03-02-2012 by The Phuket News

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atong illusionist Joe Conrad is reported to have disappeared last Thursday (January 26) and may have left the country, just a day after the ‘grand opening’ of his magic theatre in Jungceylon. A source, who spoke on

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condition of anonymity, said Mr Conrad had “fled” amid growing financial woes. Even as late as Monday (January 30), a Jungceylon spokesperson insisted Mr Conrad had not run away, and that his show was still continuing as usual. “The story of Mr Conrad’s disappearance might have been

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invented to discredit him,” the spokesperson said. However, on Wednesday the Jungceylon spokesperson confirmed to The Phuket News that Joe Conrad was nowhere to be found. He is reported not to even be in Thailand anymore. Continued on page 2

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NEWS Teens caught high on ya ba, skipping class Twenty-one school students, some as young as 13 years old, have been caught skipping school and allegedly using drugs in various areas around Phuket Town. The boys, in three different groups, were caught on Monday (January 30) by the Phuket Semarak Centre, which monitors truancy around the island. Si x of t hem tested positive for methamphetamine (ya ba). Kriengkrai Boonta, deputy chief of Phuket Semarak Centre, told The Phuket News that he and his teams are always on the lookout for truants in Phuket. “We have had many complaints from people about the bad behaviour of these teenagers, including hugging and kissing in public, drug use, and smoking cigarettes (for which the legal age is 20). “These students are between 13 and 15 years old, from various schools in Phuket. “They have been assembling in abandoned buildings and pubs in Phuket

Town. Some of them confessed to using other drugs such as crystal-methamphetamine (ya ice) or cough syrup mixed with cola. “When we find truant students we give them a urine test to test for drugs. “Then we report the incident to their parents and school teacher before releasing them. But if we catch them a second time, we have to talk to their parents again and the students may face criminal charges,” Mr Kriengkrai said. Mr Kriengkrai believed a lack of communication within families was responsible for the teenagers’ behaviour. “We find that often these children come from families with problems. Parents should spent their time talking with and taking care of their children, rather than just giving them money or material objects.” Teachers also need to work hard to develop skills which encourage students to attend school, and to make them more interested in learning, he added.

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LOCALS SHARE TAXI HORROR STORIES Local businesspeople shared their experiences with local taxi drivers with Phuket Vice Governor Sommai Preechasin on Wednesday (February 1) – needless to say, few were pleasant. During the meeting at the Phuket Provincial Hall, which was held in the hope of finding a solution to the problem, the Corporate Social Responsbility Project Manager of Bangkok Hospital, Pareeya Jullaphong, spoke of her company’s encounter with taxi drivers. The hospital’s limousines are often used to pick up patients in hotels, but the cars are often blocked from entering by taxi drivers. Stones are often thrown at the vehicle, and often a large group of taxi drivers surround the vehicle, she said. Local people say the most aggressive taxi drivers are known to be stationed outside five specific luxury hotels; the Avista Resort & Spa in Kata, Ramada Karon Beach Resort, Merlin Beach Resort at Tri Trang Beach, Cape Sienna Hotel & Villas in Kamala, and Novotel Resort in Patong. Drivers stationed outside Front Village Resort at Karon Beach, Twin Palms Phuket Resort at Laem Singh, and Club Med Phuket in Kata are reported to have violent behaviour as well. The Purchasing and Gen-

‘I’ve seen these people destroy the island’ – Australian Honorary Consul Cunningham. eral Affairs Manager of Club Med Phuket in Kata, Vijit Dasantad, told V/Gov Sommai that one of his guest’s vehicles was blocked by taxi drivers. The guest had to pay B800 to disperse the group from the road. “Twelve years I’ve lived in Phuket – I’ve seen the power of these people destroy the island,” Australia’s Honorary Consulate, Larry Cunningham, said. As a result of the welldocumented violence by taxi drivers, Mr Cunningham said Australian travel agents generally warned Australian

Man claims Ganesh necklace saved life A Rawai construction worker who was struck by three slingshot bullets believes he was saved from real harm by a necklace of the elephant god Ganesh. Police were called to a construction site, opposite the Rawai Municipality Office on January 27. Duty officer Pol Capt Atthawat Suwanarat met Jirawat Thepsueb, 44, who he said was staggering around drunk. Mr Jirawat had three bruises on his abdomen, from which he claimed was a gun. Mr Jirawat said he was shot by fellow construction worker, Rabieb Jeanphu, 67, after an argument, but Mr Rabieb showed police the slingshot and three clay bullets he had used to shoot his colleague. Mr Jirawai claimed he was saved from his “gunshot” wound by the necklace he was wearing at the time, one of the elephant god Ganesh.

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tourists not to use taxis when visiting Phuket. Information provided by the Deputy Commander of Phuket Police, Col Peerayuth Karajaedee, showed at least 779 unlicensed taxis are currently being operated around the island, while only 225 are licenced. At least 69 vehicle ranks around the island are made up exclusively of unlicenced vehicles. A ray of hope in fixing Phuket’s violent taxi driver reputation lies with a special team set up by the Ministry of Interior, which is due to arrive in Phuket later this month.

Something which might also make a difference is the proposed plan for four new public transport routes across the island. Officials at the Phuket Land Transport Office (PLT) are awaiting approval from the Department of Land Transport in Bangkok. If these public transport routes are implemented, Phuket’s traffic and taxi mafia problems will be solved, said the Deputy Chief of PLT Wanta Phummararossukon. However some say the routes might increase conflict between authorities and taxi drivers, as it will reduce their income.

Is it all an illusion? Continued from page 1 It appears on the surface at least that Mr Conrad may have pulled off his greatest disappearing act. Mr Conrad had borrowed money from several people to invest in his magic theatre, and also owed back-rent to the development company behind the Jungceylon shopping mall, Phuket Square Co., Ltd. The phone number for the Patong theatre has already been disconnected, and the website is no longer online. Since Monday, signs at the Jungceylon booking office have indicated there are no shows. The source said Mr Conrad had borrowed heavily to meet the operating costs of his theatre, and had allegedly run up debts of more than B1 million. Joe Conrad Magic Theatre opened in May 2011, but failed to live up to expectations, according to the source,

who added that audience numbers averaged between just five and 30 people per show in the 700-seat theatre. Production Director of the Joe Conrad Magic Company Ltd., Andrew Pragnell, confirmed to The Phuket News that Mr Conrad had been missing since Friday morning. On that day, Mr Pragnell received a text message from Mr Conrad saying that he was going to go away for just a few days. “It was a complete shock to us,” said Mr Pragnell, referring to the illusionist’s subsequent disappearance. “Nobody knows what he was thinking.” Mr Pragnell had a meeting with the director of Jungceylon last Thursday (February 2). The future of the magic theatre will be clear soon. It is still not clear why Mr Conrad staged a ‘grand opening’ last Wednesday.

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Patong businesses fight 2am crackdown Representatives of entertainment venues in Patong have launched a protest in the hope the Government will relax its 2am closing hour curfew – something business owners say will put them out of business. Last Saturday (January 28) at the police box near Soi Bangla, more than 100 people, including hotel owners plus tuk-tuk and taxi drivers, met with Pheu Thai Party spokesman Prompong Nopparit to voice their concerns. They gave him a letter, signed by more than 500 people, to pass on to Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, asking for the hours to be relaxed.

Bustling Bangla Road is supposedly quieter after 2am. On Januar y 7, Kathu police ordered an abrupt 2am closing time on entertainment venues around the island, irritating bar owners in the

popular Patong area who began to lose business. Police said the crackdown was ordered by the Ministry of Interior, after the General

Manager of Sri Panwa resort, Vorasit ‘Plawan’ Issara was attacked in the early hours of January 5. Led by the President of the Patong Entertainment Association Weerawit Kuressombut, Patong business owners said the area should be allowed special zoning because its nightlife attracted tourists to the island. “We won’t survive with a 2am crackdown,” said Mr Weerawit. “Closing hours of Patong entertainment venues should be flexible.” Mr Weerawit said Patong’s nightlife is one of the main things tourists want to experience while on the island, and

tourists didn’t usually head out to venues until after 11pm. When Mr Prompong was given the letter, he assured local business owners he would pass the letter to Ms Yingluck, and would raise the issue with the government to try and find a solution. However, he pointed out restricted closing hours were part of Thai law, which must be enforced across the country. “No-one should be exempt from the law,” said Mr Prompong. “However, a closing hours extension might be allowed if Patong area is considered a special economic zone.” -See page 10

Bar raids in Rawai and Karon Two bars in Rawai and Karon were the subject of a raid by officials on January 31, after orders from the Ministry of Interior to ensure no entertainment venues stayed open past 2am. Officials have been enforcing the crackdown the General Manager of Sri Panwa resort, Vorasit ‘Plawan’ Issara was

attacked in the early hours of January 5. The manager of the Laguna Night Club in Rawai, Eakchai Uyapitang, 37, was arrested for running the nightclub without a licence. He was fined, and the nightclub remains open. Chief of the Damrongdharm Centre Prapan Kan-

prasang said there had been several complaints made by people who said the nightclub remained open after 2am, and the noise disturbed neighbours. Mr Prapan said the nightclub was inspected last year as well and ordered to close because it had no licence. However the nightclub’s owner

reopened it after the raid. Officials also visited the Art Space Gallery & Bar in Karon, after complaints the bar was hosting a music band until 3.30am, and expanding the bar’s seating area to include the public footpath.

When officials visited bar owner Niwat Buatong, 50, he denied this and said he had never opened past 2am. He said there wasn’t usually have a band at the venue. Officials found no evidence to challenge this but are investigating.

IN BRIEF Foreigner found hanged A foreigner was found hanged in a jungle area near Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort, between Karon and Patong, at around 5pm on January 25. Chalong police described the man as Caucasian, aged between 25 and 30 years old, and 175cm in height. He had short hair, a beard, and was wearing a white T-shirt and white trousers. Police found no evidence of a fight so are assuming his death was a suicide.

Unidentified body found floating off Coral Island A boat driver discovered an unidentified body floating face down not far offshore from Koh Hei, or Coral Island, on January 27. Police of Chalong Police Station were informed at 4.30pm, and the body was taken to Chalong Pier and then transferred to Vachira Hospital by the Phuket Ruamjai Kupai Foundation. It is suspected the man is Caucasian. The man has a tattoo on his right shoulder and was only wearing underwear, with no apparent indication of foul play, say police.

The scene during the robbery at the Kasikorn Bank branch in Tesco Lotus Chaofa.

GONE IN 60 SECONDS: Gunman targets bank A gunman robbed a Kasikorn Bank near Tesco Lotus Chaofa Branch in Vichit District last Sunday night (January 29) and fled on his motorcycle with B694,000 in a speedy holdup. The robbery occurred at about 6.15pm Sunday evening when an unidentified man entered the bank, brandishing a home-made gun. He wore a helmet, a mask, a long-sleeved jacket and gloves. Bank staff Boonyawan

Katesuwan, 26, said the man was about 170cm tall and spoke with a central Thai accent. She told The Phuket News that the man walked in and pulled out his gun when he got through the door. He first went to the manager’s room to rummage among the shelves. He then threatened teller Ms Boonyawan, who was sitting behind the service counter, with his weapon and

threw a white sack to her, ordering her to stuff money inside. The robber then moved over to the next counter and ordered another member of the bank staff, Saowarat Klinklub, 24, to do the same. The man then ran out and sped away on his bike that was parked behind Tesco Lotus. CCTV camera footage showed that the robber spent less than a minute in the bank.

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SIMON OSTHEIMER Managing Editor 083 922 9265 managingeditor@thephuketnews.com From Hong Kong; a decade’s experience as editor of magazines and newspapers in Shanghai (City Weekend, that’s Shanghai), Beijing (tbjhome, Urbane), Hong Kong (Time Out Hong Kong), Kuala Lumpur (Vision KL), Bangkok (Bangkok 101) and Phuket. Journalist for Esquire, Fah Thai, Vacations & Travel, Travel & Leisure, CNNGo, Surface and Dwell.

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NORACHAI THAVISIN Sub Editor editor3@thephuketnews.com From Thailand: BA, BFA and Master of Fine Art and Design, University of Tasmania, where he worked as a painter and illustrator. Six years’ experience with the Bangkok Post, Pattaya Mail and Fine Art magazine.

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Ac Consulting Group MD Jaruwan Wathanapumchoo shows the articles from a Thai newspaper that put her car in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.

A owner of a car accused of illegally transporting elephants parts from Kaeng Krachan National Park in Petchaburi to a restaurant in Phuket has denied the accusations, saying her car has not been used for any illegal activity. Thai newspapers reported last Friday (January 27) that a black Suzuki Vitara, belonging to Ac Consulting Group Co., Ltd managing director Jaruwan Wathanapumchoo, was being used to transfer elephant parts to Phuket. “I have three cars that are used for my consulting company. I have no restaurant business and my car has not transported any elephants,” she told media at Phuket Provincial Hall on January 27. Ms Jaruwan’s car was used by her brother to visit various rubber plantations in

Petchaburi and Surat Thani, and this was where the misunderstanding had occurred, she said. “We ask the media to stop publishing news of this incident together with details of my car because my company has been defamed. “We plan to hire a lawyer if there is any more news published about us.” Gov Tri Augkaradacha said on January 11 that he’d never heard of elephanteating in Phuket. “I do not believe that there is a dish made from elephants in Phuket.” After the news broke of the alleged elephant trading, Dr Sak Tanchaikul of the Phuket Public Health Office said that he would check Phuket restaurants to see if there was any evidence of such a practice.

Zero deadly ‘Ae’ alleged killer spiders found gives fake name A search of the house belonging to dead fruit vendor Wanchai Wongsilakorn has found no traces of the deadly spiders believed to have caused his death. Wanchai Wongsilakorn, 30, died at Thalang Hospital on January 23 after what his wife claims was a spider bite. Doctors have not yet been able to pin down the exact cause of death. They suspect, however, that it may have been anaphylactic shock – a massive allergic reaction. A team of officers from the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife

Sanctuary in Thalang searched Mr Wanchai’s house over the weekend and found the relatively harmless Domestic Huntsman Spider, but no deadly arachnids. Awat Nitikul, the chief of the Environmental Conservation Division of Khao Phra Thaeo told The Phuket News, “If we found any suspicious looking spiders we would take them to the entomologist. But we only found 12 Domestic Huntsman Spiders.” Mr Wanchai’s body is now in Bangkok awaiting autopsy.

Police have released the real name of the gunman who allegedly shot Phuket journalist Wisut “Ae Inside” Tangwittayaporn, after he gave a fake name to his associate. The driver of the bike, Noppadon “Pae” Praisri, 41, who transported the gunman to the hit, said the gunman identified himself as Sanya “Noo” Klinchum, 36. However an investigation by police revealed this name actually belongs to an assistant of village headman in Chaam, in Phetchaburi, and the

alleged gunman’s real name is Tossapon Katekeaw, also from Phetchaburi. Police said Tossapon was involved in a murder in 2004, and was charged with being an accessory to murder in 2007. Tossapon has since changed his name several times to hide his identity. Police are still searching for the gunman and two other suspects – Somkuan “Boy” Pandee, 48, and Assadakorn Seedokbuab, 48, a Director of KPP Cable TV, who police allege ordered and paid for the murder.

Plastic bag campaign hits a hurdle Representatives from retail companies that have joined the Governor’s campaign against plastic bags have asked for a stepped-up public relations drive to educate the public before the “No Plastic Bag” campaign kicks off on February 27. At a meeting organised at Provincial Hall on January 27, Ekkachai Krittiyon, marketing manager of Central Festival Phuket, said that a survey of customers in the mall revealed that some people simply did not know about the project. He urged the government to organise more posters and other displays to inform the public. Charkrit Direkwattanachai, Senior Corporate Affairs

Charkrit Direkwattanachai, Senior Corporate Affairs Manager for Public Affairs of Tesco-Lotus, urges more PR. Manager for Public Affairs of Tesco-Lotus, agreed. He said that market research at the end of last year found that most people did not know about

the No Plastic Bag project. Phuket Vice-Governor Somkiat Sangkaosuttirak assigned the Phuket Provincial Energy Office to increase

awareness using radio advertising and more posters. The campaign is supposed to start on February 27, with every participating company allocating one day of the week on which plastic bags will not be given to customers. Mr Charkrit said that this store will have one day a week without plastic bags but was worried that lack of awareness on the part of the public might mean this date was not feasible. Tesco Lotus will launch hand-out cotton bags to its own staff at the start of this month. Ten thousand cotton bags paid for by Tesco and featuring art by local students will be ready for sale on March 10.

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Mega-yacht in Phang Nga Bay The elusive mega-yacht A – one of the world’s most expensive private boats – was moored in Phang Nga Bay last week, offering visitors a rare glimpse of its unique design. T here were also repor ted sightings of the boat in Surin, Bang Tao and Patong. The 394 foot, US$300 million mega-yacht belongs to Russian billionaire Andrei Melnichenko. A source told The Phuket News that Mr Melnichenko and his wife Aleksandra left the boat last weekend for a visit to The Naka Island, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket. “[Mr Melnichenko’s personal] chef came ahead and tested the food. Then the security team came and had a look around,” the source said. Only after these checks did the couple then arrive “in a futuristic looking landing craft”. “They stayed on the beach on Naka for about an hour, but the tide was going out,” the source added. “They were meant to stay and have dinner, but the wife wanted to leave.” Sailing from Europe, A had to refuel only once in Langkawi before she arrived in Phuket. The cost of that refuel, though, was more than

US$1 million. The megayacht was designed by Philippe Starck, and was built to be intentionally bigger and more expensive than Pelorus, the former pride of Russian Billionaire Roman Abramovich (owner of the Chelsea Football Club). A boasts six guest suites with moving walls, each with a stainlesssteel whirlpool bath. The master bedroom, located at the top of the watchtower contains a bed that rotates on a turntable for a panoramic view out all the windows. According to a report on Gizmondo.com, “A guest room is adorned with white sting ray hides. There’s a secret nookie room, because designer Starck is known for his “risque” design choices.” The boat also contains two swimming pools, a helipad, a hovercraft, a garage, over 100 speakers, and more than a dozen plasma TV screens. A will continue to sail around Thailand, but for security reasons, it was not revealed where it will go or for how long. Mr Melnichenko and his wife will return to Europe on their private Boeing 767 while The 394 foot, US$300 million mega-yacht A belongs to reclusive Russian billionaire Andrei Melnichenko. the yacht sails back.

Mass wedding needs love B18m budget requested for new police stations

Organisers of the island’s supposed record-breaking mass wedding, “Andaman Pearl The First Step of Love”, on Valentine’s Day at Laem Prompthep are hoping for a last minute rush of participants. As of Tuesday, numbers were well below the 108 couples required to break the Guinness World Record, with only 50 registered for the event on February 14. Kusol Thanangpol owner

of Suanluang Wedding company told The Phuket News a special one-day package deal was being offered for a fraction of the three-day package, to increase numbers and hopefully attract more people who are short on time. Three day packages for the event range from B49,000 to B69,000. The new oneday package is available for B7,000, and includes a wedding dress, makeup, group photo (including photos on a

CD) and a wedding dinner at Rawai Palm Beach Resort. Of the 50 couples who have signed up, around 30 are couples who live in Phuket. The remainder are Thai couples from Bangkok, Suphan Buri, Chiang Mai and Chumphon. ■■ Registration for the event closes on February 11. For more information call Suanluang Wedding & Studio 076-221-976 or visit interweddingphuket.com

Phuket Provincial Police have requested a budget of more than B18 million to build two new police stations, one in Wichit and the other in Karon. The Wichit Police Station will be constructed on five rai of land donated by former Phuket Town Mayor and Senator, Phummisak Hongsyok. The land already has 40 homes for police officers, built at a cost of B13 million

and currently occupied by officers working at Phuket Town Police Station. Both will be built to a three storey design similar to that of existing Thalang Police Station. Pol Col Peerayuth Karajedee, Deputy Commander of Phuket Provincial Police, told The Phuket News, “When the Wichit Police Station is finished it will function inde-

pendently from Phuket Town Police. The Karon Police Station will be independent from Chalong Police Station [which currently covers Karon area].” More than 90 officers will be posted from Phuket Town Police and elsewhere on the island to man the Wichit Police Station while more than 80 will be transferred from Chalong and elsewhere to Karon.

TAT temple trip a ‘good idea’ Around 40 local people and tourists joined the recent temple tour offered by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to celebrate Chinese New Year and learn about Phuket’s culture.

People rode a bus to nine prominent temples around the island over the weekend, while being accompanied by an English-speaking guide. One tourist spoken to by

The Phuket News said she really enjoyed the temple trip: “It is a good chance for me to learn about Phuket’s culture. I think it is a very good idea [by the TAT].”

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Mafia extorts BK bike taxis The Motorcycle Taxi Drivers Association in Bangkok said on Tuesday (January 31) that its members were being forced to pay substantial amounts of money to the mafia for the right to offer their services to city commuters,

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TAN Network reported. Association president Chalerm Changtongmadun says he represents around 500 motorcycle taxi drivers in the capital where 200,000 individual motorcycle taxis work.

Mr Chalerm claims that his group has been forced to pay protection fees to local and national mafia of up to B40,000-60,000 a month for each motorcycle street queue. He said the mafia represent high-ranking members

Uni bans campus protests against lèse majesté law

stifle academic freedom or freedom of expression, but those freedoms needed to be separated from political movements that caused conflict and chaos inside the university and in the country at large. The university on Monday banned the use of its campus to campaign against the lèse majesté law, with both support and condemnation from students to the decision of the university’s executive board and alumni. The House of Representatives committee on reconciliation, chaired by Sonthi Boonyaratglin, said all political parties disagreed with amending Article 112 of the Penal Code because this sensitive issue might lead to a national crisis.

Beleaguered rector of Thammasat University, Somkid Lertpaithoon, on Tuesday (January 31) defended the university’s ban on campaigning against the lèse majesté law, fearing more division and chaos if the campus continued to allow the use of its facilities for such rallies. “Being Thammasat’s rector is a dilemma. I faced a protest when I expressed opposition to Nitirat’s movement. When I allowed [Nitirat] to use our campus, another group turned against me. “Can’t Thai society tolerate it when someone wants to take a stand on a just and appropriate point?” Mr Somkid wrote on his Facebook page, reported The Nation. He said he was not trying to

Bike taxis need to pay protection money to the mafia. of the armed forces or local and national politicians. If they refuse to pay, Mr Chalerm claims that the mafia

will send bullies to terrorise them. He said the head of a motorcycle queue was murdered recently.

Brit fights for life Paul Ayling, 48, remains in a coma and still fighting for his life in a Hua Hin hospital after being viciously clubbed on the head last November by two Thai attackers in a dispute over a building decoration payment. After withholding payment for a Thai company’s B19,600 bill for home decoration work that he deemed to be shoddy, Mr Ayling, 48, was attacked in Hua Hin after taking his 12-yearold son Scott to school, reported the Evening Standard. Two men stepped out into the road to block his way and one, armed with a wooden club, hit Mr Ayling on the head and left him in the middle of the road. Mr Ayling, a carpenter and kitchen fitter, and his wife Justine, 42, brought their son to Thailand for a new life and to be close to Paul’s retired parents and

brother who are living in the seaside city south of Bangkok. The couple designed and built their own luxury B21 million pool villa that Mrs Ayling is now trying to sell to return home. Mrs Ayling said her husband had used “a few expletives” to describe the work of the Thai workers when refusing to pay them. “The wallpaper had to be painted over because each roll was a different shade, and they left paint everywhere. The carpenter also botched the job in the kitchen and Paul had to fix it himself,” she said. Paul’s father Michael Ayling, 69, put out a reward and within five days had been told the names of the attackers and who had hired them. However, no arrests have been made in the attack. www.foreca.com

Phuket Seven Day Weather Forecast FRI FEBRUARY 3

SAT FEBRUARY 4

SUN FEBRUARY 5

MON FEBRUARY 6

TUE FEBRUARY 7

WED FEBRUARY 8

THU FEBRUARY 9

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During 1-3 Feb, cool with morning fog. Minimum temperature 16-20 oC. Maximum 27-30 oC. Cold to very cold on mountaintops, minimum temperature 8-14 oC. Easterly winds 15-30 km/hr. During 4-7 Feb, cool with morning fog.

