16-12-2016

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

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Traffic jam at Chalong Underpass site. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot

HIGHWAYS CHIEF CALLS FOR PATIENCE AS CHALONG UNDERPASS CONSTRUCTION BEGINS Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

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xcavation to install the retaining walls for the Chalong Underpass began last Friday (Dec 9), marking the beginning of at least two years of major traffic tailbacks at one of the busiest intersections on the island.

Phuket Highway Department Chief Papiwetwoottisak Sookkii asked drivers to be patient while the

construction continues.

“Remember, the idea of this underpass is to solve the problem of traffic jams at Chalong Circle,” he said.

The construction contract – assigning Civil Engineering Co Ltd a budget of B546 million to complete the underpass – officially began on July 28, 2015, but an oversight saw work on moving the power lines, utility poles and water pipes not beginning until March this year.

The seven-month late start means

that the scheduled completion date of September 14, 2017 is unlikely to be realised.

Tailbacks more than a kilometre long were already evident on the south side of Chalong Circle last weekend.

“This project is the hardest I’ve ever had because of the narrow roads and the volume of traffic,” said Somkiet Yimpong, the Phuket Highways Department engineer tasked with overseeing the project.

“This is more like Bangkok traffic;

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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other areas in Phuket are much easier for a project like this than Chalong Circle,” he added.

Mr Somkiet is already tasked with overseeing the construction of two underpasses in Phuket: the Bang Khu Underpass; and the new underpass at the Thepkrasattri Rd turnoff to the airport.

Mr Somkiet urged motorists to use the designated alternative routes around Chalong Circle, but admitted that this would not alleviate the traffic...

NEWS

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‘Drink, Don’t Drive’ for Xmas

LIFE

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Local bird club let their pets fly free

SPORT

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Our lifeguards score a hat-trick

News 2

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New underpass to add more delays C ONST RUC T ION OF Phuket’s fifth underpass, at the intersection on Thepkrasattri Rd and Route 4026, which leads to Phuket International Airport, began in earnest last Saturday (Dec 10), bringing with it more traffic disruptions along the island’s busiest road.

Staff at Phuket International Airport have asked travellers boarding flights to account for the delays when calculating their travel time to the airport as disruptions to traffic flow at the intersection are expected to last at least months.

A key concern is that the traffic lights at the intersection will be turned off while retaining walls are excavated and put in place, explained Somkiet Yimpong, the Phuket Highways Department engineer tasked with overseeing construction of the underpass.

Traffic heading north and south will be able to drive

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Eviction set for Loma vendors, memorial plans unveiled > page 6

Airport sets out beach safety zone, warnings Yutthawat Lekmak reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

Workers survey the site of the B500 million underpass at the turnoff to Phuket International Airport. through the intersection unimpeded, he said.

“Traffic from Phuket Airport heading toward Phuket Town must first turn left (north) then make a u-turn in order to travel south,” Mr Somkiet explained.

“Traff ic coming from Phang Nga must continue southbound through the intersection then make a u-turn at Bang Khanun Forest so it can head north again and turn left at the intersection to go to the airport,” he added.

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huket International Airport (PIA) has put in place a safety zone and warning system at the end of the runway along Mai Khao Beach to protect a growing number of beachgoers who visit that area to take photographs and videos of landing aircraft.

They have also banned the use of drones from the area.

PIA Director Monrudee Gettuphan told The Phuket News, “We are concerned about the safety of residents and tourists who come to Mai Khao Beach so we have installed speaker systems in four locations along the fence to let people know about the potential danger of this area.

“People need to stay away

Warning signs have been posted at the end of the runway, where people like to take photos of the aircraft landing.

Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub from the restricted zone. We want to prevent any unknown object or material injuring people, or even their hearing being damaged by the noise of the aircraft’s engines.

“The penalty for anyone failing to comply with this regulation includes the death penalty, a life sentence, or a jail term of between five to 20

years, as per the Air Aviation Act 1978,” Ms Monrudee said.

“The warning system we have installed is in three languages – Thai, English and Chinese. We have also asked the Thalang District Chief for additional officials or security volunteers to help advise and warn people that this area is restricted.

“The affected area covers the end of the runway near Mai Khao Beach where many people gather to take photos of aircraft when they land.

Sometimes the planes fly so low and close to the fence it is a high risk area.

“We have placed barb wire along the danger zone to keep people out. People can come to the beach as normal but cannot use the restricted area to take photos or videos,” she added.

Ms Monrudee has asked everyone to follow the instructions in order to provide the highest level of safety for both the public and the aircraft.

“Again, we apologise if this causes any inconvenience,” Ms Monrudee concluded.

Additional reporting by Eakkapop Thongtub

Chalong Underpass tailbacks begin Continued from page 1 ...jams at the site entirely.

Phuket Highways Chief Mr Papiwetwoottisak had worse news – not all the land required for the project has been acquired. “Some of the land is ready for construction, but other parcels are not,” he said.

Mr Somkiet explained, “The expropriated land is a major barrier for this project, and I have no idea when the whole project will be finished if this issue is not resolved.

“The Land Acquisition division of the Department of Highways are working on this now,” he added.

In the meantime, work will continue on the tunnel.

“After the retaining walls are in place, tunnel excavation will begin, with the excavation starting from the Chalong side and continuing to the Rawai side,” Mr Somkiet said.

“I understand how much traffic jams there are. We apologise for this inconve-

nience. Please, be patient for this project. It is made to resolve traffic jams,” Mr Papiwetwoottisak added.

As a New Year’s gift to people driving through the area, Mr Papiwetwoottisak said that plans were afoot to pause construction from Dec 29 to Jan 4.

“We plan to halt construction at all sites in Phuket over the New Year holiday period so we can make as much road space available to motorists as possible,” he said.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Drink, Don’t Drive!

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No charges over parasail plunge Campaign targets reducing road deaths The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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huket is to launch an anti-drink-driving campaign in an attempt to reduce the number of deaths caused by accidents on the roads. The campaign comes after it was recently revealed that there have already been more than 100 deaths on the island’s roads this year.

Phuket Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan announced the campaign at a meeting last Wednesday (Dec 7), when strategies were brainstormed as to how to reduce the number of deaths caused by accidents on Phuket roads to less than 50 deaths per year by end of 2017.

Officials gave the campaign the official title of “P3D Phuket Drink Don’t Drive”.

Dr Wiwat Sitamanod southern region consultant for the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, revealed that the number of accidents resulting in death on the island’s roads numbered 144 from January 1-October 31.

“About 84 per cent of those were males. Around 80% of

The campaign comes after it was revealed that there were 144 deaths on the roads between Jan 1-Oct 31. vehicle accidents involved motorbikes, and around 80% of motorcyclist killed were not wearing a helmet,” he said.

“The main age group involved in fatal accidents was between 21-25 followed by those aged 16-20. Most accidents happened between midnight and 3am, and then between 3am and 6am,” Dr Wiwat said.

“Most of these fatal accidents took place in Phuket Town, while Kamala had the lowest record, two. “The Thai Health Promotion Foundation

believes that by enforcing traffic laws and also promoting road safety is the best way to help reduce the number of deaths on Phuket roads,” he added.

Gov Chockchai stated that in an attempt to reduce road fatalities officials will strictly enforce the law, cultivate traffic discipline among target groups including government officials and big businesses such as hotels and students, and lastly by promoting the P3D: Phuket Drink Don’t Drive campaign.

Police mount horses for tourists’ safety POLICE BEGAN PATROLS on horseback at Surin Beach last week in their latest efforts to keep tourists safe.

Region 8 Police Deputy Commander Lt Gen Chalit Thinthanee said at the launch last Friday (Dec 9) that the need to have mounted police patrolling Phuket beaches came after officials learned that officers patrolling beaches on foot or by patrol car could not cover all area, especially long beaches or places that were hard to get to.

“Surin Beach is the first area in Phuket to have police patrolling on a horseback,” he said.

“We will have mounted police to cover all beaches in the future. Foot patrols at times can be very difficult (sic) and take too long too when responding to an emergency, so we need a better alternative,” he added.

“Now we have mounted police who will respond to any call quickly. This will promote tourism and ensure safety to tourists while they enjoying our beaches.” Gen Chalit said.

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training so they can safely ride and control the horses while patrolling the beach, he added Eakkapop Thongtub

The mounted beach patrols began last Friday (Dec 9).

“After seeing the stats for deaths caused by drunk driving, which is very high, we need to have this Phuket Drink Don’t Drive campaign.

“The most important thing is to have people join this campaign. We may need to have street parade or sound trucks close to Christmas or New Year promoting the campaign to bring accident prevention and accident reduction awareness to the public.

However, we have to discuss further details in a follow-up meeting,” Gov Chockchai said.

POLICE HAVE YET TO conclude their investigation into what caused Australian tourist to fall out of her parasail harness at Patong Beach last week.

Sally-Ann Popovic, 26, fell about five metres and landed in the water below while parasailing at the popular beach on Dec 7.

She suffered an ear injury and a sore neck, but by Fridy (Dec 9) had already been discharged from Patong Hospital, Lt Yingyong Chuykit of the Patong Police said.

“I was told she was released from hospital yesterday evening (Dec 8). She is doing well and is going back to her country tomorrow (Dec 10),” Lt Yingyong said.

“All medical expenses have been paid for by the parasail operator’s insurance company. Both parties discussed the matter and the victim said that she will not file a complaint,” he added.

“We questioned parasail business owner Waewta Srithongkul about the safety of their equipment and inspected the harness in question on the day of the incident.

Sally-Ann Popovic, 26, fell about five metres into the water below while parasailing at Patong Beach. Photo: Patong lifeguards The equipment looked fine, nothing was broken.

“We have yet to conclude what caused her (Ms Popovic) to fall since everything seemed to be intact. It is possible that she slipped out of the harness while she was turning or moving around while in the air,” Lt Yingyong noted.

“Ms Waewta was very sorry for what happened to Ms Popovic,” he added.

“After the incident, she confirmed that she checked all her parasail equipment and insisted that she will have all the equipment checked thoroughly for safety every time before using it to provide parasail flights to the public.”

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

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Which driving licenses can tourists use on the island?

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

QUESTION

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Can foreigners use their license from home here in Phuket? Also, what if my license is already issued in English?

Also, exactly what are the penalties if I am caught driving without a Thai license, and what happens if I am in an accident?

– Tilde Chimbote, Chalong

ANSWER

Foreigners who do not yet have a Thai driver’s license must hold an “International Driving Permit” (IDP) issued in their home country.

No matter which country you hail from, police say that you must have a Thai license, or an International Driving Permit.

Please note that the IDP is technically not a license, it is a translated version of a license issued by a country that signed the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (1968), which replaced the Convention on Road Traffic (1949). Coun-

tries that signed the Convention recognise “any domestic driver’s licence drawn up in their national language or in one of their national languages, or, if not drawn up in such a language, accompanied by a certified translation.”

That means any person wanting to drive in Thailand by using a driver’s license not issued in Thailand – and especially those not issued in English – must have both a valid license issued in their home country and an IDP to legally drive in Thailand.

This applies to foreigners staying in the country longterm and to tourists driving motorbikes or cars rented for their short holiday here.

Having a valid license is critical in case you are involved in an accident.

