10-02-2017

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

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Officials not taking bribes, says Governor

ALL NIGHT LONG

LIFE

Laguna festival to fire up senses

Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx GOVERNOR TO APPEAL FOR SPECIAL ZONE ALLOW xxxxxxx.TO Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot BANGLA BARS AND NIGHTCLUBS TO OPEN UNTIL 4AM Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

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he crackdown on bars and clubs along Bangla Rd in Patong was eased this week with provincial officials revealing they will formally request that the government issue special dispensation to allow entertainment venues on Phuket’s prime tourist party street to stay open until 4am.

The crackdown began last Monday

(Jan 30), with all bars along Bangla Rd forced to close at midnight and nightclubs to kick patrons out into the street at 1am.

The reaction by the Patong Entertainment Business Association (PEBA) was swift, with PEBA President Weerawit Krueasombut and Patong scion Preechawude “Prab” Keesin, head of the Pisona Group of companies, along with 20 other night venue operators two days later filing a formal petition addressed to Prime

Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha calling for extended trading hours in the entertainment district.

“We have prepared a formal request to be sent to the Permanent Secretary of the Interior Ministry asking for consideration to allow entertainment businesses along Bangla Rd only to stay open – and sell alcohol – until 4am,” Phuket Provincial Chief Administrative Officer (Palad) Thawornwat Khongkaew, told The Phuket News on Wednesday (Feb 8).

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The request is for Bangla Rd only, Mr Thawornwat confirmed.

“This is because Bangla Rd is a very special tourist area,” he said.

Mr Thawornwat was part of the joint law-enforcement team with Patong Police Chief Col Chaiwat Uikum and Kathu District Chief Sayan Chanachaiwong who raided the bars and clubs on Jan 30.

“The petition submitted by the Patong nightlife venue operators will be attached with our official letter,...

SPORT

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RPM funds first Thai-made disability boat

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Light-rail pundits push for six new tunnels, cost to be calculated > page 7

Bangkok heeds call to action Governor in face-off with Tourism boss over corruption claims Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

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he Director-General of the Department of Tourism, Wanasiri Morakul, arrived in Phuket last Thursday (Feb 2) to question Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan and other officials about critical issues facing Phuket.

Among the issues raised were the ongoing allegations of officials extorting money from tourism businesses and migrant workers, the crackdown on closing times on bars and nightclubs in Patong and the current state of Phuket International Airport.

Sitting in the commander’s seat at the “Phuket Incident Commander Centre” at Provincial Hall, Ms Wanasiri opened the meeting with her focus on the current cam-

paign on “illegal hotels”, to bring operators who rent out properties for periods of less than 30 days, including condo owners, into the fold under the Hotel Act. To this, Ms Wanasiri’s instructions were brief. “We must make every hotel legal as quickly as possible,” was all she would say.

By coincidence, only hours earlier Gov Chockchai was in the commander’s chair, but publicly denying any highranking officials had taken bribes to allow illegal hotels to operate. This was not discussed when meeting Ms Wanasiri.

Regarding the crackdown on entertainment venues, forcing bars and nightclubs in Patong to close at midnight or 1am, Ms Wanasiri volunteered to act as an intermediary in resolving the issue.

Tourism Department Director-General Wanasiri Morakul arrived in Phuket to hear first-hand official responses to the slew of complaints against officials. Photo: PR Dept “I will help to find a way to resolve the matter, and to help investors in entertainment businesses, as this industry generates a lot of revenue in the tourism sector,” she said.

However, Gov Chockchai at that time made no mention on any further progress on the closing time crackdown,

despite obvious later machinations to request for Bangla Rd bars to be allowed to stay open until 4am (see page 1).

Instead, he talked about tour guides.

“Only Thai people can be tour guides, and Phuket has many illegal tour guides,” he started.

“I have found there are many Scandinavian tourists coming to Phuket, and translators are needed because Thai tour guides cannot speak Scandinavian languages. But translators must work with Thai tour guides,” Gov Chockchai added.

He then somehow concluded, “I can confirm absolutely that there are no illegal tour guides in Phuket.”

While Gov Chockchai’s awkward explanation failed to include any response to the call by former Phuket Senator Tunyaratt Achariyachai for a Bangkok-led investigation into rampant corruption among officials in Phuket – specifically mentioning harassment and extortion by officials against Scandinavian tour operators – he did at least acknowledge the alleged extortion by officials targeting migrant workers.

“Myanmar workers who had work permits and valid passports and other documents were caught – and charged – for working at a place not entered in their work permits,” he said.

“Foreign workers will be checked for the correct documents and work permits, and if they are working outside the restrictions in their work permits – we must follow law,” he said.

Incredibly, however, by this reasoning Gov Chockchai concluded, “So there is no extortion by officials in Phuket.”

In concluding the meeting, Ms Wanasiri said, “I would like to take this opportunity to encourage all officials to work hard for Phuket Province – and to let them know that I will bring all the information I have learned to the attention of the Tourism Minister.”

Bangla bars set sights on all-nighters Continued from page 1 ...which must be signed by the Phuket Governor,” Mr Thawornwat said.

The Governor, Chockchai Dejamornthan, however, is away in South Korean until tomorrow (Feb 11), Mr Thawornwat said on Wednesday.

“I will follow up on this with the Governor as soon as practicably possible and follow this up with the Interior Ministry. We are hoping for a formal response before the end of this month,” Mr Thawornwat said.

Phuket Vice Governor

Siwaporn Chuasawad told The Phuket News that Gov Chockchai rated the issue a top priority.

“Gover nor Chockchai wants to defuse the stress from this situation,” she said.

“The feedback from this is that the crackdown also had a direct effect on many people who are involved in the Patong nightlife industry,” she added.

Mr Thawornwat added, “This is an uncomfortable situation in a tourism area. I think it is a good idea if there is special zone set up. If the nightlife venues are able to

stay open legally, then tourists can enjoy themselves in a safe area.

“Most tourists go out on Bangla Rd at about 11pm. If the entertainment area closes at midnight, where they will go?

They might just keep drinking beside the road or on the beach, which risks their safety and only encourages criminals,” he said.

“If this special zone is approved to stay open until 4 am, tourists will remain in an area where the police and officials are able to look after them.

They will be safe,” he added.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Aussie to face charges for deadly jet-ski crash Yutthawat Lekmak reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

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homas Keating, the devastated 22-yearold Australian whose rented jet-ski fatally crashed into that of his girlfriend of two years Emily Collie, 20, was to be called to Karon Police Station on Thursday (Feb 9) to be charged with reckless driving causing death.

“Mr Keating will be required to present himself at Karon Police Station at 10am tomorrow (Feb 9) to be formally charged,” Karon Police Chief Col Sanya Thongsawad told The Phuket News on Wednesday (Feb 8), as this story was sent to print.

Mr Keating and Ms Collie were riding jet-skis near Kata Beach at 4:45pm last Sunday when they collided in the water at high speed, leaving Ms Collie with severe injuries to her neck and shoulders.

Mr Keating said strong sunlight reflected off the sea and made it impossible to see the jet-ski of Ms Collie, leading to the crash.

“We expect the case to take

MAIN: Royal Thai Navy officers treat Ms Collie at Kata Beach where the collision occurred.

Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub INSET: Tommy and Emily. Photo: Emily Collie / Facebook about a month to be heard in court,” Col Sanya said.

Mr Keating will not be permitted go home in that time, he added.

“He will not be allowed to leave Thailand while the case is being heard as is standard procedure, his name will be added to the Immigration list to prevent him from leaving the country while the case is in court,” Col Sanya said.

However, Col Sanya added that he expected Mr Keating to be handed down no more than a two-year suspended sentence.

Col Sanya said the Keating and Collie families had met in Phuket in the devastating aftermath of Ms Collie’s death.

“Ms Collie’s family said they understood that it was just an accident. They do not believe there was any intent

Teen in serious condition after drive-by shooting POLICE ARE LOOKING for a man and woman who took part in a drive-by shooting in Thalang last Saturday (Feb 5), leaving an 18-year-old man fighting for his life.

Staff at Thalang Hospital reported to Lt Col Sanit Nookong from the Thalang Police at midnight that 18-year-old Anurak Nakponkeaw had been shot and was receiving treatment at the hospital.

Mr Anurak had been shot once in his lung and was in a serious condition.

An unnamed 14-year-old boy who was with Mr Anurak at the time of the shooting told police that he and Mr Anurak were driving away from the Boo Seng Tong Shrine where they had been for a Chinese ceremony.

When they approached the Thung Thong ice factory on Thepkrasattri Rd, a blue Honda PCX motorbike with male driver and female passenger approached. The driver pulled out a gun and shot Mr Anurak once. Their attackers then sped away on the motorbike, he said.

Lt Col Sanit said, “I think Mr Anurak has some issue with the shooter. However, @thephuketnews

I am following up on this incident to find out who the suspects are and to bring them in to face legal action.”

Eakkapop Thongtub

The bullet hit Anurak Nakponkeaw, 18, in the chest, puncturing his lung.

on causing harm, or the death, of Ms Collie, and they also expressed their sympathies to Mr Keating for how he must feel,” he added.

Col Sanya explained police had no choice in pressing the reckless driving charge.

“By law in Thailand, when an incident results in the death of a person, police are required to formally press a charge,” he said.

PHUKET NEWS

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Kata jet-ski operators fined for no insurance POLICE FINED SIX JETski operators at Kata Beach on Monday (Feb 6) for renting out their watercraft without the required insurance.

However, it was not disclosed how much the operators were fined.

The discovery was made when Marine Police, Kata Police and personnel from the Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command carried out checks on jet-ski operators at Kata Beach following the death of Australian tourist emily Collie, who died when the jet-ski she had rented collided with that of her boyfriend on Sunday (Feb 5).

Thomas Keating, 22, and his girlfriend, Emily Jayne Collie, 20, were riding jet-skis near Kata Beach at 4:45pm on Sunday when they collided in the water at high speed leaving Ms Collie with severe injuries to her neck and shoulders.

Mr Keating said strong sunlight reflected off the sea and made it impossible to see the jet-ski of Ms Collie, leading to the crash.

Police on Monday confirmed that Mr Keating is to face charges of reckless driving causing death following the incident.

Officers also checked jet-ski rental operators at Patong Beach on Monday (Feb 6).

Photo: Supplied Wg Cdr Ratchapoom Nantawisut of the of Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command told The Phuket News that following Sunday’s accident he, together with Marine Police, Royal Thai Navy officers, Phuket lifeguards and Kata Police went to the area to check the legality of the jet-ski operators.

“The most important thing that we checked for at Kata Beach yesterday was the insurance coverage the jet-ski operators had for renting out their watercraft.

“During our check we found that six operators had no insurance cover,” Wg Cdr Ratchapoom said.

“All six operators have been fined,” he added.

However, he declined to confirm how much the fines were.

Yutthawat Lekmak

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PHUKET NEWS

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

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‘No bribes’, say Gov GENERAL MANAGER

Jason Beavan 086 479 7471

gm@classactmedia.co.th

SALES MANAGER Jittiya (Tiya) Rakdej 088 754 1371

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Officials not being paid off by illegal hotels

Police found the suitcases to be empty.

Left luggage spurs scare TWO ABANDONED SUITcases suspected of potentially containing explosive devices were found in two locations in Phuket Town last Thursday evening (Feb 3).

They were both found to be harmless after inspection by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team of the Phuket City Police.

One suitcase, left near Suan Luang Park in Phuket Town, had been found earlier by a council garbage collector, who found it empty and left it for its owner to return and reclaim.

Eakkapop Thongtub

The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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overnor Chockchai Dejamornthan in a high-profile press conference last Thursday (Feb 2) publicly denounced allegations that high-ranking officials had taken bribes from illegal “hotels”.

Speaking at the “Phuket Incident Commander Centre” at Provincial Hall, Gov Chockchai explained that he had been informed of the accusations, but he did not identify who had made the allegations or how the claims had become public.

“I have not received any reports of high-ranking officials taking bribes from illegal hotels,” said Gov

Governor Chockchai denounced allegations that officials had taken bribes from illegal ‘hotels’. Photo: PR Dept Chockchai, who is the island’s highest-ranking official.

“If any of them do, I will force them to face the law” he said.

The accusations came as the Jan 31 deadline expired for all operators who rent out

properties for periods of less than 30 days to register with provincial authorities as part of the government campaign to bring such illegal “hotels”, including condo owners, into the fold under the Hotel Act. “District officials are in

the process of checking all hotels that have registered (before the Jan 31 deadline).

After that the provincial officers will take over the project,” he said.

Gov Chockchai played down his threat just a week earlier that rental properties “would be demolished” if they continued to ignore the order to register as hotels.

“If we find that any of the hotels that have registered (before the Jan 31 deadline) are indeed illegal, we still need to see if they can carry out renovations to become legal,” he said, in reference to the five-year window that the government has allowed under a ministerial regulation issued in August last year to redress the issue.

Man dead in blowout wipeout SALES SUPPORT Siriporn (Nok) Seangmas 086 479 7470 sales@classactmedia.co.th

A 39-Y E A R- OLD MAN died on Monday (Feb 6) after his pickup struck a power pole in front of Central Festival Phuket at 4:30am.

The driver, Aroong Gikas, 39, was dead at the scene.

Police believe a tyre blow-

out caused Mr Aroong to lose control of his pickup as it rounded the bend.

“He was not wearing a seatbelt at the time,” said Lt Patchree Wongbhut of the Wichit Police.

Eakkapop Thongtub

PR MANAGER Natchaya (Nat) Sittiprasert 088 765 5881 pr@classactmedia.co.th

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

PHUKET NEWS

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run minvan hits Shakedowns, extortion Visa sign, runs off road ‘not for action by army’ Phuket Vice Governor Snith Sriwihok at the meeting on Monday, which was not attended by Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan.

Photo: PR Dept

The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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espite the ongoing headlines, illegal hotels and the corruption allegations of Phuket officials extorting money from migrant workers and targeting other foreign workers in cash shakedowns were not identified by the Phuket Governor as key areas that Phuket officials needed assistance from the Royal Thai Army in resolving.

The commander of the Royal Thai Army’s main base in Southern Thailand was handed a list of top issues that need “urgent” attention at a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall on Monday (Feb 6).

Lt Gen Piyawat Nakwanit, Commander of the Army Region 4 headquarters in Nakhon Sri Thammarat, and his Deputy Commander Maj Gen Pornsak Poonsawat, were handed the list, as defined by Phuket Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan.

Also present at the meeting were Phuket Provincial Police Chief Maj Gen Teerapol Thipjaroen and Phuket Vice

Governors Snith Sriwihok and Siwaporn Chuasawad.

“We have come to support the government of Phuket in dealing with – and improve on – issues that affect the people of Phuket and tourists,” Maj Gen Pornsak said.

V/Gov Snith explained that Governor Chockchai had identified key areas that need attention. Among the problems that needed “urgent attention” were the beaches, parking areas for rental vehicles, encroachment on public land, illegal hotels, foreign workers, illegal guides, pub-

lic transport, security inside Phuket International Airport and security across the island, namely through the police checkpoints.

However, at the meeting, the long list of problems plaguing Phuket was cut down and re-organised into three main categories that were to be given top priority.

First were the beaches, with sun loungers, umbrellas, hawkers, beach vendors, rental vehicle parking areas, illegal buildings and other encroachment onto public land identified as the top concerns.

Lifeguard in angry vendor face-off A M EM BER OF T H E Phuket Lifeguard Service stationed at Laem Singh Beach has returned to work after quitting the service in December after he was forced from his station by beach vendors.

On December 11, the unnamed lifeguard, who works alone at Laem Singh Beach, set up his government-issued shade tent where he had the best view of the beach causing upset to a group of beach vendors renting out beach umbrellas.

The angry group forced the lifeguard to take down his tent, stating they were “locals” and claimed the space as theirs to place umbrellas and mats for rent.

Fearing a violent confrontation, the lifeguard on duty disassembled his stand and finished his shift. At the end of the day, the guard turned in his gear, and quit the service.

A lifeguard supervisor first reported the incident to the Kamala Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor) and the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (OrBorJor), @thephuketnews

Angry vendors forced the lifeguard to move his tent from the beach. Photo: Phuket Lifeguard Service and then informed the Chief of Phuket Lifeguard Service.

Until now, no action has been taken.

However, Phuket Lifeguard Chief Prathaiyuth “Nut”Chuayuan (Nut) confirmed to The Phuket News last Friday (Feb 3) that since the incident, the lifeguard involved has now returned to the beach and a second lifeguard is now stationed there with him.

Being a lifeguard on Laem Singh Beach is not an easy job as the beach is isolated from neighbouring beaches by rocky headlands on both sides, and there is no

vehicle access.

The solo lifeguard stationed there must do the job alone. If multiple swimmers are in trouble, the lifeguard can call for backup, but additional help takes ten minutes or more to arrive. In the meantime, that one lifeguard must do everything possible to keep all swimmers in trouble alive.

After a rescue, victims who can’t walk must be carried up a steep rocky trail on a backboard to reach the nearest road. Every minute lost means a reduced chance of survival.

Matt Pond

The second most urgent area needing corrective action was public transport, which included parking areas, driver’s licences, fares, and of great importance, the issue of drivers’ uniforms.

The airport and security checkpoints across the island was noted as the third area needing attention.

No recommendations for action were made at the meeting.

Apparently that is to be addressed at another meeting to be held on a date yet to be confirmed.

A VISA RUN VAN FROM Phuket hit a roadside sign and was brought to a halt on the verge of a highway in Phatthalung, Southern Thailand, in the early hours of Tuesday morning (Feb 7) after the driver drifted off to sleep behind the wheel.

The minivan, operated

by Phen Phet Visa Ru n in Chalong, was carrying foreigners on a visa run to Penang, Malaysia, when the accident happened.

Capt Manop Suwanmanee of Srinakarin Police Station in Phatthalung Province confirmed the accident occurred at about 3:40am.

“The driver, Theerapong Thanrot, said he drifted off to sleep while driving. The van hit a sign for Srinakarin Hospital before he brought the van to a stop on the grass beside the road,” Capt Manop told The Phuket News.