CENTRAL:

NAKHON RATCHASIMA

26-34 °C

NORTHEASTERN:

23-34 °C HO CHI MINH CITY

During 1-3 Feb, cloudy with widely scattered thundershowers. Minimum temperature 22-23 oC, maximum 31-34 oC. Southeasterly winds 15-30 km/hr. Wave height about 1 metre. During 4-7 Feb, widely scattered thundershowers.

SOUTHERN (EAST COAST):

Scattered thundershowers throughout the period. Minimum temperature 23-25 oC, maximum 29-32 oC. During 1-5 Feb, the upper Gulf from Surat Thani upward. Wave height 1-2 metres. During 1-5 Feb, Easterly winds 15-35 km./hr.

SOUTHERN (WEST COAST):

Widely scattered to scattered throughout the period Minimum temperature 23-25 oC, maximum temperature 31-33 oC. Variable winds 15-30 km/hr. Wave height about 1 metre.

THE PHUKET NEWS

NATIONAL NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

Army kills 4 civilians in south The Government has ordered an investigation into the deadly shooting of four Muslim civilians by paramilitaries in the restive south, a top official said on Tuesday (January 31), after the deaths sparked local outrage. An elderly man and an 18-year-old boy were among those killed when Thai army rangers opened fire on a pickup truck on Sunday night in Pattani, one of three Muslimdominated southern provinces plagued by years of violence. Troops said they had heard a gunshot before the shooting, which also injured three other teenage boys and a 76-year-old man. Survivors said the truck was carrying mourners returning from a funeral, according to local police. “Today we are not convinced that we are absolutely in the right because the four victims are not militant sympathisers,” said Deputy Prime Minister Yutthasak Sasiprapa, who oversees national security. He said the probe would assess whether the proper procedures had been followed by paramilitaries, adding that if it was found that the men were shot in error, the state would apologise and pay compensation.

authorities, they must remedy it quickly or it will increase sympathy for militants.” Officials have suggested that the people in the pickup truck could have been used as human shields by an insurgent who was on the run from authorities. Two guns were found in the truck, according to a police report on the incident, although it did not reveal whether either had been fired. Police said the driver told officers that the weapons did not belong to the passengers. In Yala, another insurgency-prone province, Islamic clerical leader Ma Samae said he was not satisfied by the Army’s explanation of the shooting. “Authorities said that militants mixed with villagers who were returning from funeral Relatives of Muslim men shot dead by paramilitaries mourn ahead of their burial at a cemetery in troubled south- prayers, but this explanation ern province of Pattani on Monday. Paramilitaries shot dead four people, including an elderly man and a teenager, hurts Muslim sentiment,” because they feared they were under attack, police said. The victims were male relatives returning from a funeral. –Photo AFP he said, adding that officials should be prosecuted if they Prime Minister Yingluck A complex insurgency, rest, authorities have imposed bloody conflict in the region were found to be in the wrong. Shinawatra also commented waged without clearly stated emergency rule, which rights by exacerbating local tensions. Almost 5,000 people – on the incident, amid concerns aims, has riven the deep south campaigners say effectively “Several incidents, includ- both Buddhists and Muslims that the deaths could deepen near the border with Malay- gives the army legal immunity. ing this one, have caused – have been killed and 8,300 sia for years, resulting in a discontent in the south. Saraw ut A ree, at the mistrust between the state wounded since the unrest “If these people are re- heavy presence of government Muslim Studies Center of and local Muslims, and among began in 2004, according to ally civilians, as it has been troops, supported by armed Bangkok’s Chulalongkorn Buddhist and Muslim resi- local conflict monitor Deep University, warned that the dents,” he said. reported, then we are ready to paramilitaries. South Watch. remedy the situation,” she said. Struggling to quell the un- shooting could worsen the “If this was the fault of the –AFP

Stateless children freed Two stateless child ren being held at Bangkok’s Immigration Detention Centre were released on Friday (January 27), reported MCOT Online News. The sister, 13, and brother, 11, are members of an indigenous ethnic group from the mountains of Vietnam, who arrived in Thailand in 2008 seeking asylum, but were instead detained. National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRC) chairperson, Dr Amara Pongsapich, said

the children’s freedom resulted from joint efforts and collaboration among the NHRC, the Immigration Bureau and the Thai Committee for Refugees Foundation (TCR). It was a solution to help the stateless to get a proper treatment in accordance with human rights, she said. The TCR hailed the move, saying “it marks Thailand’s historic development in human rights protection. “The release represents Thailand’s restless efforts

to promote and protect the human rights of children in compliance with its fundamental obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which Thailand ratified on February 12, 1992,” the foundation said. After her release, the girl said she was delighted and would like to further her study. She wanted to be a lawyer to secure the release of other detained stateless persons.

Joss sticks cause cancer The Ministry of Public Health has revealed that smoke from joss sticks has been the number one cause of death from cancer among Thais. Public Relations Officer for Chonburi, Kanyarat Kiatsupa, quoted the ministry’s warning to the public about the danger from joss stick smoke during the Chinese New Year celebrations, the National News Bureau of Thailand reported. She said information from the ministry specified that smoke from incense has a very high level of carcinogen and

that lung cancer has been one of the major causes of death among Thais. She said that while up to 90 per cent of lung cancer patients developed the symptom from smoking, health officials found that more than 50 per cent of female patients do not smoke nor were secondary smokers. Findings have concluded that these patients developed cancer from joss stick smoke. According to the ministry, smoke from incense carries three types of carcinogen,

including benzene, butadiene, and benzoepyrene. It was also found that one joss stick can produce as much as 325 grammes of carbon dioxide and seven grammes of methane. Ms Kanyarat is calling on related state offices to launch a campaign to build awareness of the dangers of joss stick smoke among the public. Joss sticks that have been lit while offering prayers should be quickly extinguished to curb the impact of the deadly smoke, she said.

thephuketnews.com

REGIONAL NEWS

THE PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

Thousands greet Suu Kyi Huge crowds hailed Myanmar opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi as she hit the campaign trail on Sunday ahead of by-elections seen as a key test of the regime’s commitment to reform. Tens of thousands flocked to get a glimpse of the Nobel Peace Prize winner in the coastal district of Dawei, as she made her first political trip outside Yangon since declaring she would stand for office in the April 1 polls. “People need to watch to make sure the coming by-elections are free and fair. There should be no vote buying and no threats to get votes,” she told throngs of jubilant supporters, who responded with loud cheers at the end of her one-day visit. Su r veying the crowd packed along a main road in the southern town, Suu Kyi added that she “chose the right place” to kick off her campaign tour. The democracy icon’s decision to stand for a seat in parliament is the latest sign of dramatic change sweeping

Myanmar democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi is greeted by supporters as she travels to a British-funded project in the Magwe division of Pakokku township, northern Myanmar, on January 31. –Photo AFP through the country formerly known as Burma after the end of nearly half a century of outright military rule. A new government dominated by former generals came

Japan’s population to shrink by 2/3 Japan’s population is expected to shrink to a third of its current size over the next century, with the average woman living to over 90 within 50 years, a government report said on Monday. The population is forecast to decline from the current 127.7 million to 86.7 million by 2060 and to tumble again to 42.9 million by 2110 “if conditions remain unchanged”, the health and welfare ministry said in the report. The projections by the ministry’s National Institute of Population and Social Security Research forecast that

Japanese women would on average have just 1.35 babies, well below the replacement rate, within 50 years. The report said that last year’s earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan, which left more than 19,000 people dead or missing, hit average life expectancy but that the figure was expected to continue its upward trend. Japan’s life expectancy – one of the highest in the world – is expected to rise from 86.39 years in 2010 to 90.93 years in 2060 for women and from 79.64 years to 84.19 years for men. –AFP

to power last year following November 2010 elections that were marred by cheating and the absence of Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD) party.

The regime has since surprised observers with a series of reforms, including welcoming the NLD back into the political mainstream, ceasefire deals with ethnic minority

rebels and the release of hundreds of political prisoners. Western nations are now considering easing sanctions, further raising hopes of an end to decades of isolation and

poverty, but controversy surrounding the 2010 vote means the upcoming by-elections will be heavily scrutinised. The NLD is running for all 48 seats up for grabs in the polls and Suu Kyi is standing in a rural constituency near Yangon. Sunday’s visit was in support of Aung Soe, the party’s candidate in a local township. The 66-year-old, known as “The Lady”, also spoke about democratic principles and job creation for educated young people. The April polls, held to fill places vacated by those elected in 2010 who have since become ministers and deputy ministers in the government, will be the first time Suu Kyi has been able to directly participate in a Myanmar vote. Her involvement may boost the legislature’s credibility, but the seats available are not enough to threaten a majority held by the army-backed ruling party. Suu Kyi was released from house arrest days after the 2010 election. –AFP

Khmer Rouge court unable to pay Cambodian salaries Ca mbod ia’s U N-backed Khmer Rouge tribunal has r un out of money to pay the wages of hundreds of workers as contributions from donor countries have dried up, a court spokesman said Tuesday. None of the more than 300 Cambodians working at the tribunal, from judges to drivers, will be paid this month and may not receive their salaries in February and March either, said Neth Pheaktra. “We have no money,” he told AFP, adding that some judges and prosecutors had

not been paid since October. The funding shortfall does not affect the more than 130 international employees at the war crimes court, whose wages are paid by the United Nations. Cambodian salaries are paid through voluntary contributions from donor nations such as Japan, France and Australia. “It affects morale at the cour t,” said Neth Pheaktra. “The people depend on their salaries to support their families and it’s not good to go without pay.” The court, set up in 2006 to find justice for the deaths of up to two million people during the Khmer Rouge’s

1975-1979 rule, is perpetually cash-strapped but this is thought to be longest period of non-payment to date. The financial woes come as the UN and Cambodia are locked in a very public standoff over the appointment of a new foreign judge who wants to probe two possible new cases that are strongly opposed by the government. The tribunal has long been dogged by allegations of political meddling and has also been criticised for proceeding too slowly, adding to donor reluctance to stump up more cash, say observers. Court officials will travel to New York in February to meet with donor countries to

discuss the court’s budget for 2012-2013, according to Neth Pheaktra. “We hope the donor countries can provide urgent funding for our staff,” he said, adding that the Cambodian side of the court would likely need around $10 million in foreign contributions in 2012. The court, which has spent around $150 million since it was set up in 2006, has so far completed just one trial, sentencing a former prison chief to 30 years in jail. An appeal verdict in that case is expected today (Friday). A second trial involving the regime’s three most senior surviving leaders is ongoing. –AFP

China detains 7 over toxic pollution spill China said on Tuesday (January 31) it had detained seven company executives after suspected industrial waste discharges polluted a river with a toxic metal, threatening water supplies for millions. The discharges have contaminated a 100-kilometre stretch of the Long jiang

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River in the southern region of Guangxi, sparking panic buying of bottled water in nearby cities, state media said. One company, Jinhe Mining Co., has been blamed for dumping cadmium, a carcinogen which can seriously damage kidneys, bones and the respiratory system, into

the river in a spill that was discovered on January 15. Since then, the government has decided to go after other polluters, inspecting more than a dozen factories on the river and stopping production at seven plants, the China Daily newspaper said. –AFP

THE PHUKET NEWS

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

Romney wins big

Romney is in a good position to win the Republican presidnetial nomination.

Mitt Romney trounced main rival Newt Gingrich in Florida’s primary on Tuesday, putting himself in a commanding position to win the Republican nomination and take on President Barack Obama. The margin of victory – 47 per cent to 32 per cent with more than three-quarters of the votes counted – dealt a bitter blow to former House speaker Gingrich, who faces a Herculean task to turn the race around. Gingrich, 68, shocked the party establishment when he thumped Romney, 64, in South Carolina earlier this month, but his support sank fast in the larger and more diverse state of Florida and Romney now has all the momentum. Romney’s thumping win in the Sunshine State demonstrated his strength in a key general election battleground, and in his victory speech in a Tampa ballroom, he took firm aim at Obama. “Well Mr President, you were elected to lead. You chose to

follow, and now it’s time for you to get out of the way,” he said, to chants of “Mitt! Mitt! Mitt!” “President Obama wants to fundamentally transform America and make it something perhaps we wouldn’t recognise. I want to restore to America the values and principles that made us the hope of the Earth.” The victor fired a warning shot at Democrats who have been salivating over the increasingly caustic tone of the Republican campaign – marked in Florida by the constant stream of personal attacks flying between Romney and Gingrich. Gingrich acknowledged he had faced an uphill battle in Florida, but promised to wage a long-haul battle for the nomination, taking the fight all the way to the party convention in August when the nominee will ultimately be crowned. “I think ultimately it’s going to come down to a conservative versus Massachusetts moderate primary fight across the whole country,” he said. –AFP

Leave isolated Amazon natives alone, says Peru Peruvian officials on Tuesday urged outsiders to stay away from isolated Amazon basin rainforest natives after pictures of “uncontacted” tribe members were published online. Mariela Huacchillo with the Peru's office for Natural Protected Areas (SERNANP) told AFP that even indirect contact with the indigenous people could spread deadly viruses that do not exist in the region. The natives could

also be hostile, she warned. Huacchillo urged outsiders “to never attempt to enter in contact with these (isolated) communities,” whose people “are trying to remain apart from the outside world.” The pictures, published on the website of pro-native NGO Survival International, shows a family of “uncontacted” Mascho-Piro people in the Manu National Park, in remote southeastern Peru on

the border with Brazil. The pictures were taken in late 2011 by an archeologist and Survival International sympathiser, the group said. Huacchillo also urged people to not leave food, clothing or other gifts like locals or tourists sometimes do “with the goal of starting a contact with the isolated natives.” In October a park ranger was lightly wounded by a blunt arrow fired by a Mascho-Piro

native for getting too close to the natives. “It was a warning,” Huacchillo said. On their website, Survival International mentioned death late last year of one Nicolas “Shaco” Flores, a local resident who had been leaving food and gifts for a small group of Mashco-Piro natives for 20 years. Flores was “shot by an uncontacted tribe’s arrow,” the group said.

The incident was never confirmed by Peruvian officials, including from Huacchillo’s office. One year ago Survival International published pictures of an isolated native groups living on the Brazilian side of the borde. There are 15 uncontacted native groups in Peru’s Amazon rainforest, according to government officials, and around 100 in the world. –AFP

IN BRIEF Scores die as Europe freezes A severe cold spell in eastern Europe has left at least 58 people dead over the past week, including dozens who were homeless. Temperatures have plunged to -27C in some parts of the region, with Ukraine among the hardest hit countries.

‘Leaky’ condoms recalled in Africa South Africa is recalling 1.35 million condoms given away at the African National Congress’s centenary celebrations in January after some broke during intercourse and others leaked. Some people were panicking because they were infected with Aids and were concerned for their partners, Sello Mokhalipi of the Treatment Action Campaign, an Aids charity, said. “We poured water into the condoms and they were leaking like a sieve.”

US teacher charged with child abuse A former Los Angeles primary school teacher has been charged with lewd acts on children, including putting cockroaches on students’ faces, blindfolding them and taping their mouths shut. Mark Berndt, 61, was arrested at his home on Monday. Berndt was removed from teaching duty in January 2011, after more than 40 photos of children in a classroom, with blindfolds and tape covering their mouths, were reported by a film processor.

British warship to Falklands Britain said on Tuesday it was sending a new state-ofthe-art warship to the Falklands, but insisted the deployment was purely routine despite rising tensions over the islands’ sovereignty. Defence ministry officials said the decision to send HMS Dauntless to the South Atlantic Ocean was long planned. The Type 45 destroyer is due to head out on her maiden voyage in the coming months to replace the smaller Type 23 frigate HMS Montrose. The Falklands dispute is especially sensitive as the 30th anniversary approaches of the war between Britain and Argentina over the barren islands. Buenos Aires denounced what it called a “militarisation” of the dispute. “The Argentine Republic

Britain’s government is insisting its deployment of stateof-the-art naval vessel HMS Dauntless is ‘purely routine’. rejects the British effort to militarise a conflict which the United Nations has said on multiple occasions should be resolved through bilateral negotiations,” a foreign ministry statement said. Prime Minister David Cameron angered Argentina

last week by accusing it of “colonialism” over the British overseas territory which Buenos Aires claims belongs to Argentina. That led Argentine President Cristina Kirchner to accuse Cameron of portraying her country as “violent” in

the dispute. Foreign Secretary William Hague played down the deployment of HMS Dauntless, telling Sky News television: “There’s nothing unusual about this deployment, it doesn’t reflect any change in the situation of any kind. “These things, they are routine deployments. We do keep a garrison on the Falkland Islands, and of course aircraft there as well. Royal Naval ships frequently visit the area.” Hague added, “We will always be in a position to defend the Falkland Islands if necessary, not that we are aware of any military threat to the Falkland Islands at the moment.” Argentina’s then-ruling junta launched an invasion on April 2, 1982. –AFP

thephuketnews.com

10 LETTERS/VIEWPOINT

THE PHUKET NEWS

OPINION

A long way from the hills Phuket’s vibrant Thai-Nepalese community > 11

Editor’s Viewpoint

NORACHAI’S WORLD

CLOSING TIME

The recent crackdown on closing times has prompted plenty of reaction from punters and bar owners. On January 7, Kathu police ordered a strict 2am closing time for entertainment venues around the island, irritating bar owners in the popular Patong area who began to lose business. Police said the crackdown was ordered by the Ministry of Interior, after the General Manager of Sri Panwa resort, Vorasit “Plawan” Issara was attacked in the early hours of January 5, in Phuket Town. The attack on Plawan was undoubtedly serious, and warranted a strong and immediate reaction by officials. But is an island-wide 2am closing time the answer? Bar owners in Patong have protested the restriction, which included giving a letter about their concerns to visiting Pheu Thai Party spokesman Prompong Nopparit to pass onto Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, in the hope the new directive can be relaxed. They say tourists don’t

The Amazing Disappearo.

Letters to the Editor Peeking under the big top

[Re. Patong businesses fight 2am crackdown] This is hilarious! This venue attracts all the wrong type of tourists – people that crave seedy venues with only lust in their eyes. Bangla Road is nothing more than a circus. Decent folk wouldn’t dream of bringing their families there. Coincidently or not, it is interesting to see the Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Patong up for sale, [as well as] hotels in Surin and Kamala closing. There obviously isn’t the demand! There are plenty of cheap guest houses available. All the vultures are there ready to pounce on their prey in the early hours of the morning. Thing is 2am closing doesn’t give them enough opportunity. I would suspect that the majority of crimes happen well beyond that time! As for the representation of the taxis, tuk tuk and hotel representatives, say no more! Irishkev24

Hear, hear [Re. Patong businesses fight 2am crackdown] The 2am closing time should be enforced. Nothing good happens past that time. This is all about greed. It’s about time police enforce that law. Coyote

Angry bar owner

[Re. Patong businesses fight 2am crackdown] I am sick of the police trying to close my bar business down. I am a bar owner in Patong and I need to stay open past 2am if I’m going to make any money. Can’t they just relax? Annoyed

Weaving a web

[Re. Hunt for killer spider draws a blank] It occurs to me that being

‘a fruit vendor’, the ill-fated Thai spider victim may have been bitten by a venomous spider that arrived from elsewhere among a consignment of fruit. This has happened in Europe. Of course, an allergic reaction is the most likely explanation: according to one internet site, a Welsh visitor died weeks after being bitten while in Thailand. Highly venomous species such as the black widow, or the brown recluse are not native to Phuket, and are, in any case, not normally dangerous. It would be unlikely therefore, that hospitals would carry antivenom to combat the neurotoxins in spider venom. Patrick Campbell

The amazing spider(man)

[Re. Hunt for killer spider

draws a blank] The damage is done to our eight-legged friends. People tend to remember bad news and scary news especially. Even if found completely innocent, it’s going to take some powerful marketing now to get folks to not look at spiders the way that many look at snakes... that being: Kill on sight! I hope as much hoopla is made about the actual cause of death as it was about a possible spiderinduced death. Dave

On the buses

[ Re . To u r i st s e sc a p e from bus fire] Well, at least the brakes didn’t fail, and nice to know the bus driver is an electrical expert. There seem to be a high percentage of bus failures,

normally arrive at their bars until 11pm, meaning there are only a few hours of business left before they need to close. Patong bar owners hope the area can be declared a “special economic zone” and so be exempt from the new restriction – but should Patong be treated any differently to Kata, Karon, or Phuket Town? Perhaps it should. Patong is popular with tourists all eager to spend their dollars and euros on cheap drinks and a good night out on Soi Bangla – for many, going out to party is one of the main reasons they chose the world-famous bay for their holiday. Allowing venues in Patong to remain open longer than elsewhere in Phuket could ensure that the rest of the island would be mercifully rid of the carnage that results from excessive drinking. Perhaps bar owners should be looking at ways to encourage patrons to enter their venues earlier than 11pm, to do better businesses, rather than try to dodge the law. Cheers!

This week in history in a relatively small land mass. Something is very wrong. Laurie Howells

Up to speed

[Re. First hydrofoil service makes public debut] A tip of my hat for offering something unique, but more importantly for considering your impact on the environment in your business plan. I wish you great success. Dave

Not that rare?

[Re. Hunt for k iller spider draws a blank] They were hoping that their hunt would turn up a brown widow spider, very rare in Thailand and never before found in Phuket. I have a huge nest of these living below my house. Thepthai

Letters may be edited for clarity or length. Email editor@thephuketnews.com or fax 076 612 553. Please include your full name, phone number, and email address.

thephuketnews.com

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

■■ February 3, 1870 – The Fifteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, guaranteeing voting rights to citizens regardless of race. ■■ February 4, 1936 – Radium becomes the first radioactive element to be made synthetically. ■■ February 5, 1958 – A hydrogen bomb known as the Tybee Bomb is lost by the US Air Force off the coast of Savannah, Georgia, never to be recovered. ■■ February 6, 1942 – The United Kingdom declares war on Thailand. ■■ February 7, 1935 – The classic board game Monopoly is first released by Parker Brothers. ■■ February 8, 1960 – The first eight brass star plaques are installed in the Hollywood Walk of Fame. ■■ February 9, 1969 – First test flight of the Boeing 747. The plane went on to become one of the world’s most recognisable aircraft.