If you do not have a valid license and an IDP, you can be held fully responsible for any accident you are involved in and any insurance coverage may automatically become

void as you were driving illegally.

– Chutinan Jindachuea, Chief, License Division, Phuket Provincial Transport Office.

If you are stopped by the police and you cannot present a valid license issued in your home country and an IDP so we can check it in English, you will be fined.

The fine is usually between B200 and B500. You can pay the fine on the spot or police can seize your license until you come to the police station and pay the fine, and then get your license back.

– Lt Surapong Phuhgrom, Inspector, Kathu Traffic Police.

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Taxi driver Mr Dusit Somprayoth (2nd left) said that Mr Valluzzi (left) gave him a cash reward but declined to say how much. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub

Taxi driver reunites Italian with B116k PR MANAGER Natchaya (Nat) Sittiprasert 088 765 5881 pr@classactmedia.co.th

AN ITALIAN TOURIST Tuesday (Dec 13) was reunited with his belongings, which included over B100,000 in cash and a passport, after he left them in a taxi.

Francesso Valluzzi, 71, reported to airport security and Sakoo Police that he had lost his bag after being dropped off by taxi at his accommodation in Kamala.

Mr Valluzzi told officials that among the lost items were over 3,000 euros (about B111,000), a notebook computer, camera, passport and B5,000 in Thai currency.

While police were investigating the incident, taxi driver Dusit Somprayoth, 37, came forward with the lost items, which he said had been left in his taxi.

Mr Dusit went to the Kianseng Guesthouse in Nai Thon

Beach and returned the items to Mr Valluzzi.

After checking his bag, Mr Valluzzi confirmed that all his belonging were intact and thanked the police for their help and Mr Dusit for returning his items.

Mr Dusit explained that he picked up Mr Valluzzi at the airport at around 11am and dropped him off at a guesthouse in Nai Thon.

“I did not pay much attention as to whether the tourist had left anything behind after I had dropped him off so I left.

“I only noticed a bag when I got to my home in Rawai so I returned to the guesthouse to bring it to him,” he said.

Mr Dusit said that Mr Valluzzi gave him a cash reward for his honesty but did not reveal how much.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Red tape grinds beach erosion project to a halt The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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ocal government officials have confirmed that the B22.4 million Karon Beach erosion protection project has been put on hold until Karon Municipality get the required permit from the Marine Office.

Borpith Chomchiey, a transport specialist at the Phuket Marine Office confirmed to The Phuket News that his office filed a complaint against the Sahayotasathapat Co Ltd construction company and Karon Municipality at Karon Police Station on Dec 8 in relation to the project.

“We filed a complaint with police after our investigation revealed that Karon Municipality did not get building permission for any structure that will protrude into the water from the Marine Office.”

The investigation came after the Marine Office was notified on November 23 that the project was being constructed on NorSorLor (registered public) land explained Mr Borpith.

“On Dec 5 officials from

Work on the beach has been put on hold until a permit has been granted by the Marine Office. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub our office went to inspect the area and found a 75.30 metre by 60 centimetre wall being built into the beach. The project was approved by a committee set up by Provincial Hall, however, they failed to propose the project to the Marine Office before construction started so we filed the complaint,” he said.

“We held a meeting today (Dec 9) with the vice governor and Karon Municipality has now been ordered to get a permit from the Marine Office

with approval by the Provincial Hall committee.

“They can continue with construction on the land but not on the beach area yet,” Mr Bopith added.

In the complaint filed with police, the Marine Office said that the contract company and Karon Municipality are breaching Sections 117, 118 and 120 of the Navigation in Thai Waters Act of 1913 (revised in 1922).

The penalty for breaching Section 118 is a fine of

Korean dies on honeymoon tour A 33-YEAR-OLD SOUTH Korean tourist died during a snorkelling trip to Koh Hae (Coral Island) on Monday (Dec 12) after ignoring tour guides instructions to wear a lifejacket.

Maj Col Nareuwat Phutwiro, an investigator with the Phuket Tourist Police, was informed at 10:30am that South Korean tourist Jeong Yong Soo, 33, had died during a snorkelling trip to Coral Island.

“Mr Jeong ar rived in Phuket on Dec 10 with his

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Police make their investigation into Mr Jeong’s death at Chalong Pier. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub wife to celebrate their honeymoon, the couple were due to depart from Phuket on Dec

14,” Maj Col Nareuwat said.

“We were told that during the trip to Koh Hae, Mr Jeong wanted to go snorkelling and was advised by the tour guide to wear a lifejacket, which he refused to do. We believe that this played a part in his death,” he said.

Mr Jeong’s body was transferred to Dibuk Hospital after arriving at Chalong Pier.

Maj Col Nareuwat confirmed that the investigation into Mr Jeong’s death is continuing.

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between B500-B10,000 per square metre of structures protruding into the water. The penalty for excavating on land to build a canal is between bout B5,000-B50,000.

The project is aimed at improving the overall landscape of the area and the public utilities at Karon Beach, close to the Nong Harn reservoir. Items included under the project include a walkway, sea wall, car parking, erosion protection blocking (Durahold) and light installation.

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Falcon attacks locals OFFICIALS ARE WARNing people to be aware of a falcon after it attacked four local residents in Kamala on Tuesday (Dec 13).

Local officials were notified by a local Line group which had posted a warning to local residents warning them of a falcon which the group said had attacked villagers near the Bang Wan waterfall in Kamala.

Two people had suffered lacerations to their heads which required five stitches while two others had suffered only minor injuries.

Deputy Chief of the Kamala Administration Office (OrBorTor), Saeree Lapmak, said that it is possible that the falcon had escaped from captivity and that it may have attacked villagers before Tuesday.

“Four people have been hurt by the bird,” he warned, “officials in charge must catch it before it attacks more people. We are afraid that residents may try to shot it if it is not captured soon,” he said.

Nirut Sariya, who posted the message in the Line group, said that he will contact officials from the

Two people required stitches to wounds to they suffered to their heads. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Nature and Wildlife Education Centre at Khao Phra Thaew to help catch the bird.

The Chief of the Nature and Wildlife Education Centre at Khao Phra Thaew, Pongchart Chaeuhom, said that if the falcon is still in the area he wants villagers or local rescue workers to catch it first so that it isn’t given another chance to escape.

“They will need to capture the falcon by using bait and a trap,” Mr Pongchart said.

“However, if we find that this falcon belongs to someone, that person will be brought in to be questioned, they may also face legal action because the bird has already attacked and injured people,” he added.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Loma’s last stand Vendors given deadline as plans unveiled The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

Korean national Lee Hyemi, 38, has been charged for the fatal collision that killed two Russian men early Tuesday Morning (Dec 6). Photo: Darawan Naknakhon

Korean woman faces charges for fatal collision

WICHIT POLICE HAVE confirmed that South Korean national Lee Hyemi, 38, has been charged for the fatal collision that killed two Russian men on Chao Fa West Rd last week.

The two men killed in the accident were riding northbound on a motorbike near the King Power dutyfree store when they collided head-on with a Toyota Vios driven by Ms Lee just before 3am on Dec 6.

“Ms Lee has been cha rged w it h reck less driving causing death,” Lt Khwansirinart Thairat of the Wichit Police told the The Phuket News on Dec 8.

“When police arrived at the scene, Ms Lee’s car was on the right-hand side of the road, but she was heading southbound,” Lt Khwansirinart said.

“We were told she lost

control of her car and it spun out of control from left side to right side of the road, causing it to crash into the motorbike,” she added.

“Ms Lee was tested for alcohol. We expected to receive the results next Tuesday,” Lt Khwansirinart said.

If found guilty, Ms Lee faces up to 10 years in jail or a fine of no more than B200,000, or both, Lt Khwansirinart said, adding that Ms Lee is in the country as a tourist.

The two men killed in the accident have been identified as Evgeny Ostrovskiy, 25, who was driving the motorbike, and his passenger Dmitrii Likhtin, 26.

Both men were identified by a relative and a friend, Lt Khwansirinart said.

Yutthawat Lekmak

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endors at the Loma Food Centre have until April 30 next year to vacate the building so Patong Municipality can begin redeveloping the building into a monument to honour the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

The final date was agreed at a meeting between Patong Mayor Chalermluck Kebsup and the final 17 remaining vendors last Thursday (Dec 8).

Also present at the meeting was Phuket Provincial Chief Administrative Officer (Palad) Poonsak Naksaena, officials from Damrongdhama Centre (Ombudsman’s Office) and Capt Boontop Lanthong from the Office of Phuket Public Prosecution.

“We will turn the building into a new landmark,” Mayor Chalermluck said.

The new building will be in the shape of a “Micro Mod” boat, which is a dinghy that the late King Bhumibol designed and made by hand

himself, she explained.

Vendors may continue to use the building until April 30, Mayor Chalermluck said.

“But they must clear away everything at the end of each day. They cannot leave anything behind,” she said.

After the building is complete, Patong Municipality will find a location for the vendors to set up again, she added.

Of the 17 vendors present at the meeting, 16 agreed and one disagreed with the resolution.

The delayed eviction date brings to a close a long-running dispute between Patong Municipality and vendors at the centre, which is popular among tourist along the Patong beachfront, with many vendors facing eviction one by one since last year for failing to comply with lease coinditions, and some refusing to pay rent.

Late last month, Phuket Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan gave a stay of execution of eviction as vendors pleaded to stay at the Food Centre.

Patong Mayor Chalermluck Kebsup explained that the building will be renovated into a monument honouring the late king Bhumibol Adulyadej. Photo: Patong Municipality

Six arrested for Patong tuk-tuk boss slaying POLICE HAVE CONFIRmed that six people have been arrested so far in connection with the fatal shooting of the President of the Patong TukTuk Club Sakol Srisompotch on Oct 25. However, a seventh person, said to be the shooter, remains at large.

Kathu Police Deputy Chief Investigator Lt Col Amponwat Seangreung told The Phuket News on Tuesday (Dec 13), “Now we are looking for the last suspect in this case who we believe is the shooter. He is Porjet Sukwanlee, 27.

“The most recent arrest was that of Ekkarat Ponprasit, 25, who surrendered at

Forensic Police collect evidence from Mr Sakol’s tuk-tuk on Nov 2. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot Kathu Police Station,” Lt Col Amponwat said, but declined to reveal any further details

about the arrest.

“Everyone arrested in connection with this case

has denied all charges made against them,” he added.

Asked whether a forensic report had been received by his team, Lt Col Amponwat said, “Forensic police collected information on Nov 2. We have received a report from them about the getaway motorbike used in the crime and Mr Sakol’s tuk-tuk, however, we are still awaiting their report of the bullets found at the scene.”

Mr Sakol was shot dead in Kathu on Oct 25 in what police believe is a personal dispute.

Two suspects were initially arrested or their part in the public slaying of Mr Sakol.

Wattana “Dam” Nawa­ keaw, 38, was taken into custody after a warrant for his arrest was issued on Friday (Oct 28).

The second suspect, a 17-year-old who police named only as “Tong”, was arrested at a rental room on Sakdidet Rd on also on Oct 28.

Police then announced they had arrested the man who drove the motorbike used in the slaying of Mr Sakol.