“There were no injuries in the accident and Mr Theerapong was fined B500 for reckless driving,” Capt Manop said.

With the van stuck beside the road, Mr Theerapong called another van to pick up his passengers so they could

The van struck a hospital sign and ground to a halt on the verge after the driver fell asleep at the wheel. Photo: Katrin Vesna / Facebook continue their journey, he added.

Benjamapor n Phansa, Manager at Phen Phet Visa Run in Chalong, Phuket, confirmed to The Phuket News on Monday morning that her office was aware of the accident.

“Thankfully, everything is okay right now and the passengers have continued their visa run to Penang,” she said.

In October 2013, a Filipino woman died and 10 other foreigners were injured when a Phen Phet Visa Run minivan slid off a wet road and crashed into a tree in Trang. That van was also carrying foreigners on a visa run to Penang.

Tanyaluk Sakoot

6

PHUKET NEWS

Jeerasak ‘Ball’ Sitthichock, 36, was arrested on a warrant issued on Jan 23. Photo: Tourist Police

Fingered by mule, drug dealer nabbed TOU R IST P OLIC E ON Monday (Feb 6) arrested a 36-year-old Thai man wanted on an arrest warrant issued on January 23 for drug possession.

The warrant was issued following the arrest of another man on Dec 28 who told police he was carrying drugs for the wanted man.

Lt Col Naruewat Phutthawiro of the Phuket Tourist Police arrested Mr Jeerasak “Ball” Sitthichock, 36, from Phuket after discovering he was hiding out in a property on Soi Patak 14 in Karon.

“We arrested a man named Arnon Sitthitan, 26, on Dec 28, 2016, when he and found in possession of methamphetamine (ya bah) and crystal meth (ya ice). Arnon told us that he was carrying the drugs for Jeerasak.

“We obtained an arrest

warrant for Jeerasak from Phuket Provincial Court on Jan 23 and we had been looking for him since,” Lt Col Naruewat said.

“Yesterday we learned that he was in hiding at a property on Soi Patak 14 in Karon, which is where he was arrested,” he added.

Jeerasak now faces a charge of possession of a Category 1 drug with intent to sell.

Tourist Police arrested four people for drug possession on Dec 28 after learning that the drugs had been delivered to a local transportation company.

Police said that the total value of the drugs was close to B1 million.

At 2pm on Dec 28, Arnon turned up to collect a parcel.

Inside police discovered 994 ya bah pills and 87.5g of ya ice.

Eakkapop Thongtub

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Shots fired in expired passport rental spat Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

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62-year-old French expat in Patong has been charged for pulling a gun out and firing it in the middle of a fight with a Russian tourist on Tuesday (Feb 7) after the Russian had left an expired passport as collateral for a rented motorbike.

Frenchman Gerard Pecherstorfer, who has lived in Phuket for 14 years, was taken into custody by Patong Traffic Police on 50 Pi Rd (Hasip Pi Rd) around noon after police were informed of shots fired in the neighbourhood.

Mr Pecherstorfer, who according to his Facebook profile was a member of French Foreign Legion from 1986 to 2002, had pulled out a 9mm handgun amid a fight with Russian tourist Sergey Antonov, Patong Police Chief Col Chaiwat Uikum told The Phuket News.

Mr Antonov, from Moscow, and a friend rented a motorbike from Mr Pecherstorfer’s wife, but left an expired passport as collateral.

Phuket expat Gerard Pecherstorfer, formerly of the French Foreign Legion, is taken into custody by Patong Police.

When the men returned on Tuesday to continue renting the bike, Mr Pecherstorfer’s wife said they couldn’t, saying she needed a valid passport as collateral. While Mr Antonov’s went to fetch his passport, his friend stayed at the shop, but soon ran off.

Mr Pecherstorfer then returned from a trip to the bank and he and his wife gave pursuit. “They soon found Mr Antonov on the motorbike on

50 Pi Rd, where Mr Pecherstorfer pulled him over and they started arguing,” Col Chaiwat said.

The war of words escalated and Mr Pecherstorfer claimed that the Russian struck him in the face, prompting Mr Pecherstorfer to take a 9mm handgun out from under his motorbike seat and fire one shot into the ground, Col Chaiwat said.

“Mr Antonov then charged

at Mr Pecherstorfer and snatched the gun away from him. The gun fired during the struggle, but no one was hit,” he said.

Mr Antonov wrestled his French adversary to the ground and waited for the police, who took both men to Patong Police Station.

Mr Antonov was charged with assault but Mr Pecherstorfer now faces a slew of gun charges.

Two men die from electrocution TWO MALE ELECTRIcal workers have died after receiving electric shocks while fixing appliances in Patong last Friday afternoon (Feb 3).

At 1pm, Lt Col Weerapong Rakkhitoe of Patong police was informed by Patong Hospital that a man had died after being transferred to the emergency room for treatment.

Lt Col Weerapong arrived at the hospital found a man’s body with no visible signs of injury from the shock.

Police named the man as Thai national Detch Gamhlong, 27, who was fixing a lift in a hotel on Prachanukhro Rd in Patong when he suffered the fatal shock.

Staff at the hotel called Patong Hospital, which dispatched an ambulance to treat Mr Detch, but he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the emergency room.

At 1:30 pm, Lt Col Weerapong was again informed by Patong Hospital that another man had been pronounced

dead upon arrival at the emergency room, the death was apparently caused by an electric shock.

Police named the second victim as Cambodian national Mr Pao, 27, who was fixing an air-conditioning unit at a hotel near Tri Trang Beach when he received the fatal shock.

“We believed both cases were accidents. However we will have to investigate the incident further,” said Lt Col Weerapong.

Eakkapop Thongtub

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Going underground

PHUKET NEWS

7

Six tunnels touted in rejigged light-rail plans Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

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he revised plans for the decades-in-coming Phuket light-rail project shown to local residents this week now include six tunnels for the rail cars to pass through in order to avoid causing more traffic woes on the island.

All six tunnels are proposed to be in Thalang, with none further south than the busy intersection in front of the Tesco mall south of Thalang Town.

The plans were shown at two public feedback meetings: one at Thalang District Office on Monday (Feb 6), the other at Wichit Municipality offices on Tuesday (Feb 7).

Nirun Ketkao, Acting Director of Bureau of Regional Transport and Traffic Promotion, confirmed that the cost of building all six tunnels had yet to be estimated.

However, Chaiwat Thongkamkoon, Director General of Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning, confirmed that B23.4 billion had been already allocated as

The woman escaped serious injury despite not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

Skirt in bike spokes sends woman flying The latest proposal for Phuket’s light-rail project is build six tunnels, all in Thalang, for the rail cars to pass through instead of affecting traffic. Image: OTP the budget for the project – but that was for providing the tracks, 23 stops and rail cars operating from Phuket International Airport to Chalong Circle only.

“We have yet to confirm how the light rail is to cross (the water) to Tha Noon in Phang Nga,” Mr Chaiwat told The Phuket News.

So far the plans include options of having the light-rail cross Srisoonthorn Bridge, or

having a new small bridge built to run alongside the Sarasin Bridge.

Even the type of rail cars has yet to be decided on. Officials insist the cars will be “trams”, though the images presented at the public meetings showed a variety of types, with many shown requiring overhead power cables.

The new proposed route has also been altered, with the light-rail to continue all

Warning over fake B500 banknotes POLICE ARE WARNING people, especially tourists, to be wary of counterfeit B500 banknotes after several fake banknotes surfaced at a popular market in Phuket Town last Sunday night (Feb 5).

At least six fake B500 banknotes had been received as payment for purchases at the Talad Yai market on Thalang Rd, said Lt Somchai Noibun of the Phuket City Police.

“We are aware of the reports of the fake banknotes being handed around, but the vendors at the market have yet

@thephuketnews

A man holds up one of the counterfeit B500 banknotes.

Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub to file any formal complaints,” Lt Somchai told The Phuket News on Monday.

The vendors reported that teenage girls were responsible for handing over the fake

banknotes as payment for products, Lt Somchai noted.

The banknotes were identified as fakes as the print had been affected by water, and the print in the areas affected by waterstains had been “washed away” completely.

Because of this, police believe the fake notes were produced with a cheap printer.

“Everyone should be careful about this. There are many petty crooks who are always ready to take advantage of other people for their own gain,” Lt Somchai said.

Eakkapop Thongtub

the way north along Thepkrasattri Rd and a spur rail line dedicated to taking passengers to and from the airport.

Despite the many issues that yet to be resolved, Mr Chaiwat said, “We estimate the Phuket light-rail will be operational in 2021.”

Mr Nir un concur red, though he admitted that the project had yet to pass its crucial Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

KUSOLDHARM RESCUE workers in Phuket Town have cautioned women to be careful when wearing long skirts while riding motorbikes after a woman was sent flying last Thursday night (Feb 2) after her skirt became caught in the back wheel of the motorbike she was riding.

The 32-year-old woman, who rescue workers declined to name, was travelling along Phang Nga Rd when her skirt became caught and was ripped off her as it tangled in the spokes of her motorbike’s back wheel.

“The accident happened as she was riding past the ICBC Bank (the old Bank of Asia branch) at 8pm,” said rescue

worker Chukiat Ayuperm.

The woman suffered only minor scrapes and bruises, and escaped serious injury although she was not wearing a helmet at the time, he said.

“She was taken to Bangkok Hospital Phuket just in case,” Mr Chukiat added.

“In light of this, I’d like to want to warn everyone who wear long skirts while driving a motorbike to be very careful – this accident could have been much more serious,” Mr Chukiat told The Phuket News.

“You will not know that your skirt has been caught in one of the wheels until it is much too late,” he said.

Eakkapop Thongtub

Opinion 8

OPINION

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EDITORIAL

Paying the ultimate price

et-skis are back in the spotlight this week in the saddest of circumstances, with the death of 20-year-old Australian Emily Collie, the victim of a fatal collision off Kata Beach last Sunday (Feb 5). Our deepest condolences to her family and friends.

Our heartfelt sympathies also go to her boyfriend Thomas Keating, who was driving the jet-ski that struck her.

News of Ms Collie’s death echoed in headlines around the world, prompting officials to go scampering along the beaches to ensure the jet-ski operators were as legal as they could be with their token mandatory insurance coverage that fails to cover even minor damage to jet-skis – hence giving licence for the jet-ski damage ripoffs and extortion of tourists to continue. Even then, the knee-jerk raids this week still netted six jet-ski operators who

were found to be lacking the required permits.

Even more Kafkaesque, the officers were checking the “legal requirements” for an entirely illegal industry – which is nonetheless permitted with the full blessing of the government itself. If that does not epitomise Thailand, little else will. To put it bluntly, to systematically profit from engaging in, organising or aiding and abetting an illegal activity is the very definition of organised crime.

Beach management was at the top of Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan’s list of issues in Phuket that needed urgent attention – and assistance from the Royal Thai Army to fix – this week. Regular readers of The Phuket News will need no reminding that soon after arriving on the island Gov Chockchai publicly pointed out that he knew of no laws

that empowered government officers to issue permits to allow people to work on the beaches – and collect “fees” for such privileges. To no surprise he has since fallen silent on that issue – Welcome to Phuket, Mr Chockchai.

As many people posting comments on The Phuket News in the wake of Ms Collie’s fatal accident have pointed out, by law people must be issued a second-class helmsman licence to operate a jet-ski in Thailand. On the surface, this licence seems to be yet another ridiculous paper chase and another excuse for officials to hold jetski drivers to ransom, but it does achieve one thing: it recognises that a jet-ski is a vehicle like any other and is dangerous – nay, lethal – in inexperienced hands. Ms Collie has now paid the ultimate price for that knowledge.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Patong crackdown leaves Bangla Road deserted Aussie boyfriend to face charges over deadly Phuket jet-ski crash Phuket crackdown sees Patong’s Bangla bars shutter early Australian woman dead after colliding with husband’s jetski at Kata Celebrity race driver in trafficking raid spotlight Phuket bars, nightclubs plea for special Patong party zone Police praise automatic speed cameras Phuket warning as fake B500 banknotes surface Shots fired as Phuket former French Foreign Legion servicemen pulls gun on Russian tourist Phuket Opinion: Corruption – Rotten to the core

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY Jet-ski mafia far from blameless

Re: Aussie boyfriend to face charges over deadly Phuket jet-ski crash So this guy rents out two powerful watercraft to people who, to the best of his knowledge, have absolutely no experience of such potentially deadly vehicles, and when the inevitable tragedy occurs not only is he not held responsible but we are expected to applaud him for not demanding damages from the victims?

And today it turns out most of these cowboys don’t even have the “mandatory” insurance that pays out the measly B50,000 when someone gets killed. It’s time to get rid of these low-lives.

Captain Jack 69 I have seen the coverage this incident is getting in Australia. Thailand deserves every bit of negative backlash that comes from this terrible and unfortunate event.

I wish the Australian government would get involved and take these crooked Thai officials and jet-ski mafia to task, and if nothing else further expose this dangerous

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

ago, Why don’t the authorities close it down as they said they were going to Peter Rawai ...................................................

Not the land of Oz

Treated appallingly

place for what it really is... corrupt to the core – from the top down.

Ben Pendejo

Re: Australian woman dead after colliding with husband’s jet-ki at Kata Beach Someone has to remind visitors to Thailand that it’s the most dangerous country in the world for Australians. More Aussies die here than in any other country.

Don’t take any chances or risks when you come here because if you do get injured, the medical care here isn’t provided at the same level as Australia. There’s no helicopters or jet-skis coming to pick you up quickly and take you to a world class hospital with world class doctors and surgeons. If they get to you in time before you drown, you’d be very lucky. Its like Russian Roulette.

Australian Deaths Another unnecessary death caused by renting out jetskis to unlicensed riders in a industry that was supposed to be banned years

Re: Six Phuket jet-ski operators found operating without insurance, fined The poor guy hasn’t lost enough already that they will charge him? He is going to live with this for the rest of his life, such a tragedy. This place amazes me at the depths it will sink to.

No insurance and then fine the operators? How much exactly? A few baht and business as usual? I haven’t read about the bill for the damaged jet-ski’s yet either. No doubt these crooks will try and get the husband to pay for that too.

This whole country is like one big mafia. RIP Emily.

Sateeb ...................................................

No consequences

Re: Phuket to Penang visa run van hits sign, goes offroad as driver asleep at wheel You’re taking a huge risk if you use: Vans, taxi’s, tuk-tuks or buses. Because there’s no real

penalties to make Thai drivers responsible for accidents which cause deaths to foreigners.

Make no mistake, there’s around 90 deaths every day in Thailand. Thai drivers are protected by the police compared to other drivers because they are part of the transport mafia. They do not need to stop at checkpoints and drive at speeds at up to 160km an hour on a regular basis making it nearly impossible to stop or avoid an accident. The highway police simply take their money and do not deter them from driving unsafely.

Transport Mafia ....................................................

Re: Phuket Governor in face off with Tourism Dept boss over corruption allegations, Patong crackdown “Phuket is a major revenuegenerating province for the country.” Good to see someone from Bangkok has mentioned this.

Foot ....................................................

Re: Woman sent flying after skirt caught in motorbike wheel in Phuket Town That would never happen at Bangla Rd. Asterix

Have an opinion? Comment on stories at thephuketnews.com thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

THAILAND NEWS

9

Aussie sentenced to death Antonio Bagnato found guilty of murdering Hells Angel member PATTAYA Bangkok Post

T

he court on Tuesday (Feb 7) sentenced an Australian man to death for murdering a Hells Angels gang member in 2015, a lawyer at the trial said.

Australian Antonio Bagnato, 28, and US national Tyler Gerard, 22, were arrested after police found the battered body of Wayne Schneider in a shallow grave.

Bagnato was sentenced to death by a court in the resort city of Pattaya for detaining, assaulting and then killing the victim, Gerard’s lawyer told Reuters.

Gerard was jailed for two years as an accomplice to the crime, said the lawyer, Phipat Chantakul.

Bag nato’s law yer declined to comment.

The court found that the killing was premeditated, as the defendants had rented a house and a vehicle used in committing the crime, Mr Phipat said.

Gerard’s sentence was

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Antonio Bagnato was sentenced to death by a court in the resort city of Pattaya for detaining, assaulting and then killing the victim. Photo: Facebook reduced from an original three years because he had cooperated with the investigation, his lawyer said.

AP quoted Thai police as saying Bagnato murdered Mr Schneider because of a dispute over their drug trafficking which was said to

stretch from Europe to Asia and net millions of dollars.

The crime took place at 5am on Nov 30, 2015. Police were informed a group of foreign men beat Mr Schneider, an Australian fitness businessman, in front of his house in Jomtien Park Villa

housing estate in South Pattaya. They later took him in a Toyota Hilux Vigo pickup truck.

Police found at the scene electrical tapes, pieces of bullet magazines and foldable batons, three 9mm bullets, one blue-black cap, a

Casio wristwatch, sticky tapes and a sponge.

From the camera footage of its licence plate, investigators found the pickup tr uck was rented from a Pattaya Klang shop by a Thai woman. She testified her Australian husband had instructed her to do so and bring the truck to the suspects.

Late on Dec 1, police found an unusual spot in the GPS records of the truck – the woods 100 metres from the Viharn Sian-Khao Chee Chan in Sattahip.

They found Wayne’s naked body buried one metre deep there with a broken neck, cuts on the left eyebrow and several bruises.

They believed he might have been dead for several hours.

On the next day, police found the truck parked near Khao Phratamnak in South Pattaya and came to collect fingerprints on it.

They then went to a twostorey house where a witness claimed Wayne had been beaten and found bloodstains and other evidence.

Later, soldiers and immigration police detained Gerard while leaving the country.

After intense questioning, Gerard confessed he and four other men abducted and killed Wayne. Cambodian police also arrested Bagnato in the neighbouring country shor tly af ter. He denied killing Wayne but admitted he knew the other suspects.

He also claimed he came to Thailand just to watch boxing matches in Pattaya.

The investigation focused on business conflicts.

Bagnato was originally a bodyguard of the victim, who was in the Hells Angels group. He later split up to set up his own gang called St. Michael and conducted a competing business.