THE PHUKET NEWS

FEATURE 11

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

FROM THE HILLS TO THE PARADISE ISLE Phuket’s small but vibrant Thai-Nepalese community W

herever they are in the world, including Phuket, Nepalese seek to keep strong links with their home land’s religion and culture, amid the constant modernising influence of other countries. Phuket is home to around 3,000 Thai-Nepalese, made up of three different groups – Myanmar-born Nepalese, Thai-born Nepalese, and immigrants who have arrived directly from Nepal. Nepalese immigrants first settled in Thailand in 1953 on the Thai-Burmese border in Kanchanaburi province. Later generations formed small ethnic Nepalese communities across the Kingdom. Phanupong Limbuprasertkul, President of the ThaiNepalese Association (TNA) in Phuket, is a third-generation Thai-Nepalese who moved to Phuket around 25 years ago. “We’re Thai,” said Mr Phanupong. “We were born and brought up in the ‘Land of Smiles’. But we are always conscious that our ancestors are Nepalese.” Accordingly, they mostly speak both Thai and Nepali, plus English. In Phuket, Thai-Nepalese

Above: Phanupong Limbuprasertkul, a president of ThaiNepalese Association, says his people have a huge respect for Thailand and Thais. Right (in blue): secretary of the Thai-Nepalese Association Om Jee Khodomkul prays at the association’s office at Soi Kuan Yang on Patong Hill. earn their living in a variety of industries, such as tailoring, hospitality, or selling T-shirts and souvenirs. As tourism offers them more opportunities, most live in Patong, Kata and Karon. Mr Phanupong and Nepalese community leaders set up the official Thai-Nepalese Association six years ago. Committee members were elected through votes from the group’s members. A religious shrine, with an attached association office, was built at Soi Kuan Yang on

Patong Hill and has an outdoor gathering point. The shrine has since become the heart of the community with wedding ceremonies, annual festivals and religious rituals held there regularly. Most Thai-Nepalese people in Phuket worship a mixture of Hinduism, Brahmanism (a subgroup of Hinduism) and Buddhism, and celebrate both Thai and Nepalese festivals. “Religion is the force that unites our community,” said association secretary Om Jee Khodomkul.

However, the association welcomes everyone from all nationalities and religions. As well as being a religious and cultural centre, the office acts as a community court where members can complain and settle their disputes. Problems range from personal and financial issues,

family quarrels to crime. Last May, Thai national Phakpoom Maneerat was arrested after he had allegedly raped a Nepalese woman. With support from the TNA, six other Nepalese women came forward to report to police that they were also raped by the same man.

“Some members of our community are not treated well,” said Mr Phanupong. “But our social status today is better than it has been in the past.” The NTA tries continually to improve social conditions for Nepalese. Young Thai-born Nepalese, numbering around 30 per cent of the community, are encouraged to go to school and improve their language and other skills. “We don’t want the tailoring trade to be the only option for the next generations,” said Mr Phanupong. “We want youngsters to have a proper education, so they can be something else such as lawyers or doctors.” The Nepalese community is keen to raise its profile through social events, such as recently giving donations to flood victims. This was formally recognised by authorities two years ago when the charitable Sribakawat Sanatan Mandil foundation was set up by the Thai-Nepalese Association. The lives of Phuket’s Nepalese are a constant balancing act between never forgetting their cultural heritage, while looking forward to their bright future as proud Thais. –Paritta Wangkiat

thephuketnews.com

12 BUSINESS/TOURISM

THE PHUKET NEWS

BUSINESS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

Flying high

Bangkok Airways’ net profit exceeds expectations > 14

Western capitalism ‘has failed’ – Davos

Instead of a regular salary, many rubber tappers get a percentage of the price received for the rubber they harvest.

Government moves to fix rubber prices Rubber companies in Phuket, home to the country’s biggest rubber dealer, Von Bundit, will be happy with the Pheu Thai Government, which on Tuesday approved a proposal to shore up the price of para rubber to B120 a kilo. D e put y G ove r n me nt Spokesman Anusorn Iamsaard said the Thai rubber price currently stands at B107 a kilo. The price dropped to a low of B85 at the end of last year, due to the global economic downturn, the Japanese tsunami and the Thai flood crisis, which caused the suspension of automobile production. The fall in the price for Thai rubber was aggravated by China buying cheaper Indonesian rubber, and by investors taking profits by selling rubber contracts. The Government

plan is to create a buffer stock, buying rubber when surplus supply threatens to depress the price, and selling it later when prices rise. The scheme will be operated through the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), which will offer interest-free loans of B5 billion to agricultural institutes including agricultural cooperatives, and B10 billion to the Rubber Estate Organization. These organisations will use the loans to buy rubber from producers for processing and then sell it later at an appropriate price. The government will compensate BAAC’s costs. The Government’s scheme to support the price of rice has seen exports plummeting. –MCOT

Gold price expected to reach US$2,000 Classic Gold Future, a Thai gold trading company, predicts that the global gold price will hit US$2,000 an ounce soon, due to the continuous demand from speculators. Natee Chutavarakul, CEO of gold trading company Classic Gold Future, believes that demand will continue to push up the global gold price, which today stands at US$1,718.

Since 2011, he said, the global demand for gold has grown by 36 per cent. Last year, Classic Gold Future’s trade volume more than doubled, to approximately 16,000 transactions for the whole year. It peaked in August at 3,700 transactions for the month. Natee expects the trade volume to double again this year.

Leaders of the global business élite were confronted on Wednesday with the fear that the Western model of capitalism has failed and is about to be shoved aside by emerging powers. Over four decades, the annual World Economic Forum in the Swiss ski resort of Davos has become an emblem of the triumphant market but this year delegates admitted that state capitalism on the Chinese model is in the ascendant. Even political leaders, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, said it was time for a rethink among European policy-makers. Four days of public debate and private networking kicked off with a stark warning from a panel of experts that the historic motors of the 20 th century global economy will have to reform or die. “I think we have three to four years in the West to improve the economic model that we have, and if we don’t do that soon, I think we’ve lost the game,” warned David Rubenstein, managing director of the Carlyle investment fund. The 62-year-old billionaire has done very well out of Western capitalism – the US firm paid him a US$134 million (B4.2 billion) annual bonus this month – but he warned that the West needs to get its deficits under control and return to growth. “If we don’t do that soon, when we are here [in Davos] in three to four years ... the game will be over for the type of capitalism that many of us have lived through and thought was the best type of capitalism,” Rubenstein said. Global labour leader Sharan Burrow, general secretary of

Managing director of the Carlyle investment fund David Rubinstein: ‘If we don’t [improve the Western economic model] soon I think we’ve lost the game.’ the International Trade Union Confederation, urged corporations and governments to work with workers to develop a new economic model – and warned of a backlash. “Let’s get a seat at the table for the real economy. Will the real economy please stand up, because the financial markets are killing you,” she said. “Noone will like the social unrest that will follow.” But on the same panel, Professor Raghuram Rajan of University of Chicago, warned the 20th century strength of the Western economy had already failed to live up to its promises

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to workers in the rich world. “Governments made a ton of promises in the 1960s, when growth was very high. We had the welfare state across the industrial world. And then growth started falling off in the ’70s, in the ’80s,” he said. “Some count r ies, the UK and the US, tried to revive it through deregulation and managed for a while, but in general growth is too slow in the industrial world relative to the promises we have made,” he said. Dozens of heads of government will join the titans of commerce and industry in Davos to discuss everything from the Eurozone crisis to Iran’s nuclear programme as well as trends in science and the arts. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, delivering the first of the keynote addresses, said Europe “is a continent that needs to debate new methods”. She warned that protectionism was on the rise in the wake of the marathon impasse in efforts to reach a comprehensive deal for world trade. And she added that struc-

tural weaknesses within the 17-nation Eurozone had been painfully exposed. “We have to address them. Now we really have to do something about them,” she said. “Now we have a serious erosion of confidence in the rest of the world. They are not sure we are going to do something about it. “Nobody will have faith in Europe if unemployment rises”, she added. Other G20 leaders speak at Davos are British Prime Minister David Cameron and Canada’s Stephen Harper. They will join a new generation from countries such as Tunisia and Thailand, which are trying to emerge from turmoil, as well as African heads of state including South Africa’s Jacob Zuma. While US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner will ponder the challenges for the US economy, a sizeable contingent from emerging powers including India and Southeast Asian nations will be asking, “Is this truly the Asian century?” –AFP

THE PHUKET NEWS

BUSINESS/TOURISM 13

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

Google hotel finder ‘not a long-term threat’ – HTN Blair Speers, founder and CEO of locally-based online travel agent (OTA) HotelTravel.com (HTN) this week poured cold water on the chances of Google’s latest venture being a serious threat in the long term. Google launched the new venture last week. Called Hotel Finder, it is a metasearch engine that allows travellers to find, explore and book hotels in the destination of their choice. The search engine trawls through six major OTAs, including HTN, to deliver its results. Like any Google search engine, travellers can search in a number of ways, typing the name of a hotel into the search bar or entering a destination and then filtering through options by

The new Google Hotel Finder is described as ‘experimental’, but still managed to find 538 hotels in Phuket. selecting preferred check-in Hotel Finder then delivand check-out dates, price ers a list of relevant hotels. or hotel stars. Travellers can click on a

hotel, see its location using Google Maps, flick through photos of the hotel, and read

Baring all for tapioca If you’re a 40-year-old tapioca farmer and you have a beef about the Cabinet’s recent approval of the tapioca pledging programme and you want to raise awareness of the issue, what do you do? You take your clothes off in public, of course. But you leave your rubber boots on. At its recent retreat in Chiang Mai, the Yingluck administration approved the 10-million-tonne programme with a budget of B33 billion. Officials will offer compensation of B2.75 per kilogram to tapioca farmers between February 1 and May 31. Patcharida Keeratinoppadol, a tapioca farmer from Nakhon Ratchasima Province, felt it was all wrong. She argued that the programme will prompt buyers to offer even cheaper prices in order to pressure farmers into entering the programme. Instead of submitting her protest letter to officials and watching it sink without trace into the greyness of the Thai bureaucracy, she stripped off her clothes, revealing lacy black lingerie, and demanded to speak to reporters. After handing her letter to the press and posing for pictures – which rapidly appeared in all the nation’s daily newspapers – she put her clothes back on again. Job well done. –TAN/Daily News

reviews before deciding whether to book. Visitors can also check

out prices on major online booking engines including HTN. M r Speers told T he Phuket News last Friday (January 27), “They’re very serious, and it will certainly be a cost to us. “But it’s too complicated [to to make it work effectively]. No one in the world can do it. They’ll never be able to do it accurately.” Though he admitted that the Google name would draw many users initially, and that “it’s a tool everyone will have to use”, he predicted that the problem of providing accuracy would eventually result in “a drift back to the powerful OTAs”. The Hotel Finder website address is www.google.com/ hotelfinder

BoT cuts interest rate again, to 3pc Thailand’s central bank last week cut its benchmark interest rate for the second time in three months in a bid to stimulate the economy after last year’s severe floods. The Bank of Thailand (BoT) lowered the official cost of borrowing by a quarter of a point to three per cent. “Easing the interest rate

will support economic rehabilitation,” the bank’s Assistant Governor Paiboon Kittisrikangwan told reporters. He said the meeting assessed the impact of the months-long f loods to be greater than previously thought, while the global economic outlook had also weakened. –MCOT

The rubber boots are an nice earthy touch as disgruntled tapioca farmer Patcharida Keeratinoppadol shows her concern about the new ‘all wrong’ government policies. We believe that the success of a project is essentially based on a serious management

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14 BUSINESS/PROPERTY

THE PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

65,000 firms join Google Thai initiative Passengers board a Bangkok Airways plane on Koh Samui - the airline exceeded revenue expectations last year.

Bangkok Airways profit flying high Last year’s flooding in Thailand could not wash away Bangkok Airways’ profits, with the privately- owned carrier posting a net profit that exceeded expectations. Last year the carrier saw its net profit increase by up to seven per cent to B600 million, surpassing the B400 million

estimations, the Bangkok Post reported. While profit exceeded predictions and revenue surged by 15 per cent to B13 million, the carrier’s president Puttipong Prasarttong-osoth explained that without the flooding in central Thailand, earnings could have reached as

much as B800 million.He explained that although the carrier did very well, he was still wary of factors that might hurt profits in 2012. These include higher fuel prices, political disruption and the uncertain economy, he explained. While Mr Puttipong remains cautious, he did reveal

that the carrier is planning to launch one new international route in March, between Koh Samui and Kuala Lumpur. As for suspended flights to Ho Chi Minh City, Macau, Shenzhen and Xian, Mr Puttipong said the company would “activate those routes when opportunity knocks”.

Tackling human trafficking The Ministry of Tourism and Sports will establish a network of volunteers to fight human trafficking crimes in order to build a more positive image for the country’s tourism industry. At an anti-human trafficking workshop earlier this week, the Ministry’s Deputy Permanent Secretary, Seksan Nakwong, warned that human trafficking problems damaged the country’s ability to atVilla Suksan is a q uie

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tract tourists. The ministry is working with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security and the United Nations Inter-Agency Project on Human Trafficking (UNIAP) to establish a network of volunteers to tackle human trafficking problems, as well as help to build awareness in the tourism industry. “Human trafficking has put a stain on the country’s

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beggars, who are exploited by gangs,” Ms Sujaree added. According to the Mirror Foundation, an NGO that fights human trafficking, there were 173 reports of human trafficking filed across the country in the past year. They included 38 in fishery-related labour exploitation, 118 in the begging trade, 15 in prostitution, and two others not categorised. The foundation said that human trafficking was at its worst when it involved children, such as those being forced to beg at tourist resorts such as Pattaya (particularly on its popular walking street), Chonburi, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket, Surat Thani, Ayutthaya, Surin, Samut Prakan, Chanthaburi, Lamphun and Ratchaburi.

Google Thailand has reported that over the past six months, more than 65,000 SMEs have joined its Thai Businesses Go Online project. The company is looking to raise that figure to 150,000 this year while focusing on rehabilitating businesses affected by the central Thailand flooding, and on preparation for t he st a r t of t he ASEAN Economic Community in 2015. Pornthip Kongchun, marketing manager at Google Thailand, said the Thai Businesses Go Online project, a partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion Office (OSMEP), Kasikorn Bank, the Thai e-Commerce Association, DotArai, Webiz and the Thailand Post, said that 40,000 of the business that have joined have already completed their own websites. About 60 per cent of the participating businesses say that they have been able to reduce costs

and expand their customer base just by going online. OSM EP Di rector Yuthasak Supasorn said that this year the programme will be extended to more than 33,000 One Tambon One Product (OTOP) businesses to promote them to the regional market. The Thai Businesses Go Online project offers an application called Webiz Express, which allows them to upload information and confirm their identification in just five minutes. Businesses may join and have free lifetime web-hosting, as well as free domain registration for the first year. The system is linked to shipping and tracking services provided by Thailand Post. The Thai e-Commerce Association offers free training at more than 55 centres to those who have no experience of running an online business. For more information, see goonline.in.th

HSBC dumps Thai banking operations Europe’s biggest bank, HSBC, said yesterday (January 25) that it was selling its retail banking and wealth management business in Thailand to Bank of Ayudhya, the latest in a series of asset sales. London-headquartered HSBC said the gross asset value of the business was about US$550 million (B17.3 billion) but Reuters reported that the sale price was a mere US$112 million (B3.5 billion).

The deal is expected to be completed sometime in the first half of this year. HSBC is currently conducting a massive shake-up of its entire business. In recent weeks it has also sold its private banking business in Japan and its operations in Costa Rica, El Salvador and Honduras as part of broader restructuring to “reduce costs and focus on growth”. The Asia-focused bank last year announced massive cost-cutting measures, including plans to save up to US$3.5 billion (B109 billion) by 2013 and to axe 30,000 jobs globally. –AFP

16 ART

THE PHUKET NEWS

CULTURE

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

BIG LIST: Unusual abodes > 22

Peace and quiet “Wat Chalong is a wonderful place to observe people as they hussle between the temple and other buildings, trying to take in the characteristics of this site. “Bus loads of tourists come to take photos and catch their breath below this ancient tree that provides a little bit of tranquility.

“I photographed these two ladies, who I thought were mother and daughter, as one of the temple dogs walked in front of them on his way for a treat. Although vibrant in colour, I felt the black-and-white picture gives the scene a more composed and settling perspective.” –Gerry Cummings

WE’RE LOOKING FOR YOUR PHOTO editor@thephuketnews.com twitter.com/thephuketnews www.facebook.com/ThePhuketNewspaper1 www.thephuketnews.com/random-view.php

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A classical evening of song

he audience in the small, stylishly white aud itor iu m at t he Mon Tri’s Villa Royale on Monday night (January 30) is expectant. The resort owner, the affable Mom Tri, or Mom Luang Tri Devakul, casually welcomes the large gathering of classical music lovers to an evening of fine music and dining. Then the tuxedo wearing Mom Luang Usni Pramoj, with viola in hand, leads in the other members of the string quartet. From the first f lowing notes of beloved Antonin Dvorak’s “American” String Quartet (Op 96 in F major), the listeners are transported once again to the wild open spaces of that continent. ML Usni, 77, Privy Counsellor to HM the King, bends low in full focus to coax the notes from his viola. Playing seamlessly with him, the quartet is bristling with talent. Tasana Nagarajara (violin), Sripong Tiptan (violin) and Kittikhun Sodprasert (cello), are the top notes of Thai classical music, all leading members of the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra that ML Usni sometimes conducts.

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Part of the string quartet, Maestro ML Usni Pramoj plays his viola in full concentration.

The always affable Mom Tri welcomes the audience. After intermission comes Usni Pramoj String Quartet No. 2, the maestro’s own composition, with many moments of lyricism, quirky spaces and Thai humour. The encore of soothing Air on a G String by Bach returns the audience to the comfort of familiar musical space.

There is not much live classical music heard in Phuket but, as many of the audience dine afterwards on fine cuisine at Mom Tri’s Kitchen on the cliff overlooking dark and placid Kata Bay, it’s hard to imagine a better setting to soak up fine music. –Norachai Thavisin

The expectant crowd awaits the rare classical music feast at Mom Tri’s Villa Royale.

THE PHUKET NEWS

PEOPLE 17

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

The evolution of relaxation Michael Paul Stephens Author, corporate coach and wellness practitioner What were you doing before you moved here? I’ve been in Thailand for 18 years now, but before I moved to Phuket I lived in Pak Nam Pran, near Hua Hin in Prachuab Kiri Khan. I spent much of my time while I was there working on my first book, Provolution, as well as doing a little corporate consultancy and wellness work. How long have you lived on the island? I have been on Phuket since moving here to open Six Senses Destination Spa in October 2007. My wife was pregnant with our first child at the time, and I moved down a couple of months before her. Our son was then born as a true Phuketian in January 2008. What is the best thing about life here? The beaches, sun and great food are obvious, but I also appreciate the blend of Thai and expatriate culture, which means that there is a diversity of options. The fact that Phuket

is now becoming quite a regional hub with convenient flights to and from other major cities and capitals around the region is also cool. It makes living and working here very convenient. What do you do to relax? Actually, what I do professionally is my relaxation, so I’m very lucky in that regard. I love writing, teaching, developing corporate programs and meditation. It’s quite a life. My non-guilty pleasure is watching movies, I suppose. What hobbies or sports are you interested in? I have always followed football and been a fan of my home team Ipswich Town since I can remember. I write songs and play guitar as a hobby and love performing music live when I get the chance. What is your favourite childhood memory? It has to be the many years of Christmas Eve passing into Christmas Day and the tension and excitement that built up

on being professional that every time he would bring a beer to the table he would hold it up against his arm as if allowing us to approve the vintage of a fine wine. We nearly wet ourselves when he did exactly the same thing with a bottle of water.

Exposed as a child. There was nothing like it. I was the youngest of six kids and we all had to wait until our parents were up at 6am before we all went down stairs together to see what Santa had brought. That excitement is absolutely synonymous with my childhood.

Who is the person you admire the most and why? There are so many in the spiritual field like Thich Naht Hanh or the Dalai Lama simply for their incredible compassion and wisdom. But, while it may sound cheesy, I have to say my parents for achievement in the physical world. My wife and I have two children and my parents had six. I simply am in awe of how they did it, paid the bills, stayed sane and are still in love with each and every one of us. Incredible.

Favourite food or dish? I must admit that I am very, very English in this regard and would never pass up a Sunday Roast. I recently went back to the UK for the first time in six years and the generosity of my siblings and friends meant I had three roast dinners in 10 days. Yes, I put on weight. Yes, it was wonderful. What kind of music are you most into? My favourite musician as a young man was, without a shadow of a doubt, Bob Dylan. These days I love Athlete, Coldplay, Keane and a whole lot of British indie. What is the best tip you have for people considering moving to Phuket?

Save lots of money! Phuket is seriously expensive for Thailand at least. And make sure you can drive without dying. The transportation infrastructure does not help mobility. What is the funniest thing

that has happened to you while you’ve been here? Oh where do I start? The one my wife and I still giggle about is our anniversary dinner to an Indian restaurant on the island, which will remain nameless. The waiter was so eager to please and so intent

Where would you take someone on a first date? Well, obviously Soi Bangla is first choice, with McDonalds a very close second. My wife just loves my romantic side. A close third would be Into the Sea at Evason, in Rawai. The rooftop restaurant is just fantastic on a clear night.

HEALTH

Adding extra to ordinary

Within the last week, I have had friends who have gone on an all-day trek in Bali, sailed from Singapore to Phuket, ridden their bike from Phuket to Khao Lak and back, completed their first bike/run session, and entered their first bike race. It seems that every day there are ordinary people achieving ext raordinar y dreams. Some people seem to do it effortlessly, while others struggle to get out the door. But fitness is all relative and what you see is not always what you get; I believe we are all struggling with our own inner demons of what we can achieve and what our limitations are. Watching the Australian Open men’s tennis f inal last night, I was reminded that sometimes it’s nice to have a buddy who believes in us when we have lost faith in ourselves. For Novak and Nadal, they had a team of people who believed in them and gave them the strength to keep fighting when everything in the body

Sometimes we are just aiming to drop a little weight so we can fit into our favourite dress or pair of jeans, or increase our muscle and look good on the beach, or increase our flexibility and core strength for a lover in the bedroom, or maybe just decrease the stress from work or study. Whatever it is, it can all be achieved with just a little faith in you and the courage to begin. Even the journey of a thousand miles that begins with a single step is a better journey with someone by your side. Remember, we all need a little support every now and then, so when you see someone struggling to achieve their goals, give them faith in the knowledge that you believe in them – they may just do the same for you one day. Carpe Diem, Darren Hancock

Newly crowned Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic epitomises the importance of a never-say-die attitude. and soul was screaming at them to just stop. We don’t always need a

whole team of people, sometimes just one single person with unwavering belief can

allow us to achieve something we never thought possible. We don’t all have to win a

tennis Grand Slam to be considered worthy of support, as we are not all aiming to do so.

Darren Hancock is the General Manager of Royal Phuket Marina Health Club, and Exercise and Lifestyle Coach . Contact him at darren@rpmhealthclub.com

thephuketnews.com

18 EDUCATION

THE PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

Studying communication

Advice on the syllabus comes from other universities, media, companies and agencies.

It was a lively morning when the Faculty of Management Sciences of the Phuket Rajabhat University invited lecturers from other universities, plus 20 representatives from the media, large companies and advertising agencies to a morning meeting to announce the new Bachelor of Communication Arts syllabus for its students this year. When asked to open the discussion, both lecturers from the Prince of Songkla University in Phuket and Chulalongkor n University in Bangkok lost no time in giving their constructive critical advice. All was done of course in the informal way that Thais prefer, leisurely and

with much humour from all sides of the room. One piece of relevant advice was the need for this university to be recognised for its strength in certain subject areas, not necessarily in communication arts. There was also the need to network and exchange much more effectively with other universities in the world to reduce the perceived academic isolation of Phuket. The focus was on the 100 or so students a year who were enrolled in the four-year bachelor degree to study subjects such as English, writing, law and ethics, integrated marketing communication, principles of broadcasting, principles of journalism, news reporting and

communication for tourism. Students are able to take par t in inter nships with Phuket companies, to put their theory into practice. Representing The Phuket News, I offered the same internship on behalf of the newspaper. I also informed the meeting of our experience so far that, while some students have expressed interest in coming in to do journalistic work, all fear that their English is not good enough to write with it. The teachers realise the task ahead to increase the students’ level of English language, in time for the ASEAN Economic Community coming into being in 2015. –Norachai Thavisin

LITTLE DRAGONS: Early

Year students at Kajonkietsuksa School started off last week preparing for Chinese New Year. This included talking about the celebrations, including fireworks and exciting dances. The children made Chinese lucky envelopes and joined in a Chinese dragon dance and singing. They also coloured in The Phuket News’ Kids Page contest.