The 28-year-old suspect, who police declined to name, was taken into custody in the northern province of Mae Hong Song after a warrant for his arrest was issued on Oct 31.

Tanyaluk Sakoot thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Mourners depart for Bangkok A CONVOY OF 18 BUSES carrying 750 people to Bangkok to pay their respects to the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej departed the island on Tuesday (Dec 13).

The government-funded buses cleared the Phuket Checkpoint, at the northern tip of the island, at 6am.

“We will take care of expenses, including accommodation, transportation and food, for everyone on this trip,” noted Phuket Vice Governor Snith Sriwihok.

Personal items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, snacks and water, medicines and medical supplies for the trip were provided.

“We also have police officers and public health officials on board with us to take care of everyone,” said V/Gov Snith.

The convoy was one of four convoys to provide free transport to people who would otherwise not be able to fund their own pilgrimage to pay their respects to late King. The next, and final, convoy from Phuket will be on Jan 2, 2017.

Yutthawat Lekmak

His Majesty visits Krabi Bangkok Post editor@classactmedia.co.th

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rabi has gone down in history as the first province that His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun has visited since his accession to the throne on Dec 1.

His Majesty arrived in Krabi last Friday (Dec 9) to preside over a ceremony to unveil a new provincial hall in his first visit since assuming the throne, to the delight of people who spilled onto the streets to greet him.

Local residents in Krabi and nearby provinces including Phuket, Phang Nga and Surat Thani flocked to catch a glimpse of the King.

Welcome signs reading “Long Live the King” were put up across the popular tourist destination, as houses and buildings were adorned with national flags, as well as f lags bearing the royal

insignia of His Majesty the King.

Some people had camped out near the provincial hall on Thursday night (Dec 8) for a better chance of seeing HM The King as hundreds of police, soldiers and officers from the provincial explosive ordnance disposal unit were deployed to maintain security around the area.

Local Thai Muslims wearing traditional dress turned up for the royal visit as wellwishers lined the streets holding photos of His Majesty along the route of the royal motorcade.

Krabi Governor Phinit Boonlert said that officials from the Department of Public Works, Town and Country Planning had built and decorated a royal pavilion where the King would preside over the ceremony to open the new provincial hall.

He also said a musical band of 45 students from Ammat Phanit Nukul School

Thai Hua school honours late King CLOSE TO 2,000 PEOPLE gathered at the Phuket Thai Hua Asean Wittaya School last Friday morning (Dec 9) to honour and pay their respects to the late HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who passed away on Oct 13.

Led by School Director Sunan Malichu, students, teachers and parents gathered at the school’s sports area and formed the number nine in both Thai and Chinese numerals in honour of the late HM King Bhumibol, the ninth monarch of the Chakri Dynasty.

Mr Sunan said that 1,990

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1,900 people made up of students, staff and parents took part in the activity. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub people took part in the activity which featured three parts; 1. The Chinese numeral for nine which was formed by primary school students.

2. The Thai numeral for nine which was formed by high school students.

3. Thai Hua School in Chinese text which was formed by kindergarten students.

“We held this activity to show our unity and also with the late King’s vision of being harmonious,” Mr Sunan said.

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who played the Royal Anthem in honour of the King were delighted to join the historic event.

Located on Uttarakit Rd in central Krabi, the fivestorey new provincial hall building houses various local agency offices. Construction of the hall was completed in 2014 at a cost of about B113 million, Governor Phinit said.

He also said that a model of a rua hua thong, a local fishing boat, and one of Krabi’s symbols, would be presented to the King, along with other well-known local products, including lobsters, and local fruits.

HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn became Crown Prince on Dec 28, 1972, upon his coming of age after he was named heir to the throne

by His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Observing the 1924 Palace Law on Succession and the constitution, he officially became King on Dec 1 after

PHUKET NEWS

7

HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun in Krabi, which marked His Majesty’s first visit to one of the country’s provinces since his accession to the throne on Dec 1. Photo: Post Today accepting an invitation from the National Legislative Assembly, which immediately made his succession retroactively effective from Oct 13, the day of the late King Bhumibol’s passing.

Quoting HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn after a private audience with His Majesty on Oct 13, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said that His Majesty told him that he would wait for an appropri-

ate time before he ascends the throne, as he wanted to join the public in mourning the passing of His Majesty the King.

Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said earlier that the public can still wear black as a gesture of mourning for the late King, and that the government will issue announcements later regarding arrangements for the coronation ceremony.

Opinion 8

OPINION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

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084 307 7408 execeditor@classactmedia.co.th Fifteen years working in news and covering local issues and events in Phuket, with 18-month hiatus spent working for the Brunei Times on Borneo. From Queensland, Australia; 10 years living in the UK before moving to Phuket in 2000. Degree in business management. Spare time spent sailing or with family.

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EDITORIAL

Be proud of our culinary culture

M

ore than a dozen food vendors were recently evicted from beachfront land in Patong to make way for a new building in honour of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

This eviction highlights the sometimes depressing but inevitable trend of the new paving over the old in Patong and elsewhere in the island.

While the new building will no doubt be a fitting monument to the late King’s love of yachting, more often such vendors are making way for another multi-national chain restaurant.

Oscar Wilde said that all men end up killing what they love, and in the case of mass tourism, it is the tourist that ends up killing the destination they love. Mass tourism inevitably coincides with mass marketing and the implacable market force of mass demand

– which has the power to shape any city in its own image.

Thailand is known the world over for its delicious cuisine and no small part of that reputation owes its existence to the countless thousands of vendors roaming the nation’s streets, all specialising in their chosen dishes. As each new multi-national franchise moves in, Phuket inexorably moves towards the fate of becoming just another bland, anonymous “international city”.

I’m not advocating turning back the tide, not that we could, but we need to be proactive in promoting and sustaining our local food culture.

Countless cities have faced this problem before us, so we are not short of good solutions and examples to follow. But what comes first is a recognition that it is happening. After that realisation we can begin to see the importance of preserv-

ing or creating new spaces, especially in Patong, where small vendors can ply their trade and showcase Phuket’s unique cuisine to the world.

I agree that for many local people in the know, street food and local delicacies are comparatively easy to find.

Many tourists however, may pass them by un-tasted because they don’t know where to look or what to ask. A dedicated, central location for showcasing a wide range of local cuisines, promoted in tourist brochures and guidebooks, would be a boon to the island’s culinary reputation. With an organised layout and mandatory multilingual signs, such a place would make a tourist’s journey of discovering our local cuisine that much easier and more inviting. Let’s just make sure we keep a little bit of that Thai street-life chaos and not make it too bland.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Take a number: Phuket Airport immigration still overloaded Army hunts down Phuket taxi driver for refusing airport tourist passenger Sumatra quake rattles Phuket Korean woman charged over fatal collision, two Russians killed Frenchman found dead with stab wounds on Koh Samui His Majesty to visit Krabi Long weekend ahead as Thais celebrate Constitution Day No charges over Aussie tourist injured in Patong parasail plunge Woman, exhausted, rescued from filthy Phuket Town canal Temple warns violence will flare in row

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY Temple troubles

Re: Temple warns violence will flare in row “This type of action is contradictory to the Buddhist way,” he said. Is he referring to the impending raid or the stealing of millions of baht from the credit union fraud? There was a story just the other day that these same folks took all money from a man and his family and it was a substantial amount.

This fiasco needs to be sorted and I am sure it eventually will be. It’s just a shame that these followers do not let the law of the land follow its course. If he is innocent he will be freed, but if guilty, then he needs de-robing and to be sent on his way. Let the law sort it out. Promoting violence to stop the arrest and investigation makes this a farce. callaway ...................................................

Beaches are our lifeblood

Re: Slashed budget puts Phuket lifeguard patrols in danger Hotels should help make beaches safer because some (the big expensive ones anyway) are on or near the beach?

Is that a fair assessment of the PPAO’s reasoning? Using the same logic every hotel large or small is on a road so the PPAO should invite them to send their staff to help police with tourist road safety.

I look forward to the Hilton receptionist helping police at Chalong roundabout... God knows they need help. Firstclass beaches, third-class administration. benvenuto The PPAO chief should lose his job instantly. He is clearly a man who cares nothing of the safety of tourists, who puts money before peoples lives.

I personally am going to put his statement online, along with copies of the many deaths by drowning which have happened in Phuket over the past year. Maybe when this is seen by potential tourists, something will be done to put people’s safety before money hungry bureaucrats. bustermanidogs Swimmer safety must be number one priority. Suggest authorities change the way the beach is managed if you are not happy with it but not the funding! Tow-

ers installed are not appropriate for most beaches.

By all means ask hotels to supplement the basic service already available but don’t replace it! Phuket Beaches must be patrolled and tourists must be educated about the dangers.

Safety First ...................................................

Double standards

Re: Take a number: Phuket Airport immigration still overloaded On a recent trip, two planes arrived from Australia and a European country at the same time. Nine counters were open for Thais and six for foreigners.

There were no Thais on either plane. Rocket science hey!

Also, why are trainees working the counters in peak periods? Come to Thailand and experience the dream is the advert, in many cases the holiday is ruined before it starts. spider Re: Take a number: Phuket Airport immigration still overloaded The wait times only apply to foreigners. Thais have their own lanes and only have to wait a few minutes.

Cha Cha Immigration

Food for thought

Re: Patong Mayor unveils plans for Loma food centre as vendors agree delayed eviction What type of typical Thai things will eventually remain on Phuket? What will go next?

The markets? Why not upgrade the food court then?

If you take away all the Thai flavour and there will be no reason for tourists who want to experience and enjoy the typical Thai culture, local eateries and way of life to visit Thailand any longer. Phuket and Koh Samui have lost most of their charm thanks to the Thainess being destroyed. yvonne People like “street food”, but there is no shortage of places to find it, especially in Patong.

Meanwhile, this particular location is the definition of “prime real-estate” being at the very centre of Patong Beach, and highly visible to everyone that comes. A building here will become a landmark and an emblem for Phuket that could become recognised world-wide.

CaptainJack69

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

10 THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

City police chief 30,000 inmates likely to is urged to quit

be freed by royal pardon

BANGKOK PRESSURE IS MOUNTing on city police chief Lt Gen Sanit Mahathavorn to step down after he was found to be receiving monthly payments for advisory work from a major alcoholic beverage maker.

Srisuwan Janya, SecretaryGeneral of the Association for the Protection of the Constitution, has lodged a petition with the Office of the Ombudsman calling for a probe into his conduct.

Lt Gen Sanit, also a member of the coup-appointed National Legislative Assembly (NLA), is accused of breaching police ethics by taking on the advisory post with the alcohol empire.

The criticism came after the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) recently revealed asset declarations of a group of new NLA members, including Lt Gen Sanit.

According to his asset declaration, Lt Gen Sanit has been receiving a monthly payment of B50,000 from Thai Beverage Plc as an adviser to the firm since last year.

Mr Srisuwan said the city police chief’s link to the firm represents a conflict of interest, is against the police code of conduct and ethics of political

NATIONWIDE Bangkok Post editor@classactmedia.co.th

There has been nothing but a brusque ‘no comment’ from Bangkok police chief Sanit Mahathavorn. Photo: Tawatchai Kemgumnerd office-holders, and violates the anti-corruption law.

