Pattaya Mail - FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 - JANUARY 9, 2020 (Vol. XXVII No. 42)

Established in 1993

VOL.XXVII No. 42

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27 - JANUARY 9, 2019

30 BAHT

Happy New Year

This photo taken during the International Fireworks Festival last month began Pattaya’s end of the year activities on our way to 2020. This year, the biggest names in Thai pop music will rock in the New Year Dec. 29-31 at Bali Hai pier for the Pattaya Countdown: Universe of Entertainment. Hotels and entertainment venues will also be holding exciting events as festivities continue through to the wee hours of January 1.

Whatever you choose to do, have a great New Year’s Eve and as always, please use extreme care when driving and never drive drunk. From all of us in the Pattaya Mail family, we wish you a happy, healthy, safe and prosperous New Year.

2 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Thai pop stars to rock in 2020 Cruise ship makes at Pattaya Countdown unplanned stop in Pattaya PCPR

Boonlua Chatree Almost 150 cruise ship passengers made an unplanned stop in Pattaya after strong winds forced the vessel to drop anchor off Koh Larn.

The World, a cruise ship operated by Bangkok-based S5 Asia Co., was on a voyage from Singapore to Hua Hin via Koh Samui and Koh Kood.

On Dec. 6, the ship carrying 147 tourists and 293 crewmembers sailed through Pattaya Bay, but strong winds prompted the captain to shelter the vessel by dropping anchor in deep water behind Koh Larn.

Local fisherman made up wild stories and spread false rumors that the ship was damaged when it hit rocks.

S5 Asia, the Marine Department and Pattaya City Hall

The World, a cruise ship operated by Bangkokbased S5 Asia Co., was on a voyage from Singapore to Hua Hin via Koh Samui and Koh Kood made an unplanned stop in Pattaya after strong winds forced the vessel to drop anchor off Koh Larn.

all confirmed those rumors were false and the ship was undamaged.

Deputy Mayor Ronakit Ekasingh said S5 asked the city to allow it to send passengers to Bali Hai Pier for the night, which was not a problem as they’d already

cleared immigration before boarding.

With a Pattaya cruise terminal on the wish list for the government’s Eastern Economic Corridor plan, the ship’s visit could be a glimpse of the future for the city’s tourism industry, Ronakit said.

Ironic Jomtien turtle landmark spotlights Thailand plastic pollution problem PCPR Jomtien Beach has an ironic new landmark, a sculpture of two leatherback turtles made of the very plastic that has helped put them on the endangered-species list.

An initiative of city hall, the Tourism Authority of Thailand and oil giant Bangjak Corp. Plc., the plastic “mother and child” sculpture was molded out of plastic water and beverage bottles collected at Bangjak gas stations to raise awareness about plastic pollution of the seas. Thailand is the world’s fifth-biggest ocean-plastic polluter.

Deputy Mayor Manote Nongyai unveiled the sculpture at the Dongtan curve Dec. 18. It will remain on display through June.

The biggest names in Thai pop music will rock in 2020 for over three nights at Pattaya Countdown: Universe of Entertainment.

Headline acts at the Dec. 29-31 music festival at Bali Hai Pier include Klear, Sweet Mullet, Potato, Modern Dog and Big Ass. Shows run from 5 p.m. to midnight each day.

Black Head kicks off the festival Dec. 29, followed by Getsunova, Instinci, Urboy TJ, Moderndog and Big Ass. On Dec. 30, Ice Saranyu takes the stage first, followed by Bedroom Audio, Mild, The Toys, Jay Jettarin and Potato.

On New Year’s Eve, the curtain goes up with Jintara Poonlarb followed by Klear, Christina Aguilar, Sweet Mullet, Girls Universe, Boy Peacemaker, The Sun, and artists from MONO Music including Pete-Pera, Benz-Tung Pang-Nina-Angie-Mille,

The biggest names in Thai pop music will rock in 2020 for over three nights at Pattaya Countdown: Universe of Entertainment.

Gelato, Iceace, Chees, C-Cray, Xanephone and Plutonium.

The New Year’s Eve show

will be broadcast live 11:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on the Mono Channel 29.

3rd Road construction creates traffic chaos Jetsada Homklin

Officials unveil the ironic new landmark, a sculpture of two leatherback turtles made of the very plastic that has helped put them on the endangered-species list.

The leatherback is the largest of all living turtles and is the fourth-heaviest modern reptile behind three crocodilians. It can easily be differentiated from other sea turtles by its lack of a bony shell.

Instead, its carapace is covered by skin and oily flesh.

Worldwide, the leatherback is considered a “vulnerable” species and import/export of the animal or its parts is banned by global treaty.

However, the species’ western Pacific subgroup is classified as “critically endangered” with its population in Thailand and Malaysia nearly obliterated by human raids of egg nests, boat strikes and plastic pollution.

Pattaya motorists complained that poor planning and communication about ongoing roadwork on Third Road is creating traffic chaos.

Traffic came to a standstill for part of Dec. 13 as workers burying power and communications lines laid conduits across the busy thoroughfare.

The work is part of the Provincial Electricity Authority’s long-running project to submerge ugly wires across the city. The roadwork was previously announced, but frustrated motorists said it wasn’t communicated enough.

Drivers also groused about a lack of traffic police to redirect vehicles to detours.

Everyone stuck in gridlock moaned that city hall and the PEA need to do a better job of publicizing roadwork times and detours as well as manage traffic.

Poor planning and communication about ongoing roadwork on Third Road is creating traffic chaos.

Traffic came to a standstill for part of Dec. 13 as workers burying power and communications lines laid conduits across the busy thoroughfare.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

PATTAYA MAIL

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 3

Royal barge procession in celebration of HM the King’s coronation

HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn is transported on the royal palanquin during the Royal Procession outside the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Dec. 12, 2019. (AP Photo/Suganya Samnangjam)

Well-wishers hold the portraits of HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn and HM Queen Suthida outside the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Dec. 12, 2019. (AP Photo/Suganya Samnangjam)

Thousands of Thais and tourists flocked to the Chao Phraya River banks in Bangkok to witness an ancient ceremony of a royal barge procession on Thursday, December 12, marking the end of the coronation ceremony for HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

A total of 52 decorated barges were powered by 2,200 oarsmen selected from the Royal Thai Navy, who sang rhythmic songs as they paddled a distance of 3.4 kilometers (2.1 miles) between two key piers.

His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajarasudhabimalalakshana joined the royal barge procession along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok in the afternoon. The procession was part of nationwide celebrations of His Majesty the King’s coronation earlier this year.

At 3:30 p.m., Their Majesties the King and Queen proceeded from Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall in the Dusit Palace to Wa Sukri pier. Their Majesties was accompanied by Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati Krom Luang Ratchasarinee Siripatchara Maha Watchara Ratchathida, Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari

The royal barge carries HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn and HM Queen Suthida during the Royal Barge Procession on the Chao Phraya River Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Dec. 12, 2019. (Thailand’s Royal Public Relation Department via AP)

Nariratana Rajakanya and His Royal Highness Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti. The Anantanakkharat Royal Barge carried the image of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (Rama IX), Phra Buddha Patima Chaiwat.

Their Majesties the King and Queen and His Royal Highness Prince Dipangkorn traveled in the Suphannahong Royal Barge.

Their Royal Highnesses Princesses Bajrakitiyabha and Sirivannavari traveled in

the Anekkachatphuchong Royal Barge.

The procession traveled from Wa Sukri pier to Ratchaworadit pier. Their Majesties the King and Queen and other members of the royal family arrived at Ratchaworadit pier shortly after.

His Majesty the King joined the rab yai procession. His Majesty rode on the royal palanquin, Budtan Thong, from Rajakij Winitchai Pavilion to the Grand Palace. Her Majesty Queen Suthida and Her Royal Highness Princess

Bajrakitiyabha joined the parade as the King’s royal guards on both flanks of the royal palanquin.

The procession on foot passed along Maharaj and Na Phra Lan roads before arriving at Aphorn Phimok Prasat Pavilion in the Grand Palace, via the Wiset Chai Si Gate. The royal palanquin arrived at Aphorn Phimok Prasat Pavilion. His Majesty the King proceeded to the Ratcha Karanya Sapha Hall before returning to the Dusit Palace. (NNT & AP)

4 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

Grass fire threatens Sattahip homes Patcharapol Panrak Burning garbage is being blamed for a grass fire that scorched 10 rai in Sattahip.

Three fire trucks took 30 minutes to control the Dec. 18 blaze in an open field opposite a waste transport station on Sukhumvit Soi 41 in Khet Udomsak. No one was injured and no homes were damaged.

The fire started with someone burning garbage and winds whipped the flames

Pattaya police put on show of force after unflattering TV report Boonlua Chatree

Firefighters arrived in time as the brush roared too close to homes in Sattahip’s Rungroj Village 7.

and spread out, threatening homes at nearby Rungroj

Village 7. Residents were evacuated temporarily.

No one injured in car fire Boonlua Chatree

It was nervously exciting and ultimately expensive, but luckily no one was hurt when a Honda Accord caught fire outside the Pattaya Police Station.

A car fire excited passersby but injured no one in Pattaya.

A backhoe operator used a fire extinguisher to quell the flames coming from under the hood of a Honda Accord parked outside the Pattaya Police Station Dec. 9.

Two women and a fiveyear-old inside the car were helped to safety. None were hurt.

An initial inspection found that battery leads started the fire.

3 hurt as Vietnamese street hawkers brawl in central Pattaya Boonlua Chatree Three illegal Vietnamese vendors were injured when road rage boiled over into a knife fight in central Pattaya.

Congee sellers Tran Thanhcong, 37, and Luu Van Son, 36, suffered knife wounds to the arms and fruit vendor Tran Dinh Tang, 31, was slashed in the head in the Dec. 15 melee in front of shocked tourists on Soi Buakhao.

Paramedics provided first aid and all three victims fled the scene before police arrived, saying they would go to the hospital themselves.

Witness Pranee Nganrath, 35, said the congee vendors had confronted Luu and angry words were exchanged.

Then Luu pulled a knife and attacked the soup sellers.

One of the injured hawkers said the argument stemmed

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Pattaya police put on a show of force after a foreign media report implied that they weren’t doing their job in preventing scams against tourists.

Local Tourist Police Division chief Pol. Lt. Col. Piyapong Ensarn led 50 Tourist and Pattaya police, along with city hall regulatory enforcement officers, on a walk from the north to south ends of Beach Road Dec. 9 to show tourists they indeed were about.

Pattaya city and police officials got their noses bent out of shape after another overseas press television program highlighted fraud perpetrated against tourists and have been bending over

Pattaya police are putting on a show of force after a foreign media report allegeldy implied that they weren’t doing their job in preventing scams against tourists.

backward to respond.

Piyapong said more officers will be stationed around the Dusit Thani Hotel, Central Road and near Walking Street with all doing extra patrols through the new year.

He added that particular attention would be paid to the female and transvestite prostitutes working the beachfront and to Thai hooligans and pimps loitering and drinking on the beach.

Depressed woman attempts suicide Boonlua Chatree A woman with a history of depression was found hanging from a beam of her Pattaya home Friday.

The 35-year-old woman was breathing but unconscious after paramedics provided CPR at the home on Sukhumvit Soi 65. She was transported to Bangkok Hospital Pattaya.

A cousin who cut the woman down said the victim long had battled depression and loneliness, but relatives never imagined she’d tried to take her own life.

Foreigner drowns in Jomtien Beach Boonlua Chatree An elderly expat died when he apparently drowned off Jomtien Beach.

The remains of Ralf Reinke, 64, were pulled to shore at

Jomtien Soi 15 Dec. 14. His truck was found parked nearby.

Witness Sumit Kanchanapiboon, 32, said he saw Reinke go into the water to swim and, later on, saw what appeared to be a body

floating on the surface.

A passing boat brought the body to shore.

There were no signs of any animal bites, jellyfish stings or wounds, so it’s presumed he drowned.

Epidemic of snatch-and-run robberies continues Boonlua Chatree

Police arrive at Luu’s abandoned fruit cart after all three victims fled the scene, saying they would go to the hospital themselves.

over Luu driving his street cart dangerously near their soup carts. Luu left the fruit at the scene of the brawl.

Thai onlookers groused that the fight should never have taken place because

Vietnamese and other foreigners are not legally allowed to work as street vendors. Had immigration police been doing their jobs, the incident never would have happened, they complained.

A pair of motorcycle-riding thieves made off with the purse of an Uzbek tourist in South Pattaya.

The latest case in an epidemic of bag snatchings saw Vsola Vanhidova, 37, left without her handbag and the 3,000 baht inside following the snatch-and-run incident on Soi Yensabai Dec.10.

She said two youths wearing hooded jackets zoomed by and ripped her purse from her shoulder. They escaped withVsola Vanhidova lost her handbag and the 3,000 out being spotted by police. baht inside during a snatch-and-run incident on The theft is the fifth reported since Nov. 17.

Soi Yensabai.

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: 038 411 833 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 Kamolthep Malhotra e-mail: prince@pattayamail.com Newsroom Manager Editor Nopniwat Krailerg e-mail: editor@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, Jetsada Homklin (e-mail: newsdesk@pattayamail.com) © Copyright Pattaya Mail Publishing Co., Ltd.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

PATTAYA MAIL

Stronger pound, ruble hold promise for Pattaya tourism

Pattaya is hoping a recent resurgence in both the British pound and Russian ruble will boost tourism for the rest of high season.

Jetsada Homklin Pattaya’s tourism industry has been keeping a close eye on exchange rates, hoping a recent resurgence in both the British pound and Russian ruble will boost tourism for the rest of high season.

The pound – down 4.9 percent against the baht this year and 23.6 percent from five years ago – showed its first signs of life since the United Kingdom’s Brexit vote with the landslide victory of Conservative Prime Minister Boris Johnson this

month. Following the vote, the pound jumped from 38.7 baht to the sterling to 40.7.

In the past week, however, it has given back 2.6%, sitting at 38.3 baht on Dec. 21.

Still, with Britain’s parliament finally passing Johnson’s Brexit deal, currency traders around the world expected the pound to strengthen now that uncertainty over the U.K.’s exit from the European Union has disappeared.

A bet on a stronger ruble isn’t as certain. Russians have returned to Thailand in

strong numbers this year for the first time in five years, but the currency is still down 12 percent since 2014.

The ruble has risen against the baht by 2.5% in the past year, but is up only 1.9% in the past month, indicating its rally may be slowing.

Still, Pattaya is betting on more tourists arriving in town before Songkran despite making the city as unwelcoming as possible by ripping up the beachfront and major roads across town during the busiest time of year.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 5

6 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Chumsai cleans up for Father’s Day

Naklua Eat & Walk opens

Jirawat Plukjai, president of the Chumsai Community, joined pupils from Arunothai School for a cleanup project commemorating Father’s Day earlier in the month.

Old time teen favorite ‘Novu’ begins the entertainment on opening night.

Jetsada Homklin Central Pattaya residents and students cleaned up their neighborhood for Father’s Day. Jirawat Plukjai, president of the Chumsai Community,

joined pupils from Arunothai School at the Dec. 20 cleanup commemorating Father’s Day earlier in the month.

The group cleaned the community office and surrounding property, sweeping roads, mopping floors,

dusting and collecting garbage.

Kids also organized the community center library.

Organizers said the activity aims to show youths they have alternatives to drugs and mischief in their spare time.

Pattaya slaps Ban Sukhawadee with 2 more demolition orders for encroachment

PCPR The 11th Naklua Eat & Walk street market kicked off Saturday with seafood, music and lots of shopping.

Pattaya Mayor Sonthaya Kunplome opened the annual high-season “walking street” at Government Saving Bank, presenting certificates to vendors allowed to use the “Pattaya Brand”. He also gave promotion boards to the Department of Cultural Promotion.

The mayor, his deputies and civil defense volunteers then inspected the Lan Po Market, community and fishing pier to check their readiness to handle the influx of tourists during the weekend event.

This year’s event began three weeks earlier than last year, opening on Dec. 14 and will finish on Feb. 8. Operating only on weekends, it features live entertainment, stalls selling locally made products and local seafood,

and restaurants, all spread out over 800 meters between the Lan Po Public Park police box and Naklua Bridge.

This year food vendors pledged to protect the environment by not using plastic bags and foam containers.

Music on the opening weekend was provided on three stages with Jo-Kong, Novu, Suntaraporn, and Thai cultural singers and dancers as well as magic and comedy shows from The Jack Comedy Show troupe.

Pattaya no closer to redeveloping Big Buddha Hill shrine Teerarak Suthathiwong

Pattaya slapped Sukhawadee House with two more demolition orders after the tourist attraction, already appealing previous violations for encroaching on public land, built two more structures the city says are illegal.

Boonlua Chatree Pattaya slapped Sukhawadee House with two more demolition orders after the tourist attraction, already appealing previous violations for encroaching on public land, built two more structures the city says are illegal.

Pattaya began targeting Ban Sukhawadee in 2018, charging that more than 13 percent of the ostentatious mansion on Sukhumvit Road encroached on public land.

After initially promising full cooperation, the attraction’s owner, Saha Farms Co. founder Panya Chotitawan

has engaged in an asserted campaign of ignoring and appealing orders while simultaneously continuing to build on land Pattaya asserts is public, not private, property.

The city’s latest targets are two five-story concrete buildings under construction that reside on waterfront land that, city officials say, Panya doesn’t own.

Stop-work orders were issued, and notifications went up that no one was to use the structure and that both must be demolished.

Additionally, Pattaya engineers used fabric to mark off the public-land border,

informing Sukhawadee executives that their fence must sit six meters back from that line.

Sukhawadee currently is appealing the 2018 demolition orders, claiming that the order was illegal because the mansion had used that land for 20 years without the city ever exercising its rights.

The appeal is now before Chonburi Land Department officials.

Nine months after taking possession of a Chinese shrine on Big Buddha Hill, Pattaya is no closer to redeveloping the site it battled for years in the courts to control.

Deputy City Manager Pramote Tubtim, lawyers and engineers toured the five-rai Wang Sam Sien site on Phra Khao Yai Dec. 21, meeting with representatives of the Mahakitpaisan Foundation that built and managed the shrine built on public land.

City officials discussed formation of the court-mandated commission to manage the site and legal transfer documents. However, the future of the site is no clearer than it was when deputy mayors Manote Nongyai and Pattana Boonsawad

Deputy City Manager Pramote Tubtim, lawyers and engineers tour the five-rai Wang Sam Sien site on Phra Khao Yai.

toured the site March 28.

Pattaya was given the Ministry of Defense land previously managed by the Royal Thai Navy. After the rights were transferred, Pattaya improved the landscaping but found numerous private ventures had built on part of the land. It ordered all the

structures removed in October 2016.

The city originally planned to raze the shrine, but reversed course and will now manage it directly or turn it over to Chonburi Province.

But the design and budget for such redevelopment remains uncertain.

Red Cross aids fire-hit family in Sattahip Patcharapol Panrak The Sattahip Red Cross came to the rescue of a poor family left homeless after a fire at construction camp shack.

Foundation Chairwoman Pornthip Intasorn and Najomtien village chief Thanapat Banbuppa brought clothing, consumer products and food to the family headed by a Chaithong Jekjuntuk, 26, Dec. 13.

Chaithong, his Cambodian wife Jeb, 26, and their two daughters were out when fire ripped through their wood and aluminum house, destroying all their property.

The stove had been left on, sparking the fire.

The Sattahip Red Cross came to the rescue of a poor family left homeless after a fire at construction camp shack.

Kasemkittisophon, the abbot of Samakkeebanpot,

brought the family’s plight to the attention of Sattahip

District, which dispatched Red Cross personnel.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

PATTAYA MAIL

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 7

Facing drought, people Beach Road construction urged to conserve water set for Feb. 13 completion

Water volumes in the Mabprachan and Huay Chak Nok reservoirs have decreased steadily. PWA Pattaya Manager Sutat Nutchpan (inset) urges Pattaya residents to conserve water amid the threat of shortages next year.

Jetsada Homklin The Provincial Waterworks Authority urged Pattaya residents to conserve water amid the threat of shortages next year.