Roy E. Heinecke Foundation scholarship recipients from four schools in Mai Khao.

Scholarship winners Fifty students received Roy E. Heinecke Foundation scholarships last Friday (January 27), at a ceremony hosted by Anantara Phuket Villas. The scholarships are given every year to needy students who have good school records, and this year students from four schools in the Mai Khao area in Phuket’s north were the recipients.

thephuketnews.com

It was the second year that the resort hosted the awards. Each year the foundation gives scholarships to students to help support their education from early learning stages right through to graduation. The foundation is an educational fund established in 1994 in memory of Roy E. Heinecke, father of William E. Heinecke, CEO of

the Minor Group. The late Roy E. Heinecke spent many years serving US embassies in the AsiaPacific region. Being exposed to the cultures of these countries inspired the wish for all deserving youngsters to have the advantage of good education. The family fund aims to fulfill this wish.

THE PHUKET NEWS

PETS 19

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

Popular Pomeranians YOUR BREED by Jackie Perry

his breed is hugely popular in Thailand, where we have some of the finest breeders in the world. Accordingly, locally-bred Pomeranians are winning a slew of international awards, with a great demand for our puppies from top breeders in other countries. The Pomeranian (also known as a Pom) belongs to the family of dogs known as Spitz. It comes from the same lineage as the Siberian Husky, and the old sledge dogs of Iceland and Lapland. The reasons behind its name is probably because there were more breeders in the early days in Pomerania (a region now split between Germany and Poland) than anywhere else in the world. Many of the early Poms were a lot larger than the present dogs, but with dedication the breed has been reduced to the now required size of between 1.5 kilos to 3.2 kilos. The Pomeranian is especially popular with young ladies, who adore it for its long coat, cheeky expression and tiny size. When looking at the ideal Pom you see a compact, short backed very active ‘Toy’ dog. He has a

very cocky attitude and demands constant attention. He is alert and with great intelligence. The head is generally referred to as being “fox like” as he has a short muzzle which is fine but never snipey. His head is slightly rounded when seen from the side but never

domed. His ears are tiny, mounted high on the head and erect. The eyes are dark, bright and almond shaped. The teeth should be in a “scissor” bite i.e. top incisors closing just slightly in front of lower with the canine teeth crossing with the lower incisors in front of the upper.

Adopt a dog

Mussee has been living at the Soi Dog shelter for over a year now and we’d love to find her a new home. She’s friendly, playful and loves going for walks. She’s a very social dog that enjoys human contact and lots of attention. Mussee’s a very pretty female dog, approx. two years old and would make an ideal pet. If you have a good home to offer her, please email cindy@soidog.org for more information or phone the Soi Dog Shelter on 081 788 4222. You can also vist our website www.soidog.org or follow us on Facebook. If you are interested in adopting a dog please do not buy from the markets. Soi Dog Foundation has over 200 dogs and puppies available for adoption at any time. For more information on how to adopt visit soidog.org. All animals are fully-vaccinated and desexed. Young puppies will be desexed free of charge as soon as old enough.

In the showring it is a fault to have overshot or undershot mouth. The Pom has a short back, a short neck and well-set shoulder and rear quarters. The tail is set high on the back and carried flat and high to the neck. This is an important feature of the breed.

The feet are tight and catlike. On the move the Pom is sprightly and moves with great determination. It is a natural showman and just loves to display itself. The coat is double with soft undercoat and harsh long and straight overcoat. It is abundant from the neck and fore parts of the shoulder forming a frill around the shoulders and chest. The head and legs have shorter hair. The forequarters and hinds are well-feathered. All colours and patterns are permitted in this breed. Patterns being black and tan, brindle or parti-colour. Grooming will be required daily to keep this little dog in good coat and condition. A good soft wire brush will be needed to get through the coat but care should be taken when brushing around the eyes so as not to injure them. Do control young children when around the Pomeranian as he is a very small little fellow and can easily be injured by a child who does not know any better. Jackie Perry lives in Phuket but travels around the world as a judge at dog shows. Do you have a question about your dog? You can email Jackie at yourbreed@ thephuketnews.com

Pet of the Week

This cute kitty, named Princess Ming Ming of Mingdom, belongs to Lisa Allen who lives in Rawai. Princess Ming Ming loves sleeping, motorbike baskets, eating and having a good old chat.

Want to see your pet here? Email your photos to: editor1@thephuketnews.com

thephuketnews.com

20 KIDS PAGE

THE PHUKET NEWS

COLOURING CONTEST

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

ach week, colour the picture, have a photo taken with the finished work, and email it to editor@ thephuketnews.com. The best will be published next Friday. Congratulations this week go to Laura Segle, 9, a P2 student at Darasamuth, who is this week’s winner. Sophie says she chose Laura’s work: “For the very clever reflection of the hills in her sunglasses, the beautiful rainbow T-shirt and translation of ‘welcome’. Excellent attention to detail!”

mail@ sophieillustration.co.uk

Viktor Viktorsson, six years old, a Swedish-Bulgarian kindergar ten student at RPIS, Rawai.

thephuketnews.com

Khamil Mamat, 9, a P2 student at Darasamuth.

Kylie May W i l d e, f o u r years old.

Thanks go to all the children at Darasamuth Phuket School, Kajonkietsuksa School, British International School Phuket, and Phuket International Academy for their many fantastic entries. Please keep them coming in, remembering to write your name, age and school on your work.

TIME OUT 21

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

THE PHUKET NEWS BOOK

MUSIC

FILM What’s Your Number? 106 minutes Rating: 13+

Director: Mark Mylod Starring: Anna Faris, Chris Evans, Joel McHale, Martin Freeman

The Fault in Our Stars

Something

John Green Dutton, 336 pages Hazel was only 12 years-old when she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. She was prepared to die until two years later, a medical procedure helped shrink the tumours in her lungs. Despite buying her a few extra years, Hazel remains terminal and is constantly tethered to an oxygen tank. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, her story is about to be completely rewritten. As they slowly bond over their issues and love of books, an unlikely friendship blossoms into a somewhat bumpy romance as they go in search of an author whose book has been an inspiration to Hazel. The Fault In Our Stars has both a big plot twist and a powerful ending. It’s not exactly happy – it’s not that kind of book – but it will linger long and hard in the mind.

Chairlift Columbia

Chairlift’s second album is a significant creative leap, despite on a superficial level still being fairly similar to their debut. On the surface, they’re continuing to mine the untapped corners of 1980s pop for inspiration, and lead singer Caroline Polachek’s vocal style still alternates between the joyfully expressive and charmingly deadpan. But the melodies on Something are bolder, the arrangements have more snap, and Polachek has thankfully moved beyond the first album’s overly cerebral lyrics to explore some more potent emotional issues. Of course, Chairlift aren’t exactly the same group whose 2008 hit ‘Bruises’ found its way into an Apple ad, with founding member Aaron Pfenning having parted. Now a duo, Polachek and Patrick Wimberly have a different chemistry, and as a result, Something is cleaner and more elegant, and just generally better than the debut Does You Inspire You.

What’s Your Number is yet another regrettable entry in the ongoing Hollywood saga of ‘when bad movies happen to good people’. Pretty much everyone in this movie, from star and executive producer Anna Faris (Scary Movie, The Hot Chick, The House Bunny) right down to Andy Samberg (Hot Rod) who is one of many comedic stars to make a brief cameo, is infinitely better than the material on offer. The basic operating principle for the movie is that women have a magic number when it comes to love – 20 to be precise, and if you haven’t found ‘the one’ by the time you’ve slept with that many,

you’re unlikely to. Ever. Ally Darling (Faris) has already reached 20, so decides to revisit her list of ex-lovers, hoping her true love is somewhere among them. As well as being stupid, this concept is also inherently condescending and antiquated. The script is attributed to two women, Gabrielle Allan and Jennifer Crittenden, and based on a novel by a third, Karyn Bosnak, so it’s a little unusual that it subscribes to the notion that a man with a history of promiscuity is ideal husband material, whereas a woman who has slept with 20 can expect to be re-

garded as a whore. But if you don’t take any of it too seriously, which, let’s face it, you’re not supposed to, then there are a few laughs in store. It’s definitely cheesy, but if anything, it’s like a fairly good Camembert. It lacks bite, and it’s fairly cheap, but still has it’s occasions where it’s highly enjoyable. Most of those moments though are through the enthusiasm and comic timing of Faris, and not through any divine intervention on the part of the scriptwriters. You can’t help but feel Faris is an incredibly talented comedic actress who’s just waiting for

the right role to showcase her skills. This is not that role. But as likable as she is, and as charismatic Chris Evans (Captain America) can be, they really don’t make for a good romantic match. It’s hard to root for them to get together because although their characters seem perfectly nice, they don’t seem like they were ever meant to be more than friends. There are other issues as well. The filmmakers don’t seem to know what to do with all the time they’ve got, and they’ve got way too much of it. You really do feel like they’re checking off a list, working hard to get through all the exes even though we know from the outset what the conclusion is going to be. It’s tedious, and kind of pointless. Let’s just hope Faris doesn’t need to make 20 movies like this before she finds ‘the one’. –Dane Halpin

As some movies and movie times change every Thursday morning, after The Phuket News has gone to press, the accuracy of the following information cannot be guaranteed. For up-to-date information, visit sfcinemacity.com, or phone the cinemas directly: SFX Coliseum Phuket 076 209 000 and SFC Jungceylon Phuket 076 600 555.

SFX COLISEUM PHUKET (CENTRAL FESTIVAL) 5 Days of War (E/F) [18+]: 12:25, 14:50, 17:15, 19:40, 22:05 ATM Er Rak Error (T/E.SUB) [G]: 11:15, 12:30, 13:45, 15:00, 16:15, 17:30, 18:45, 20:05, 21:15, 22:30 Panya Renu 2 (T) [G]: 13:40, 15:50, 18:00, 20:10, 22:20 Rak Sudtai Painah (T/E.SUB) [G]: 13:15, 15:30, 17:45, 20:00, 22:15 Underworld: Awakening (E/3D) [15+]: 12:20, 14:20, 16:20, 18:20, 20:20, 22:20 Underworld: Awakening (T) [15+]: 11:20, 13:20, 15:20, 17:20, 19:20, 21:20

SFC JUNGCEYLON PHUKET (PATONG) ATM Er Rak Error (T/E.SUB) [G]:

12:10, 14:40, 17:10, 19:40, 22:10

Contraband (E) [18+]:

12:40, 15:00, 17:20, 19:45, 22:05

Mueng Gu Puen Gun Jon Wan Taai (T) [15+]: 12:00, 14:20, 16:40, 19:00, 21:20 Underworld: Awakening (E) [15+]: 11:30, 12:30, 14:30, 16:30, 18:30, 20:30, 22:30 What’s Your Number (E) [13+]:

13:30, 15:45, 18:00, 20:15, 22:25

BRAIN TEASERS Across 1. Overtaking death. (7) 4. Weapon for right or left limb. (7) 8. Stone has no friend. (4) 9. Cardinals surround quiet channel. (1,1,1,1) 10. Tom’s after a bunch of particles. (5) 13. In vehicle, state manifestation. (11) 16. Diana’s pamphlet may divert attention. (8) 19. Athenian story. (5)

Solutions to last week’s puzzles

21. Treat bream to old resin. (5) 22. Sad kind of bottom to flower. (8) 26. One or the other may change local. (11) 29. Ship’s member takes the point; get ready to pray. (5) 32. Top flier hangs around hospital. What a pain! (4) 33. Pre-Columbian empire on Phi Phi? (4) 34. Lisp low: “New cushions.” (7) 35. Direction to war for your old color. (7) 7. Sticky stuff for Down mother’s twitch. (6) 11. Also excessive. (3) 1. Yield! Goes ahead. 12. Is Ms O’Hara a (8) Red Shirt? (8) 2. Guru traversed 14. Courageous water to one. (5) in shirt for agent’s 3. Fuel prank, they identification. (8) say of the stomach. (7) 15. Gullible, I’m in 4. Nun sat oddly, part of church. (5) getting brown. (6) 17. Sam gets degree in 5. Note not applicable dance. (5) to code material. 18. Check flap. (3) (1,1,1) 20. Note right about 6. Fuss in a party. (3) shiny word list. (8)

23. Hates reluctant cardinals. (7) 24. Fetch truck. (6) 25. Nymphs make ironic commercials. (6) 27. Don’t tell,truth, it’s said, about soap ingredient! (3) 28. Praise erstwhile computer key. (5) 30. Fish points to student. (3) 31. Bathroom learner has two loves. (3)

thephuketnews.com

22 WEIRD WORLD

Irishman builds ‘billion euro home’ – literally

There are a handful of people in the world who can claim their house is worth 1.4 billion euros (B57 billion). But there is only one who can claim his house is made from that amount of money. That honour goes to Frank Buckley, an unemployed Irish artist who has built a home from the shredded remains of 1.4 billion euros. He says the abode is a monument to the “madness” he says has been wrought on Ireland by the single currency, from a spectacular construction boom to a wrenching bust. He built the apartment in the lobby of a Dublin office building that has lain vacant since its completion four years ago at the peak of an ill-fated construction boom, using bricks of shredded defunct euro notes he borrowed from Ireland’s national mint. “It’s a ref lection of the whole madness that gripped

Irish artist Frank Buckley in his ‘billion-euro home’. us,” Buckley said of what he calls his “billion-euro home”. “People were pouring billions into buildings now worth nothing,” he said. “I wanted to create something from nothing.” After Ireland joined the currency zone in the early 2002, a wave of cheap credit helped fuel a huge property bubble that transformed the country. The bubble’s collapse

since 2007 plunged Ireland into the deepest recession in the industrialised world. Buckley says he was given a 100 per cent mortgage at the peak of the boom to buy a 365,000 euro (B15 million) home on the outer reaches of Dublin’s commuter belt, despite the fact he had no steady income. He has since separated from his wife, who lives in

the home which has now lost at least one-third of its value. Living in his ‘billion euro home’ since the start of December, Buckley is working on adding a kitchen to the living room and hall. The walls and floor are covered in euro shreddings and the house is so warm Buckley says he can sleep without a blanket. Pictures made from notes and coins decorate the walls, including one of a house, made from Irish 5 pence pieces. “There are houses in Ireland worth less than that,” Buckley quips. Buckley said he wants Europe’s politicians to solve the euro zone debt crisis without destroying its currency. But if the currency ultimately fails, he will happily use the euro zone’s defunct notes as fodder for future projects. “Whatever you say about the euro, it’s a great insulator.”

Brotherhood of the travelling panties

An impression of what the suspect may have looked like (note: this is not a real ghost). –Photo by Uriel 1998

US man gives police a very transparent alibi When you’re about to be pinged for a domestic assault charge, perhaps it’s natural to get a bit creative with your excuse. But there is a fine line between being creative and downright ridiculous, and a US man has leaped right across it. Police in Wisconsin arrested Michael West, 41, on January 15 after responding to a domestic disturbance call. West’s wife told the cops that her husband twice attempted to strangle her and that he struck her in the face when she attempted to call 911. West initially went with the classic favourite; that his wife sustained injuries as a result of “several falls”. But when a n of f icer pressed the issue, West allegedly got his creative juices flowing and opted for less obvious scenario: “A ghost did it.” However, his explanation doesn’t have a ghost of a chance of getting any support from researchers like Ron James, a filmmaker who

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specialises in the paranormal. “Reports of ghosts attacking people or making them do things are extremely rare and there is no solid evidence to support them,” he said. James said the only way West’s claim might be legit is if the house has had documented paranormal activity, or if West and his wife have been known to have otherworldly entities following them. Or, of course, if West was simply a violent drunk. “If the husband had become possessed by some demonic entity, it certainly could manifest as violent,” James said. “It probably is a case where none of us will ever know for sure, but the cynical side of me says that ‘a ghost made me do it’ is a pretty convenient excuse.” West was arrested and charged with domestic abuse, strangulation, battery, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. We will also throw in an honorary charge at him for being a complete idiot.

Police in Bangkok have apprehended a thief who was driving around with more than 1,000 pairs of women’s underwear in the trunk of his car. In case you were wondering (and I know you were), the underwear were used. Police also found more than 10,000 pairs at the house of the 48-year-old Thai suspect, who was arrested late Tuesday with an accomplice after breaking into a building in Bangkok’s Chinatown.

They said the man admitted to stealing and collecting women’s underwear since the age of 18. “He smelled them all the time, even while driving,” police Major General Saroj Promcharoen said, making no effort to preserve whatever dignity the accused had left. T he s u s p e c t w i l l b e charged with stealing property, though ironically not for the underwear yet because there is no plaintiff, police said.

Italian voters head to the local poles Poles and policies might share some alphabetic similarities, but they’re about to have a lot more in common in the Italian town of Taranto, as porn stars Amandha Fox and Luana Borgia set out to prove that erections can win elections. The pair have arranged a pole dancing night next month when voters can come along to hear about local election issues, although how many will turn up for a keen policy discussion is unclear. Agent Mimmo Pavese said: “We want to be fair so we would like to invite any other candidate to come along and dance too.” Fox added: “I want voters to see the real me”, and judging by her previous career, she’s not too afraid to reveal herself in full.

Amandha Fox: Pole-itician. It’s not yet clear if the other candidates are interested in taking up the challenge, or indeed even if the town’s voters want to see their future leader in such a compromising position. Needless to say, our money goes on a renewed interest in politics in Taranto.

THE PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

THE BIG LIST Unusual Abodes Unlike Frank Buckley, not all of us have a billion euros casually sitting around to turn into a house. Sure, you could use a billion Vietnamese Dong, but it doesn’t have quite the same ring to it. So here are some more suggestions on how your home can make a serious statement. Park(ing) views: The economy is tough, and we all have to cut back. For most people, that means going out less or securing a lucrative second job in the organ-harvesting market. To others, it means building your entire home in a parking space so tight you might circle the block to look for a better one. Thirty-nineyear-old Japanese Fuyuhito Moriya decided to do just that, saving a lot of money and even more virginity by purchasing a 30-square-metre parking space in Tokyo on which to build a three-story home for himself – and his mother. Timbeeeerr! Believe it or not, this thing that appears to be a gigantic, ancient, haunted house in mid-collapse is in fact an inhabitable home. And it looks like that on purpose. Located in the Siberian town of Arkhangelsk, it’s believed to be the tallest wooden dwelling in the world, towering 13-stories and seemingly defying several laws of physics by not toppling over every time somebody leans on it. Nikolai Sutyagin built the entire house himself by hand mostly from scrap lumber. He said the house was originally intended to only be two stories, but looked “ungainly”, so he just kept building, which probably isn’t a technique recommended by most architectural schools. Skinny living: Well, clearly this is just a picture of a house in construction. That white structure is just one of the walls of a full house to be built later, right? Nope, turns out that’s an entire house, the thinnest one in the world in fact. The house measures only about a metre wide at the front, expanding to a roomy two metres across at its widest point. Despite being narrower than a lot of human beings, this Brazilian house manages to pack in two living rooms, three bedrooms and a kitchen. Standing room only: This house is cutely titled ‘Just Room Enough’. At first sight, it looks a picture taken 30 seconds before somebody died in a flood, but the structure is actually built on an island exactly the size of the house. Located on the American side of the St. Lawrence River, ‘Just Room Enough’ was bought by the Sizeland family in the 1950s. They purchased the little parcel of land in the hopes of having somewhere to go to to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and they figured an inaccessible island fortress with literally no earth around it on which strangers could stand would work nicely. Instead, due to the novelty of the house, the island quickly became a tourist magnet. Room with a view: This is just one example of the typical dwelling used by the Korowai tribe of Papua New Guinea, who had no idea the outside world even existed until 1970. Instead of building treehouses five metres off the ground for their kids, stalling out halfway through and just living with a plank in their trees for the next few decades, the Korowai build their treehouses like real men: To the finish, and up to 60 metres in the air. They do this to avoid predators, floods and ant swarms, and because it just looks so awesome. A long way down if you need the loo though.

THE PHUKET NEWS

SHOPPING 23

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

LIFE&STYLE

Taking to the hills

Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands > 27

fashion file Have an outfit to show off? Send a photo to:

editor@thephuketnews.com

Chic chick Maple Anthony Interior designer

The statement turquoise necklace was a gift from a friend. Her little black dress (B400) was made by a tailor in Patong. She ordered her pink bracelet (B18,000) f rom local brand Donna Collection. Her shoes (B800) were bought at a stall in Central Festival.

Ms Charming Napaphorn Saetan Marketing executive She picked up her FQ&L half polkadot dress (B1,000) from Central Festival. The Gucci watch (B16,000) was bought from a shop in Siam district, Bangkok. Her stylish yet comfy Aldo shoes (B1,200) were bought at a shop in Central Festival.

Absolutely fabulous A new boutique clothing store recently opened up by Laguna is promising to help ladies feel fabulous. Me & Malisa: The Dressing Room is the brainchild of Panatta “Mam” Bunthanom and Malisa Darbhatisha, and is dedicated to clothing, accessories, hats, homeware, art and furniture. Khun Panatta has worked as the JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa’s creative consultant for the last eight years, and since she was 20 years-old has been somehow involved in the design industry. She once worked as a creative consultant for Anantara, plus was the creative assistant at Bed Supperclub in Bangkok for eight years. The new shop is a way for her to express her creativity. Me & Malisa houses simple, st ylish clothi ng from Bangkok designer Kittikorn Kongtabag, selling for anywhere from B2,000 to B14,000. Meanwhile, jewellery sourced from various designers in Thailand ranges from chunky stone necklaces to sparkly crystal pieces; distinctive art by Bangkok-based Khun Opex costs around B15,000 to B30,000, with

Me & Malisa sells distinctive stone and shell jewellery.

Panatta “Mam” Bunthanom, left and Malisa Darbhatisha, jointly run Me & Malisa. f lower arrangements also available upon request. In her other role as stylist, Khun Panatta can help women find an outfit and accessories for that special occasion. If you purchase clothes from the store, a makeover comes

free of charge. Women interested are invited in for a chat – or champagne – first, so Khun Panatta can get a feel for your personality. “I love dressing up a woman and making them feel fabulous,” she says.

The store will hold its official opening on February 14 at 6.30pm, and will feature two fashion shows. –31 Lagoon Road, Cherngtalay, 076-270-846, meand malisa@gmail.com; www. facebook.com/meandmalisa

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24 DINING

THE PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

One for Thai food lovers

Above, Somchart “Joke” Payoonpitak prepares the Thai buffet at the resort. Below, Chef Joke is most famed for his delicious version of nam prik, or chilli paste.

The Golden Tulip Mangosteen Resort and Spa in Rawai has launched a Thai Food Lovers Night every Thursday at the resort. Managing Director Hajo von Keller said the event was first launched several weeks ago when new head chef, Somchart “Joke” Payoonpitak arrived from Khao Yai. For B400 (B340 if you hold a Rawai-Nai Harn Business Association card) you can eat from a buffet consisting of many traditional Thai dishes, including northern curry, chicken with cashew nuts, spicy mushroom salad, prawns wrapped in crispy noodles, and deep-fried morning glory. Chef Somchart says the food is traditional food, cooked using fresh vegetables which are delivered daily from the local market. He started his

Deep fried morning glory – a new take on an old favourite. first job at age 20 at the Dream Hotel in Bangkok, where he was a kitchen hand. Prior to that he worked in his parents’ Thai restaurant in Bangkok. “I did not go to any training college to be a chef, but cooking is my passion,” he said. Chef Somchart is most famed for his nam prik, chilli paste, which he makes fresh from minced pork, fresh prawns, palm sugar, galengal,

kaffir lime leaves, lemon and other ingredients. “Even though I am only 28 years old, I have lots of experience and lots of things to show.” Golden Tulip Mangosteen Resort and Spa’s Thai Food Lovers Night, Thursdays, 7pm to 9.30pm, bookings recommended. See www. goldentulipmangosteen.com

An Asian take on a French classic STREET EATS The recent Wat Chalong fair attracted thousands of visitors, and hundreds of food vendors to feed them. Out of all the stalls, one in particular attracted hordes of children who wanted to sample a Japanese crepe. This stall was decorated in paper cones painted with various Japanese cartoon characters. Traditionally, crepes are part of French cuisine, but the Japanese love them almost as much, and have developed their own distinctive style of making them. As with all things made in Japan, Thailand has taken this treat to its heart, with shops and vendors across the Kingdom selling the sweet-tasting snack.

