any time soon. Most home robot ventures have failed, in part because they’re so difficult and expensive to design to a level of intelligence that consumers will find useful, says Bilal Zuberi, a robotics-oriented venture capitalist at Lux Capital. But that doesn’t keep companies from trying. “Roboticists, I guess, will never give up their dream to build Rosie,” says Zuberi, referring to the humanoid maid from “The Jetsons.” But there’s some hope for others. Frank Gillett, a tech analyst at Forrester, says robots with more focused missions such as mowing the lawn or delivering cheeseburgers stand a better shot at finding a useful niche.

Robots that deliver There are so many delivery robots at CES that it’s easy to imagine that we’ll all be stumbling over them on the sidewalk - or in the elevator

- before long. Zuberi says it’s among the new robot trends with the most promise because the field is drawing on some of the same advances that power self-driving cars. But it’s hard to tell which if any - will still be around in a few years. Segway Robotics, part of the same company that makes electric rental scooters for Lime, Jump and Bird, is the latest to get into the delivery game with a new machine it calls Loomo Delivery. The wheeled office robot can avoid obstacles, board elevators and deliver documents to another floor. A similar office courier called the Holabot was unveiled by Chinese startup Shenzhen Pudu Technology. CEO Felix Zhang says his company already has a track record selling robots in China, where its Pudubot robot - which looks like shelves on wheels - navigates busy restaurants as a kind of robotic waiter. Nearly all of these robots use a technology called visual SLAM, short for simultaneous localization and mapping. Most are wheeled, though there are outliers such as one from German automotive company Continental, which wants

Asteroid-circling spacecraft grabs cool snapshot of home

This image captured on Dec. 19, 2018, by a camera on the Osiris-Rex spacecraft shows the asteroid Bennu, top right, about 27 miles (43 kilometers) from the spacecraft, and the Earth and moon, bottom left, more than 70 million miles (110 million kilometers) away. (NASA/Goddard/University of Arizona/ Lockheed Martin Space via AP)

Marcia Dunn Cape Canaveral, Fla. (AP) - An asteroid-circling spacecraft has captured a cool snapshot of home. NASA’s Osiris-Rex spacecraft took the picture days before going into orbit around asteroid Bennu on New Year’s Eve. The tiny asteroid - barely one-third of a mile (500 meters) across - appears as a big bright blob in the longexposure photo released last week. Seventy million

miles (110 million kilometers) away, Earth appears as a white dot, with the moon an even smaller dot but still clearly visible. Osiris-Rex is the first spacecraft to orbit such a small celestial body, and from such a close distance - about a mile (1,600 meters) out. Next year, Osiris-Rex will attempt to gather some samples from the carbon-rich asteroid, for return to Earth in 2023. Osiris-Rex launched from Florida in 2016.

pets to chase it around. A herd of the small, dumbbell-shaped robots zoomed around a pen at the show - though there were no canine or feline conference attendees to show how the machines really work. Varram’s robot takes two hours to charge and can run for 10 hours - just enough time to allow a pet’s guilt-ridden human companion to get home from work. The Walker robot grabs a soda can during a demonstration at the Ubtech booth at CES International, Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)

to deploy walking robotic dogs to carry packages from self-driving delivery vans to residential front doors. A delivery robot will need both sophisticated autonomy and a focused mission to stand out from the pack, says Saumil Nanavati, head of business development for Robby Technology. His company’s namesake robot travels down sidewalks as a “store on wheels.” The company recently partnered with PepsiCo to deliver snacks

around a California university campus.

Robots for dogs Does man’s best friend need a robotic pal of its own? Some startups think so. “There’s a big problem with separation anxiety, obesity and depression in pets,” says Bee-oh Kim, a marketing manager for robotics firm Varram. The company’s $99 robot is essentially a moving treat dispenser that motivates

Robots on grandparent watch Samsung is coming out with a robot that can keep its eye on grandparents. The rolling robot can talk and has two digital eyes on a black screen. It’s designed to track the medicines seniors take, measure blood pressure and call 911 if it detects a fall. Samsung didn’t say when Samsung Bot Care would be available, but some startups are putting similar ideas in action. Israeli company Intuition Robotics used CES to announce the upcoming commercial launch of ElliQ, a robotic voice assistant that

can sit on end tables and help older adults communicate with family members without having to fiddle with a computer.

Robot friends Lovot is a simple robot with just one aim - to make its owner happy. It can’t carry on long conversations, but it’s still social - approaching people so they can interact, moving around a space to create a digital map, responding to being embraced. Lovot’s horn-shaped antenna - featuring a 360-degree camera - recognizes its surroundings and detects the direction of sound and voices. Lovot is the brainchild of Groove X CEO Kaname Hayashi, who previously worked on SoftBank’s Pepper, a humanoid robot that briefly appeared in a few U.S. shopping malls two years ago. Hayashi wanted to create a real connection between people and robots. “This is just supporting your heart, our motivation,” he says.

First private Israeli lunar mission will launch in February Isabel Debre Yehud, Israel (AP) - An Israeli nonprofit last month said it has pushed back the launch of what it hopes will be the first private spacecraft to land on the moon until February. Officials from SpaceIL and its project partner, the stateowned Israel Aerospace Industries, announced that the landing craft, dubbed “Beresheet,” or Genesis, will ship in February to Florida. Propelled by a SpaceX Falcon rocket launch, the robotic lander will then commence its months-long voyage to the moon. It had been slated to launch last month. SpaceIL said it had no control over the launch’s delay, and that SpaceX, the private space exploration company founded by entrepreneur Elon Musk, notified them that its rocket will now lift off in February 2019 without providing an explanation. Israel Aerospace Industries manager Opher Doron stressed that the small craft, roughly the size of a washing machine, faces a “difficult, arduous journey” because it will have to make several orbits before touching down on the moon. Upon landing, the craft is to relay photographs and collect data about the moon’s ever-changing magnetism for research by Israel’s Weizmann Institute and NASA.

SpaceIL co-founder Yonatan Winetraub, left, inserts a time capsule into the SpaceIL lunar module, an unmanned spacecraft, that is on display in a special “clean room” where the space craft is being developed, during a press tour of their facility near Tel Aviv, Israel, Monday, Dec. 17, 2018. SpaceIL and the state-owned Israel Aerospace Industries plan to launch their unmanned spacecraft to the moon early in 2019. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)

On Monday, SpaceIL representatives presented a time capsule that will accompany the spacecraft to the moon. The capsule, in the shape of a DVD, holds pictures of the Israeli public, interpretive drawings by Israeli children and other pieces of national memorabilia, including stories of Holocaust survivors. “We hope that far in the future, when travel to the moon is as common as transAtlantic travel, that children will be able to understand the lives of their Israeli ancestors through this archive on

the moon,” said SpaceIL cofounder Yonatan Winetraub. A crowd of Israeli reporters, clad in sanitized white coats, burst into applause as Winetraub fastened the capsule to the underbelly of the craft. SpaceIL was founded in 2011 and originally vied for Google’s Lunar Xprize, which challenged private companies to try to land an unmanned spacecraft on the moon. But the $20 million competition was scrapped by the tech giant earlier this year

when it became clear none of the five companies would meet a March deadline. SpaceIL has vowed to continue the mission and hopes that its ambitious $95 million project, largely funded by South African-Israeli billionaire Morris Kahn and other donors, will spur a new wave of commercial missions to the moon and jump-start new companies. Israel would become the fourth country to land a craft on the moon, after the U.S., the Soviet Union and China.

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Will you get cancer? Well, if you live long enough, you probably will get some kind of cancer, somewhere! It is very often a condition of aging. But remember, “cancer” is a word that everyone has heard, but is not a condition that everyone understands. There are many reasons for this, including the fact that your reaction to ‘carcinogens’ (cancer producing substances) is not necessarily the same as the reaction of the person sitting next to you. Individual differences do exist, and may even be inherited (genetic) influences. This, in part, goes to explain why one person can smoke 80 cigarettes a day for 60 years, while the man next door died at 45 with lung cancer after smoking only 20 cigarettes a day for the previous 20 years! So what is a carcinogen, the substances which can precipitate cancer? Cancer is caused by abnormalities in a cell’s DNA (its genetic blueprint). Abnormalities may be inherited from parents, or they may be caused by outside exposures to the body such as chemicals, radiation, or even infectious agents including viruses. The difficulties in studying them come from the fact that carcinogens do not cause cancer in every case, every time. Substances classified as carcinogens may have different levels of cancer-causing potential. Some may cause cancer only after prolonged, high levels of exposure (remember the words of Paracelsus: “Dosage alone determines poisoning”). And for any particular person, the risk of developing cancer will depend on

many factors, including the length and intensity of exposure to the carcinogen and the person’s genetic makeup. So just how do we classify any compound as being a carcinogen? With difficulty, is the simple answer. The boffins get much of their data about whether or not something might be carcinogenic from laboratory (cell culture and animal) studies. However, you have also to remember that man is not a large rat (even though certain young ladies might attest differently). It is not possible, on animal studies alone, to pin the carcinogen rap on any particular compound. It does, however, give us an indication. Although it isn’t possible to predict with absolute certainty which substances will be carcinogenic to humans based on animal studies alone, virtually all known human carcinogens that have been adequately tested in lab animals produce cancer in these animals. Another problem comes from the fact that most studies of potential carcinogens in lab animals expose the animals to doses that are far higher than common human exposures. For most carcinogens, it is assumed that those that cause cancer at larger doses in animals will also cause cancer in people. This produces the concept, in some quarters, that it is reasonable for public health purposes, to assume that lowering human exposure will reduce risk. Understandable logic, but far from absolute. Another way to identify carcinogens is through epidemiologic studies, which look at the factors that might affect the occurrence of cancer in human populations. Unfortunately,

humans do not live in a controlled environment. People are exposed to numerous substances at any one time, including those they encounter at work, school, or home; in the food they eat; and the air they breathe. And it is usually many years (often decades) between exposure to a carcinogen and the development of cancer. Therefore, it can be very difficult to single out any particular exposure as having a definite link to cancer. The most widely used system for classifying carcinogens comes from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which is part of the World Health Organization (WHO). The IARC has evaluated the cancer-causing potential of about 900 likely candidates in the last 30 years, placing them into one of the following groups: Group 1: Carcinogenic to humans Group 2A: Probably carcinogenic to humans Group 2B: Possibly carcinogenic to humans Group 3: Unclassifiable as to carcinogenicity in humans Group 4: Probably not carcinogenic to humans There are around 90 carcinogens in Group 1, with most being referred to by long chemical names such as 1-(2Chloroethyl)-3-(4-methylcyclohexyl)-1-nitrosourea (Methyl-CCNU; Semustine); however, there are ones you will recognize like solar radiation, alcoholic beverages, analgesic mixtures containing phenacetin, salted fish (Chinese-style) and tobacco smoke. The way to go, in the short term, is moderation in all things!

Europe’s top rights court to hear Belgian euthanasia case Maria Cheng London (AP) - Europe’s top human rights court has agreed to hear a case being brought against Belgium by a man whose mother was euthanized in 2012 for depression, the second case that implicates one of Belgium’s leading euthanasia doctors. In a statement Tuesday, lawyers for Tom Mortier said they brought their case to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg after Belgian authorities declined to pursue it. Robert Clarke, one of Mortier’s lawyers, said there

were some “deeply worrying” details about the case. “This was a woman who was under the care of a psychiatrist and according to medical definition was a vulnerable person,” Clarke said. “The state had a duty of care to protect her and it failed.” The court said it would now consider whether Belgium had violated two parts of the European Convention on Human Rights in euthanizing Mortier’s mother. Mortier’s statement to the court alleges that Belgium failed to protect his mother’s life and that there was no thorough or effective

investigation into her death. Mortier’s mother, Godelieva De Troyer, 64, had struggled with depression for years. When her own doctor refused to approve her euthanasia request, she sought out other physicians, including Dr. Wim Distelmans, who also co-chairs Belgium’s euthanasia review commission. Mortier argued in his court statement that there was a troubling lack of oversight in the case, pointing out that his mother donated 2,500 euros ($2,860) to an association that Distelmans headed shortly before her euthanasia.

Last November, Belgian officials began investigating whether the psychiatrist who approved De Troyer’s euthanasia request, Dr. Lieve Thienpont, was also responsible for the wrongful death of Tine Nys, who was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome by Thienpont two months before she was euthanized. In addition to Thienpont, two other doctors are being investigated for “poisoning” Nys in 2010. Some experts estimate that Thienpont has been involved in about a third of all euthanasia cases for psychiatric reasons in Belgium.

Belgium is one of two countries, along with the Netherlands, where the euthanasia of people for psychiatric reasons is allowed if they can prove they have “unbearable and untreatable” suffering. Among Belgians euthanized for mental health reasons, the most common conditions are depression, personality disor der and Asperger’s, a mild form of autism. Many health experts - in Belgium and beyond - dispute whether mental health illnesses should be considered a valid justification for euthanasia.

In the 15 years since doctors were granted the right to legally kill patients in Belgium, more than 10,000 people have been euthanized. Only one case has previously been referred to prosecutors; that case was later dropped. The European Court of Human Rights has notified Belgium of its decision to consider the case and has sent a list of questions to be answered in writing. A spokeswoman for the court said it was not known yet if the case might warrant a public hearing or when a judgment would be made.

Experimental app might spot drug overdoses in time to help Lauran Neergaard Washington (AP) - Too often people die of an opioid overdose because no one’s around to notice they’re in trouble. Now scientists are creating a smartphone app that beams sound waves to measure breathing - and summon help if it stops. The app is still experimental. But in a novel test, the “Second Chance” app detected early signs of overdose in the critical minutes after people injected heroin or other illegal drugs, researchers reported Wednesday. One question is whether most drug users would pull out their phone and switch on an app before shooting up. The University of Washington research team contends it could offer a much-needed tool for people who haven’t yet found addiction treatment. “They’re not trying to kill themselves - they’re addicted to these drugs. They

have an incentive to be safe,” said Shyamnath Gollakota, an engineering and computer science associate professor whose lab turns regular cellphones into temporary sonar devices. But an emergency room physician who regularly cares for overdose patients wonders how many people really would try such a device. “This is an innovative way to attack the problem,” said Dr. Zachary Dezman of the University of Maryland School of Medicine, who wasn’t involved in the research. Still, “I don’t know if many folks who use substances are going to have the forethought to prepare,” he added. More than 47,000 people in the U.S. died of opioid overdoses in 2017. The drugs suppress breathing but a medicine called naloxone often can save victims - if it reaches them in time. Usually, that means someone has to witness the collapse. Dr. Jacob Sunshine, a University

This image from video provided by the University of Washington in January 2019 shows a demonstration of the smartphone app developed by Rajalakshmi Nandakumar, Shyamnath Gollakota and Jacob E. Sunshine that uses sound waves to measure breathing. In first-step testing reported Wednesday, Jan. 9 the device detected early breathing problems in some people who’d just injected illegal drugs. (Mark Stone/University of Washington via AP)

of Washington anesthesiologist, notes that people have died with a relative in the next room unaware they were in trouble. The research team settled on cellphones as potential overdose monitors because just about everyone owns one. They designed an app that measures how someone’s chest rises and falls to see if

they’re slipping into the slow, shallow breaths of an overdose or stop breathing completely. How? The software converts the phone’s built-in speaker and microphone to send out inaudible sound waves and record how they bounce back. Analyzing the signals shows specific breathing patterns.

It won’t work inside a pocket, and people would have to stay within 3 feet. The researchers are in the process of making the app capable of dialing for help if a possible overdose is detected. They put the experimental gadget to the test at North America’s first supervised injection site in Vancouver, British Columbia, where people are allowed to bring in illegal drugs and inject themselves under medical supervision in case of overdose. Study participants agreed to have doctoral student Rajalakshmi Nandakumar place the apprunning cellphone nearby during their regularly monitored visit. The software correctly identified breathing problems that could signal an overdose - seven or fewer breaths a minute, or pauses in breathing - 90 percent of the time, the researchers

found. Most were nearmisses; two of the 94 study participants had to be resuscitated. For a bigger test, the researchers next turned to people who don’t abuse drugs but were about to receive anesthesia for elective surgery. Rendering someone unconscious for an operation mimics how an overdose shuts down breathing. Measuring 30 seconds of slowed or absent breathing as those patients went under, the app correctly predicted 19 of 20 simulated overdoses, the researchers reported. The one missed case was a patient breathing slightly faster than the app’s cutoff. The findings were reported in the journal Science Translational Medicine. The researchers have patented the invention and plan to seek Food and Drug Administration approval.

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Odds and Ends The Associated Press

Giant rotating ice disk draws attention, visitors Westbrook, Maine (AP) - Think of it as a crop circle, but in a river. A curious formation that’s getting attention in Greater Portland is actually a spinning ice disk that is roughly 100 yards (91 meters) wide. The formation in the Presumpscot River was widely shared on social media and has drawn comparisons to an alien spacecraft, a carousel and the moon. The oddity drew a crowd that stood mesmerized by the slow-turning disk Tuesday afternoon in Westbrook. The ice formation is believed to have formed naturally in a part of the river where there’s a circular current that creates a whirlpool effect, said Tina Radel, the city’s marketing and communications manager. Locals say they’ve seen smaller ice disks before, but nothing like this one, Radel said. Rob Mitchell, who owns a nearby office building, spotted the alien-looking disk Monday morning and immediately notified the city. Officials say the disk is spinning slowly counter-clockwise, and has served as a big raft for ducks and other birds. “The ducks were rotating on this big Lazy Susan,” Mitchell said.