He said Lt Gen Sanit also serves as a member of the city’s alcohol control committee, which means his role as an adviser to the alcohol company obviously presents problems.

“He should resign as the city police chief and step down as an NLA member,” he said.

Worawit Sukboon, NACC deputy secretary-general, said on Tuesday (Dec 13) Section 100 of the anti-graft law prohibits any prime minister, minister, and local administration executive from being a contractual partner with private operators, but it does not mention anything about “state officials”.

Mr Worawil added the rules could be different when it comes to conflicts of interest and codes of conduct for officials. Lt Gen Sanit has declined to comment on the matter.

Bangkok Post

A

round 100,000 prisoners are qualified for a royal pardon announced last Sunday (Dec 11), with 30,000 likely to be released.

Of the inmates to be released, the first group was likely be out over the following three days. The other 70,000 will see their sentences reduced.

Among the high-profile inmates to walk free is Chuvit Kamolvisit, a former political party leader and entertainment tycoon who was convicted in January this year and serving a two-year jail term, according to Corrections Department chief Kobkiat Kasiwat.

This is the second time Chuvit was qualified for the royal pardon, he said.

According to official records, the previous royal pardon happened on Aug 8 this year to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s accession to the throne and Queen Sirikit’s 84th birthday.

His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindrade-

Inmates stand at attention during a drill at the Uthai Thani prison on Sept 6 this year. Photo: Bangkok Post bayavarangkun issued a royal decree last Sunday granting a pardon to minor offenders and those with health problems to mark his accession to the throne. The decree was published in the Royal Gazette and took effect on the same day.

Mr Kobkiat said last Saturday (Dec 10) that a panel had been set up at each prison to check the qualifications of prisoners.

“Those qualified are firstgrade prisoners or higher.

Repeat offenders, rapists, public fraudsters or drug traffickers are not qualified.”

He added lese majeste prisoners were eligible under the decree.

On measures prepared for the freed inmates, Mr Kobkait

said a multi-agency unit would be set up in each area to monitor them and ensure they would not break the law again.

Teerapol Khunmuang, director general of the Skill Development Department, said last Sunday that his department would be the core agency to train the freed people for the job market.

“We’ll also educate them about the labour law, welfare, social security and access to jobs,” he said.

The skills training will begin nationwide on Dec 19. At least one course for 20 people will be held in each province, he added.

“The skills to be trained are mainly those in demand such as tile-laying, welding

and lattice window making.”

Under the decree, eligible inmates are those sentenced to no more than three months in jail for minor offences, prisoners who do community or public service instead of paying fines, and prisoners released on parole, as well as the disabled and blind, those suffering from cancer, leprosy, HIV, chronic kidney failure, mental disorders, and first-time prisoners who are not 20 years of age on the day the decree comes into effect.

Prisoners on death row also see their penalties commuted to life imprisonment while those serving life term will see their sentences commuted to 50 years and then eligible to normal penalty reduction.

Suspected drug-dealing housewives blame it on economy UDON THANI THR EE HOUSEWIVES working for a most wanted Lao drug trafficker to supply narcotics to dealers in two northeastern provinces claimed economic woes had forced them to enter the drug trade so they could feed their families.

The trio also offered barter trade of speed pills for vehicles to attract cashless buyers.

Sujittra Singkha, 44, Pennapa Jaithad, 33, and Chankhajorn Pleechan, 39, all from Nakhon Phanom’s Ban Phaeng district, were caught separately in Udon Thani

Three housewives allegedly turning into illicit drug suppliers are interrogated by Udon Thani Police following their arrests in this northeastern province yesterday (Dec 13). Photo: Open Udon Facebook page province on drug charges, Col Vith Muthasin, Udon Thani investigation chief said on Tuesday (Dec 13).

Seized from them were

3,800 speed pills and two cars, he said.

The arrests followed a police investigation that Pennapa and Chankhajorn had

sold illicit drugs to small dealers in Udon Thani and Nong Bua Lam Phu provinces. Those who had no cash could barter their motorcycles or cars for speed pills. The rates were 200 speed pills for a motorcycle, 2,000 pills for a car and 2,500 pills for a pickup truck, Thairath Online reported.

A police spy posing as a customer contacted the two women offering to trade a motorcycle for speed pills.

As the pair showed up at a mall in downtown Udon Thani to deliver the drugs, police moved on to arrest them.

Pennapa and Chankhajorn confessed to having received

the drugs from a Lao man identified only as Sia Noi. They told police that they had dealt drugs several times as the sluggish economy drove them to earn money to support their families.

They said they were not drug addicts and only supplied them to small dealers.

Customers could pay cash for speed pills or pay with cars, pickup trucks or motorcycles, which would be handed over to Sia Noi, said the women.

Police later asked the suspects to buy two bundles of 3,600 speed pills from Sia Noi for B300,000.

The Lao national sent his Thai aide to supply the drugs

at a petrol station in Muang district of Udon Thani.

The woman, identified later as Sujittra, was arrested.

Sujittra claimed she was a hired hand who could barely make ends meet, not to mention education expenses for her children. This drove her to deal drugs with Sia Noi, who paid her B15,000 for each delivery.

Sia Noi also allegedly buys stolen vehicles from Thailand and gives cash to gamblers seeking to pawn their cars, said Col Vith.

Police would extend the investigation to arrest those involved.

Bangkok Post

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

ASIA NEWS 11

‘It’s good for the soul’ Myanmar’s heavy metal scene finally crashes into the open MYANMAR AFP editor3@classactmedia.co.th

M

oshing and sweating, the crowd of headbangers scream their angst into the sultry Rangoon night, a rare glimpse of a defiant musical subculture now crashing into the open – though sex, drugs and religion remain off the song sheet.

Half a century of repressive military rule virtually silenced Myanmar’s heavy metal scene and today its musicians are still shunned by most people in the conservative Buddhist country.

But a growing coterie of die-hard metal-heads say the aggressive, rasping music gives them a unique release in a nation still struggling to come to terms with its own dark history.

“Listening to metal is the best feeling. It is like freedom, it’s good for the soul,” 21-yearold mobile phone repairman Thaw Di Yoo said at a recent gig.

“It’s different from other

A crowd of young Myanmar music fans at a heavy metal gig in Yangon. Photo: Romeo Gacad/AFP music, that’s why I am only a fan of metal,” he said, showing a tattoo depicting the logo of his local heroes – Nightmare Metal Band – on his arm.

For A Phy u Yaung, a 30-year-old marketing manager, metal helps her escape everyday life.

“I mostly listen to metal songs when I feel stressed,” she said. “It can help chill me out when I’m feeling like that.”

For years metal bands were muzzled by strict censorship laws and dissident musicians

were jailed and often tortured for supporting the opposition.

Banned music was smuggled in on tapes and CDs and an underground scene of punks and headbangers began to grow up out of sight of Myanmar’s notorious police in the 90s.

Today the arts are flourishing, but metal music is still sidelined in a country where most prefer sickly sweet pop, crooning love songs or Burmese covers of Western hip hop tracks.

Like repressive socialist

India top for selfie deaths INDIA NEXT TIME YOU’RE AT the Taj Mahal, find yourself standing on a precarious cliff or see an approaching train, maybe just enjoy the moment rather than trying to capture the perfect selfie.

These are just three of the ways that 76 selfie-takers in India have lost their lives, according to a study published

by US-based Carnegie Mellon University and Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology Delhi.

In the quest for the coolest selfie, more people have died in India in the past two years than the total number of selfie-related deaths in the rest of the world, according to the study titled “Me, Myself and My Killfie: Characterising and Preventing Selfie Deaths”.

Using special search techniques to trawl the internet and social media, the researchers identified 127 confirmed selfie deaths since March 2014.

They blamed people’s desire for more “likes” and comments on social media for driving increasingly risky selfie-taking.

Three students in northern India died trying to take @thephuketnews

a daring selfie in front of an oncoming train, according to the study published recently.

Another student died when the cliff he was standing on cracked, sending him plunging 18 metres into a ravine.

A selfie-taking Japanese tourist died after he slipped down the stairs at the Taj Mahal while seven people posing for a group selfie died when the boat they were in capsized.

AFP

regimes in Eastern Europe and Russia, Myanmar’s junta feared the anarchist energy of heavy metal music.

Censors banned anything they thought could prove a spark for revolution – from too much red or black in artworks to the mention of roses in songs, seen as a reference to democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi. While underground metal musicians managed to stay out of jails, their jarring sound and brooding political lyrics were

publicly silenced.

“Metal is not the type of music that goes on about how much I love you and how much I miss you,” guitar instructor Myo Min Thu said in his teaching room, plastered with posters of US bands like Iron Cross and Metallica.

“We could not criticize Christianity or be anti-Buddhist. Politics was the worst at that time and we faced a lot of difficulties about lyrics.”

Myanmar officially abolished censorship in 2012, the year after the junta handed power to a quasi-civilian regime.

Freedom of expression blossomed and many musicians came out in support of Suu Kyi’s NLD party as it campaigned for last year’s election, the first free vote in a generation.

Today Myanmar’s heavy metal bands are still too coy to touch on topics like sex and death considered taboo in conservative Myanmar – in stark contrast to their peers in the West.

Instead, they are using their

new-found freedom to push for social and political change.

“In our new album, we mostly write about politics and the situation in the country,” said Last Days of Beethoven guitarist Phoe Zaw, 32.

“We write against... violence against Muslim people and Buddhist people in Rakhine state, violence against ethnic people in (other) states.”

Still, hardcore metal remains a niche genre.

While the number of bands has grown since the end of junta rule, there are still only a few dozen in Rangoon and a handful in the rest of the country of more than 50 million.

Not many venues will put on metal gigs and bands struggle to find sponsors who will pay for the high-level sound systems they need, while few shops stock the rare albums that make it onto labels.

“There are only a few shows here. I can count on my fingers the number of shows in a year,” said Phoe Zaw. “Very few people (organisers) want to hold underground shows, metal shows.”

12 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Argentines wrestling demons

Hundreds flock to Buenos Aires evangelical exorcism school ARGENTINA AFP editor3@classactmedia.co.th

M

anuel Acuna sprinkles holy water and waves his crucifix, then lays his hand on the sweating, shrieking woman before him.

This is not a horror movie.

It is a real-life mass at Acuna’s evangelical exorcism school – thought to be one of the first in Latin America.

The bespectacled 54-yearold Lutheran pastor trains lay people as “exorcism consultants”.

“They study the devil’s character and how he works,” he said, amid the rich smell of incense.

“The exorcism consultant will be able to determine where there is a case of a demonic presence, possession, oppression, obsession or a curse.”

Acuna has a passionate following. Crowds of hundreds flock to his Good Shepherd church on exorcism nights.

Bishop Manuel Acuna (left) performs a ritual at the ‘El Buen Pastor’ parish in Santos Lugares, on the outskirts of Buenos Aires. Photo: Juan Mabromata/AFP He has also earned the suspicion of fellow clergymen.

His 35 students pay $47 (B1,672) a month for his threeyear, part-time course in “Parapsychology, Angelology and Demonology”.

He insists it isn’t about the money.

“The mystery of the unseen provokes fascination in some people, but also a lot of criticism,” he said.