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Phanaphat “Tid” Sawatsri cooks her Japanese crepes. Phanaphat “Tid” Sawatsri has been a Japanese crepe vendor for one year, after wanting a change of career. Despite initial appearances, this dessert is not easy to cook, she says. “There are several types of Japanese crepe – crispy, soft, rolled or folded. As such,

every vendor has their own individual way of cooking them” Ms Phanaphat says. “My ones are quite crispy. I learned this style from another vendor, who taught me how to spread the ingredients in the pan just right. If it is not spread well, it may be sticky or uncooked.”

The crepes are made from wheat flour, egg, fresh milk, sugar butter and salt. Ms Phanaphat says the ingredients are first spread on a flat hot plate, then filled with various toppings before finally folding it into a triangle shape, and serving in a paper cone. Fillings can be savoury or sweet. Examples of the former include baked fish, crab meat, chilli paste, shredded pork, and sausage; while vanilla, pandanus, and jam are popular for those with a sweet tooth. “Kids generally order the crepes sweet, while adults order them spicy,” she says. Now that the Wat Chalong fair is over, you can find Ms Phanaphat’s stall at the market fair, opposite Thepnimitra Temple on Chao Fa Road, every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, 3pm to 7pm. -Sukunya Phoonpong

French chef Edouard Loubet cooks at The Boathouse.

Starry dinner The Boathouse in Kata welcomes French chef Edouard Loubet, who will host a wine dinner tomorrow evening (February 4) at the restaurant. Chef Loubet is the head chef and owner of the two-star Michelin Restaurant “La Bastide de Capelongue” in Bonnieux, southeastern France. Chef Loubet’s restaurant was

awarded the Michelin star when he was aged 26, the youngest person ever to own a restaurant with this award. Chef Loubet is known for his creativity blending in the flavours, aromas and colours of his native region. The dinner is priced at B4,000++ including wine pairing.

THE PHUKET NEWS

DINING 25

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

A dream lunch

Owner and head ice-cream maker at Samero’s Ice-cream Paradise, Wolfgang Sameros.

European icecream treats Stepping inside Samero’s Icecream Paradise in Patong is so similar to going into an European ice-cream parlour, with its black and white chequered floors, a sparkling chandelier, marble tables, and black and cream bar stools, that you could forget you are just a few streets away from busy Bangla Rd. The ice-cream store, decorated in red and white trim, sells more than 20 ice-cream flavours, plus daily specialties such as Kibana, a kiwi banana mix, or pineapple-basil. There are more than 50 different creations on the menu, and if you still can’t find something you like, you can design your own. Prices start at B49 for one scoop, up to B300 for the “Mount Everest” – a whopping eight scoops. One unique recipe straight from Vienna is the ice spaghetti, where ice-cream is put through a special press and comes out looking exactly like pasta – kids love it, I’m told. After working as a communications engineer for 15 or so years in Vienna, Austria, owner and head ice-cream maker Wolfgang Sameros

A pleasant dream of this media worker is to be invited to the feast that the Maikhao Dream Resort and Spa laid on for its Sunday brunch at NaTai Beach in Phang Nga recently. T he resor t’s Ger man Executive Chef Robert Mujagic held up a couple of lobsters in each hand to be photographed and, appropriately for Chinese New Year, a crispy dark-red roasted suckling pig was ready for guests. A Thai chef was preparing his specialty, grilling tender lamb chops and beef steaks that had been marinated in western herbs that were spreading their aromatic invitation far and wide. The buffet counters started outside and led you inside the surfside restaurant pavillion where soups, salads, cold meats and sweets just stretched away on all sides. There were big cut portions of very large crabs from Alaska, packed with thick cool white flesh that was simply delicious with chilled Chilean white wine. Thick pieces of suckling pork were served with a Chinese sauce, crackling on top and oh-so-tender underneath, a highlight of the outstanding lunch. –Norachai Thavisin

Above, the pork is nearly ready. Below, German Executive Chef Robert Mujagic holds the lobsters, the catch of the day.

How do you even start to choose between the flavours? decided to change his career. Mr Sameros spent two months at Carpigianin Icecream university in Italy, learning the trade and how to make traditional European ice-cream, also known as gelato, before moving to Phuket. The store was opened in October 2010. “Now my customers smile at me, and children come in with big eyes. It’s a great job,” he says. Ice-cream is made regularly and is not frozen, so it has more f lavour, texture, and taste, he says. The only ingredients are fresh milk, cream, mineral water, lots of

fresh fruits and sugar – no powder or preservatives. The ice-cream is also sold from an environmentally-friendly cart, driven around Patong. The cart was designed by Mr Sameros and the ice-cream is kept cool through electricity generated a on-board compressor, powered by a 80 watt solar panel. Perfect for those hot afternoons relaxing on the beach. –Claire Connell S a me ro’s Ic e - c re a m Paradise, 92 Sainamyen Rd, Patong, 087-468-5456, sameros.icecream@gmail. com, www.sameros.com

thephuketnews.com

26 EXPLORE

THE PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

PHUKET MUSEUMS Chinpracha House

This elegant colonial-style mansion was completed in 1907 by wealthy Chinese immigrant Tan Ma Siang. Chinpracha House is one of the most integral ancient remains on the island. Old photographs, Italian floor tiles, imported furniture from China and old utensils are wellmaintained in the house’s interior. 98 Krabi Rd, Phuket Town, 076 211 281. Open daily 8am4pm. B100.

Kathu Mining Museum

Match made in heaven Wedding dreams might become reality as Aleenta Resorts launches its tailor-made guide to tying the knot in Thailand – offering useful tips, valuable insights and some wonderfully unique ideas and venues for intimate beachfront weddings. The Aleenta Weddings book offers a creative and completely a la carte experience

for couples, who are guided through a host of imaginative and fun concepts at destinations known for their natural beauty, privacy and kilometres of golden sands. Dedicated personal wedding planners are on hand at the award-winning Aleenta Phuket-Phang Nga and Aleenta Hua Hin-Pranburi resorts, to

offer couples the opportunity to release rare turtles, breakfast onboard a long-tail boat, stroll along the beach with a baby elephant, or simply say “I do” over a quiet glass of champagne. The book caters to anything from two people up to 100, as couples can choose from venues such as Grand

Villa Air, a picturesque beachfront house, or Grand Villa Satis where 80 guests can roam the gardens that spill onto a 20km stretch of pristine beach – offering intimacy, style, privacy and and above all a day to remember. “This book is a celebration of one of the most important days of our lives – our wedding

day,” says Aleenta Resorts managing director Anchalika Kijkanakorn, who held her own wedding at Aleenta Phuket-Phang Nga. “Our resorts are made for celebrations, and we’re thrilled to be able to offer this book that will ... make each and every wedding dream a reality.” See www.aleenta.com

TRAVEL NEWS ■■ Don Muang airport reopens in March

Airports of Thailand (AoT) discounts fees for airlines and business operators at Don Muang Airport in a move to restore operations after floods closed the airport since October 26. Relief measures, approved by the AoT board, will cost the company around B110 million in revenue from October 25, 2011 to March 25 this year. Nok Air and Orient Thai Airlines moved to Suvarnabhumi Airport and pay standard parking and landing fees to Suvarnabhumi Airport. AoT bills them for space rental and service fees at Don Mueang at B325 per sqm per month plus 15 per cent of the amount for service fees. Usually, they pay B450 per sqm per month. The two airlines will also pay B16 per passengers for partly-used boarding pass check system,

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instead of the full price of B25. The board also approved a budget of B440.5 million for repairs to runways, taxiways and parking bay use. AoT says it will open the airport March 6 allowing airlines to use the eastern runway. The western runway will open in April. ■■ T H A I S m i l e t o f l y to Macau from July

Thai Smile, a light premium airline due for launch this July, will serve Macau as its first destination according the Thai Airways International president, Piyasvasti Amranand. He was addressing 80 travel executives attending PATA’s first Hub City Forum held at the Landmark Hotel earlier this week. THAI Smile is part of the airline’s latest strategic positioning that calls for the airline to be more competitive with low-cost and Middle East airlines that have eroded THAI’s yield and market

share. ■■ Nok Air adds services Nok Air last week increased services to Nakhon Phanom to double daily and started a new interprovincial link between Phitsanulok and Chiang Mai. Nok Air added a morning flight to its SuvarnabhumiNakhon Phanom service, lifting daily frequency to two. The new flight departs Bangkok at 0820 and returns from the Northeast border province at 1000. The other flight departs in the afternoon at 1350 and returns at 1600. Currently, Nok Air is the sole operator on the route, but Thai AirAsia last year announced it will introduce a new service to Nakhon Phanom from February 15. Nok Air uses Boeing 737400s with 168 seats and supplies 2,352 seats per sector, per week. The airline is using Suvarnabhumi Airport until Don Muang reopens. T hai A i rA sia’s new daily service, using A320s, will operate permanently from Suvarnabhumi Airport and offer 1,260 seats a week per sector. Nok Air’s new interprovincial service, PhitsanulokChiang Mai, operates three times a week using a 33-seat

Saab340 aircraft. Operating Monday, Friday and Sunday, the flight departs Phitsanulok at 1000 and returns from Chiang Mai at 1440. Kan Air was the sole operator serving Phitsanulok from its base in Chiang Mai. It offers three services a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday using a smaller 12seat Cessna Grand Caravan. ■■ Pattaya will host PTT tennis tournament Pattaya will once again welcome professional female tennis players to the PTT Pattaya Open Tennis Tournament, 5 to 12 February at Dusit Thani Hotel, Pattaya. Now in its 21st year, the event is the longest running tennis event in the country organised by the Women’s Tennis Association. Around 80 professional female tennis players will compete at the eight-day event for prize money worth US$220,000 or around B6.8 million. According to the host, Pentangle Promotions, the 21st PTT Pattaya Open should attract 3,000 to 4,000 visitors a day at the three tennis courts. Qualifying rounds begin February 5 followed by the main draw February 6 to 12.

Top female tennis players will attend the competition such as Vera Zvonareva from Russia, now making her fourth appearance in Pattaya. She will defend her title this year. On the sidelines of the PTT Pattaya Open, there are numerous activities such as support for beach reclamation at Pattaya Bay and hosting tennis clinics. Tickets cost from B300 to B1,200, depending on the tournament rounds. For further information, visit http:// tiny.cc/v3gwe. Originally the competition was sponsored by Volvo as the Pattaya Women’s Open Tennis Tournament back in 1991, with a prize purse of just US$75,000. It was upgraded in 2001 to be part of a new international series of tournaments, which have minimum prize money of US$220,000 and renamed to reflect its main sponsor PTT Public Company. The 2011 PTT Pattaya Open is co-sponsored by PTT Group and Pattaya City. Today it is part of the WTA Tour for professional women tennis players, equivalent to the ATP World Tour 250 series. –TTR Weekly

Built according to colonial architecture, imitating a mansion of a tin miner, the museum shows the origins of Phuket’s culture and history especially from the mining era. Several indoor exhibition rooms display different themes such as Phuket architecture, mining , T h ai - C hin e s e way of life, Chinese immigrants’ life, the Baba’s marriage and the solar system. The outdoor exhibition displays equipment including a dredge and hydraulic mining gear. Muang Tor Sung Rd (behind Loch Palm Golf Club), Kathu, 088 766 0962. Open daily 9am4pm. B50 for Thais, B100 for foreigners, children half-price.

Philatelic Museum

The museum is in the old preserved Post Office, housing old equipment such as telegraph tickers, telephones, parcel-weighing machines and collections of Thai stamps issued since 1951. There are also a small library and a souvenir room. Phuket Post Office, Montri Rd, Phuket Town, 076 224 883. Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-4.30pm. Sat 9am-12pm. Free entrance.

Seashell Museum

Over 2,000 species of sea shells that were collected by the Patamakanthin family are now displayed in the museum. The collection includes fossils dating back 380 million years, rare golden pearls, giant clams and left-handed Noble Volute shells. 2/2 Moo 2, Viset Rd, Rawai, 076 613 666; www.phuketsea shell.com. Open daily 8.30am5.30pm. B100 for Thais, B200 for foreigners, children half-price.

Thai Hua School Museum

The museum is in what used to be the main Chinese-language school, built in 1934. Classrooms inside were renovated as exhibition rooms, displaying Phuket Thai-Chinese culture and tradition of the past and present. 28 Krabi Rd, Phuket Town, 076 211 224; www.thaihua museum.com. Open daily 9am5pm. B50 for Thai, B200 for foreigners, add extra fee for photograph.

Thalang National Museum

The museum focuses on the history and archaeology of Phuket and nearby provinces. Archaeological finds such as ancient statues, pre-historic beads and tools are on view here. On 4027 Road (east of the Heroines monument), Thalang, 076 379 895. Open daily except public holiday 9am-4pm. B20 for Thai, B100 for foreigners.

Thavorn Hotel Lobby Museum

Located in the walkway from the lobby to the dining room of the Thavorn Hotel, this small museum corner shows old photographs, posters, ornaments, utensils and mining tools from the Phuket’s mining era and World War II, collected by the owner of the hotel. 74 Rassada Road, Phuket Town, 076 211 333. Open daily 8am5pm. B30.

THE PHUKET NEWS

TRAVEL 27

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

A very cool Christmas “L

et’s have Christmas somewhere cool,” said someone in the family. “Where?” was the next logical question. “How about the Cameron Highlands?” said I, reviving pleasant memories of a few cool and picturesque days spent on that elevated valley in the Malaysian mountains many years ago. The late-evening Air Asia flight lifted off from Phuket airport, taking us on a twohour flight on this rather crazy rushed long-weekend trip to Kuala Lumpur. Even the long walk from our aircraft to Air Asia’s own bustling terminal, which is separate from the KL international one, did not dampen our enthusiasm for this short break in a different country. Nor was the fact that the airport was some 60 kilometres from the city, meaning we still had an hour and a half of late-night bus travel in front of us to reach the business district of the city where we had booked our little hotel for the night. For late Thursday night, KL was alive with diners eating in the many bright street restaurants that wafted delightful aromas into the warm night. We were sur prised to come across one cosy street as liberally supplied with ladyboys as Bangla Rd. Our view of the green and pleasant capital the next day was mostly from the windows of the monorail and a suburban train, as we headed for our weekend rental car. But the pace of the city was definitely slower and more relaxed. If only Bangkok were like this. On the pleasant three-hour

It’s tea and more tea at the popular Boh Tea Plantation where you can sip steaming cups on the hilltop balcony in the distance (above), or simply enjoy the cool air (below).

Hungry hotel guests serve themselves from the bumper Christmas Eve buffet of ham, turkey and plum pudding. drive to the highlands, the comfortable black Malaysianmade Proton Saga cruised easily on the freeway north and climbed the mountain on the narrow winding road that was quite a historical engineering feat, cutting through tall dense tropical jungle. As the traffic thickened we began to realise that many, many Malaysian families had also said to themselves that, for the long-weekend holiday, they too would spend Christmas in the Cameron Highlands. Traffic was bumper-to-bumper on the narrow roads. But the little village of Tanah Rata was as I remember it. The row of old colonialstyle shops on its main street always reminded of old photos of Darjeeling or Simla where the British colonial rulers and plains people escaped up to cool air and mountain views. One memorable meal was relived at the Mutiara Indian street restaurant that I had

visited before: fresh-made roti, mutton and vegetable curries of all sorts and friendly staff warmly welcomed us. The oddly-named multistorey Hotel de la Ferns, with its faux Tudor facade, gave us a fantastic room, high up. Mist blew across the balcony, which looked along the lush valley of this veritable Eden. A green golf course nestled among trees. Pine trees in the little village park bordered a clear mountain stream, and cosy houses with their white plaster and black timber imitation Tudor architecture hid away in the misty jungle at vantage points on hill tops. England is far away but a valley of it has been lovingly duplicated here. Christmas Eve saw well-todo Indian, Chinese and Malay families enjoying traditional Christmas dinners offered at all the guesthouses and hotels, complete with turkey

Roti and vegetable curries, anyone? Yes please says this writer, for old time’s sake.

and plum pudding, if not much ham – this is, after all a Muslim country. A bright-green valley, patterned by low tea bushes as far as the eye could see provided a picturesque backdrop to the steaming cups of the best that the old Boh Tea Plantation could offer. Tea pickers were “pluck-

ing” away in the distance. Strawberries were overflowing from the tunnels of plastic greenhouses in nearby plantations, in this mountain land of plenty. Walking among hills rising to the mist, we were very grateful for our very cool Cameron Christmas. –Norachai Thavisin

GETTING THER E: Air Asia f lies from Phuke t to Kuala Lumpur for less than B2,000 one way. Car rental is B1,500 a day, andpetrol in Malaysia is cheaper. WHERE TO STAY: A double room at the Hotel De La Ferns (hoteldelaferns.com. my) cost about B5,000 a night.

Surprisingly, flowering cactuses love the cold climate in these high and misty hills.

thephuketnews.com

28 ISLAND SCENE

With faces painted in green and gold, Carly Gerrard, from Adelaide, and Scott Tencic, from Canberra, get into the Australia Day spirit at the Aussie Bar on Bangla Road, Patong.

THE PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

From left, Jordan, Craig and Rhonda Wykes, and Chantelle Barnett from NSW relax.

ustralians celebrated in style around Phuket on their national day on January 26.

Australia Day commemorates the 224th anniversary since the first fleet of British convict ships landed in Sydney Cove

on January 26, 1788. And what better way to celebrate it than with a nice cold drink in the sunny climes of Phuket?

From left, Expat Hotel patron Bill Deamer, owner Paul James and Expat Hotel sports bar manager Martyn Gathergood say “Cheers” to a good day well spent.

Front left, Sue Usher from Lady Pie with friends. The bakery held a Australian dinner and screened the Australian movie ‘Red Dog’ to celebrate their national day.

Sporting national attire, Linda Webber, Scott Gilbert and Lauren Webber proudly show off their Australian tattoos at the Aussie Bar on Bangla Road, Patong.

thephuketnews.com

Candice Richardson from Victoria, and Neil, the owner of Lilly’s Aussie Bar in Patong.

THE PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

ISLAND SCENE 29

RED IS THE COLOUR: Thousands celebrated Chinese New Year in style during the Phuket Old Town Festival, from January 28-30. The event was a success, with entertainment, food, handicrafts and clothes on offer.

YEAR OF THE DRAGON: The staff at Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket dressed up in traditional Chinese clothing to celebrate the start of Chinese New Year.

IN HIGH SPIRITS: Thousands of people flocked to the Wat Chalong Fair last week for food and fun at the annual festival, which raises money for the temple complex.

thephuketnews.com

30 ENTERTAINMENT

And now for something completely different... At just 24, Sam Clarke may not look like your average expert on classic rock. But looks can be deceiving. Sam has recently arrived on Phuket to join the team behind the island’s newest English-language radio station, Live 89.5 FM, as their full time Music Director. He has spent the last six years refining his broadcasting skills in the radio studios of Melbourne, starting out at SYN 90.7FM where he wrote, produced and presented three of his own shows as well as creating the station’s playlists. As he puts it, he was creating “irreverent comedy shows. We modelled ourselves loosely on The Ricky Gervais Show. I’m not going to say Pythonesque though, because that would be presumptuous.” Presumptuous Sam is not, but colourful he certainly is. A self-confessed larrikin in his younger years, he said he had a habit of disrupting any drama production or academic class he went near. It was a friend who approached him and suggested they instead inject that energy into the airwaves.

thephuketnews.com

Live 89.5 music director Sam Clarke: ‘I’m not going to say Python-esque, because that would be presumptuous.’ But six years on and having outgrown the role in Melbourne, it was time to venture further abroad. “There are so many reasons why Phuket. This island and this station [Live 89.5] is an amazing place to be. There’s an energy that makes you feel the place is about to really shoot up, and it’s a great opportunity to be a part of that. “Coming to Phuket has

been an eye opening experience,” he said, though when you’re given a tour of Soi Bangla on your first night courtesy of 89.5 FM station manager Ryan Jon, it’s pretty hard to keep your eyes closed. But as overwhelming as it has been to live abroad for t he f i r st t i me, Sa m said he has strong support from back home. “My parents were happy

for me. Apprehensive obviously, but all things considered they took it quite well. “In a weird way my parents were the ones that got me into music. They’ve always been into gigs, and I guess that was my first introduction to some of the music this station plays: classic rock.” So as the new Music Director, what changes can we expect to hear on the playlist? “In terms of music, it’s not hard to find good stuff from the 70s, 80s and 90s. “If you’re from that era, it’s going to be music that you grew up listening to.” Sam will also be hosting the late show on Live 89.5 from next week, and there should be plenty of laughs in store all night long. “It’s always difficult to describe your own humour to someone. It’s gonna be quirky. “You want your show to stand out... and to offer something new, but you don’t want to be so lewd that people don’t know what’s going on. “Whoever’s on the other end of the mic, whoever’s listening, I want them to have fun with it. I certainly will be.”

THE PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

WEEKDAYS The Breakfast Club

Ryan Jon

7am til 11am

Lunch with Jenny

Jenny

11am til 3pm

Drive on LIVE

Jason Wilder

3pm til 7pm

The Night Ritual

Sam Clarke

7pm til 10pm

Box Of Neutrals

Rob James, Peter McGinley, and Michael Lamonato

9am til 10am

SATURDAY Saturday Morning Glory Phuket News Radio Dazed and Confused

Sam Clarke and Ryan Jon Ryan Jon, Jason Wilder, Alasdair Forbes, Simon Ostheimer Bongo Bob and Baba Fats

10am til 12pm 12pm til 1pm 1pm til 4pm

Going Green

Nick Anthony

4pm til 6pm

Saturday Night Fever

DJ Burt

6pm til 11pm

SUNDAY Phuket News Radio

Ryan Jon, Jason Wilder, Alasdair Forbes, Simon Ostheimer Jenny

9am til 10am

1pm til 4pm

Jason Blues Show

Bongo Bob and Baba Fats Jason Wilder

Absolute Jazz

Doug Styles

7pm til 9pm

Saturday Night Fever

DJ Burt

6pm til 11pm

Sunday Brunch Dazed and Confused

10am til 1pm

4pm til 7pm

www.phuketliveradio.com Tel: 076-612-895, 090-490-7895

THE PHUKET NEWS

LUXURY 31

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

LUXURY PHUKET

The dictionary defines luxury as “a material object, or service conducive to sumptuous living”, while Wikpedia states: “Luxury goods are products and services not considered essential but are associated with affluence. The concept of luxury has been present in various forms since the beginning of civilisation. Its role was just as important in ancient western and eastern empires as it is in modern societies.” On this new page, we’ll promote the very best in luxury living on Phuket, whether it be a yacht, jet, car, watch, fashion, or jewellery – so read on, and enjoy the Phuket luxe life.