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Khopai, Chumsai throw Children’s Day parties

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Huay Yai school opens new wing

Former Banglamung District Chief Naris Niramaiwong and his wife Supinya cut the ribbon on Map Fakthong School’s much-needed new wing funded by the Gulati family of Savinder Kaur Gulati and Mohinder Singh, and Huay Yai Moo 1 village chief Kunasek Duangpetch.

Boonlua Chatree Deputy Mayors Pattana Boonsawat and Poramet Ngampichet were on hand as Khopai neighborhood President Wirat Joyjinda kicked off the Children’s Day activities in the Soi Khopai Community.

Jetsada Homklin Pattaya’s Soi Khopai and Chumsai communities put on their own parties to make Children’s Day more special. Deputy Mayors Pattana Boonsawat and Poramet Ngampichet were on hand as Khopai neighborhood President Wirat Joyjinda kicked off the Jan. 13 party. Wirat spoke to the youths about the need to be good, attentive to their studies and use their free time wisely and avoid drugs. There was free food and drinks for all, scholarships to poor kids and prize drawings for everything from

Pattaya honors educators on Teacher’s Day A future police woman? Kids were tested for accuracy in the airsoft gun shooting contest for prizes.

motorcycles to snacks. At the Chumsai central Pattaya community, President Jirawat Plukjai welcomed residents from four

nearby neighborhoods to a huge party. There were many prize drawings, games and plenty of free food and drink.

Prisoners help build Nong Plalai playground

Pattaya Remand Prison inmates built a new playground for kids in Nong Plalai.

Warapun Jaikusol Pattaya Remand Prison inmates built a new playground for kids in Nong Plalai. Sub-district engineers led

Huay Yai’s Map Fakthong School opened a much-needed new wing funded with donations from two local families. Former Banglamung District Chief Naris Niramaiwong and his wife Supinya cut the ribbon on the 2.2-million-baht Gulati Building Jan. 15. Principal Srihanart Duangtathip said the primary school, which has 138 students from

kindergarten to Grade 6, lacked sufficient classroom space. The new single-story building includes two classrooms and 126 sq. meters of multi-function space. The building was funded through a 1.2million baht donation from the Gulati family of Savinder Kaur Gulati and Mohinder Singh, and a million baht from Huay Yai Moo 1 village chief Kunasek Duangpetch, an executive with the Ban Suan Ananta Resort Pattaya.

the 10 well-behaved convicts to the Municipal Children Center which needed a new play area. The 100,000-baht budget for the playground came

from the Interior Ministry’s Department of Local Administration. It includes a pond, baby-bath area and playground equipment for preschoolers.

Mayor Sonthaya Kunplome stresses the importance of teachers in guiding youths.

Pattaya officials honored more than 4,000 area school teachers and educational administrators at the Teacher’s Day celebration inside the National Indoor Sports Area. The Jan. 16 ceremony honored teachers from the city’s 11 public schools, private institutions and day care centers. Mayor Sonthaya Kunplome lit candles and incense and gave way to 50 monks who collected alms. Deputy mayors Poramet Ngampichet and Pattana Boonsawat followed with award presentations to outstanding teachers. Noppasitcha Na Nakorn, director of educational promotion, delivered the annual report to the gathering. Sonthaya, in his remarks, stressed the importance of teachers in guiding youths. Teachers, he said, are second parents to students and play important roles in developing society through education and hard work. (PCPR)

A revered monk blesses with holy water more than 4,000 area school teachers and educational administrators at the Teacher’s Day celebration inside the National Indoor Sports Area.

Outstanding teachers received honorable awards.

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Thai officials showcase PBTA charts tourism-promotion Pattaya at India’s top travel show path through Asia

President Ekasit Ngampichet (inset) says the PBTA will join trade shows aimed at travelers from China, Japan, Hong Kong and Macau. Thai tourism officials introduce their Indian counterparts to Pattaya at South Asia’s largest business-to-business travel and tourism show in New Delhi.

Top Thai tourism officials introduced their Indian counterparts to Pattaya at South Asia’s largest business-to-business travel and tourism show in New Delhi. Commerce Ministry Permanent Secretary Boonyarit Kanlayanamit, Interior Ministry Deputy Permanent Secretary Pornpoj Penpat, Tourism Authority of Thailand Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn and Pattaya TAT and city officials manned the trade show booth at the South Asia Travel & Trade Exposition (SATTE) Jan. 16.

Destination LONDON

Sumalee Atsawawijitkul, head of the Chonburi Provincial Administrative Administration’s Tourism Department, said SATTE was a major stage where central government, Chonburi and Pattaya officials could publicize Pattaya’s goods and services to Indian tour operators. She said the show was very well attended and the Thai delegation called the show very successful in recruiting more Indian tourists to Pattaya. (PCPR)

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on businesses and OTOP products, but PBTA plans to bring the operators of Pattaya-area tourist attractions to market the area to tour guides and hospitality companies, Ekasit said. He added that Pattaya has many tourist attractions that are not widely known. Highlighting those can lead to repeat Thai visitors. He said PBTA expects the Thai/foreign tourist ratio to be 40/60 in 2019.

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The Pattaya Business & Tourism Association is charting its effort to bring more Asian tourists to Pattaya. Association President Ekasit Ngampichet said Jan. 14 that the PBTA will join trade shows aimed at travelers from China, Japan, Hong Kong and Macau. The emphasis will not be on package tourists, but the “free and independent

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PCEC filled with Soul Gavin Adrian Koch, performing name GAK, turned the daytime meeting of the PCEC into a soulful ‘Nightclub’ at their meeting on Sunday, January 13. Overcoming the dread of all singers, i.e. ‘morning performances’, Gavin’s clear strong and soulful voice filled the room with significant sound delivered with feeling. Later accompanied on stage by his charming 3 year old daughter Alina, he ‘dueted’ with her ‘the family finger song’ claiming her to be the love of his life. Ren Lexander, who arranged Gavin’s visit, acted as an interviewer interspersing Gavin’s songs with questions aimed at exploring his entry into the music field and how it then brought him to Thailand. Gavin related that from the time he could talk he could sing and was surrounded by singing from the early moments of every day. His roots came from that time where he was exposed to gospel, soul and country music. His uncle was a very popular singer in Australia and both parents were singers who met in a band. Though born in Sri Lanka, his family moved to Australia when he was six. His parents are of mixed race so he has German, Dutch, Sri Lankan, South African and other bloodlines. When told one day that he didn’t look Australian he replied that

With his daughter Alina, Gavin Koch ‘dueted’ with her ‘the family finger song’ noting after that his daughter is the love of his life.

many don’t since it’s such a melting pot. A difficult breakup of an 8 year relationship prompted friends to take him to Thailand to cheer up. He did; found a Thai lady and fathered the daughter who makes his life shine. He started singing professionally when he was 17, and is described by other professional musicians as ‘the best singer in Pattaya’ and ‘the best soul singer in Thailand’. Gavin sang five songs for the club including ‘Man’s World’,

‘Bridge over Troubled Water’, a very special to him ‘Change is Going to Come’ and ending

with a brilliant rendering of the Ray Charles favorite, ‘I Can’t Stop Loving You’. He had troubled years as a teenager and singing was his path through and out of those years. But his music, his daughter and his Christian faith have helped to reshape his life. Though Gavin lives in Bangkok and performs at several clubs there, he treks each week to perform at La Costa in Pattaya on Monday and Tuesday nights. He also comes to visit his daughter which may be the higher incentive. After the presentations, MC Roy Albiston brought everyone up to date on upcoming events and then turned it over to the Open Forum portion of the meeting where questions are asked and answered and comments made about Expat living in Thailand, Pattaya in particular. For more information about the PCEC, visit their website at: www.pcec.club.

Pattaya tells pudgy residents to take stairs

Member Ren Lexander interviews Gavin Adrian Koch (GAK) about his presentation to the PCEC. To see the video, visit: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=kAlXToymQBs&t=29s. The city is putting stickers on each step at city hall showing the number of calories burned to inspire people to lift their feet instead of taking the lift.

Pattaya is telling its increasingly heavy population to skip the elevator and take the stairs to stay fit. Deputy Mayor Poramet Ngampichet kicked off the Health Promotion Office campaign Jan. 14. He said the city will put

stickers on each step at city hall showing the number of calories burned to inspire people to lift their feet instead of taking the lift. The goal is to get a sedentary population to exercise at least 150 minutes a week. (PCPR)

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Son of a postman It’s always seemed rather curious to me that while the USA has the United States Postal Service, the man who delivers your letters is called a mailman. In contrast, the British equivalent is called The Royal Mail and your letters are delivered by a postman. British people always talk about “posting a letter” rather than mailing one, but perhaps in recent times the distinction between the two words has become blurred. The Royal Mail has been going a good many years and was established in 1516 by King Henry VIII. Yes, he’s the one who had all those wives. Now you may be wondering why I am telling you all this. (The thought had occurred to me – Ed.) Well you see, I was looking through my database and realized that I have never told you anything about the music of Léo Delibes. Now I have nothing against him you understand. Really, nothing at all. He was probably a really decent bloke and good to his mother. It was she who brought him up anyway, because his father died when Léo was a child. His father was a postman (or mailman, if you prefer) who must have picked up some fatal infection while

much impressed with the score of Sylvia. He once remarked that “had I known of this music, I would never have written Swan Lake.”

Léo Delibes (18361891): Sous le dôme épais (Lakmé). Nadine Sierra, Anita Rachvelishvili (sop), Orchestre National de Léo Delibes in 1891. France cond. Valéry slogging around the streets Gergiev (Duration: every morning with a sack 06:42; Video: 720p HD)

of letters on his back. Léo Delibes (LAY-oh duhLEEB) was born in SaintGermain-du-Val, a small community a little to the south-west of Paris. His grandfather had been an opera singer and his mother was evidently quite a talented amateur musician. Delibes holds a significant place in musical history because he wrote exceptional ballet music, operas and other music for the stage. His light and graceful musical style was tremendously popular in the France of the Second Empire, presided over (if that is the appropriate verb) by the Emperor Napoleon III. The music of Delibes influenced other composers too, notably Saint-Saëns, Debussy and Tchaikovsky who was

Even if you’ve never heard much of Delibes’ music before, you’ll probably have com e a c r o s s t h i s famous duet better known as The Flower Duet. It has become widely known because of its use in advertisements, in particular a British Airways commercial in the 1980s in which the music was slightly adapted for TV use. Delibes completed the score of the opera in 1882 and it was first performed in Paris. The story is set in British India in the mid19th century and the music is colourful and exotic, reflecting the taste for all things Oriental, which prevailed during the latter part of nineteenth century France. The Indian fashion brand Lakmé was established in 1952 and

was named after the opera. After Delibes left the Paris Conservatoire where he had studied composition he worked as a rehearsal accompanist and chorus master at the Théâtre Lyrique and as second chorus master at the Paris Opéra. The world of opera and ballet was not new to him. Delibes today is probably best known for his opera Lakmé and his two ballets Coppélia and Sylvia. He wrote many other operas and operettas but these days they are rarely performed. This video was recorded on 14 th July 2017 at the glamorous Concert de Paris, a huge event held each year on Bastille Day at the foot of the Eiffel Tower in front of a massive audience. This explains why the two sopranos are fitted with microphones.

Léo Delibes: Coppélia (Act 1). Ecole de danse de l’Opéra National de Paris, Orchestre de l’Opéra National de Paris cond. David Coleman (Duration: 18:45; Video: 720p HD) This three-act comic ballet is packed full of gorgeous

‘The First Conspiracy’ unspools plot on Washington in 1776 Michael Hill George Washington faced some big problems as he tried to fortify New York City against British forces in the summer of 1776. His ragtag army was woefully short on weapons and battle experience. The British were assembling a massive expeditionary force to crush his army and snuff out the nascent revolution. And one more thing: some of his own bodyguards were involved in a traitorous plot against him. “The First Conspiracy” follows the shadowy plot that played out in and around Manhattan as Washington focused on the coming British attack. The odd assortment of characters involved in this cloak-and-dagger tale include a scheming gunsmith, would-be counterfeiters and some members of Washington’s elite bodyguard detachment, called the Life Guards. Looming ominously over all the machinations was Gov. William Tyron, the top British official in New York. Rising revolutionary sentiment had forced him to retreat to a ship in New York Harbor, but he was still able to spin his webs of intrigue against the rebels. It’s not a spoiler to point out that the plot failed. Washington, of course, was just beginning his long, historical run

on the world’s stage. The only person to lose his life after the plot was exposed was bodyguard Thomas Hickey, who was publicly hanged for “mutiny, sedition, and treachery.” So authors Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch extract what they can out of the historical record to tell a colorful story giving the reader a sense of Revolutionary-era Manhattan. The writing is punchy and the chapters are short, though the authors have an annoying habit of ending every chapter with a cliffhanger, even when they have to contrive one. Despite the book’s subtitle, it’s not certain whether plotters planned to assassinate Washington or capture him. Many believed it was an assassination plot ever since Hickey went to the gallows. In one famous story, Washington was about to be served poisoned peas before a servant threw the plate out the window at the last second, saving the future president but killing some chickens outside who ate the deadly vegetables. That story is almost certainly apocryphal. But what was the most likely plan? Scouring the existing evidence, the authors come up with a conclusion that seems as good as any that can be drawn more than two centuries later. (AP)

melodies and was a huge hit when it was first performed in 1870. The story involves one Dr. Coppélius who constructed a life-size mechanical dancing doll which he named Coppélia. It was so lifelike that a village youth called Franz becomes infatuated with it, at the expense of his fiancée Swanhilda who is understandably a bit miffed about the competition. Now if all this sounds slightly familiar it’s because several nineteenth century opera stories revolve around mechanical dolls which somehow come to life. Perhaps the

idea originated in the popular travelling shows of the time, which often featured mechanical dolls and other wonders of the age. This performance is particularly delightful because it features the young student dancers of Paris National Opera’s Ballet School. You’re sure to recognize the opening Mazurka, along with many of the other catchy melodies. This video shows only the first act, but hopefully it will prove tempting enough for you to seek out a performance of the entire ballet.

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.

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The underwhelming rollercoaster of ‘Glass’ Lindsey Bahr Los Angeles (AP) - Samuel L. Jackson’s Elijah Price, or Mr. Glass, as he prefers to be called, was by far the most compelling part of M. Night Shyamalan’s slow-burn comic book send-up “Unbreakable.” A brilliant, tortured manipulator and superhero enthusiast suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (i.e. brittle bone disease), Glass is that kind of charismatic supervillain that you can’t get enough of. Nineteen years is certainly a long time to wait for more Mr. Glass. But Shyamalan, even after naming this longgestating film after Jackson’s character, decides to withhold him from the audience

even longer. Yes, he makes Mr. Glass a highly sedated vegetable who gets to do little more than blink and intensely stare at the camera for what feels like more than half of the movie. It’s one of the many ways in which “Glass,” which seems to delight in building up anticipation only to pull the rug out from under you, manages to both frustrate and underwhelm. I’m sure it’s some kind of meta-commentary on the futility of serialized storytelling, the contrivances and deification of comic book culture and easily malleable audience expectations, but in execution it mostly feels like a tub full of half-baked ideas that never really coalesce into something exciting, meaningful or all that memorable. “Glass” definitely doesn’t care to help if you haven’t seen “Unbreakable” or “Split,”

‘Game of Thrones’ final season to debut on April 14

This image shows Samuel L. Jackson in a scene from M. Night Shyamalan’s “Glass.” (Jessica Kourkounis/Universal Pictures via AP)

either. It just dives right in with little exposition. We see Bruce Willis’s David Dunn taking a couple of teen pranksters to task. Then it jumps to James McAvoy’s multiple personalities, who’ve decided to take four teenage cheerleaders hostage because they’re “impure” and “need to be punished.” David, who is working alongside his now-grown son Joseph (Spencer Treat Clark, the same actor from “Unbreakable,” which is actually a nice touch), has been trying to find the missing cheerleaders. Joseph warns him to be careful, because

David has also been branded a public nuisance for all of his would-be good deeds that have left criminals and victims injured and looking for someone to sue. If you’re thinking, wait, isn’t this sort of the plot of “Incredibles,” just wait because it even brushes up against some “Incredibles 2” themes, intentionally or not. David and the “Horde” (the term used to describe the collective of all of McAvoy’s personalities, which range from a 9-yearold boy and an older British woman, to a terrifying flesheating creature called “The

Beast”) meet and low-budget fight a bit, but are interrupted by the authorities and Sarah Paulson’s Dr. Ellie Staple who take them to the psychiatric hospital where Price is. Dr. Staple explains with oozing condescension that she specializes in treating those afflicted by delusions of grandeur — aka, those who think they have superpowers. She says their abilities and their weaknesses are all in the mind, and can be explained away by science and childhood traumas. This little group therapy session in a bubblegum pink room is one of the more compelling parts, and it seems like the film is gleefully destroying the superhero origin story myth, sending its main characters into a spiral of doubt. But don’t get too attached to this, or any other path Shyamalan seems to be taking us down, because he will change course, backtrack and laugh at you for getting too committed to one narrative (while really going all in on

some questionable ones, like having the Horde’s sole surviving captive from “Split,” Casey (Anya Taylor-Joy), come back as a sort of Stockholm Syndrome empathy machine to worry about him). Mr. Glass does emerge from his vegetative state, eventually, and kicks the movie into gear as only Jackson can do. McAvoy is once again giving his all to all the characters, and watching him shift between them is still enjoyable, but perhaps not worth all the screen time it gets. Willis barely gets anything to do at all. But for all the hype behind these three characters meeting, and the years it took to get it off the ground, “Glass” is one big anti-climax. “Glass,” a Universal Pictures release, is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America for “violence including some bloody images, thematic elements, and language.” Running time: 129 minutes. Two stars out of four.