After several business conflicts, Bagnato and the other four men beat and abducted Wayne and brought him to Bagnato’s house.

There, they beat him to death before burying the body.

The other three suspects still at large are an American and two Australians.

10 THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Samui airport land row

The damage caused by wild elephants at Wanpen Kwannet’s plantation. Photo: Jumphon Nikhomrak

Elephants rampage in Rayong RAYONG A HER D OF WILD ELephants raided a plantation in Khao Chamao district on Monday (Feb 6), rooting up pineapples and tearing down rubber trees.

Wanpen Kwannet, 40, said she was woken late Monday night by the noise of elephants approaching her plantation, but did not dare go out to look.

Early Tuesday morning (Fen 7), she found the elephants had uprooted and eaten her pineapples and trampled rubber trees.

Mrs Wanpen said her plantation had been raided by the elephants before. She informed the village chief, but he only took pictures.

Bangkok Post

State or public land? Probe launched to find answer SURAT THANI

Bangkok Post

T

he governor of Surat Thani province has ordered a probe into claims of public land encroachment by Samui Airport.

The land covers 16 rai and is located at the end of the airport’s runway strip.

Bangkok Airways, which owns and operates Samui Airport, has rented the land plot registered as state property land from the Treasury Department.

The rented land is used as an air safety zone where construction of structures, buildings or tree planting around the airport are strictly controlled to prevent obstacles to air navigation as required by aviation law.

Previously, a National Legislative Assembly committee on national administration investigated claims of land encroachment by the airport as the panel found the land plot is part of a swamp forest serving as a water retention pond, which means

Surat Thani province officials are investigating whether Samui International Airport has encroached onto public land. Photo: Bangkok Airways via Bangkok Post the land must be registered as public land, not state property land.

Governor Uaychai Innak said a provincial probe panel has inspected land use by the airport.

According to initial findings, the land suspected of encroachment is a low-lying area with a canal running through it, which suggests it

may be a water retention pond and a canal, Mr Uaychai said.

The area is located at the end of the airport’s runway strip and is under the supervision of the Treasury Department, Mr Uaychai said.

The panel is examining whether the land was acquired legally. It is gathering information from residents, he said, adding the probe is

expected to be wrapped up this week.

Bangkok Airways said the company started renting the land plot from the Treasury Department in 1999. It has been designated as an air safety zone as required by the Aviation Act. The land is not located on the airport area, but is about 100 metres away from the end

of the runway strip.

The company also said it is up to state agencies to decide whether the land plot is public land or state property land.

The company is ready to provide information if requested.

A mor n rat K lu mplob, Deputy Chief of the Treasury Department, said officials are ready to restore the 16-rai land plot to the status of public land as recommended by a Treasury Department working panel set up to solve the Samui Airport land problem.

The panel has also recommended the department cancel the land rental contract with Bangkok Airways within 30 days.

Ms Amornrat said the department will need to discuss the matter with Bangkok Airways and study the contract’s details to avoid any legal problems with the company if the rental contract is revoked.

It is not known what recourse Bangkok Airways will have if the land’s status is changed.

Dec 5 remains national holiday BANGKOK T H E G OV ER N M E N T has announced Dec 5, which marked the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, as the National Day and National Father’s Day. In a Prime Minister’s Office announcement released on Tuesday (Feb 7) and signed by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, the government announced it had received a royal com-

mand of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun to establish December 5 of every year as an important day of Thailand for three occasions – King Bhumibol’s birthday, National Day and National Father’s Day. The announcement said the passing of King Bhumibol on Oct 13, 2016 had brought great sorrow to all Thais. To commemorate him and his lifelong contributions to the nation,

all Thai people should recognise the importance of the day.

During the reign of King Rama IX, Dec 5 was an annual public holiday when Thais celebrated the King’s birthday and wore yellow because he was born on Monday.

The day was also recognised as National Father’s Day. Queen Sirikit’s birthday on Aug 12 was known as National Mother’s Day. Bangkok Post

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

ASIA NEWS 11

Leaving memories behind Iraqi ski resort offers more than just relief to victims of conflict IRAQ AFP

I

n the fledgling ski resort of Korek in war-torn Iraq, the only battles are snow fights between visitors who often leave their traumatic memories at the foot of the slopes.

That’s what Fawaz Behnam and many of the children and adults frolicking in knee-deep powder around him like about the idyllic tourist spot.

He and his family were in Mosul when the Islamic State group seized the city in 2014, forcing them to flee, leaving their home and their jewellery shops behind.

“We were very tired and we want to have some fun.

Look at the people here enjoying themselves, not like in Mosul,” said the 35-year-old, his face flush from the bright sun and cold wind.

Korek lies in Iraq’s northern autonomous region of Kurdistan, where hundreds of thousands of Iraqis displaced by the 2014 jihadist offensive

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have found refuge.

“You can see the great atmosphere,” said Behnam’s brother-in-law Anmar Munir, a young accountant who also lives in the Kurdish city of Dohuk, further west.

“People are relaxed and enjoying themselves. This of course takes us away from the atmosphere of murder, displacement and persecution,” he said.

About 120 kilometres to the west, Iraqi forces have spent the past four months battling jihadists to retake Mosul, IS’s last major stronghold in the country.

Fawaz and Anmar are among the luckiest displaced who can afford to travel to Korek but hundreds of thousands are spending their third winter in displacement camps.

At a snow festival organised in Korek by the regional government, groups of young people, some in proper winter attire but many wearing flimsy city shoes, broke into traditional dance and enjoyed some of the activities available there.

The Korek ski resort is located on top of Korek Mountain at the altitude of 2,000 metres, 100 kilometres north of Arbil, and is the first resort of its kind in Kurdistan and Iraq. Photo: Safin Hamed/AFP Dozens queued for a ride on a zip-line, others raced each other on sleds and the most adventurous signed up for their first skiing class on a baby piste – but the most popular sports remained snow fighting and selfie snapping.

Nader Rusty, a spokesperson for the regional govern-

ment’s tourism ministry, has other ambitions for Iraq’s only mountain resort than just offering relief to victims of conflict.

“We organise this snow festival every year. It’s very important to improve tourism in general and winter tourism in particular,” he said.

Conflict-torn Iraq is best known for its searing temperatures and not exactly a tourist magnet but Korek is hoping to make a name for itself as a frontier skiing destination.

The year 2014 was tabled as the year Kurdistan’s tourism industry was to take off, and Korek was one of the flagship projects. However the devastating human and economic impact of the IS offensive that year and the subsequent war to retake lost territory left Kurdish dreams in tatters.

“Our target was seven million (tourists) by 2025 but because of the war, our plan has changed,” said Nader Rusty.

For now Korek lacks a ski lift but it boasts a state-of-theart Austrian-built cable car and swanky chalets.

James Willcox, a co-founder of adventure travel company “Untamed borders”, was in Korek for the snow festival with a group he believes was on the first ever commercial skiing trip to Iraq.

“We were skiing nearer to

Haj Omran, where the mountains are bigger and we were lucky that there has been lots of snow,” he said.

“So we took one day to come here to ski, to listen to the music, to eat and to enjoy the festival,” said Willcox, who also organises holiday trips to places such as Somalia and Chechnya.

Rohan Lord came all the way from New Zealand to ski in Iraq. “The skiing is fantastic. The snow is fantastic. The hospitality has been brilliant,” he said. When asked about the conflict unfolding in Iraq, he said: “We were nervous, there’s no doubt about it.”

For Mohammed Ghanem, a student from Fallujah – a city west of Baghdad which Iraqi forces retook from IS jihadists last year – the main appeal of Korek is precisely its remoteness from war.

“There is no nature like this (in Fallujah), nor any such safety. There are only explosions. You never feel safe and when you go out you are scared of car bombs or of being detained,” he said.

12 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Home to Brazil’s fallen mighty

Curitiba prison and its illustrious and infamous inmates BRAZIL AFP

T

he list of inmates’ names looks like the members’ directory at an exclusive club. But these former Brazilian ministers, congressmen and executives are not clinking glasses – they’re cooling their heels in prison.

The Penal Medical Complex in the southern city of Curitiba houses some of Brazil’s most illustrious or infamous prisoners, men who until recently knew power and wealth but after being snared in a huge corruption probe now live three to a 12-metresquare cell.

They include the once powerful Jose Dirceu, who was chief of staff for then president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

On the other side of the political divide there’s Eduardo Cunha – the seemingly untouchable speaker of the lower house who engineered the impeachment last year of Lula’s chosen successor Dilma Rousseff.

A cell of the Prison Medical Complex in Curibita, Brazil, where those accused of being involved in Brazil’s gigantic corruption scandal known ‘Car Wash,’ are being held. Photo: HO/National Prison Department/AFP The best known prisoners here are targets of Brazil’s gigantic anti-corruption drive codenamed Operation Car Wash. Prosecutors have unravelled a network of bribes and embezzlement centred on state oil giant Petrobras and involving politicians, lobbyists and executives.

In Curitiba, suspects and convicted men are spared the real horrors of many Brazilian prisons thanks to an odd law which sends people with university diplomas to better facilities.

However, one big name

brought down in unrelated bribery allegations – Brazil’s former richest man Eike Batista – was jailed in a standard Rio de Janeiro institution. Unlike many other white collar crime suspects he dropped out of university, a decision he may now regret as he sits crammed in an overcrowded cell.

Even for the luckier college graduates, prison must feel a very long way from their past lifestyles of chauffeurs, bodyguards, glitzy mansions and fancy cars.

“They all need time to adapt and some can suffer a

certain amount of depression,” Luiz Moura, the prison chief for Parana state where Curitiba is the capital, said.

“If they need psychological treatment we give it so that they can accept their new reality and realize that the social conditions they had outside no longer matter.”

Men accused of stealing millions can now earn more modest amounts with a bit of honest work.

Dirceu was one of the country’s biggest high-fliers, at one point touted as a possible successor to Lula before

Rousseff took that slot. He was incarcerated in Curitiba after being convicted of receiving an illegal payment of $3.12 million (B109.3mn), part of which was meant to pay for a Cessna airplane.

One of currently eight Operation Car Wash prisoners in Curitiba, he is serving a 20 years, 10 month sentence.

He gets paid 45 reais (B490) a month to deliver books to other inmates – although he doesn’t escape a 25% tax on his earnings.

“It’s not a librarian’s job because he isn’t qualified for this. It’s just distributing books, bringing them to cells and taking them back, as well as cleaning and maintaining the books,” Moura explained.

There’s a good reason why these prisoners might want to read: if they complete one book a month they knock four days off their sentence each time.

Even in this though, the system makes sure no one cheats: inmates are tested on whether they really read the text.

Cunha, a deeply conservative politician often compared

to the scheming, ruthless hero of “House of Cards” Frank Underwood, has yet to find a suitable job as he awaits trial on Car Wash-related corruption charges.

“There are a limited number of posts and we give priority to those who have already been sentenced,” Moura said.

Former congressional deputies Andre Vargas, who was sentenced to 14 years and four months, and Joao Argolo, sentenced to 11 years and 11 months, and the former Workers’ Party treasurer Joao Vaccari Neto, who got more than 30 years, all have cleaning jobs.

Other Car Wash prisoners who passed through Curitiba include Marcelo Odebrecht, the one-time construction tycoon who played a central role in the pay-to-play scheme at Petrobras. But while in Curitiba, he didn’t let the lack of things to do get him down.

“He was extremely disciplined. He established a routine of exercises and carried them out. When everyone was enjoying the sun or chatting, he’d be running,” Moura said.

Motorcycle pilgrims pay homage to Guatemala’s ‘Black Christ’ GUATEMALA SOME 30,000 MOTORCycle-riding Catholics left the Guatemalan capital last Saturday (Feb 4) on a pilgrimage to the eastern city of Esquipulas to venerate the so-called Black Christ.

The 222-kilometre journey ends with the devout paying homage to the Black Christ, an aged wooden likeness of Jesus grown dark over centuries.

The image is worshipped

by Guatemalans, other Central Americans and some Mexicans.

The first such ride took place in 1961, when a motorcyclist and fervent believer in the powers of the Black Christ – one Ruben Villadeleon, nicknamed “Zorro” – took the ride with a handful of friends.

The shrine and the city attract a huge influx of pilgrims and tourists every year.

President Jimmy Morales gave the signal to start this

Bikers set out to to visit a 16thcentury carved black statue of Jesus. Photo: Johan Ordonez/AFP year’s motorised pilgrimage. Participants left from Guatemala City’s Central Plaza for Esquipulas, which Pope John Paul II declared in 1996 to be the “Central American Capital of Faith”.

Organisers of the Caravan set up four stops along the way for riders needing refreshments or mechanical assistance, seven check-in points and four rest stops.

Most of the riders were planning to return home on Sunday (Feb 5).

Although the voyage began as a family tradition, most participants now are messengers or collection agents – among other profes-

sions that use motorcycles – who travel east in hopes of receiving divine favours.

Dozens of people don costumes for the ride. This year one dressed as US President Donald Trump and another as his predecessor Barack Obama, according to photos in the local press.

In 2015, organisers attempted to set a Guinness record for the largest motorcycle caravan in the world, but failed to meet all of Guinness’s requirements.

Guatemala gave the caravan national-heritage status in 2011 due to its huge popularity.

AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Phuket to host Thai Travel Fair roadshow TOURISM

Suthicha Sirirat editor@classactmedia.co.th

T

he Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA) will host a regional roadshow of the 20th Thai International Travel Fair at Limelight Avenue in Phuket Town on Feb 16-19.

TTAA Vice President Kritchanat Meesamran announced the event dates at Limelight Avenue shopping arcade last Friday (Feb 3).

The main Thai International Travel Fair 2017 (TITF 2017) will be held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok from Feb 15-19, with at least 314 tour and travel service providers taking part.

The Phuket version will be open from 10am to 8pm over the four days, Mr Kritchanat explained.

“The objective of the fair is to encourage Thai people to travel both in Thailand and abroad,” Mr Kritchanat said.

“At the fair we will have tourism information booths

From left: TTAA Vice President Kritchanat Meesamran, Sirikorn Boonyasiri, President of the T TAA Upper Southern Thailand branch, based in Phuket; and Prawit Thongwanichnoppakhun. Photo: Suthicha Sirirat and tour packages available at special prices. We want people who are attending the fair to get a great deal to encourage them to get out and travel.

“The tour companies joining the fair are all licensed and reliable,” he added.

Key travel players that will be taking part include the eight airlines under the Value Alliance consortium, hailing from the Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, Australia, Singapore and Japan Tour and travel packages made available at the fair will allow for crossover bookings across any of the eight air-

lines – Cebu Pacific, Jeju Air, Nok Air, NokScoot, Tigerair, Tigerair Australia, Vanilla Air and Scoot – through a bespoke booking system dubbed “New Distribution Capability” (NDC) made possible through the “Air Black Box” (ABB) computer network.

Katsuya Goto, President of low-cost airline Vanilla Air, which is wholly owned by All Nippon Airways, explained, “This system makes it easy for travellers to take flights, for example, from five destinations in Japan to destinations in other countries.”

Campbell Wilson, the

UK IP expert Weatherley to lead Phuket Business Dinner on Brexit ECONOMICS THE BRITISH CHAMBER of Commerce in Thailand (BCCT), will host a Phuket Business Dinner at the Amari Phuket in Patong on Monday, Feb 13, with guest speaker Michael Weatherley focusing on the topic “Brexit – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats”.

The event, organised in collaboration with French, German and Netherlands Chambers of Commerce, will start at 6:30pm and conclude at 9pm.

Appointed Vice Chairman of Motion Picture Licensing Corporation (Los Angeles) & Motion Picture Licensing Company International (MPLC) in London in June 2015, Mr Weatherley currently handles studio and government relations and acts as the World Wide Board Director of the world’s largest nontheatrical licensing company, operating in 34 countries.

Before joining MPLC, Mr Weatherley served as a Conservative Member of Parliament (MP) from 2010@thephuketnews

BUSINESS NEWS 13

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Former UK MP Michael Weatherley will be guest speaker at the Phuket Business Dinner at the Amari Patong on Monday (Feb 13).

2015 for Hove, focusing on intellectual property (IP) and copyright issues; and in September 2013 Prime Minster David Cameron appointed Mr Weatherley the first-ever Intellectual Property Rights Advisor to a PM. Mr Weatherley left Parliament in May 2015. During his term as IP Advisor, he wrote four internationally acclaimed reports. He continues to support and campaign for IP rights, attending conferences around the world and attending meetings with officials worldwide to discuss his recommendations for the European Commission on how to apply these observa-

tions to the current legislation taking place in other countries.

Mr Weatherley was active in the Conservative Party pushing the Prime Minister to hold an EU referendum and was a keen supporter of Brexit.

In addition to IP and Brexit issues, Mr Weatherley was Chairman of the Asian All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG), and the APPG for Small Shops and APPG Small Businesses.

Mr Weatherley is a qualified Chartered Management Accountant, owning a manufacturing business in Sussex prior to 2000, winning Sussex Company of the Year and awarded two Queen’s Awards – one for Export and the other for Enterprise.

To register for the event, email urosesri@bccthai.com or call 02-6515350-3.

Cost is B890, including inter-buffet & soft drinks.

Payment direct at the door.

The Phuket News The Phuket News is a proud media sponsor of the BCCT Business Dinner series.

Founder and initial CEO of Singapore Airlines’ low-cost subsidiary Scoot, and who is now Acting Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Singapore Airlines, said, “I am very excited that we have brought together eight airlines and I hope that our business will bring good service and good value to travellers.”

Nok Air CEO Patee Sarasin also supported the initiative, saying, “The fair introduces travellers to many more options, and this will be good for Thai airlines.”

Sirikorn Boonyasiri, President of the TTAA Upper Southern Thailand branch, based in Phuket, said, “Tourism is an excellent way to distribute income to local businesses. This fair will create opportunities for local agents to meet with tourists, and especially Phuket residents.

“The fair will also help local tour agents to grow and develop their businesses,” Ms Sirikorn said.