PWA Pattaya Manager Sutat Nutchpan said Dec. 19 that water volumes in the

Mabprachan and Huay Chak Nok reservoirs have decreased steadily, forcing the utility to slow tap-water production.

In October, the PWA said Pattaya could face its greatest water shortage in more than five years due to low levels in Chonburi reservoirs feeding the city.

Sutat said residents should reuse water where possible, such as using laundry and dish-washing water to water plants or even for daily showers. He said water meters should also be checked and trees – natural sources of water retention – should be preserved.

20-billion-baht Pattaya tram project gets first public hearing

Pattaya officials say roadwork that has turned Beach Road into a disaster zone during high season will be finished by Feb. 13, well after the current “high season”.

Jetsada Homklin Pattaya officials say roadwork that has turned Beach Road into a disaster zone during high season will complete by Feb. 13.

Speaking to the Pattaya Business & Tourism Association at the Dec. 18 meeting at the Green Park Resort, Deputy City Manager Worapot Pongpalee urged business leaders to be patient, arguing that the long-term benefit of better flood-drainage will be worth the current inconvenience.

Pattaya began ripping up Beach Road this summer to lay larger flood-drainage pipelines, culverts and sewer grates to handle the torrents of water that flow from higher ground to the beach, wiping out huge tracts of the rebuilt sand base.

The start of the project lagged badly, however, with workers advancing less than one block at one point in August and September. With the delays, the worst of the roadwork, traffic and detours have landed square in the middle of high season.

Worapot said city hall has met regularly with affected business owners and has adjusted work schedules when necessary to avoid major problems.

PBTA members expressed their frustration over the slow work that not only aggravates tourists, but shows the city in the worst-possible light at the worst-possible time.

But they agreed the project was necessary and implored city hall to wrap it up as soon as possible.

Boat, pier operators get safety warnings for New Year’s PCPR The proposed Pattaya tram got its first public hearing with the public getting a peek at its feasibility study for the first time.

PCPR The proposed Pattaya tram got its first public hearing with the public getting its first glimpse of its astronomical price tag.

While the official budget for the system that would run a loop around Beach and Second roads and into Jomtien Beach has not been set, the design and feasibility studies unveiled at the Brighton Grand Pattaya Hotel in Naklua Dec. 16 estimated the tram could cost 20 billion baht for 20 kilometers.

City officials said the funds would be supplied by the government under its Eastern Economic Corridor plan while consultants said funding also could spring from public-private joint ventures.

Pattaya officials in 2016 proposed that a light-rail or tram system be built, with variations on the plan calling for

a loop between North and South Pattaya on Beach and Second roads, or just a single track on one of those streets. The tram system would be based on one already being built in Khon Kaen.

In June 2017, Thammasat University researchers tested electric tram cars in Pattaya. They ran the rubber-wheeled trollies on four routes from Naklua to Jomtien Beach. The test, funded by the National Science and Technology Development Agency, was designed to collect data for the 103-million-baht feasibility study launched a year ago.

At the hearing hosted by Deputy City Manager Sutham Petchket, the history, objectives and scope of the project were summarized by architect Kritsada Pollasub while an explanation of environmental effects was given by environmental expert Prapat

Krungpanich.

Design-wise, there would be two lines: an eight-kilometer “Red Line” looping Pattaya and a 12-km. “Blue Line” connecting and running along Jomtien Beach Road.

Public participation in the project was outlined by consultant Monchanok Witarama and concluded with a question-and-answer session and taking of public comments.

There was plenty of public comment online as well following the session, with skeptics calling the tram the wrong fit for Pattaya and arguing city should do more to improve the roads first. Others questioned the cost of approximately a billion baht per kilometer, predicting that either fares will be exorbitant into order to pay for it or that the system would be a financial black hole with endless annual losses.

Marine Department officials reminded boat and pier operators of safety requirements in preparation for the busy New Year’s holiday.

Pier and pontoon operators must have adequate lighting and signs stating the maximum number of people allowed and life jackets and buoys must be available. Stairways must have guardrails.

Passenger boats are required to have signs showing the number of passengers and passengers are not allowed to stand and sit at the bow, stern, gunwale or roof.

Furthermore, tourists should wear life jackets on board. Drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited for boat crews and passengers drinking should remain controlled.

While sailing in the opposite directions or passing another boat in short distance, boats must reduce speed to minimize their wakes and avoid collisions.

Marine Department officials have been out reminding boat and pier operators to mind their safety requirements in preparation for the busy New Year’s holiday.

8 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

AP Explains: How Madrid talks fell short on climate ambition Aritz Parra & Frank Jordans Madrid (AP) — This year’s U.N. climate negotiations in Madrid, the longest in 25 nearly annual such gatherings, ended Sunday with major polluters resisting calls to ramp up efforts to keep global warming at bay.

Faced with the tough task of reconciling the demands of scientists, protesters on the streets and governments back home, the negotiators ended up disappointing many and leaving for next year’s talks in Glasgow, Scotland, key issues such as the regulation of global carbon markets.

Here is a look at the main issues resolved, and the sticking points for future negotiations.

Are bolder targets needed?

While it wasn’t officially on the agenda, most participants and observers agreed that the U.N. talks needed to send a strong signal that countries were willing to set bolder targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

That was far more ambitious than the goal ultimately set by the so-called “ChileMadrid Time for Action” declaration, which merely calls for the “urgent need” to cut planet-heating greenhouse gases in line with the

goals of the landmark 2015 Paris climate accord.

Scientists say global emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants have to start falling rapidly as soon as possible to meet the Paris goal of keeping global warming by the end of the century well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit), and ideally 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 F).

That accord allowed countries to set their own emissions-reduction targets — known as nationally determined contributions, or NDCs — which would be regularly reviewed and increased if necessary. With current emissions targets putting the world on course for a 3- to 4-degree Celsius temperature rise by 2100, scientists say sharper cuts are necessary and should be announced in advance of next year’s climate conference in Glasgow.

“The global emissions’ curve needs to bend in 2020, emissions need to be cut in half by 2030, and net zero emissions need to be a reality by 2050,” said Johan Rockstrom, head of the Postdam Institute for Climate Impact Research.

“Achieving this is possible — with existing technologies and within our current economy,” said the revered

In this March 19, 2019 file photo, the blades of wind turbines catch the breeze at the Saddleback Ridge wind farm in Carthage, Maine. Scientists say emissions worldwide need to start falling sharply from next year if there is to be any hope of achieving the Paris climate accord’s goal of capping global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 Fahrenheit). (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty, File)

climate scientist. “The window of opportunity is open, but barely.”

How to regulate global carbon markets?

Economists say market mechanisms can speed up the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.

One way to do this is by putting a price on carbon dioxide, the most abundant man-made greenhouse gas, and gradually reducing the amount countries and companies are allowed to emit.

The European Union and some other jurisdictions

around the world already have limited emissions trading systems for buying and selling carbon credits.

The Paris accord was meant to establish the rules for carbon trading on a global scale.

But setting the rules for a robust and environmentally sound market and linking up existing systems is difficult.

So, too, is the question of allocating a percentage of the revenue to help countries adapt to the effects of warming temperatures.

The main point of resistance lies in the existence of old carbon credits left over

from a now-discredited system established under the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. Developing countries such as Brazil insisted during the past two weeks in Madrid on keeping those emissions credits, while also resisting strict accounting of future trades.

The argument that carbon markets that are not transparent enough and leave loopholes for double counting can undermine efforts to reduce emissions won at the end, postponing the decision on the issue for Glasgow.

Aid for the poor In summit lingo the issue is known as “loss and damage.” In essence, it was recognized several years ago that developing nations are much more vulnerable to the negative effects of climate change, even though they contribute least to the problem.

A tentative agreement was reached in 2013 that rich countries would help them foot the bill.

But attributing specific weather disasters such as hurricanes and floods, or slow but irreversible changes like sea level rise and desertification, to climate change remains a delicate issue given the potential costs involved.

The United States, in particular, had opposed any references to possible liability

in the summit’s conclusions, and scored a victory when a decision on it was also postponed for another year.

Developing countries also demand that compensation be kept a separate issue from funds to help the countries adapt and mitigate the effects of a warming planet.

The Green Climate Fund, which was established to that end, is currently far from reaching the target of $100 billion a year in contributions.

Heat on the street Chile, which chaired the conference, chose to give it the slogan “Time for Action.”

That echoed the blunt demands from protesters, who have been staging mass rallies around the world for the past year demanding leaders take what they call the “climate emergency” seriously.

European Union countries responded to public pressure this week by agreeing to a long-term goal of cutting the bloc’s greenhouse gas emissions to net zero, meaning any that remain will be offset with carbon reduction measures.

Some observers and EU ministers had hoped this signal from Brussels would boost the talks in Madrid. If anything, it revealed the vast gap between what countries can agree at the regional level and what the U.N. process is capable of.

Meet the scholar who diagnosed ‘surveillance capitalism’ Frank Bajak, AP A year ago, Shoshana Zuboff dropped an intellectual bomb on the technology industry.

She hasn’t stood still since.

In a 700-page book, the Harvard scholar skewered tech giants like Facebook and Google with a damning phrase: “surveillance capitalism.” The unflattering term evokes how these companies vacuum up the details of our lives, make billions from that data and use what they’ve learned to glue our attention more firmly to their platforms.

A bestseller in Canada and Britain, “The Age of Surveillance Capitalism” was published in the U.S. in January, is being translated into 17 languages and has inspired two small theater productions. Zuboff, meanwhile, has been counseling politicians, crisscrossing the Atlantic for public forums from Los Angeles to Rome and hitting the podcast circuit.

She offered input on several pending U.S. privacy bills and wrote a 34-page policy paper for the House Judiciary Committee, whose antitrust panel is studying Big Tech’s potential abuse of its market dominance.

Zuboff has “put the language of economics around the experience that we all know we’re having,” says Beeban Kidron, a film director and U.K. House of Lords member who spearheaded child-protection rules limiting how apps gather data and tempt kids to linger online. “She’s a rock star.”

Early on, Zuboff realized researchers had missed the importance of the ambient data that digital services collect — where we use them, for how long, what we like, what we linger on and with whom we associate.

They were calling it “digital exhaust.”

But Zuboff saw that this data wasn’t just an unexpected byproduct, says Chris Hoofnagle, a University of California-Berkeley privacy expert. “It is the product.”

Tech industry allies denounce Zuboff’s thesis as conspiracy-minded hyperbole. Consumers willingly trade their personal data for access to valuable services that don’t cost them a cent, they argue. Google and Facebook declined to discuss Zuboff or her book.

But after more than a year of tech-related privacy scandals, malign election-interference and online platform-fueled

Author Shoshana Zuboff.

(AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)

extremism, investigations opened by state attorneys general and the U.S. government’s first tentative steps toward reining in its technology titans, it’s become clear that Zuboff helped crystallize previously vague apprehensions about the tech industry.

Zuboff ’s indictment is straightforward: Tech companies suck up our data trails then use those insights to steer us toward commercial interactions, develop their next addictive apps and predict our future behavior — effectively molding individual behavior.

Worse, she says, these invasive business practices are spreading. “By now this is a virus that has infected

every economic sector,” Zuboff told a meeting of international parliamentarians in May. Zuboff traces the origin of surveillance capitalism to 2001 as Google, then little more than a search engine, considered going public. Faced with the need to generate revenue, its founders decided to mine the data Google amasses when people make searches.

That helped Google improve search results but also informed it about users’ family lives, religious beliefs, ethnicity, political or sexual persuasion and more. Google fed those clues into a personalized advertising machine and became a global juggernaut.

Following Google’s example,

Facebook and other tech companies offered an irresistible bargain. People could connect to long-lost friends, search the world’s information and watch endless streams of video at no cost. Before long, smartphones launched an explosion of “free” apps with a hearty appetite for your data.

Nowadays, your movements, conversations, facial expressions and more are snatched by smart TVs, thermostats, refrigerators, doorbell cameras and connected cars. Dossiers are compiled on each of us.

Among the first women to earn tenure at Harvard Business School, Zuboff won plaudits for her early grasp of how digital technology would transform the business world with her 1988 book In the Age of the Smart Machine Her next book, “The Support Economy” — co-written with her late husband James Maxmin — predicted that out-of-touch corporations would give way to rivals responsive to the feedback of technologyempowered consumers.

To Zuboff, surveillance capitalism poses an existential threat whose hidden costs are intentionally obscured by its practitioners.

It is an “antidemocratic and

antiegalitarian juggernaut,” she writes.

In the name of personalization, she says, “it defiles, ignores, overrides and displaces everything about you and me that is personal.”

Not everyone agrees, to put it mildly.

Vice President Carl Szabo of the e-commerce trade group NetChoice, whose members include Facebook and Google, said her book “paints a typical dystopian picture of technology, dismissing the remarkable benefits of online platforms and data analysis.”

In response, Zuboff cites consumer surveys that indicate increasing unease with the prevailing, invasive business model.

She has no illusions about how difficult it will be to turn things around. Breaking up technology giants, says Zuboff, would do little to prevent their smaller progeny from continuing their work.

She does think the EU’s year-old data protection rule and California’s new data privacy law, which takes effect in January, are a good start.

And she’s heartened by a recent flurry of regulatory energy in Washington, D.C. “I think it’s the very early stages of a sea change.”

VOL. XXVII No. 42

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 9

PATTAYA MAIL

Gout – is it just from drinking port?

Gout, that exquisitely painful swelling in the joints, is more common than you might imagine, and no, you don’t get it from drinking port.

There are some famous sufferers out there, starting with Henry VIII, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. It is indicated in around five percent of all cases of arthritis and is present in around three to five percent of the population, with males outnumbering women around nine to one.

Gout is in its simplest fashion, a recurrent form of arthritis, and which generally affects just one joint – most commonly the joint in the big toe. This arthritis, or inflammation, usually occurs in association with high uric acid levels in the blood.

The higher the concentration of serum uric acid (SUA), the more likely you are to get an acute attack. The ‘normal’ range for SUA is taken as less than 0.42 mmol/L (called ‘milli moles’ per liter), but if your concentration is 0.54 mmol/L then you are five times more likely to get gout.

Did you ever grow sugar crystals in a saturated sugar solution at school? Basically what happens is just the same, that with high concentrations of uric acid it crystallizes out into the joint, leaving very sharp, needle-like crystals crunching inside the articular surface of the joint. Very painful!

The typical gout sufferer is male in his 50s, overweight, with high blood pressure, carnivorous and consumes large

quantities of alcohol. Is that you? Could almost be anyone in the pub near you!

Gout affects almost four million men in the USA. It has long been thought that purine-rich foods and a high protein intake are risk factors, and sufferers are advised to avoid meats, seafood, purine-rich vegetables, and animal protein. But this advice was based more on the theory of how excess blood uric acid can occur, rather than actual clinical studies.

Proper statistical studies of this condition began on over 50,000 men, drawn from health professionals, in 1986. Foodfrequency questionnaires were sent out at baseline, and repeated again in 1990 and 1994. In addition, height, medications, and medical conditions were recorded every two years.

The participants were assigned to groups according to the total intake of meat, their consumption of seafood, purine-rich vegetables, dairy products, low-fat dairy products, total protein, and animal protein.

During the study, there were 730 new cases of gout during the 12 years of follow-up. Most of them were aged 55 to 64.

When total meat consumption was analyzed, the risk of acquiring gout was 1.41 times greater in the high meat eaters; in other words, eating more meat was a risk factor for gout. Similarly, high seafood eaters were 1.51 times as likely to develop gout. (Newly mown grass should be fairly safe I believe!)

So what could be consumed? In contrast, gout was less common in those taking more dairy products. Men who drank two glasses a day of skim milk, or ate a serving of low-fat yogurt more than twice a week, halved their risk of developing gout. In this study at least, purine-rich vegetables, and total protein had no influence on the chances of getting gout.

This large study confirmed that a diet high in meat and seafood increased the likelihood that a susceptible person will develop gout. It also showed that milk proteins increase the excretion or uric acid in the urine.

So, to avoid developing gout, try to limit your intake of meat (beef, pork, lamb, and offal) and seafood, while increasing your intake of low-fat dairy products (skim milk, yogurt).

This is all very important, as the long term outlook is not good for the unrepentant gout sufferer. Constant high levels can lead to uric acid ‘stones’ being deposited in the kidneys (producing renal problems) and even discharging lumps (called ‘tophi’) around joints, on the forearms and even on the outer ears. Really a most painful future.

Note too, that it is low-fat milk that is being proposed, as high fat milk introduces the cholesterol problems again!

It really is a fine line that we must all tread!

Finally, if you have been diagnosed as being a gouty sufferer seek treatment at the first twinge. Don’t wait.

1 year later, mystery surrounds China’s gene-edited babies Musunuru said of the gene editing. “We don’t know if it’s harming the kids.”

Marilynn Marchione, AP Chinese scientist He Jiankui shocked the world by claiming he had helped make the first gene-edited babies. One year later, mystery surrounds his fate as well as theirs.

Jiankui has not been seen publicly since January, his work has not been published and nothing is known about the health of the babies.

“That’s the story — it’s all cloaked in secrecy, which is not productive for the advance of understanding,” said Stanford bioethicist Dr. William Hurlbut.

Jiankui talked with Hurlbut many times before Jiankui revealed at a Hong Kong science conference that he had used a tool called CRISPR to alter a gene in embryos to try to help them resist infection with the AIDS virus.

The work, which Jiankui discussed in exclusive interviews with The Associated Press, was denounced as medically unnecessary and unethical because of possible harm to other genes and because the DNA changes can pass to future generations.

Since then, many people have called for regulations or a moratorium on similar work, but committees have bogged down over who should set standards and how to enforce them.

“Nothing has changed,” said Dr. Kiran Musunuru, a University of Pennsylvania geneticist who just published a book about gene editing and the CRISPR babies case.

“I think we’re farther from governing this” now than a year ago, said Hurlbut, who disapproves of what Jiankui did. However, so much effort

Others who were involved

In this Nov. 28, 2018, file photo, He Jiankui, a Chinese researcher, speaks during the Human Genome Editing Conference in Hong Kong. He has not been seen publicly since January, his work has not been published and nothing is known about the health of the GMO babies. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung, File)

has focused on demonizing Jiankui that it has distracted from how to move forward, he said.

Here’s what’s known about the situation:

He Jiankui Jiankui was last seen in early January in Shenzhen, on the balcony of an apartment at his university, which fired him from its faculty after his work became known.

Armed guards were in the hall, leading to speculation he was under house arrest.

A few weeks later, China’s official news agency said an investigation had determined that Jiankui acted alone out of a desire for fame and would be punished for any violations of law.

Since then, AP’s efforts to reach him have been unsuccessful. Ryan Ferrell, a media relations person Jiankui hired, declined to comment.

Ferrell previously said Jiankui’s wife had started paying him, which might mean that Jiankui is no longer in a position to do that himself.

Hurlbut, who had been in touch with Jiankui early this year, declined to say when he last heard from him.

The Babies The Chinese investigation seemed to confirm the existence of twin girls whose DNA Jiankui said he altered.

The report said the twins and people involved in a second pregnancy using a gene-edited embryo would be monitored by government health departments.

Nothing has been revealed about the third baby, which should have been born from that second pregnancy in late summer.

Chinese officials have seized the remaining edited embryos and Jiankui’s lab records.

“Jiankui caused unintended consequences in these twins,”

Rice University in Houston said it is still investigating the role of Michael Deem, whose name was on a paper Jiankui sent to a journal and who spoke with the AP about Jiankui’s work. Deem was Jiankui’s adviser when Jiankui attended Rice years ago.

The AP and others have reported on additional scientists in the U.S. and China who knew or strongly suspected what Jiankui was doing.

“Many people knew, many people encouraged him.

Jiankui did not do this in a corner,” Hurlbut said.

The Science Scientists recently have found new ways to alter genes that may be safer than CRISPR. Gene editing also is being tested against diseases in children and adults, which is not controversial because those changes don’t pass to future generations.

Some scientists think gene editing will become more widely accepted if it’s proved to work in those situations.