Star of the upcoming “The Sopranos” prequel reveals details John Carucci

Actress Sophie Turner is shown in this Jan. 29, 2017, file photo. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

New York (AP) — “Game of Thrones” fans, get ready. HBO has announced that the eighth and final season will begin on April 14. In a one minute and 44 second teaser released last week, Arya Stark (Maisie Williams), Sansa Stark (Sophie Turner) and Jon Snow (Kit Harington) are seen in the crypts of Winterfell. Fans have eagerly awaited the six-episode finale of the

show since Season 7 of the popular HBO show ended in August 2017. The fantasy series based on the George R.R. Martin novels has been one of HBO’s most successful shows. HBO isn’t getting out of the “Game of Thrones” business. A prequel created by Martin and writer-producer Jane Goldman is underway, with Naomi Watts set to star, and other spinoffs are possible.

New York (AP) — The star of the upcoming “The Sopranos” prequel, Alessandro Nivola, says a young Tony Soprano will be a part of the film — but had good reason to be careful about how much else he revealed about “The Many Saints of Newark.” “I guess I got to be kind of discreet about it, so David Chase doesn’t kill me,” Nivola said. “I’m playing Dickie Moltisanti, who is the central character in the movie, and he is Christopher Moltisanti’s dad.” Christopher Moltisanti, who was played by Michael Imperioli in the series, was a protege of Tony Soprano, the New Jersey mob

boss portrayed by James Gandolfini. Though the elder Moltisanti never appeared in the series, he is often mentioned as part of Christopher’s backstory. The father was gunned down when Christopher was young and Nivola said the film will explore the interlocking history of Dickie Moltisanti and Soprano. “Tony will be a character in the film, and as was mentioned throughout ‘The Sopranos’ series, my character was an important person in his life, and it examines that relationship as well,” Nivola said. The film begins in 1967 with the backdrop of the race riots that tore through Newark, New Jersey. Nivola said

Alessandro Nivola. (Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP)

racial tension is “a big part of the story.” Nivola cited “weird coincidences” that told him this role was meant for him, including the fact that his real-life neighbor is Tim Van Patten, who directed many episodes

of “The Sopranos.” Another coincidence connects his own family to the show: An episode in the second season shows Soprano visiting Naples, Italy, and in one of the scenes, just over Gandolfini’s shoulder, is seen a sculpture — made by Nivola’s grandfather, the artist Costantino Nivola. “So it was meant to be or something,” Alessandro Nivola said. Chase will produce “The Many Saints of Newark” and has written the script with “The Sopranos” writer Lawrence Konner. Alan Taylor, who helmed episodes of “The Sopranos,” ‘’Mad Men” and “Game of Thrones,” will direct. “The Many Saints of Newark” begins shooting in April.

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Michael Schenker Group: ‘One Night in Budokan (Expanded Edition)’ mott@pattayamail.com After being driven to drink and the edge of madness, mainly by Phil Mogg, whilst playing in the band UFO, Michael Schenker cut his hair and regrouped. The First Michael Schenker Group (self-titled) studio album was a good affair, released in 1980, but apart from singer Gary Bardens it was completed by session players. The second album, simply titled “MSG” (1981) was by far more a band effort and on paper what a band! At the back was everybody’s idea of a rock drummer, Cozy Powell, thrashing out a heavy rock rhythm and alongside him was one-time Sensational Alex Harvey Band bassist Glenn Hughes. So that was the bottom end of the band, rock solid. On second guitar and keyboards

was Schenker’s former colleague in UFO, Paul Raymond, a very useful man to have in your ranks as he was a multiinstrumentalist, could sing harmony vocals, contribute to the song writing and was great at rabble rousing the crowd on stage.

The one drawback to the whole band was Gary Bardens out front giving it all as the singer. To his credit he also helped write most of the songs, but as a singer he just could not cut it at this level. The second song on this album, “Cry for the Nations” and then on “On and On” display his attempts at singing falsetto and are cringe-worthy at best.

On the live stage there is no hiding and after the results of this album Bardens was jettisoned in favor of the much more melodious Graham Bonnet, but of course he came with a whole new tool box full of troubles. To this very day, Michael Schenker has searched for a suitable vocalist to compliment his talents. Perhaps Doogie White has come closest. This live recording was also hampered by the fact that although the band was playing to a packed Budokan Stadium in Tokyo, the songs that they had come to promote were mostly on the second band album “MSG”, which had not yet been released in Japan. This led Gary Barden to continuously have to introduce each song with “This is a new song which will be on our second album, when it gets released.” Schenker had bravely ditched all but one song from his UFO days, his signature song “Doctor Doctor”.

Michael Schenker is shown in this 1980 file grab from video. (Photo/You Tube)

Putting the singing problems aside, the music is excellent and played with great flare and panache. “Attack of the Mad Axe Man” is exactly as it title suggests and “Into the Arena” is an absolute classic riff-heavy instrumental rock song. The album also features a stunning eleven minute drum solo from Powell and while I’m not usually a fan of drum solos, in this case I will make an exception. From this point on the concert builds to a shattering climax, sending the Japanese crowd

wild. Michael Schenker’s playing is nothing short of top drawer. Album Rating: 3 Stars Track List: Introduction Armed And Ready

Cry For The Nations Attack of the Mad Axe Man But I Want More Victim of Illusion Into the Arena On And On Never Trust A Stranger Let Sleeping Dogs Lie Tales Of Mystery Cozy Powell Drum Solo Courvoisier Concert Lost Horizons Doctor Doctor Ready to Rock Michael Schenker Band: Michael Schenker - lead guitar Paul Raymond - guitar, keyboards and vocals Cozy Powell – drums Chris Glenn – bass and vocals Gary Bardens- vocals

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Street singer gives voice to Venezuela’s growing diaspora Manuel Rueda and Cesar Barreto Lima, Peru (AP) — A year ago, Venezuelan migrant Reymar Perdomo was singing for spare change on jammed buses, struggling to make ends meet while building a new life in Peru’s capital. But her life took a turn when she wrote a heartfelt reggae song about leaving her homeland that went viral on the internet and has brought tears to hundreds in the Venezuelan diaspora that has spread around the globe. Now Perdomo combines her street performances with appearances at concerts and on TV programs, and her song has become the unofficial anthem of Venezuelans who have fled their country’s economic implosion. “This song gives me goosebumps” said Junior Barrios, a Venezuelan migrant who listened to Perdomo perform her song “Me Fui” — Spanish for “I Left” — recently at a busy plaza in Lima. “Leaving your home from one day to the next day isn’t easy, and this just makes a whole bunch of emotions surface at once.” “Me Fui” is Perdomo’s retelling of how she left Venezuela reluctantly with her “head full of doubts,” pushed by her mother, who insisted there was no other

In this Jan. 12, 2019 photo, Venezuelan singer Reymar Perdomo performs with fellow Venezuelan and guitarist Omar Rumbos at a fair on the beach of San Bartolo, Peru. (AP Photo/Martin Mejia)

way for her to make something of her life in a country racked by food shortages and hyperinflation. The song, which the 30year-old plays with a ukulele after her guitar broke while busking, talks about how she was robbed and faced other hardships as she had to cross four countries to reach Peru, pressing on while “speaking softly and crying along much of the way.” “I had lots of mixed feelings about having to leave Venezuela, and felt a lot of pain. And I just needed to express that in order to move on with life,” Perdomo said in an interview after performing on the streets of Lima’s wealthy Miraflores district. Her nostalgic song has had more than 2 million views on

YouTube thanks to a passerby who recorded Perdomo singing and posted the video online. It’s also gotten a wave of attention on radio and television, helping Perdomo get noticed by famous pop artists around South America who have asked her to be the opening act at their concerts. She has also produced a slicker version that has had 1.3 million views on its own. In December, Perdomo was invited to Colombia by a popular satirist and Youtuber who had her sing on a bus, surprising her by bringing along Latin Grammy winner Carlos Vives and Andres Cepeda. Perdomo said she almost fainted as Vives, who was wearing a hat and fake

moustache, threw his disguise away and started to sing the chorus of her song. “That happened exactly a year to the date after I left Venezuela” Perdomo said. “And for me to be there, performing with one of my favorite singers, singing my song, just felt like proof that God exists.” Perdomo used to be a music teacher at a public school in the rural state of Guarico and once participated in a televised talent show. Although she says she never voted for Venezuela’s socialist president, Nicolas Maduro, as a public employee she was required to sing at pro-government rallies, something a few online critics have held against her. Though becoming something of a symbol of the Venezuelan exodus, she still struggles to get by. Her mother, brother, sisterin-law and year-old nephew have joined her in Peru and all share a small rented apartment in one of the city’s working class districts. Only Perdomo’s brother has found a permanent job, working as a bouncer at a nightclub, so the street performer works long days to help sustain her family. Still, social media fame is opening new doors. Perdomo says that Vives has invited her to perform on

a regular basis at his nightclub in Bogota and that she is speaking with organizations in Colombia about the possibility of recording an album focused on the plight of migrants. These opportunities have her thinking about moving yet again — this time to

Colombia’s capital. “This has been a tough year, but it has also been amazing” Perdomo said. “I think that to help people and do what you love, you don’t need a lot of money. You just need to believe in yourself and be willing to work real hard.”

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Sikhs celebrate Guru Gobind Mayor Sonthaya leads high-rank Pratheep S. Malhotra

Mayor Sonthaya Khunplome conveys his heartfelt greetings to the Sikh congregation.

Amrik Singh Kalra (centre) most respected Chairman of the Sikh and Indian community of Pattaya greets Mayor Sonthaya Khunplome (left) and Deputy Mayor Poramet Ngampiches (right).

Sunday January 13, 2019, marked a very important and holy day on the Sikh calendar. This was the day that Sikhs all over the world gathered at Gurdwaras (Sikh Temples) to celebrate Guru Gobind Singh Ji Gurpurab marking the birth of the tenth Guru on 22 December 1666. Devout Sikh residents of Pattaya made a special pilgrimage to the Siri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Soi 17, where special programmes were arranged such as reading the Holy Scriptures and singing kirtans (religious songs) continuously for 48 hours.

Sunny, committee member of the Sikh temple welcomes Siripong Sommun, Director of the Chonburi Religion, Arts and Culture Promotion Group together with Picharn and Warakorn Viriyaphan, owners of the Santuary of Truth.

On this most auspicious occasion the Sikh congregation was honoured by the visit of Mayor Sonthaya Kunplome and his delegation including Deputy Mayor Poramet Ngampiches, Deputy Mayor Ronakit Ekasing, Deputy Mayor Pattana Boonsawat, Picharn and Warakorn Viriyaphan owners of the Santuary of Truth, Siripong Sommun, Director of the Chonburi Religion, Arts and Culture Promotion Group. On arrival they were greeted by Amrik Singh Kalra, Chairman of the Sikh Temple Association. At the end of the prayer session, Vice Chairman of the Sikh temple, Paramjit Singh Gogar related the history of the Sikh religion to the distinguished visitors saying, “Guru Nanak Dev Ji founded Sikhism in the 15th century. He advocated equality of races and genders and rejected worship of idols. Sikhism broke away from Hinduism and Islam, the main religions of India. Sikhism is not just a form of religion or belief, but a form of Faith, in One Supreme Power that reigns beyond the scope of time and space. Sikhism has about 27 million followers world-wide, most of whom live in India. “Today we are celebrating Guru Gobind Singh Ji Gurpurab. Gupurabs or festivals are anniversaries associated with the lives of the Sikh Gurus.”

Mayor Sonthaya and his entourage pose for a photo with members of the Sikh community.

Paramjit went on with his narration, much to the interest of the honourable visitors, “Guru Gobind Singh was the last of the ten Sikh Gurus. Guru Gobind Singh was born to Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh guru, and Mata Gujri in Patna, Bihar, India. He succeeded his father Guru Tegh Bahadur as the tenth Sikh Guru, leader of Sikhs. “Shri Guru Gobind Singh is notable for founding of the Khalsa in 1699. Khalsa meaning ‘pure’ are Sikhs who have undergone the sacred Amrit Ceremony, the drinking of the ‘nectar of immortality’. They were warriors with a duty to protect the innocent from any form of religious persecution. “Guru Gobind Singh in all his wisdom initiated the ‘Physical articles of faith including the 5 Ks’. “Dastar: Turban. A symbol of royalty and dignity. Historically the turban has been held in high esteem in eastern and Middle Eastern cultures. Guru Gobind Singh transformed this cultural symbol into a religious requirement so that the Khalsa would always have high self-esteem. It differentiates Sikhs from other religious followers who keep long hair but wear caps or keep matted hair. The turban cannot be covered by any other head gear or replaced by a cap or hat. The turban is mandatory for Sikh men and optional for Sikh women.

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Singh Ji Gurpurab in Pattaya

king delegation in paying homage “Kesh: Long unshorn hair. A symbol of spirituality. The Kesh reminds a Khalsa to behave like the Gurus. It is a mark of dedication and group consciousness, showing a Khalsa’s acceptance of God’s will. Long hair has long been a common element of many spiritual prophets of various religions such as Jesus, Moses and Buddha. “Kangha: Comb. A symbol of hygiene and discipline as opposed to the matted unkempt hair of ascetics. A Khalsa is expected to regularly wash and comb their hair as a matter of selfdiscipline. “Kara: Steel bracelet. A symbol to remind the wearer of restraint in their actions and remembrance of God at all times.

“Kachha: Drawers. A symbol signifying self-control and chastity. “Kirpan: Ceremonial Sword. A symbol of dignity and the Sikh struggle against injustice. It is worn purely as a religious symbol and not as a weapon. “After Guru Gobind Singh’s passing, the Sri Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh Holy Scripture) was venerated as the eternal Guru, the highest religious and spiritual guide for the Sikhs.” Mayor Sonthaya said that he was very impressed to listen to the story of the Sikhs and he felt blessed for having made this pilgrimage to the Sikh temple. “I feel like I’m making merit,” he said. The mayor said that he was very familiar with the

Mayor Sonthaya joins in making merit by partaking in Guru ka langar.

Gianiji Deep Singh waves the Chaur Sahib (ceremonial whisk) over the sacred Guru Granth Sahib.

Sikh community in Thailand especially here in Pattaya. “My friendship with the Sikh community goes back decades. You were one of the first pioneers of this town going back almost 50 years. Pattaya recognises you and thanks you for your steadfastness and dedication in the development of our city and society.” Mayor Kunplome spoke of the developments and improvements made to the city, the infrastructure and the environment. He pointed out the incredible improvements made to our beaches which are attracting more visitors to our town. In closing the mayor extended his hand of friendship to the Sikh community saying, “If for any reason you

Ragis sing shabads (holy hymns) from the Guru Granth Sahib.

Gianiji Deep Singh, keeper and teacher of the faith leads the congregation in prayer.

need our assistance in any matter, please don’t hesitate to contact me or my team.” The most eventful morning

of prayer and celebration ended with the Langar or community lunch which was served to people of all walks

of life and of all faiths. Local volunteers served it with a spirit of Seva (service) and Bhakti (devotion).

It was a day of prayer and celebration as hundreds of people of all faiths came together to celebrate Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti.

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Military chief urges loyalty ahead of expected election to pressure the government not to backslide on its promise to hold polls. Several times it has set dates for elections but then found excuses for pushing them back. It recently announced that a Feb. 24 election date it set months

ago will not be possible. Apirat earlier in the week warned protesters not to step over the line of acceptable dissent. There have been small but spirited protests lately in Bangkok and several other cities over the failure to

keep the election schedule. Armed Forces Day is an annual event that marks the anniversary of a battle 500 years ago in which King Naresuan is said to have slain a Burmese prince in a duel on elephant back.

Thai army chief Gen. Apirat Kongsompong reviews the guard of honor during the Royal Thai Armed Forces Day, Friday, Jan. 18. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Bangkok (AP) — Thailand’s military held its annual Armed Forces Day parade last week as the country prepares for upcoming elections. Army Commander in Chief Gen. Apirat Kongsompong, who presided over the ceremony, declined last

October to rule out future army interventions in Thai political life, raising a storm of controversy. But his speech to soldiers on Friday steered clear of politics, making instead routine exhortations of loyalty to the king and the country.

“We will sacrifice our physical and mental strength to protect the country and revere the king, and look after the people,” he said. With elections expected shortly, political temperatures are rising, and pro-democracy activists have been demonstrating

A Buddhist monk splashes holy water on Thai soldiers during the Royal Thai Armed Forces Day ceremony. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Thailand commits to policy of not detaining migrant children Bangkok (AP) - Advocates for the protection of refugees and asylum seekers lauded a commitment by Thailand on Monday to release children held in its immigration detention centers. The U.N. refugee agency, UNHCR, said Thai government ministries involved with the issue signed a memorandum of understanding providing a framework to meet a 2016 pledge by Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha to end the practice of detaining migrant children. The document is an agreement in principle and does not ensure how such children will be taken care of. The UNHCR and international and Thai advocacy groups are urging Thailand to take the commitment a step further and release mothers with their children in order not to separate families. Giuseppe De Vincentiis, UNHCR’s representative in Thailand, called the agreement “a positive example of Thailand’s humanitarian approach to refugees and asylum seekers.” “The framework only covers the release of children detained in immigration detention,” UNHCR said a statement. “However, mothers have also been released together with their children in their capacity as legal guardians. All over the

Detainees flash hand gestures at a Bangkok immigration detention center in Bangkok, Monday, Jan. 21, 2019. Advocates for the protection of refugees and asylum seekers lauded a commitment by Thailand on Monday to release children held in its immigration detention centers. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

world, UNHCR advocates that the child’s right to family life must be respected and that children should not be separated from their families except when such separation is necessary to protect the best interests of the child.” Seven private advocacy groups also welcomed the agreement but said “further efforts are necessary to protect the best interests of the child and to bring Thai policy and practice in line with international standards.” The memorandum “doesn’t address the separation of families, and detained refugee mothers are still required to pay exorbitant bail fees simply to reunite with their

children, while fathers remain in detention,” said Amy Smith, executive director of Fortify Rights, one of the seven groups that jointly issued a statement calling for further action. The statement said that “migrant mothers are only granted release from immigration detention following a cash bail payment of 50,000 Thai baht ($1,500) to reunite with children in holding shelters.” It called the bail payment “exorbitant for most migrants and, particularly, refugees, who are prohibited from working in Thailand,” and added that the provision of bail does not extend to fathers of migrant children.