For more information about the fair call 089-7290101 or visit ttaa.or.th

Turkish Airlines to launch direct flights AIRLINES T U R K ISH A I R LI N ES will start direct flights between Phuket and Istanbul in July. According to the airline’s website, the new service will operate with four weekly flights from Istanbul starting July 17. Return flights will depart Phuket from July 18.

The airline will use an Airbus A330-300 aircraft, configured with three cabin classes.

Turkish Airlines has been struggling with losses since the coup and terror attacks last year that have not only cut tourism to the country, but also discouraged passengers who previously used Istanbul as a gateway to connect with other destinations in Europe.

The Phuket flights have considerable risks for the airline financially as Phuket’s low season runs from May through to October, when heavy monsoon rain hits the west coast resorts of the island.

Usually airlines would launch a Phuket service in November to get off to a strong start with the hope it could build up enough interest to

The new Phuket-Istanbul direct flights are to be op er ated with Turki sh Airlines’ Airbus 330 aircraft. see it through the low season months usually on the back of cheap holiday offers.

Turkey has been hit by a spate of attacks blamed on Islamic extremists and Kurdish militants, while tourists were further spooked by the attempted overthrow of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the July 15 failed coup and the subsequent crackdown last year.

Turkish Airlines’ hub at the country’s main Istanbul Ataturk Airport was the scene of recent terror attacks.

Up until 2015, Turkish Airlines was a rising star in aviation. The airline has for the past six years been the winner of the “Best Airline in Europe” award bestowed by global passenger survey organisation Skytrax.

TTR Weekly

14 BUSINESS NEWS

Paul Poole scores yacht show double MARINE FOR A SECON D CONsecutive year, Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co Ltd has been appointed to manage commercial sponsorship and partnership marketing for the Singapore and Thailand Yacht Shows 2017.

“After successfully wrapping up the second edition of the Thailand Yacht Show in December 2016, organisers 3L Events (Thailand) Ltd are already looking ahead by appointing Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co Ltd to manage commercial sponsorship and partnership marketing for the 3rd edition, once again taking place at Phuket’s Ao Po Grand Marina from 14-17 December 2017,” said a release issued last Friday (Feb 3).

“Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co Ltd will also package, sell and manage commercial sponsorship and partnership marketing opportunities for the next Singapore Yacht Show, to be held at ONEº15 Marina Club at Sentosa Cove from 6-9 April 2017.

“The Sponsorship Experts will work with organisers

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Leaps and bounds Russian arrivals return, Chinese stutter TOURISM The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

Now in its seventh year, the Singapore Yacht Show is one of the highlights on the regional yachting calendar.

Singapore Yacht Events Pte. Ltd. to develop a sponsorship and partnership packaging and pricing strategy, develop sales materials and operate a sponsorship and partnership sales service.

“The agreement includes pre-event planning, activation services during the events and post-event evaluation and follow up,” the release said.

Now in its seventh year, the Singapore Yacht Show is one of the highlights on the regional yachting calendar as one of the most important boat shows in Asia-Pacific.

The Thailand Yacht Show (TYS) was held for the first time in February 2016 at Ao Po Grand Marina on Phuket’s east coast.

The Phuket News

R

ussian arrivals are back to pre-crisis level while zero-baht tourism curbed Q4 growth rate, reports the newly released C9 Hotelworks Phuket Hotel Market Update for February 2017.

“With total airport arrivals surpassing 7.5 million passengers, Phuket experienced a sharp year-on-year rise of 18% compared to 13% the previous year,” noted Bill Barnett, Managing Director of hospitality consultancy C9 Hotelworks.

“This is largely attributed to the resurgence of the Russian source market, which increased by 51% last year.

The rebound was prompted by the strengthening of the ruble against the Thai baht and political volatility in the Middle East that shifted Russian tourists to the island during high season,” he said.

“Another notable source market is Mainland China,

With total airport arrivals surpassing 7.5 million, Phuket experienced higher year-on-year growth in 2016 of 18% compared to 13% in 2015. Image: C9 Hotelworks whose arrivals were substantially affected after a national-wide government crackdown on zero-baht tourism in September of last year.

The growth rate of Chinese visitors for FY2016 was down from 35% to 11%. However, the impact from the new enforcement is expected to soften in early 2017 with more Chinese travellers arriving during Chinese New Year,” Mr Barnett said.

Another key market issue is the influx of Airbnb and residential products now

competing in the hotel space.

“There has been a significant change in the Department of Tourism and Sports’ revised hotel supply data to include both registered and unregistered tourist accommodations in late 2016, with Phuket now showing a total of 81,727 keys in 1,744 establishments,” Mr Barnett observed.

“This shift demonstrates the Thai government’s focus on addressing the widespread proliferation of unlicensed accommodation and the provincial administration has

issued an ultimatum for illegal hotels to either register or face legal action,” he said.

The balance between two major source markets ended the year on a positive note as hotels’ RevPAR rose by 4%, which was propelled by a significant uplift in market-wide occupancy of 6.2% according to data from STR. “Overall Phuket hotels achieved slightly more than 75% annualised occupancy for the year,” Mr Barnett said.

“One key highlight of the C9 report is a 10-year perspective on growth in one of Asia’s leading report destinations.

Over that period growth in airlift has been threefold, which is a key catalyst in demand generation,” he added.

“The island has been successful in attracting new developments with more brand affiliated properties.

Currently, the hotel pipeline has a total of 5,495 keys in 32 new hotels which are expected to come on stream by 2020,” he said.

For the full report, visit C9hotelworks.com

Tigerair Australia axes Bali flights AIRLINES TIGERAIR AUSTRALIA has scrapped all flights to the resort island of Bali, the airline announced last Friday (Feb 3), after failing to obtain regulatory approval from Indonesian authorities.

Hundreds of tourists were stranded in Bali last month when the carrier’s flights were grounded temporarily after the airline allegedly broke Indonesian regulations.

“We have been advised by Indonesian authorities that in

Tigerair Australia has cancelled all flights in and out of the prime holiday hotspot island of Bali. Photo: AFP order to continue operating our flights to Bali, we would have to transfer to a new operating model that would take at least six months to implement,” Tigerair chief executive Rob Sharp said in a statement.

That “would compromise

our ability to offer low-cost airfares to Australians.

“Providing a reliable, lowcost service is critical for Tigerair Australia and our customers, and therefore our only option is to withdraw from flying to Bali altogether.”

AFP

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

A new way to tackle the trash in Phuket’s waters

16

Laguna gears up for Food & Music Festival

SIGNATURE STEAK

The massive ‘Tomahawk’ steak at Cut is best shared with a few friends, unless you’re very hungry. Photo: Supplied

@thephuketnews

19

Cut’s open-air dining area lets you see your steak while it sizzles > P18

16 COMMUNITY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Paddling against plastic Mark Knowles editor1@classactmedia.co.th

We were well aware of the rubbish issues around the island and as keen paddle-boarders, we wanted a way to be able to clean the water as well.

The boards were piled with bags.

A

locally based stand up paddle (SUP) board tour operator, inspired by the work of international organisation “Trash Hero” in Phuket, has joined in local clean-up efforts by mounting their boards and scooping up trash from the waters around Cape Panwa.

Paddle Phuket co-owners Kate Johnson and Sooksun Thongsen said that 11 volunteers with seven SUPs hit the waters off Khao Kad Beach in Cape Panwa on January 28, scooping up 130 kilograms of trash.

“Having lived in Phuket for a few years, we were well aware of the rubbish issues around the island. As keen paddle-boarders, we wanted a way to be able to clean the water as well,” said Kate.

Kate said the idea came about after joining the local Trash Hero group headed by Rich Cramp, the group is part of an international organisation with chapters in Southeast Asia, Europe and America, dedicated to cleaning up and reducing trash in the environment.

“When Rich talked about starting up Trash Hero Phuket, we were keen to get involved, but not just with beach cleans,” said Kate.

“We’d been able to scoop up plastic bags from the water with our paddles, but needed a better technique to be able to scoop other types of rubbish out of the water.

“We recently started up our own business, Paddle Phuket, which is a stand up paddle board tour company. After seeing video footage from a Trash Hero Bangkok clean, where they paired with Starboard SUP to clean up a river, we decided to have a go at a beach and ocean clean here in Phuket,” explained Kate.

Before long they had mustered a group of volunteers and outfitted their SUPs to enable them to pick up and collect trash from the water.

The volunteers with the rubbish they collected near Cape Panwa. Photos: Supplied “With seven stand up paddle boards, we put the word out and had 11 volunteers to help us. We attached fishing nets to the ends of our paddles and baskets to the front of the boards. This meant that you could easily scoop the rubbish out of the water and put it in the basket on the board,” said Kate.

“On January 28, we all met at Khao Kad Beach in Cape Panwa for the clean.

The water was surprisingly clean, however, we still managed to collect around 130kg of rubbish from the beach and sea.

“It was a successful morning and something we would like to organise again in the future. Thank you to everyone who came down and helped us out,” she said.

A good haul of trash.

For more information of to volunteer visit: paddlephuket.com; facebook.com/ paddlephuket; or trashhero.org

From a dream to reality

T

he women of the Phuket International Women’s Club (PIWC) work very hard raising money to help promising young Thais in Phuket, who lack the means, to get a higher education. All the work is done on a completely voluntary basis enabling 100% of funds raised to go to the PIWC scholarship fund.

A huge amount of work goes into this scholarship program, both in raising funds and selecting candidates. It all starts with the relationships with the teachers in Phuket schools who are in a position to identify the capable students. Kittipon Wongwatunyuta is a perfect example of how the scholarship fund can make meaningful, practical changes in the lives of young people here in Phuket.

Kittipon was referred to the scholarship committee by Phuket Wittayalai School in 2009, and after undergoing the interview process was identified as an excellent candidate to receive a PIWC scholarship. He had attained great grades at high school and was highly motivated by his dream of becoming a medical doctor.

The only problem that stood in the way of achieving his dream was the very expensive cost of a medical training program. His father, a chauffeur, who was very supportive and keen for Kittipon to realise his dream, unfortunately did not have the income to afford the course.

The scholarship which Kittipon received from the PIWC enabled him to set his mind to the big task of studying and passing exams, rather than having

With the support of a PIWC Scholarship Kittipon was able to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor. to worry about trying to find the money to pay for his medical education. After completing his high school studies, he attended Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Medicine from 2010 and graduated in 2016. He is currently working at Nakhon Nayok Hospital, northeast of Bangkok His family is extremely proud of him. The PIWC is also extremely proud of him along with all of the other students who have graduated and begun their lives with a much brighter future as a result of the funds raised by the ladies of the club. Without a solid education, life does not have nearly as many choices available for young people.

The PIWC ladies are continuing to work tirelessly raising funds for the scholarship program and hope to see many more students like Kittipon achieve their dreams, whatever they may be.

Donations for the scholarship fund are greatly appreciated. For further information please write to: scholarships@ piwc-phuket.com thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

HEALTH 17

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

The Tao to long life is daily yoga Catherine Triomphe

S

he is the “World’s Oldest Yoga Teacher” who, at age 98, still teaches five classes a week. But above all, Tao Porchon-Lynch is a poster child for health and positivity in a world obsessed by wellness and longevity. The former model and Hollywood contract actress – who earned her title from Guinness World Records – still has a delicate, slender physique.

Tao, as everyone calls her, grew up in India and lives in the New York suburbs, travelling the world attending yoga retreats. But more than yoga, she imparts a zest for life that has sustained her through nearly a century of existence, marked by encounters with the likes of Gandhi and Marlene Dietrich.

“Don’t be afraid,” she tells her class.

“Don’t let others tell you what you can’t do.”

She cautions her pupils against giving in to fatigue.

“Breathe, feel this life force within you.”

Students of all ages quickly become devotees.

“I am doing things that I never thought possible,” says Julie Ann Ulbrich, 52, who has been coming to Tao’s classes for eight years.

“If she can be 98 and still driving and still living on her own and doing

98-year-old Tao Porchon-Lynch has been recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest yoga instructor. Photo: AFP asanas like this, it gives me hope.”

In a Western society increasingly determined to ward off the onset of aging, Tao’s bracing cocktail of longevity and practical spirituality has made her a celebrity with an avid online following.

“I believed in nature and I believed in breathing. I did not want to pray to something or somebody out of space; I wanted to pray to something that was inside of me,” she explains.

“Look at the trees. The trees are hundreds of years old, at this moment they are all bare, they look like skeletons, they look dead, but they are not – they are recycling themselves,” she said.

Drum your troubles away RHYTHM NATION Marco Monti

I

magine playing a drum or percussion while sitting in a circle with other people and feeling a deep sense of joy and well-being. Wellness drumming programs are designed to make you feel good and heal, they provide stress relief, better health and a supportive environment. They are also a lot of fun and provide support for people who are feeling depressed. Wellness drumming has several benefits, one of which “entrainment”.

Through this process a person’s brainwaves synchronise to external rhythms engendering deep relaxation, lower blood pressure and stress reduction. Research

by Dr Barry Bittman indicated that group drumming activities boost the immune system by increasing the number of cancer killing cells. Another study indicates that a brief drumming session is enough to double EEG Alpha brainwave activity and foster calmness and euphoria.

One of the reasons wellness drumming programs can be a powerful experience is that they can provide catharsis. Catharsis is the process of “releasing and thereby experiencing relief from strong or repressed emotions.”

Many people experience relief in a new and different way with facilitated @thephuketnews

Guided group drumming can foster calmness and euphoria. group drumming. The deep reverberations of the drums provide a feeling in the body that has been described as a sonic vibrational massage... and it feels good!

It’s ideal for people in wellness retreats, hospitals, schools and even corporate settings. You can join a local wellness drumming program called HealthRHYTHMS every last Saturday of the month at The Green Man Pub. The price is B350 per person and its available in Thai as well. Visit: synergydrum.com/health-rhythms-thailand

Her life did not begin, however, in the most auspicious of circumstances.

Born on August 13, 1918 at the end of World War I, her mother died when she was just seven months old, and her father entrusted her to an uncle and aunt who brought her up in Pondicherry, then part of French colonial India.

She was raised a vegetarian. French and Hindi were her first languages. At 12, she met Gandhi when he visited the family home – “a funny little man sitting on the floor with glasses and everybody bowing to him” – she remembers.

Three weeks later, her uncle let her take part in what became Gandhi’s Salt March. From the father of modern In-

dia and her uncle, she says, she learned never to show contempt for anyone, and a sense of “oneness.”

The onset of World War II saw her leave for Europe looking for her father, who was called up in France. She found refuge with an aunt in the Rhone, who initiated her into the world of wine – one of her passions – and the French Resistance. After the Germans arrested a comrade, she travelled to London where she performed Indian dances for American troops. It was there that she met Dietrich, who became a “very good friend.”

After the war, she returned to France and modelled for Lanvin before travelling to the United States for the first time in 1948. She returned to America for good a year later and worked in Hollywood, under contract for MGM for several years.

In California, she became a yoga teacher after an Indian acquaintance in Hollywood pressed her to take up teaching. Her first pupils? The actresses Debbie Reynolds and Kathryn Grayson. She then travelled back to India to deepen her knowledge from the renowned yoga teacher Krishna Pattabhi Jois.

She was married to Bill Lynch, an insurance broker, for 20 years until his death in 1982, but the couple had no children and she has no close relatives.

“My students are my children,” she explains. It is with them that she celebrates birthdays.

AFP

18 DINING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Dining a Cut above the rest Mark Knowles editor1@classactmedia.co.th

C

ut Grill & Lounge is one of the latest additions to the trendy Boat Avenue street mall in Cherng Talay. It takes full advantage of its prime location, overlooking the lake near the entrance to Laguna, with its spacious and breezy al fresco dining area that feels relaxed and welcoming.

Overseeing the dining area are comanagers Arthur and Christian who are super-friendly and more than happy to recommend some dishes if you are having trouble making up your mind with the extensive menu.

Given this was our first visit, Christian recommended we try Cut’s signature starter – the “meter” of finger food. Served on a long wooden board, this selection of the chef’s favourite tapas changes regularly depending on his whims and the freshest ingredients available that day. But you are likely to get at least a few crowd-pleasers like crispy battered prawns with wasabi mayo, croquettes of bacala (salted cod) with creamy tomato dipping sauce and bruschetta with fresh tomato and Serrano ham. There is quite a lot to eat and it’s best shared between two to four people so as to leave room for mains.

Not surprisingly, given its name, Cut specialises in steak and other suc-

The enormous ‘Tomahawk’ steak is one of the most popular menu items at Cut Grill & Lounge. culent cuts of meat which are flame grilled in the open kitchen in view of salivating diners. Cut says it takes care to source the best available meat, with its beef coming from Australia and the chicken and pork sourced in Thailand from local chicken farmer Wichit Sonjai and Sloan’s artisan charcuterie in Bangkok respectively. Most of their organic vegetables are sourced from a royal project farm in Chiang Mai. Judging from the numerous nearby tables that had ordered it, Cut’s signature “Tomahawk” steak – 1.5 kilograms of premium Aussie Black Angus

beef on the bone – is a stand-out hit with diners, but again, best shared with at least two people.

Despite temptation, I declined to order the “Tomahawk” and settled on the more manageable 250 gram tenderloin with pepper sauce and a side of truffled potatoes and a green salad. My companion decided on the half farmer’s chicken with confit potatoes – another speciality of Executive Chef Jeriko Van Der Wolf, whose passion for the humble roast chicken is legendary.

Before long my steak came, grilled to a perfect medium rare, bolstered by

the flavour-packed truffle mashed potatoes. This was paired perfectly with a glass of bold French red from the short but well-curated wine list. A taste of my companion’s jealously guarded chicken confirmed that is was indeed juicy and subtly flavoured with Chef Jeriko’s secret marinade.

While the grill is the centrepiece of Cut’s culinary offerings, there is also plenty more to choose from, including pizza – from the simple margarita to a more adventurous “Norwegian” with smoked salmon on a creamy base and tipped with mozzarella and a squeeze of lemon. Pastas are also a popular choice, with lobster linguine as the attention-grabber. For a lighter choice there are your standard Caesar and Niçoise salads, or for something a bit more tropical, the pineapple prawn salad.