“I have been called all kinds of names. But I didn’t choose to be an exorcist. It is a calling from God.” Photographs on a wall

show Acuna meeting celebrities and even Pope Francis, a fellow Argentine.

But unlike Francis and most other Latin Americans, Acuna himself is not Catholic.

He is a protestant bishop from the New York-based Association of Independ-

ent Evangelical Lutheran Churches.

Clergy at four other Lutheran churches contacted by media distanced themselves from Acuna and his school.

“We have to ask ourselves how much of what is being advertised is true, and how much is business?” said one of them, pastor Esteban Tronovsky, who believes exorcism cannot be taught.

“How much of it is about winning fame, prestige, power and money? And how much of all that is actually linked to God’s truth?”

Acuna says he has performed some 1,200 exorcisms.

He still recalls the first.

In 2001, a teenage girl started writhing and speaking in tongues during a mass.

“On that day, with my first exorcism, I introduced myself to the devil,” he says.

“Being an exorcist became my way of life.”

Acuna’s monthly public exorcism sessions at his church in a suburb of Buenos Aires are noisy, passionate affairs.

At one such gathering at-

tended by media, participants swooned and yelled as demons appeared to possess them.

One woman spat out a red liquid. Acuna said it was because she had “made a pact (with the devil), sealed with animal blood.”

Acuna’s students include housewives, lawyers, a writer and an architect.

O ne of t hem , Glor ia Sanchez, 60, said she used to live in a haunted house.

Now she wants to learn “to help other people overcome, understand and resolve such situations,” she says.

“This course is giving me explanations to many experiences in my life that no one could explain,” she said.

“I feel blessed with power, to be doing this course at my age.”

At one of Acuna’s training sessions, IT technician student Eduardo Klinec, 53, practised what he has learned.

He demonstrated how to light a candle for use in an exorcism.

“With knowledge,” he said, “your fear and scepticism disappear.”

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

BUSINESS NEWS 13

PIMEX returns for 14th edition Presented by Thailand Elite, Phuket’s biggest trade show is back in 2017 SPONSORED

T

he fourteenth edition of PIMEX will take place at the award winning Royal Phuket Marina on Phuket’s east coast from January 5-8, 2017. The show is held during the holiday period when villa owners, long-term residents, and highend visitors are all still on the island following Christmas and New Year.

The 2016 show attracted over 5,000 quality visitors, and an annual event since 2003, the show is firmly fixed on the calendar as Phuket’s biggest trade show.

On the water all the major brands and brokers will be represented with over 40 yachts on display, from 10 metre to 30m, power and sail, monohulls and multihulls. Brands to look out for include Simpson Marine with Lagoon, Monte Carlo Yachts, San Lorenzo and Beneteau. Boat Lagoon Yachting with Princess Yachts, Jeanneau and Wider Yachts.

Go Boating Thailand with Majesty Yachts, Gulf Craft,

Royal Phuket Marina will once again be the backdrop for the annual PIMEX trade show, now in its 14th year.

Oryx and Silvercraft. Azimut Yachts Thailand, Sunseeker, Axopar, Fairline, Hanse and Moody complete the monohull displays. Multihull Solutions will be there with Fontaine-

Pajot, Corsair and the luxury Sherkan and Sail In Thailand will show the Thai built Island Spirit.

Overlooking the marina on the boardwalk there will

Renowned Boathouse taken over HOSPITALITY HPL HOTELS & RESORTS, the subsidiary of Singaporebased Hotel Properties Ltd and operator of hospitality establishments throughout the Asia-Pacific region, has announced that they have taken over the management of Boathouse by Montara, effective December 8.

The hotel will be re-branded as “The Boathouse Phuket”, under the brand of The Boutique Collection by HPL Hotels & Resorts.

@thephuketnews

“The Boutique Collection brand is all about providing personalised service and making guests feel at home, adding Boathouse to the cluster will complement the portfolio,” said Stephen Lau, Chairman of HPL Hotels & Resorts.

“This take over reflects our commitments to developing our business in Thailand and elsewhere in the region,” he said.

HPL Hotels & Resorts assures that it will be business as usual.

“Guests booked after the change in management can

be assured that the terms and conditions of their reservations will remain unchanged. And our team looks forward to welcoming them,” said Max Chin, General Manager of The Boathouse Phuket.

Located at Kata on Phuket’s west coast, the hotel started as a restaurant more than 27 years ago. The hotel currently features a total of 38 guestrooms, including 11 suites, a beach club, spa, sunset lounge, an award-winning wine cellar, a bar and the popular Boathouse Wine & Grill restaurant.

The Phuket News

be a number of smaller boats on trailers to interest the entry level buyer.

The air conditioned hall will feature charter holidays, marine engines and equip-

ment, smaller boats and tenders, water scooters, sports clothing, fishing tackle and other toys. PIMEX is also an island lifestyle exhibition and will feature luxury property

developments, exotic cars and motorcycles and other exciting products on display.

Al-fresco dining at one of five restaurants on the boardwalk will make for the perfect day out.

KidsMania will be available at discounted rates to keep the kids amused whilst Mum and Dad shop for their dream boat.

Enjoy live music over dinner in the cool of the evening with the most stunning view on the island.

During show hours Class Act Media, the local media partners, will be broadcasting Live 89.5 FM live from the show each day.

The show runs from 11am to 8pm daily and entry is free.

Come along and register for a chance to win a four day stay in a pool villa at The Village Coconut Island absolutely free. All are welcome to join in this fun event and get a taste of the Phuket Island lifestyle.

PIMEX, an event not to be missed!

For more details visit www. phuketboatshow.com

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Café del Mar set for Phuket

MontAzure brings music and entertainment icon to the beachfront HOSPITALITY The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

T

h e d e ve l o p e r s of Phuket’s most expansive upscale resort and residential community, MontAzure, have announced that its beachfront site in Kamala will include a beach club branded by world famous Café del Mar. The beachside venue is already under construction and will occupy a 2.5 rai (4,000 sqm) site with 40 metres of beach frontage. The club will feature a contemporary tropical design created by award-winning K-Studio, whose other signature projects include several celebrated retail, residential and leisure developments in Greece, including the renowned Scorpios Beach Club in Mykonos.

“As the island’s longest established entertainment specialists, it’s a great honour for us to work with two major names on such a high-profile project for Phuket,” said Santeri Nurmi, Managing Direc-

Globally renowned Café del Mar will open a beach club as part of the upscale MontAzure residential development at Phuket’s Kamala Beach. tor of Café del Mar, Phuket.

“The stunning waterfront strip at MontAzure is second-to-none and the perfect location for a lifestyle driven international beach club. Café del Mar will also provide the ideal venue for unrivalled events and world-

class performances.

“The arrival of such an iconic brand on the island demonstrates Phuket’s ongoing appeal as a premium destination,” said advisor to the venture, Supaluck Umpujh.

Ms Umpujh is also chairwoman of The Mall Group,

whose portfolio of projects include Siam Paragon, Emporium, EmQuartier, the recently opened BLUPORT Hua Hin Resort Mall and the upcoming BLUPEARL luxury retail and entertainment centre in Phuket, scheduled to open in 2018.

“We have been looking at Phuket for many years, but in the past the infrastructure was lacking,” Ms Umpujh said.

“Things are improving now, an extension of the air-

port is taking place, the formation of the Asean Economic Community [AEC]; it all can help Phuket become a playground of Southeast Asia,” Ms Supaluck added.

The Café del Mar brand has built an inimitable reputation around the globe for its laid-back coastal venues and original chill-out tunes. The label was born in Ibiza in 1980 at a bar next to San Antonio beach, and grew from the simple notion that people enjoy

a relaxed evening by the sea while listening to music and sipping on top-quality drinks.

Since 1994, Café del Mar has been releasing its own compilations of chill-out, lounge, ambient, chill house and Balearic beats – music that ref lects the spirit and atmosphere of Ibiza.

With more than 70 CD releases to date and millions of copies sold, Café del Mar is one of the largest music publishers of its genre in the world. A line-up of world class musicians have worked with the label including Moby, Underworld, Chicane, the legendary DJ Sanchez and José Padilla.

“Introducing such an illustrious global name as Café del Mar to the beachfront zone at MontAzure underlines our commitment to the very best international standards as we continue to build Southeast Asia’s most impressive oceanfront resort and residential community,” said MontAzure Executive Director Setthaphol Boottho.

“With partners such as Café del Mar, Twinpalms, Proud Real Estate and InterContinental Hotel Group, we are quickly positioning the north Kamala beachfront as Phuket’s high-end hospitality hotspot.”

The club will feature a contemporary tropical design created by award-winning K-Studio.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Canadian education expert to visit Phuket

16

Phuket’s talented youth strut their stuff on stage

FREEDOM FLIERS

17

A local group of bird-lovers like to let their colourful pets spread their wings > P21

A Sun Consure Parakeet takes to the wing at Bang Wad Dam in Phuket. Photo: Miikophotography

@thephuketnews

16 EDUCATION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Brain training at UWCT

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

A new program is life-changing for students struggling with specific learning difficulties

Natalie Weekes natalie.weekes@uwcthailand.ac.th

E

arly in 2015, United World College Thailand (UWCT) began to consider the possibility of providing a critically acclaimed education program from Canada here in Phuket. The Arrowsmith Program is the culmination of more than 30 years of implementation and refinement by best selling author Barbara ArrowsmithYoung.

UWCT first became aware of Arrow-

smith through The Brain Which Changes Itself, a New York Times best-seller by renowned Psychiatrist Norman Doidge.

The book tells Barbara’s fascinating life story and how she came to develop this life-changing program, initially out of necessity for herself, and then for thousands of students worldwide.

Results of the program are supported by a host of independent researchers in the field of neuroscience, such as Dr Lara Boyd from the University of British Columbia. The real life consequences for students are championed by a legion of grateful parents including the

Students in the program have shown significant advancements.

CEO of Microsoft, Satya Nadella.

Following a trip by a member of staff to Arrowsmith School in Toronto for specialist training, UWCT became the first and only school in Thailand, and one of only two international schools in Asia, that is able to offer the program for suitable candidates. Since beginning their journey with a single student in August 2015, the program has blossomed with students from across the continent joining at the beginning of every term so that they too can become part of the Arrowsmith family at UWCT. Results from UWCT students who have been on the program for a year or more are extremely encouraging. One of the region’s leading educational psychologists, who has monitored the progress of our first student for more than five years, repeated the same tests recently.

He reported that the student had made significant progress, far exceeding previous performance in reading comprehension, handwriting and written work in general. The changes in the student’s personality and social emotional confidence during the last 12 months are particularly impressive.

At a recent teacher meeting with the father of another student, he said, “His sister is having to come to terms with

Barbara Arrowsmith-Young. having a new brother!”

The father of our most recent addition to the team also called to let us know that, “I have never seen them so happy or enthusiastic about coming to school, ever.”

The next step for the Arrowsmith Program at UWCT is to warmly welcome the founder Barbara ArrowsmithYoung herself to the school. She will be at the School from March 22 to 26, 2017, and will deliver her presentation: “A Personal Journey Into the World of the Brain: Shaping the Mind” to all interested members of the UWCT community on Thursday March 23, 2017.