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Articles For Sale/Rent

Articles/Services Wanted

As611/01-52/ Pattaya Mail Cartoonist Michael Baird (M.J.B.) has 3 brand new cartoon EBooks out. These and his other 10 cartoon E-Books 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 grownups and would be unique gifts. You never know You might see yourself in them!

Aw01/01-52/ Missionary in Rayong sponsoring Little Duck Nursery needs help. Please - Any unwanted items you have would be appreciated. (Eng) Rev Stephen 086 600 5682, (Thai) 0875 381 586

Businesses for Sale or Rent Bop03/01-52/ Spacious Double Shophouse, Thepprasit Road, Soi 5; very good business location; land 240sqm; business space 150sqm; 6 rooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 kitchenettes; 2-4 locked parking spaces; partly furnished; 4,900,000 THB or near offer; Joe: 092753 9309, info@gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com

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Road; commercial space 200sqm; 19,950,000 THB o.n.o.; Go Property Thailand; 093 161 5995, info@ gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com

Notices No02/04-10/ Pattaya Panthers Rugby Club is looking to recruit new players. All ages and abilities welcome to come to training nights every Thursday at Horseshoe Point in east Pattaya from 7pm – 8.30pm. For more information, go to Pattaya Panthers page on Facebook. No01/01-10/ Looking for a game of snooker with a retired ex-professional UK snooker player? Tel. Mike on 089 152 3202

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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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Pets Pets03/01-52/ Homeless puppies available for adoption to warm and caring homes! All puppies are healthy, vaccinated and acclimated to people. If you are looking for a friend for life, just call 088 402 6772 or e-mail to karin@ carefordogs.org. Pets02/01-52/ **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

Property for Rent Houses, Villas Prb06/04-08/ TOWNHOUSE, Off Soi Khaotalo, Like new, quiet, safe, two bedroom, one bathroom, patio, carport, Thai kitchen, air-conditioned, FULLY FURNUSHED, Guarded Subdivision, Communal Pool, One Year Lease Minimum, Bt.9,5000. Monthly, Bt.19,000. Security Deposit. English, 087-805-5276

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Prb07/52-11/ For Rent: Bt.10,900 Per Month, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 3 A/C, Furnished, Pool, Clean, Beautiful, Soi 53 Nern Plabwan at Soi 45. Tel: 084-351-8254

Condos, Apartments Prc218/42-09/ 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 Prc216/52-04/ Pattaya Beach Rd. Soi 13, Studio, Terrace, Kitchenette, Safe box. Penthouse style, pool. Bt. 13,500. - Tel: 091 504 1806

Property for Sale Houses, Villas Psb32/52-04/ Bargain Pool Villa needs to be viewed. Refurbished very specious, 3 bed 3 baths, huge living room. Separate Euro kitchen and Thai kitchen Luxurious salt water pool with Jacuzzi and remote gate parking for 2 cars. Land 125TW, House 300m2. SP3 village Siam Country Club with excellent security 5.7 M Tel: 083 102 9293, also available for rent 38,000 baht per month. Psb31/46-08/ House for sale: 1,850,000 Baht. Location in Soi Nernblabwan. Tel: 0963979541, Line ID: domicil24, Email: duangpee. domicil@gmail.com Psb28/01-52/ 5-storey Townhouse in Pratumnak; lobby, 9 rooms and 8 bathrooms; total area 320sqm; big garage; the property was completely restored in 2015; new bathrooms, new rooms, new air-conditioners; new electric wiring; must see! Great Opportunity! Only 6,200,000 THB; 092- 753 9309, info @gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com

Psb27/01-52/ City Villa in the heart of Pattaya; completely renovated; close to 3rd Road / LK Hotel; in walking distance to Soi Buakhao; 120sqm living space; land approx. 150sqm; 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, kitchenette; fully furnished; 2 new Flat TVs; 3 air-cons; big storeroom; garden, carport & parking; NO THROUGH ROADvery quite; 3,950,000 THB; 092- 753 9309, info @gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com Psb26/01-52/ 3-storey Townhouse located in Pratumnak Hills close to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Royal Cliff Hotelâ&#x20AC;?; living space 200sqm; fully furnished with high quality furniture; living room with dining area, 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, guest toilet; 1 European kitchen; terrace; 2 balconies; Jacuzzi bath; 3 air-cons; ceiling fan; WiFi access; storage room; carport; very nice and clean place to live; 4,950,000

THB; Go Property Thailand; 093 161 5995, info @gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com Psb25/01-52/ Villa located on Pattaya East Side, only 5 min. from Sukhumvit/Thepprasit Road; Land size 760sqm, living space 350sqm; partly furnished; living room, dining room, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, guest toilet; Jacuzzi; European kitchen, security 24/7; private pool; tropical garden; garage; parking; 15,500,000 THB; 092- 753 9309, info@ gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com Psb24/01-52/ Big Villa with 5,200sqm park similar land; located close to Huay Yai Road; living space 650sqm; fully furnished; 1 living/dining room; 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, full European kitchen; terraces; WiFi; private pool 10m x 5m; outdoor shower and toilet; small lake with sala; air-con in all rooms; fitness gym; many storerooms;

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85sqm office in separate building; alarm; own well; pantry & laundry room; doub l e g a r a g e ; a u t o matic gate; 3 BBQ’s; the property is completely walled in: 24,950,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093 161 5995, info@gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com Psb23/01-52/ 3-storey modern “BAUHAUS-Style Villa” and a wooden “Traditional Thai Style house” on 1 Rai of land located in Pratumnak, Pattaya; 360sqm living space on 3 floors with gallery; Thai house has 100sqm living space; short distance to the beach; both properties are partly furnished; open living room over 2 floors; dining room; 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1 kitchen; terraces; WiFi; storage rooms; private parking; 75,000,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093 161 5995, info @gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com Psb22/01-52/ Big Villa located in a clean & well maintained Resort in East Pattaya, 12 min drive to Sukhumvit Road; quite & peaceful; 1,632sqm land; living space approx. 500sqm; fully furnished with custom made quality furniture; 1 living room; 1 dining room; 3 bedrooms, 3 ensuite bathrooms, guest toilet, 1 kitchen, maid’s house; pool 10m x 5m (salt water); many terraces; security 7/24h; double garage; fully air-conditioned; laundry, pantry, many storerooms; office; SOLAR hot water; double

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FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2019 23

wall and roof insulation; emergency power generator; double glazed insulation windows; 25.000 liter water storage; 35,000,000 THB or best offer; 092- 753 9309, info@gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com

Condominiums Psc98/03-07/ Porchland Condo Jomtien Owner Sale: One bedroom, 48m2, 8th Floor, high quality. All included. 2.1 Million Baht. Info: 087 138 3523 Psc97/01-05/ Jomtien Plaza, 126sqm, Corner unit, high floor, beach views, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 balconies, foreigner owner, 5.95 million (Negotiable) Tel: 094 461 2395 Psc90/46-08/ Condo for sale: 750,000 Baht. Location in Soi Nernblabwan. Tel: 0963979541, Line ID: domicil24, Email: duangpee. domicil@gmail.com Psc80/01-52/ City-Studio Jomtien VIEW TALAY 1; 6th floor; living space 32sqm; 500m to the beach; fully furnished; 1 livingbedroom; 1 bathroom; kitchen; balcony; WiFi; security 7/24h; community pool; parking; restaurants, bars, supermarket 24h, laundry in the building; directly located at the 10Baht-Taxi route and Shuttle Bus to Airport BKK; 1,250,000 THB; (or rent 7,900 THB) 092- 753 9309,. info@ gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com Psc79/01-52/ Studio on the beach in Pratumnak, 50sqm, totally quite &

peaceful, fully furnished; private access to the beach; big sea view terrace; 1 living-bedroom, 1 bathroom, full kitchen; washing machine; security 7/24h; community pool on beachfront; restaurant on pool side, parking; supermarket and laundry; 2,450,000 THB; (or rent 12,500 THB) 092 7539309, info@gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com Psc76/01-52/ Seaview Apartment in Pattaya, Pratumnak Hills with 2 bedrooms, 11th floor; 3 balconies; living space 101sqm; fully furnished; living room; 2 bathrooms, 1 European kitchen; 2 new airconditioners, ceiling fans; double security door, security 7/24h; fitness gym; sauna; steam room; community pool; parking; restaurants, bars, supermarket, laundry; 7,495,000 THB; Go Property Thailand; 093 161 5995, info@ gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com

Psc74/01-52/ Studio located close to Pattaya Beach and “Rhompo Night Market”, Jomtien 2nd road, living space 47sqm, fully furnished, 1 living/ bedroom, 1 bathroom, kitchenette, terrace, WiFi, Security 7/24h, fitness gym, community pool, garage, “10 Baht Taxi Route”, supermarket, laundry close by: 1,600,000 THB; GO PROPERTY THAILAND 093 -161 5995, info@ gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com

Land for Sale P03/01-05/ Land - House - Condo – Commercial for sale & rent in Bang Saray. Tel. 092-472-5743 (Adam), www.bangsarayarea.com P02/01-52/ Land is located close to Chaiyaprueck Road 2, 629sqm (17m x 37m); completely walled inn with a 3m high wall; 13,000 liter water deposit; own well; 2,950,000 THB or best offer; 092- 753 9309,

Read more news at pattayamail.com info@gopropertythailand.com, www.gopropertythailand.com

Services Provided Sp02/04/ PLANS DRAWN: Design & Construction: Condo Remodeling Tel. 085-083-4221 Sp01/01-05/ House and pool builders - renovations - 092-472-5743 www.handyman.in.th

Staff Wanted Sw01/51-03/ Experienced Freelance Internet Sales Person required: Must speak English, to market solar systems and industrial products from stock held in Rayong warehouse. This position is available on

a 10% commission basis only. Contact Mr. Lee 0861548605

Vehicles for Sale/Rent Vc02/52/ Jay’s Rent A Car: Toyota’s & Honda’s. All top of the range, for your safety all serviced by Toyota/Honda, all have A.B.S./airbags + 1st class rental Insurance. Rent the best. Please ring for details: (Thai) 084-865-5102 or (Eng) 085-283-4915 Vc01/04-05/ Honda CB 750 1992, fully restored 2016, 6 months Tax + Insurance, All paperwork in order for transfer. Might take cheap PX. 110,000 baht. Tel: 062-384-3864

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Viuff gets the winning habit The Jomtien Golf Society Monday, Jan. 14, Greenwood Stableford A pleasant surprise here today as we were playing the A & B course for the first time in quite a while. There were quite a few good comments regarding the course condition, especially the slick greens. Playing off a 10 handicap, Niels Viuff returned the best score of the day to win division 1 with 39 points. Nik Evans was second on 36 point and john Hughes beat Bob Comartin on a 14/13 backnine countback for third after they both came in with 34. A cut of 16-22 in division 2 and Tony Irvine was the winner with a fine 38 points. Rob Somers was second on 36, Jerry McCarthy third with 32 and in fourth place was Rudi Schaefer on 31.

Just back from a trip to Holland, William Chang topped division 3 with 35 points, Frank Grainger was second on 32, Mike Fitzgerald had 31 for third and in fourth position was Jim Connelly with 30. Bob Comartin and John Hughes with two near pins were the winners in division 1 and in division 2 William Chang and Bill Kana shared the honours. In the ‘2’s today, Bob Comartin, Terry Drake and Niels Viuff birdied A6 and John Hughes B5 while Bill Kana in division 2 was the only winner with a birdie on A6.

Wednesday, Jan. 16, Mt. Shadow Stableford The cut today in the three divisions came at 9-16, 1721 and 22 plus and the highest score of the day was

and (Div 2) John Carlin, Bruce Gardner, Finn Olsen and Rob Somers. An amazing seven ‘2’s today with Bob Comartin, Juha Harilo and John Hughes sharing the pot in division 1 and Robert Angell, John Carlin, Mike Fitzgerald and John Carlin doing the same in division 2.

Friday, Jan. 18, Eastern Star From left: Rudi Schaefer, Leo Adam, Frank Grainger Stableford and Mike Fitzgerald.

posted by John Carlin who won division 2 with 37 points. Rob Somers rolled in second on 35, Paul Young was third with 31 and Matti Pihlajisto fourth on 30. In the frame again was Bob Comartin who won division 1 with 36 points ahead of Niels Viuff in second on 34, Phil Heath third with 33 and

John Hughes in fourth on 31. In division 3 Leo Adam was the winner with 31 points while Mike Fitzgerald beat Rudi Schaefer for second on a 15/14 countback after two scores of 30. Frank Grainger was fourth with 29 points. Near pins went to (Div 1) Bob Comartin, Jukka Harilo, John Hughes and Niels Viuff,

Twelve groups out today but with a few ladies playing and three non-competitors the field numbered 41 with the cut set at 9-15, 1621 and 22+. Colin Aspinall with 38 points had the highest score of the day to win division 2 ahead of John Carlin in second four points behind and Paul Young third on 33. Kevin Shanaghan beat Frank Kelly

and Jerry McCarthy on a 16/ 15/13 countback for fourth after they all came in with 29 points. With 35 points Alan Bissell beat Ron Lavett on a 17/16 countback to win division 3 and Lars Strom edged Jim Connelly 18/16 on countback for the minor places after two 30-point returns. In division 1 the highest score was a modest 33 points with Niels Viuff winning yet again. An amazing 16/16 11/11 5/5 3/2 countback saw Les Smith beat Dennis Scougall for second after they both came in with 32 points and Bob Comartin finished fourth with 30. Near pins were claimed by (Div 1) Gerald Dooley and Niels Viuff (2), and (Div 2) Ron Lavett, Rob Somers and Paul Sturgeon. Leo Adam birdied the 17th and Lars Strom the 13th for the only ‘2’s of the day.

Billy’s blinder at Green Valley Traveller’s Rest Golf Group Monday, Jan. 14, Plutaluang – Stableford Division 1 1st Sam Lee (18) 40pts 2nd Nathan Sheridan (18) 37pts 3rd Tony Healy (0) 35pts Division 2 1st Han Jeong-In (27) 37pts 2nd Jim Sheridan (26) 37pts 3rd Warren Shelley (32) 35pts We start this week’s report on East and South courses at Plutaluang where division two’s winner posted a solid front nine to set up the win. Han Jeong-In negotiated the course well to hold out the rest of his division and claim the number one spot with 36 points. In division one Sam Lee rocketed to the top of the leader board with an incredible 40 points and eclipsed Nathan Sheridan who was quietly confident that his 37 was going to be enough.

Tuesday, Jan. 15, Green Valley – Stableford Division 1 1st Arnold Jones (14) 37pts 2nd Tony Healy (11) 38pts 3 rd Neil Wilkinson (13) 36pts

Division 2 1st Billy Allan (23) 40pts 2nd Mike Koh (19) 37pts 3rd Peter Cahill (19) 37pts Today was the finals of the TRGG-Ferdinand Cup. Billy Allan was seen on the driving range, Saturday, Sunday and Monday and it paid off as his net 68 was easily enough to smash the opposition. In division one it was a tough battle for line honours as A.J. and Tony Healy fought it out. When the dust had settled it was A.J. who won the day with 37 points, however Tony was the one everyone was talking about as his “Ace” on hole number 16 was the topic of the day, as was the subsequent “Ringing of the Bell”.

Wednesday, Jan. 16, Crystal Bay – Stableford Division 1 1st Kim Seung-Hwan (12) 38pts 2nd Mr Yamoa (10) 36pts 3rd Barry Wood (13) 36pts Division 2 1st Han Jeong-In (27) 46pts 2nd Warren Shelley (32) 39pts 3rd Sam Lee (18) 38pts

Friday, Jan. 18, Burapha – Stableford

Billy Allan.

Terry Martin.

Crystal Bay is in great condition and for the high season the cost is amazing value for money. Han JeongIn has played twelve rounds of golf with the Traveller’s and shot an unbelievable 46 points today to easily win division two. Meanwhile in division one his fellow countryman Kim Seung-Hwan posted a respectable 38 points to make it a daily double for the South Koreans.

Division 2 1st S.P. Lee (23) 40pts 2nd Mitch Ikeda (19) 40pts 3rd Warren Shelly (30) 38pts Today we had forty-seven players taking on the Lakes and Ocean courses at Phoenix and it was a day where S.P. Lee finally broke through to record his first victory for 2019. S.P. had a game of two nines, with only fifteen points on the front side he took the course apart on the inward half, shooting two over the stick (25 points) and finishing the day with 40 points. In division one it was Stephen Baines’ turn to get his name on the leaderboard and his 41 points was five shots clear of his closest contender.