Manager Christian recommended we try the tiramisu, and it was plain to see this was an easy sell. The immaculately presented flower-like dessert was a symphony of coffee soaked cake and fresh cream sprinkled with crunchy chocolate crumbs.

The overall experience of Cut was friendly and relaxed, fancy but not formal, with attentive staff and a great view to boot. There is also a swimming pool sprawling out toward the lake for those who want to cool off, which give Cut a decidedly beach club like feel – I’ll have to bring my shorts next time.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT 19

Laguna’s top Chefs will battle it out but diners will be the real winners.

Celebrity Chef Audra Morrice (centre) and Laguna Phuket Chefs ready to whip up a feast. Photos: Supplied

A feast for the senses at Laguna The Phuket News editor1@classactmedia.co.th

T

o heighten Phuket’s status as a “City of Gastronomy” as conferred by UNESCO, the inaugural Food & Music Festival will create yet another premier lifestyle destination event within the Laguna Phuket resort complex in celebration of its 30th Anniversary in 2017.

The festival, to be held from Friday, March 3 to Sunday, March 5, will feature wine dinners, concerts, food trucks, pop-up food booths and more.

To mark the its significant 30-year milestone in 2017, Laguna Phuket will be presenting an exciting year-long campaign with several keynote events.

Staying true to its ethos of “empowering people throughout its celebrations”, a Children First Fund with the objective of “Nourishing Hearts, Inspiring Dreams” has been set up specially. Part of the proceeds of the key events will be donated to support of the nutrition of needy children in Phuket’s orphanages.

“Marking our 30th Anniversary with the focus of nurturing future generations, we have set up the Children First Fund.

“The first-ever Laguna Phuket Food & Music Festival, working with popular Celebrity Chef Audra Morrice, and our other key events throughout the year will be unique platforms to raise funds for needy children, to assist the develop-

Music and entertainment will be provided by talented artists like Black ‘n’ Blue and Gam. @thephuketnews

ment of aspiring youths and give back to the community we operate in,” said Ravi Chandran, Managing Director of Laguna Phuket.

Kicking off the festivities on March 3, various Laguna Phuket resorts will be whipping up sumptuous Music & Wine dinners. On March 4, a Festival held at Canal Village near the tranquil lagoons will feature ‘live’ culinary demonstrations by Australian realitytelevision show MasterChef Asia Judge, Chef Audra Morrice, along with other international chefs, pop-up concept food booths serving a tantalizing array of international and Peranakan cuisine, food truck and drink garden. All of this will be accompanied by vibrant professional musical performances. There will also be the very first Laguna Phuket Chefs Challenge – emphasising the use of local ingredients and featuring performances by aspiring youth bands.

The festival’s star-studded Charity Gala Dinner, with fundraising auctions, will be held on March 4 at the resort’s grand Latitude Marquee with multiple celebrity stars appearing, such as Black ‘n’ Blue band, Gam, Fivera, Jazziam – to name just a few. The Charity Gala Dinner is priced at B3,000 per person or B28,000 for a table of ten.

The Laguna Phuket Charity Super Sunday Brunch on March 5 will take place at XANA Beach Club and is priced at B1,950 nett per person and B2,900 nett per person with free-flow beverages.

Gala tickets are available for sale now at all Laguna Phuket resorts – Ang-

sana Laguna Phuket, Angsana Villas Resort Phuket, Banyan Tree Phuket, Cassia Phuket, Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, Laguna Holiday Club Phuket Resort and Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort; as well as the Laguna Tours Desk and the Laguna Tours Office in Canal Village and online at ticket@lagunaphuket.com. Advance booking is recommended.

For more information please visit: lagunaphuket.com/foodandmusicfestival, call +66 (0) 76 362300 ext. 1404 or email ticket@lagunaphuket.com and follow on Facebook/LagunaPhuketResort.

There will be an array of tantalizing food options.

T

he history of Valentine’s Day — and its patron saint — is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman traditions.

So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognises at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.

One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men – his crop of potential soldiers.

Valentine defied Claudius and

continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.

Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were often beaten and tortured. According to one legend, Valentine actually sent the first “Valentine” greeting himself. While in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl – who may have been his jailor’s daughter – who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed “From your Valentine” an expression that is still in use today.

Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories certainly emphasise his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic,

and, most importantly, romantic figure. It’s no surprise that by the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France.

While some believe that Valentine’s Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine’s death or burial – which probably occurred around 270 AD – others claim that the Christian church may have decided to celebrate Valentine’s feast day in the middle of February in an effort to “Christianise” celebrations of the pagan Lupercalia festival.

In ancient Rome, February was the official beginning of spring and was considered a time for purification. Houses were ritually cleansed by sweeping them out and then sprinkling salt and a type of wheat called spelt throughout their interiors.

Lupercalia, which began at the ides of February, February 15,

was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus.

To begin the festival, members of the Luperci, an order of Roman priests, would gather at the sacred cave where the infants Romulus and Remus were believed to have been cared for by a she-wolf, or lupa. The priests would then sacrifice a goat, for fertility, and a dog, for purification.

The boys then sliced the goat’s hide into strips, dipped them in the sacrificial blood and took to the streets, gently slapping both women and fields of crops with the goathide strips. Far from being fearful, Roman women welcomed being touched with the hides because it was believed the strips would make them more fertile in the coming year.

Later in the day, according to legend, all the young women in the city would place their names in a big urn. The city’s bachelors would then each choose a name out of the urn and become paired for the year with his chosen woman.

These matches often ended in marriage.

Pope Gelasius declared February 14 as St Valentine’s Day

around 498 AD The Roman “lottery” system for romantic pairing was deemed un-Christian and outlawed.

Later, during the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of birds’ mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of February – Valentine’s Day – should be a day for romance.

The oldest known Valentine still in existence today was a poem written by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt.

The greeting, which was written in 1415, is part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England.

Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a Valentine note to Catherine of Valois.

In Great Britain, Valentine’s Day began to be popularly celebrated around the seventeenth century. By the middle of the 18th century, it was common for friends and lovers in all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes.

By the end of the century, printed cards began to replace written letters due to improvements in printing technology. Ready-made cards were an easy way for people to express their emotions in a time when direct expression of one’s feelings was discouraged. Cheaper postage rates also contributed to an increase in the popularity of sending Valentine’s Day greetings.

Americans probably began exchanging hand-made Valentines in the early 1700s. In the 1840s, Esther A Howland began to sell the first mass-produced Valentine’s Day cards in America. Known as the Mother of the Valentine, she made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colourful pictures.

According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated one billion Valentine cards are sent each year, making Valentine’s Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year (an estimated 2.6 billion cards are sent for Christmas).

In addition to the United States, Valentine’s Day is also strongly celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, and Australia.

Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages – written Valentine’s didn’t begin to appear until after 1400 – and the oldest known Valentine’s card is on display at the British Museum.

Happy Valentine’s Day

22 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

A cast of colourful characters after completing the course.

The kids clearly enjoyed taking part in the event.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Phuket Has Been Good To Us will use the money to help local kids.

Children who completed the obstacle course were rewarded with a medal.

A COLOURFUL AND FUN FAMILY DAY AT THE OBSTACLE CHALLENGE Last Saturday (Feb 4), Royal Phuket Marina hosted the “Family Colour Obstacle Challenge” in support of Phuket Has Been Good To Us. Dozens of families battled their way through the exciting obstacle course while getting covered in coloured flour, making the day very kaleidoscopic indeed. Money raised will fund English education programs for more than 1,200 underprivileged Thai children. The event was proudly supported by Live 89.5 and The Phuket News.

From left: Khun Tachapan (Sunsuri Phuket), Teerapong Taodang (Deputy Mayor of Rawai – holding basket - and his team), Urs Aebi (CCC Hotels & Resorts), Claude Baltes (Sunsuri Phuket), Hajo von Keller (Mangosteen), Frank Grassmann and Khun Roong (The Nai Harn).

RAWAI-NAIHARN BUSINESS COMMUNITY DONATE BINS FOR NAIHARN BEACH Last Thursday (Feb 2), representatives of the Rawai Naiharn business community donated twenty trash bins to Rawai Municipality. These are now set-up along Naiharn Beach and will hopefully help to get the trash “out of the beach and into the bins”. The bins will be emptied daily and inspected on a regular basis.

Some of the kids showing off their medals and stickers.

Scores of cyclists came out to ride for the event.

PHUKET CITY MUNICIPALITY HOLDS CYCLING EVENT TO PROMOTE OLD TOWN TOURISM Phuket City Mayor Somjai Suwansupapana led a procession of cyclists on a ride around Phuket Old Town recently. The event was designed to promote tourism in Phuket and encourage locals and tourists alike to get fit by riding a bike instead of a motorised vehicle.

Phuket City Mayor Somjai Suwansupapana.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 23

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Mayor Somjai Suwansupapana with children in traditional Baba-style clothing.

Phuket Town Mayor Somjai leads the procession through Old Town.

Young children dressed in Chinese-style clothes for the parade.

Traditional batik print dresses were among the fashion.

PHUKET HONOURS ITS RICH HERITAGE DURING ANNUAL OLD TOWN FESTIVAL The Phuket Old Town Festival took place last weekend (Feb 2-4) with locals and tourists flocking to Phuket’s historic Old Town district to enjoy the many musical performances and the hundreds of stalls lining the streets for the festival. A procession wearing traditional clothing also made its way through Old Town.

Rotary members were resplendent in white.

White smiles also featured prominently.

The gala event brought the community together.

ROTARY’S WHITE WATER GALA CHARITY DINNER A SUCCESS The Rotary Club of Patong Beach recently held its annual charity dinner “White Water Gala” at Latitude in Laguna Phuket on February 4. The dinner raised funds to purchase 1,000 Kohler Clarity clean water filters to be installed in schools across Phuket, providing clean drinking water for students. For more information about the project visit rotarypatong.org

JANUARY’S TRASH HERO PHUKET WINNER SCOOPS PRIZES

From left: Deputy Mayor Kavee Tansukhatanon, Dr Weerawat Yorsaengrat and Piyarat Kulvanich.

Tess Tjernstrom from HeadStart International School won this month’s Trash Hero Phuket Student Challenge.

She gets two tickets to Surf House Kata Beach, a Trash Hero T-shirt and a Trash Hero reusable bottle.

Well done for making a difference, Tess. Want to enter? Visit facebook. com/trashherophuket for more information.

RUN FOR HEALTH RUN FOR CHARITY MINI-MARATHON ANNOUNCED Phuket International Hospital held a press conference on Jan 31 to announce the fifth annual Run for Health Run for Charity Mini-Marathon. Winners’ trophies will be from HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Dr Weerawat Yorsaengrat, Medical Director of Phuket International Hospital, Phuket City Deputy Mayor Kavee Tansukhatanon, and Patient Experience Management Director Piyarat Kulvanich joined hands to deliver keynote addresses. The mini-marathon will take place on Feb 19 with the theme of the “RUN for the New Me”. @thephuketnews

Tess Tjernstrom from HeadStart International School.

24 EVENTS

FRI

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

10 FEB

SUN

12 FEB

ported seafood with exception Lobster dished, Japanese starters, mouth-watering meats, Asia wok and Western grill treats. Gourmet cuisine, exceptional service, Live Jazz and tranquil surroundings, The Banyan Tree has something for everyone! Every Sunday 12.00-15.30, price start from 2,800net per person.

Reservations, Banyan Tree Phuket, fb-phuket@banyantree.com, 076 372 400.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Mango, Green Apple And Cherry Tomatoes Bedded On Crisp Greens With A Citrus Dressing MAIN COURSE 8 Hour Braised Australian Beef Foie GrasRed Wine Sauce, Scalloped Potatoes And Roasted Vegetables Or Pistachio Crusted Salmon Prosecco Cream Sauce, Grilled Asparagus, Confit Tomatoes And Parmesan Roasted Baby Potatoes DESSERT White Chocolate And Strawberry Panna Cotta www. twochefs.com Reservations, , Kata Beach 076-333370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914.

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach ALL YOU CAN EAT BBQ RIBS Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY served ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in All You Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs, Chicken and Sides for ONLY 395 BAHT! Our BBQ is famous at Two Chefs!

Come try us out and enjoy our mouthwatering pork ribs, flavor-bursting chicken and more! Join us for Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD - Stay for the FUN at Two Chefs!!! www.twochefs.com Kata Beach 076333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286479 Patong 076-344-914

Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B350 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See: otoolsphuket.com.

Celebration of love on Valentine’s Day at La Gritta La Gritta restaurant is organizing a romantic dinner for guests who are looking for a wonderful dining venue overlooking Patong Bay to treat a loved one on Valentine’s Day, 14 February 2017, from 19:00 until midnight. Chef Patrizia has crafted a tantalising fivecourse menu for two. Guests will also enjoy the special Valentine’s beverage, as well as tea and coffee, to complete the night. The price of a dinner per couple is starting from 4,600 THB++.Visit: www.lagritta.com.

Reservations, lagritta@amari.com, 076 292 697.

Sunday Fun Brunch Phuket’s most popular brunch experience. Seafood, live station, entertainment, kid’s corner and massage corner. From 1,650++ THB. 12.00 - 15.30. Reservation: info@xanabeachclub.com 076 358 500.

Pool Competition at Expat Sports Bar The competition at 9pm - Expat Sports Bar at the Expat Hotel Soi Taipan Patong.

See map at www.expathotel.com.

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet Beef, Pork & Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, fried mushrooms, grilled tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sauce, mint sauce. Reservation recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

Mussels night @ Shakers

MON

13 FEB

All you can eat BBQ night

1.2kg mussels served with french fries, your choice, your style: nature, marnière, provençale, garlic & cream or Thai style. Reservations recommended B295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

6PM – 11PM: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns & Squids, salad buffet, Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended. 395 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

Sunday Roast All Day All Night Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Beach, Kata Center, Karon and Patong! Indulge ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT for 395 Baht! Enjoy a Large ALL YOU CAN EAT selection of your favorites! Featuring: Roast Aussie Beef, Pork Loin and Chicken. Roasted or Mashed Potatoes.

Roasted Mixed Vegetables Flavored with Thyme and Garlic. Yorkshire Pudding and Red Wine Gravy. Enjoy Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD - Stay for the FUN! www.twochefs.com Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914

Friday is Wine & Tapas night at Cape Sienna Hotel Kamala All you can eat Tapas with one bottle of Regular White or Red: Baht 1,490 net per person. Premium White, Red, Rose and Bubbly: Baht 1,790 net per person.

Tapas starts: 19:00 – 22:00. Located Vanilla Sky Bar, Cape Sienna Hotel, Kamala. 076 337 300.

SAT

11 FEB

Mediterranean Sunday Brunch at Metzo’s Feast to your heart’s content on our Mediterranean menu of mezze and tapas served family style at your table, live cooking station, kids’ corner and dessert buffet. After brunch, why not relax and take in the view of the Andaman Sea with complimentary access to the resort swimming pool. Starting from THB 990++ per person. Reservations, Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort, metzos@outrigger.co.th, 076 360 600.

Romantic Valentine’s Dinner Enjoy a romantic-filled experience with delectable dinner infused with aphrodisiac flavors this Valentine’s Day at Bodega & Grill. Dinner 6.00 pm onward. Food only: B2,900++ per person. Beverage: B3,500++ per person. Reservations: FBReservationLagunaPhuket@angsana.com, 076 358 500 Extension 8938.

PHUKET BUSINESS DINNER (BREXIT) BCCT in collaboration with French, German and Netherlands Chambers of Commerce cordially invites you to a Phuket Business Dinner. Topic: Brexit – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. Speaker: Michael Weatherley. Cost: THB 890 including interbuffet and soft drinks. Other beverages are on guest’s own account at B100 net/glass. Payment direct at the door to hotel. Booking email urosesri@bccthai.com Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News.

TUE

Bubble Valentine’s Party 300 THB including a complimentary bubbly drink for single Or a special bubbly bottle for couple. Reservations, XANA Beach Club, FBReservation-LagunaPhuket@angsana.com, 076 358 500.

14 FEB

Romance on the Deck Live Sports at Expat Hotel NRL, AFL, Soccer, Rugby Union. Any live sport, we will show it. Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com.

Go Live Sunday Seafood Brunch

Valentines at Two Chefs

The Banyan Tree Seafood Brunch experience returns with a generous selection of live fresh, local and im-

Including: AMUSE BOUCHE Prawn Ceviche FIRST COURSE Butter Poached Lobster Salad Fresh

6 Bookings only - on private deck. B16,000 set menu per couple including a bottle of premium selected beverages. 10 Booking only - 10 the terrace. B12,000 set menu per couple including a bottle of premium selected beverages. Reservations: Banyan Tree, fbphuket@banyantree.com, 076 372 400.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EVENTS 25

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

TUE

14 FEB

THU

16 FEB

PIWC February Luncheon

Valentine’s Day Follow your heart to Kata Rocks this Valentine’s day.

Treat your sweetheart to an unforgettable Valentine’s experience. This year, Kata Rocks is offering a wide selection of room and dining packages to make Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable. Dinner priced at THB 3,800++ per person. Reservations, Kata Rocks, Dining@katarocks.com

Friday March 3 Pop-up Dinners at Laguna Phuket Hotels Saturday March 4 Food & Music Festival at Canal Village - Free entry and Charity Gala Dinner at Latitude Marquee Sunday March 5 Supper Sunday Brunch at XANA Beach Club. Ticket for Charity Gala Dinner available from Feb 1 at Laguna Phuket Hotel: B3,000/person or B28,000 for table of ten. For tickets and more info please contact Laguna Phuket.

Proudly sponsored by Live 89.5 and Khao Phuket

MON

6 MAR

The monthly lunch price is 600 baht for members and guests are charged 750 baht per person.

Registration begins at 11:30AM with the lunch service starting at 12:15PM. Lunch RSVP is required, send email to info@piwc-phuket.com All monthly lunch proceeds fund PIWC Scholarship Awards and your support is greatly appreciated.