“It’s moving forward slowly because it’s being done responsibly,” Musunuru said.

Public Opinion A forum was held in Berkeley, California, last month to get public views on gene editing — everything from

modifying mosquitoes and crops to altering embryos.

The National Academy of Sciences recently pulled a video it made after concern arose about how it portrayed the ethically dicey science and its possible use to make designer babies. The academy has been leading some efforts to set standards for gene editing, and it gets most of its funding from the government, although a private grant paid for the video, a spokeswoman said.

An AP/NORC poll last year found that most Americans say it would be OK to use gene-editing to protect babies against disease, but not to change DNA so

children are born smarter, faster or taller.

Regulation A moratorium is no longer strong enough, and regulation is needed, CRISPR pioneer Jennifer Doudna of the University of California, Berkeley recently wrote in a commentary in the journal Science.

She noted that the World Health Organization has asked regulators in all countries not to allow such experiments, and that a Russian scientist recently proposed one.

“The temptation to tinker” with the DNA of embryos, eggs or sperm “is not going away,” she wrote.

10

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

Odds and Ends The Associated Press

Ray of festive cheer: Santa feeds the fish in Berlin Berlin (AP) — Santa has taken a dive in Berlin. A diver dressed as Father Christmas - and a companion dressed as an angel - descended into the tank at the Sea Life aquarium in Berlin on Thursday to offer the fish some seasonal cheer.

The festive feeding of the sharks, rays and others has become an annual event at the aquarium, which is home to about 5,000 underwater creatures.

PATTAYA MAIL

Crossword No 1368

VOL. XXVII No. 42

sponsored by

Massic Travel

Across 1 Trouble (6) 4 Channel port (6) 8 Smart (5) 9 Exact copy (7) 10 Nuts from a horse chestnut tree (7) 11 Turn aside (5) 12 Think back (9) 17 Of the town (5) 19 In name only (7) 21 Situated (7) 22 Protective garment (5) 23 Various (6) 24 Each one (6)

Down

(AP Photo/Markus Schreiber)

Cats to be put on leashes to protect wildlife? EU says No Brussels (AP) — Put domestic cats on a leash to better protect threatened birds and the environment? The European Union says that would deny mankind’s furry friend its unalienable right to roam. The EU’s executive said Thursday that it is “a strong defender of free movement rights — including of cats” and “categorically” denied it would ever force cats to be kept indoors or on a leash, as one scientific study suggests. Tilburg University scientists wrote in Oxford’s Journal of Environmental Law that free-ranging domestic cats “impact biodiversity through predation, disturbance, competition, disease and hybridization,” and added that the predatory impact is worse than often assumed. They argued that EU laws and directives could effectively force owners to keep them indoors or on a leash outdoors.

(AP Photo/Virginia Mayo, File)

TSA finds gun-shaped toilet paper roller in bag at airport Newark, N.J. (AP) — Transportation Security Administration agents at New Jersey’s Newark Liberty Airport uncovered a more decorative than deadly item when they checked a passenger’s carry-on. Agents on Tuesday thought there was a gun in the bag when they put it through the X-ray machine. However, a closer inspection revealed a gun-shaped toilet paper roller. The realistic replica gun was designed to spin paper instead of bullets. Travelers are not permitted to bring real or replica firearms through security checkpoints. TSA says it gave the man the option to place it in a checked bag, hand it off to a companion or surrender it. He decided to give it to TSA.

1 Rudiments (6) 2 Paint solvent (7) 3 Large bird of prey (5) 5 Seems (7) 6 Get up (5) 7 Sailors’ song (6) 9 Reverberated (9) 13 Watch carefully (7) 14 Magnify (7) 15 Constructs (6) 16 Alloy of copper and tin (6) 18 Meat from a pig (5) 20 Vagrant (5)

Last week’s answers Across: 1 Hymn, 3 Colossal, 9 Migrate, 10 Taxis, 11 Recur, 12 Donkey, 14 Uphold, 16 Hernia, 19 Canada, 21 Paste, 24 Unite, 25 Vermont, 26 Nightcap, 27 Chic.

Down: 1 Humorous, 2 Magic, 4 Overdo, 5 Often, 6 Sixteen, 7 Last, 8 Barrel, 13 Majestic, 15 Healing, 17 Expire, 18 Latvia, 20 Alert, 22 Sloth, 23 Burn.

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

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

Answer next week.

Last week’s answers:

No. 270

(Transportation Security Administration via AP)

Oink oink, cha-ching: $3 million found in barrels of pork Shelby, N.C. (AP) — Barrels of raw pork shoulder were riding fat in a tractor trailer pulled over by North Carolina deputies. Approximately $3 million in cash was recovered from the barrels Saturday, the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office said in a Facebook post Tuesday. The driver of the tractor trailer was accused of failing to maintain his lane and impeding the flow of traffic on Interstate 85. Deputies became suspicious of the truck when a K-9 alerted to the trailer, the post says. Deputies searched the tractor trailer and discovered the cash wrapped in plastic in the barrels. The money is believed to have been obtained from drug sales throughout the region and was headed to Mexico, Sheriff Alan Norman said. “It’s one of the largest U.S. currency seizures in Cleveland County history,” Norman told The Shelby Star.

The Department of Justice has been called to assist in the investigation, according to the sheriff’s office.

Answers next week.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

PATTAYA MAIL

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

11

Making money with your camera

You can still make a small fortune out of professional or amateur photography – but you have to start with a large one.

However, even amateur photographers can make some money with their cameras, but (there’s always a “but” isn’t there) they have to understand the marketplace first. It is no good trying to sell a beautifully exposed photo of hydroponic tomatoes growing in magic broth to a magazine called the Cat Fanciers monthly.

My advice to the weekend snapper is to research the market and only after this, see what is wanted, against what you have, or intend to photograph.

Researching is not too difficult or onerous, it is just a case of looking at magazines on offer in the shops (forget the Cat Fancier’s monthly, they’re not buying this month). After that, look at advertisements in newspapers as well as magazines, and you will soon get an idea of what the marketplace is interested in. All that research needs to be done before you even think about the hardware (cameras) you are going to need.

My advice to anyone starting off is to look for magazines and brochures that cover travel. Look at the stock photos of palm trees leaning out over the water from a tropical beach. Seen one, seen them all, but you should try and get some shots like that for your own portfolio.

Next in the travel pic grab bag are ceremonies. The vegetarian ceremonies that include demented people sticking rods through their cheek and tongues will always have a market somewhere – and they have these

Dear Hillary, Are some of your writers for real? They tell me there are older foreign males walking around Pattaya with young Thai women in tow! It could be more amazing if old foreign women were walking around with young Thai men in tow (not that it doesn’t happen, mind you). What is wrong with these people? Can’t they just live and let live? They aren’t doing anybody any harm.

Bobby Dear Bobby, You just keep on enjoying yourself Bobby my Petal, and don’t get hung up on the life of others, because it just might ruin it for you. Just remember that those Pattaya residents complaining are foreigners themselves and probably worried that the visitors will get the pick of the bunch, if you know what I mean.

Dear Hillary, I never thought I would have to write to someone like you, but I’m here from the UK to look after my old father (he’s almost 80) and is, I thought, living on his own in Pattaya.

When I spoke to him from England I got the impression that he was still pining for my late mother who died just over 12 months ago, but when I got here that seems to be nothing like the true situation. I find that he is going to girly bars at night and I have seen them fondling him in a most indiscreet manner. It’s worse than that, because he often brings one of them home. What can he possibly do at his age? Do you agree that a man of his age (and a retired civil engineer too) should not be handling himself in this way? I find it disgusting, and my mother would be horrified if she knew just what depravity he is up to now she has passed on. I

ceremonies in Thailand, so you are miles ahead of your brother photographers in Europe, who only get castles and woods in winter.

In fact, the tropical lifestyle will always be a ready market for good photographs. Note that I said “good”, cameraphone snapshots are very rarely “good” enough.

The saffron clothed monks remain ideal subjects, especially as you can get one on the corner of your street any morning. Just don’t intrude.

A long lens is best for those sorts of pictures. Of course, the temples themselves offer the photographer end-

less subjects to photograph.

But try to get a different viewpoint of a very well photographed subject.

All the images mentioned above must also have another common feature. They must be well exposed and sharp as a tack. Art directors or photo-editors may need to enlarge the image, by 100 percent or even more. You must be 100 percent sure that the subject of the photograph is in focus.

Near enough is not good enough! If you are shooting medium format, you can generally expect to get sharp pictures, but the

would like your advice on how I get him to stop this sort of thing, as I am sure you will be just as disgusted at this type of behavior being shown by someone who used to be a loving husband to my late mother and father to me. My mother used to handle him OK until she got sick. Is it a medical problem, do you think?

Antoinette Dear Antoinette, No my dear, it is not a medical problem, it is a daughter problem. However, I do not understand your saying that he has been “handling himself in this way” when in the sentence before you give me to believe that he is being more than adequately handled by others! You should be pleased that your 80 year old father is still showing signs of life and share in his enjoyment of it. Life is for living, no matter what age you are and how much longer you’ve got. Time for you to lighten up, Petal. If your father is not asking to be looked after in a ‘wifely’ way, you should not presume to do it. If you want to do something for your father in a constructive fashion get him a medical check up and a packet of Vitamin V if he is medically fit enough, though it sounds like he is more than up to it already (pun).

Dear Hillary, My girlfriend and I live in an apartment in town. We have a good relationship except for the fact she keeps losing the keys and her mobile phone. This is very annoying, how can I stop her doing this?

Annoyed

lenses on modern DSLRs are more than adequate.

That brings me to the next ‘must have’ piece of equipment – a good heavy tripod.

You will always get sharper pictures with the camera locked onto a strong tripod.

The el cheapo light aluminium things are quite useless for the job you will need them. I have used a Manfrotto for 30 years and it is still good, despite the scratches that they get from plane holds, rail travel and going twice around the world. Get a good one and don’t try and cheat yourself with the bottom of the market ones.

Similarly, while chasing sharpness, you must have some good lenses, otherwise your work is compromised before you begin. I am not going to join the debate about after-market lenses. Some of them, I am sure, are excellent – but not all of them.

Many pro shooters advocate prime lenses and to avoid zooms. The purist in me agrees, but again I think much will depend upon the subject being shot, and where it will end up. Lens technology has improved enormously in the last 10 years.

In my previous life I used 6x6 Hasselblad and had the complete (expensive) system. (My 6x6 transparencies were always met with smiles from the art directors, but I found I could dupe 35 mm transparencies up to 6x6 and still get the same smiles and same money.)

To sell a photo it must tell the story it is illustrating, and it must be sharp. Good luck with the Cat Fanciers!

Dear Annoyed Have you ever considered the fact that your girlfriend is losing keys and telephones as a subconscious way of expressing her lack of satisfaction with the relationship or simply as a device to annoy you? It is very difficult, if not impossible to change someone else’s behavior, unless you change your own behavior first. I suggest you change the way you respond to her. One quick fix is to either don’t let her see that it annoys you or simply don’t speak to her for days every time she loses things. The best way though is to “Give her the monkey and let her feed it.” This is a Thai expression for allowing her to take the consequence of her own actions. It might work.

Dear Hillary, About a month ago you received some letters discussing whether all that Thai women want is money (or gold), so I hope you don’t mind if I put my two bobsworth in here as well. Yes, all they want is money, and by the bucketload.

After they’ve cleaned you out, they disappear and you are left with nothing and they don’t show any remorse either.

As a foreigner you are fair game, better get used to it.

Jack Dear Jack, Your bank account still empty and you are hurting, aren’t you, my poor Petal. But with any partnership there has to be an equal split. If you leave it so that she has everything and you have nothing, like the bee, she will buzz to the next flower. Be more honest with yourself, Jack. Let her have her own bank account.

12 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Regents International School Pattaya embrace the Gift of Giving this Christmas by donating presents to Community Partners

Regents students have shown great compassion and responsibility by filling a box full of items that children at Hand to Hand and Father Ray need.

Victoria Swan Communications Manager For Christmas this year Regents students in Primary embraced the ‘Gift of Giving’ by donating over 280 presents to Community Partners, The Father Ray Foundation and Hand to Hand.

Regents students have shown great compassion and responsibility by filling

a box full of items that children at Hand to Hand and Father Ray need; for example, toiletries and snacks.

Many of the children receiving these gifts have never received a present before.

Every Year Group at Regents joins with a Community Partner for the year. The partnerships are a sharing of knowledge and understanding between two groups

Ms Margie from Hand to Hand came and collected over 180 presents for the children she helps.

which come from very different backgrounds. Community Partnerships and the service-related experiences which they involve develop in our students an understanding of and appreciation for responsible citizenship and other valuable social and emotional life skills.

Father Ray Foundation Father Ray Foundation provides homes and access to education to children and young people with disabilities.

The vision of the Foundation is to make a positive difference in the lives of underprivileged children so they will achieve their highest potential and grow up to become responsible adults and valuable members of society.

“I can’t thank you enough for what you have done for our children. Seeing the Year 6 children carrying their beautifully wrapped gifts

Many of the children who will receive these gifts have never received a present before.

for the children was beautiful…some of my children have had awful lives, and they will never forget the feeling of abandonment or abuse, but in years to come I hope they will remember the magical Christmas Days they used to have.”

Mr Derek Franklin, Father Ray Foundation

Hand to Hand Ms Margie from Hand to Hand came and collected over 180 presents for the children she helps.

Hand to Hand is an organization based in Pattaya that recognises human rights apply to all age groups.

They seek to protect those

who are marginalised regardless of their race, age or religion. They achieve this by showing them the love through prayer and on a much more practical level, by providing services such as helping them acquire legal documentation and offering food, clothing and an education.

Technological College Graduation Ceremony

Lufthansa crew visits CPDC, told more aid needed After two years of studying English she has her first ever job.

Derek Franklin Thirty six graduating students from the Technological College for People with Disabilities sat nervously waiting for their name to be called, and when it was they made their way forward to receive their graduation certificate.

Not only was their name called, but the name of the course they studied and

Father Peter presented the certificates.

where they are currently employed.

Of the thirty six graduates, male and female, 100% have been offered employment, though four young men are currently training to represent Thailand at the South East Asia Para Games which will take place in January 2020 in the Philippines.

The College, which opened as a vocational school in

1984, offers not only college level courses, it also provides courses for those who have none or very little previous education.

Completing their studies, graduating from the college and receiving their certificate from Father Peter was for many graduates something they could only dream of, and now their dreams have come true.

HHNFT Director Radchada Chomjinda and children present bags and hats the children made for their Lufthansa guests to take home as souvenirs.

Jetsada Homklin Cabin crew and a pilot from Lufthansa Airlines checked in on the Child Protection Development Center to see how an agricultural project funded by the carrier was proceeding.

Human Help Network

Foundation Thailand Director Radchada Chomjinda welcomed pilot Benjamin Fischer and flight attendants to the 360-sq.-meter plot in Huay Yai that is home to two fish ponds stocked with 50,000 Jullien’s golden-price carp, 40 chickens, 40 ducks, seven pigs and more than

100,000 crickets.

Radchada said the project had proceeded well but still needed more support for animal husbandry, animal feed, plants and seeds.

She said the project helps kids develop skills and keeps them out of trouble during their free time.

Half the graduates were female.

Several male graduates are off to sports camp.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Siam@Siam celebrates 6th anniversary

Holiday travelers warned to arrive 3 hours early to airport Holiday travelers are advised to arrive at five international airports three hours before their flight’s scheduled departure time during the New Year festival as about 600,000 passengers are expected to pack the airport daily.

Extra hours will allow air passengers to have plenty of time for the screening process in line with instructions from the International Civil Aviation Organization, said Pol Maj-General Weerapol Charoensiri, Commander of Immigration Division 2.

At Suvarnabhumi Airport alone, from Dec 15-31, there will be 14,530 inbound and outbound flights, higher than 13,860 flights last year.

The number of passengers is projected about 160,000 passengers per day.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 13

PATTAYA MAIL

Holiday travelers are advised to arrive three hours before their flight’s scheduled departure time during the New Year festival.

Immigration checkpoints will intensify crime fighting and facilitate security clearance during Christmas and New Year holidays at five international airports – Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai from Dec 20 to Jan 6, 2020.

The immigration staff will be deployed at all counters to ease passenger congestion and the immigration offices will work with the airport agency and airlines to assist travelers to go through the immigration process as quickly as possible. (TNA)

Pornpinit Pornprapa, president of the Siam@Siam Group, members of his family, hotel employees and guests mark the hotel’s sixth anniversary with a merit-making ceremony offering alms to nine monks from Chaimongkol Temple.

Jetsada Homklin The Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya marked its sixth anniversary with a merit-making ceremony.

Pornpinit Pornprapa, president of the Siam@Siam

Destination

Group, members of his family, hotel employees and guests joined in the Dec. 9 event, offering alms to nine monks from Chaimongkol Temple.

Worship services were held with respect paid to the

hotel’s shrine before the monks were offered a pre-noon meal.

Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya opened with its Art Deco style in 2013 with 268 rooms, two swimming pools, fitness center, pool for kids and other facilities.

SPECIAL AIR FARES ECONOMY PRICE FROM VALID .

LONDON/MUNICH

BUSINESS PRICE FROM VALID .

EVA (LON) BRITISH (LON EDI MAN NCL GLA) EMIRATES(LON) EMIRATES (MUC) FINNAIR (MUC) KLM (MUC)

14500++ 12000++ 13000++ 16000++ 14000++ 12400

1Y 1Y 6M 6M 1Y 3M

SWISSAIR (GVA) FINNAIR (DUB) GULF AIR (FRA) LUFTHANSA (PAR)

12000++ 13500++ 12000++ 12000++

1Y 1Y 3M 1Y

85500++ 54500++ 42000++ 79000++

1Y 1Y 2M YR

THAI AIRWAYS GARUDA AIRLINES(PER)

13000++ 12000++

1M

ONE WAY 29000

1M

CATHAY ( SINGAPORE) EMIRATES (HONG KONG) HONGKONG AIRLINES (HONGKONG) SINGAPORE AIRLINES (SINGAPORE)

4000++ 7500++ 4700++ 5600++

7D 4M 2/7D 14D

19000++

1M

13400++ 21000++

1M 3M

HONGKONG AIRLINES (NRT) JEJU AIR (ICN,PUS) JAPAN AIRLINES (TYO/FUK/OSA/NGO)

6500++ 6800++ 12500++

14D 1Y 14D

25500++

1M

EVA (LAX,SFO) ASIANA AIRLINES (LAX) CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES (LAX) ALL NIPPON (SFO)

19500++ 15500++ 12000++ 27000++

6M 6M 6M

SHANGHAI AIRLINES (SHA) CJINA SOUTHERN AIRLINES (CAN)

6000++ 7000++

1M 1M

GULF AIR (CAI)

8500++

4M

VIETNAM AIRLINES (HAN,SGN) PHILIPPINES AIRLINES (MNL/CEB)

2000++ 5900++

3M 14D

ADV 3D ADV 3D ADV 3D ADV 7D

39000++ 26500++ 58500++

1Y PREM. ECO. 1Y PREM. ECO. 2M ADV. 3D

SINGAPORE/HONGKONG

JAPAN/KOREA USA

CHINA

AFRICA

VIETNAM/PHILIPPINES

CHINA VISA ASSISTANCE SERVICE THAI PASSPORT HOLDERS 5 WORKING DAYS 3,600.EUROPEAN PASSPORT HOLDERS 5 WORKING DAYS 6,400.Need: Passport, 2”x2” photos Permanent residence permit/Work Permit/Retirement visa ALSO. Assist with Vietnam.

Myanmar,India visas.

DUBLIN/GENEVA /FRANKFURT/PARIS

SYDNEY MELBOURNE BRISBANE/PERTH

WOLD WIDE DESTINATIONS CALL 038 426 240 | 038 411 330 FOR LATEST QUOTES

Application assistance for US, UK, Schengan visa

55500++

www.massictravel.net

(PREM)

FARES SHOWN ARE INFORMATIONAL AND SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. " ++ " DENOTES TAXES & SURCHARGES AND NOT INCLUDED IN THE FARES. VISIT US FORLATEST ALL INCLUSIVE OPTIONS. FARES AND CONDITIONS MAY CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTOCE

ALLFARES ROUND TRIP UNLESS STATED WE OPEN : MON-FRI 09:30 - 18:00 | SAT 09:30 - 16:00 | SUNDAY CLOSED. |

14 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Poles Apart Right then. Sit up and try to look interested, for I am about to ask you a question.