Thursday, Jan. 16, Phoenix - Stableford Division 1 1 st Stephen Baines (14) 41pts 2nd Alan Thomas (6) 36pts 3rd Mike Rushant (11) 34pts

Division 1 1st Scotch Kim (16) 40pts 2nd Jim Best (14) 36pts 3rd Kim Seung-Hwan (12) 36pts Division 2 1st Terry Martin (19) 35pts 2nd Kim Yun-Seo (18) 34pts 3rd Y. Kanai (17) 34pts Burapha saw a record breaking fifty-four players’ sign up and as we couldn’t get an equitable split in three divisions we had to settle for two, with additional places in each. In division the big hitting Terry Martin smashed his way around the course to post 35 points and walked off thinking he hadn’t done enough, but he was pleasantly surprised to find out he was a winner. In division one Scotch Kim rose to the occasion and posted two consistently strong nines to achieve his 40 points and earn a deserved mention at the presentation ceremony.

Saturday, Jan. 19, Treasure Hill – Stableford Division 1 1st Kim Suk-Bum (16) 40pts 2nd Bob Newman (10) 38pts 3rd Kim Seung-Hwan (12) 38pts Division 2 1st Peter Cahill (18) 32pts 2nd Sam Lee (17) 32pts 3rd Warren Shelly (29) 32pts We finished this week at Treasure Hill where yet another “Ace” was recorded. Sandy B. used a seven-iron to slam dunk the par-three 13th and registered his second hole in one in his golfing career. Meanwhile, a very surprised Peter Cahill took out line honours in his division with a mere 32 points. In fact all three places in division 2 were 32 pointers and all were decided on a countback. In division one the lower handicaps fared much better with Kim SukBum accumulating an unbeatable 40 points.

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Bramley blitz at Phoenix PSC Golf from The Billabong Bar Monday, Jan. 14, Phoenix Gold Stableford

Wednesday, Jan. 16, Green Valley – Stableford

Phoenix Ocean and Mountain loops today and they were in great condition. The scoring was absolutely unbelievable and when 39 points doesn’t get a mention in dispatches you know the players were tearing it up. There was a countback for the minor places with Glenn Smith losing it and having to settle for fourth place behind Glyn Davies in third, both with 40 points. Jim Payne came second with 42 points and Dave Bramley had a day in the sunshine, scoring a great 43 points for the win. There were four ‘2’s, coming from Glenn Smith, Dave Bramley, Jim Payne and Julie Battersby.

Tuesday’s rain certainly helped the conditions today and the course was looking really good. In the ladies competition there was some admirable performances with Miss Sasicha (H/cap 21) coming third with 40 points overall and 24 points on the front nine. The consistent Miss Nu (16) did the reverse with 23 points on the way home with four pars and one birdie but failed to overtake Miss Porn (22) on 41 points who had 7 pars in her round. The men’s scores were not as impressive – with one exception – with Selwyn Wegner (15) occupying fourth place with 34 points, losing on a countback to John Locke (20) despite John having 6 double

bogies. Wayne Cotterell (12) cannot avoid the limelight recently and featured yet again in second place, not only grabbing the headlines with 36 points but setting a record for the Billabong by having three 2s, each of them threatening the hole. Gareth Gill (8) recorded a very good 76 gross and 40 points to win the day and this included 5 birdies, 3 of them consecutively from the 12th. There were seven ‘2’s, from Miss Nu, Gareth, George Zadora, Selwyn and 3 to Cottee.

Friday, Jan. 18, Burapha - Stableford Burapha was heaving on Friday and some of the caddies faced a 45-hole day. Thanks go to the management and staff doing the marshaling as it turned out to be only a 4½ hour round of golf.

Wright gets the gold The Tara Court Golf Society Sunday, Jan. 13, Green Valley - Stableford We had our most important competition of the year here at Green Valley today when we had both our first monthly medal of 2019 and also the one everyone wants to win, our gold medal competition for all the winners of the monthly medals in 2018. Out of the ten who qualified there were eight of them playing and Kevyn Wright (H/cap 10) came out the winner with a very good net 71, which also got him the third place in the A flight in the overall competition. We had three flights today with the cut for the A flight coming out at thirteen, the B flight at twenty one and the C flight at twenty two up. In the A flight the winner and also the winner of our first monthly medal for the year was Michael Williams with a net 70. Shaun Merriman (12) came second with a net 71, beating Kevyn on the count back. In the B flight Paul Butler (17) was the winner with a net 73. Paddy Naughton (16) came second with a net 75 and Donal McGuigan (18) third with a net 76. Larry Eden (22) was the winner In the C flight with a net 71, beating Avril Wildsmith (27) on countback. Joe Peters (23) came third with a net 76. We had two ‘2’s today, coming from Avril Wildsmith and Paul Pavloff.

Tuesday, Jan. 15, Mt. Shadow - Stableford Our regular monthly visit today and 26 players in 2 divisions found a busy course but we were still away about 5 minutes early for a 4 hour 10 minute round. The course needs some minor attention to bring it back to good condition. In the “A” division first place went to Shaun Merriman (12) with 36 points, second to Donal Lyne (17) on 35 and third to Russell Gilroy (17) with 34, beating Craig Hitchens (11) on countback. “B” flight saw the only player to break handicap and it was Donal McGuigan (18) with a fine 37 points. In his first game this trip Michael Seery (22) came second on 33 points, Joe Peters (23) was third with 32 and Pat Carty (23) took fourth on countback over Larry Eden, both with 29 points.

Glyn Davies, Dave Bramley, Jim Payne and Glenn Smith.

We had a young man from Italy playing with us today, a professional golfer with a set of borrowed clubs older than he was but he still shot only 3 over the card. Paul Greenaway slam dunked a shot from 140 yards out for an eagle but the day

today belonged to our visitor from New Zealand, Julie Battersby, who shot 83 off the stick from a 17 handicap to score 42 points. The nearest to the that was Slugger Bramley with 37 points while John Locke took third with 36 and Bob Lindborg got the

last podium spot with 35. We had 4 near pins today sponsored by Auke Engelkes to celebrate his wedding to his beautiful bride and they were won by Gerard Lambert, Glyn Davies, George Zadro and Paul Greenaway. A big toast to a very happy marriage!

Van Dyk at the double PSC Golf from the Tropical Golf Group Tuesday, Jan. 15, Khao Kheow Stableford

Kevyn Wright.

There were three ‘2’s from Jerry Sweetnam, Ted Morris & Donal Lyne.

Thursday, Jan. 17, Pattana - Stableford We decided to make a visit here to Pattana to play the B and C nines and as usual the course was in magnificent condition. We had three flights with some good scores coming in all of them. Our best score of the day came in the B flight where John Kelly (31) had a brilliant 39 points to come out a very clear winner. Here Bernie Stafford (18) came second with 34, Brian Lalor (26) was third with 31 and Pat Carty (23) took fourth with 30. In the Red flight Larry Eden (22) was again the winner with 33 points and Avril Wildsmith (27) came second with 31. In the A flight Shaun Merriman (12) kept up his good form and he won again with an excellent 38 points. Craig Hitchens (11) also played very good golf and came second with 36. Kevyn Wright (10) took third with 34 and Kevin Blake (7) was fourth with 33. We had two ‘2’s today, coming from Shaun Merriman and Barney Sheedy.

Khao Kheow Country Club was on the day’s agenda, and it is never easy to run up a big stableford score on this course. Today’s point totals were no exception. Alan Sullivan was the only player to better his handicap while Barry Elphick was able to take first in the C flight after totaling less than 30 points. The greens were quick, and some large patches of the course were brown, with dried grass. I understood from my caddie, that there was a problem with the irrigation system. Mechanics at the pump house seemed to be working on the problem so let’s hope for the best. Today we had a total field of 19 players, with eleven winners, spread over three flights. In the A flight (0–14) Alan Sullivan was on top with 37 points, playing from his handicap of 14. Second went to John Davis (10) with 34 and Paul Sharples’ (13) on 30 points took third on countback over Steve Truelove and Brian Parish. In the B flight (15-22) Andre Van Dyk (17) was first with 35 points and Josef Buchberger (16) took second over Brian Gabe (16) on countback, both on 31 points. In the C flight (23 and up) Barry Elphick (29) didn’t break 30 points, but his 29 was all he needed to claim first place. Patrick Poussier (28) also had 29 points but lost

Andre Van Dyk and Bob Britton.

the top spot on countback. Torsten Bischoff (23) placed third with 28. The best front nine, not placing, went to Brian Parrish’s 17, while Rob Brown had the best back nine score, also with 17 points.

Friday, Jan 18, Greenwood Stableford Twenty-five Tropical golfers headed to Greenwood for the first time this year. Some had shiny new golf gear to break in, or maybe just break. We knew in advance that three golf groups where scheduled for the same time and there was some trepidation it would turn into a chaotic mess. Greenwood staff was up the challenge however, and the well choreographed start let all groups get around without bumping into each other. Greens were in very good condition and fairways, while good overall, were a botanist’s dream with numerous kinds of

grass, clover and some weeds on each one. Fourteen golfers had their names called, and we hope the announcers don’t get laryngitis soon. Many good scores showed that the course played well, and Andre Van Dyk deserves special notice as the best of the day with 41 points. In the A-Flight (0-13) Bob Britton took the honours with 37points ahead of Steve Trulove in second with 34, Brian Parish third on 33 and Landis Brooks fourth with 32. B-Flight (14-23) went to Andre Van Dyk’s 41 while Dick Warberg took the silver on 38, Tom Herrington occupied the bronze position with 34 and Joe Sparwirth completed the podium in fourth on 33. Gordon Clegg’s even par 36 points was enough to win the C-Flight (24+) ahead of David Bailey on countback while Barry Elphick was third with 33 and Kurt E. fourth on 32. Torsten Bischoff and Rob Brown had the best half rounds.

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A double helping of Stu PSC Golf from the Pattaya Links Golf Society an outside chance and, on a tough day at a tough course, he came through with the win in “B” flight (19+) and his 35 points got him another green jacket. Derek Phillips had one of his better games to take second place with 32 points, beating Darren Beavers on countback. Our only lady golfer today, Avril Wildsmith, took fourth place on her first outing with Links, scoring 31 points and leaving returnee Soren Hansen to fill fifth place on countback. Near pins went to Garry Bright, Steve Eddowes, Kenny Jepson and Tom Herrington.

Monday, Jan. 14, Burapha C & D Stableford A Flight (0-17) 1st Phil Davies (12) 37pts 2nd Colm Lawlor (14) 36pts 3rd Marco Beer (17) 35pts 4th Alan Thomas (7) 34pts 5th Andy Kelleher (10) 34pts B Flight (18+) 1st Stuart Thompson (18) 38pts 2nd Keith Melbourne (35) 35pts 3rd Phil Scotton (21) 34pts 4th Derek Phillips (19) 33pts 5th Darren Beavers (19) 33pts The PLGS’s week began with a field of forty golfers attempting to get the better of Burapha C and D nines. The large field was divided into two flights cut at seventeen and under. In the top flight Andy Kelleher marked his return to the group with a fifth place finish on 34 points, losing out to Alan Thomas in fourth on countback. Marco Beer celebrated his final round this trip with 35 points and third place whilst Colm Lawlor finished runner-up with level par 36 points. After a few lacklustre rounds Mr Phil came back with a bounce and took the win with 37 points. The second flight was no less exciting with a countback separating Darren Beavers and Derek Phillips for fourth and fifth places with 33 points each. Phil Scotton, new to the group, presented his credentials with 34 points to take third. Keith Melbourne acquitted himself well with a second placed finish on 35 points but the winner, with

Stu Thompson (center) with Malcolm Cox (left) and John Pearce.

the best score of the day, was Stu Thompson with an outstanding 38 points for his second successive Green Jacket. It was the group’s second “helping” of Stu in four days and his game certainly has the all the ingredients for success. The technical prizes were well shared out with near pins going to Dave Cooper (C5), Richard Dobson (C8), Pete Seil (D2) and Alan Thomas (D8). The longest successful putt on the final hole went to Michael Kaps, showing an immediate improvement on his previous round “wig”. The best front nine score was that of Kevin LaBar with 20 points. The award for the best back nine went to Steve Eddowes with 18 points.

Wednesday, Jan. 16, Treasure Hill Stableford A Flight (0-18) 1st Will Brown (18) 35pts 2nd Colin Service (16) 34pts 3rd Ray Banks (11) 33pts 4th Garry Bright (11) 33pts 5th Ralph McConnell (17) 32pts B Flight (19+) 1st Kenny Jepson (27) 35pts 2nd Derek Phillips (19) 32pts 3rd Darren Beavers (19) 32pts 4th Avril Wildsmith (27) 31pts 5th Soren Hansen (19) 30pts On this day Treasure Hill was the big winner with none of our forty golfers able to play to their handicap. The course was in great condition but some of the pin placements made life a little more difficult.

Pratt battles at the sharp end PSC Golf from Siam Country Resort Pattaya Tuesday, Jan. 15, Treasure Hill Stableford On Tuesday we went to Treasure Hill with 4 groups. The course was in very good condition but the trees on the fairways and the greens prevented high scores. We had nice sunny weather with a cool breeze. Jonathan Pratt and Paul Davies kept each other in balance. Both played very well and ended with 36 stableford points, but Jonathan was the best on the back-nine and took the win. Third was Martin Hayes with 35 points. The near pins went to Bob Edwards, Willem Lasonder and George Gamble..

Thursday, Jan. 17, King Naga Stableford King Naga was our venue on Thursday and the course was in good condition with

Paul Davies, Martin Hayes and Jonathan Pratt.

many challenging holes. The greens were not top today however and played slow. We missed the cool breeze today, but we survived the 18 holes. Jonathan Pratt confirmed his good form this week and today his closest opponent was Willem Lasonder. Both ended with 37 points, but

this time Willem edged it by 1 shot better on the countback. George Gamble came third with 33 points, beating Martin Hayes and Stan Rees on the countback. Near pins were claimed by Stan Rees (almost his second hole-in-one), Paddy Devereux and Jonathan Pratt.

The “A” flight (0-18) saw William Brown taking the win at long odds with an impressive 35 points. Next came consistent Colin Service, who is usually somewhere near the top and 34 points kept him up there. Ray Banks was in the placings again by taking third spot on a countback over Garry Bright, both had 33 points, while Ralph McConnell rounded out the podium with 32 points for fifth. Kenny Jepson was always

Friday, Jan. 18, Greenwood A & C, Stableford A Flight (0-20) 1st Wayne Peppernell (14) 39pts 2nd Ralph McConnell (17) 39pts 3rd Mike Kaps (18) 39pts 4th Zac Carson (4) 38pts 5th Jason Kerr (2) 38pts B Flight (21+) 1st Greg Thompson (22) 36pts 2nd John Hughes (21) 35pts 3rd Keith Melbourne (35) 32pts 4th Len Jones (32) 32pts 5th Tip Briney (27) 31pts This course is looking a treat right now with the plenty of water to keep the fairways

green. Some areas, perhaps, had a little too much water and were soft, with the ball picking up some mud, but had good run. Great conditions gave us the good scores we might have expected and gave us a thrilling three-way tie in the “A” flight. Wayne Peppernell has been in excellent form this last couple of weeks and with the more powerful finish held out in a tight countback situation. All three players had fine scores of 39 points, so Ralph McConnell then won his countback against an unlucky Mike Kaps who had his final game this trip. Right behind them were two newcomers to Links, with 38 points each. Zac Carson won the countback from Jason Kerr. “B” flight was a little more cut and dried with returning Greg Thompson scoring first up with 36 points. John Hughes was right on his tail with 35 points and then came another countback as Keith Melbourne nudged out his mate, Len Jones, just. Both did well for 32 points, and Tip Briney rounded out the podium with 31. Near pins were claimed by Ralph McConnell, Mike Kaps, Tony Kerry and Jason Kerr.

More treasure for Brown PSC Golf from Café Kronborg Monday, Jan. 14, Treasure Hill – Stableford A Flight (0-22) 1st Rob Brown (7) 39pts 2nd Henning Olsen (21) 33pts 3rd Peter Bygballe (18) 32pts B Flight (23+) 1st Jan Lovegreen (23) 30pts 2nd Peter Hammond (30) 28pts 3rd Ulla Ravn (36) 28pts Near Pins: Rob Brown (x2). Long Putts: Kjeld Ravn, Jan Lovegreen. Cafe Kronborg golfers visited the excellent Treasure Hill course today and our recent double winner Rob Brown was at it again, picking up much treasure and winning the A Flight by six shots. Forcing Rob to play golf four times a week - arranging for a bee to sting him - arranging for the penalty areas to come into his play by forcing him to play from the forward tees - all have not worked! Henning Olsen was three points behind Rob in second place while Peter Bygballe was a further point back in third. Scores were more modest in the B Flight and Jan Lovegreen won it with thirty points, ahead of Peter Hammond and Ulla Ravn in second and third respectively.

Rob Brown (right) and Jan Lovegreen (left) with Dave Richardson.

Thursday, Jan. 16, Plutaluang N & W Stableford A Flight (0-21) 1st Akitoshi Ito (10) 38pts 2nd Rob Brown (7) 35pts 3 rd Henning Olsen (21) 34pts B Flight (22+) 1st Jan Lovegreen (23) 30pts 2nd Peter Hammond (30) 28pts 3rd Allan Prang (24) 28pts Near Pins: Allan Prang, Kenneth Marsden. Long Putts: Rob Brown, Akitoshi Ito Cafe Kronborg visited the fine Navy golf course today and played our favourite North and West nines. Once

again nothing to write about the condition of the course that has not been said before - first-class! By arranging a Japanese incursion we were able to bring a halt (albeit only temporary) to our prolific A Flight winner Rob Brown. Akitoshi Ito with a great score of 38 points won the premier flight by three shots from Rob, who, despite rumours, was not crying. B Flight was taken out by our double winner Jan Lovegreen who may soon find the dirty tricks brigade move their allegiance from Rob Brown. Watch out Jan for the return of the Italian and the bee!