Wahoo Luxury Yacht Charters T her e i s no b et ter way to appreciate the Andaman Sea, with its crystal clear waters and some of the most stunning scenery in the world than on a private charter yacht with Wahoo Luxury Yacht Charters. Wahoo - Phuket’s favorite private yacht charter company offers

an unforgettable cruising, game fishing or diving experience in Phi Phi, Phang Nga, Krabi and beyond Your magical day begins with a warm Thai welcome from their on-board service team, who will ensure you are pampered to the fullest extent throughout the day, leaving you to relax, enjoy a

refreshing swim or explore on the Jet Ski and Sea Canoes. Their sumptuous food menus are all freshly prepared on board, allowing you to dine al fresco in beautiful surroundings, with every possible luxury taken care of. Email info@wahoo.ws, visit www. wahoo.ws or call 076 281 510,

thephuketnews.com

32 EVENTS

THE PHUKET NEWS

WHAT’S ON IN PHUKET FEBRUARY 2-4

List your events here for as low as B99 per line, or online at www.thephuketnews.com/events.php

FEBRUARY 14

Wahoo Thailand 2012 Sport Fishing Tournament This is Thailand’s largest-ever international sport fishing tournament. Prize money totalling over B3,000,000 (US$100,000). Boats and teams are filling fast. For further information, contact Warren Crowe on 081 270 4291 or email: info@rawaibeachfishingclub.com.

Come and enjoy Valentine’s the Irish way. Three course meal with wine only B995 per couple. Live music from the Roaring Bhoys Laguna Phuket. Bookings 081 728 1010.

FEBRUARY 5

FEBRUARY 14

Valentines Day @ The Craíc

The main attraction of the day is the Great Rubber Duck race, where 2,000 ducks are released into the canal and race to the Lagoon Entrance. The first ducks to cross the line will be collected. Many excellent prizes have been donated to the event. Contact claire@ironkidsphuket.com.

FEBRUARY 10 Exclusive Dinner at Trisara Alain Rougie joins us with 30 years experience in gastronomy, and is celebrated as the world’s leading Foie Gras producer. Aperitif and dinner commence at 6.30pm. B4,500++ per person, with wine pairing. Contact: events@trisara.com, 076 310 100.

Basketball Skills Camp at BIS

Record Breaking Mass Wedding at Promthep Cape The island is aiming to break the national record for the �� biggest mass wedding on Valentine’s Day next year. The Thai traditional style mass wedding for 108 couples will occur at Laem Promthep, the best sunset in Thailand. Other activities include offering alms to 99 Buddhist monks and planting trees as part of a schedule running from February 12-15, 2012. Special package (one day) B7,000 per couple on the wedding day Febuary 14, 2012. Contact Suanluang Inter Wedding 076 221 976, email: info@ interwedding phuket.com. See interwed dingphuket.com.

FEBRUARY 16 Phuket Int Blues Rock Festival

Exclusive Dinner at Trisara

thephuketnews.com

FEBRUARY 18-19

FEBRUARY 24-25

FEBRUARY 12 Located at the foothills of the Mayacamas, Dominus Estate is the Napa Valley property of Christian Moueix who also owns Petrus. The estate’s Bordeaux varieties are uniquely refined expressions of this special terroir. Aperitif and dinner commence at 6.30pm. B3,500++ per person. Contact: events@trisara.com, 076 310 100.

accompanied by BIS’s very own Merja Makivirta on the piano and supported by talented students from BIS will set the Phuket night aglow with an ensemble of popular operatic arias and classical pieces. Julie-Anne has sung many operatic roles in Europe including Susanna in Marriage of Figaro, Musetta in La Boheme and Zerbinnetta in Ariadne auf Naxos. Donation: B1,500 for the performance, 3 glasses of wine or beer and canapés. Dress: Cocktail. Email contact: surangt@bi sphuket.ac.th or tina@phukethasbeengoodtous.org. Call 080 143 9554. All proceeds from the event will be donated to Phuket Has Been Good To Us, enabling them to continue to teach English to over 850 Thai students in government schools.

Former NBA star Ike Nwankwo and his Top Flight Basketball Academy will be at the British International School to run a basketball camp on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th February. This camp is the first of its kind in Phuket and an amazing opportunity to learn from the best coaching team in Thailand. Price: B3500 includes lunches, refreshments and a T-shirt. The camp is open to ages 9-18 years old. Limited spaces so enroll now! Contact Tim Pearson on 082 776 4464, www.bisphuket.ac.th. Email: tpearson@bisphuket.ac.th.

The Great Rubber Duck Race Hosted by Laguna Phuket and organised by the Phuket Community Foundation (PCF), the event will be held at Latitude, Laguna Phuket from 12pm-5pm, with many attractions for the whole family. There will be food stalls inside the tent by some of the best suppliers on the island, many games for children offered and run by the international schools of Phuket, cardboard box races, and dragon boat racing for teams of 12+.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

A Starlight Soiree International Opera Star, Julie-Anne Hunter,

Get ready for the 7th annual Phuket International Blues Rock Festival – South East Asia’s biggest – in Laguna Phuket. This Festival will be the biggest ever with 12 acts. This global fiesta will feature musicians from USA, Canada, UK, Australia, Malaysia & Sweden, tremendous music and plenty of food and drink. Headline act is the American blues artist/actor who has sold more records and appeared in more movies than than any other blues performer this century: Chris Thomas King! Contact Andy on 086 682 2639, www.phuketbluesfestival.com, email: phuketmusic@yahoo.com.

THE PHUKET NEWS

EVENTS 33

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

WHAT’S ON IN PHUKET FRIDAY

IBAP Networking Meeting Monthly networking meeting see http:// ibap-phuket.org.

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Pool Competition Pool Competition at 9pm. Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www. expatsportsbar.com.

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Chef’s Table at Paresa Recipe by Ryan is an innovative culinary dining venture, indulge in intricate dishes created by Paresa’s Executive Chef Ryan Arboleda, featuring a six-course set menu prepared in a live cooking environment. Time: 6pm to 10pm. Call 076 302 000.

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Special Friday @ Indian Feast Royal Phuket Marina is pleased to introduce you to our new Special Promotion “Come 4 Pay for 3”. This gives you 25% discount on our buffet and 10% on the listed menu. Every Friday night from 7-10 pm. This authentic home-made Indian buffet will be prepared and served by our very own in-house Indian Chef Padum Kahtri. Only B495++ per person. Reservations are recommended, so please call “Les Anges” on 076 360 803 or call Mr. Murat (Events & Group Manager) on 081 797 3364.

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BBQ Ribs All You Can Eat Only B29 5 per person at Shakers. Rat-U-Thit Road, Patong. For reservations call on 081 891 4381.

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Curry Fridays at Navrang Mahal Start November 2011-January 2012. Every Friday, all-you-can-eat authentic Indian curry buffet, B449 net per person. Draught beer B50. 7pm-11.30pm. Call 076 286 464.

SATURDAY

List your events here for as low as B99 per line, or online at www.thephuketnews.com/events.php

held every Saturday. From 11.30am to 3pm. B1,200 net per person. Two people receive one bottle of house wine between them. For reservations please contact +66(0) 76 344 999 and +66(0) 76 680 666 or e-mail rsvn@b-laytong.com.

BBQ at Expat Hotel

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Time 7.30pm, Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsports bar.com.

Interactive Pub Quiz Night

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20% Off All Pizzas At Shakers. Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Road, Patong. Free pick up Patong and Kalim areas. Reservations call 081 891 4381.

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AA Phuket Meetings @ TGM All meetings are one hour long and held in English at The Green Man Pub, one km from Chalong circle. Contact 081 895 4763.

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Saturday Brunch The B-Lay Tong Saturday brunch will be

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BBQ Ribs All You Can Eat Only B295 per person at Shakers. Rat-UThit Road, Patong. Reservations call on 081 891 4381.

THURSDAY

On the big screen. F1, MotoGP, Tennis, Golf, AFL, NRL. Irish Times Irish Pub, Jungceylon, Patong.

SUNDAY Sunday Roast Pork or Beef Dinner Every Sunday 2pm onwards Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong B290 per person. Stilton with port or wine every Sunday 2pm onwards B290. Please see www. expathotel.com.

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Best Sunday Carvery in Phuket Roast beef, BBQ ham, chicken, pork and Yorkshire pudding. All you can eat B399. Irish Times, Jungceylon, Patong.

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Half-Chicken Spit Roast Only B225 per person at Shakers. Rat-UThit Road, Patong. Reservations please call 081 891 4381.

MONDAY Roaring Bhoys Live Music every Monday night. The largest selection of draught beer in Phuket. Irish Times, Jungceylon, Patong.

................................................................................ Only B325 per person at Shakers. Rat-UThit Road, Patong. Reservations 081 891 4381.

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Starts from 8pm every Wednesday night. The largest selection of draught beer in Phuket. Irish Times, Jungceylon, Patong.

All Major Sports Live

Recipe by Ryan is an innovative culinary dining venture. Indulge in intricate dishes created by Paresa’s Executive Chef Ryan Arboleda, featuring a six-course set menu prepared in a live cooking environment. Time: 6pm to 10pm. Call 076 302 000, email: dining@paresaresorts.com.

Only B225 per person at Shakers. Rat-UThit Road, Patong. Reservations call 081 891 4381.

Quiz Night @ Peppers

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BBQ Buffet All You Can Eat

Half-Chicken Spit Roast

WEDNESDAY

Quiz Night every Wednesday at Peppers Sports Bar near Laguna. Great food, great music, great beer. Contact 081 728 1010. Facebook Peppers Sports Bar.

Chef’s Table at Paresa

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TUESDAY Pool Competition At 9pm Expat Guesthouse Sports Bar, Patong. See map at www.expatguesthouse. com.

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Laguna Phuket “Flea Market” Laguna Phuket’s Canal Shopping Village is transformed into a traditional Thai flea market each Thursday from 3-8pm, creating a fascinating experience for hotel guests and local residents alike. Visitors can browse more than 50 stalls selling a variety of local arts and crafts, clothes, souvenirs, snacks and refreshments. Vendors are registered under OTOP, the provincial government scheme that encourages local villagers to earn livelihoods through traditional arts and crafts – so visitors can enjoy a traditional Thai experience while providing income to help local communities preserve their skills and livelihoods. The market also features Thai music and entertainment by local children. For more info please call 076 362 300.

BBQ Buffet All You Can Eat Only B325 per person at Shakers. Rat-UThit Rd, Patong. Reservations 081 891 4381.

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AA Phuket Meetings @ TGM All meetings are one hour long and held in English at The Green Man Pub, one km from Chalong circle. Contact 081 895 4763.

DAILY Brew Great Beer

Only B225 per person at Shakers. Rat-UThit Road, Patong. Reservations call 081 891 4381.

AA Phuket Meetings @ TGM

Grizzly’s Sports Bar & Restaurant

All meetings are one hour long and held in English at The Green Man Pub, one km from Chalong circle. Contact 081 895 4763.

Watch all the sport that is on TV this weekend with us. Located between Loch Palm Golf Course and Kathu Waterfall. Call 087 471 8747.

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Royal Phuket Marina is pleased to introduce you to our new Special Promotion “Come 4 Pay for 3”. This gives you 25% discount on our buffet and 10% on the listed menu. Every Friday night from 7-10 pm. This Authentic Home-Made Indian Buffet will be prepared and served by our very own in-house Indian Chef Padum Kahtri. Reservations are recommended, so please call “Les Anges” on 076-360803 or call Mr. Murat (Events & Group Manager on 081 797 3364. Only B495++ per person.

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Phuket’s one and only small batch handcraft beer. Open every day for lunch and dinner 11am until midnight. Live music from 7.30pm onwards. Behind the ship, the port zone at Jungceylon. Call 076 3667 753.

Half-Chicken Spit Roast

Special Indian Feast Promotion @ Les Anges

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The Craíc Live Music every week Roaring Bhoys - Tuesdays & Saturdays Bangkok Travellers - Sundays Draught Guinness at the only Irish Bar in North Phuket Open from 5pm, closed Mondays Laguna Phuket

thephuketnews.com

34 JOBS

THE PHUKET NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS JOBS IN PHUKET

Jindarin Beach Club & Resort B1.5 million for one plot > 37

To advertise here visit: thephuketnews.com/classifieds.php Professional Sales Pe o p l e N e e d e d:

Netzilla is urgently looking for talented individuals to join our team in Phuket! If you think you have what it takes to be a part of a winning team, don't hesitate to let us know! POSITION: PROGRAMMER - Minimum 2 year experience in PHP & MySQL programming - Excellent working knowledge of PHP, MySQL, JavaScript, CSS, AJAX - Knowledge of Object Oriented Programming - Able to work irregular hours - Able to work in a team as well as independently - Able to communicate in English preferred - Knowledge of phone application development is a plus INTERESTED APPLICANTS ARE INVITED TO SEND

THEIR RESUME WITH EXPECTED SALARY TO:

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Kindergar ten Secretary: Must have good En g l i s h a n d c o m p u te r skills. Mon-Fri, 7.30am4.30pm, Chalong. Call 080 624 7060.

Sales Staff Wanted: English speaking female. Thai with previous selling experience with own car, outgoing personality with ability to sell to farangs, flexible hours. Retainer, fuel, phone and commission. Call K.Nam 076 272 702. Island Curtains.

thephuketnews.com

E-mail : hr@netzilla-phuket.com

Office Staff Wanted: Thai or foreigner, Male/ Karon needs staff for masFemale, English speaking staff to work in nice environment with outgoing personality and basic book keeping skills. Please call K.Nam 076 272 702. Island Curtains.

Wanted Thai Captain: Looking for Thai captain for boat in Chalong. English speaking.Salary: B10,000 fixed + B200 every day. N e e d I M M E D I AT E LY. Contact Delphine 087 277 7395.

Massage Shop S t a f f: Re q u i r e experienced staf f for b u s y, f r i e n d l y m a s sage shop, Patong Beach,hairdresser, beauty salon experienced, manicure / pedicure, facial, etc. 10am to 11pm. Day off per week. Contact Khun Porn (Thai) 083 176 6475, Email: tammice@ live.com.au.

Elite Fitness: Personal Trainer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Classes instructor (Aerobics, Body Combat, Body Pump, Yoga Etc.)

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

Female. Contact Tiya 089 600 0041. Email: tiya@ elitegyms.net.

Urgently Seeking Staff Waitress/Food Runner and Cleaner/Housekeeper and Chef/Cook/Cook Helper - Full time/Part-Time Female, age 18 to 35 years old. - Thai nationality only. - Presentable and have excellent communication skills in English (waitress only). - Previous experience and reliable transport is important but not essential. Please apply in person to: Rossovivo â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Pasta Pizza Grill, Fisherman Way Business Garden Centre, 5/38 Viset Road, Rawai. 076 38 4 686, info@rossovivo.asia.

Massage Shop Staff: N ew mas sage shop in

sage, facial treatment and manicure. Salary plus commission. 12 a.m to 12 p.m. 6 days a week. 089 128 4783 Pui (Thai).

Apple Mac Support: Apple Mac technical support needed to help with computer issues in Surin area. Please email admin@ esxoasia.com.

New office opening in Patong. We need the best sales people, positions available now. Only hardworking,energetic, friendly, outgoing, sales focused people with great English need apply. 1.Sales Consultant (Full time only). 2.Promotion Ladies (Parttime or full time). 3.Independent Sales Contractors (Work at your own pace). Great pay is available for the right people starting at 15,000 a month plus huge commissions. Call 080 882 0781 or email info@passivecash solutions.com.

Maid: Live in Thai maid To take care of house in Chalong and give daily massage to Farang. Pay B14,000 per month with mo-

torbike to use. Age 35 to 50 and speak English. Email information about yourself to ltnesneg@aol.com.

JOB WANTED Butler/House Manager: Pr ofe s s i o n a l Head Butler 44 with over 20 years extensive experience with The Royal Household, Buckingham Palace and an internationally renowned Hollywood Producer is now available. Interested parties kindly email enquiries to p.v.b.b@live. com..

Hotel Type Manager / Marketing: Experienced Hotel / Accommodation Manager, with SEO Web design, Real Estate and full marketing / agent skills, searching for work. Contact Mark Hopkins, Phone: 088 824 9547, Email:mr.m.hopkins@ gmail.com.

THE PHUKET NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 35

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

BUY & SELL IN PHUKET BOATS & YACHTS

Digifox Marine: Marine

inboard engines, hydraulic and mechanical equipment service, repairs and spare parts. MAN, Arneson, ZF, Rolls Royce and others. Professional team of engineers, high quality, personal approach guaranteed. Contact 076 336 221, 083 171 4141. Email info@ digifoxmarine.com.

Dinghy Size 2.45 metre:

Inflatable tubes. Rigid hull and cover. Used only in fresh water. B65,000. (new B100,000) 081 728 0140 or email milou2612@ gmail.com.

To advertise here visit: thephuketnews.com/classifieds.php

BUSINESSES FOR SALE

construction and management. Contact 076 381 895.

Kamala Bar for SALE!:

Tile It: Thalang. Wana Park

Very profitable bar on main road. Owner returning to Australia in high season. Has one bedroom with ensuite, three FS TVs, pool table, stock, furniture. etc. Price negotiable. Call Chompoo on 084 844 3504.

on Srisoonthorn Rd. Phuket’s quality tile boutique. Tiles for interior, exterior, residential, commercial. Contact 076 620 168 or 081 424 2828. Email info@tile-asia.com.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

office with an alarm system and CCTV cameras. Call 085 798 9469 or email contact@ alarms-phuket-services.com.

Green House: Construc-

Investors or Partners tion, renovation, electric, metal Wanted: 5 Rai hillside land, work, wood work, shop fitting. Maikhao Beach. Perfect for Resort, 15-20 villas. First villa under construction. www. phuketapartments.de, Contact Julius 087 267 1192.

BUSINESS SERVICES

Please contact 085 654 2244.

CARS FOR RENT Car for Rent: Car in good condition, short and longterm rental with first class insurance and delivery service. 086 690 6007, email: k.niwatt@hotmail. com. A1 Car Rentals: Fully-

insured. Starts at B12,000 to B18,000 per month. Please call 089 831 4703. Email for more info: a1carrent@gmail.com.

Private Luxury Yacht Charters: Luxury day

and overnight yacht charters with crew and chef on board. Rates from B49,000 per day. Contact 089 971 0278, Visit our website at www.yacht-char ter-thai land.com.

for Phuket Province 2011. Ages 3 months to 4 years. Open 7 days a week and from 6.30 am to 7pm. Rock Garden Village. Call 076 528 862, mobile 082 539 8252, email: kiddieshomenursery@gmail. com.

CLUBS

Alarms & CCTV SerB u s i n e s s f o r S a l e: vices: Protect your home or Phuket slingshot, Thailand’s only, and bumper cars. Call 082 419 0742.

Kiddies Home Nursery: Award for top Nursery

CARS FOR SALE

Funstart: Family sports and leisure club. Swimming/ golf/playcentre/gaming arcade. Call 076 203 185, 087 882 5544. See funstart phuket.com.

SK A L I nt e r na t i onal Phuket: Skål is a professional organisation of leaders from all branches of the travel and tourism industry. www. skalphuket.org.

DIVING

All 4 Diving: 5/4 Sawatdirak Road, Patong Beach. Contact 076 344 611.

Singapore Club Phuket: Calling all Singaporeans in Phuket to join “Singapore Club Phuket”. Contact Robin on 081 803 7189, 076 303 500.

COMPUTERS English Computer man:

Sales (new and used), service and repairs, WLAN a speciality. Free telephone advice. Call 0846 257 744 or email computermanphuket@gmail.com.

day-trips, live-aboards and diver education. Contact 076 284 026. Phuket’s only dive club.

Under Water Video Package For Sale:

Sony CX150 HD Vid.Camera with Equinox HD6 housing. B35,000 or best offer Call 084 630 2165.

Phuket Scuba Club: PADI 5 Star Centre. Half-day,

EDUCATION Dos & Don’ts of Thai Culture: Learn Thai and Thai

culture that is necessary for enjoying life in Thailand. Group classes three days per week, learning about the real dos and don’ts of Thailand. The Genius Language School, call 089 203 9270 (Aooddy).

Nissan NV Manual 2000 Carry Boy: New

Phuket Consult Services: Insurance, personal

tyres, full service Tax and full insurance June 2012. Excellent condition. Silver B150,000. Call 089 908 4421.

assistance, legal assistance, police and emergency assistance, property management sales and rentals, company registration, visa and work permit and accounting. Call 081 691 9679.

Pegasus 8.2M - Late 2006: SUZUKI 140 HP -

4 strokd - 300 hours. Fully equipped. Location: Boat Lagoon. Price: B700,000. Contact 086 268 7901, martin@pertinax.asia.

Pr o t e c t yo u r h o m e w i t h C C T V: C C T V &

Alarm service. Protect your home with high-quality CCTV camera,and GSM alarm. Free survey and quote. Please call 086 105 8144 or click www. huketechnology.com.

Toursys: Tour operator software. Presented by Blue D Zine Co., Ltd. See bluedzine. com.

Farang Food Paradise: 35ft Bay Liner Motor Yacht: Year 2009, twin

260HP Mercruisers, Aircon. Navigation, TV/DVD/ surround, fridge/freezer, coffee machine, vacuum, flush, full bimini enclosure, many other options. Immaculate condition, a steal at B3.99m. eddyelan@ yahoo.com, call 089 971 0278.

Your specialist of imported food and drinks in Phuket. Visit our shop at the Billion Plaza, opposite Tesco Lotus. Contact 076 612 733, 076 248 900. www.phuketfood.com.

Indo Construction: 40 years experience of more than 20 years at your service in Thailand. Main contractor: study project, architecture design and

Jeep CJ7 2.0 L Automatic 1989: Stain-

less, disc-brake, powersteering. B450,000. C a l l 0 8 6 2 6 8 8 7 0 1.

CHILDCARE Buds Nursery: Phuket Oldest Bi-lingual international child care facility. High quality, time proven schedule and curriculum. Now in brand new purpose build school. Experienced native English teachers to teach ages 1 1/2-8. Mon-Fri 8am.5pm. Bus service available from Patong, Karon, Kata, Phuket, Rawai and Chalong. Website: www.buds-phuket. com.

ABC International Nursery: Education for children 18 months to six years old with experienced native English teachers following the UK EYFS curriculum. Contact 089 971 1813.

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THE PHUKET NEWS

BUY & SELL/HOMES IN PHUKET EDUCATION Learn Thai at Home: Female Thai teacher with 8-9 years experience gives Thai and English lessons for company/hotel staff and Thai cooking at your home. Full course with conversation practise and home study material. Both at beginner and more advanced levels. Call 081 797 1497 or Email teacher joy_phuket@hotmail.com.

Guitar Lesson By Pro Player: Guitar/bass lessons beginner to advanced. Personal one-on-one or by DVD. Diploma of Teaching (Aust) degree. Call 089 777 3063.

International Kindegarten: International Kindergar-

your creative flare with Food Services Cooking School. Italian, Western and Thai cuisine. Try our famous pizza school. Call 082 816 0126, email: info@foodservicesth.com.

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS FOR SALE 51 Inch Plasma TV: Sam-

Dynamic Tyre Balancing: Dynamically balance

DH Yoga Studio Bangtao: Next to Tesco Lotus Cherngtalay. Daily 8.30 am and 19.00 pm. Class - B200, 1 month - B3,000, 3 months B7,000. phuketdh@gmail.com.

Mali Massage :Mali Massage,100 9-10 Soi Post Office Patong Beach Phuket Kathu 8 315 0. The most beautiful, serene and tranquil facilities in Patong Beach. This is an all inclusive original Thai massage shop. Original Thai massage, Deep Thai, Swedish, foot massage and many more. Facial, aroma therapy full service manicure, pedicure including acrylics. Hair-braiding, waxing. Fish spa too. w w w.malimas sage.c om. Open Daily 10 am - midnight. Call 081 087 2460.