What is the first name that springs to mind if I mention Polish classical music?

“Chopin!” I hear you squeal and you are correct, despite the fact that he spent most of his life in France. But you might be hard-pressed to come up with any other Polish names. Henryk Wieniawski is one of the best-known, because his Second Violin Concerto still remains popular.

Then there was Moszkowski, who was a big name in the late nineteenth century. We mustn’t forget Paderewski either, who was a worldclass pianist and had the distinction of briefly being Poland’s Prime Minister. He achieved sufficient musical success to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles.

In the twentieth century, Poland produced a crop of composers who have achieved international recognition. In 1992, a recording of the Symphony of Sorrowful Songs

by Henryk Górecki (gooRETS-kee) topped the classical charts in Britain and the United States selling more than a million copies.

Perhaps the other most influential Polish composers are Szymanowski, Panufnik, Lutoslawski and Krzysztof Penderecki. The music of Penderecki (pronounced, usually with difficulty) as KZHISH-toff pen-der-ETSkee is more familiar than his name because it’s been used in several movies, notably

Witold Lutoslawski.

The Exorcist and The Shining. One of his most influential works is the musically-challenging Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima, which was used in the 2006 movie Children of Men. The two works this week really couldn’t be more different. The first one basks in the closing years of the nineteenth century, the second firmly in the twentieth.

Karol Szymanowski (1882–1937): Etude in B flat minor Op. 4, No. 3. Moniuszko School of Music Symphony Orchestra, cond. Andrzej Kucybala (Duration 06:12; Video: 720p HD) An étude is the French name for a study, originally a piano piece intended to develop a particular keyboard technique. All aspiring pianists are obliged to struggle through the studies of Clementi or Czerny but two composers, Chopin in Poland and Liszt in Hun-

gary raised the étude to a high art-form.

Szymanowski (shihma-NOFF-skee) composed his four études for piano between 1900 and 1902.

The third étude is slow and lyrical and has become the most popular of the set. It was performed by leading pianists of the time and brought the composer considerable fame, especially after it was orchestrated by the Polish composer and conductor Grzegorz Fitelberg.

The work has rich, confident harmonies and a lovely nostalgic melody which draws the music to a dramatic climax (at 03:50) before the tension begins to subside as it nears the reflective conclusion. Even though it was composed in the early years of the 20th century there’s a distinct air of fin de siècle about the music.

You’ll probably notice some quite dissonant harmonies towards the end; a hint of

Szymanowski’s later musical style. Incidentally, he wrote a staggering quantity of music including several concertos and four symphonies. After hearing the third symphony, his younger compatriot, the composer Witold Lutoslawski remarked that he felt “quite dizzy for several weeks”. But in the years to come Lutoslawski would go on to develop a powerful musical style far removed from that of Szymanowski.

Witold Lutoslawski (1913-1994): Concerto for Orchestra. Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra cond.

Edward Gardner (Duration: 30:46; Video: 1080p HD) Witold Lutoslawski (VEE-tolt loo-to-SWAHFskee) is one of the great voices of twentieth century Polish music although

he was relatively unknown outside the country until the 1960s. This powerful work was first performed in 1954 and was largely responsible for bringing recognition to the composer.

It’s brilliantly scored for an enormous orchestra with an extensive percussion section as well as a piano, two harps and a celeste. In case you’ve forgotten, or possibly never knew the celeste is a tinkling instrument that looks like a small piano. The name means “heavenly” in French and the instrument is best known for its prominent role in Tchaikovsky’s Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. You won’t hear many fairies, sugar-plum or otherwise in this actionpacked Concerto for Orchestra. It opens with fragments of melody scattered over a relentless, threatening percussive pounding in which d i s s o n ance abounds,

though there are also moments of opulent harmony with tantalizing fragments of folk-song.

The second movement begins with a kind of nocturnal scurrying and develops into a heroic passage featuring the brass before the scurrying music returns. The virtuosic final movement is in three parts and opens with the time-honoured passacaglia – a series of variations on a brooding melody first heard on the basses. This leads into a driving and intensely rhythmic toccata which drives onward throughout the thrilling movement with sudden quiet passages of intense haunting beauty. The work culminates in a triumphant hymn-like passage thundered out by the entire orchestra before a frenetic closing section brings the work to a breath-taking conclusion.

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.

A wild journey through time, complete with a surprise ending Ann Yao In his latest book, the author of Mango Rains takes on a new genre, one which he has successfully conquered in his first try.

In Paul Millard’s Time Travel Chronicles I: Fat Tony’s Diner, the first book in Daniel M. Dorothy’s new trilogy, protagonist Paul Millard inherits a large sum of money from a former employer. He then, quote: “did what any self-respecting, formerly indigent, income tax challenged ex-lobster sternman would do: (he) went on a spending spree.”

He bought an expensive vehicle, threw wild parties, bought land and houses, and despite advice from other newly rich people “to rent, not buy anything that flies, floats or fornicates,” he bought a large boat.

After growing up in a poor family, it becomes obvious Paul had no idea how to handle that much money.

His first wakeup call came when a woman was beaten by her foreign husband at one of his parties. When the attending doctor assumed he was responsible, Paul realized there was a whole world of people who could put this money to much better use. It was time to funnel his remaining inheritance into good causes.

He donated to medical research in cancer and Alzheimer’s, but his big commitment was made to building and supporting a shelter for abused women and children, run by the doctor who attended the victim from his party.

It didn’t take long for him to realize the remaining inheritance would not be sufficient to keep the shelter running, so he enlisted the help of his lawyer to raise funds. About the same time William Vrill the Fourth showed up at one of the shoreline parties. The great-grandson of a German mad-scientist, William was convinced he could build a portal through space-time.

A late night, porch-sitting, alcohol and herb induced conversation convinced Paul if such a device could be built, maybe he could use it to go back in time to raise enough funds through smart investing to keep the shelter running in perpetuity. Without telling anyone, he made the jump and quickly learned that things don’t always develop to according plan.

Along the way, Paul experiences what some might describe as Forrest Gump moments, including meeting some of the most well-known people of their time. He falls in love, gets mixed up with gangsters, the government thinks he might be a spy, and the local police believes he’s an outlaw, which leaves him no choice but to try and find a way to escape.

Dorothy does a good job developing his characters and how he subtly shows the maturing process Paul Millard goes through along the way.

Fat Tony’s Diner is a fun read that takes readers on a wild journey through time, complete with a surprise ending.

Filled with foreshadowing and red herrings, it’s a must read for anyone who enjoys a good book. Readers will be greedily anticipating the next volume in the trilogy, and we hope it comes out soon.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 15

PATTAYA MAIL

Regents’ “Wizard of Oz” worthy of standing ovation

Couple who bought $120k banana art sense it will be iconic

Victoria Swan, Communications Manager Regents International School Pattaya whole school production of The Wizard of Oz with a live orchestra was the biggest most ambitious musical performance Regents has hosted in 25 years.

This week has been another proud week for Regents as they celebrate the creative, artistic and technical skills of students, teachers and the whole school community who have all collaborated on the ambitious project and which draws on the strengths of Regents Performing Arts faculty.

Regents offers students a world leading arts education with their unique collaboration with Juilliard. The set, music, costumes and talent on stage can all be attributed to the exceptional students and staff who worked extremely hard to create the timeless classic. Students put in over 3,400 hours for orchestra rehearsals

Regents International School Pattaya’s whole school orchestra takes a curtain call.

In this Dec. 4, 2019 photo, gallery owner Emmanuel Perrotin poses next to Italian artist Maurizio Cattlelan’s “Comedian” at the Art Basel exhibition in Miami Beach, Fla. The work sold for $120,000.

(Siobhan Morrissey via AP)

Kelli Kennedy

Dorothy and Toto meet up with Scarecrow, Lion, & Tin Girl.

and Secondary and Primary staff who supervised

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my...

contributed over 75 hours of their time.

The Wizard of Oz is a story about a tornado that rips through Kansas. Dorothy and her dog, Toto, are whisked away in their house to the magical Land of Oz They follow the Yellow Brick Road toward the Emerald City to meet the Wizard, and on the way, they meet a Scarecrow that needs a brain, a Tin Girl missing a heart, and a Cowardly Lion who wants courage. The Wizard of Oz was originally made in 1939 and is considered one of the greatest films in cinema history. It was originally nominated for six academy awards and won best song for “Over the Rainbow”.

The Wizard of Oz Facts:

* Over 60 pieces of music * The conductor’s sheet music is 520 pages * Dorothy has 268 lines * 11 radio microphones and 6 static microphones * 3 bubble machines * Over 20 light fixtures Regents student involvement included 8 Principal leads, 20 Secondary chorus, 19 Primary students, 14 Early Years students, 25 Orchestra, 25 Student Technical Crew and over 40 staff!

Regents would like to say a special thank you to Mr. Ross Gerritsen - Producer and Musical Director, Ms Kate Parsons – Director, Mr. Graeme Spencer – Choreographer, Ms. Kate Lipsham – Costumes, Ms. Nicole Rudden – Makeup, and Mr. Glen Mortensen - Technical.

Miami (AP) — A Miami couple who bought a headline-grabbing banana duct-taped to a wall have acknowledged the absurdity of the artwork, but say they believe it will become an icon and plan to gift it to a museum.

Billy and Beatrice Cox said in a statement that they spent more than $100,000 on the “unicorn of the art world” after seeing “the public debate it sparked about art and our society.”

The conceptual artwork — “Comedian,” by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan — was the talk of last week’s Art Basel Miami. The artist sold three editions, each in the $120,000 to $150,000 range, according to the Perrotin gallery.

“We are acutely aware of the blatant absurdity of the fact that ‘Comedian’ is an otherwise inexpensive and perishable piece of produce and a couple inches of duct tape,” the Coxes said. “Ultimately we sense that Cattelan’s banana will become an iconic historical object.”

The piece was widely parodied on social media.

Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest framed a bagel with a piece of duct tape over it and Brooke Shields taped a banana to her forehead, writing, “An expensive selfie,” on Instagram.

On Saturday at the art fair,

Georgian-born artist David Datuna removed the latest iteration of the banana from the wall, unpeeled it and took a bite as a large crowd documented the moment with their phones.

“I respect Maurizio, but it’s art performance: Hungry artist,” said Datuna, who was not among the buyers.

The piece became such a focus of gawking that the gallery removed it Sunday for the final day to encourage viewers to see the rest of the art fair.

The Miami couple — whose purchase included a “certificate of authenticity” along with the banana and the piece of tape — said they plan to loan and later gift the work to an unspecified art institution in hopes of attracting new generations to the museum.

They plan to throw out old bananas when appropriate.

“Yes ... the banana itself will need to be replaced,” they said.

The couple compared the artwork to Andy Warhol’s now iconic “Campbell’s Soup Cans,” which said was initially “met with mockery.”

Critics reasoned they could easily recreate the pricey art following a quick trip to the grocery store, but the gallery said in a statement that certificates of authenticity are crucial in conceptual art.

Without one, “a piece of conceptual artwork is nothing more than its material representation.”

16 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

PSC Rocks into Christmas Noi Emmerson and Ingakarat Chaimongkon present a gift of appreciation to Rev. Fr. Michael Weera Phangrak, Director of Pattaya Orphanage.

VP Tim Knight smiles as President Peter Malhotra hugging a 2020 PSC calendar greets the members and guests, also thanking Tim for organizing such a spectacular event.

Tim Knight, PSC Vice President

Santa Claus a.k.a. Rick Bevington gives a Christmas present to a little child.

Bernie Tuppin is thrilled to see his dear friends Sopin Tappajug MD of Diana Garden Resort, Praichit Jetapai, President of YWCA BangkokPattaya and Nittaya Patimasongkroh former president of the YWCA.

On Wednesday 11th December almost 300 members and guests were at the Asia Pacific Hotel (Formally Town-in-Town) for the 2019 Christmas party.

The doors were open at 6 pm and all were welcomed

by PSC staff and Santa (Rick Bevington). The start was delayed due to a major traffic problem in Pattaya Klang.

The proceedings were opened

by MC Nigel Cannon who welcomed all with a special mention of the Executive Committee members and Rick Bevington – who is the Bikes for Tykes member.

Nigel introduced PSC President Peter Malhotra who outlined the history of PSC and its objectives.

It was then time to welcome some 40 children; tots to seniors, from the Pattaya Orphanage dressed for

Christmas. They sang - in English - a number of Christmas songs. Following the final “We wish you a Merry Christmas” they were given a rousing applause, and a presentation was made to Father Michael in appreciation.

Buffet time and Asia Pacific produced an excellent array of food catering for all tastes – with some gong back for seconds!

Before introducing the evening’s entertainment, many local Golf Clubs had kindly donated a number of golf related items and Vice President Tim Knight presented them to the lucky door winners.

With all having enjoyed the food and beverage, it was time to rock Nigel introduced the popular Soulmates Duo, Helmet and CJ, who sang and played well known music for 2 1/2 hours with many on the floor dancing.

Senior Advisor Nigel Cannon introduces the lovely children from the Pattaya Orphanage.

John Player is all smiles as he presents a raffle prize to this charming girl.

Whilst Helmet and CJ took a well earned break it was raffle draw time. Nigel called the numbers, Tim withdrew the tickets and Treasurer John Player presented the prizes. One lucky winner took home the major prize of a television kindly donated

by Parichat Golf Club.

Back to Helmet and CJ and for many to dance the night away until last orders at 1130.

The Executive Committee expressed their appreciation

This year’s PSC Christmas Party was one of the best ever.

to the management and staff of Asia Pacific for their outstanding contribution to ensure a successful evening.

Vice President Tim Knight thanked Nigel for acting as MC and expressed appreciation to his sub-committee, John Player, Noi Emmerson, Stan Rees, David Smith and Jack Mosely.

Special thanks go to PSC Office Manager Ing and the staff for their help and advice.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 17

PATTAYA MAIL

Seven Seas Côte d’Azur rolls out the Red Carpet It was another remarkable day for the condominium business in Pattaya when on Saturday 14 December, the Universal Group proclaimed the successful completion of the Seven Seas Côte d’Azur project.

Early in the day, Brahmin monks chanted as MD Rajesh Punjabi, CEO Sonia Punjabi together with Directors Michael Polak (Director) and Kamala Kumpu Na Ayuthaya performed a religious ceremony to sanctify and install the sacred statue of Lord Brahma, creator of the universe on the holy altar.

Guests and the media were given an exclusive tour of the expansive 1.5 billion baht property which features 1,308 units in 6 luxury condo buildings on 24,800 sqm (15.5 rai) of land.

The evening reception was a ‘Red Carpet’ affair.

Guests were welcomed and walked on a bright crimson

Sonia Punjabi sprinkles flower petals on the revered statue of Lord Brahma during the religious rites.

carpet to the reception area where they enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and entertainment.

The proceedings were hosted by actress, singer and supermodel Pancake Khemanit and a mini-concert was held by talented singer Yingyong Yotbuangam.

Raj Punjabi, MD of the Universal Group, introduced his company by saying,

“Universal Group is a multinational company with a strong position in several business sectors around the world. Our core businesses include manufacturing, international project development, import & export, and property management. We stepped into Thailand’s property market in 2012 with one of the biggest themed condominium

Pairat Traisupachote, mayor of Huay Yai Municipality presents a bouquet to Sonia Punjabi. Looking on are Mona Punjabi, Michael Polak, Kamala Kumpu Na Ayuthaya, Rajesh Punjabi and Niwat Lamunpandh.

MD Rajesh Punjabi (right), CEO Sonia Punjabi (2nd right) together with Directors Michael Polak and Kamala Kumpu Na Ayuthaya perform a religious ceremony to sanctify and install the sacred statue of Lord Brahma, creator of the universe on the holy altar.

projects in Pattaya, the Seven Seas Condo Resort Jomtien.

“After the resounding success of the first project, we launched two more projects here – Seven Seas Côte d’Azur and Seven Seas Le Carnival.”

Asked where they got the concept of Côte d’Azur, Michael Polak, the director said, “One of the most beautiful places I have ever visited is the French Riviera.

The architecture and atmosphere there are simply breath-taking. We wanted to bring that same carefree vibe and French experience to Pattaya which is what led to the birth of Seven Seas Côte d’Azur.”

Sonia Punjabi, the effervescent and charming CEO added, “Not everyone can afford to buy a house in Cannes, Monaco or Marseille, as those types of places are for the top 1% rich and famous of the world. But you don’t need to be a millionaire to

experience luxury Mediterranean living right here in Pattaya at Seven Seas Côte D’Azur.

“We have 6 low rise buildings that provide a true South of France flavour; i.e., Nice, Cannes, Monaco, Marseilles, Monte Carlo and Montpelier.

“From marinas and glamorous yachts to boulevard style shopping and stylish promenades, we have it all!

Not to forget - amazing restaurants and cafes, an arcade style games room, a

fully equipped gym and a peaceful library is also located on the property.”

Sonia concluded by saying, “The project is now complete and handovers will start in January 2020 when the new owners can move in. We are now focusing on our 3rd project – Seven Seas Le Carnival, a stunning condominium project with resort style pools, a rich mix of indoor and outdoor amenities, and iconic lifestyle offerings all year round.”

Pancake Khemanit and Yingyong Yotbuangam entertain the guests with song and music.

Hundreds of guests and clients attended the launch party.

18 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

HHN thanks supporters with Christmas party

(From left) Pirun Noyimjai, Marc Pulles, Renee de Vaans, Radchada Chomjinda, Jan de Vaans and Siromet Akjrapongpanich.

Gerrit and Anselma Niehaus the hotel owners and gracious hosts.

Elfi Seitz The Thai Garden Resort hosted the annual Christmas parties for sponsors of the Human Help Network Thailand.

Owner Gerrit Niehaus

welcomed guests to the Dec. 11 bash with HHN Director Radchada Chomjinda.

German supporter Reiner Calmund opened the event with a speech praising Radchada as the “Angel of Pattaya” for her fantastic

Very good friends: Gerrit Niehaus and Radchada Chomjinda.

work. He also thanked all the guests by name.

Radchada stood next to express her gratitude for the benefactors’ generosity, singling out Ewald Dietrich the founder the Thai branch of

the German-based charity.

The almost 20 guests then enjoyed a three-course dinner with a live musical trio moving around the room for a night that was about gratitude.

Radchada Chomjinda thanks all guests for their continuous support.

Reiner “Calli” Calmund presents his speech.

(From left) Radchada Chomjinda with Princess Iris and Hans Günther Müller.

Centara Grand Mirage lights up Christmas for charity Jetsada Homklin

Nareethip School’s Christmas Ballet performance is a magnificent sight to behold.

The Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort kicked off the holiday season with the lighting of its giant 7.5 meter Christmas tree.

Pattaya mayoral advisor Rattanachai Sutidechanai and Denis Thouvard, Area General Manager of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, flipped the switch on the lights Dec. 6 with Pattaya Orphanage Director Rev. Weera Pangrak.

Guests including top police officials and community leaders enjoyed Christmas carols such by kids from the orphanage, and violin and ballet performances by from students at Bangkok Dance Little children dressed in their bright red Santa suites join the older children as they get ready to sing Christmas Carols.

(L to R) Denis Thouvard, Area General Manager of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, Pattaya mayoral advisor Rattanachai Sutidechanai, Praichit Jetapai, President of YWCA Association Bangkok-Pattaya, Komkrit Prasitnarit, advisor to the Pattaya City Tourism and Culture Council, Pol. Lt. Col. Kamol Apkarut, Deputy Superintendent of Pattaya Police Station, and Rev. Fr. Michael Weera Phangrak, Director of Pattaya Orphanage join hands to flip the switch and turn on the Christmas tree lights.