This is a whole school event to which students, parents, teachers and friends are invited. A particularly exciting development for discussion will be that from Term 1, 2017, UWCT will be able to deliver specific elements of the Arrowsmith Program on a part-time basis to “supercharge” the brains of already successful and talented students from age 8 to 18. They very much look forward to welcoming you all then, more details to come soon.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ENTERTAINMENT 17

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Senior Vocals winners from left: Julianna, Andrea and Kusum.

Junior Vocals winners Sasha, Vitalina and Dasha with Michael McCormick from Rockschool UK.

Phuket’s got talent!

Some of the island’s most talented young performers took to the stage at Boat Lagoon Gary Crause editor1@classactmedia.co.th

T

he Youth Talent Competition 2016 took place on December 4 at Boat Lagoon’s Whitehouse Marquee. Forty contestants aged between eight and 18 competed in three categories to see who would take home their share of the fantastic prizes on offer.

In each category, contestants that came first won B5,000 in cash, studio recording and video production, and Rockschool UK vouchers. The second placed contestants won B3,000 in cash and studio recording time, whilst the third placed contestants won B2,000 in cash. Exceptional Performance and Most Promising Performance awards were given to an additional five contestants.

After three and a half hours of fierce competition, while the scores were tallied and the judges had final debates, the crowd was kept enter-

tained by a host of special performances. These included vocal performances by adult choir Phuket Aloud, the PAPA Senior Vocal Group and individual performances by four of the Phuket Academy of Performing Arts’ youngest students, who stole the hearts of all in attendance.

The independent judging panel for the event was made up of Michael McCormick (Rockschool UK), Colin Hill (Colin Illy Hill Band, and music teacher), Gig Suwannurak (Thailand’s Got Talent finalist) and George Cordeiro (American touring musician and music teacher). The results for the competition were:

Junior Vocals for 8 to 12 years old

1st Place: Sasha Simkalova 2nd Place: Dasha Gorodtsova 3rd Place: Vitalina Oshchepkova With an Exceptional Performance award going to Tamino Lockenberg and Most Promising Performance Awards in this category going to Bonnie Desmond and Olivia Pulaski.

Instrumentalists

1st Place: Canon Cserepy 2nd Place: India Wilson

Senior Vocals for 13 to 18 years old

1st place: Kusum Basnet 2nd Place: Andrea Hosking 3rd Place: Julianna Mester With an Exceptional Performance award going to Morgane Mahler and a Most Promising Performer award handed to Lilyjane Mauraux Galle.

Chanon Cserepy gets his first place prizes from Michael McCormick. @thephuketnews

The invited special performers were 5-yearold Morgan Chettou singing I love Rock ‘n Roll, 6-year-old Alia Mackay singing Hideaway, 7-year-old Bella Yongsakul singing Count on Me and 8-year-old Celia de la Baume playing Piano.

All of the cash prizes were sponsored

by UWC Thailand. Music and video production prizes were sponsored by Legend Music Recording Studio. Rockschool UK sponsored exam vouchers for the winners. Boat Lagoon sponsored the venue and sound. Class Act Media were the event’s official media partner.

Additional prizes were sponsored by the Phuket Academy of Performing Arts and Skyla’s Surf and SUP Club.

Instrumentalist India Wilson came second.

18 COMMUNITY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

A new lease of life for linens He said that when he talked to a hotelier in Bangkok about launching Linens for Life there, he was initially met with scepticism.

Linen products on sale.

T

he Phuket Community Foundation (PCF) launched its latest cooperative project “Linens for Life” on December 3.

The project, in association with the Accor Group of hotels, Sealed Air/Diversey of Singapore and the Kankaeha Rassada Credit Union (CU), takes used linens such as sheets, towels and uniforms from hotels and converts them into clothing and bags.

The work is done by people from the local Rassada community, thereby providing them with a source of revenue. Some of the clothing, including dresses and shirts, along with bags, were displayed during the launch at the CU, with a fashion show, followed by an auction that raised B8,500 for the project.

Stefan Phang, corporate social responsibility director of Sealed Air/Diversey, which makes a variety of cleaning materials and food packaging, was behind the launch of similar projects elsewhere in Southeast Asia.

He explained that hotels have four major waste streams: soap, bottles of shampoo and other beauty products, food waste, and linens that are beginning to show their age. He said that when he talked to a hotelier in Bangkok about launching Linens for Life there, he was initially met with scepticism.

“They said, ‘We can sell this load of old sheets for B13,000. Why would we give them to you?’ I persuaded them to give us one load, which our people converted into products that were later sold for a total of more than B200,000. After that, the hotel was right behind the project,” he said.

Mr Phang provided funding to buy three industrial-weight sewing machines and local people in Rassada had been making bags and clothing over the previous few weeks in anticipation of the launch.

Sample dresses and bags were paraded in a fashion show during the launch at the CU’s offices, after

Linens for Life organisers pose with people wearing the products. which a shirt and four dresses were auctioned, raising B8,500 for the project.

The Linens for Life launch follows that of Soap for Hope in March this year, involving the same four partners.

The local people involved in Soap for Hope take used soap from Accor hotels, clean the soap bars using cleaning products from Diversey, chop them up, add natural ingredients for perfume, and press them into attractive new cakes of soap, which have been selling well in Phuket. Accor hotels have already bought more than a thousand cakes.

The CU is providing space for both projects at its spacious office building in Rassada. Accor hotels may commit to buying Linens for Life bags made from recycled sheets to use in place of plastic laundry bags in guest rooms.

Three industrial sewing machines were purchased.

Anyone wishing to enquire about buying soap, clothing or bags from the two projects can call Cindy Ratcliffe, the PCF’s manager, at 088 768 0650 or can email the PCF at talk-to-us@phuketcharity. org. Comments or queries can also be made through the PCF Facebook page facebook.com/The-Phuket-CommunityFoundation-61812277553

Learning skills for life Dianne Buerger editor1@classactmedia.co.th

L

ast month on Thursday, November 17, 40 members and guests of the Phuket International Women’s Club attended the annual Vocational College lunch in Phuket Town.

Always a favourite on the luncheon calendar, as it is a chance for members to meet and see how some of the students we sponsor are faring. Currently PIWC sponsors thirty students at the college in the courses of Hotel Services, Food and Nutrition, Tourism Industry, Commerce, Computer, Accounting, Home Economy and Retail Business.

Attendees were welcomed to the lunch at the newly opened Hotel Training facility restaurant. As usual we were availed of the opportunity to purchase some handmade craft items made by the students, served a welcome drink and given a souvenir from the students.

Mr Sukon Kaewtae, the Director of the college, welcomed us all with a short speech and Ajarn Ackanit was the MC throughout the lunch. A delicious buffet lunch of Thai specialities prepared by the students was served.

A moving performance of a program of songs were performed by a selection of students in remembrance of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The songs included: The Great King, The King of Our Land, Tree

Some traditional dessert items made by the hospitality students as part of the lunch buffet. of the King and The Photo of Every Home. These songs were originally composed in remembrance of His Majesty’s reign of Thailand for 60 years and also for his 80th birthday.

The students that were present were only part of the sponsored students as many of them were undergoing work experience in their respective fields. PIWC is extremely proud to be given this opportunity to improve the lives of these students and their families and help them help themselves.

thephuketnews

20 DINING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Choose from almost a dozen side dishes.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

The perfect, easy family dinner.

Enjoy a healthy family-style feast

T

ADVERTORIAL

he first Kenny Rogers Roasters in Thailand recently opened in Laguna, near Villa Market.

The store is the flagship for Roasters (Thailand) Co Ltd which has acquired the franchise to open KRR restaurants, initially in Phuket, and subsequently in the rest of Thailand.

KRR International Corporation is the franchisor for Kenny Rogers Roaster brand worldwide and has operations in the US, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, China, Philippines, Bangladesh,

Brunei, Cambodia, Dubai, India and now in Thailand. There are more than 230 Kenny Rogers Roasters restaurants worldwide. KRR International is a wholly owned company of Berjaya Corporation Berhad. In April 2008, Berjaya acquired the Kenny Rogers Roasters trademarks and trade names from the Nathan’s Famous hotdog chain in the US. Popular country and western singer, Kenny Rogers and former Governor of the state of Kentucky, John Y Brown Junior, originally set up Kenny Rogers Roasters in 1991. Seeing an opportunity to provide healthy and delicious food in a restaurant environment,

Kenny Rogers Roasters opened its first restaurant in Coral Spring, Florida in August 1991.

Kenny Rogers Roasters is a casual dining restaurant with rotisserieroasted chicken as its main core item complemented by a rich variety of hot and cold side dishes. This is made up of Kenny Rogers Roasters famous homemade muffins, jacket potatoes, vegetables salads, pastas, soups, desserts and beverages served in a friendly and comfortable environment. Fresh chickens are marinated with citrus, herbs and spices. They are then rotated in a woodfired rotisserie, allowing fat to escape, while sealing in the roasted flavour.

Individual meals are also available.

Wasabi Ranch Tuna – sliced tuna perfectly seared in Cajun spices.

Come in for a rockin’ Christmas ADVERTORIAL

T

he Hard Rock Café Phuket is offering a special Christmas set menu as well as special Rockshop promotions to celebrate a gift-giving season and the holidays. The café is now full of decorations with Christmas trees, presents, reindeer, and of course, Santa!

The special set menu costs B2,000 per person and starts with some Wasabi Ranch Tuna – sliced tuna perfectly seared in Cajun spices with shredded carrots and cucumber, and drizzled with lemon vinaigrette and wasabi ranch dressing.

For main course, you can choose from two delicious options. The first option is Cranberry Salmon with Roasted Vegetables – seared salmon fillet drizzled with cranberry sauce served with roasted tomatoes and asparagus in onion balsamic dressing.

If you are hankering for some red meat, try the Pan-seared Beef Fillet – premium pasture-raised Australian

beef fillet expertly seared and served with mashed potato, tomato salsa and cheesy vegetables.

For dessert it’s super-moist Carrot Cake – homemade-style moist carrot cake layered with rich cream frosting and topped with a cranberry sauce.

The Rockshop is also full of Christmas decorations and is the perfect place to find a great holiday gift for family and friends. Special Christmas offers at the Rockshop include – buy three adult T-shirts and get a free shot glass; buy four adult T-shirts and get a free classic hat; or buy five adult T-shirts and get a free classic T-shirt.

So make sure you drop-in to the Hard Rock Café Phuket this holiday season for a rockin’ good Christmas.

Pan-seared Beef Fillet. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EXPLORE 21

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Free as a bird on the wing

W

hilst song birds – particularly the Redwhiskered Bulbul, commonly seen around the island in ornate wooden cages – are popular pets in Southern Thailand, there The Sun are also several bird-fancier groups that love parrots of every species.

Conure is Phuket’s central Bang Wad Dam is a the most favourite location for a group of local birdpopular pet for lovers who enjoy letting their parrots out to stretch bird-lovers because their wings, so to speak. What makes these groups a bit different to people who keep birds for their meloditheir feathers are ous song, is that instead of keeping their pets cooped as colourful as a up, they allow them at times to fly freely. They trust that their doted-on pets will return to the hand that rainbow. feeds them and not make a dash for freedom.