SUN

19 FEB

Ride 4 Kids Hua Hin to Phuket, 835 KMS in 6 Days. 3 charities, 1 mission. Donations accepted at www.ride4kids.co

SUN

19 MAR

RUN FOR HEALTH RUN FOR CHARITY

Valentine’s Day at Nook-Dee Resort Treat your sweetheart to a romantic stunning view over Andaman ocean dinner. Offering a romantic Valentine’s day set dinner @THB 2,999++ per couple, With live music ensuring a proper mood to share your love and happiness. On 14 February, 2017 start 19:00-22:00 Reservations are always recommended to avoid disappointment Please contact 076 688888 or info@roydee.com

WED

15 FEB

The 5th mini-marathon with royal trophies is taking place on Sunday, February 19, 2017 from 4am onwards at Phuket International Hospital. Race distance: Mini marathon 12km, Fun Run 5.7km and Family Run 3.5km. Apply at registration booth, 3rd floor, New Building, Phuket International Hospital on Feb 14 - 17 (9.00 - 17.00 hrs.), Feb 18 (9.00 22.00 hrs.) and Feb 19 (4.00 - 5.30 am). Download the entry form www.phuketinternationalhospital.com Proudly sponsored by Khao Phuket.

WED

7 Nights 7 Themed Dinners at Rim Talay

Supersports 10 Mile International Run

22 FEB

Thanyapura Phuket, in cooperation with Supersports, Thailand’s leading sports retailer, will organise the third edition of the Supersports 10 Mile International Run in March 2017, with an expected crowd of over 3,000 runners. This challenging race is open to runners of all ages, featuring four running distances and categories from 500 meters to 10 miles. Register online at thanyapura.com Proudly sponsored by Khao Phuket.

EVERY DAY Dine 4 Pay 3 Oriental Buffet Dinner Extravaganza Embark on a journey to the four corners of Asia and enjoy a lavish array of Thai, Chinese, Japanese and other Oriental recipes. Develop your taste buds and experience new flavours; ranging from spicy curries to barbecued meats and local noodle plates, while watching our Chefs work their magic in the lively kitchen every Wednesday from 18:00 – 22:00 for THB 999 per person at Bubbles Restaurant, Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas. Reservations, Bubbles Restaurant, Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas, h8109@accor.com, 076 231 999.

STEVE AOKI Live at Illuzion Steve Aoki debuts at ILLUZON Phuket The mostpopular EDM DJ will be spinning an EXCLUSIVE LIVE SET and of course throwing his popular CAKES! WEDNESDAY 22nd FEBRUARY --------------------------Standard pre save Ticket 1,000 THB. VIP RESERVATION: +66 98.024.6369 | rsvn@illuzionphuket.com

FRI

3 MAR

All Day Breakfast at Cafe Siam All you can eat BBQ Ribs night 6PM – 11PM: All you can eat BBQ Ribs served with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauces. Reservation recommended. 350 baht P.P. shakersphuket@ gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

@thephuketnews

Laguna Phuket Food & Music Festival 2017 Laguna Phuket Food & Music Festival 2017. Proceeds go to Children First Fund for orphanages in Phuket.

Aussie bacon & egg rolls NOW at Cafe Siam. All day breakfast, just like mum makes. Lavazza Coffee, healthy snacks & salads. Find us at the Entrance of The Royal Paradise Complex, Patong. Mon - Sat 8.30am - 4.00pm. Facebook: CafeSiamGuesthousePhuket 081 676 9411.

Make each night unique! Enjoy our themed dinners with the cool sea breeze. World of Curries @790 THB++, Thai & International Buffet @790 THB++, Seafood Night @980 THB++, Ribs, Wings & Rings @770 THB++, Butchers Night @market price, Surf & Turf @950 THB++,Thai Seafood Gala @980 THB++.

The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. For reservations, email rimtalay@amari.com or call 076 340106-14 #8027

La Gritta’s Discovery Menu Take your taste buds on a culinary tour through some of the finest Italian flavours. Chef Patrizia has created a six-course discovery menu consisting of the appetiser, main course and dessert, priced at 1,590 THB++ per person. The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations, lagritta@ amari.com, 076 292 697.

DAILY EVENT UPDATES ON

26 TIME OUT

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. What number can you dial, besides 112, to call the police in France?

2. Which popular pet belongs to the biological family felidae?

3. In which English county would you find the villages of Shitterton, Scratchy Bottom and Happy Snoring?

4. What is the capital city of Myanmar?

5. Which group sang ‘A Whiter Shade of Pale’?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

Across 1. Batiking need 4. Carangid fish 8. German cathedral city 14. Marker 15. Kachina doll makers 16. Swimming briefs 17. Old ___ 20. Old-fashioned music hall 21. Mountaineer’s tool 22. Sloughs 23. Pervasive quality 24. Actress Samantha 29. San Joaquin Valley city 31. Code of the samurai 33. Simpletons 36. Kuwaiti, e.g.

37. Phrase from Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” 42. Study, say 43. Protect, in a way 44. ___ the Wise (king of Castile) 46. Clear 51. Palpitate 52. Way off the highway 55. Bickerer in the

“Iliad” 56. Pipsqueak 58. ___ bar 59. “The Twelve Days of Christmas” gift 64. Kidnap victim 65. Kashmir clan 66. Mania starter 67. Social insects 68. Flimsy 69. One in 100: abbr. .

Down 1. Become extinct 2. Over there 3. Columnist Robinson 4. Kicker’s target 5. Lettuce 6. Sap sucker 7. “___ Duck” (1976 hit) 8. In the Red? 9. High points 10. Education acronym 11. Common contraction 12. Old name for Tokyo 13. Yuletide beverage 18. Casualty 19. Soothing brew

23. Lots 25. City in western Libya 26. ___ cheque 27. Rodin sculpture at the Met 28. Bench wear 30. Not a thing 32. Depletes 34. Inattentive one 35. Mythical beast 37. Mideast hot spot 38. Medicinal balsam 39. Crash site?

40. Frenziedly 41. Boy toy?

45. State-of-the-art 47. Literally, “king” 48. Conical tents 49. ___ bellowsfish 50. Relegate 53. Concerning 54. Flying mimic?

57. New newts 58. Compared to 59. Café alternative 60. Bottom line?

61. Hit head-on 62. “___ pales in Heaven the morning star”: Lowell 63. Special effects

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) 17; 2); Cats; 3) Dorset; 4) Naypyidaw; 5) Procol Harum

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

February 10, 1258 Baghdad falls to the Mongols, and the Abbasid Caliphate is destroyed.

1

February 11, 660 BC Traditional date for the foundation of Japan by Emperor Jimmu.

of five meals eaten by the average American is eaten in their cars.

6

February 12, 1994 Fou r men break into the National Gallery of Norway and steal Edvard M u n c h’s iconic painting The Scream. and leave a note behind saying, “Thanks for the poor security”.

(The painting was recovered and four suspects arrested by police in a sting operation in May that year.)

minutes is how long men can listen to their girlfriends or spouses, says a recent survey.

43

per cent of US dog owners always or frequently allow their dog to follow them into the bathroom while they’re using it.

45

February 13, 2008 Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd makes a historic apology to the Indigenous Australians and the Stolen Generations.

per cent of single seniors are open to having “friends with benefits,” and 27% are open to one-night stands, according to a new survey.

February 14, 1779 James Cook is killed by Native Hawaiians near Kealakekua on the Island of Hawaii.

540 million

-year-old, bag-like sea organism without an anus Saccorhytus coronaries is the oldest known prehistoric ancestor of humans.

Source: Uberfacts

This week in history

February 15, 2013 A meteor explodes over Russia, injuring 1,500 people as a shock wave blows out windows and rocks buildings.

Classic cloudy Naiharn sunset. Photo by Joe Boobyer Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket?

Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

February 16, 1923 Howard Carter unseals the burial chamber of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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Jobs

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Trades & Services

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ADVERTISING SERVICES

CLEANING SERVICES

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

EDUCATION

FISHING SERVICE

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

IMMIGRATION SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

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MOVING SERVICES

OTHER

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

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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

Secure, Clean & Cost Effective Self Storage Jungceylon Shopping Center, Patong, Phuket

TRAINING

HOME DECORATION

ADVERTISE HERE

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Buy&Sell

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LOST & FOUND Missing Person

Martin Perter Ingram (son of Roy Percival Ingram). Last known of in Thailand in 2010. Any person with knowledge of the current whereabouts of Mr Ingram is request to contact Title Research in the UK (info@titleresearch. com) or our local agent Spectrum Asia (02 626 0250).

ACTIVITIES, GROUPS Sign up today for a discount code

The new website for Tiya’s hammocks is ready! Visit now at: native-habitat.com and subscribe for a discount code to use for online shopping. Tiya: hammockphuket@yahoo.com, 076 631 841.

BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE 3-engine speedboat for sale

3-engine speedboat, Length 13.5m., width 3.4m. Capacity 45 pax + 3 crew. Front seats. Good condition. Inc 3 Honda engines. 1800000, Vladimir, 084 182 8685.

Long Tail Boat For Sale

Ready to go “Long Tail Boat” with or Without Captain (Thai) Get special price, please call 085 781 9167 (English) Bangtao Beach, Phuket, B275,000, giorgionaef@aol.com, 085 781 9167.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

MEMBERSHIPS

Life Time Family Membership Looking for investor / partner Boating deal of the year: Blue Canyon: 750,000 THB includes 140,000 transfer fee.

Looking for investor / partnership for Patong beach front 7.5m baht (reduced Loch Palms: 425,000 THB includes 72,000 transfer fee. location to start with Japanese and Indian restaurant. from 10m baht)

Due to serious health reasons, the owner must part with his beloved 80’ tour boat. New wiring throughout, power outlets, transformer and voltage meters. New upholstery throughout bar and entertainment area. Engines & generator fully reconditioned & serviced. All maintained to European standards. Ideal boat for quality day trip business. beachsando1@gmail.com, 080 695 3933.

Steel boat for sale

32 metre steel boat for sale. Built 2012, 2 x Cummings engines, 10hrs work only. International REG. Excellent for live-aboard or ferry. Price 6MB. Contact: call Joe 087 8918912 or email joe@similan-divers.com.

Narin, narinpga@gmail.com, 081 826 9390.

CAR FOR SALE Nissan Juke 2014

Sporty, compact car, one lady owner.

1.6 with 3 drive modes, sport, normal or eco. Keyless push button start, rear view camera, leather interior in red and black. Bluetooth and wifi capable stereo with hands free. Serviced by Nissan. THB600,000 or near offer.

Call 081 270 2180 (ENG).

Convertible

Mercedes CLK 200 Cabriolet W-209 Brabus Package - seat 4. Excellent condition and fun to drive. 37,400km.

1,199,000 Bht. Eng - Thai 094 695 3536 / 063 992 3226.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Beauty Salon with Equipment

For Sale, Nai Harn Beauty Salon with Equipment & lease, B290,000. Salon Equipment replacement cost is more than B300,000. All equipment shown as new. Must view to see excellent opportunity to purchase Salon for extremely good price in prime location. Call Nok for details 098 017 8818.

Restaurant set up for sale

Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G VVTI

2013 - 35,000km - Automatic White - CD Radio, Air-con, Alloys Excellent Condition, Only used for school runs. 525,000, Duang, Royal Phuket Marina, gavinmullins@hotmail. com, 083 093 9724. s al

e

Honda Jazz 2009 1500cc

A fully equipped restaurant in the highly rgent Auto sought after Boat Avenue mall in Laguna. U 57,000km.

One owner since new.

Stainless steel kitchen, Wi-Fi, bar counter, Regularly serviced

by Honda. Tax and service area. Ready to go in days. Email: Insurance until the end of June and available now at right jukeboxphuket@gmail.com, 081 090 1608. offer. Reduced by 40,000 bht, REDUCED to 330,000bht o.n.o, Andy +66846909144, andysmalster@gmail.com Price reduced for quick sale

No, not a bar or guesthouse, but a manufacturing business for wooden window blinds.

All the machinery and inventory of parts to be up and running in a matter of days. A very successful business in Phuket for over eight years. Price reduced to 2 mil Baht. Owner will partially finance. lamsden@phuketemail.com, 081 487 4812. @thephuketnews

MEMBERSHIPS

Loch Palm Golf Membership

Lifetime Loch Palm Golf membership for sale. ฿485,000, the Loch Palm transfer fee of ฿72,000 will be shared equally between the buyer and seller. Contact J. Trenton Early, jtrenton.early@gmail.com

Tanita, 094 695 3536 / 063 992 3226.

MOVING SERVICES Looking for Moving Company?

With over 15 years of experience Bigmove Phuket is the number 1 provider of moving and shipping in and out of Phuket Thailand. We provide storage in a state of the art clean, secure, storage facility located centrally in Phuket. www.bigmovephuket.com, 081 797 5377.

PETS, BOARDING A pure breed, male Doberman

A pure breed, male Doberman, 4 1/2 years old, from Germany imported parents from a German breeder ( NO backyard dog breeder!!! ) is, due serious medical condition of its owner, available for free. The new owner must have space and time for this highly intelligent dog.

If you never had a dog before, this is not a dog for you.

Serious interested people call: 084 713 3707.

REAL ESTATE SERVICES Phuket real estate tour

Real estate investment tours are specially designed to help you to achieve your investment goals with the right property in the right location. You will get advice on the multitude of lucrative investment opportunities in Phuket. md@ tourasian.com, 080 826 4665.

WEBSITES, IT For Sale: hoteldealsphuket.com

PHD has 125,000 pages indexed in Google and an average of 22,000 page views per month! See stats image. Also see the selling points on the link below. Quick sale: 33.000B!, Mark, mr.m.hopkins@gmail.com

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PROPERTY FOR SALE Condominium for sale

Freehold 32.5 Sq.M. Studio type.

Price 3.6MB. Swimming pool on roof. Absolute Bangla Suites. Bruno, brunomeier1945@hotmail.com

Property for sale

Large building near airport and sea view land near Bang Pae Waterfall for sale or lease. Any reasonable offers accepted. Lana, Lana.phuket@gmail.com, 080 271 6484.

Land near By Pass road

4 Rai 3 Ngan 45.1 Sq.wah (1,945.10 Sq.wah)near Bypass Rd., easy to go to the downtown or Airport. On the main road, suitable for developments such as Townhome, Hotel ect. Sarinthorn, phuket@plus.co.th, 076 681 188 or 084 555 3178.

House for sale

Private pool villa with lovely garden half a rai. Quite and safe area. 3 bedroom 2 bathroom open kitchen. 160 m2 Situated in Ban Pahra. 12 minutes to PIA, Phuket Airport, Nay Yang beach, and Blue Canyon Golf course. 2 min to Mission Hill Golf course. 7.5 million baht, bergsstigen@telia.com, 090 701 4204.

Penthouse for quick sale

265 sqm, sea and mountain view in Kamala. Foreign freehold. Reduced to 9.9mn, fully furnished!! info@ sunny-property.com , 083 105 2707.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Foreign freehold corner unit

76 sqm, sea and mountain view in Patong Tower, Patong. Reduced to 8.8mn.

Special deal with car, info@sunnyproperty.com, 083 105 2707.

Condominium for sale

Foreign Freehold 150 SQM Huge Ground Floor 2 Bed, 2 Bath condo. 150m to Nai Harn Beach. 7.7M THB. Owner, paulover@hotmail.com, 089 875 4173.

House for sale

Rawai Samki 3 with Chonote. 2 Bed, 2 Bath, big living room, 1 storage, 1 laundry. House 160 sqm, land 280 sqm. 3MB. rico9963@hotmail.com, 083 640 9041.

House for sale

Good location in Chalong area. 3 Bedroom 2 Bathroom, 200 sqm.

House on 800 sqm plot. Including furniture, 084 745 5546.

PoolVilla Mission Heights

villa with salt pool, 330qm 3bed 3.5 bath, 900qm chanote, owner finance, near mission hill golf 2km.

6km PIA, 8km airport 087 060 8400.

16.900.000. picharly@gmail.com

New Sea View Villa

Premium villa 8B in the prestiques Sunrise Ocean Villas development is now for sale.

Being built on the highest point in the estate, only 80 meter from the ocean and located 3 mins away from Grand Ao Po Marina, 10 mins from golf course, 20 mins from the airport, shopping centers, schools and hospitals, this villa is a perfect place to live with no traffic, no polution and no mass tourism.

Over 600 Sqm usable building area, 3 bedrooms, guest apartment, maid quater, games room, 10 metre infinity swimming pool, roof terrace and breath taking views. Can be ready to move in within 8 weeks and still can be customized to the wishes of new owner. For sale at only 27.9 mill baht.

For viewing or more information please contact our sales director, Khun Montha on: 081 343 0777 or email: montha_phuket@yahoo.com

Beautiful Land in Rawai For Sale

Beautiful mountain view with option of sea view land of 742m2 for sale in Rawai with chanote title. For more information contact 085 790 2021.

Kay McDonnell

I have a number of FIRE SALE PROPERTIES from 1.5 MTB to 47MTB. Condos/Houses/Villas Please contact me if you are looking for bargains in the south of the island.080 124 1245, kay@pare.com

COMMUNITY

Apartment

1.65mill. 60qm 2bed 2bath + 30qm balcony, liv-kitchen, 3 a/c, quality doors/wind., Dream Village near mission hill golf, tel: 087 383 8709.

HERE IS THE FUTURE. 17 RAI FOR SALE

Between Kok Loi and Thai Muang, 38 km from the airport, we are selling a beautiful peice of land with 2 new houses. A perfect place for artists or a sport resort.

The land is more than 17 Rai, full of old trees, with a big private lake and located directly behind the river. Chanote title. With a canoe it takes 20 min to paddle to the sea.

A great opportunity for a fair price. Price 9.5M, Yupin, residler@gmail.com, 081 817 4805 Thai, Eng, Deutsch. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 33

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Buy&Sell

PROPERTY FOR SALE Land for sale in Saku - Phuket

1 to 5 Rai. Chanote. 10 min south to the airport. Nice quiet location near Naiyang - Naithon Beach. Fixed price only 2.6Mil Baht per Rai. Kanchana, kanchanajit09@gmail.com, 087 076 6016.