PET ADOPTION Why buy a pet?: Soi Dog

English-Thai Law Office: Visa, work permit, com-

Foundation have over 300 beautiful dogs and puppies available for adoption. Fully-vaccinated and sterilised. Contact 087 050 8688, email: john@soidog.org.

pany formation, property transfer etc. Please telephone for advice. Contact 084 063 9223.

PET HOSPITAL

Luxury Pool Villa: Has everything, low rates. Day/ week/month. Three bedroom. Near Laguna. 089 594 4067.

Chaofah Pet Hospital: Yamaha Serow for Sale: 220cc, year 1996.

Havana Cigar Shop: American Health Clinic:

Sale B45,000. Please contact Khun Nicolas (farang) 083 176 4265. Khun Ball 081 084 9532 (Thai).

Opposite HomePro Village Chalong. Contact 081 956 2024. Email: vinoltds@hotmail. com.

Chiropractic spinal adjustment with an experienced chiropractor can take away the pain almost as quickly as it began. Call 076 612 707.

Techworx: Custom design

WRITE YOUR CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENT

& installation. Professional service and support. Premium service: home cinema, home automation, marine AV and IT, lighting control and multiroom audio-video. Call 084 443 9863.

8/28–29 Moo 9, Chaofah East Road. Contact 076 283 365.

POOL TABLES Phuket Pool Tables: www.phuketpooltables.com. Your number one billiard and snooker supplier in Phuket. Sales, rent and profit-sharing. All accessories and services. Call 081 823 4627.

PROPERTY CONCIERGE

Heading ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ......

Live Music By Colin Hill: Popular expat pro musi-

...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ......

cian (guitar/vocals) with work permit. Can perform solo, duo or band. www.play-guitar.net, 089 777 3063.

Body ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... B99 ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... B198 ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... B297 ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... B396 ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... B495 ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... B594 ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... B693

Atmanjai: World’s best natural health programmes to improve health, reduce stress, weight loss, detox, rejuvenation, vitality and overcome disease. See more info at www. atmanjai.com.

Phuket Visa: Offers con-

...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... B891 ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... B990

Box B200

Colour Background B200

Colour Headline B200

Colour Picture B395

Deadline: Monday 12pm (noon) for that Friday’s issue

Hand this in at agent shops, our office or fax: 076 612 553

PROPERTY FOR RENT

Kata Hot Yoga: The most

with swimming pool, security 24/7. 46sq metre, furnished. Daily/monthly. 089 728 4005 or email: thamad17@yahoo.com.

Bon Café Phuket: A producer of premium coffee blends and powdered mixes

located in Baan Suan Loch Palm Estate, 10 minutes to golf courses, International schools and Central, 15 mins to Patong. B65,000 per month. Includes common area pool and gardening service, 6 months minimum. Available from 22 April 2012. +61 41 268 3850 or email jenjira555@yahoo. com.au.

have buyers for foreign freehold, sea view properties and land. Call 080 143 2929 or visit realestate.phuket. net.

Apartment for Rent in Patong: New condo

popular Yoga for men and women in Phuket. Four classes every day. Kata yoga, it works! www.katahotyoga.com, Contact 076 605 950.

Four Beds/Four Baths Villa for Rent: Securely

Selling or Renting Your Property?: We

sulting and services on company registration, work permit, visa, accounting, auditor, legal advice. Contact 081 892 9960.

...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... B792

thephuketnews.com

652 1951 or email phuket.pn@ gmail.com.

MOTORBIKE SERVICES

PERSONAL SERVICES

Native German Teacher:

Cooking School: Fire up

green book and insurance. B57,000. Call 080 700 5560.

Health Food : Online

MOTORBIKES FOR SALE

as well as selling, maintaining, servicing and repairing all major brands. 076 355 600-1.

Honda Phantom 200cc 2007: Good condition with

your motorcycle tyres for a smoother ride with DYNA BEADS! Available at West Coast Service Center Phuket. Your big bike specialist on the bypass road. Contact 085 785 4440.

ten. Native English teachers, UK and Singapore curriculum, small class sizes. The best choice. Call 082 323 1188.

Native German TEFL teacher is teaching German and English to single students at home or small groups in Chalong. (German/English) 080 778 1220, (Thai) 081 810 9115.

To advertise here visit: thephuketnews.com/classifieds.php

sung PS51D450, 2 weeks old, can see working. Free delivery in Patong. Beautiful picture. Price B20,000 ono.Call 0824231247, graeme_lowe@ hotmail.com.

health food in Thailand. Good karma, all natural healthy, natural and organic products. Contact 082 276 1675. www. goodkarmathailand.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

Chalong Land: Land in Chalong. 15 rai of gently sloping land, with full chanote, near Chalong temple. Sea views from top of land. Good road access and electricity. Perfect for development. Only B5 million per rai. Contact Peter on 089

Rawai Beach Front House: Rawai beach front house for sale/long term rent. Three beds, three baths with three air-con. Cable TV, ADSL on area 1600 sq metre. Call 089 649 9939.

Beach Frontage: One bedroom self-contained holiday villa Rawai. Rental Day/Week Call 081 677 1641.

THE PHUKET NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 37

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

HOMES IN PHUKET

To advertise here visit: thephuketnews.com/classifieds.php

Rent Kata One-Three Bed Apartments: Superb

rent and lease in luxury building with pool. Per day, week, month, year and 30 years. Contact Scott Bolls, email: sbolls@hotmail.com, call +66 81 828 0972.

apartments and pool penthouses 115-375 sq metre, less than five minutes walk to two beaches (Kata and Kata Noi) Call 081 078 1246.

Top Rawai Beach Condo For Sale: Serenity

PROPERTY FOR RENT CONT.

Resort & Residences. Two bed / two bath, 134 sq metre. Only B11.9 million. See www. stefan.asia for details.

Apar tment for Rent in Rawai: Business nine

apartments, fully-furnished with swimming pool & office. Contract 081 893 2165.

Baht. +66 (0) 88 381 0012, email: office@palm-beachentertainment.com.

Land for Sale: 11 rai,

one kilometre from Naiyang beach. B6.5 millions per rai. Please call : Siriporn +66 (0) 896 499 939.

PROPERTY FOR SALE Nice Three Bed House for Sale: Three-bedroom

Kata House For Sale:

5 minutes to beach, large modern house, three floors, furnished, three beds, two full bath, air-con, western kitchen, spacious living room, garage with laundry/overhead storage, large covered patios, security doors/windows, garden, company name available. B5.5 million. Call 081 131 5751, email: seadog5000@

Jindarin Beach Club & Resort: B1.5 million

24 Rai Flat Land Cheap:

24 rai flat land close to Phuket zoo. Owner direct B3.8 million per rai, chanot title. Call 085 789 1773.

for one plot, B3.2 million for cottage + plot. Call 080 467 7770 (Thai), 083 520 0020 (English). www.jindarin.com, Email: eam1008@ me.com.

house in Moobaan Tarn Thong Villa opposite Moobaan Chao fa California. B3.1 million. Contact Lee on 081 803 7189.

rooms, internet cafe and apartment. B1.3 million. Call for details on 0857946530.

Land for sale in Rawai:

off main road in great location. Full Chanote title. Call 089 651 3479.

One rai with Chanote contact direct to owner 089 472 9870 d_chaibut@yahoo.com.

Kata Beach Centre Phuket: Apar tments for

Modern Pool Villa: Stunning three-bedroom pool villa, five minutes from Laguna 600 sq metre plot in peaceful location. Finished to a very high specification “MUST SEE” Selling price B12.9 million. Please contact 084 994 9303 or email phuketpoolvilla.info@ gmail.com.

THE SUNRISE OCEAN VILLAS

Patong Guesthouse: 8

yahoo.com.

Nice One Rai Chalong NOW Reduced to 6.5m ono: In Chalong 200 metre

Very easy access from road. B5 million per rai. Contact 081 895 4318. Email: wapeebow@gmail.com.

Luxur y Villa, Phuket Loch Palm for Sale: Plot:

650 m², own water, solar, living area 280 m², furnished, carport, 80 m² pool, four bedrooms, four bathrooms, 5 flat tv, ADSL, Cable TV. 19.5 million Thai

House Wi t h Pool Rawai/Nai Harn: Plot

of approx 825 sq metre with enclosed space of approx 220 sq metre. Three bedrooms and three bathrooms with open plan western kitchen. Fully air-con, WiFi and cable TV. Solar hot water. Large approx 70 sq metre free-form pool in large established tropical garden. Sala and covered two-car parking with electric gate. Well-established quiet neighborhood. Chanote title. For sale by owner at B10.7 million. Call 087 267 1282 or email david_rosa mond@yahoo.com for details and photos.

Kata Phuket Luxur y Studio/Apartment: 60

sq metre. Lease hold 30+60 year option. Free furnishing and transfer. B3.0 million. Contact Scott Bolls, email: sbolls@ hotmail.com, call +66 81 828 0972.

Sea View Villa: Luxury seaview Patong-Karon villa, four bedrooms, private pool. Sell for B22 million, and also available rental daily and monthy basis. Please check more info at www.awphuket.com.

Seaview Land AoMakha m for Sale: 3 3 rai

land upon hill with seaview.

Perfect Land for Villa: Approx three rai, with chanote title, 2 km south of Thai Muang town centre. Just 24 km north of Sarasin Bridge. Good road access and electricity. Very quiet, green area. Urgent sale for just B5 million total, nonnegotiable. Contact Peter on 089 652 1951 or email phuket. pn@gmail.com.

New Apartment for Sale Patong: Condo: swimming

pool, security 24/7. Furnished, 46sqm, freehold: B2.9 million. 089 728 4005, thamad17@ yahoo.com.

After a great success of the first phase, the Sunrise Ocean Villas is now starting to build the 8 other villas of "Phase2". The price of 17.9 million baht makes the project one of the most compettitive on the island for being only 60m from the beach. Each villa has an living area of over 300 sqm, has 3 spacious bedrooms, all sea views, 5 bathrooms, a 10x4m infinity pool, maid's quarter and a covered 2 car-parking. The houses are specially designed to guarantee a complete privacy, with an open panoramic view of the sea.

Come visit the villas and you will be wonderfully surprised by the quality of the project as well as the quality of life you can find here.

SEAVIEW LAND FOR SALE: Near Chalong pier, 150 metres from the sea. Three rai and one ngan plot. Chanote title. Price: B20 million per rai. No agent. Call 087 278 7206

For appointment or more details, contact the project director Khun Monta at 081 343 0777 (Thai, English & German) Email: thesunrise villas@yahoo.com.

www.thesunrisevillas.com

Land for Sale: Land Mission Hills half rai plot, quiet select location, chanote, water, electric price B1.6m. Six rai hilltop, sea/mountain views, chanote, water, electric, office B4.2m per rai. 087 978 5804.

Urgent Three Bed House for Sale: Phuket

grand ville pasak soi 8, two storey house, three bed, three bath, three aircon, cable, internet and fully-furnished. Call 081 894 2505.

Thai Style House for Sale: Teak wood floors,

stairs, walls, 2 bedroom. Land 330 sq metre, peaceful location, five minutes to Patong, Chanote title. B5.0 million. 086 268 8701, email: f430spiderf1@hotmail.com.

thephuketnews.com

38 CLASSIFIEDS

THE PHUKET NEWS

TRADES IN PHUKET

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

To advertise here visit: thephuketnews.com/classifieds.php

HOME IMPROVEMENT

REMOVALS

HOME IMPROVEMENT

STORAGE Reserve Your Storage Space

Call 076 29 29 09

or visit mystorageasia.com

 Sizes to Suit all Budgets  Personal & Business Storage  Motorcycle Storage  Left Luggage Service  We Sell Boxes  Storage Insurance Inclusive Wana Park, Srisoonthron Road, Thalang, Phuket 83110 Tel 076 620168 info@tile-asia.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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thephuketnews.com

THE PHUKET NEWS

ISLAND SPORT 39

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

New ACG hits it for six CRICKET

Despite having already seen its fair share of on-field action in the ongoing Island Furniture League, the Alan Cooke Ground (ACG) celebrated its official opening last weekend. The marquee event was on Sunday when a CAT (Cricket Association of Thailand) representative side took on an ACC (Asian Cricket Council) team, which included a former international Test captain, in a 40 over match. CAT XI won the toss and decided to field, an unexpected decision given the searing midday heat. And it looked as though the move may have been the wrong one as the ACC openers went about establishing a solid opening partnership, moving to 31 off six overs until paceman Kitanu struck, cleaning up the stumps of Val Guiraud (6). But when Martin Foster fell just two overs later, ACC were left in a potentially precarious position at 2-36. Bill Stahmer was then joined at the crease by former Bangladesh Test captain Aminul Islam, who combined for a solid partnership of 68 runs to

Martin Foster drives during Sunday’s match between the Cricket Association of Thailand and Asian Cricket Council. steady the ACC innings. The two looked determined, with Stahmer even pulling off an athletic dive straight through the stumps to avoid a runout. After Stahmer was trapped lbw for 18, his son Matt walked out to the middle, blasting 41 off 52 balls to help lift the ailing run rate. CAT could have lessened the damage, but dropped him

on 16 and again on 21. Islam retired not out on 52 from his 68 balls, which included some sensational cover drives to the boundary. With the score on 135, the ACC tail were able to push the score along to a respectable total of 196, aided by the 42 extras gifted to them by the CAT bowlers.

Pick of the bowlers was G Pearawat with 3-50 off his eight overs. After the innings change, CAT went about their business well, with the openers reaching 27 from eight overs before losing Saurab for 15 off the bowling of Culpan. ACC rallied and continued to stick to their line and

A picture of perfection as Portrait FC win again FUTSAL

Thanyapura Sports and Leisure Centre (TSLC) hosted the second round of the Adult Futsal League season last Thursday (January 26), sponsored by Thanachart Bank. First up on the Premier Division pitch saw Jitjongrut open their season campaign against Portrait FC. Portrait took a command lead into the break, going up 5-1 at the break thanks to some fast flowing, attacking football. Jitjongrut came back strong to outscore Portrait in the second half, but couldn’t get close enough as portrait ran out 6-3 winners. Up next saw Honda and Thanachart Bank play a tightly contested match. Honda started well, going up 2-0 at the half but couldn’t continue their goalscoring form and conceded three second half goals without reply. Final score: Thanachart Bank 3, Honda 2. On the First Division pitch,

SGS got their season off to a tough start, going down 2-0 to an undefeated Ultraman. With both goals coming late in the first half, SGS pressed to get back into the game, but came up against well organised Ultraman defence. In the other First Division

match, the Island boys were matched up with TSLC. TSLC got off to a flying start, scoring in the second minute from a deflected shot, but Island regrouped and played some good football though were unable to get the ball in the net. TSLC then capitalised on

length, putting CAT on the ropes at 6-96. But some brilliant batting from number four batsman T Wanchana (65 not out) saw CAT get home by three wickets with just three balls to spare. Sat u rd ay also saw a match between two local sides – PCG A and PCG B – in an exhibition T20 game.

PCG B won the toss and elected to bat, surviving their overs to finish with a respectable 6-135. Seemant Raju top scored with 23 off 28 deliveries before he was caught off the bowling of Ryan Dunn. Contributions were also made by Dean Noble (16), Ian Lenton (14) and Anil Rawat (14 not out). They were also aided by some loose bowling from PCG A, who let through 36 extras. Pick of the bowlers was Sameer Khan who picked up 2-19 off his four overs. PCG A started off their chase in the worst possible way, losing two wickets of the first two balls of their innings. It was then up to Ryan Dunn, who has been the standout player in the current Island Furniture League season, to steady the innings. He and Sameer Khan combined to put on an impressive 85 run partnership to send PCG A over the line with 2.3 overs to spare. Pick of the PCG B bowlers was K Jhagta with 2-19 off four. The ACG will return to hosting Island Furniture League matches this weekend when Liquid Lounge Lizards take on young guns the Phuket Leopards.

Mini-marathon is announced The Sixth Vichit MiniMarathon will be held on February 5, to promote exercise and tourism. Organised by Vichit Municipality, the competition consists of a 4.5km Fun Run and 10.5km Mini-Marathon. Entry is free for those below 15 years-old, and B100 for those above (who receive a free T-shirt). The route for Fun Run starts in front of the Vichit Municipality office on Chaofa East Rd, then heads along Phattana Tongtin Rd to Sakdidech Rd, before

returning to the start point. Meanwhile, the MiniMarathon also goes along Phattana Tongtin Rd to Sakdidech Rd, then onto Chaofa West Rd before heading back to the start point via Kwang Rd and Chaofa East Rd. The top five finishers in both races receive a medal, while the winner will be given a trophy. Application forms can be filled out in advance at the Division Of Education, Vichit Municipality. Call 076 625100 ext 170.

–Photo by TSLC some lapse defending and scored twice in the final two minutes of the first half. When they scored again from their first attack of the second half, the game was then over as a contest and TSLC went on to secure a massive 6-0 win.

29/2/2012

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40 ISLAND SPORT

THE PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

FC Phuket interim president Naruebet ‘Ko Lek’ Aryupong answers questions during Monday’s press conference.

idea and raised their hands when Mr Tawan asked if that would be how the team should proceed. They agreed that since January 31 was the deadline for Division 1 teams to confirm their sides with the Thai Premier League, Ko Lek should carry on. A more in-depth discussion on fundraising and the future management of the club was due to be held yesterday (February 2) at Surakul Stadium. Fans were invited to take part in the meeting. Ko Lek later said he’s ready to step down if any interested parties with sufficient funds and a solid background are ready to take the job from him. He explained that there will be no shares transfer on the ruling company FC Phuket 1688 Co Ltd. The shares in the company will remain under his and two other shareholders’ name. But the new management team will receive a formal letter from his company that grants them permission to manage FC Phuket. “I have struggled to run the team for the past three years since we first played Division 2 Southern. I hope the new management team will have more resources and don’t have to experience the same issues I have,” Ko Lek said. “But should that happen, me being one of shareholders of the ruling company, the new management could still return the team rights to me so I can find a way to proceed with the team. This is for the team’s own good.” –Kazira Hans

PEOPLE POWER The plan that could help save FC Phuket FOOTBALL FC Phuket could belong to the fans – literally – under a radical fundraising scheme proposed on Monday. Speaking at a meeting to discuss the club’s future, FC Phuket interim president Naruebet ‘Ko Lek’ Aryupong urged the public to help save the football club. Though the FC Phuket interim management team offered to let other interested parties take over management, little headway seemed to have been made into who that new management could be. A group from Thao Thepkrasattri-Thao Srisoonthorn FC, led by Prasit Jantawong, proposed that they run the team with the support of another three football clubs; Nakorn Pathom FC, Osotspa FC and Chonburi group. But questions were raised whether that proposition would even be possible. When asked, Mr Prasit

could not present any documents that could back his claims about an alliance with

the other three clubs. Mr Prasit was temporary dismissed from the meeting

to allow the second interested group to present the proposition. Mathee Kongdang, an FC Phuket fan, proposed that FC Phuket should allow the fans to be a part of the club by selling small shares to raise money. Several other Thai clubs, including Hat Yai FC and Chiang Mai FC have adopted similar approaches. He also said that he had some interested sponsors that could pitch in around B10 million. He explained that the fundraising would occur in the form of share sales. Each share could have a value of B1,000, with a total of 5,000 shares being issued. If fans jumped on the bandwagon, this could raise B5 million, enough to keep the team afloat for a while, at least until some major spon-

sors came on board. He also proposed that in the meantime, while there was no new sponsorship opportunity or management, Ko Lek and his management team should continue in their current roles. Though some questioned whether the club would have enough time to execute the plan, the idea was supported by fans present at the meeting. Tawan Sukyiran, a public prosecutor in the Phuket Juvenile Court and former FC Phuket team manager, explained that this would be the most practical idea since Ko Lek knows the job well and can still use his connections to get things done, while others still involved with the club can assist with the fundraising. The talks were brief as fans seemed to agree to that

SUPER BOWL XLVI LIVE! Monday Feb. 6 @ 6.30 AM

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

IN BRIEF

Marco Simoncelli in fourth place on the Sepang circuit last year, just moments before his death. –Photo by Glenn Johns

SEPANG CIRCUIT IS A ‘SAFE TRACK’

MotoGP’s commercial backer Dorna Sports defended the safety of Malaysia’s Sepang circuit as top riders began testing their new 1000cc bikes on Tuesday at the track. The tragic death in October of Honda rider Marco Simoncelli at the Malaysian MotoGP shocked the sport and highlighted concerns over Sepang, which is notoriously tricky due to heat, humidity and frequent rain. But Dorna Managing Director Javier Alonso said Si-

MOTO GP

moncelli’s death in a horrific collision was purely an accident that should not be blamed on the circuit, which was dry at the time of the crash. “ I n t e r m s of s a fet y, Sepang is a very safe track. Unfortunately we had a fatal accident last year. We are really, really sad about this.” But he added: “Safety-wise, Sepang is one of the safest tracks we have in the championship.” Ma d r id-based Dor na

holds the commercial rights to MotoGP. The three days of preseason testing offered a first glimpse of the new 1000cc MotoGP bikes adopted this year in place of the earlier 800cc engines. Top riders included Spain’s Jorge Lorenzo on a Yamaha and multiple world champ Valentino Rossi – who suffered through a poor 2011 season – riding his Ducati. However, defending champion Casey Stoner of Australia

sat out Tuesday testing, citing a pulled back muscle. Test runs were delayed in the morning after rain left the track damp. Lorenzo, who missed the final three races of the 2011 season due to injury, set the fastest pace early on. Testing continues until Thursday and will be followed by a second three-day test session beginning February 28. The MotoGP 2012 season officially starts on April 8 in Qatar. –AFP

Warne in a spin over cyclist dispute

Crespo tops Indian football auction

Shane Warne is facing legal action after a cyclist involved in a road rage incident with the Australian cricket great said he plans to sue for damages to his bike. Web designer Mathew Hol l i n g s wo r t h , 2 8 , i s launching a civil claim in the Melbourne Magistrates Cou r t seek ing A$1,575 (B45,000) for repairs to his hi-tech bicycle plus damages, interest and costs, the Herald Sun reported. Hollingsworth alleges Warne drove his sports car into him after a robust exchange of words in peakhour traffic in Melbourne on January 17.

Hernán Crespo became the hottest property of the Indian football league starting next month when the Argentinian fetched $840,000 (B27 million) in an auction of players and coaches on Monday. Crespo was snapped up by the Barasat franchise of Premier League Soccer (PLS), which is modelled on cricket’s highly successful Indian Premier League Twenty20 tournament and scheduled to be held from 25 February to 8 April in the eastern Indian state of West Bengal. It a l y’s 2 0 0 6 Wo r ld Cup-winning captain Fabio Cannavaro went to Siliguri for B26 million, while Robert Pires of France (£B25 million), the Nigerian Jay-Jay Okocha (B17 million) and former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler (B16 million) went to Howrah, Durgapur and Kolkata respectively. Five franchises (there were originally six, but there were no bidders for the Haldia team) collectively spent nearly B220 million, each buying an “icon” player, two overseas footballers and a coach.

Raikkonen back on track Finland’s 2007 Formula One world champion Kimi Raikkonen made his return to the track after two years away on Monday in a testing session at the Ricardo Tormo track outside Valencia, his new team Lotus-Renault said. Raikkonen won his 2007 crown with Ferrari before switching to the World Rally Championship in 2009 before a spell in Nascar racing.