Academy’s Nareethip School branch in Pattaya.

Now in its 10th year, the Centara Grand Mirage’s

Christmas celebration raises money for charity through sales of framed photos with Santa Claus, tree ornaments

and holiday cookies. Sales run through Jan. 6 with all income going to the Pattaya Orphanage.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

PATTAYA MAIL

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 19

Christmas comes early for Camillian Centre children Jesters Care for Kids at Camillian

Each child is allocated 1000 baht and is free to spend on whatever they want.

Sunday, 15th December this year marked a significant day in the lives of the children at Camillian Centre, a day they all look forward to as Christmas approaches.

These children, currently 36 in all from toddlers to teens, some with HIV, some from HIV infected parents, and others abandoned by their family, are cared for at Camillian Centre in Rayong.

What makes this day so special for them? Well, on this day as has been for the past 12 years, the Jesters have taken them Christmas shopping, and for this one special day each year, they have the opportunity to be in charge. Each child is allocated 1000 baht and is free to spend on whatever they want. They do have supervision to help with Erle, Bernie and Woody try to help direct shopping cart traffic during the annual Camillian Centre children’s Christmas shopping spree.

Sunday, 15th December this year marked a significant day in the lives of the children at Camillian Centre.

pricing, sizes, etc., but basically the choice is theirs.

One would think that the candy counter would be the busiest but surprisingly this sector was completely overlooked. Most popular was clothing, shoes, games, drawing books and small gifts to be exchanged with their friends on Christmas Day. The Jesters Care for Kids would like to thank Father Joey (from Camillian Centre) and his staff for organizing

the event and shepherding the children; the staff at Rayong Big C for their patience and also the generous contribution of free goods and entertainment for the children; and for the

Farmer’s family for contributing funds towards for the shopping spree too.

To these children, we wish a bright future and look forward to next year when we can do it all over again.

Classic Car Friends donate 66,000 baht to HHN

Pattaya’s Classic Car Friends presented 66,000 baht from their first Christmas party to the Human Help Network Foundation Thailand.

Children sing Christmas Carols for their honored guests.

Jetsada Homklin Pattaya’s Classic Car Friends presented 66,000 baht from their first Christmas party to the Human Help Network Thailand.

Club President Jo Klemm, Uboljit Thumchob, marketing manager for the Rivera Group, and Jan Abbink of Rotary District 3340 presented

the donation to HHN Director Radchada Chomjinda at the foundation’s Drop-In Center Dec. 17.

Radchada said the funds would be used for educational programs and a new building for the ASEAN Education Center.

The Dec. 7 party and show featured more than a dozen classic cars with guests

posing with them for photos while HHN sold handmade crafts, apparel and toys made by its children to raise funds for the foundation.

Classic Cars Club President Jo Klemm, Uboljit Thumchob, marketing manager for the Rivera Group, and Jan Abbink of Rotary District 3340 receive thank you garlands from an appreciative group of children.

20 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Understanding Thailand and why it has changed so much so quickly Just in case you hadn’t noticed, Thais and Westerners think differently. Dr Ren Lexander, PhD, outlined some of the key reasons for this in a talk he gave on the 8th December at the Pattaya City Expats Club meeting. A key part of his talk focused on the legacy of religious beliefs in the West and in Thailand.

Even if you are an atheist, your belief system about what makes right and moral action has been influenced by the West’s Judaic-Christian heritage. Much of this is enshrined in the Ten Commandments. These are very black and white: thou shalt/ thou shalt not. For instance, ‘Thou shalt not commit adultery’. And ‘Thou shalt not bear false witness’ — which is usually interpreted as “Thou Shalt Not Lie’.

By stark contrast, Thailand is a Theravedic Buddhist country and follows Buddha’s Eight-fold Path: Right Understanding, Right Thought, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration. This is much greyer in concept. What is ‘Right Speech’? Perhaps it is telling people what they want to hear rather than what is strictly speaking the truth.

By way of comparison, Dr Lexander asked what a husband in the West might say if his wife asks him ‘Does

this dress make me look fat?’

So, Thais will tend more towards a greyer version of the truth than Westerners do. Dr Lexander used the example of: If a Thai woman has a sick buffalo upcountry and bending the truth will get her money to look after the poor sick buffalo the Thai might consider that bending of the truth ‘Right Speech’.

There is no Buddhist commandment ‘Thou shalt not commit adultery.’ Dr Lexander showed a graph from a survey which indicated that Thailand has the highest rate of adultery in the world. The figures show that adultery/affairs run at 56% in Thailand. 43% in France. 36% in the UK. Something to remember is, Thais do not normally do mental arithmetic. Which makes it difficult to assess progress or custom. For example, a regular customer who spends a steady amount every day can be overlooked for a much bigger spender who comes in only once.

This means there is little realization that the expat regular customer can often be of more support to local businesses than tourists who quickly come and quickly go.

Marriage, again there is an important difference. In the West, the father ceremonially gives the bride, his daughter, to the man she is marrying. Therefore, she is

Dr. Ren Lexander, PhD, gives a very interesting talk about the need to understand the differences between Western beliefs and Thai beliefs as well as explaining why Thailand has changed so much in such a short period of time.

in effect given away to the husband as they become one. With Thai ceremonies, this does not happen. Their focus is not as much on romantic love or courtly romance but on long-term partnership and also support of their original family.

Karma plays a large part in Thai thinking. Thais believe that the result of any action

they take is not just dependent on the action NOW but also the weight of karma good or bad - from the past.

This can surface in a different attitude towards the dangers of driving. Careless actions do not necessarily result in disasters. More likely they believe that accidents and such come from Karma already due. When

you have good Karma accrued; you are safe. Thais believe that the best way to make good - ‘Tam Bun’ - is to give support to monks.

Dr Lexander explained that Thais are very hierarchical in their thinking and this too is a result of their belief in karma. People with good karma will end up higher up the hierarchy. Thais believe that, theoretically, every person in the country could be placed in a hierarchy from the top (King/monks) to the bottom. But they don’t necessarily agree about where in the hierarchy they sit.

The body too is judged the same way, head is high, feet are low. So do not touch your girlfriends’ or boyfriends’ head in public or point with your feet. And, if a baht note is blowing away along the street, do not stamp on it to halt its escape... As all banknotes bear the image of the king’s head and putting your disgusting feet on the image of the king is a grievous insult.

Those who have been coming to Thailand for any length of time have witnessed massive and sudden changes in Thailand. One of the factors that Dr Lexander focused on as driving all this change was a massive plummet in the birthrate.

In 1970 it was usual to have nearly 6 children per woman, in 1980 it was 3.39,

in 1995 is was 1.87, and in 2016 it was 1.44 about the same as Japan. Imagine that, in 1995, the birthrate had still been at 3.39 children per family. There would right now be twice as many 24 year olds in Thailand. Consider the implications of this for the character of Thailand and Pattaya in particular.

The Thai government is now concerned that the birthrate is below the replacement rate and are considering steps to encourage women to have more children. One of the results off this massive plunge in the birthrate has been an expansion in the waistlines of Thai children and adults. There is simply more food to go around each family — for children and adults.

Dr. Lexander’s talk was well received as at the end there were many questions and comments from the audience. To view a video of Dr Lexander’s talk, visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=DK1wvT9URck&t=66s.

After the presentation, the MC brought everyone up to date on the upcoming club events and others of interest. This was followed by the Open Forum where questions are asked and answered about Expat living in Thailand, especially Pattaya.

For more information about the PCEC, visit their website at: www.pcec.club.

Pattaya Players entertain PCEC with Cinderella and the Velvet Slipper It has started to be something of a tradition that the Pattaya City Expats Club holiday season meetings are kicked off with a pantomime performance by Pattaya Players. This year, at the December 15 meeting, Club Members were treated to a showing of Pattaya Players’ Christmas Pantomime “Cinderella and the Velvet Slipper” by Peter Nutall, directed by Chris Harman.

As the performance got underway it was obvious to

all that the cast were well developed in their characters and were having fun.

Club members from the UK were familiar with the pantomime format and had no problem joining in with the audience participation with ‘boos’ and ‘hisses’ to the villains, “cheers” for the heroes, saying ‘he’s behind you’ when asked to point out a hidden character, and joining in an argument between characters with an “oh yes it is” or “oh no it

MC Bob Smith, who is also a member of Pattaya Players, presents the PCEC’s Certificate of Appreciation to the Pattaya Players’ cast for their very entertaining pantomime. From left to right, Gary Hougen (Fiddle), Wendy Khan (The Witch), Andrew Murphy (The King), Chris Harman (Ugly Sister and also the Director), MC Bob Smith, Doug Campbell (Ugly Sister), Aom Konchan (Buttons and ballerina), Charles Elwin (Prince Charming), Mara Swankey (Dandini), and Caidie Brennan (Cinderella).

Cinderella, played by Caidie Brennan, appears in this scene with her two very ugly sisters, played

by Chris Harman and Doug Campbell.

isn’t.” While other members of the audience, at first, were slow to respond, they eventually got the hang of it and joined in.

The traditional main characters, Cinderella played by Caidie Brennan, Dandini (Cinderella’s love interest)

played by Mara Swankey and Buttons (Cinderella’s friend) played by Aom Konchan, all worked well together and their singing of the duet with Aom performing a ballet alongside them was a highlight for many in the audience.

Everyone was amazed to learn that that it was the first time on stage for Caidie (Cinderella) and that she was only 11 years old. Also, that Aom who played Buttons was only a few years older but had been performing with Pattaya Players for

3 years. It is very commendable that this group encourages young talent (Expat and Thai) and helps them develop their self-confidence and their craft as actors.

The comedy characters the Witch (played by Wendy Khan), Prince Charming (played by Charles Elwin), The King (played by Andrew Murphy), Fiddle the Town Clerk (played by Gary Hougen) and the two Ugly Sisters (played by Chris Harman and Doug Campbell) were great fun and provided real humour and enjoyment for all present. The cast were ably backed up by their sound effects men, John Khan and Ray Lightbown who provided spooky music and other offstage effects.

After the performance, the MC brought everyone up to date on the upcoming club events and others of interest.

This was followed by the Open Forum where questions are asked and answered about Expat living in Thailand, especially Pattaya. For more information about the PCEC, visit their website at: www.pcec.club.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Businesses for Sale or Rent Bop02/14-42/ Warehouse on Huay Yai Road, 4 big halls on 1.5 Rai (2,400sqm), 8 toilets, air-condition; perfect for all kind of business.

20,000,000 THB(331) GO PROPERTY THAILAND; 093- 161 5995; www. gopropertythailand.com

Property for Rent Houses, Villas Prb/42-4/ For Rent 10,900 baht per month, 2 bedroom, 2bath, 3 A/C Furnished, Pool, Clean Beautiful, Soi 53 Nern Plabwan at Soi 45 Tel: 084 351 8254 Prb06/38-42/ TOWNHOUSE, Off Soi Khaotalo, Like new, quiet, safe, two bedroom, one bathroom, patio, carport, Thai kitchen,

PATTAYA MAIL

air-conditioned, FULLY FURNUSHED, Guarded Subdivision, Communal Pool, One Year Lease Minimum, B9,500. Monthly, B19,000. Security Deposit.

English, 087-805-5276

Condominiums Prc05/40-2/ 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 Prc04/36-7/ Rent 19,000 THB/Month long-term – Sea-front condo with infinity pool, tennis – Banglamung – 204sqm, 2bed, 2-bath, See pictures at: w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / thailand.bayview, T: 082 122

4335 – mail: bay.view@ live.com Prc01/25-42/ You like to rent a clean and nice condo short time or long term? We have City-Condos from 5,000 THB/monthly, directly located at the “10-Baht-TaxiRoute” or close to the beach with stunning sea views from 9,500 THB/monthly.

We get daily new properties for rent. Please call us. We have the right one for you.

GO PROPERTYTHAILAND; call Mr. Jo 093- 161 5995 Prc/39 -1/Beautiful large 1 bed 1 bath condo 72 sqm near Jomtien beach full quality furniture with a view. close to restaurants and shops. Great location rent 12,000 B PM. Sale 1.8 m.

Absolute bargain. 083 102 9293 Prc/39 -1/Jomtien Beach Condominium for Rent, Studio 29 – 34 s.q.m, Special Prices; start from 5,000 – 8,000 baht per month.

(One year contract), Tel: 095

187 1311 (English & Thai) or e-mail: ploypailin.fu@ gmail.com (by owner) Prc/41-42/Markland Condo Available for 2 to 3 months (Dec-Feb) Beach Road, a great view, studio, 23rd floor, furn, cable, pool, gym 17,000 bath/month Tel: 086 677 8446 Prc/42-2/ Viewtalay Residence 1 condo Jomtien Soi 5 near Revenue Department ALL BRAND NEW furniture for rent & sale Swimming pool view , gym, second floor 40 Sqm. rent 13,800 sale 2.9 M. 064-4642289, 095-169-2456

Property for Sale Condominiums Psc111/36-5/ Sale 4.9M THB – Sea-front condo with infinity pool, tennis – Banglamung – 204sqm, 2-bed, 2bath - Foreign owned. See pictures at: www.facebook .com/thailand.bayview, T: 082 122 4335 – mail: bay.view@live.com Psc110/36-5/ Condo for Sale: The Trust Resident Central Pattaya Fully furnished, 1,100,000 Baht (free tax) Tel: 086 633 2948 Psc/38-42/Beachfront Condo at Bangsaray Condominium: 150sqm, 2-bedrooms, 2-bathrooms, 300m from beach, only 137units in 20 rai of green landscaped surroundings in an exclusive residence. Excellent decoration, fully furnished, TV-LCD 50". Hot Sale 7.9 mil.

4x,xxx baht/sqm. 0813358102 (owner), for photos: pitipity@hotmail.com, Line: piti.t Psc106/28-42/ CETUS CONDO, high-floor, stunning sea- and city views, 54sqm, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, living room, kitchen, terrace, condition like new, “foreign owned”, luxury furnished, 7,000,000 THB; www.GoPropertyThailand.com; 093- 151 5995 Psc105/28-42/ THE BASE Condo; high-floor, sea- and city views, 30sqm, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, living room, kitchen, terrace, condition like new, “foreign owned”, fully furnished, 3,650,000 THB; www.

GoPropertyThailand.com; 093- 151 5995 Psc104/28-42/ THE PEAK TOWER; high-floor, seaand city views, 63sqm, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, living room, kitchen, terrace, condition new, “foreign

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 21

owned”, not furnished, 5,900,000 THB; www.

GoPropertyThailand.com; 093- 151 5995 Psc103/28-42/ DUSIT GRAND VIEW; sea views, 34sqm, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, living room, kitchen, terrace, condition like new, “foreign owned”, quality furnished, 3,000,000 THB; www.GoPropertyThailand.com; 093- 151 5995 Psc102/28-42/ BAAN PLAI HAAD NAKLUA beachfront; high-floor, sea- and city views, 41sqm, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, living room, kitchen, terrace, condition like new, “foreign owned”, luxury furnished, 5,500,000 THB; www.

GoPropertyThailand.com; 093- 151 5995 Psc101/28-42/ JOMTIEN BEACH RESIDENT; nice garden views, 52sqm, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, living room, kitchen, terrace, condition like new, “foreign owned”, design furnished, 2,900,000 THB; www.

GoPropertyThailand.com; 093- 151 5995 Psc100/28-42/ VIEWTALAY 3 beachfront, sea views, 52sqm, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, living room, kitchen, terrace, condition like new, “foreign owned”, design furnished, 2,700,000 THB; www.GoPropertyThailand.com; 093- 151 5995

Psc/41-42/Condo for Sale: 80 sqm Sea view, 2.8 million baht (Negotiable).Tel: 086349-5061 Psc/41-42/Condo for Sale: 100 sqm, swimming pool, security, 3.5 million baht (Negotiable). Pratamnak beach. Tel: 086-349-5061

Land for Sale P04/34-3/ LAND FOR SALE: Jomtien Beach Road Soi 9, 551sq-wah. Contact: IG Missk_9 P01/14-42/ 1,150sqm land for sale in the town of Bang Saray, (288sqw), 1 minute from the beach, can build up to 7 floors. 27,000,000 THB (329) GO PROPERTY THAILAND; 093- 161 5995; www. gopropertythailand.com

Vehicles for Sale/Rent Vs/38-42/Nissan Navara Calibri NP300 double-cab pickup truck, 2018, 6 gear manual, only 3,000 km, brand new, perfect condition, for sale 576,000 Baht, phone or SMS (0)8 5275 7711.

Service Provided Sp40-2/Painting, Electric, Mosaics and Renovate.

Small job and big job.0877834015 Pachern

22 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

MX5 revisited

The electric honeymoon is over? Not yet!

Beijing (AP) — China’s leaders are promoting electric cars to help transform the country into a creator of profitable technologies, but sales are stalling.

That is squeezing automakers that are spending heavily on development as regulators shift the burden to them by imposing mandatory sales quotas. The wrenching transition is revealing the difficulty of luring mainstream buyers to a fledgling, expensive technology.

An industry shakeout lies ahead as novice Chinese producers that rushed into the market are forced to merge or close. Development costs are so high that global competitors including Volkswagen and Ford are teaming up to split the burden.

In November, purchases of electric and gasoline-electric hybrid SUVs and sedans tumbled 43.7 percent from a year earlier to 95,000, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers. Sales for the first 11 months of the year were only up 1.3 percent at just over 1 million vehicles.

China accounts for half of electric vehicle sales worldwide, making any change in its market critical for the global industry.

In China, about 70 percent of the 1.2 million electric or gasoline-electric hybrid models sold over the past year went to government and company fleets. Almost 500,000 bought by consumers were in cities that offer incentives such as being exempt from registration fees

or license plate waiting lists.

Industry analysts say one reason for the slump is that anyone who wanted an electric rushed to buy it before subsidies ended. Sales spiked 85 percent in April over a year earlier.

Under the new system, automakers must earn credits for selling electrics or buy them from competitors that exceed their quota.

State-owned utilities and other companies have blanketed China with charging points. The country’s biggest ride-hailing service, Didi Chuxing, says it is the biggest global operator of electric vehicles, with more than 600,000 in its fleet. A rival service launched by automaker Geely, called Cao Cao, says its entire 30,000-vehicle fleet in 30 cities is electric.

The dogs that ate cars I had a good mate called Alan. Came from the UK and was a serious bike rider. The sort of serious bike rider who goes to the Isle Of Man every year, rain, hail or snow, and you can be guaranteed to get at least two of those options. Alan died a couple of years ago, and even had his ashes spread on his favorite corner of the course.

Alan was a good bloke, though a little over the top with dogs.

He had two, one called ‘Needle Nose’ which was supposedly a Doberman, and the other a giant mutt of a dog, a Rottweiler. Collectively, I reckon they had about as much brain power as my kitchen tap, but then I’m not really a dog guy.

One day I found him standing knee-deep in dog as usual, but peering at the rear bumper of his Honda Jazz. Or I should say, where the dogs had eaten the rear bumper of his Honda Jazz. I kid you not, the damn dogs

My daily driver in Australia in the 80s was a blood red Mazda MX5. Number plate was BNE 666, so it was known as the red devil of Brisbane. I clocked up 100K in that car and it proved itself to be very reliable. In fact, when I think about it, I cannot remember it ever letting me down. In my memory, it was one of my favorite cars of two decades ago.

By a strange series of coincidences, I found an acquaintance here in Pattaya with a red Mazda MX5 of the same vintage. Nostalgia got the better of me and I asked for first refusal, if he ever sold it.

This week, the owner contacted me to say he was going overseas for a while.

Would I like to use his 17 year old MX5 while he was away? I ask you, is the Pope a Catholic?

So yesterday a blood red Mazda MX5 was dropped off at the hospital for me, immediately transporting me back to Brisbane of 20 years previously in my mind.

With a smile that would have taken a team of undertakers two weeks to remove from my face, I drove to the children’s school to run them home.

The first item of note was the MX5 was a very popular car with young teenage

Mazda MX5.

boys. The second item of note was my daughter’s flat refusal to get in to the car for the ride home, which with MX5 being a two seater would mean that either she sat on her brother’s knee or he sat on hers. As far as I was concerned, a little squeeziness was a small price to pay for the opportunity to time travel back 17 years. She did not share my enthusiasm.