I recently visited one of these groups at Bang Wad Dam, where more than 30 birds and their owners gathered for a day of fun in the sun. This group is called Free Flying Phuket and it aims to unite parrot lovers from all around the island to share their fascination for these majestic birds and swap tips and techniques for their health, care and training.

Teerawat “Man” Leenoot, the founder of Free Flying Phuket, says, “With Free Flying Phuket, our purpose is to bring parrot people together for education, fun, networking and friendship.

“Every Wednesday and Saturday, everyone will come to the viewpoint of the dam at 5:30pm.”

Man says Bang Wad Dam is the best location for bird flying on the island, because there is wide open spaces and it is surrounded by nature and verdant vegetation. As I watched the group, about seven or eight birds were set on perches outside of their cages and able to fly around together until the setting sun made it too dark to see.

Man says there are a few crucial things to understand before attempting to allow a pet bird to free-fly, “Birds must understand basic command words such as a ‘call back’ to command it to come back to its perch.

“Birds have to be trained from a very early age to be able to do free-flying,” he adds.

Anusorn Sarima, the leader of Free Flying Phuket describes some of the species of parrot they have in the group.

“In our group there are several types of birds, including Sun Conure Parakeets, majestic South-American Macaws, the highly intelligent African Grey Parrot, as well as several Cockatoo and the smaller Cockatiels.

“We are happy to help bird beginners learn about bird behaviour, health and breeding and also just talk The highly intelligent African Grey Parrot. about the pleasures of owning Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

@thephuketnews

The majestic Green-winged macaw. a parrot. Many of us also breed birds, some of our members breed lovebirds, someone breeds cockatiels and someone breeds Sun Conures too.

“A parrot’s price depends on how rare that particular species is. For example, a Blue and Gold Macaw could cost between B46,000 to B50,000 on the open market.

“If these birds are well taken care of from when they are babies, they will be tame and love their owner, much like a cat.”

Teerawat went on to say, “The Sun Conure is the most popular pet for birdlovers because their feathers are as colourful as a rainbow. Sun Conures are also a very smart and can be very welltrained. They are not too big, but they are very loud... really loud! So they are

The colourful Sun Conure is a popular pet. not able to be kept in a condominium or rental rooms. Your neighbours could get quite annoyed with a Conure’s talking.

“Taking care of a bird is not hard, they just need a clean place, good food and love,” he adds.

22 ISLAND SCENE

Members of the Aksara Collection management team.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

The Aksara Collection management team and guests at the launch party last Saturday.

AKSARA COLLECTION TEAM LAUNCHES NEW PROJECT 'SIS KATA RESORT' The Aksara Collection Team led by Khun Kanokkorn, Khun Anchisa and Khun Phanwara Phatharaworanee invited local media to join a launch party for their newest project “The SIS Kata Resort” last Saturday (Dec 10). Aksara Collection is a Phuket born and developed family business which operates both resorts and apartments on Phuket island.

JAMES SUCKLING WINE EVENT AT THE NAI HARN

Members of the Patong Beach and Phrom Thep Rotary Clubs get ready to donate helmets.

TWO PHUKET ROTARY CLUBS DONATE 200 HELMETS TO KIDS Last Friday (Dec 9), the Rotary Clubs of Patong Beach and Phrom Thep gave 200 helmets to kids as part of their “Helmets for Kids” project. The project aims to supply 2000 helmets to local school children before July 1, 2017.

From left: James Suckling and Frank Grassmann, General Manager of The Nai Harn Phuket.

With the two sell-out shows of Great Wines of Italy in Hong Kong and Bangkok in early December 2016, James Suckling brought his successful event for a “Limited Edition” to Phuket’s iconic The Nai Harn Resort.

James Suckling and top Italian wine producers and winemakers of worldrenowned estates presnted a range of their wines in person. Guests were also treated to a multi-course live cooking dining experience created

by Executive Chef Mark Jones.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 23

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Nadia Zenato of the world-renowned Zenato Winery with David Ghani, Managing Director of Brand Connect Phuket.

Guests enjoyed a delicious three-course meal and wine pairings.

ZENATO WINE DINNER AT PULLMAN ARCADIA PHUKET Guests enjoyed a fabulous evening at Vero Trattoria & Wine Bar at Pullman Phuket Arcadia in Nai Thon Beach on December 8. The evening was hosted by David Ghani, Managing Director of Brand Connect Phuket, who invited Winemaker and jeweller Nadia Zenato of the world-renowned Zenato Winery to discuss her family’s long tradition of wine-making in the Verona region, which is located in Northern Italy near Venice.

From Left: Suneetha Raghunath, Mr Kanit Yongsakul of Boat Lagoon, Ravindranath Raghunath of Kenny Rogers Roasters Thailand, and Amy and Francis Lee of Marina Bay Sands.

Wicky Sundram of Boat Lagoon (2nd left); Craig Ferguson, Australian ConsulGeneral in Phuket (centre) and Boon Yongsakul of Boat Lagoon (2nd right).

KENNY ROGERS ROASTERS HOME-STYLE COOKING COMES TO PHUKET Want quick but healthy food? Head on over to Boat Plaza in Cherng Talay and try the fantastic and healthy roast chickens with all the trimmings at the newly opened Kenny Rogers Roasters. Selected locals and media were treated to dinner at the official opening ceremony on Dec 7, all vowed to return.

The PIWC ladies enjoying coffee and conversation at their monthly meeting.

The BCBG’s Secrets Girls got a chance to learn some authentic Thai dishes hand’s on.

PIWC LADIES ENJOY THEIR MONTHLY MEET AND GREET AT STARBUCKS

AYARA RESORT AND SPA IN KAMALA LAUNCHES COOKING SCHOOL

Members of the Phuket International Womens Club (PIWC) gathered in Starbucks at Central Festival last week for some good coffee and conversation as part of their regular monthly sip-and-chat event.

Ayara Resort and Spa in Kamala launched their new Ayara Thai Cooking School last week with the help of the BCBG’s Secrets Girls.

From Left: Live 8 9. 5 DJ J a s o n Wilder interviews Oliver Wells, Senior Sales Manager for The Village at Coconut Island.

LIVE 89.5 RADIO HIT THE SHORES OF COCONUT ISLAND The Live 89.5 radio team hopped in a longtail boat and sped out to beautiful Coconut Island. During their visit they done an outside live broadcast at The Village at Coconut Island and interviewed Senior Sales Manager Oliver Wells. @thephuketnews

Dr Passaratep “Pat” Anurukpaiboon (centre) talked with an interested group of expats about the prevention and treatment of potentially lethal skin cancer.

TALK ON THE DANGERS OF SKIN CANCER AT PHUKET INTERNATIONAL HOSPITAL Dr Passaratep “Pat” Anurukpaiboon, MD, D. Sc., Director of Dermatology at Phuket International Dermatology Institute recently gave a talk on the topic of: “Can Skin Cancer become lifethreatening disease?” In the Hall of Fame, all participating expats – including Expat Privilege Cardholders – were treated to useful knowledge and tips on how to take care of their skin and prevent skin disease/cancer. They rounded it all up with a brief tour of PDI – a word-class skin care centre located in Phuket, which addresses both cosmetic treatment and skin diseases for local and international clients.

24 EVENTS

FRI

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

live station, entertainment, kid’s corner and massage corner. From 1,650++ THB. 12.00 - 15.30. Reservation: info@xanabeachclub.com 076 358 500.

16 DEC Saturday Live Music

Indian Curry Night on Fridays

Every Saturday live music by the Soulcoustics, 9pm til late. Cariocas Bistro & Lounge Phuket Town, near BKK Hospital.

Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast First Week Friday and the Third Week Friday, in Karon Beach. Try out our delicious Aloo Tikki, Samosas, Chicken Tandoori, Aloo Gobi, Navrang Korma, Butter Chicken, Lamb Vindaloo, Naan, Rice, Salads, Chutneys / Achars, Pistachio Ice Cream, Gulah Jamun, Fruits. And extra dishes on the menu: ONIONBHAJI, BOMBAY ALOO, DAL MAKHINI, VANILLA ICE-CREAM. For only 499/nett and special reduced prices on drinks. 076-286464 Ext 4.

NRL, AFL, Soccer, Rugby Union. Any live sport, we will show it. Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com.

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.

Every Wednesday! All-you-can-eat Pasta and Pizza at Bellini Every Wednesday Eat all you can Pizza and Pasta for only 500 Baht. Drink all you can for only 450 Baht – or BOTH eat and drink all you can FOR ONLY 890 Baht with DOUBLE EXPRESSIONS LIVE! Wednesdays 6pm to 11pm at Bellini. info@pastabellini.com.

Located at Chalong Circle, Chao-Fa East.

Live Sports at Expat Hotel

SUN

18 DEC

WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong from 12-6pm! Indulge in All You Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs, Cajun Chicken and Sides for ONLY 395 BAHT! Our BBQ is famous at Two Chefs! Come try us out and enjoy our mouthwatering pork ribs, flavorbursting chicken and more! Come for the FOOD Stay for the FUN at Two Chefs!!! www.twochefs.com.

Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914.

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.

The Sunday Brunch tradition in Phuket continues at The Slate Phuket’s most renowned Sunday Brunch with a fantastic assortment of some of the world’s favourite cuisines. Also featuring creative cuts straight off the hot charcoal grill to freshly sliced sashimi and maki rolls, oysters served with your choice of lemon or shallot vinegar and a plethora of other dishes including cheeses, cold-cuts and barbequed lobster. Free-flow drinks packages from 2,050THB++ Kids get 50% off food, play in the family pool, joy in Coliseum Garden’s Bouncy Castle & inflatable water balls. For bookings call: +66(0)76 327 006.

Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Beach, Kata Center, Karon and Patong for Only 395 Baht! Enjoy a Large ALL YOU CAN EAT selection of your favorites from 12-6pm! Featuring: Roast Aussie Beef, Pork Loin and Chicken. Roasted or Mashed Potatoes. Roasted Mixed Vegetables Flavoured with Thyme and Garlic.

Yorkshire Pudding and Red Wine Gravy. 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

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.

SAT

24 DEC

Go Live Sunday Seafood Brunch The Banyan Tree Seafood Brunch experience returns with a generous selection of live fresh, local and imported 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.

MON

19 DEC

Christmas Eve at The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa Phuket Christmas Eve celebrations with Roast Turkey and trimmings, festive goodies, seafood selection, sweets and dessert buffet. At Seasonal Tastes, 2,600++* per person (Food only). *Price is in Thai Baht and subject to 10% service charge and applicable government tax.

Advanced reservation is recommended: 076 335 722.

Mussels night @ Shakers 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.

SAT

17 DEC

Full Moon Party Volume 7 at XANA Beach Club From 8 PM till 1 AM. 300 THB including complimentary drink.

Sunday Brunch Every Sunday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM Enjoy an exquisite Sunday Brunch with a variety of seafood selection on ice such as crab, oysters, king prawns and more wide variety of cuisine available from classic dishes to signatures. Prices starting from 1,200++ Baht for buffet and free flow soft drinks. Reservations, HYATT REGENCY PHUKET RESORT, fnb.phuhr@ hyatt.com, 076 231 234.