X2 Vibe Phuket Bangtao

Welcoming investor with high yield return 21%. X2 is a privately owned chain of design hotel based out of Thailand 4.59 m. Hot deal Pro, Full Fur, Irene, 139 Soi Cherngtalay 16, Srisoonthron Rd., Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket, sales@oceanstone phuket.com, 095 037 8150.

Apartment Country Golf Club House

One room with kitchen in main house Country Club. 6th floor with balcony 75sqm. Membership in Country Club included. Price 3.3 Million THB. Contact pzw@gmx.at Per Dompert, 086 043 4315 (English and German)

Outstanding Beach Front Pool Villa

A rare opportunity to purchase a 4 bedroom beachfront villa in a 5* resort at The Village Coconut Island.

A “snip” at 22m THB. Contact email aadmo@btinternet. com, Somjit, aadmo@btinternet.com, 081 9791945.

Prime Land near Natai Beach

13 Rai. Prime flat land, Full Chanote. 5 mins to beautiful Natai Beach, 5 mins to Khok Kloi, 20 mins from Phuket Airport. Close to temples, beach & mountain views, perfect for large property or subdivide for development.

B13,500,000, Antoine (Thai & English), 081 979 9307, dannyred@hotmail.com

House for Sale

3 bed, 2 bath, living/dining, Farang & Thai kitchens. Back/both sides under cover. Water fall/relax area.

BBQ area under cover/car port. 4 aircons/7 fans. Very private, close to all services, 500 meters from Heroines Monument. 4.9 mil. o.n.o. Contact Randy. Email randyalltime@gmail.com

LAND NEAR WATERFALL FOR SALE

Beautiful, gently sloping land for sale near Bang Pae waterfall. Good road, 3-phase power. NS3 paper (upgrade applied for). 7 rai, B4m/rai. 087 884 9964 (En) or 087 272 5594 (Th). alasdair.phuket@gmail.com

Ten Room Villa for sale

With 5 Rai land. 5 sleeping rooms, 5 bathrooms, 5 balcony, 2 kitchens, big living room, play room, lobby, car port. Hillside Maikhao Beach sunset seaview. Asking price 24 MB. julius_schuster2001@ yahoo.de, 087 267 1192. @thephuketnews

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/thephuketnews

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @thephuketnews

PROPERTY FOR SALE House for Sale

House at Land and House for sale. 2-storey with 3 bedrooms, living room, kitchen, balcony, jacuzzi, library, laundry. Near to kid playground, two swimming pools, sauna, gym. Enough land to build a second house on the same plot. Ekaterina Oseledets, 095 861 7571.

Land For Sale

Land for sale. Anuphas Golf Ville, Kathu. 81 sq wah. Golf course view of Phuket CC. Quiet village, convenient location. E-mail for details Contact David, d1jarvis@hotmail.com

PROPERTY FOR RENT House for rent.

Nr Wat Chalong

3 Bed/4 baths house in quiet estate.

Available from April 1st to Oct 31st. email me or phone me, Paul, for photos and full details. 25,000 pcm, PAUL WHITTALL, Phuket Private Lagoon, Chao Faa West Road, Chalong, pwhittall@aol.com, 093 793 4258.

Karon Beach House for rent

96 sqm. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 40 sqm. living room. Only long lease.

18,000, Narumon, naruchai@gmx.de, 082 576 6162.

PRIME LAND+BLDG @CHALONG PIER

Seaview Building with land 50m to Chalong Pier for Rent/Long Term Lease.

1.5Rai+bldg. Ideal for Hotel, Community Mall, Restaurants Wirote, 081 931 5189.

House For sale or rent Baan Manik (Cherngtalay)

Attractive 3 bed, 2 bathroom detached house for sale or rent. Set in quiet surroundings but with easy access to Laguna, Boat avenue, PIA, airport, Surin, Bangtao and Layan beaches. The property boasts many additional features including, Auto-gate, Western styled kitchen, security system, natural stone floors, imported ceiling fans, 12volt LED Garden Lighting and air-con throughout.

Asking 4.5 Million Negotiable Rent 25K Per Month Fully furnished or 20K per month unfurnished. 081 9686 051.

CHALONG BEACH FRONT LAND

Beach Front 40m. Long and short term. 1 and half rai(600sq.m.) Mr. Narin, narinpga@gmail.com, 081 826 9390.

Family Pool Villa Rawai

4 Bedroom 4 bathroom 5,000 Baht per night/3 bedroom 3 bathroom 4,000 Baht per night. Quality Furnishings. Contact: rawaihillvillasphuket @gmail.com or 091 654 6249.

PROPERTY FOR RENT Vassana Residence. Rawai

Fully furnished 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom. WiFi and cable TV included in price. 160M.S. in size. Jacuzzi in each Apartments. BBQ area on the roof. Contact vassana.residence@gmail.com Art, Rawai / NaiHarn, Eng.087 882 9604.

Kata Western Apartment

1 and 2 115M2 furnished apartments, full kitchen, huge covered terraces, mountain and seaview.

1 month minimum, 1 year lease starting 20,000/month. gordy240@hotmail.com, 084 840 1262.

Office/Shop for Rent

Ground Floor space with excellent positioning on Chalong Pier Road.

For more information, please call 081 416 4177 or 076 381 341.

Two condos for sale/rent

2 condos for sale 48 sqm. - sale price $60,000 (developer’s price $116,000) & 54,5 sqm. - sale price $70,000 (developer’s price $128,000). Fully furnished, near Central, Big C, BIS, Lotus, hospitals, schools. Communal pool and gym. Short & long time rent available 48 sqm. – THB 10000-15000 per month; 54,5 sqm. – THB 15000-20000 per month + electricity&water, Ekaterina Oseledets, 095 861 7571.

ROOM FOR RENT

Room for rent in attractive house Baan Manik (not far from Anthem wakeboard park). Convenient location for access to Laguna, Boat avenue, Airport and PIA. House is equipped with, Air-con, Internet, Expat-TV, foreign kitchen, washing machine, fridge ect ect. 8000 Baht PCM + Share of Bills. Please email bluebeyond@me.com or call 081 968 6051 for a viewing.

Kamala Villa for rent

5 Bedrooms Villa available for long term, normally 10,000 Baht Nightly price Long lease 70,000 Baht monthly for 1 year minimum, Include pool, garden, courtyard maintenance. Suitable for large or two families. Wanphen, kamalagym2@gmail. com, 080 697 7729.

Villas & Apts Rent-Chalong

2- and 3-bedroom pool villas, 2-bedroom townhouses & studio apartments. Special prices from 700/night or 8,000/month. Rates include WiFi, maid service, cable TV, furnishings. Great location near Big Buddha. info@chalongapartment.com, 086 282 6221, www.chalongapartment.com

34 PROPERTY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY,FEBRUARY 10, 2017

R e Pr duc ic ed e

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

LAKEFRONT VILLA IN GREAT CONDITION, Laguna 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 490 sqm

35,000,000 THB

Situated on a lakefront corner plot of 1200 sqm, this classic Laguna has recently undergone full cosmetic repair. Terrific location near Boat Avenue and the Bang Tao Bay. Must-See property!

FREEHOLD 3-BED DUPLEX, Bang Tao 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 232.8 sqm

9,800,000 THB

Unique opportunity to own a townhouse style condominium under a freehold title. Great location by between main shopping amenities and Bang Tao Beach

WELL MAINTAINED POOL VILLA, Nai Harn 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 210 sqm

Well-appointed villa in a gated community. Ideal location near shops and restaurants and a 5 minute drive from Nai Harn Beach. Good potential for a high rental return.

7,400,000 THB

IMPRESSIVE SEA VIEW APARTMENT, Ao Po 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 110 sqm

Situated in a quiet 32 apartment complex. Large terrace with a spectacular sea view with surrounding islands as a calming backdrop. Well-managed estate.

7,500,000 THB

with the new Catch Beach Club a few minutes away.

5 BEDROOM POOL VILLA WITH VAST MOUNTAIN VIEW, Rawai 5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 800 sqm

15,499,000 THB

A 3- story villa with spectacular panoramic view that will give you 800 sqm of generous space amongst lush vegetation.

SPACIOUS PANORAMIC SEA VIEW CONDOMINIUM, Kalim 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 129 sqm

A stunning and modern 2 bedroom condo overlooking Kalim Bay with easy commute to Patong and Kamala. Great onsite facilities, including a restaurant and shuttle bus

10,000,000 THB

services.

LUXURY 3 BEDROOM VILLA WITH DIRECT BEACH ACCESS Bang Tao 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 167 sqm

14,000,000 THB

A luxury beach front estate set around a 20 meter private swimming pool and a large patio with garden view. Also conveniently located near international restaurants and a 5 minute drive to Laem Singh and Surin Beach.

STUNNING VILLA SURROUNDED BY LUSH PLANTATION, Kamala 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 750 sqm

This exquisite 6 bedroom pool villa with large indoor and outdoor living spaces even features a games room. Located in a peaceful neighbourhood with easy access to

15,000,000 THB

local eateries and shops.

thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

PROPERTY 35

Call us today to schedule a viewing or visit Thailand’s leading online marketplace to seach 1000’s of properties in Phuket and all other major locations across Thailand - go to FazWaz.com

WELL PRICED MOUNTAIN VIEW APARTMENT, Kamala 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 210 sqm

7,000,000 THB

With stylish interior and large outdoor space, this leasehold condo is nestled on a hill surrounded by greenery. Less than 5 minutes to the shops and restau-

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 117 sqm

This leasehold 2-bedroom offers a spacious terrace, open and bright. The colonial style development is very well maintained with lots of greenery, swimming

6,500,000 THB

pool, kid’s pool and outdoor seating areas. Must-see development.

B e in st Su Va rin lue

rants of Kamala and 15 minutes to Patong.

LEASEHOLD LAKE VIEW CONDO, LAYAN

2 BEDROOM CONDO 500 METERS FROM THE BEACH, Karon 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 112 sqm

12,500,000 THB

Situated hillside in Karon with beautiful sunset views across the beach. Good common area facilities. Serviced apartments in well managed estate

FREEHOLD STUDIO WITH SEA VIEW, Patong Studio, 1 bathroom, 38.4 sqm

3,900,000 THB

Located in Patong with it’s a wide array of local and international eateries.

Stunning view over the city and ocean. Excellent common areas facilities.

AFFORDABLE POOL VILLA, Kamala

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 170 sqm

4,995,000 THB

@thephuketnews

This property is exceptionally well priced, located in a desirable location with easy access to shops, restaurants and other amenities, quietly situated in a gated community,

FREEHOLD CONDO, Surin Studio, 1 bathroom, 27 sqm

Priced nearly 35 % lower than other units, a motivated seller has 4 units on offer in this newly completed development. Beautiful communal rooftop with gym and views over Bang Tao.

2,700,000 THB

FREEHOLD VILLA OVERLOOKING PATONG, Patong 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 485.2sqm

A well secluded prime piece of property situated on the hillside overlooking Patong. Less than 5 minutes to the shops and restaurants of Patong.

14,499,000 THB

FREEHOLD CONDO 800M FROM KAMALA BEACH, Kamala 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 99.9 sqm

Refurbished 2-bedroom apartment in walking distance to the beach.

Corner unit maximizing privacy. Good common area facilities with 2 common pools and 2 fitness rooms.

4,900,000 THB

36 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

T20 cricket returns to ACG

League newcomers PCG stun title holders in season opener CRICKET Mark Whetton

L

ast Sunday Feb (5) saw cricket return to the Alan Cooke Ground (ACG) with the start of the C&C Marine 2017 T20 cricket season. The first match was between last year’s winners, Patong Cricket Club (PCC) and a newly formed Phuket Cricket Group (PCG) side.

Patong skipper S Raju won the toss and elected to bat first.

Raju was joined at the crease by S Hamilton to open the innings but was soon back in the pavilion without troubling the scorers. Hamilton decided to run, and then stop, then start again, only to stop again leaving his batting partner stranded half way down the pitch.

A slick bit of fielding from Y Mizra in the covers saw the bails whipped off with Raju well short.

Hamilton was then joined at the crease by S Gaur but he was out in the next over when M Sadarangani trapped him LBW for just three runs.

So a good start for the newly formed PCG side who had last year’s champions seven for two after just two overs.

However, PCG’s celebrations were short-lived as P Morton joined Hamilton to put together a f lowing 56 run partnership from just 36 balls. Hamilton, however, was

Stumped: Patong Cricket Club’s batsman, Hico McDonald, lashes out and loses his bat, and unfortunetly his wicket too. Photo, Michael Way eventually bowled for 32 by I Mushtaq in an 11 ball over that contained five wides.

Morton fell soon after when he too was bowled by Mushtaq’s brother Waseem when a glorious ball snuck through his defences to send his leg stump cartwheeling.

Waseem’s aim was even better the next ball as this time the middle stump went flying to send A Simmons back to the changing rooms for a golden duck. At the 10th over drinks break, Patong were sitting on 78 runs for five valuable wickets.

After drinks A Van Blerk and H McDonald took the team forward. McDonald played some nice stroke play. Van Blerk also assisted by keeping the strike rotating before being caught on 18 in the outfield

by Waseem off the bowling

of Sadarangani.

Two r uns later Mizra picked up the valuable wicket of N Quail for a duck by LBW in the 16th over with Patong on 120 with seven wickets down.

McDonald tried to pick up the run rate in the last few overs but was clean bowled by Mushtaq while on 36 from 29 balls. The remaining batsmen kept the runs ticking over until the end of the 20th over to give Patong a respectable score of 144.

PCG got off to a mixed start to chase down 145 runs for a win with Mushtaq finding the middle of the bat often finding the boundary fence with relative ease. But fellow opener R Bentley was clean bowled by S Bhattacharya after hitting a nice boundary of his own to find the side on 27 for one after three overs.

Mushtaq was joined by Sadarangani at the crease and between them they put on a 72 run partnership to put PCG on 99 runs at the end of the 14th over.

Mushtaq eventually fell after being caught on the boundary by McDonald on 62 from 54 balls consisting of six fours and one six. He was awarded the Man of the Match for his efforts.

Waseem fell shortly after also being caught on the boundary by Simmons which had the PCG side wobbling a little.

At the end of the 15th over PCG were 109 for three wickets, but the more important equation was the requirement to make the remaining 36 runs from 30 balls for the win.

A couple of big overs were needed to get the PCG lads

back in front, and a couple of big overs came with the assistance of M Rehman’s bat. Rehman took to the 17th over which was bowled by McDonald to reach the boundary in three consecutive balls to take 13 runs off the over.

Raju bowled the 18th over which also went for an expensive nine runs, but McDonald’s next over went for a meagre five.

So with the last over to be bowled, PCG needed just four runs for a win.

Captain Raju decided to take the ball to bowl it and when the first delivery was a dot ball, the tension in the clubhouse was rising.

Rehman was facing and was trying to smack the ball out of Phuket when singles and the odd two runs would suffice. The very next ball, however, he did connect and smacked it straight down the ground to the long off boundary region.

Birthday boy Hamilton

was under it but the crowd weren’t sure if it was going to land in his hands or over the boundary for a match winning six runs. PCG spirits dropped when Hamilton took a brilliant catch right on the boundary, but in his effort to keep his balance, Hamilton stepped over the rope to change an “Out” to a “Six”. PCG won by seven wickets to take two points in the competition.

This Sunday (Feb 12) sees the second match of the competition take place between the Island Cricket Club and another new side to Phuket, the ACG team. Start time will be 11am.

For further information about cricket on Phuket, visit the Phuket Cricket Group (PCG) web-site at www.phuketcricket. com or e-mail the PCG committee at phuketcricketgroup@ gmail.com. New players are always welcome & would be well received by the current teams on the island.

Week 2 Under 7s Team

P

W

D

L

F

A

GD PTS

1

Dragon Juniors

4

4

0

0

20

2

18

12

2

M’Den

4

3

0

1

14

3

11

9

3

Lui Juniors

4

2

0

2

6

10

-4

6

4

Blue Stars

4

1

0

3

3

14

-11

3

5

Blue Diamonds

4

0

0

4

2

16

-14

0

Team

P

W

D

L

F

A

GD PTS

1

M’Den

4

4

0

0

9

1

8

12

2

Plaifon F.C.

4

2

1

1

6

3

3

7

3

Cherngtalay F.C.

4

2

0

2

5

4

1

6

4

Blue Diamonds

4

0

2

2

0

4

-4

2

5

Blue Stars

4

0

1

3

0

7

-7

1

GD PTS

Under 9s

Under 11s Team

P

W

D

L

F

A

1

Blue Stars

4

4

0

0

10

5

5

12

2

Blue Diamonds

4

2

1

1

9

6

3

7

3

M.J. Academy

4

2

1

1

8

6

2

7

4

Cherngtalay F.C.

4

1

0

3

5

7

-2

3

5

Seven Kanya F.C.

4

0

0

4

2

10

-8

0

Team

P

W

D

L

F

A

GD PTS

1

Dragon Juniors

3

3

0

0

5

0

5

9

2

Blue Diamonds

4

3

0

1

11

7

4

9

3

Karon F.C. Watsuwan Kiriwong School Blue Stars

3

2

0

1

8

1

7

6

2

0

0

2

0

4

-4

0

4

0

0

4

4

16

-12

0

Team

P

W

D

L

F

A

GD PTS

1

Dragon Juniors

4

3

1

0

4

1

3

10

2

Blue Diamonds

4

3

0

1

5

1

4

9

3

Karon F.C. Watsuwan Kiriwong School Blue Stars

4

1

2

1

4

3

1

5

4

0

2

2

2

4

-2

2

4

0

1

3

3

9

-6

1

Under 13s

4 5

Under 15s

4 5

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

SPORT 37

1Bar untouchable in PPL

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS

POOL PATONG POOL LEAGUE (PPL) leaders 1Bar last Thursday (Feb 2) proved once again that even without Goh they are still the team to beat after walking away with a 9-2 home win against their closest rivals Ting Tong Bar. The big win means 1Bar have now extended their lead over Ting Tong Bar to some 13 points. With the form they are in, 1Bar are pretty much untouchable when it comes to another team claiming the PPL title this season.