With Miss getting a lift in more plebian transport, my 14 year old son and I headed to the Dark Side via Highway 7. My son is not a car person but he was enjoying the MX5 as we cruised through the afternoon’s traffic.

What became apparent was that the MX5 is so small compared to the ubiquitous pick-ups and towering busses congesting our roads that this gives a greater

impression of speed. With our red car we were in Michael Schumacher’s Ferrari. Invincible.

My son became interested in the workings of the MX5, though calling the speedometer the “fast meter” is cringe-worthy. He was amazed at the number of dials, rather than bells, lights or warning whistles. And the gear lever connected to the manual gearbox he found intriguing. Millennials! They may be able to confound me with drop down menus, key strokes and Snapdragon, but I know how to shift gear and what the oil pressure gauge is there for.

What a short drive in the MX5 did for me, was to make driving a physical and mental pleasure again. I don’t know what I am going to do when the owner comes back!

Looking for a classic? had eaten the left side of the bumper where it (used to) join on to the body, the metal of which now also had canine dental records.

You see, this was not their first attempt at eating cars.

Previous attempts included one car tyre, while still attached to the vehicle, and another episode where they ate the seat and the electrics and fuel injection hoses off his motorcycle. Puts a new complexion on the term “omnivore” doesn’t it?

Now that tale does have some importance in this week’s column, because have you noticed just how today’s bumper bars just fall off the vehicles they are supposed to protect from minor bumps? Come on, that’s why they were called “bumper bars” in the first place. So, how many cars have you seen recently with tape holding the bumper bar in position, both front and rear bars? Lots, is the answer.

Of course, that is referring to new or nearly new cars.

Old cars had two dumb irons out the front, attached to which was something about the size of a piece of railway line, but it was chromed.

It was bolted in place and it took three days soaking in oil before you could get the nuts to move. Those were real “bumper bars” made of steel, none of this newfangled plastic stuff.

And when you think about it, just how much use is the thermoformed plastic as a bumper? About as useful as a hip pocket in a swim suit. The slightest “bump” when parking, and the retaining clips all fly off and the so-called “bumper” falls on the ground. In theory, if you could get some new clips, you should be able to affix said bumper back on the car, but like all good theories, they don’t always work in practice. New clips as a single item do not exist.

They come with a new bumper, they tell me. And we were all led to believe that the new bumpers would be so much cheaper than repairing the old metal ones, with all that beating and rechroming. However, I must say that a new one is definitely quicker to replace – provided the clips came with it.

Sometimes Thailand isn’t the best place (sigh). I have been very lucky to receive several issues of “The Automobile” magazine from an enthusiast here. The publisher is Douglas Blain, a man who owns a Pegaso Z102. He is a true enthusiast.

And it is apparent that there are many true enthusiasts in the UK. The magazine has adverts offering classics, true classics, and my 20 year old Daihatsu Mira doesn’t quite make the cut.

A one page advert from the Tom Hardman company has: 1926 Austin 7 Burghley 1926 Humber 12/25 1927 Alvis 12/50 1929Lancia Lambda 1932 Wolseley Hornet 1933 Alvis Firefly 1934 Lagonda Rapier Le Mans 1935 Riley Imp 1935 Riley Falcon 1935MGBellevueMonoposto These ranged in price between GBP 21,000 to GBP 78,000, and there are pages and pages of advertisers, all

1932 Wolseley Hornet.

with cars around 80 years of age. Will a Toyota Fortuna ever become a collectors’ item? I think not, even if you put one in a hermetically sealed chamber to be opened in 2095 and leave it to your grandchildren in your will. It would never be advertised like the 1934 Lagonda as being “perfect for European tours with its ample luggage space. A very usable Lagonda Rapier with

an extremely attractive price.” And the extremely attractive price? Try GBP 57,000. That’s around three million Thai baht.

We will never see anything like that in Thailand. The most “exotic” car for sale in the Pattaya Mail recently was a 2002 BMW 525i.

And with the latest legislation banning the import of cars, perhaps you should dry store your Fortuner.

How to super tune your Tesla The amazing Elon Musk said technological advances were made to ensure a 10 percent improvement to performance to get the sub-3 second acceleration times.

“Instead of a standard fuse that just melts past a certain amperage, requiring a big gap between the normal operating current and max current, we developed

a fuse with its own electronics and a tiny lithium-ion battery,” he said. “It constantly monitors current at the millisecond level and is pyro-actuated to cut power with extreme precision and certainty.

“That was combined with upgrading the main pack contactor to use Inconel (a high temperature spacegrade super-alloy) instead

of steel, so that it remains springy under the heat of heavy current. The net result is that we can safely increase the max pack output from 1300 to 1500 Amps.”

So now you know. Obviously if you are having problems with your Tesla, you take it to the Tuk-Com electronic counters, and not your average auto workshop!

VOL. XXVII No. 42

PATTAYA MAIL

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 23

Green for Griffith but Ace for Smith PSC Pattaya Links Golf Society

Monday Dec. 16 Pleasant Valley Stableford With the days warming up so are the golfers with the Pattaya Links Golf Society, as eight groups visited Pleasant Valley on Monday for a Stableford competition in two flights with the cut set at sixteen and under.

The busy course was well presented with grassed fairways allowing “run” and greens a little quicker than normal here. The Greenkeeper had obviously had a bad night and he took revenge with some tough pin placings, many on slopes, or at the top of slopes and tucked behind bunkers. Haway man, it’s a Monday!

Welcoming back some old friends, the group got away on time and both flights remained competitive in the fresh breeze.

In the top flight, three golfers shared the honours and countback placed scratch golfer Ritchie Fearby in third on 35 points. Phil Davies took second and compatriot Rana Gurnam took the top

B flight winner Keith Griffith with Mikael Lindberg (L) and Iain Jones (R).

place on the podium with 35 points also.

In the second flight, third place went to Darren Beavers with 34 points, with lady golfer Helene Lindberg making her mark again with a second place finish on 35. The flight winner and Green Jacket wearer was Keith Griffith with 41 very sound points.

The highlight of the day, however, was Colin Smith’s “ace” on the island hole, number eight. His majestic six iron unerringly ducked into the hole to give him his fourth personal hole-in-one and the fifth for PLGS this year.

Consolation best nine awards went to Tommy Marshall (20 points front nine) and Len Jones (20 points back nine) whilst near-pins were won

by Keith Griffith (5), Colin Smith (8), Bill Copeland (15) and Mike Firkin (17).

A Flight (0-16) 1st Place – Rana Gurnam (12) - 35 pts c/back 2nd Place – Phil Davies (13) - 35 pts c/back 3rd Place – Richard Fearby (0) - 35pts B Flight (17+) 1st Place – Keith Griffith (17) - 41 pts 2nd Place – Helene Lindberg

(21) - 35 pts 3rd Place – Darren Beavers (17) - 34 pts At the nether end of the final table was the returning Iain Jones and his low score took the “wig’ whilst Michael Lindberg’s dismal back nine gave him his first “silly hat” since his return last week.

The presentation ended with the time honoured tradition of the hole-in-one winner buying drinks all round on another memorable day for the Pattaya Links Golf Society.

49 points easy win for Thorsten Friday Dec.20 Silky Oak - Stableford Are we all golfed out? Are there too many Xmas parties to attend? Is it the venue? Whatever the answer, our smallest field for many weeks, 18 players, signed up for a rare outing to Silky Oak. The course, as with most, is drying out with brownish fairways and rough. Most of the greens were fluffy and bumpy, therefore quite slow.

David McKey reckons that

Congratulations to Holein-One winner Colin Smith.

suited him and his 40 points proved it.

Play started as scheduled and, with three three-balls out front, the round was completed in good time.

Reminiscent of Bangpakong, ten of the eighteen players played to handicap or better, and the one who played far and beyond handicap was Thorsten Jodehl.

Playing his first game this trip, Thorsten recorded, what we think, is the highest single Stableford point

score at Pattaya Links Golf Society of 49 points. Yes, 49 points, and obviously winning the one flight and getting to wear the Green Jacket for his second time. His previous win was at Bangpakong in February 2018, scoring 43 points.

Another excellent score from the very much in-form George Mueller put him in second place with 43 points.

John Harrison’s game is consistent and he slipped into third place with 41 points.

Not many golf courses have five Par 3s but Silky Oak does and we played all five of them.

Near Pins: Thorsten Jodehl (3), John Harrison (6), Ron Matthews (8), George Mueller (14), Nigel Harrison (16).

1st Place – Thorsten Jodehl (18) – 49 pts 2nd Place - George Mueller (14) – 43 pts 3rd Place - John Harrison (17) – 41 pts Best Front Nine (non-winners) – Steve Moxey – 24 pts Best Back Nine (non-winners) - Michael Wright – 21 pts c/back.

Nat beats the boys with a good score on the day PSC Growling Swan Golf played out of Bogey’s Bar & Grill Monday, 16th of December Mt Shadow G.C. Stableford Twelve golfers signed up to play Monday at Mountain Shadow GC. It’s been a long time since we have visited this course as they were upgrading a few of the holes which resulted in golfers playing a few holes more than once. And to be honest it’s the price that got us back here now that it is all finished.

The course was in good condition and was needy of the rest and upgrade it went thru. A good course, generally speaking and priced very well even in the so called High Season.

Twelve golfers allowed us to play only the one division with three placings and all with the Par 3 (near pin) novelties only.

A rush of blood one would say but the golfers decided to play from the blue tees

(L to R) Thursday’s winner Keith (L to R) Wan Mukmal, Keith Buchanan Buchanan with third place getter and Monday’s winner Nat Rukkid.

Glenn Smith.

giving the women playing a good head start. Three placings were filled by two women.

First home was Nat Rukkid returning with 36 points, putting her six shots up on the nearest contender. Second and third went to the countback system to be sorted out. Winning that countback and going into second place was Keith (the comb) Buchanan with a bet-

ter back nine. Losing the countback but finishing third was Wan Mukmal.

Winners from Mt Shadow GC 1st Nat Rukkid (15) 36 pts.

2nd Keith Buchanan (13) 30 pts.

3rd Wan Makmul (23) 30 pts.

Near pins: #5 Steve Younger, #8 Wan Makmul, #15 Still Waiting, and #17 Nat Rukkid.

It was that man Kissy again, between him and Steele game over

Thursday, Dec 19 King’s Naga G.C. Stableford Unfortunately with two late pull outs we had fourteen golfers willing to play Thursday at Kings Naga G.C. With a price package of B1200 covering green fee, cart and caddy.

The course was very dry as are a lot of the courses in the area. It is winter here but there has been a lack of rain.

Other than it being dry the course was the same as always. With the dryness creating plenty of run suiting us high handicappers.

Fourteen golfers allowed us to play only the one division with three placings and all novelties were up for grabs.

Keith Buchanan, never being far from the winners’ circle, paved the way for the day keeping out some big hitters. Keith’s 36 points saw him knock off the top spot for the day’s event.

Second spot went to Denis

Steele one behind the winner and one in front of third & fourth where a countback was needed. Winning the countback with a better back nine was Glenn Smith.

The unlucky fourth went to JC Lhoste, the second time this tour being involved in a countback and losing it.

Unlucky JC. 1st Keith Buchanan (13) 36 pts.

2nd Denis Steele (18) 35 pts.

3rd Glenn Smith (24) 34 pts.

Near pins: 5 Rita Zoebeli, 7 Rita Zoebeli, 12 Keith Buchanan, and 16 Denis Steele.

Longest first putt: 9 Denis Steele and 18 Keith Buchanan.

24 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Anderson & Smith win the week PSC Golf from Siam Country Resort Pattaya Bob Edwards could just keep enough concentration to win with 37 Stableford points. Second was Maurice Copan with 36 Stableford points, beating Peter Mansini on the count back. Greg Jones came fourth with 35 points.

The near were won by Jonathan Pratt, Alan Cassin and Greg Jones.

Wednesday, Dec. 11 Crystal Bay Stableford Three groups went to Crystal Bay and played the A & C course, which was in very good condition with some brown grass on the fairways due to the dry weather. The greens were in good condition. It was a beautiful day with a nice breeze.

We had some good results and it was Ty Anderson who beat Paddy Devereux on the count back with 38 Stableford points. Third was John Feeney, beating Alan Cassin on the countback with 35 Stableford points.

The near to the pins were won by Neil Harvey and Paddy Devereux.

Friday, Dec. 13 Mountain Shadow Stableford It was again a beautiful day, but a little bit warmer than

Thursday, Dec. 19 Plutaluang Stableford Dave Smith & Bob Edwards.

Ty Anderson, Paddy Devereux & John Feeney.

Wednesday. The course was in very good condition and we had another a nice day of golf.

The results were not the same level as before, but it was an exciting end. Three players had 30 Stableford

points. Dave Smith was the best on the countback, beating Paddy Devereux and Bob Edwards.

The near to the pins were earned by Bob Edwards, Willem Lasonder, Paddy Devereux and Alan Wilson.

Tuesday, Dec. 17 Eastern Star Stableford On Tuesday 17th December we went with 4 groups to Eastern Star. We welcomed some guest players, so we had a very good turnout.

The course was in excellent condition with good fairways and greens and was a

pleasure to play. The weather was sunny with a nice breeze.

Everything was in place for good results.

It was an exciting day with all the results very close to each other. Our guest players were playing very well.

Most of us had a strong front nine and a fall back on the back nine. Perhaps the tension or the sun.

The group headed south to play the West and North nines at Plutaluang on Thursday 19th December. The course was in good condition with fast greens, and once again it was a beautiful warm day.

The results were on the same level as Tuesday. Paddy Devereux was the man of the day and won with 38 Stableford points. Second was Bob Edwards, beating Stuart Banks on the count back.

The near pins were won by Jonathan Pratt.

Peter Botswell returns excellent 43 points PSC Bunker Boys Golf Monday, December 16th Bangpra 1st Les Cobban (8) 38 points 2nd Jimmy Carr (17) 38 points 3rd Keith Hemmings (22) 33 points 4th John Hughes (21) 33 points It seems at times some people never learn, on Monday we had another issue with green fees at Bangpra similar to last year where we were being gouged an extra two hundred baht on the price quoted at the time of booking. After much argument, it was finally agreed we could have the agreed price but could not check in till eleven, not the best start to a round, could another boycott be imminent?

The course was in very poor shape, extremely dry and in need of a real drenching. So much leaf litter was strewn across the course it was difficult to find balls even in the middle of the fairways.

The reclusive Les Cobban who must have spent the last few weeks at the driving range returned today and brought his A-game with a score of thirty-eight to take first place on countback from Jimmy Carr who also had his best score for some time.

Another tie for third and fourth place with Keith Hemmings edging out John Hughes on thirty-three.

Keith also edged out Peter Kelly in the fashion stakes

with some very snappy gear.

Near pins went to Murray Greig, Robby Watts, Tony Robbins, and Les Cobban.

Ken Davidson got the booby prize for the most bunkers found, Ken spent so much time in the Lebanese lawns we considered sending out for a bucket and spade.

Wednesday, December 18th Khao Kheow B & C 1st Peter Botswell (18) 43 points 2nd Ken Davidson (24) 41 points 3rd Jimmy Carr (17) 36 points 4th Neil Jones (22) 35 points

Michael Healey winds Division 1 Friday 20th December Eastern Star Stableford There was some rain here yesterday but pick clean and place was not implemented today although there were a few soggy areas approaching the green with an uphill approach. A 13-18 cut today and with 38 points Michael Healey records the best score of the day winning division 1, Ron Lavett is second on 35 and with an 18/16 back nine countback Frank Kelly beats Dennis Scougall after two scores of 33 come in. Two 33’s are in for division 2 and with a 16/15 countback John Carlin beats Eugine Maguire, John Doyle

L to R Dennis Lea, Michal Healey, John Carlin and Bert Mittendorf.

is third on 32 and Tony Thorne is fourth with 31.

Near Pins. Div 1. Brian Keating, Bert Mittendorf and Dennis Scougall.

Div 2. Colin Aspinall. John Carlin, Steve Harris and

Fran Kelly.

Bert Mittendorf birdies the 6th in division 1 with two rollovers from last Friday and in division 2 there are four rollovers to next week here.

has to wonder if his passengers were sleeping during this excursion.

Friday, December 20th Eastern Star

Peter Botswell.

Colin Greig.

Normally this time of year golf courses are in the best condition we see them after monsoon rain and end of year maintenance. However, this year is very different. So little rain fell during the wet season that courses are now parched dry and water catchments empty. Even good courses like Khao Kheow are suffering and with no prospect of rain anytime soon courses will only deteriorate further making it difficult to justify high season pricing when conditions are so poor.

Another hot day Wednesday at Khao Kheow where we had to wait about half an hour to tee off due to the late arrival of another society in front of us. Once we got underway the speed of play was good so in the end no big problem. As the course was so dry there was plenty of run on the fairways which made it play short and almost certainly accounted for some of the excellent scoring.

Top position went to shorttime visitor Peter Botswell

who returned an excellent score of forty-three points with borrowed clubs. Ken Davidson finally did get a cut in his handicap of one and may well receive another if he continues to play like today with forty-one points in second place.

Jimmy Carr also had a good round in third place on thirty-six points and Neil Jones rounded out the scoring in fourth place with thirty-five points. Near pins went to Murray Greig, Peter Kelly, and Peter Botswell.

A special prize for the longest drive went to Jimmy Carr, unfortunately, it was not on the course but on the way to the course. For some reason, Jimmy went to Treasure Hill instead of Khao Kheow and then had to come all the way back. To make matters worse Jimmy got back on Hwy 7 instead of frontage road and couldn’t exit at the Khao Kheow turn off so had to go all the way to Chonburi Hwy before he could make a U-turn and come back. One

1st Colin Greig (10) 30 points 2nd Neil Jones (22) 29 points 3rd Geoff Cox (17) 28 points Over recent times the Bunker Boys have enjoyed something of a fractious relationship with the Eastern Star course.

Canceled bookings and higher than agreed green fees coupled with an intransigent attitude by course management unwilling to compromise probably was the reason so few turned up for this fixture with ten being the lowest high season attendance anyone can remember. Add in the fact that the course was in very shabby condition and several members dislike the course anyway, and you have a recipe for a boycott or at least people not in a good mindset for play. This is another course in desperate need of soaking rain.

Most golfers today found the course very difficult which was reflected in the abysmally low scores returned. Colin Greig topped the list with a meager thirty points and was as surprised as anyone that he won. Neil Jones came second with twenty-nine and Geoff Cox third with twenty-eight. Near pins went to Neil Jones, Keith Norman, and Gary Smith.

One player who shall remain nameless had the grand total of four points for his round.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 25

PATTAYA MAIL

Ladies first at Pleasant Valley PSC Golf from Cafe Kronborg Monday 16th December Pleasant Valley Stableford Café Kronborg boys, and two ladies, went to Pleasant Valley Monday where there is a very small windmill on a golf course. I am not sure of the relevance of the windmill but it was not turning.

Coming to this course and seeing the windmill always reminds me of the song “Tulips from Amsterdam” or, more apt, the song “Windmills of your mind”. Most of our minds were not turning today as only one of our group played to handicap and that was a lady.

We welcomed back Carole and Richard Kubicki from the UK and Carole showed our players in the B Flight that it’s ladies first and her fine 37 points saw off us men.

The A Flight was won by Ronnie - was that a fade or a slice - Ratte - with his modest 34 points courtesy of trees along the left hand side of some fairways.

A hot day with lukewarm scores.

A Flight (0-21) 1st Ronnie Ratte (21) 34 points

Carole Kubicki and Ronnie Rattle.

2nd Takeshi (12) 33 points 3rd Richard Kubicki (12) 32 points B Flight (22+) 1st Carole Kubicki (23) 37 points 2nd Jan Lovgreen (27) 35 points 3rd Svend Gaarde (23) 29 points

Double tops for Ronnie Thursday 19th December 2019 Bangpakong

Thursday the Café Kronborg golfers went to Bangpakong Riverside course, although one of our group thought, before joining us, he would go to the other Bangpakong Golf Course.