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Scambler has a scorcher at Pattavia PSC Golf from the Bunker Boys Monday, Jan. 14, Mt. Shadow – Stableford 1st Jimmy Carr (15) 39pts 2nd Tony Scambler (18) 36pts 3rd Kob Glover (27) 34pts 4th Neil Carter (11) 33pts 5th John Jack (21) 32pts 6th Raleigh Gosney (22) 32pts We had the biggest field this high season so far (twentyfive) for our game at the difficult Mountain Shadow course. It was a very hot day and a slow round with a few holdups along the way. Today Jimmy Carr found his best form to take first place with a fine score of thirty-nine points. Tony Scambler, despite his medical certificate for all his ailments, put together a good score of thirty-six, Kob Glover took third with thirty-four and Neil Carter was one point adrift in fourth. John Jack made his debut in the winner’s circle in fifth on thirty-two, edging out Raleigh Gosney into sixth place. Near pins went to Tony Scambler, Bob Cowell, Ken Elmore, and Kob Glover.

DATE:

Tony Scambler.

Wednesday, Jan. 16, Royal Lakeside – Stableford 1st Robby Watts (9) 39pts 2nd Les Cobban (8) 36pts 3rd Phil Mashiter (6) 35pts 4th Kob Glover (27) 34pts 5th Kevin Labar (13) 33pts Despite the higher than average green fees and the travel distance to the course, we managed to attract a good field of twenty-three for the game at Royal Lakeside. Imagine our delight when we went to check-in to be told our green fees had been

FRI 25

Apple’s Irish

Eastern Star

Bunker Boys

King Naga

SAT 26

paid and we should go straight to the starter on the first tee. Our joy was short lived when we found another group with a similar sounding name “The Banger Boys” were all ready to go with caddies etc. It was another slow round but not as bad as recent games so all in all not too bad. The course was in very nice condition as always with a slight wind blowing so no excuses for poor scores. Robby Watts blitzed the field with an excellent round of thirty-nine and will receive a cut in his handicap of one stroke. Les Cobban is again back on track and took second place with thirty-six. Phil Mashiter, in his last week with us, took third with thirty-five points and Kob Glover continues to build her game and took fourth place with thirty-four. Kob is now the most improved player in the Bunker Boys against handicap. Kevin Labar rounded out the winner’s circle with a round of thirty-three and also snared a near pin, as did

SUN 27

Le Katai

1st Tony Scambler (18) 40pts 2nd Ken Davidson (23) 40pts 3rd Peter Allen (29) 37pts 4th Andy Gray (29) 36pts 5th Jim Payne (33) 36pts A good field of twenty-four rolled up for today’s round and despite the course being very crowded the game was played at a good pace, with the lead group finished in three and a half hours. The course was in reasonable condition given that it is heavily used, but once again the greens had a few people scratching their heads, wicked slopes and fast greens make for much frustration for ordinary and even good putters. For the second time in a month, Tony Scambler blitzed the field with forty points. Given all his ailments this was a remarkable feat as he could barely mount the stairs back to the clubhouse

MON 28

TUE 29

Greenwood

WED 30

Mt.Shadow

Green Valley

Burapha

Phoenix

Plutaluang

Greenwood

Siam Old Course

The Links

Pattavia

THU 31

FRI 1

Pattaya C.C. Royal Lakeside

Pleasant Valley

Lewinski’s

score of thirty-seven points to take third place. Andy Gray signed off with a round of thirty-six for fourth place and generously rang the bell. In a rare visit to the Bunker Boys, Jim Payne rounded out the winner’s circle with thirty-six points.

Bangpakong

Greenwood

Growling Swan Billabong Golf

Friday, Jan. 18, Pattavia – Stableford

at the finish. Former club champion Ken Davidson is hitting good form just in time for the memorial and also carded a round of forty but beaten on countback. The diminutive Peter Allen appeared at the presentation so it was clear he had a good

Khao Kheow

Cafe Kronborg Colin’s Golf

Kob, with Robby Watts and Barry Gosson taking the other two.

Pattavia Green Valley Crystal Bay

Treasure Hill

Burapha Mt. Shadow Siam Old Course

Burapha

Pattaya C.C.

Pattavia

I Rovers Retox Game On

K.Kheow/Bangpra

B’pakong/Pattaya CC Pattavia/Greenwood

Siam Country

Pattaya C.C.

Sugar Shack

The Emerald

Harry’s Golf

Pattaya C.C.

The Golf Club

P.Valley/T.Hill

Greenwood

King Naga

C.Bay/Wangjuntr

K.Kheow/Pattana

Crystal Bay

Plutaluang

Pleasant Valley Green Valley

The Players Lounge Tropical Golf

Treasure Hill

Valley View Hackers

Green Valley

Outback Golf Bar

Green Valley

Burapha

Pattaya C.C. Green Valley

Green Valley Chee Chan

Green Valley

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 Dave on tel. 038 602 2117). Colin’s Bar plays golf Sun/Mon/Wed & Fri (www.colinsbar.com). The Growling Swan plays golf on Monday & Thursday (www.thegrowlingswan.com). Lewinski’s in Soi Pattayaland 1 (Soi 13/3), now have a new schedule, 5 days per week Monday thru Friday. Transport is available everyday, call Jack on 0815781956 for further information and booking. 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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VOL. XXVII No. 4

Patriots, Rams earn Super Bowl berths with OT wins Kansas City, Mo. (AP) — The New England Patriots are headed to their third straight Super Bowl, once more thanks to Tom Brady’s brilliance. The five-time NFL champion guided the Patriots 75 yards after winning the overtime coin toss, and backup Rex Burkhead’s 2-yard TD lifted New England past Kansas City 37-31 for the AFC championship last Sunday night. The drive against an exhausted defense was reminiscent of when the Patriots beat Atlanta in the only Super Bowl to go to OT two years ago. New England (13-5) benefited from two critical replay reviews and made its ninth Super Bowl with Brady at quarterback and Bill Belichick as coach. Awaiting them in Atlanta are the Los Angeles Rams, who won 26-23 in overtime in New Orleans for the NFC championship. The Rams last made the Super Bowl in 2002 while based in St. Louis, losing to the Patriots. It’s the first time both conference title games went to OT. The last time both visitors won conference championship matches was 2012.

Several times, the Patriots appeared to have it won, only to see Kansas City (13-5) come back in spectacular fashion. Brady, at 41 already the oldest quarterback to have played in a Super Bowl, drove New England 65 yards in 1:24 to Burkhead’s go-ahead 4yard touchdown with 39 seconds left in regulation. That was enough, though, for his far younger counterpart, the 23-year-old Patrick Mahomes, to take the Chiefs 48 yards to Harrison Butker’s 39-yard field goal with 8 seconds left to force overtime. Rams 26, Saints 23, OT New Orleans - Greg Zuerlein kicked a 57-yard field goal in overtime and Los Angeles, helped by a huge missed call by the officials, advanced to the Super Bowl with a victory over New Orleans in the NFC championship game. The stunning finish came after New Orleans got the ball first in the extra period. Under pressure, Drew Brees fluttered up a pass that was picked off by John Johnson III, who was able to hang on to the interception while falling onto his back. Johnson hopped up and celebrated by doing with the “Choppa Style” dance

New England Patriots running back Sony Michel (right) runs to the end zone for a touchdown during the first half of the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Jan. 20, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

popularized by New Orleans rapper Choppa, whose namesake song had become a Saints’ rallying cry. The Rams weren’t able to do much offensively, but it didn’t matter. Zuerlein, who had already delivered a tying 48-yard kick with 15 seconds left in regulation, booted through the winning

Kohli wins 3 awards, named skipper of ICC test & ODI teams

India’s Virat Kohli bats during a one day international against Australia in Melbourne, Australia, Friday, Jan. 18. (AP Photo/Mal Fairclough)

Dubai, UAE (AP) — India captain Virat Kohli became first player in history to win three major ICC awards and was also named skipper of both ICC test and ODI teams of the year on Tuesday. Kohli was named cricketer of the year and won the Sir Garfield trophy, was named best test player of the year and also ODI player of the year after his extraordinary batting form in 2018. The 30-year-old Kohli scored 1,322 runs at an average of 55.08 with five centuries in

13 matches. He also scored 1,202 runs in 14 ODIs that featured six centuries and came at an astonishing average of 133.55. “It feels amazing. It’s a reward for all the hard work that you do throughout the calendar year,” Kohli said. “I feel really grateful and very, very happy with the team doing well at the same time myself performing. “Having recognition at the global level from the ICC is something you feel proud of as a cricketer because you

understand that there are many players playing the game.” Kohli had won the Sir Garfield Trophy and ODI player of the year awards last year and was also the ODI player of the year in 2012. ICC chief executive David Richardson congratulated Kohli for his impressive form in 2018. “To be recognized as a true cricketing great you need to be successful at all formats of the game and Virat has become a great ambassador for our sport,” Richardson said.

field goal from just inside midfield with plenty of room to spare.

The Superdome, which had been in uproar all afternoon, suddenly turned eerily silent.

It was the first home playoff loss for the Saints with Brees and coach Sean Payton, who had been 6-0 in those games since their pairing began in 2006. The Rams (15-3) and their 32-year-old coach, Sean McVay, capped a remarkable rise since moving back to Los Angeles three years ago. The team will be appearing in its first Super Bowl since the 2001 season, when the “Greatest Show on Turf” was still in St. Louis. It was another bitter end to the season for the Saints, who lost the previous season in the divisional round on the “Minnesota Miracle” — the Vikings’ long touchdown pass on the final play of the game. This time, New Orleans (144) squandered an early 13-0 lead and couldn’t overcome a blown call in the closing minutes of regulation, when the officials failed to flag a blatant pass interference penalty on Los Angeles Nickell RobeyColeman inside the 5.

Pacquiao dominates in retaining title against Broner Tim Dahlberg Las Vegas (AP) — Manny Pacquiao showed last Saturday night he’s still got plenty of fight for a fighter on the wrong side of 40. Whether Pacquiao’s dominating win over Adrien Broner gets him a rematch with Floyd Mayweather, though, is a question that will have to be answered another night. With Mayweather watching from ringside, Pacquiao showed flashes of his old speed in winning a unanimous 12-round decision over Broner to easily defend his piece of the welterweight title. It was the 61st win of a remarkable career in which Pacquiao has won titles in eight weight classes. And it put to rest any thoughts of retirement after 24 years as a pro. “The Manny Pacquiao journey will still continue,” Pacquiao said. Fighting for the first time at the age of 40, the senator from the Philippines won a lopsided decision that was never in doubt before a crowd that roared at every punch he landed. The decision was never in doubt, but Pacquiao pressed the fight into the later rounds as he tried unsuccessfully to score a knockout. Two judges favored Pacquiao by a 116-112 score, while the third had it 117-111. There were no knockdowns, but Pacquiao landed the heavier punches — and lots of them. He caught Broner in the seventh and ninth rounds with big left hands that sent him backward, while Broner spent most of the fight looking for one big counter that never came. “At the age of 40 I can still give my best,” Pacquiao said. “ Although I wanted to be aggressive more, my camp told me don’t be careless and to counter him and wait for opportunities. “ Both fighters were cautious late, as the fight slowed in the final two rounds. Pacquiao was clearly the favorite of the crowd of 13,025, who gathered at the MGM Grand arena to see if the part-time fighter still had some fight in him. Turned out Pacquiao did, and then some as he pushed the attack against Broner.

Manny Pacquiao celebrates his win against Adrien Broner after their WBA welterweight title boxing match Saturday, Jan. 19, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)

Pacquiao was the aggressor from the opening bell, and he had to be because Broner threw only occasional punches in the opening rounds. Pacquiao attacked at will, winning round after round before the fight started to heat up in the middle rounds. Broner, meanwhile, fought like he was merely trying to survive, despite being 11 years younger than his opponent. He was booed loudly as he raised his hands in victory and jumped on the corner ropes as if he had won. “I beat him, everybody out there knows I beat him,” Broner said. “I clearly won the last seven rounds.” Mayweather watched it all intently from his ringside seat, and was coy about possibly coming out of retirement for a reprise of the 2015 lackluster fight Mayweather won by decision over Pacquiao. Showtime announcer Jim Gray tried to get Mayweather to climb in the ring after the fight and discuss a possible bout with Pacquiao, but Mayweather demurred.

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Younger returns to the winner’s circle PSC Golf from the Growling Swan Monday, Jan. 14, Parichat - Stableford 1st Dave Maw (18) 30pts 2nd Steve Younger (13) 27pts Near Pins: Keith Buchanan, Paul Sharples (x2). Long Putts: Paul Sharples, Stuart Mann. Not much talk about the condition of this course other than “the water.” From what was said by the nine who played today, the course was overall in good nick. Dave Maw avoided the water hazards best and won the day with a modest 30 points on his card. Steve Younger finished runner-up today, three points behind Dave.

Thursday, Jan. 17, Greenwood - Stableford

Near Pins: Colm Lawlor, Bill Steinmann, Bill Steinmann, Allan Ray. Long Putts: Peter Grey, Dave Maw. Greenwood was the destination for today’s game and with the green fees set at 800 baht it was excellent value for money. We attacked the course from the yellow tees and played the A & B nines. Fairways were in great shape, the greens played true but a little slow and the bunkers were clean and raked. Returning to the winners circle for the first time in a while was Steve Younger who came in with a good score of 38 points, hotly pursued by Colm Lawlor only one shot in arrears.

1st Steve Younger (28) 38pts 2nd Colm Lawlor (18) 37pts

Panthers send open invitation to new rugby players Janewattananond wins Singapore

From left rear: Dave Maw, Paul Sharples, Steve Younger, Brendan Cope and Keith Buchanan, front row, Shane Young, Allan Ray, Mark Stapleton and Stuart Mann.

Pattaya Panthers is a social rugby union club that organizes weekly practice sessions and a handful of matches and tours every year. The emphasis of the club revolves around working up a sweat on the rugby field with a bunch of likeminded individuals and sharing a beer or two afterwards. The club welcomes all ages, genders, body sizes and levels of rugby playing experience and ability. Training takes place at Horseshoe Point in east Pattaya every Thursday evening between 19.00 – 20.30hrs and all those with an interest in the game are more than welcome to

Open with final round 65

Train with the Pattaya Panthers rugby club every Thursday night at Horseshoe Point.

attend. For more information, visit the Pattaya Panthers Facebook page or send

an email to infor@pattaya panthers.com or pattaya panthersrfc@gmail.com.

Federer, 37, shocked by Tsitsipas, 20, at Australian Open Howard Fendrich Melbourne (AP) — Roger Federer’s bid for a third consecutive Australian Open title ended in a surprising 67 (11), 7-6 (3), 7-5, 7-6 (5) loss to 20-year-old Stefanos Tsitsipas, the first player from Greece to reach a Grand Slam quarterfinal. The key stat in last Sunday’s match was that Federer failed to convert any of the 12 break points he earned. Tsitsipas went 1 for 3 in that category, getting his only break in the last game of the third set. At 37, Federer was the oldest man left in the field and would have been the oldest quarterfinalist in Australia since Ken Rosewall at 43 in 1977. Tsitsipas is the youngest. This one was a thriller from beginning to end, both in terms of the high quality and entertaining style of play

Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas (right) is congratulated by Switzerland’s Roger Federer after winning their fourth round match at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, Sunday, Jan. 20. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

from both men — long expected of Federer; the world is still learning what Tsitsipas can do. His soft hands serve him well on volleys, and he is that rare man who will press forward as often as Federer and have nearly as much success. On

this cool evening, Tsitsipas won the point on 48 of 68 trips to the net, while Federer went 50 for 66. “It was a dream come true for me ... just facing him,” Tsitsipas said about Federer. “Winning at the end? I cannot describe it, you know.”

Singapore (AP) — Jazz Janewattananond shot a finalround 65 last Sunday to win the Singapore Open and qualify for this year’s British Open. The Thai player carded seven birdies over the Serapong Course at Sentosa Golf Club to finish at 18-under 266, two strokes ahead of Yoshinori Fujimoto (68) and Paul Casey (65), who had already secured his place at Royal Portrush. Fujimoto also qualified and will make his second appearance in golf’s original championship following his debut

at Royal Lytham & St Annes in 2012. Doyeob Mun (72) and Prom Meesawat (68) were tied for fifth and also clinched qualifying places for the July 1421 tournament. Defending champion Sergio Garcia shot a 68 to finish tied for seventh with Gunn Charoenkui. The next event in the British Open qualifying series will be the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill in Orlando, Florida, from March 7-10.

Thailand’s Jazz Janewattananond holds the champion’s trophy after winning the Singapore Open at the Sentosa Golf Club in Singapore, Sunday, Jan. 20. (Photo courtesy Asian Tour)

China edge Thailand in Asian Cup knockout round Abu Dhabi, UAE (AP) — Marcello Lippi’s China had to recover from a goal down to beat Thailand 2-1 in the first round of knockout games at the Asian Cup in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates last Sunday, a result which sent China through to a quarter-final tie against Iran on Thursday. Supachai Jaided put Thailand ahead in the 31st minute, turning and shooting despite being surrounded by three defenders, before Chinese striker Wu Lei missed a string of good chances. World Cup-winning coach Lippi brought veteran Xiao Zhi off the bench in the 64th minute and three minutes later he scored the equalizer, knocking the ball into the net on the rebound from his own saved header. Gao Lin quickly added a second from the penalty spot after he was fouled by Chalermpong Kerdkaew. China goalkeeper Yun Junling averted extra time when he

China’s forward Xiao Zhi (second right) scores his side’s equalizing goal during the AFC Asian Cup round of 16 soccer match against Thailand at the Hazza Bin Zayed stadium in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, Sunday, Jan. 20. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)

stopped Chalermpong’s fierce shot in stoppage time. “The players need to be more focused and keep their concentration during the game,” Lippi said of his team. “This is a psychological aspect of the game that needs improvement. It’s very important to have the same intensity, the same determination, right from the very first minute.”