But Genius Bar kicked up a stink in last week’s action in their home game against Wet Dreams. For undisclosed reasons Wet Dreams were unable to field a full team and had a bar regular jump in to help them out.

This, being against PPL rules, upset Genius Bar and meant Wet Dreams had to forfeit a point. However, despite losing the point, Wet Dreams still walked away with a comfortable 3-7 win.

Elsewhere, Queen of Hearts and Martin Swiss Guesthouse both walked away

Sailfish are usually found in the waters off Phuket in the first and last two-three months of the year.

Gervais from Queen of Hearts Bar. with big wins in their respective games beating Dirty Nellies 9-2 and Green Mango 3-8 respectively.

In last Thursday’s other games, Happy End Bar lost 5-6 at home to Champs Bar, Cool Hand Lukes beat San Sabai Sports Bar 06-05, while Caddyshack (Kathu) had a comfortable 7-4 win at home to Simon and Oils.

League Standings 1Bar

67

Ting Tong

54

Cool Hand Lukes

52

Queen of Hearts

48

Wet Dreams

47

Genius

47

Dirty Nellies

46

Caddyshack

45

Martin Swiss

44

San Sabai

36

Champs Bar

34

Happy End Bar

32

Green Mango

32

12- Simon & oils

31

BISP Tennis players hit high at Krasea TENNIS TH E W EEK EN D OF Jan 25-26 saw five players from BISP competing in the Krasea tennis event in Bangkok.

Birdy, Zach and Ig were all competing in the 8 and Under event; whilst Att and Timofei competed in the 12 and Under event.

Timofei was competing in his first ever ranking event and did well to get through the first round before losing to the No.4 seed.

Att also passed the first round but again the second round was a step too far at this stage.

In the 8 and under event, Zach really troubled the No.3 player in Thailand before losing out 5-3, 4-1 in the second round.

With more competition experience Zach will surely begin to turn these close matches into victories, having six sudden death deuce games. All three players are constantly improving and are expected to do even better in future tournaments.

Highlights of the weekend included seeing both @thephuketnews

BISP Tennis Academy player Ig in action at the Krasea event.

Ig and Birdy from Year 3, become winners, for the first time, in the boys and girls 8 and Under events.

It was very pleasing to see the BISP players showing very good technique and footwork; with many parents from other schools commenting on how good the players are.

Ig was comfor table winner of the girls event playing with real tactical ability above her years and defeated the No.5 ranked girl in Thailand 4-2, 4-1 to claim 1st place.

Birdy keeps improving with every competition and on his way to victory he beat the No.1 ranked player in Thailand 5-3, 4-2 before becoming champion against the No.3 ranked player in Thailand with a 5-3, 4-1 victory. Well done all!

Run: #1619 Saturday

Never a better time for fishing!

FISHING

CAST AWAY Jimmy Stewart info@fishinginphuket.com

A

hoy me Hear ties!

The main topic of conversation at the beginning of the month remained to be the weather, as the “winter” continued to encroach on what should be “summer” leaving much of the South of Thailand under water and conditions at sea – sure flushed the scuppers.

It’s quite common for the local fishermen to be asked “What’s in season?” Which at one time was quite a reasonable question, but now with the massive changes in the weather, whether it be El Niño, global warming or a natural cycle, no one has told the fish, which, quite frankly, are not too bright, in my case, with the odd exception. The one that got away!

For posterity, in case things never change back to normal, “bill fish” Marlin and Sailfish are usually here in the first

and last two-three months of the year along with most of the other “prize” fish such as Wahoo and King Mackerel which tend to arrive and depart about a month or two behind their pointy nosed pals.

While Tuna, long and short fin, (Albacore and Skip Jack) are here intermittently all the year round with their larger cousins, (Yellow Fin. Big Eye and Dog tooth) popping up on occasion, just to confuse the issue.

So my advice, right now, is get out there, for the “weird” weather, in relation to local fishing, has never been better, proving the point that; “It’s an ill wind that blows nobody any good”.

Still with the unusual consequences of climate change, the Fish of the Month prize goes to Ian of Thai 2 On who landed a Yellow Fin Tuna, the first that’s been heard of in these waters for as long as I can remember. This makes a change from congratulating Fish Eagle on their long run of Sailfish targeting which didn’t slow down any, after they ran away with the trophies on the P.I.S.T. competition.

And while we’re on about

the Phuket International Sportsfishing Tournament – sponsored by The Phuket News – it has just been announced that the next chance to compete will be the November 22-25, as I assume it will be a threeday affair as usual, I would also assume the 22nd is the registration date.

For further information please contact Michael Hochgeladen on 081 719 5766.

I was glad to see an end to 2016 but now I would like to add January 17 to that list as the weather and Thailand’s internal affairs continued to unsettle small businesses, as the “quality” tourist market continues to shrink despite all the “positive” propaganda issued by the relevant authorities.

The “powers that be” just can’t hide the fact that their advertising attracted the wrong type of clientele meaning that little or nothing was done for the bread and butter businesses of Phuket while their counterparts in the roads department continued to dig holes in our little corner of paradise.

Tight lines to all.

Jimmy fishinginphuket.com

February 11 Run Start Time: 4pm H are s : Dr. Fing Jek yll, Murkury Location: Cape Yamu Directions: From Heroines Monument go East 4.2 kilometres and then make a U-turn. Go on for 300 metres and then turn left just after the 7-11 (HHH), this road goes to Cape Yamu. After 700m make the left turn (HHH) then carry on another 1.3km and then left again at the T-junction (HHH) and on to Laager by the sea.

Please note: There are goats, chickens and ducks/geese at the local houses near the Laager site so please keep your dogs under control.

Bus Pickup Schedule: P ato ng @ E x p at H o te l : 2:30pm Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 3pm More info: phuket-hhh.com

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

SPORT 39

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Deeney – from jail to Premier League riches FOOTBALL

The overall competition winner receives a two day/one night private fishing charter to Racha Island on board Wahoo Yacht Charters Phuket’s Reel Blue. Total prize value: B180,000 The monthly competition winner for February 2017 will receive a B3,000 voucher to spend at Walkabout Sports Bar in Karon.

EPL PREDICTIONS

AFP editor3@classactmedia.co.th

MONTHLY STANDINGS

W

at ford st r i ker Troy Deeney’s “light bulb” moment came when the cell door slammed and he contemplated a 10-month jail term for affray five years ago, he said.

The 28-year-old, locked up for assaulting a student outside a pub, entered prison with words from his mother ringing in his ears – that it was at times like that she wished he had not been born.

But Deeney rebuilt his life and his career and two years after he was released having served three months, he was appointed Watford captain, a role he retains to this day.

“The light bulb moment for me came when the door closed and my real world had stopped,” Deeney, who lost his father just before the attack which sent him to prison, said.

“It was survival mode after that. People will go ‘right yeah survival mode’ and say that’s a bit drastic but it was that.

“All my feelings and emotions cut off as I said to myself ‘you’ve got to get through this next few months’.

“I didn’t have enough time to sulk or cry and do all the things you would think are natural reactions.

“If my mum died now I’d be a mess. I’d be crying all over the place and drinking loads of beer like everyone else would. I didn’t have that luxury.”

Deeney said incarceration transformed him for

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OVERALL STANDINGS

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Sidwell Guduka 138 The Red Card Gang 138 scottkip 137 carst 135 chook 133

English Premier League 2016 - 2017

Watford’s Troy Deeney celebrating after scoring his second goal during their Premier League match against Aston Villa last season. Photo: Glyn Kirk/AFP the better.

“I always knew I would come out better but it was about how I went about doing it,” said Deeney.

“Part of the course was alcohol dependency which was compulsory if I was to be eligible for a tag (to wear on early release).

‘I got into speaking, I used to be closed and have a lot of anger in me, at the group sessions.

“I still speak to a psychologist. People feel sorry for themselves and think the world owes them something and then you realise it’s not that bad.”

Deeney, now teetotal, was particularly close to the man he called his father, Paul Anthony Burke – his biological father left home early on. He has a tattoo

Date

Time

Match

Stadium

Sun Feb 12

4pm

Sungaipadee FC vs Phuket FC

Maharat Stadium

Sat Feb 25

6pm

Phuket FC vs Yala United

Surakul Stadium

Sat Mar 4

4:15pm

Pattani FC vs Phuket FC

Central Stadium

Sat Mar 18

6pm

Phuket FC vs Chumpon FC

Surakul Stadium

Sun Mar 26

4pm

Satun United vs Phuket FC

Satun OrBorJor Stadium

Sun Apr 2

5pm

Hat Yai FC Vs Phuket FC

Souuthern Lak Muang Stadium

Sun Apr 9

6pm

Phuket FC vs Surat Thani FC

Surakul Stadium

Sun Apr 23

6pm

Phatthalung FC vs Phuket FC

Patthalung OrBorJor Stadium

Sun Apr 30

6pm

Phuket FC vs Sungaipadee FC

Surakul Stadium

Sat May 6

4pm

Yala United vs Phuket FC

Yala Municipality Stadium

Sat May 13

6pm

Phuket FC vs Pattani FC

Surakul Stadium

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which bears Burke’s date of birth and death.

It was to Burke that Deeney’s thoughts turned to when Watford gained automatic promotion to the Premier League in the 2014/15 season.

“I just cried,” admits Deeney. “I remember I found out on the bus that we got promoted as other results went our way – everyone went crazy.”

He added: “I always wanted to be a footballer and always liked the idea of playing in the Premier League. I had played in League One (the third tier) with Walsall, then the Championship.

“My dad and granddad would be so proud. I rang my wife (Stacey and mother of their two children, Myles and Amelia) and said I’m going there to his graveside.

‘However, at six in the evening it was shut so I went out with the team.

“Then the next morning I went with a Thermos of tea to the cemetery and had a cup of tea and sat there talking

to his gravestone.”

Deeney, who has set up his own foundation to help seriously ill children and distributes football kit to youngsters on the tough estate where he once lived in Birmingham, says he has used his prison experience to advise young offenders.

“I would probably stay away from talking in prisons because I had a career going in and I had one going out,” said Deeney, who invited two of the prison guards to the Championship play-off final in 2014 as a way of thanking them for encouraging him to go to the prison gym and keep fit.

“I can’t resonate with a lot of people there as there are a lot who have lived on that same road (crime) and once they are out they go back to doing the same thing.

“Driving out there in a Range Rover probably doesn’t sit well with them,” added Deeney, who nevertheless stays in touch with two of the inmates he considers friends.

Team

MP W

D

L

F

A

GD

Pts

1

Chelsea

24

19

2

3

51

17

34

59

2

Tottenham Hotspur

24

14

8

2

46

16

30

50

3

Manchester City

24

15

4

5

49

29

20

49

4

Arsenal

24

14

5

5

52

28

24

47

5

Liverpool

24

13

7

4

52

30

22

46

6

Manchester United

24

12

9

3

36

21

15

45

7

Everton

24

11

7

6

40

27

13

40

8

West Brom

24

10

6

8

32

29

3

36

9

West Ham United

24

9

4

11

32

41

-9

31

10

Watford

24

8

6

10

29

40

-11

30

11

Stoke City

24

7

8

9

29

36

-7

29

12

Burnley

24

9

2

13

26

35

-9

29

13

Southampton

24

7

6

11

24

31

-7

27

14

Bournemouth

24

7

5

12

35

47

-12

26

15

Middlesbrough

24

4

9

11

19

27

-8

21

16

Leicester City

24

5

6

13

24

41

-17

21

17

Swansea City

24

6

3

15

29

54

-25

21

18

Hull City

24

5

5

14

22

47

-25

20

19

Crystal Palace

24

5

4

15

32

45

-13

19

20

Sunderland

24

5

4

15

24

42

-18

19

Live Sports TV Schedule *Times may be subject to change

SPORT

START STOP

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

Friday February 10 Cricket

10:30

18:30

Test 2 - Hyderabad

India v. Bangladesh, Day 2

Cricket

18:30

00:30

ODI5 - Centurion

South Africa v. Sri Lanka

Saturday February 11 10:30

18:30

Test 2 - Hyderabad

India v. Bangladesh, Day 3

Rugby Union 22:00

Cricket

00:00

Aviva Premiership

Leicester v. Gloucester

Rugby Union

21:30

23:30

Six Nations

Italy v. Ireland

23:50

01:50

Six Nations

Wales v. England

19:30

21:30

EPL

Arsenal v. Hull

22:00

00:00

EPL

Man United v. Watford

00:25

02:20

EPL

Liverpool v. Tottenham

22:00

00:00

EPL

Sunderland v. Southampton

22:00

00:00

EPL

West Ham v. West Bromwich

18:20

02:00

ODI 3 - Johannesburg

South Africa v. Sri Lanka

Soccer

Cricket

Sunday February 12 10:30

18:30

Test 2 - Hyderabad

India v. Bangladesh, Day 4

Rugby Union 20:00

Cricket

22:00

Aviva Premiership

Exeter v. Wasps

Soccer

20:30

22:30

EPL

Burnley v. Chelsea

23:00

01:00

EPL

Swansea v. Leicester

Rugby Union 22:00

00:00

Six Nations

France v. Scotland

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2017

Newscomers stun holders in T20 opener > page 36

MADE IN THAILAND

RPM fund first sailing boat designed for people with disabilities

The SV14 will be a sail boat specifically designed for people with disabilities.

YACHTING The Phuket News editor3@classactmedia.co.th

R

oyal Phuket Marina (RPM) has committed to fully-fund the first SV14 boat in Thailand – a sail boat designed specifically for the needs of people with disabilities.

Part of a global crowdsourcing project, the SV14 will be built by Jomtien based Disabled Sailing Thailand and launched in March 2017.

Inspired by the late His

Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who introduced sailing to the Thai people, RPM wish to grow boating in Thailand and make sailing easily accessible to all.

Speaking about his decision to fund the build of the first SV14 sailing boat in Thailand, Mr Gulu Lalvani, Chairman of Royal Phuket Marina said, “We’re very excited to be working with Disabled Sailing Thailand on what will be the first ever SV14 built. It will be built here in Thailand and the design means the boat can be easily moved around the

country allowing people with disabilities the chance to enjoy sailing – a sport which I love.”

The SV14 project was conceived by marine surveyor Mr Peter Jacops, who upon learning sailing had been dropped from the 2020 Paralympics decided to do something about it.

“While some countries in Asia were offering limited opportunities for disabled sailors, Thailand wasn’t offering anything at all – mainly due to the high price of suitable boats.

I sought help from the global sailing community to design and create a cost-effective and

easy to build boat, and now with the support from Royal Phuket Marina we will be able to launch the first SV14 very soon.”

Designed by Alex Simonis and Marten Voogd of Simonis Voogd Design the SV14 is ideal for both novice and competitive sailing.

“The SV14 provides a platform for beginners as well as anyone who may wish to compete at the Olympic level in the future, and design plans are offered free to anyone who wishes to build one and help sailors with disabilities.

“This is such a great idea, an innovative way to help grow boating for the disabled community in Thailand, and any other country in the world for that matter,” added Mr Lalvani.

As part of their “Grow Boating” initiative which launched last year, RPM is actively promoting boating in Phuket and Thailand.

Working closely with the industry, RPM has developed a monthly networking platform which takes place on the first Friday of every month at The Speakeasy Yacht Club at RPM, and attracts key industry play-

ers from Thailand and the region to share ideas and help to Grow Boating in Thailand.

“Working with Disabled Sailing Thailand to deliver the first SV14 is one of Royal Phuket Marina’s ways to further grow boating in Thailand.

Sailing will help people with disabilities to improve their quality of life and we are very excited to be a part of that,” concluded Mr Lalvani.

For more information, visit www.royalphuketmarina.com or www.disabledsailingthailand.org.

More talent joins the Phuket softball foray SOFTBALL TWO MINUTES SHY OF MIDday last Saturday (Feb 4), the adorable kindergartener Arabella took the microphone at the Alan Cooke Ground (ACG) and yelled out her rallying cry, “Let’s play ball”, for all to hear. The players on the field enthusiastically obliged, and with that, another softball doubleheader began.

It was a banner day for softball in Phuket, as there was an influx of talent into the weekly affair.

Joining the action were Canadian James and Canadian Cameron, not to be confused with famous

Canadian, James Cameron. While the director might not have been there, the grounds were nevertheless graced with the titanic frame and avatar of intimidation, Fijian rugby star Renato Tikoisolomone, who made his softball debut. Alien to softball, his first ever swing sent the ball into the abyss, exploring the deepest reaches of the outfield.

“I’ll be back”, he said afterwards, “as it is with softball that my heart truly lies.”

Also making his debut at the game was Thai national Kanphop Markkongkaew. An import from the Hat Yai softball league, Kanphop played infield and crushed line drives like the seasoned veteran

that he is. There are many talented Thai softball players elsewhere in the country, and it was great to see some of that skill on display here in Phuket.

On a sad note, Saturday saw its second injury in as many weeks.

Whereas the previous week saw Canadian commercial pilot Doug Erskine forced from the game with a hamstring strain, this week it was the Flyin’ Hawaiian Mel Galarneau’s turn to be grounded with an upper leg injury. Never one to be discouraged, Mel traded the Galarneau for Allen and hit the announcer’s booth. She put on an impressive performance, often remembering how many outs there were. Joining

Mel in the booth was first-time player Rory Peter, who had exhausted his supply of breath in the first inning.

For those keeping score at home, like Mel did on the ACG scoreboard, the first game was a 13-1 blowout and the second a more dramatic 6-4.

As with just about everything else in life, there was a strong positive correlation between Canadian presence on a side and winning.

The next game tomorrow (Feb 11) at midday at the ACG. Players are encouraged to show up at 11:30am to warm up and take batting practice.

Everyone is welcome to play and equipment is not needed. It’s B100 per player, all of which goes to the ACG to help maintain the field.

Nick Carter sprints home on a base hit to the outfield during last weekend’s softball doubleheader held at the Alan Cooke Ground in Thalang. Photo: Michael Way For more information, click “like” on the Phuket Softball Facebook page and RSVP at the Event Page for this week’s game. thephuketnews