The prestigious Riverside course is a good test of golf but the 17th and 18th with their excessive bunkering can damage your score as our lowest handicap golfer found to his cost and that resulted in him losing on countback. These two holes

Brian Gabe & Ronnie Ratte.

can be plus plus - just like the prices in the restaurant.

Some sand traps on other holes are difficult to distinguish between a waste area and a bunker, and in the absence of any guidance from the score card - and not wanting to do a Dustin Johnson we thought it wise not to ground our clubs.

The A Flight was won by Brian Gabe on countback after the unfortunate Petur Petursso lost his ball on the 17th.

In the B Flight Christmas

came early for Ronnie Ratte with his second win this week.

We welcomed Petur Petursson from Iceland and our friends Tiziano Dal Pastel, Colm O’Donovan and Andre Van Dyk - hope to see you all again soon.

We bid farewell to Svend Gaarde who will no doubt return next winter with even more sophisticated hearing aids.

A Flight (0-20) 1st Brian Gabe (19) 39 points 2nd Petur Petursson (6)

39 points 3rd Andre Van Dyk (13) 36 points B Flight (21+) 1st Ronnie Ratte (21) 35 points 2nd Peter Hammond (31) 34 points 3rd Karen Brown (27) 32 points Nearest the pin on 13th Andre Van Dyk. Longest first putts - 9th Colm O’Donovan, and 18th - what course should I be on? - Kenneth Madsen.

28 Dec. 2019 - 9 Jan. 2020

DATE:

SAT 28

SUN 29

MON 30

TUE 31

WED 1

THU 2

FRI 3

SAT 4

SUN 5

MON 6

TUE 7

WED 8

THU 9

Apple’s Irish Bunker Boys

Crystal Bay

Cafe Kronborg

Greenwood

Colin’s Golf

Mt. Shadow

Wangjuntr

Plutaluang

Greenwood

East. Star

Pattavia

Bangpakong

Greenwood

Plutaluang

Crystal Bay

Green Valley Crystal Bay

Growling Swan

East. Star

Harry’s Golf I Rovers

Plutaluang

Lekatai

King Naga

Mt. Shadow

Lewiinski’s The Links

Greenwood

Retox Game On Bar Greenwood

G.wood/B.pakong

Siam Country Resort

Pattavia Pattavia

E. Star/Mt. Shadow

Pattaya CC

Pattavia

Sugar Shack

East. Star

Stay Sharp The Golf Club Tropical Golf Valley View Hackers

Khao Kheow

Emerald Wangjuntr

Green Valley East. Star

P. Vallry/T. Hill

Pattavia

Pleas. Valley

Green Valley

K. Kheow/Plutaluang

Pattavia/Greenwood Crystal Bay/Wangjuntr

Greenwood Parichat

Pattavia

Plutaluang

Khao Keow

Mt. Shadow R. Lakeside

Pleas. Valley

Pattana Emerald

E. Star/Pattana

Greenwood

Parichat

Pattavia

26 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Andy Richards with PAGS Order of Merit New Nordic Pattaya Amateur Golf Series December 2019 Grand Finale for the Year A good field of 116 players, including 16 intrepid ladies gathered at Pleasant Valley Golf Club on the earlier than normal 18th of the month for the New Nordic PAGS Tournament Finale of 2019.

There were some outstanding scores turned in, along with some sparkling individual efforts for the technical prizes available on each hole. PAGS continued a great run with the weather, and this day was again perfect conditions for golf. The course was in moderate condition at best, with the greens although bumpy, at a decent pace. However, it was a prudent call to implement lift, clean and place on the closely mown surfaces.

Players were off the course’s Blue markers for the majority of the round, so good scores were hard earned.

The MVP on this day was hard to distinguish, with several outstanding Stableford scores recorded in the tournament. The day’s best score of 43 points unusually came from the A Flight 0 – 14. Olli-Pekka Suominen (14) also picked up a technical on the Par3, 5th. Rich Fearby again showed his class with a moderate Low Gross of 76, to go with his 2 technicals on #s 2 and 3.

The Ladies winner was Butsaya Heiskanen (20) with a solid 41 points with a special mention to Nan Seekhum who picked up 2 technicals, the NTP on the Par 3, 8th and the Long Drive on # 18.

C Flight for 22+ handicappers was won by SK Kwok

Order of Merit Winner - Andy Richards.

(24) with a strong score of 42 points, closely followed by Aki Pitkanen (24) with 41 points, while Olle Rensburg (26) picked up 3rd spot another point behind with 40 points.

In the B flight (15 – 21) it was Rene Thuner (16) winning with his 40 points, 1 clear of his nearest rival, to go with his Longest 1st Putt prize on #12. Ulf Bergstrom

(19) signed for 39 points, while Jon Thowsen (21) was a further point behind to complete the podium for the flight.

In the A flight (0 – 14), the minor placings went to Ingvar Bergman (14) with a very good 41 points, to go with his technical on #s 1 and 15. The bronze medal position required a countback, with Tommy Marshall’s 19 on the back 9 good enough to edge Jari Laakonen out, after both signed for 37 points.

Tommy also picking up a technical prize for his 3rd shot on the Par 5, #6.

A couple of honorable mentions also go out to multiple technical prize winners not previously mentioned, Aaron Spengler, Martin Cooke and Paul Durkan.

The Order of Merit winner was Andy Richards who

won a trip to the prestigious Angkor Golf Resort, Cambodia sponsored by Angkor Golf Resort. Andy overtook year long leader Todd Fox on the last day, Todd hanging on for equal 2nd with Jari Laakonen, while with the overall prizes only going to 4th this year, Daniel Grob got the prize. Daniel, Jeff Wylie and Urs Wandeler were the only players to tee it up in all 12 events of the year.

The catering crew from Hemingways did their part, feeding the players and guests prior to the prize giving, and I am sure all were satisfied with the selection of food offered in the buffet.

We will all look forward to January 2020, with the New Year ’s 1st New Nordic Pattaya Amateur Golf Series tournament being at Pattavia on the 29th of January.

Tiger Woods and US team rally to win Presidents Cup again Doug Ferguson Melbourne, Australia (AP) — High emotions, fierce hugs from Tiger Woods, this time as a winner both ways in the Presidents Cup. Woods capped off a big year that began with his 15th major at the Masters by playing and leading his U.S. team to another victory in the Presidents Cup on Sunday at Royal Melbourne.

The first playing captain in 25 years, he opened the 12 singles matches by beating Abraham Ancer to set the Presidents Cup record with his 27th match victory, and set the tone for the rest of his team.

The scoreboard was filled with American red scores all day as they rallied from a two-point deficit to win the Presidents Cup for the eighth straight time against an International team that faltered at the worst time.

Matt Kuchar delivered the clinching putt, a 5-footer for birdie that assured him a halve against Louis Oosthuizen and gave the Americans the 15 1/2 points they needed to win.

“For us to be in a hole, to come back and win this thing ... to win it as a team, but to do it with Tiger Woods as our captain was just a huge thrill,” Kuchar said.

They result was 16-14, and at least this one was a contest. The U.S. victory two years ago at Liberty National was so resounding that it nearly ended on Saturday.

International captain Ernie Els was determined to turn it around. He created a new logo for the International team. He relied heavily on

International team captain Ernie Els, left, shakes hands with U.S. team player and captain Tiger Woods after the U.S. team won the President’s Cup golf tournament at Royal Melbourne Golf Club in Melbourne, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019. The U.S. team won the tournament 1614. (AP Photo/Andy Brownbill)

analytics. It still wasn’t enough.

“I followed a plan, and it didn’t quite work out, but we came damn close,” Els said.

“If you compare our team on paper with other teams in other sport, you would have laughed us out of the building. But we gave it a hell of a go and we came mightily close to winning and upsetting one of the greatest golf teams of all time.”

Els thought back to Friday, when the Americans won two matches with birdies on the 18th hole and rallied to halve another to keep the International lead from growing.

On Sunday, all he saw was U.S. momentum that couldn’t be stopped.

“We gave you everything we had,” Els said to Woods at the closing ceremony.

“You were the better team.”

Woods hugged everyone hard, players and vice captains alike, wearing a smile not seen since he walked off

the 18th green at Augusta National after becoming a Masters champion again after injuries that nearly ended his career.

“We relied on one another as a team, and we did it — together,” Woods said, his voice choked slightly with emotion.

“This cup wasn’t going to be given to us. We had to go earn it. And we did.”

Els fashioned the youngest International team from a record nine countries from everywhere outside Europe and took a 10-8 lead into the final day, the first time it had the edge in 16 years.

It wasn’t enough.

Patrick Reed, whose caddie was benched for shoving a fan who had cursed Reed from close range Saturday, built a 6-up lead through seven holes before eventually putting away C.T. Pan to win for the first time this week.

Webb Simpson, who played with Reed as they lost all three team matches,

never trailed in beating Byeong Hun An. Everyone on the U.S. team contributed something.

With so much red on the board, Tony Finau might have been his team the biggest boost. He was 4 down through 10 holes against Hideki Matsuyama, won the next four holes and earned a half-point.

It came down to the final hole in South Korea four years ago. This time, the Americans were assured of a tie if the Internationals were to win the last three matches, creating at least a little drama.

But it was a familiar ending. The Americans now are 11-1-1 in an event that

began in 1994.

“It’s hard to digest,” said Adam Scott, who has played in nine Presidents Cup without ever winning. “It’s incredibly disappointing but ...

I like where this team is going, and I’ll be working really hard now to be on the team in two more years.”

The only International victory was in 1998 at Royal Melbourne, and several players from that team came to Australia this week to conjure up good vibes. It only worked for so long.

The Americans won the singles session for the first time since 2009. Most years, their lead was so big it wasn’t critical. This time it

was. They hadn’t trailed since 2003 in South Africa, the year of the tie.

So inspired was the American play that none of their six singles victories made it to the 18th hole.

The last two matches were halved, and the 8-4 advantage in singles matched the record for the largest Sunday margin since the Americans won 8-4 in the inaugural Presidents Cup in 1994.

The next Presidents Cup is in 2021 at Quail Hollow Club in North Carolina. In the meantime, the Americans will try to get on another team and win back the Ryder Cup, which gives them far more trouble.

45-kg. catch wins Jomtien Fishing Games Jetsada Homklin Chaiwat Deeden brought in a total of 45-kilograms of fish and won the day at the 13th Jomtien Fishing Games.

Pattaya Mayor Sonthaya Kunplome handed out trophies at the Dec. 13-15 tournament, which rewarded anglers for catching the most fish and the biggest stingray, shark, barracuda, snakefish and catfish.

There were 50 teams competing in the game. The result on Dec 15, which was the last day of the game, can be briefly summarized as the following: Fifty teams cast their rods and Chaiwat Deeden reeled in a gross weight of 45.1-kgs and was declared winner.

Sarawuth Boonma placed

Anglers were rewarded for catching the most fish and the biggest stingray, shark, barracuda, snakefish and catfish.

second with 36.5-kgs of fish.

Den Subthai won the shark/snakefish/barracuda category with a 31-kg cobia. Nitat Kunjeng won the stingray prize for a ray

weighing 9.4 kg.

Chaiwat also won the scaledfish category with a 3.2-kg grouper while Chairath Lungrungpradith won the catfish contest.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 27

PATTAYA MAIL

Special Events Jazz Pit Quartet is coming to town on Saturday 28 and 29 December 2019. From 7 pm - 10 pm at Sugar Hut (Thappraya Road). Featuring Odd Riisnaes (Norway) saxophone, Thomas Reimer (Austria) guitar, Chris Stefanetti (USA) bass and Harry Kleiner (Germany) drums. This highly qualified virtuoso quartet will play many styles from Bebop a la Charlie Parker to Latin Songs from Jobim, funky tunes by B. Cobham or H. Hancock and even some of the latest Pop songs.

See you at Sugar Hut on Thappraya Road. Reservations: 038 364 186. Email: sugarhut@sugarhut.com

Pattaya City events Dec ’19 – Jan ’20 Pattaya plans to ring in the new year with a month-long schedule of festive events.

From Dec. 14, the 11th annual Naklua Eat & Walk market opens with locally-made products, fresh seafood and musical shows every weekend through Feb. 8 near Lan Po Public Park. King Taksin the Great Day will be celebrated Dec. 28, with prayers offered to the spirit of Pattaya’s honorary founding father.

Finally, the Pattaya Countdown will usher in the New

Year Dec. 29-31 with concerts and fireworks at Bali Hai Pier.

The biggest names in Thai pop music will rock in 2020 for over three nights at Pattaya Countdown: Universe of Entertainment.

Headline acts at the Dec. 2931 music festival at Bali Hai Pier include Klear, Sweet Mullet, Potato, Modern Dog and Big Ass. Shows run from 5 p.m. to midnight each day.

Black Head kicks off the festival Dec. 29, followed by Getsunova, Instinci, Urboy TJ, Moderndog and Big Ass. On Dec. 30, Ice Saranyu takes the stage first, followed

by Bedroom Audio, Mild, The Toys, Jay Jettarin and Potato.

On New Year’s Eve, the curtain goes up with Jintara Poonlarb followed by Klear, Christina Aguilar, Sweet Mullet, Girls Universe, Boy Peacemaker, The Sun, and artists from MONO Music including Pete-Pera, Benz-Tung Pang-Nina-Angie-Mille, Gelato, Iceace, Chees, C-Cray, Xanephone and Plutonium.

The New Year’s Eve show will be broadcast live 11:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on the Mono Channel 29.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya

New Year Eve Gala Dinner on Tuesday 31st December 2019 The Mirage Gatsby Countdown Party 2020 at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya New Year Eve Gala Dinner on Tuesday 31st December 2019 19:30 – 02:00 hrs. Adult THB 8,000 nett per person inclusive a glass of Italian Prosecco for countdown. Child THB 4,000 nett per person. Early bird & sparkling wine offers. Individual booking before 20th December 2019 receive 20% discount. Group booking before 25th December 2019 10 - persons receive 10% discount.

11-20 persons receive 15% discount. Above 20 persons receive 20% discount. Receive a bottle of Italian Prosecco for every 2 persons (adult) booking. For more information or to make reservations and booking, please call +66 (0) 3830 1234 Email: supparatch@chr .co.th or asstmktmgrcmbr @chr.co.th Website: centara hotelsresorts.com/cmbr Dusit Thani Pattaya New Year’s Eve A Mythical Ambience of the “Dusit Magical Countdown 2019/2020” at Napalai Convention Hall and The Point Tuesday 31 December 2019 from 18.45-1.30 hrs. Experience a magical evening

of spectacular food, fun, and festivity against the mythical backdrop of fireworks display and countdown to the year 2020 with the most phenomenal view of Pattaya Bay. Immerse yourself into the alchemist of our chef’s sumptuous buffet dinner offering European and Asian favourites. Let our live band and DJ entertain you with hit music, catchy tunes and thrilling dance vibes throughout the night. Win many fabulous prizes. Price at THB 6,000 nett per person (terms & conditions apply. 50% discount for children under 12 years old). Advanced reservations recommended, please call +66 (0) 3842 5611 ext. 2149, 2150 or email dtpafb@dusit.com Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya The Flowering Inferno New Year’s Eve Party Celebrate the last night of 2019 and welcome 2020 in style.

Buffet dinner. Shows. Live band. Lucky draw. Countdown.

Fireworks. 31 Dec 2019, 6pm onwards. Bt. 2,999 per person, Bt. 999 per child, kids under 12 eat free. Entertainment only: Bt. 500 for adult. Bt. 250 for under 18. For reservations, call 038-428-755 or secfb.pty@ hardrockhotels.net or https:// w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / hardrockhotelpattaya

Hilton Pattaya Edge Restaurant, Level 14 Celebrate the New Year’s Eve with family and friends at edge with a variety of international cuisine from around the world. Price is THB 5,200 nett per person for international buffet and THB 3,250 nett per person for beverage package. Available on December 31, 2019 from 7pm – 1am at edge restaurant on level 14.

Flare Restaurant, Level 15 Flare offers a romantic dining experience with a 5-course set menu for New Year’s Eve celebration at THB 3,450 nett per person (half price for kids 6-12 years old and free for kids 0-5 years old). Available at Flare on level 15 on December 31, 2019 from 7pm onwards.

Drift Lobby Lounge & Bar, Level 16 Celebrate in style on a private island with a breath-taking view of Pattaya Bay. Drift Lobby Lounge & Bar on level 16 offers a private island package with sharing menus. The small island is priced at THB 30,000 nett for 4 people. The large island is priced at THB 35,000 nett for 6 people. Moreover, beverage package is priced at THB 3,750 nett per person. A wide selection of a la carte menu is also available. Limited numbers available, advance reservation is recommended.

Available at Drift Lobby Lounge & Bar on level 16 on December 31, 2019 from 7pm until late.

Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, Level 34 Celebrate New Year’s Eve on the highest level of Hilton Pattaya. Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Bar offers a variety of unlimited premium selections. Made-to-order main dishes are available. All together is priced at THB 11,500 nett per person. Available for dinner from 7pm – 1am. The exclusive package is available for the access after 8.30pm at THB 5,100 nett per person on December 31, 2019 at Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Bar on level 34.

A New Start Brunch at edge, Level 14 Start a New Year at edge on level 14 with a spectacular international buffet along with a panoramic view of Pattaya Bay. A large selection of international dishes and desserts. Price is THB 1,500 nett per person (half price for kids 6-12 years old and free for kids 0-5 years old). Available at edge, level 14 on January 1, 2020 from 12noon – 3pm. Advance reservation is recommended.

For more information, please call +66(0)38-253-000, Line ID @hiltonpattaya or email: Bkkhp_Pattaya_Festive@ hilton.com Continued on page 29

E-mail: socialscene@pattayamail.com

Senators visit Thai Garden Resort

Centara Grand Mirage welcomes Kai Meesuk

Senator Gen. Lertrat Rachananvitt and his delegation made an official visit to Pattaya on Friday December 13, 2019 where they met with Pattaya’s city administrators before making an inspection tour of the city. During their visit they were special guests of Gerrit and Anselma Niehaus, owners of the Thai Garden Resort. The group enjoyed their warm hospitality and the resort management were most appreciative and thankful for their kind visit.

On her visit to the Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya recently, well-known news reporter and journalist Kai Meesuk Khundilokchaipat (left) and her lovely daughter were welcomed by RM Jari Nielsen.

German benefactors visit HHNFT

Reiner Calmund together with Andrea Bröhl and Hubert Grevenkamp paid a visit to the Drop-In Centre of the Human Help Network Foundation (Thailand) recently to observe the activities of the children studying there and to give them moral support. They were welcomed by Radchada Chomjinda, the Director of HHNFT. During their visit they watched a performance put on by the children and joined them in a most enjoyable lunch.

28 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Dusit Thani Pattaya unveils the new Cascade Restaurant

Ronakit Ekasingh, Deputy Mayor of Pattaya City, Amnart Charoensri, Banglamung District Chief, Mrs. Patcharaporn Yimyam, Pol. Lt. Gen. Montree Yimyam, Commissioner of Provincial Region 2, Neoh Kean Boon, GM of Dusit Thani Pattaya and Lim Boon Kwee, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International toast to the success of Cascade Restaurant.

Neoh Kean Boon welcomes guests to the relaunching of Cascade Restaurant.

(l-r) Pol. Lt. Gen. Montree Yimyam, Amnart Charoensri, Ronakit Ekasingh and Thierry Douin, Senior Vice President, Operations, Dusit International.

Prachoom Tantiprasertsuk (left), Vice PresidentSales Dusit Hotels & Resorts together with the distinguished guests.

After a five-month makeover, Dusit Thani Pattaya hotel in North Pattaya launched its newly renovated all-day dining venue, Cascade Restaurant on Dec 13 witnessed by over 150 invited guests.

Guests of honour included Pol. Lt. Gen. Montree Yimyam, Commissioner of Provincial Region 2, Mrs. Patcharaporn Yimyam, Amnart Charoensri, Banglamung District Chief, Ronakit Ekasingh, Deputy Mayor of Pattaya City and Lim Boon Kwee, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International.