Thailand, who got out of the Asian Cup group stage for the first time in 47 years, had caretaker coach Sirisak Yodyadthai in charge after firing Milovan Rajevac following their opening group-stage 4-1 loss to India. It’s the first time the Asian Cup has had a last-16 round after expanding to 24 teams.

30 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2019

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United States’ Serena Williams makes a forehand return to Romania’s Simona Halep during their fourth round match at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, Monday, Jan. 21. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Winks (right) celebrates with teammates after scoring his side’s winning goal during the English Premier League match against Fulham at Craven Cottage in London, Sunday, Jan. 20. (AP Photo/ Frank Augstein)

Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas serves to Spain’s Roberto Bautista Agut during their quarterfinal match at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, Tuesday, Jan. 22. (AP Photo/Andy Brownbill)

VOL. XXVII No. 4

Manny Pacquiao (right) throws a right to Adrien Broner in their WBA welterweight title boxing match Saturday, Jan. 19, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/ John Locher)

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Brandin Cooks prepares to make a catch ahead of New Orleans Saints cornerback P.J. Williams during the first half of the NFL football NFC championship game, Sunday, Jan. 20, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Austria’s Vincent Kriechmayr takes a jump on his way to winning the alpine ski men’s World Cup downhill in Wengen, Switzerland, Saturday, Jan. 19. (AP Photo/Gabriele Facciotti)

Los Angeles Lakers’ JaVale McGee (top) works for a rebound against Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Jan. 21, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/ Marcio Jose Sanchez)

VOL. XXVII No. 4

PATTAYA MAIL

Al-Attiyah wins 3rd Dakar Rally title; Price wins bike class Lima, Peru (AP) — Nasser Al-Attiyah won his third Dakar Rally crown while Toby Price won his second motorbike title in a race which featured one last twist last week. Price came to the 10th and last stage on Thursday after racing almost 5,200 kilometers with only one minute’s lead over Pablo Quintanilla. Then just 10 kilometers into the dune-heavy, 112-kilometer course from Pisco to Lima, Quintanilla fell off his bike and injured his foot. The chances of winning a first Dakar evaporated instantly, but the Chilean got back on his Husqvarna to try and save a podium place. He lost 19 minutes, though, and dropped to fourth overall. Al-Attiyah could sit back and play it safe thanks to a 51-minute lead overall. He let others race for the stage win, which went to Carlos Sainz, last year’s champion. Al-Attiyah rolled in nine

Driver Nasser Al-Attiyah, of Qatar (right) and co-driver Matthieu Baumel, of France (left) celebrate with Toyota team manager Glyn Hall after winning the Dakar Rally at the arrival of the last stage in Pisco, Peru, Thursday, Jan. 17. (AP Photo/Ricardo Mazalan)

minutes later in his Toyota, and won the Dakar by 46 minutes from Nani Roma, the 2014 champion. Runner-up to Sainz last year, Al-Attiyah regained the title he earned in 2011 and 2015, when the Qatari also won with French codriver Mathieu Baumel.

Toby Price of Australia rides his KTM motorbike during the second stage of the Dakar Rally between Pisco and San Juan de Marcona, Peru, Tuesday, Jan. 8. (AP Photo/Ricardo Mazalan)

“It’s fantastic, no mistakes,” Al-Attiyah said. “The good thing was that from day three we were leading and we built on our time every day until we came to the last day with a big, big lead. We felt that a 100 percent Peru rally, with no other country, there would be a lot of sand dunes, so we could do what we know we’re good at.” Roma, who won two motorbike titles before switching to four wheels in 2005, was second after a busier-thanusual year of rallying to rebound from crashing out early in the Dakar last year. Sebastien Loeb, who was in title contention until electrical problems on Monday, was third at his fourth Dakar. After Quintanilla crashed, Price won the last stage, his first of this Dakar. Price broke the scaphoid bone in his right wrist weeks before the Dakar.

The Australian thought he would endure two stages then pull out, but support and luck kept him going. The 2016 champion went for broke on Tuesday to take the overall lead. “The pain and torture has been worth it,” Price said. “(The pain) feels like there are about five people driving a knife in my wrist. It’s not very comfortable, it’s not very enjoyable. “It’s very crazy to sit here and say that we won the Dakar Rally with no stage victories until today. It’s really crazy. I’m over the moon.” Defending champion Matthias Walkner, only six minutes behind overall, threatened early but faded on the stage and arrived two minutes behind in third. Walkner was second overall, nine minutes behind, and Sam Sunderland was third, 13 minutes down.

Malaysia’s 2018 auto sales rebounded, flat growth seen Kuala Lumpur (AP) — New vehicle sales in Malaysia rebounded last year after two straight years of contraction, thanks to a three-month tax holiday, but growth is likely to remain flat this year amid uncertainties over government policies, an automotive group said. The Malaysian Automotive Association said 598,714 vehicles were sold last year, up 3.8 percent from 2017. It said this was largely due to an upsurge in demand from June to August 2018 after vehicle prices dropped when a new government that took power in May’s general election scrapped an unpopular consumption tax. Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad’s government declared a three-month tax holiday before reintroducing a

A woman walks toward her car in a parking lot in Putrajaya, Malaysia, Wednesday, Jan. 16. (AP Photo/ Yam G-Jun)

sales and services tax in September. Malaysia is the third largest auto market in Southeast Asia after Indonesia and Thailand. Association president Aishah Ahmad said sales in 2019 are projected to rise by

0.2 percent amid economic uncertainties, a weak ringgit and inflationary pressure. She said car prices have also edged up slightly under the new tax regime. Changes under the new government have also caused a delay in the approval for

pricing of new models. Plans to revise the national auto planning and develop a new “national” model also have raised uncertainties over future policies. “We foresee 2019 will be another very challenging year,” she said. National carmaker Proton, privatized in 2012 and partly controlled by China’s Geely Holding Group Co. Ltd., has only a 10.8 percent market share — a far cry from the two-thirds share it held during its heyday. Proton, founded by Mahathir in 1983, suffered after tariffs that had been protecting from foreign competition were lifted. Proton has launched a SUV based on Geely’s popular Boyue vehicle that it hopes will boost sales and revitalize its stale brand.

FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2019 31

Ford revamps Explorer SUV for 1st time since 2011 model year

Ford Motor Co., President, Global Markets Jim Farley (left) and President and CEO Jim Hackett stand next to the redesigned 2020 Ford Explorer during its unveiling, Wednesday, Jan. 9, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Detroit (AP) — Ford’s aging Explorer big SUV is getting a major revamp as it faces growing competition in the market for family haulers with three rows of seats. The company unveiled the new version earlier this month at Ford Field, home of the NFL’s Detroit Lions. The Explorer, last reworked for the 2011 model year, gets a top-to-bottom update that includes a switch from frontto rear-wheel-drive, as well as updated engines and transmissions, some nice standard safety features and even high-performance and gas-electric hybrid versions. The switch to rear drive will boost towing capacity and offroad performance, Ford says. Sales of the venerable Explorer had held up well but dropped 3.5 percent last year to just under 262,000. The SUV’s appearance doesn’t change much, but the roof line does slope more from front to back. Customers have told engineers that hip space in the front seats seemed cramped, and it was

hard to get into the third row of seats. Ford took care of both problems with more interior space and second-row seats that tip and slide forward with the touch of a button. Engineers say the new version is more efficient because it’s 200 pounds lighter than the old model due to more use of aluminum and high-strength steel. The base engine is an updated turbocharged 2.3-liter fourcylinder with 300 horsepower. There’s also a 365 horsepower 3-liter turbocharged V6. And for the first time in six years, Ford is offering a gas-electric hybrid SUV with the new Explorer. Standard on all models is Ford’s suite of advanced safety features that includes automatic emergency braking, blind spot detectors and lane keeping. The base price in the U.S. domestic market will rise $400 from the current $32,365 excluding shipping. Fuel economy wasn’t announced. The Chicagobuilt Explorer goes on sale in the summer.

Dr. Iain is currently on leave. The weekly car quizzes are postponed until he returns.

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ASEAN ministers rock no boats in Myanmar, South China Sea Chiang Mai, Thailand (AP) - Foreign ministers of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations last week hewed to the group’s practice of reaching the least provocative consensus possible in discussions of such divisive issues as Myanmar’s Rohingya crisis and China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea. A two-day Foreign Ministers’ Retreat was the regional group’s first meeting since Thailand took over its annual chairmanship. The host’s summary of the meeting emphasized the humanitarian role ASEAN members could play in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, where more than 700,000 members of the Muslim Rohingya minority fled from a brutal government

counterinsurgency campaign. Standard ASEAN practice is to avoid criticizing what are considered each country’s domestic affairs. But Myanmar’s Rohingya crisis is also a regional problem, because of the hundreds of thousands of refugees it has generated, justifying discussion by the group. ASEAN has plans to send a team to Rakhine, but Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai at a closing news conference said its mission had been delayed because of a stalemate on the ground. “Once things are cleared, then you will be seeing more visibly the presence of the collective ASEAN efforts in Myanmar and Rakhine State,” he said.

Thai school children in traditional tribal attire sit on cardboard chairs during a symbolic ceremony to receive cardboard school chairs made of recycled paper following the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ retreat in Chiang Mai. (AP Photo/Gemunu Amarasinghe)

Foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) join hands for a group photo during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ retreat in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Friday, Jan. 18, 2019. They are from left to right, Laos’ Saleumxay Kommasith, Myanmar’s Kyaw Tin, Malaysia’s Saifuddin Abdullah, Philippines Foreign Affaires Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., Singapore’s Vivian Balakrishnan, Thailand’s Don Pramudwinai, Vietnam’s Ph m Binh Minh, Brunei Second Minister of Foreign Affaires and Trade Erywan Yusof, Cambodia’s Prak Sokhon, Indonesia’s Retno Marsudi and ASEAN Secretary-General Dato Lim Jock Hoi. (AP Photo/Gemunu Amarasinghe)

Don said the group suggested that Myanmar should “address the root causes of the conflict” and create “a conducive environment” so that affected communities can rebuild their lives. Myanmar has previously acknowledged similar suggestions but done little to act on them. ASEAN offered to act as a coordinator with U.N. agencies on the planned future repatriation of the Rohingya

currently sheltering at camps in Bangladesh, Don said. Many Rohingya are reluctant to return without more guarantees of safety and the prospect of obtaining citizenship, which is generally denied to them. Myanmar was represented at the meeting by Minister for International Cooperation Kyaw Tin. Its foreign minister is Aung San Suu Kyi, but she is also the country’s executive leader

and often delegates foreign minister duties to others. The ministers also claimed progress on concluding a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, long touted as a way of avoiding volatile confrontations in the disputed waters. Several ASEAN countries, especially Vietnam and the Philippines, have the territorial interests directly threatened by Chinese claims in the sea, while others, either nervous about offending

their giant neighbor to the north or maintaining vital economic ties with Beijing, are less concerned. The meeting statement gave a nod to China’s critics by saying the ministers “took note of some concerns on the land reclamations and activities in the area.” By extending the size of reefs and islands and establishing military and civilian facilities on them, Beijing strengthens its claims to the adjacent waters.

Iceland’s Northern Lights: Beautiful sight, risky drives Egill Bjarnason Akureyri, Iceland (AP) Police in Iceland have a warning for visitors: Beware our roads in the winter. Spending a clear winter night under an Arctic sky lit up by spectacular streaks of color from the Northern Lights is an often-cited “bucket-list” experience among the reasons more people are visiting Iceland, especially its northern region. The remote region on the edge of the Arctic Circle is one of the best places in the world to spot the colorful phenomenon. But police say many foreign visitors lack the experience and expertise to handle Iceland’s wintry road conditions. They are increasingly worried about visitors scanning the sky for the Northern Lights and not looking at the road, which may be icy, twisty or narrow - or all three conditions at once. “The weather in Iceland changes every five minutes, so to speak, and road conditions change accordingly,” said Superintendent Johannes Sigfusson of the Akureyri Police Department, the largest in the northern region. “In a matter of minutes, a dry road can turn icy and slippery. “The risk is compounded in the middle of the night, when an inexperienced driver

In this March 1, 2017 file photo, the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, appear in the sky over Bifrost, Western Iceland. (AP Photo/Rene Rossignaud, File)

is deprived of sleep and with one eye on the sky.” Of the 18 people who died in traffic crashes in Iceland in 2018, half of them were foreigners, continuing a trend that started the year before, when more foreigners than residents died for the first time on this volcanic island in the North Atlantic. The aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, occur when a magnetic solar wind slams into the Earth’s magnetic field and causes atoms in the upper atmosphere to glow. The lights appear quite suddenly and the intensity varies - the most amazing are bright green with streaks of purple and yellow. Northern Lights sightings depend on a mix of luck and effort. The Icelandic Met

Office operates a 9-scale Northern Lights forecast every day, based on solar winds in the past three days, that pinpoints the best spots in the country each night to try to see the lights. But traveling away from city lights is most often necessary, and that has led some drivers to take hazardous mountain roads. Police say they have encountered sleep-deprived drivers cruising into the night, as well as vehicles driving without lights on to prevent light pollution. Police say some accidents even happen on main roads, when tourists hit the brakes quickly because of a sudden Northern Lights sighting and then get hit from behind. It doesn’t help that, in Icelandic winters, the sun in

Akureyri can rise as late as 11:39 a.m. and set as early as 2:43 p.m., meaning that tourists are spending most of their day driving in the dark. Authorities note that the capital, Reykjavik, Akureyri and other areas have tourism companies that offer nightly Northern Lights bus tours near-daily in the winter so tourists can leave the driving to professionals. Iceland’s road infrastructure also lags behind its boom in international tourism. The national Road No. 1, which runs for 1,337 kilometers (830 miles) as it connects coastal towns and villages on this volcanic island of 350,000 people, still has narrow lanes and many

one-lane bridges. Last month, an SUV carrying seven British tourists plunged off a one-lane bridge on Road No. 1 in southern Iceland, killing three people and critically injuring the others. In the winter, tourists from warm countries - who may never have driven in snow and ice - have been more likely to get into accidents, according to the Icelandic Transport Authority. “Driving on Icelandic winter roads it is tough. Definitely,” said Jeremy Tan, a financier from Singapore who was out driving his rental car half way around Iceland. “Dark roads and strong winds are something that I am not used to.”

Police in Iceland say sleep-deprived tourists are dividing their attentions between the road and the sky, and often underestimate the challenging conditions posed by Iceland’s twisty, narrow, often-icy roads in the winter. (AP Photo/Rene Rossignaud, file)

He was parked at Godafoss, a landmark waterfall in northern Iceland, hoping that the clouds might pull the curtains on a winter Northern Lights show. The Icelandic Met Office’s Northern Lights forecast for that night listed their strength as “moderate” but Tan was prepared to wait, with warm cloths and snacks for the night. But midnight passed without any signs of green, purple or yellow dancing lights above the horizon. The accuracy of aurora forecasting could soon improve, however. The Chinese Polar Research Institute is opening Iceland’s first-ever aurora research station in a remote valley about a half-hour drive from the northern town of Akureyri. The futuristic three-storey building, set to go into operation later this year, is part of China’s broad ambitions in the Arctic. Gunnlaugur Bjornsson, astrophysicist at the University of Iceland, is among the local scientists involved in project. Speaking to The Associated Press, he said much was still unknown about the Northern Lights and the vast electromagnetic system that unleashes them. “Weather prediction is difficult. Aurora prediction is even more so,” he said. “We just have to wait and see, like with the earthquakes.”

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E-mail: comhaps@pattayamail.com

Events The next meeting of Pattaya City Expats Club (PCEC) will be held on Sunday, January 27. The PCEC program varies, but usually involves a guest speaker on a topic of interest to Expats. The program starts at 10:30 am with a buffet breakfast available from 9:00 to 11:00 am on the 4th floor of the Holiday Inn’s Executive Tower located behind the Holiday Inn’s Bay Tower on Beach Road. Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa will host a ‘Wedding Showcase’ on Saturday 26th – Sunday 27th January 2019. A must visit for all brides and grooms to be, the event will highlight the resort’s excellent wedding facilities, the expertise of the dedicated wedding team, fantastic offers, wedding setups, food & beverage pop-ups, entertainment and more from 10 am until 8 pm. The top spenders over the weekend will win a chance to get an exclusive 2-night stay prize in a luxurious villa at Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa. No booking is required and attendance is free. For details, contact the wedding team at sales@ renaissancepattaya.com. The Pattaya BULLY EXPO 2019 will take place at the Eastern National Sports Center, Soi Chaiyapruek 2 on Saturday 26th January. Dog lovers are invited to come and enjoy the top dog show and American Bully breed canine contest in Asia. The event starts at 9.45am. For more details call 080 967 1314.