Imran blames T20 for India’s 8 Test defeats CRICKET

Pakistan cricket legend Imran Khan has blamed the lucrative Twenty20 Indian Premier League for India’s recent dismal Test showing, saying the focus should be on the game’s longer format. India were humiliated 4-0 in the recent series away to Michael Clarke’s Australians to record eight successive overseas Test defeats following a similar hammering in England last year. “I can only use one word to describe India’s form... consistent. To lose eight Test matches in a row overseas is an achievement,” Imran, the former Pakistan captain, said in the first annual Tiger Pataudi Memorial Lecture in Kolkata on Monday night. “It’s a wake-up call for Indian cricket. A team that won the World Cup and was number one in Tests a few months back is in the doldrums. “If you want to be the leaders you can’t keep losing. If you pay so much emphasis on Twenty20 cricket, you’ve got to pay hugely.”

Imran Khan. The annual IPL tournament revolutionised cricket when it burst on to the scene in 2008 with a high-octane blend of international star players, short matches and Bollywood glamour. Imran, who led Pakistan to their only World Cup triumph in 1992, said Test cricket should always be the top priority, as it is the greatest examination of players’ temperament and technique. “India has to decide soon whether it prefers glamour, Bollywood and money to Test cricket,” he said. “In my 20 years of cricket, I never made so much money as a mediocre player in T20 does today. “The connoisseurs will rate

a player by his Test record and not what he’s done in T20s. Test cricket is the ultimate test of a player and that’s the reason Test records carry value. “Talent can excel in onedayers, but in Test cricket, your temperament and technique is tested besides the talent.” Imran also said India needed to overhaul their domestic cricket to make it more competitive. “In India and Pakistan, there’s a huge jump from firstclass cricket to international cricket,” he said. Imran – now an increasingly influential politician in Pakistan – also paid glowing tribute to former India captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, who died in September of a lung infection aged 70. Nicknamed “The Tiger” for his brilliant fielding, Pataudi quit Tests in 1975 with 2,793 runs in 46 matches and six centuries despite losing the sight in his right eye in a car accident in England. “If Tiger hadn’t lost an eye, he would have broken all records,” said Imran. “His quality of strokes was amazing. Mere mortals couldn’t play them.”

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42 INTERNATIONAL SPORT

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

THE PHUKET NEWS

THIS YEAR’S GRAND PRIZE IS SPONSORED BY:

THE PHUKET NEWS TIPPING COMPETITION: 22

MAN CITY LOSE TO EVERTON FOOTBALL

Despite only half of the Premier League round fixtures being completed at press time on Wednesday, the results had already helped reshape the rest of the season. Manchester United drew level with Manchester City at the top of the table on Tuesday after Old Trafford old boy Darron Gibson scored the winner for Everton in a 1-0 victory over the Premier League leaders. Gibson, who was often pilloried by sections of United’s support before he joined Everton in mid-January, did his old club a huge favour after driving in his first goal for the Toffees on 60 minutes to sink City at Goodison Park. City’s third defeat of the season saw United join them on 54 points after they registered a clinical 2-0 win over Stoke at Old Trafford, with both goals coming from penalties. United took the lead after 38 minutes when Jermaine Pennant was judged to have tripped United’s South Korean international midfielder Park Ji-Sung in the area.

Everton captain Phil Neville celebrates the 1-0 victory. In the absence of regular penalty taker Wayne Rooney, who has failed on four of his last eight attempts, Hernandez strode up and calmly beat Thomas Sorensen with a shot into the bottom lefthand corner. Seven minutes into the second half, Antonio Valencia surged into the area with Jon Walters tugging at him from behind, a move which referee Mike Jones instantly deemed worthy of a penalty. This time, surprisingly given Hernandez’s earlier success, Berbatov strode up to the mark and scored just as

convincingly as his team mate had, low into the bottom right. In other matches, Andy Carroll boosted Liverpool’s hopes of qualif ying for the Champions League as he scored his fifth goal of the season to help his side to a convincing 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Tuesday. Ten-man Chelsea scrambled an injury-time equaliser to deny Swansea a famous victory as the Londoners battled to a 1-1 draw at Liberty Stadium. It was a dramatic finale for Chelsea, who had earlier seen Ashley Cole sent off after the

England full back collected two yellow times. Third-placed Tottenham maintained the pressure on the Manchester clubs, strolling to a 3-1 victory over Wigan at White Hart Lane. The monthly prize for The Phuket News Tipping Competition is shaping up to be hotly contested, with ‘A1CR’ still in the lead on 62, but another 10 players within 10 points of him. This month’s winner will claim a B3,000 voucher from Australia Bar and Grill in Kata, where you can watch all the international sport on 50” plasma screen TVs or on the big screen. ‘Gafferworld’ is still dominating the overall competition, and is by far the favourite to score the return flight to the UK, courtesy of Albatross Lufthansa City Center, is still up for grabs. The highlights of this weekend’s Premier League round see Manchester United take on a struggling Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, while Liver pool take on Tottenham at Anfield in Monday’s game.

Phone +66 76 270958 abpoffice@yahoo.co.uk www.lcc-albatross.com THIS MONTH'S COMPETITION IS SUPPORTED BY:

ROUND 22 RESULTS: Everton Man Utd Swansea Tottenham Wolves Aston Villa Blackburn Bolton Fulham Sunderland

1-0 2-0 1-1 3-1 0-3 v v v v v

DANE’S TIPS ROUND 23

Man City Stoke Chelsea Wigan Liverpool QPR Newcastle Arsenal West Brom Norwich

TOP 10 PERFORMERS (JAN/FEB): 1. A1CR 2. toptipster 3. UMSTPN 4. Farang2005 5. Eak 6. keefers 7. stegee 8. Jauntingjason 9. fazza 10. Chaochao

62 61 60 58 57 56 55 54 53 52

Norwich v Bolton QPR v Wolves Stoke v Sunderland West Brom v Swansea Wigan v Everton Man City v Fulham Newcastle v Aston Villa Chelsea v Man Utd Liverpool v Tottenham

draw home win away win draw away win home win away win away win draw

TOP 10 (OVERALL): 1. gafferworld 2. apollo131 3. chasman 4. alanphuket 5. MRB 6. dcoutts 7. Farang2005 8. Mal Kenyon 9. scottkip 10. Paul614724

348 319 316 312 311 303 293 291 291 290

FA Cup drama as Kuyt downs Red Devils A last-gasp goal from substitute Dirk Kuyt saw Liverpool snatch a 2-1 victory over Manchester United on Saturday as the Merseysiders booked their place in the last 16 of the FA Cup. Kuyt punished some poor defending from Man U in the 88th minute, lashing a low shot past David de Gea to send Anfield into raptures. United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was adamant his side had not deserved to lose. “I don’t know how we lost it,” Ferguson said. “But I think in the context of an FA Cup game it can happen. One bad breakaway and you can lose a game. Chelsea meanwhile booked their place in the fifth round

FOOTBALL draw after a disputed penalty settled another match which failed to live up to its potentially explosive billing at Loftus Road. Arsenal staged a remarkable recovery from 2-0 down to beat Aston Villa 3-2 and keep their FA Cup hopes alive with a dramatic fourth round win at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. The Gunners, without a major trophy since winning the FA Cup seven years ago, were booed off by their own fans at half-time. But three goals in seven second half minutes courtesy of two Robin van Persie penalties separated by a Theo

Liverpool’s Stewart Downing, left, vies with Manchester United’s Patrice Evra. –Photo AFP Walcott effort, after an Alan Hutton clearance rebounded in off the England international, turned the match on its head. On Saturday, second tier Brighton, finalists in 1983, ousted Premier League highriders Newcastle 1-0 while promotion-chasing League Two side Crawley revived memories of last year’s fairytale FA Cup run by downing Championship outfit Hull, a side 45 places above them. Crawley, a non-league side

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a year ago when they reached the last 16 before losing to Manchester United, pulled off a 1-0 win after Matthew Tubbs scored in the 57th minute. Bolton also beat Swansea 2-1 in an all-Premier League clash, while Stoke downed Derby 2-0. No r w ic h m e a nw h i le snatched a late victory over West Brom at the Hawthorns, Simeon Jackson pouncing in the 85th minute to clinch a 2-1 win.

5TH ROUND DRAW Liverpool v Brighton & Hove Everton v Blackpool or Sheffield Chelsea v Birmingham Crawley Town v Stoke Stevenage v Tottenham Norwich v Leicester S’land or M’brough v Arsenal Millwall or Southampton v Bolton

In Friday’s games, Harry Redknapp took his place on the Tottenham bench as his Premier League side squeezed past Watford 1-0 to

advance to the last 16 of the FA Cup on Friday. Everton also came from behind to defeat Fulham 2-1 in a hardfought battle at Goodison Park. But any hopes of the top clubs facing off in the fifth round of the FA Cup were dashed on Sunday with the release of the draw. Liverpool’s reward for knocking bitter rivals Manchester United out of the FA Cup on Saturday was a home last 16 clash against Championship side Brighton, a team they beat 2-1 earlier this season en route to the League Cup final. Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur travel to Stevenage Borough of third-tier League One. Fourth-division Crawley Town, the lowest ranked club left in the tournament, are at home to Stoke City, last season’s losing finalists, following a 1-0 win away to Championship side Hull City. Chelsea will be at home to Championship side Birmingham City, with Everton facing the winners of the replay between Blackpool and Sheffield which was scheduled for Wednesday (February 1). The fifth-round ties will be played on the weekend of February 18-19.

THE PHUKET NEWS

INTERNATIONAL SPORT 43

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

Premier League Team

Ligue 1 MP W

Chelsea

Liverpool

Arsenal

Newcastle

Stoke City

Man City

Man Utd

Tottenham

Team

MP W

PSG

Montpellier

Lille

Lyon

Marseille

Rennes

Toulouse

Saint-Étienne

Everton

Bordeaux

Norwich

Lorient

Sunderland

Brest

Aston Villa

Evian

Swansea

Nancy

Fulham

Dijon

West Brom

Ajaccio

QPR

Valenciennes

Bolton

Caen

Blackburn

Auxerre

Wolves

Sochaux

Wigan

Nice

MP W

The Championship Team

Serie A

MP W

Juventus

Milan

Udinese

Lazio

Intern’ale

Blackpool

Roma

Reading

Napoli

Mid’brough

Palermo

Burnley

Genoa

Leeds

Fiorentina

26 24

West Ham

Southampton

Cardiff City

Birmingham

Hull City

6 7 8 9

Team

Brighton

Parma

Derby

Chievo

Barnsley

Atalanta

Leicester

Cagliari

Crystal

Catania

Portsmouth

Bologna

Peterborough

Siena

Watford

Lecce

Ipswich

Cesena

Bristol City

Novara

Millwall

Doncaster

Nottm Forest

Coventry

MP W

Bundesliga Team

MP W

Primera Liga D

Team R Madrid

Barcelona

Valencia

Levante

B Munich

Espanyol

Dortmund

A Bilbao

Schalke

A Madrid

Borussia M

Málaga

Bremen

Getafe

B Leverkusen

Osasuna

Hannover

Sevilla 20

Hoffenheim

R Sociedad

Wolfsburg

R Betis

23 22

Stuttgart

R Vallecano

Hamburger

Mallorca

Mainz

Granada

Nuremberg

R Santander

Villarreal

Köln

Hertha

Gijón

R Zaragoza

Kaiser’tern

Augsburg

Freiburg

Champions League Relegation

Champions League qualifiers

Premier League promotion

Europa League

Premier League play-off

Novak Djokovic says his focus is now on the French Open and Olympics after his recent epic Australian Open win.

Djokovic has eyes on the Grand prize Rod Laver was the last man to complete the grand slam back in 1969 and after Novak Djokovic’s astonishing win in the Australian Open final it looks like the Serb could very well be next. Laver was watching at Melbourne Park as Djokovic claimed his fourth grand slam title in 12 months. And if his blistering run of form continues and he wins the French Open in June he will hold all four major titles at once. The true grand slam – winning all four trophies in a single calendar year – will also need him to retain his Wimbledon and US Open titles. M a ny wo u ld b e t o n Djokovic succeeding where bot h R afa el Na d al a nd Roger Federer have failed, after the once delicate world number one survived a record 5hr 53min slugfest with the snarling Spaniard. “You’re in pain, you’re suffering, you know that you’re trying to activate your legs, you’re trying to push yourself another point, just one more point, one more game,” he said afterwards. “You’re going through so much suffering your toes are bleeding. Everything is just outrageous, you know, but you’re still enjoying that pain.” Important victories seem to spur Djokovic to greater heights. After winning the 2010 Davis Cup with Serbia, he compiled a 43-match winning streak which was only halted by Federer after six months in the French Open semi-finals. Last year he collected the Australian Open, Wimbledon and US Open trophies among

TENNIS 10 titles, and went 70-6 despite struggling with injury from September onwards. Now Djokovic is targeting the French Open, the only major to elude him thus far, which would make him a strong bet to complete the elusive grand slam. “I’m prioritising grand slams this year, as every year, and Olympic Games. I think that’s one of my highest goals. “So I want to do well and I want to get to my first final at least in Paris. I have never been in the final there, and I have a feeling that I’m ready this year to achieve that.” Sunday’s final, which stretched into the early hours of Monday, proved Djokovic has the capacity to tough it out, something which had seemed in doubt earlier in his career when he was known for pulling out of big matches. And from regular beatings at the hands of Federer and Nadal, the Serb is now the man handing out the punishment. “I was in that position a couple years ago, you know, losing most of the semi-finals and finals against him (Nadal) and Roger in grand slams so I know how it feels,” he said. “I really thought what I said sincerely on the court, is that unfortunately there had to only be one winner because we both gave it all. We both put 100 per cent of our abilities on the court and played to the last moment. “He definitely deserved to be a winner as well tonight. You know, I would be saying the same thing if I’m sitting here as a loser.” –AFP

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44 INTERNATIONAL SPORT

THE PHUKET NEWS

SPORT

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012

ACG opens

It’s just cricket at the opening of new ground > 39

SPARKY MAKES A DEAL QPR SWOOP ON TRANSFER DAY FOOTBALL

Last-minute transfers were brokered across English football on Tuesday as analysts reported a sharp fall in overall spending as a low key January window drew to a close. Struggling Queens Park Rangers (QPR) provided two of the most eye-catching deals of the day after confirming the signing of French striker Djibril Cisse from Serie A side Lazio, before swooping for Fulham forward Bobby Zamora. Cisse signed a two-and-ahalf year deal with QPR for an undisclosed fee while the club wrapped up what was believed to be a £5 million (B244 million) deal for Zamora shortly before the window closed at 11pm local time. Overall spending by Premier League clubs during the window was estimated at between £50 and £40 million (B2.4 billion to B2 billion), well down on last year’s record spend of £225 million (B11 billion) in January. Alan Switzer, director of the sports business group at accountancy giants Deloitte said the 2012 fall could partially be attributed to the onset of UEFA’s financial fair play regulations, which dictate that clubs wishing to take part in European competitions will only be allowed to spend what they earn. “Financial fair play has definitely had an impact. The 2011/12 season does now count towards the UEFA rules and that will be part of the consideration which clubs will be giving to any transfer,” he said. “The likes of Chelsea and Manchester City have already been on record as saying they will take it into account in terms of their spending on transfers and wages.” In other transfer deals on Tuesday, Everton confirmed the signing of Croatian striker Nikica Jelavic from Scottish giants Rangers, with Toffees striker Louis Saha heading to Tottenham in a surprise move to White Hart Lane. “Striker Louis Saha has left Everton to join Tottenham Hotspur,” said a statement on evertonfc.com.

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Queens Park Rangers’ manager Mark ‘Sparky’ Hughes (centre) speaks with the media. ARSENAL

IN Thierry Henry (New York Red Bulls, loan), Thomas Eisfeld (Borussia Dortmund, undisclosed) OUT Emmanuel Frimpong (Wolves, loan), Vito Mannone (Hull, loan), Sanchez Watt (Crawley, loan), Daniel Boateng (Swindon, loan), Ryo Myaichi (Bolton, loan)

ASTON VILLA

IN Robbie Keane (LA Galaxy, loan), Enda Stevens (Shamrock Rovers, £250,000) OUT Nathan Delfouneso (Leicester, loan), Fabian Delph (Leeds, loan), Shane Lowry (Millwall, undisclosed)

BLACKBURN

IN Anthony Modeste (Bordeaux, loan), Marcus Olsson (Halmstads, free), Bradley Orr (QPR, undisclosed) OUT Jason Roberts (Reading, free), Keith Andrews (West Brom, free), Ryan Nelsen (Tottenham, free)

BOLTON

IN Tim Ream (New York Red Bulls, £2m), Ryo Myaichi (Arsenal, loan), Marvin Sordell (Watford, £3m) OUT Gary Cahill (Chelsea, £7m)

Patrick Bamford (Nottingham Forest, undisclosed) OUT Alex (Paris St Germain, £4m), Josh McEachran (Swansea, loan), Gael Kakuta (Dijon, loan) Nicolas Anelka (Shanghai Shenhua, free), Patrick van Aanholt (Vitesse, loan), Philipp Prosenik (AC Milan, undisclosed), Milan Lalkovic (ADO Den Haag, loan)

Chris Chantler (Carlisle, undisclosed), Alex Nimely (Coventry, loan), Ben Mee (Burnley, undisclosed), Wayne Bridge (Sunderland, loan)

MANCHESTER UNITED

IN Paul Scholes (unattached) OUT Federico Macheda (QPR, loan), DarEVERTON ron Gibson (Everton, £2m), Mame IN Biram Diouf (Hannover, undisclosed), Landon Donovan Josh King (Hull, loan), Ravel Morrison (LA Galaxy, loan), Darron Gibson (West Ham United), Scott Wooton (Manchester United, £2m), Nikica (Nottingham Forest, loan) Jelavic (Rangers, £5.5m), Steven Pienaar (Tottenham, loan) NEWCASTLE OUT Diniyar Bilyaletdinov (Spartak IN Moscow, undisclosed), Louis Pap i s s D emba C i s s e (Freiburg, £10m) Saha (Tottenham, free) OUT Alan Smith (MK Dons, loan)

FULHAM

IN Jack Grimmer (Aberdeen, undisclosed), Lasse Vigen Christensen (FC Midtjylland, undisclosed), Ryan Williams (Portsmouth, undisclosed), Pavel Pogrebnyak (Stuttgart, undisclosed) OUT Bobby Zamora (QPR, £6m)

LIVERPOOL

NORWICH

IN Jonny Howson (Leeds, £2m), Ryan Bennett (Peterborough, £3m) OUT George Francomb (Hibernian, loan), Korey Smith (Barnsley, loan), Oli Johnson (Oxford, free), Ryan Bennett (Peterborough, loan), Chris Martin (Crystal Palace, loan)

IN Jordan Ibe QUEENS (Wycombe, undisclosed) OUT PARK RANGERS Danny Wilson (Blackpool, loan) IN Samba Diakite (Nancy, loan), Taye Taiwo (AC Milan, loan), Federico MANCHESTER CITY Macheda (Manchester United, IN CHELSEA loan), Nedum Onuoha (Man City, David Pizarro (Roma, loan) IN £2.5m), Djibril Cisse (Lazio, £4m), OUT Gary Cahill (Bolton, £7m), Kevin de Bruyne (Genk, £9m), Nedum Onuoha (QPR, £2.5m), Bobby Zamora (£6m)

Former Everton favourite Steven Pienaar moved in the opposite direction, the South African midfielder rejoining the side on loan from Spurs.

Spurs also signed Blackburn’s New Zealand international defender Ryan Nelsen, who had his contract dramatically cancelled moments before

OUT Matthew Connolly (Reading, loan), Martin Rowlands, Petter Vaagan Moen (released), Bradley Orr (Blackburn, undisclosed)

STOKE

IN None OUT Michael Tonge (Barnsley, loan), Danny Pugh (Leeds, undisclosed), Tom Soares (Hibernian, loan), Ben Marshall (Leicester, undisclosed), Danny Higginbotham (Nottingham Forest, loan)

–Photo AFP OUT Tom Carroll (Derby, loan), Andros Townsend (Leeds, loan), Yago Falque (Southampton, loan), John Bostock (Sheffield Wednesday, loan), Dean Parrett (Yeovil, loan), Adam Smith( Leeds, loan), Sebastien Bassong (Wolves, loan), Steven Pienaar (Everton, loan)

WEST BROMWICH

IN Scott Allan (Dundee United, £300,000), Liam Ridgewell (Birmingham, £2.5m), Keith Andrews (Blackburn, free) OUT SUNDERLAND IN Joe Mattock & Jara Reyes (both Wayne Bridge (ManchesBrighton, loan), Chris Wood (Brister City, loan), Sotirios Kyrgiakos tol City, loan), Roman Bednar (Wolfsburg, loan) (Blackpool, free), James Hurst OUT (Chesterfield, loan) Nyron Nosworthy (Watford, undisclosed), Ryan Noble (Derby, loan), Jordan Cook (Carlisle, loan), Louis WIGAN IN Laing (Wycombe, loan). Jean Beausejour (Birmingham, undisclosed) SWANSEA OUT IN Nouha Dicko (Blackpool, loan), Josh McEachran (Chelsea, loan), Gylfi Sigurdsson (Hoffen- Daniel Redmond (Hamilton, loan) heim, loan), Darnel Situ (Lens, undisclosed), Rory Donnelly (Clif- WOLVES tonville, undisclosed), Curtis IN Obeng (Wrexham, £200,000) Eggert Jonsson (Hearts, OUT Lee Lucas (Burton, loan). David £200,000), Emmanuel Frimpong Cotterill (released), Daniel Alfei (Arsenal, loan), Sebastien Bassong (Tottenham, loan) (Wrexham, loan) OUT Adlene Guedioura (Notting TOTTENHAM ham Forest, loan), Sam Vokes IN (Brighton, loan), David Davis Yago Falque (Chesterfield, loan), Sam Winnall (Juventus, undisclosed), Louis Saha (Everton, free), Ryan Nelsen (Inverness, loan), Andy Keogh (Blackburn, free) (Millwall, undisclosed)

the deadline and so was free to join Harry Redknapp’s side. Meanwhile Manchester United parted company with Ravel Morrison, the highly

rated 18-year-old youth player who failed to establish himself at Old Trafford and has now signed for Championship side West Ham.

Mor r ison is regarded as one of the most promising youngsters ever to pass through the Manchester United ranks, but the club reportedly lost patience amid ongoing problems in his private life. “I’m really pleased to have signed. The move has happened very quickly and I’m looking forward to hopefully moving up to the Premier League with West Ham soon,” Morrison said on West Ham’s website. Manchester City meanwhile sealed the loan signing of Roma’s Chile international midfielder David Pizarro until the end of the season. The 32-year-old played under Roberto Mancini when he managed Inter Milan. “Pizarro is a good player. I think he can help us in the next three months because he is a good player. He has good quality,” he said. Chelsea signed Belgium international Kevin de Bruyne from Genk although the midfielder will spend the rest of the season on loan with the Belgian club, the London club confirmed. The 20-year-old’s transfer deadline day capture means he becomes the latest Belgian player on Chelsea’s books, joining compatriots Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois, currently on loan at Spanish side Atletico Madrid. Sunderland manager Martin O’Neill meanwhile said he hoped the capture of Wayne Bridge would solve the club’s longrunning vacancy at left-back. The 31-year-old has played only 58 times for City since joining from Chelsea in 2009, and has appeared for the club just once this season. “I’m hoping that with Wayne’s undoubted experience and ability he can be a big help to the team until the end of the season,” O’Neill told the club’s official website. Sunderland also signed former Liverpool player Sotirios Kyrgiakos on loan from Wolfsburg later Tuesday. Elsewhere West Brom sig ned defender Liam Ridgewell from Midlands rivals Birmingham, now in the second-tier Championship, for an undisclosed fee. –AFP