Neoh Kean Boon, General Manager of the Dusit Thani Pattaya welcomed the VIPs and guests saying, “My team and I wish you a very warm welcome and thank you for making the time to join us this evening as we unveil the latest updates to Dusit Thani Pattaya.

“Our promise to always deliver the best memorable experiences for you, our valued guests, be it comfortable and elegant accommodation, delightful gastronomical experiences or facilities for a healthy and active lifestyle, it is realized with the completion of this phase of our latest renovation upgrades. It is with much pride that we introduce you to the renewed concepts of our signature Cascade Restaurant, DFIT Fitness Centre and Kid’s Club.”

Having invested over 48 million baht to upgrade Cascade Restaurant, its Fitness Centre- DFIT and Kids Corner, this award-winning beach resort lives up to its reputation for excellence and

delivering great experiences, even as it turns 32 this year.

The completely-transformed Cascade Restaurant with 230 seats and a view of the Atrium Garden and indoor waterfall, beckons with a botanical ambience themed with oceanic accents. Guests and customers will also find themselves immersed in a kitchen scene where live action stalls and an open kitchen make for an interactive dining experience as they watch the chefs deftly prepare their meals.

The newly created menu beams with the best of Pan Asian cuisine which includes a variety of Thai noodle dishes, dim sum and Beech Oven Rotisserie specials. The Cascade Restaurant also has the advantage of housing the only Beech Oven in Pattaya!

The ever popular Dusit Gourmet continues to offer freshly-made daily treats and deli produce such as baked goods, light snacks, chocolates and pastries and the newly-installed Bar is a welcome addition too.

Sporting a brand-new look, the DFIT Fitness Centre enables guests to continue with their healthy and active lifestyle away from home and the renovated Kids Corner will now offer even more fun and interesting activities for the children to enjoy and participate in.

Guests were given a tour of the new facilities and indulged in a sumptuous sampling of the new dishes.

Whilst thanking all present for their support of the hotel during the launch, Neoh added, “It is our aim to ensure that everyone goes home with a memorable experience of our brand promise ‘Gracious Hospitality’ each time they visit us here.”

Lim Boon Kwee, COO of Dusit International makes his address.

Ronakit Ekasingh presents a bouquet to Neoh Kean Boon and Lim Boon Kwee.

Peter Malhotra (left), MD of Pattaya Mail with Executive Chef B. Pathmanathan Balagangdaram, and Thomas Pfordte, Corporate Director of Food & Beverage.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Montree Yimyam presents a bouquet to Neoh Kean Boon as the other dignitaries look on.

VOL. XXVII No. 42

From page 27 Mövenpick Siam Hotel Na Jomtien Pattaya New Year’s Eve Retro Night As the clock ticks away the last few hours of 2019, come & celebrate the magic of the new year with us and enjoy a lavish international seafood BBQ buffet, including fresh seafood, live cooking stations, the largest dessert selection in town, festive temptations, a live band, DJ and show to welcome in 2020 on Tuesday, 31 December 2019 at La Costa Beach Restaurant & Bar. Price: THB 4,250 nett per person *BBQ dinner buffet with a glass of sparkling wine or beer. *Child below 12 years old dine for FREE. Date: 31 Dec 19. Venue: Poolside.

New Year’s Eve Set Dinner Prepare yourself for a culinary treat with a celebration 5 course dinner menu at T55 New York Grill Room on the last day of the 2019. Highlighting quality produce in a warm atmosphere to make your evening a gastronomic success. T55 New York Grill Room invites all gourmets to come & experience our special New Year’s Eve Menu crafted by our talented chefs.

Price: THB 4,500 nett per person. *5 courses menu with a glass of wine or cocktail. Date: 31 Dec 19. Venue: Poolside.

Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa New Year’s Eve Chic en Blanc Dinner Buffet 609 Kitchen, Resort Lawn.

December 31, 2019 from 7 pm – 10.30 pm. Dress Code: Gorgeous White. THB 3,900++ per person. 70% OFF per child + Limited Kids Menu (6-12 yrs.) THB 5,500++ per person including a range of free flow alcoholic beverages till 10.30 pm.

PATTAYA MAIL

New Year’s Eve Set Dinner (6-Course) Pebbles Bar and Grill, December 31, 2019 from 7 pm – 1 am. THB 4,500++ per person. 70% OFF per child + Limited Kids Menu (6-12 yrs.). THB 7,000++ per person including free flow premium alcoholic beverages.

Add on Countdown Package THB 1,900++ Countdown Package 10.30 pm – 1 am THB 2,500++per person.

Live entertainment includes DJ and spectacular fireworks.

New Year’s Eve at R Bar Countdown Package R Bar, December 31, 2019 from 10.30 pm - 1 am THB 2,500++per person. Live entertainment includes DJ and spectacular fireworks. For booking or inquiries, please contact 038-259-099 or email: sasamon.j@renaissancepattaya.com.

Contact information Darika Wechsawarn (Nam Warn) Tel. 03825.9099 Royal Cliff Beach Hotel The Roaring 20s at Royal Wing Suites & Spa. This New Year’s Eve, experience an extravagant flashback to the Roaring 20s as we ring in 2020 with premium dishes, live music and classy cabaret shows. Join us for a glamourous gala dinner offering a mouthwatering 4course extravaganza with welcome canapés to start the festivities. At midnight, enjoy spectacular fireworks from the VIP section at the Infini Pool of the Royal Cliff Beach Hotel to cap off an unforgettable night! 31 December 2019. 7pm onwards.

Dress Code: Smart casual.

THB 7000++ per person.

50% discount for children under 12 years. Reservations: contact 038 250 421 Ext. 2037 or email: gromain@royalcliff.com

Intergalactic New Year Party Say goodbye to 2019 and ring in the New Year with a bang! Experience an epic intergalactic New Year’s Eve celebration like no other at the Royal Cliff Beach Hotel poolside. Share a fantastic feast with family and friends, dance to the musical beats of live entertainment, enjoy out of this world performances or mix and mingle with cool extraterrestrials, humanoids, space warriors and little green aliens as you experience the coolest New Year party on this side of the Milky Way! 7pm-2am (poolside). THB 7000++ per person. 50% discount for children under 12 years. Reservations: contact 038 250 421 Ext. 2037 or email: gromain@royalcliff.com Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya Eat your way to 2020 @ Big Fish, 6th floor. Celebrate 2020 with a premium all-youcan-eat seafood BBQ buffet dinner, a special welcome drink and live entertainment.

Then, head on up to the countdown party at Sky Bar on 27th floor with your exclusive pass. Price at THB 2,999 nett per person.

Take It Higher! @ Gravity Lounge, 24thfloor. Premium all-you-can-eat seafood BBQ dinner buffet, a welcome drink, live entertainment and a countdown party. Eat and party with stunning views out across Pattaya. Price at THB 5,555 nett per person.

Let’s Turn 2020 Countdown Party @ Sky Bar, 27th floor. Let’s party into 2020 together. Spend the night at one of the highest bars in Pattaya. Price at THB 1,500 nett per person. For more information and reservation, please contact 038 930600 or

email: fbsec@siamatpattaya .com Thai Garden Resort Celebrate New Year in Style.

Tuesday 31 December 2019, start at 18.00hrs. New Year’s Eve with an international gala buffet at the Oasis Restaurant and Poolside. Let us entertain you with an exciting Chinese acrobatic show, the Thai Garden Resort Trio Band and the performance by the “Grand Opera Thailand” • Adults: THB 2,000.nett • Children (4-12 years): THB1,000.- nett • under 4 years: Free of charge. All prices are based on food only, there is no refund in case of unforeseeable incidents, or weather conditions. Dress code: smart casual, no sleeveless shirts, no shorts, no flip flops.

Please make your reservation at the Thai Garden Resort (North Pattaya Rd. Opposite Terminal 21 Shopping Centre) in person to select your table. Or under: reservation@thaigarden.com, or Tel.: 038 370 614.

Associations & Clubs The next meetings of Pattaya City Expats Club (PCEC) will be held on Sunday, December 29 & Jan 6 2020. 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.

Bromsgrove - SATCC Multi-Chamber Eastern Seaboard Networking Bromsgrove International School and SATCC, in

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 29

cooperation with AMCHAM, AustCham, BeLuThai, CanCham, GTCC, NTCC, and BCCT cordially invites you to Multi-Chambers Eastern Seaboard Networking on Friday 17 January 2020 at 18.00-21.00 hrs at the Intercontinental Pattaya.

Cost: THB 600 for SATCC/ participating chambers and THB 1,200 for non-members.

Price includes food and a free flow of soft drinks, beer and wine. Booking: Email comms.satcc@gmail.com.

The Eastern Seaboard Businessmen’s Dinner is a monthly event taking place on 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 Rotary Club of Pattaya (Thai-English) meets at the Royal Cliff Grand Hotel on the 1 st and 3rd Mondays of the month. Meetings begin at 19.00 hrs. President Stephen Devereux Email: stevecarlow@gmail.com

Rotary Club Phönix Pattaya (German) meets every Tuesday at the Holiday Inn Pattaya at 19.00 hrs.

President Dieter Barth Email: dieter.barth@rotary-phoenix-pattaya.org 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 Joachim Klemm Email: jo.klemm53 @gmail.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 Dieter Reigber Email: dieter.reigber@t-online.de 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. Michel Roche Président Email: mmproche@gmail.com Continued on page 27

30 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

VOL. XXVII No. 42

A Legend is born?

A new restaurant has opened in Pattaya promising European cuisine and atmosphere. This is Legende, run

by Oksana, a charming Estonian lady in the front of the house, and Leo, a Swiss/Thai chef in the kitchen. After one evening in Legende, we felt Oksana and Leo have definitely combined to offer Pattaya’s gourmets something different. Lamb with couscous, for example, but there are many more.

Legende also displays one of Pattaya’s amusing little foibles, being on the corner of a Thappraya Soi with no number! Somewhere between Soi 7 and Soi 9 but it isn’t Soi 8 as that is the other side of the road. For now, let’s call it Soi Seven and a Half; however, when coming up Thappraya Road, Legend is on your left after Soi 7, and as they say in the classics, “Seek and You Will Find”.

Entering the restaurant you are presented with a wonderland of Euro-style décor. Large tables, chairs or pouffes to sit upon and some amazing wall art. The kitchen is behind the far wall

and glass features along another two walls. Outside is another al fresco dining area, which on the evening we arrived, very quickly filled up.

Serving the tables are some very pleasant service staff in grey uniforms and green aprons.

Beverages has beers B. 90220 and house prosecco B. 190 per glass. Champagne is offered from the prosecco range all the way to Moet et Chandon for a good blow out at B. 5800. The House

wines are from the Santa Helena Chilean label and begin at B. 750 and are eminently quaffable.

The next indicator that Legende is something special comes with the menus, leather-bound and substantial. Not present were the usual number of “starters, mains, desserts” but some very different items under headings such as Warm Palate, Morning Set (B. 220-370), or Tea Menu for example.

Waiting to serve you, Oksana, Leo and their staff.

Moist juicy lamb with couscous.

Looking for Legende on the street corner.

Coming from Leo’s kitchen were such items as goat cheese salad (B. 280) with lettuce, nuts and red vinegar dressing, and several others including Caesar salad with chicken, shrimp or salmon (B. 220-270).

Soft Beginnings has a chicken liver terrine (B. 165) and Let’s Go Essentials has a risotto packed with chicken and mushrooms (B. 290). The cauliflower soup B. 160) was very smooth, but I requested some ground

The classic rum baba.

black pepper to give it more zing for me. The Scandinavian salmon soup with cream and vegetables (B. 190) looked very interesting.

Taking a more plebian approach, there were several “burgers” with the Moroccan burger with fries (B. 330) attracting me, and turning out to be a wonderful collection of tastes wrapped up in a crispy bun around a lamb

patty, eggplant caviar, arugula and mozzarella and sundried tomato plus some fries on the side as well.

Another interesting combination was avocado and crab (B. 250) in the Warm Your Palate section.

Other “Essentials” included a garlicky shrimp in olive oil and parsley (B. 220)

and that looked very ‘essential’ to our team. The risotto was superb, generally not one of my favorites, but I was so glad I tried it.

Legende is a very welcome addition to Pattaya’s better restaurants. The décor from Erawan Deco (so outstanding I had to mention them) and Oksana’s professional training as a Maître d’ at front of house and international chef Leo in the kitchen all combine to give the readers a very pleasant dining experience. Will it become a legend? Only time (and you) will decide that, but the Dining Out Team is giving Legende a highly recommended rating. Do try.

Legende, 162/203-204 Thappraya Road, tel 098 3060 444, on street parking, open 9 a.m. until 11 p.m., open six days (closed Mondays).

Read more news at pattayamail.com

VOL. XXVII No. 42

From page 25

Community Services 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 080 563 0232. 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. 9.00 a.m. meetings every day at Satree Pattana Centre on Soi Skaw Beach off Second Road. Call 080 563 0232.

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.

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 Overeaters Anonymous The ‘Up to You’ group meets Wednesdays 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the housing area just behind Pan Restaurant in Jomtien on Thappraya Road.

Call Steve at 038-364-207(h) or 089-250-1359 (cell) for directions or more information.

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 <banc hangvfw12146membership@ gmail.com> or visit website: www.banchangvfwpost12146.org.

Royal British Legion Thailand meets on the last weekend of every month at various locations around the city. Please join and like the Face Book page and you will see the all the social events listed. You do not have to have served in the Armed

Oysters Kilpatrick Our “better” restaurants are serving fresh oysters again, imported (flown) from France to Pattaya, shivering in their shells. Local oysters generally come without shells, but to serve Kilpatrick Oysters, you will need some shells. Buy some unshelled ones as well (or beg for the shells from your local restaurant).

Ingredients Oysters on the shell Worcestershire sauce Cream Salt and pepper to taste Bacon, chopped finely Fine breadcrumbs

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019 31

PATTAYA MAIL

Serves 4 24 1 tspn 1 cup 250 gm

Cooking Method Remove oysters from shells and put aside. Put shells on a baking sheet and heat in a moderate oven. Mix Worcestershire sauce and cream. When shells are hot, return oysters to shells. Use tongs to handle the shells, as they get very hot. Add a little of the cream mixture to each shell; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Note that if the oysters are small, you can put more than one in the shell, using some of the cheaper local market oysters.

Top each oyster shell with chopped bacon and fine breadcrumbs. Place baking sheet under a hot griller and grill until bacon is crisp (but not burned) and oysters are warmed through. You can also give them another splash of Worcestershire sauce just before serving. For a final touch place the hot shells on a bed of sea salt.

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 an email to - chonburi .secretary@rbl.community.

Samaritans of Thailand English Help Line operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide support to the expatriate community. English-speaking staff, trained in crisis intervention will provide active, non-judgmental and empathetic listening services on the phone.

All calls will be handled on an anonymous basis and are free of charge. (02) 713-6791.

Dining & Entertainment New Delicacies at Pan Pan San Domenico: Italian Antipasto: Parma Ham, Salame, Milano, Hot Salame, Mortadella, Olives, Mozzarella & Bell Peppers. Served with hot, crispy pizza bread.

580 Baht. Highly Recommended. Must Try! Black Spaghetti Seafood Ki Mao: With Prawns, Cherry Tomatoes, Chilly & Squids. 395 Baht. A must for spicy food lovers! Saeb-e-lee! Pan Pan San Domenico, Jomtien Pattaya, 038 251 874, 084-345 1717. Pan Pan Italia Restaurant, Na Jomtien Sattahip, 038 237 880, 065-570 7836.

Pan Pan Cafe Bar, Terminal 21, Pattaya, Tel. 086-392 3288 The Oasis Restaurant and Poolside of the Thai Garden Resort offers nightly dining presentations with different themed “all you can eat” buffets at the resort poolside: Monday – Italian buffet; Tuesday – BBQ buffet; Wednesday – Duck buffet; Thursday – German buffet with roasted pig; Friday – Asian Delights

buffet; Saturday – international buffet; Sunday – Steak & Skewers buffet. The buffet starts from 6 p.m., runs until 9 p.m. All this for just 499 baht nett per adult. 299 baht for children under 12.

(Kids under 4-years old eat free). 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.

Indian Lamb Curry at Yupins. Lamb fillets and leg, homemade ghee and fresh home ground spices. Spicy sauce includes sultanas, raisins and cranberries Served with popadom, roti, homemade mango chutney and cucumber raita. An Amazing Experience! Only 350 baht.

And a quick reminder that your favourite Oysters from Normandy are now arriving every Friday fresh the same day. Try them! For reservations, call 038 250394 or visit website: www.yupins.com

Hobbies 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.

Rest & Recreation The Lost World is a beachfront water park at the Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, a themed jungle adventure attraction, part action and thrills, part relaxing

tropical resort, all rolled into one destination. It is a world where the variety of attractions and activities is practically endless. Explore the waterfalls and rope bridges, take a ride on the newly improved lazy river, or speed down any one of the 12 water slides. You can cool off in any of The Lost World’s three swimming pools, a free-form main pool, a children’s pool, and a lap pool. Plus the Gulf of Thailand is a few steps away along Wong Amat Beach.

School holiday rates start at THB 4,050++/night. Plus, free Kids Club entrance for 2 kids. Tel 038 301 234. eforea spa at Hilton Pattaya Two combination packages of body massage and facial treatment exclusively designed for relaxing tight muscles and nourishing your facial skin. ‘A Luxurious Spa Package’ will take you to a deep relaxation for 90 minutes with a traditional Thai therapeutic massage by herbal hot compress. Followed by full facial treatment, cleanse, scrub and

moisturizing for 60 minutes.

A Luxurious Spa Package is priced at THB 5,000 nett per person and THB 9,600 per couple. ‘eforea Journey of the Sense’ is for a short-time relaxation from head to toes.

Start from a 90-minute body massage followed by facial treatment with a Chinese acupressure over your head and face. Priced at THB 3,900 nett per person and THB 7,500 nett per couple.

Today until December 2019. eforea spa at Hilton Pattaya is located on level 17 of Hilton Pattaya and opens every day from 10 am – 10 pm. Advance reservation is required. For more information or reservation, please call +66 38 253 000 or pattaya.eforeaspa@hilton.com

Shopping 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.

32 FRIDAY DECEMBER 27, 2019

PATTAYA MAIL

Thai windsurfers win 3 medals at SEA Games

VOL. XXVII No. 42

Tiger Woods and US team rally to win Presidents Cup again

Jetsada Homklin

Chonchaya Junthonglang won gold for taking first place in the Female RSX category, Nattapong Phonopparat won a sliver in the Male RSX race, and Navin Singsart scored a bronze in the RSX One bracket.

Thai windsurfers won three medals at the 30th Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines.

Deputy Mayor Pattana Boonsawad announced results Dec. 10, pointing out that the Pattaya-based athletes took home a gold, silver and bronze from the games in Subic Bay. “They faced many obstacles, including strong winds and a competition site that favored the hosts,” said Pattana, who also is secretary for the Windsurfing Association of Thailand. “But we met our goal of winning three medals.”

Chonchaya Junthonglang won gold for taking first place in the Female RSX category.

Nattapong Phonopparat won a sliver in the Male RSX race.

Navin Singsart scored a bronze in the RSX One bracket.

The wins did not come without cost, however, as Chonchaya suffered a right shoulder injury in her race due to strong winds.

The U.S. team hold their trophy after they won the President’s Cup golf tournament at Royal Melbourne Golf Club in Melbourne, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019. The U.S. team won the tournament 16-14. (Full story on page 26.) (AP Photo/Andy Brownbill)

45-kg. catch wins Jomtien Fishing Games Story on page 26

PATTAYA MAIL is edited by Nopniwat Krailerg for Pattaya Mail Publishing Co., Ltd. Printer, publisher and owner Offices: 62/284-286 Moo 12, Thepprasit Road, Pattaya City 20150.

Advertising and Administration Office: Tel: 038 411 240-1, 413 240-1, Fax: 038 411 833, E-mail: ptymail@pattayamail.com www.pattayamail.com