Fax: 038-427596

A Joint Chambers Eastern Seaboard networking evening will be held at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa on Friday, February 15 from 6.00 p.m. – 9 p.m. (last drinks at 8.30 p.m.). Entrance cost is THB 500 on the door for members and THB 1,000 for non-members. Admission includes free-flow drinks and finger food. The 2019 Burapha Bike Week will take place from Feb. 14-16 at the National Indoor Stadium on Chaiyapruek 2 Road in Pattaya. During the festival, live concerts will take place throughout the day and evening; there will be many food stalls, fireworks, tattoo displays, dancers, motorcycle parades, stunt shows and more. For updates and more information, check Burapha Bike Week Pattaya on Facebook. The 2019 Honda LPGA Thailand golf championship will take place at Siam Country Club Old Course in Pattaya from February 21-24. The tournament will showcase 60 of world’s best LPGA players and 10 rising stars in women’s golf from all ages to win the prize purse of $1.6 million. Spectators will also find opportunity to relax and enjoy the “Festival Village” with exhibitors, retail outlets, interactive activities and local food stalls. For ticket information and further details, visit website: https:/ /hondalpgathailand.com. The Eastern Seaboard Businessmen’s Dinner is a monthly event taking place at the Mantra Restaurant at the Amari Pattaya Resort on

Savory scrambled egg Scrambled egg is one of the best known breakfasts. “Go to work on an egg” was the advertising slogan for the Egg Marketing Board many years ago, and many people did and still do. However, sometimes you need to just add a little something more to the humble egg, and this is one of the best ‘up-market’ scrambled eggs you can make for tomorrow’s breakfast.

Ingredients Eggs Milk Onion, chopped Ham, thinly sliced Mushroom, chopped Salt Ground black pepper

Serves 4 8 ½ cup ½ 1 slice ½ cup 1 tspns 2 tspns

Cooking Method In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk using a fork. Whisk in the salt and pepper. The more you beat, the fluffier the scrambled eggs will be. Heat a small non-stick pan with some butter over medium heat. Quickly fry a handful of finely chopped onion pieces in the butter with the mushrooms and ham. Pour the scrambled egg mixture into the pan, and cook. Stir, scrape, and cut up the eggs while cooking until no liquid remains, and serve on hot buttered toast!

the last Thursday of the month. It brings together business leaders from various backgrounds including Automotive, Aerospace, Real Estate, Architecture, FMCG, Electronics, White Goods, Logistics, Recruitment, Legal, Consulting, and others in a relaxed atmosphere. If you are interested in attending please contact Anuttra.Sukruen@tinfish.co.th. 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 Feb. 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 Experience Chinese culture and discover Chinese cuisines with a breathtaking view over the Gulf of Thailand at Royal Cliff Beach Hotel’s famous Chinese New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner on February 4. For more information or to book a table call 038 250 421 ext 2037 or email: gro-main@ royalcliff.com. Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Pattana Golf Club. Indulge in a 3 course set menu on a candlelit terrace while watching a classic lover’s film. From 6 pm, February 14 at Persimmon restaurant, Pattana Golf Club & Resort. Price: Only 1,400 Baht/ couple (the first 5 couples who book will get one night accommodation free). Book now at 038 318 999 ext. 11230 or email: restaurant@ pattana.co.th. Royal Varuna Yacht Club will hold an early Chinese New Year celebration on Saturday, February 2 starting at 6.30pm. Tickets are priced at Adults 650 THB, Teens (age 13-17) 500 THB, Kids (age 12 and under) 300 THB and Kids (under 3) Free and include a BBQ Chinese food buffet and entertainment from Chinese lion dancers. To book tickets, call 038 250 116 or email to events@varuna.org.

Intercontinental Pattaya Resort invites you to a Chinese New Year Buffet Dinner on Tuesday, February 5 from 6:00pm – 10:00pm. The resident chefs have prepared special gourmet dishes for the celebration. Highlights include suckling pig, Hong Kong-style roasted duck, dim sum, BBQ specialties, seafood on ice, and assorted Chinese traditional desserts. During your gourmet feast, the traditional Lion Dance “Wushi” will be performed to bring good luck and great fortune in the coming year. THB 1,680++ per person. For more information, call 038 259 888 or email to icpattaya@ihg.com. Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Bar at Hilton Pattaya invites you to savor a special dish of the month ‘Seared Red Snapper with Peanut and Tamarind Sauce’ throughout January. Seared red snapper is served with peanut and tamarind sauce, turmeric foam sauce, dill foam sauce and homemade rice noodles and salad at THB 950 net. Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Bar is located on level 34 of the hotel and open from 6pm – 11pm. For more information or reservations, call 038 253 000 or visit pattaya.hilton.com.

Seared red snapper at Horizon Lounge.

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. Saturday Night Buffet is back at AVANI Pattaya Resort & Spa. Experience regional favourites galore, street dishes an artisan desserts, as you relax with classical Thai dance and live music. Every Saturday night at Sala Rim Nam Restaurant from 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm. Priced at THB 599++ per

person. Kids under 5 eat free. For more information and reservations, call 038 412 120 Big Fish restaurant at Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya enhances its seafood buffet with more premium catches and live music entertainment. The restaurant offers a nightly Seafood BBQ Buffet at only THB 777 net or THB 1,099 net with free-flow wine. Enjoy highquality, premium seafood cuisine as you listen to acoustic guitar and piano music from prominent local artists. Seafood BBQ Buffet at Big Fish is available every night from 6:00 p.m. to 10 p.m. For reservations call 038 930 600 or email fbsec@siamatpattaya.com. Centara Pattaya Hotel and Centara Nova Hotel & Spa Pattaya are currently offering festive hampers priced from THB 359 net – THB 2,299 net while stocks last. To order, call 038 295 999 ext 2 or Email: restaurantmgrcpy @chr.co.th. After 14 years as the Landlord of an Irish Pub, the name Kim Fletcher has not disappeared. Kim may have gone from Jamesons, but his wife Goy has ensured that the name Fletcher has not died by opening Fletchers’ Folly, a boutique pub on the Dark Side. Kim is trying to get used to being retired, but the new ‘pensioner’ loves regaling the drinkers with stories from his lifetime in pubs, punctuated with his characteristic laugh. Fletchers’ Folly is on Siam Country Club Road, opposite Maxxis tyres and 300 meters before the “Chicken Crossroads”.

Food and drinks at very reasonable prices. Pizza and Pasta All You Can Eat at Mövenpick Siam Hotel Na Jomtien: Twist Restaurant features Italian classics like creamy Carbonara or meaty Bolognese with a choice of pasta, or the delicious Prosciutto Pizza with your choice of regular or whole wheat dough. The menu also includes original Thai-fusion pizzas and pasta such as the Tom Yam pizza with chili paste, prawn, squid and Thai herbs or the tasty Green Curry Pasta. Available all day from Sunday – Thursday at only THB 500 per person, with a glass of soft drink. For more information or reservation, call 033 078 888. 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 Resort is located on North Pattaya Road, 200 meters from the Dolphin roundabout and 200 meters before Tesco Lotus. Continued on page 35

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VOL. XXVII No. 4

Personal Taste?

you the bother and deliver it to your front door. Or perhaps even your back door if you ask them nicely.

Castillo del Moro Airén-Sauvignon Blanc 2016 (white), Spain (Bt. 449 @ Wine Connection) Master wine-maker John Quarisa.

You’ve probably heard people say that wine is a matter of personal taste. Well yes, of course it is. But why single out wine? Apart from medicine, everything that we eat and drink is nearly always a matter of personal taste. It goes further of course because our personal taste is reflected in the books we read, the movies we watch and even the car we drive. At a wine tasting a few months ago, a friend of mine was puzzled when I described a particular Australian wine as “good” but added that I didn’t enjoy it very much. This was because I found the insistent aroma a bit over-powering, the tannins too obtrusive and the body unduly heavy. It was not to my taste but a perfectly good Australian commercial wine made to please the locals. It’s safe to say that the quality of a wine and personal taste are two separate things. Wine doesn’t occur naturally in nature, it requires human assistance to make it out of grape must. Wine-making is an exacting process and things can and do go wrong. I have tasted many excellent wines but I have also a few which were

downright bad. They were poorly made, in the same way that you sometimes see poorly-cut suits or encounter poorly-cooked food. Poorlydesigned kitchen appliances also spring to mind. There are plenty of such wines on local supermarket shelves. But as my father used to say, “No names, no pack-drill.” One way to reduce the chance of acquiring a dud bottle is to buy from wine specialists. There are several excellent wine companies in Thailand that offer online purchase. Both the wines this week are supplied by Wine Connection which has outlets in Pattaya as an online ordering facility. If you can’t be bothered trekking into town, they’ll save

Shiraz grapes.

South of the ancient Spanish city of Toledo lies the largest plain on the Iberian Peninsula. La Mancha is a

may also notice that fresh grassy smell that tends to come with Sauvignon Blanc. The wine is supple on the palate yet has a pleasing tang of apple-like acidity. It doesn’t have the toe-curling bitterness of some Sauvignons because the Airén in the blend has successfully softened Sauvignon’s characteristic bite. This is a light and refreshing wine, ample fruit on the

Eastern Australia, it really looks inviting in the glass; a Shiraz (SHEE-raz) of rich, intense crimson with hints of purple and a slightly oily appearance. The aroma is quite complex, which is always the sign of a quality wine. You’ll find that rich black cherries, spices and fresh pepper come through first. If you concentrate you might pick up chocolate and spices. I thought I could detect a faint whiff of licorice too. To persuade it to reveal its aromatic secrets, pour the wine into a decanter or wine jug and let it rest for twenty minutes or so. I was expecting this to taste like a turbo-charged Shiraz which would hit the

palette like a torpedo. To my surprise and delight, it has a beguiling gentle character. The wine is full-bodied and dry of course, but has a soft, almost silky mouth-feel and a satisfying smooth foundation of tannin with beautifully balanced fruit flavours. There’s a lovely long, soft, dry cherry finish too. Made by master winemaker John Quarisa this award-winning Shiraz has won gold medals in wine competitions in both China and New Zealand. It’s had excellent press reviews too. If you like a big, bold Aussie Shiraz with a soft touch, give this a try especially if there’s grilled beef on the menu. You will not be disappointed.

Airen-grape.

massive, wind-swept place over 1,500 feet above sea level and a potent symbol of Spanish culture with its vineyards, sunflowers, mushrooms, olive groves and windmills. This is the land of Don Quixote, the dotty hero created by the sixteenth century Spanish novelist, Miguel de Cervantes. In parts of this hot and arid plain, the Airén grape thrives. The Airén (iREHN) has been around since the fifteenth century and today it’s the most-plated white grape in the world. This wine is pale gold with an attractive, delicate floral aroma of pineapple and gooseberry up front with hints of fresh orange. You

palate and an attractive lingering finish with delicate hints of grapefruit. It’s dry, but not in the dinosaur bones class for there’s just a hint of sweetness to the taste. In many ways, it’s a real charmer – an unassuming crisp wine that is a delight to drink. At only 12% ABV, it would make a lovely apéritif or a good partner for seafood and salads.

30 Mile Shiraz 2016 (red), Australia (Bt. 690 @ Wine Connection) According to the company website, this is evidently one of the Wine Connection’s best sellers. From South

La Mancha windmills.

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E-mail: comhaps@pattayamail.com From page 33 Yupin’s Restaurant in Jomtien Complex offers some fabulous culinary options including Fines De Claires Oysters arriving fresh ‘Par Avion’ from Normandy in France. Served on ice with lemon and on request a spicy Thai sauce for dipping. An amazing experience. Only 595 baht per six oysters. Yupins is also taking bookings for Christmas dinner at 995 baht per person. For more information or reservations, call 038 250394 or visit website: www. yupins.com. Linda’s Restaurant is large with seating for 200 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. 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, street-side parking. Email linda@lindasrestaurant.com . GPS 12.901655 N 100.869. Yamato Restaurant located on Soi Yamato has been around for more than 39 years and the soi was named after its oldest tenant. 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.

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 on-street parking in the soi. Hours 11 a.m. until 11 p.m., seven days.

Spa & Hotel Promotions Aromatherapy Massage promotion at Ayatana Spa, Pattana Golf Club & Resort: 90 min massage only 1,800 baht, get free 30 min body scrub worth 500 baht or 100 baht discount. This promotion is valid from Jan 1, till the end of Feb 2019. For bookings, call 038 318 999 ext. 11143 Eforea spa at Hilton Pattaya introduces a 120minute spa package ‘Total Bliss’ for your ultimate relaxation and facial skin nourishment: Priced at THB 4,300 net per person and THB 8,000 per couple and available until January 31, 2019. For more information and reservations, call 038253-000. AVANI Spa offers a spa buffet package: 90-minute AVANI signature touch massage and International Buffet Dinner at Garden Cafe for one at only THB 2,700 net. Advance reservations required, contact AVANI Spa at Tel. 038 412 120.

Fax: 038-427596

Entertainment Dicey Reilly’s Pattaya will host a Gentleman’s Night on Saturday 26 January from 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm. Unlimited Gentleman Jack with live barbeque, tasty snacks and quality live trio band. Tickets are priced at THB 1,250 net per person (early booking, before 20 January at only THB 1,000 net). Call 038 411 755. Despacito Fridays at Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya –Start off the weekend with a sensual step Latin night at the Roof Sky Bar, every Friday from 4pm – 10pm with DJ Ro-Bi-El Gordo and DJ Rocky, plus zumba classes. Free admission, ladies enjoy a free drink until 5pm. For more information, call 038 930 600. 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 Rotary Club of JomtienPattaya (English) meets every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at Royal Cliff Grand Hotel, Pattaya City. Fellowship begins at 18.30 hrs and Dinner meeting at 19.00 hrs. President Vutikorn Kamolchote Email: <vutikornk@hotmail.com> Rotary Club Eastern Seaboard (English) meets at the Siam Bayshore Hotel, 17.30 hrs for 18.00 hrs on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month, followed by dinner (Fellowship) President Brian Songhurst Email: <bjs2904@yahoo.com> Rotary Club Phönix Pattaya (German) meets every Tuesday at the Holiday Inn Pattaya at 19.00 hrs. President Peter Schlegel Email: info@rotary-phoenixpattaya.org. Le Rotary Pattaya Marina, seul Rotary Francophone d’Asie, vous accueille les premier et troisième vendredis de chaque mois, début des réunions 19h, à l’hôtel Pullman G Pattaya Wongamat - 445/3 Moo 5 – Soi 16 – Pattaya Naklua Road. Venez agir avec le Rotary pour changer des vies. Pierre Yves Eraud Président 2018-2019 Email: < info@ rotarypattayamarina.org. Rotary Club of Pattaya (Thai-English) meets at the First Pacific Hotel, Central Road on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month. Meetings begin at 19.00 hrs. President Stephen Devereux Email: < stevecarlow@gmail.com> The Thai Stamp Alliance is a new internet and social media group created to share information, including posts of events like Exhibitions and Auctions. If you live on

the Eastern Seaboard of Thailand and have an interest, email thaistampalliance @gmail.com. or find us on Facebook. 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 at Sinthavee Park Condo, 2/ 1 Moo 5, in Ban Chang. If you are interested, please contact Membership Chairman Dan Morgan at <ban changvfw12146membership@ 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 08-456-31671. 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, nonjudgmental 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.

36 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 4

La Familia wins 2019 Thai Polo Open in 7 goal thriller

Malaysia’s La Familia team members celebrate with the trophy after winning the 2019 Thai Polo Open championship.

The 2019 Thai Polo Open, one of the most important polo competitions in Asia, reached its climax last Saturday, January 19. The prestigious tournament, held at Thai Polo & Equestrian Club in Pattaya, saw four international teams compete for the title and the tournament also marked the beginning of the Royal Malaysian Polo Association International League 2019, which continues in Malaysia in August, with the three remaining tournaments being the Royal Selangor Polo Club Open, el RMPA Classic and the RMPA International League Final. The Thai Polo Open final formed part of a spectacular day of sport and the weather in Pattaya made the event even more enjoyable. Guests began arriving around noon

and were invited to a delicious lunch, boasting a variety of local and international dishes. The highlight of the day was to be the final contest between Malaysia’s La Familia and home team Thai Polo, but there were many activities organized prior to the big match.

Violette Gauthier’s selfmade creation won her the day’s ‘Best Hat’ award.

Around 1:30pm the Wat Suthi Wararam Marching Band entertained guests with delightful music before an exciting show jumping competition displayed the best of the discipline. Charity kiosks, merchandise and refreshment stalls, raffles, children’s games, haircuts, and pony rides made it a day for all the family to enjoy. The final match was very competitive right from the start of the first chukka. Both teams fought tooth and nail to gain possession but Thai Polo took the lead through Facundo Fernández Llorente, only for Mohamed Moiz to tie the match for La Familia in the second chukka, making it 1-1 at half time. In the third period, Carlos Pando and Matías Vial both scored, meaning that the match was

Colorfully-attired guests enjoy the atmosphere.

tied going into the fourth and final chukka. The last period was as dramatic and intense as ever. Shaik Reismann scored for La Familia, but when it seemed like everything was done and dusted, and that the trophy would fly back to Malaysia, Facundo Fernández Llorente broke away, scoring to tie the match once again. This forced the final into extra time. Thai Polo had the chance at glory but Llorente missed from a 60-yard penalty and the visitors capitalized, earning a spot penalty of their own which was converted by Chilean player Matias Vial to give Familia a 4 to 3 victory and the coveted title. The third place match was earlier won by 22BR from Hong Kong over AXUS from China. Another annual feature of the event is to give 2 category awards to honorable guests. The awards this year went to Violette Gauthier for winning the “Best Hat” category and Miss Susolossa Jaojansakoon for the “Best Dress”. The event was brought to a fitting close with a vibrant display of fireworks that astounded the guests to be followed by the prize giving ceremony of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s Cup and gala dinner party. This year’s tournament marked the 15th annual event organized by Dr. Harald Link, President of B.Grimm Group and President of the Thailand Equestrian Federation. Funds raised will be donated to Chitralada Vocational School.

Thailand’s national showjumping team gave a fine display of their equestrian skills.

Spectators enjoy a thrilling final match between Thai Polo and La Familia.

The Wat Suthi Wararam Marching Band provided a musical prelude to the polo action.

Thai Polo and La Familia battle for possession in the thrilling final.

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