WED

21 DEC

Christmas Dinner at Leonaro Da Vinci

2,800 Baht per person - including a glass of selected beverage or 6,800 Baht for 2 people - including a bottle of selected beverage. Kids set menu price per person (Age up to 12-years-old) 1,500 Baht - including a welcome drink. Reservations, Leonardo Da Vinci, Karon, Phuket, reservationa@leonardodavinci.asia, 076 604 296.

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach 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.

BBQ Buffet on Saturday Night Come and join us along the shores of the Andaman sea for an unforgettable experience of freshest seafood, generous selection of BBQ items, tempting desserts and delicious drinks. At Cosmo Restaurant.

Everyday from 6.30pm until 10.00pm. 1,950 THB for adults, 975 THB for children under 12. Reservations, Cosmo Restaurant at The Nai Harn Phuket, fbreservation@thenaiharn.com, 076 380 200.

All you can eat BBQ night 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 Fun Brunch Phuket’s most popular brunch experience. Seafood,

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.

Christmas Buffet Dinner at the Bistro Enjoy Christmas’ Eve and Christmas Day with friends and family. Our executive chef has created a wonderful Christmas buffet dinner to experience the Christmas Spirit. Adults: THB1,350++ per person, children: THB700++ per person The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations for The Bistro at Millennium Resort Patong: fb@millen niumpatong.com, 076 601 999.

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24 DEC

WED

28 DEC New Years Eve Dec 31st at All Two Chefs Locations!

Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet and Party @ Friendship Beach Friendship Beach Resort welcomes you to our 12th annual Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet and Party. Featuring: Live Jazz/Pop Quartet “Tropical Rhythm”,Children’s Choir, Santa Claus w/presents for the kids, Welcome Cocktail, Traditional Buffet with Roast Turkey, Baked Ham, Apple Sausage Stuffing, Cranberry Port Sauce, Thai Seafood Special, Prawn Cocktail, and a large selection of Appetizers, Desserts and Salads. Adults 1,800++ Kids under 12 600++. Reservations: +66 (0)89 728 5304, email chef@friendshipbeach.com Chef Charlie, 27/1 Soi Mittrapap Rawai Phuket 83130, chef@friendshipbeach.com, +66 (0) 89 728 5304, 076 613 582.

GRAND OPENING! First Açai Bar opening in Thailand! Come and try some of our Açai Bowls and Superfoods. Açai berries from the Amazon forest are full of antioxidants, fatty acids and vitamins! Most of all it’s delicious... We are offering a 50% discount on opening day with this ad. See you soon! Facebook: /acaiheaven Acai Heaven, Soi Ta-ied, Across Dragon Muai Thai Chalong, Phuket, 093 920 3491.

THU

29 DEC New Year’s Eve Buffet at The Bistro New Year Eve Buffet Dinner at The Bistro. Celebrate the joy of the season. Join us for the New Year Eve Buffet Dinner at The Bistro. Adults: THB1,900++ per person, children: THB950++ per person. The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations: The Bistro at Millennium Resort Patong, fb@millenniumpatong.com, 076 601 999.

GRAND OPENING! Traditional Christmas Buffet Join us on Saturday Dec 24th for a Traditional Christmas Buffet at Two Chefs Kata Beach. Enjoy your holiday celebration with us. We are offering an early buffet at 6pm and a late buffet at 9pm. Including: Cold Smoked Salmon, Roast Beef, Christmas Ham, Pickled Herring, Swedish Meatballs with Cream Sauce, “Jansons Frestelse” Potato Gratin Flavoured with Scandinavian Anchovy, Ginger and Honey Marinated Pork Ribs, Chocolate Mousse, Gingerbread Cookies, Rice à la Malta with Strawberry Sauce and Much More! 1,450 Baht for Adults, 750 Baht for Kids Under 12. Reservations: kata@twochefs.com or 076 333 370.

SUN

Enjoy your celebration with us while indulging in a delightful set menu for Only 1,295 Baht. Includes: AMUSE – BOUCHE: Gin - Citrus cured seabass with avocado foam, apple and tarragon salad STARTER: Venison Carpaccio with orange and horseradish SECOND COURSE: Lobster Bisque Cappuccino MAIN: Beef Tenderloin with truffle and foie gras sauce, potato gratin and roasted vegetables or Cedar plank salmon with dill mashed potatoes, confit tomatoes and vodkalemon cream sauce DESSERT: Poached pear with basil strawberry cream, vanilla sponge and an allspice crumble.

New vegan restaurant with creative food opening in Chalong. Come see our awesome menu with choices of only plant based creative food. Most of our items are allergen-free. We strive away from gluten as well with many desserts gluten-free. Get 30% off on opening day! Facebook: /pureveganheaven Pure Vegan Heaven, Soi Ta-ied, Next to Dragon Muai Thai, Chalong, Phuket, 093 920 3491.

SAT

31 DEC

THU

5 JAN

co-located:

www.veryinternationalphuket.com

Very International Phuket 2017 - Live the Island Life!

Save the dates! Luxury & Lifestyle goods & services to be showcased at Royal Phuket Marina, alongside the successful Boat Show PIMEX. Meet the exhibitors during the day then be entertained by special shows at the outside venue in the evening. All global and local brands are waiting for you to visit. Keep up to date with what’s on, follow our Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and register now!.

25 DEC

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.

Themed Seafood Buffet Dinner Delicious Excitement with Themed Buffet Dinners: Enjoy our themed dinners at The Bistro for only THB950++. Mon, Wed: Pacific Rim. Tue, Thu, Sat: Seafood BBQ. Fri:: Southeast Asian Flavors. Sun: Mediterranean Flavors. The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations: The Bistro at Millennium Resort Patong, fb@millenniumpatong.com, 076 601 999.

New Year’s Eve. Party & Dinner Buffet @ Friendship Beach O’Tools - Traditional Christmas Lunch & Dinner Will be served from 1pm on Christmas Day. Xmas Menu Starter: Prawn Cocktail or Melon with Port. Main Courses: Roast Turkey with Stuffing, Roast Potatoes, Fresh Seasonal Vegetables & Yorkshire Pudding (please ask). Dessert: Christmas Pudding wih Brandy sauce. Only 740 Baht inclusive per person. Free Christmas Present for the kids (0-16 Years). Book Now. Reservations, 093 696 1178.

TUE

Friendship Beach Resort welcomes you to our 12th annual New Years Eve Party & Dinner Buffet. Featuring Live DJ, Cabaret Show, Fire Show, Welcome Drink, Party Favors.Buffet with: Imported Beef Fillet w/Cognac Cream, Grilled Salmon, BBQ Pork Ribs (award winning), Roast Duck Curry, Prawn Cocktails & a large selection of Appetizers, Desserts and Salads. Adults 1,900++ Kids under 12 700++. For Bookings: 66 (0)89 728 5304 or email chef@friendshipbeac.com Chef Charlie, 27/1 Soi Mittrapap Rawai Phuket, chef@friendshipbeach.com, +66 (0) 89 728 5304, +66 (0) 76 289 139.

27 DEC

New Year Sensation 2017 At Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas HEALTHY MEXICAN RESTAURANT Taco Tuesday!

Create your own food at our new Mexican-inspired restaurant, authentic food with a healthy mindset.

Soft corn tacos, rice bowls, salads, burritos and much more… Get one free selected beverage with your tacos order this Tuesday! Facebook: Mexican Corner Phuket Mexican Corner Phuket, 093 920 3491.

@thephuketnews

Feast on sumptuous salad, a fresh seafood, BBQ and carving stations, mouthwatering Western dishes and authentic Thai cuisine, including Phuket favourites, followed by local Thai dessert temptations while guests will be entertained with Thai classical performances and lucky draws for only THB 4,999 per person and THB 1,999 per person for free-flow beverages throughout the night. For more information and reservation, call +66 76 231 999 or email h8109@accor.com

Phuket International Boatshow PIMEX 2017

7 Nights, 7 Themed Dinners at Rim Talay

The 14th edition of PIMEX will take place at the award-winning Royal Phuket Marina on Phuket’s east coast. The 2016 show attracted over 5,000 quality visitors. An annual event since 2003, the show is firmly fixed on the calendar as Phuket’s biggest trade show.

Broadcasting Live89.5 FM live from the show each day. Entry is free. Come along and register and get a chance to win prizes. Not to be missed! For more details visit www.phuketboatshow.com Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News.

Make each night unique! Enjoy our themed dinners with the cool sea breeze. World of Curries @790THB++, Thai & International Buffet @790THB++, Seafood Night @980THB++, Ribs Wing & Rings @770 THB++, Butchers Night @market price, Surf & Turf @950 THB++, Thai Seafood Gala @980 THB++ Only in December (except 24 and 31 December), show the promo code: PMRTPN2016/2 to receive a 10% discount! For reservations, email rimtalay@amari.com or call 076 340106-14 #8027.

EVERY DAY La Gritta’s Discovery Menu

All Day Breakfast at Cafe Siam Aussie bacon & egg rolls NOW at Cafe Siam. All

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.

26 TIME OUT

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. Where did Panama hats originate?

2. What musical instrument’s sales escalated from 228,000 in 1950 to 2.3 million in 1971?

3. In which country is Timbuktu?

4. Which playwright wrote Cat on a Hot Tin Roof?

5. Called Coleoptera, meaning sheathed wing, what commonly known order of creatures contains more species than any other?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

Across 1. List components 6. Lance 10. Siouan Indian 14. Religious scroll 15. Fleece chaser 16. Honey bunch?

17. Duplicate 18. Abound 19. Miles away 20. Intense activity 23. Bentsen of Texas 24. Easily tamed bird 25. Preoccupy 28. Tiny amount 32. Prefix with orthodox 33. Belle ___ 36. Still in the game 37. Distract with fast talking 41. Improvised 42. Homologous 43. ___ user 44. Excited 46. Abounding in locks 49. Plastic man 50. “Two Women” Oscar winner 52. It ___ (both wrongdoers are responsible) 59. Taking care of business

60. Donnybrook 61. City named for an Indian tribe 62. Spicy Mexican sauce 63. “Nothing ___ Matters” (Metallica song) 64. Vagabond 65. Company 66. Appraiser 67. Ashes, e.g.

Down 1. Cast wearer’s problem 2. Medicinal balsam 3. Winged figure 4. Chimneypiece 5. Ammo casings 6. Southeast Asian dish 7. General direction 8. Like some cigars 9. Jacket type 10. Sleeveless vestment 11. Fissure 12. Like an oxeye window 13. “As you ___” 21. Red dye 22. Eskimo boat 25. Ready to be drawn

26. Astragals 27. Theo ending 28. Where to find a hero 29. Bar stock 30. U.S. swimmer 31. Caroline’s uncle 34. Gob 35. Albanian coin 38. On the calendar 39. Throbs 40. Prelim 45. Salmon, maybe 47. Comeback 48. Bewitch 50. ___ change 51. Fur source 52. Dead center?

53. Celebes buffalo 54. Hot spot 55. Cunning 56. Pews’ place 57. Indian dish ingredient 58. Pair at sea

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) Ecuador; 2) The guitar’s; 3) Mali (Africa); 4) Tennessee Williams; 5) Beetles.

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

December 16, 1773 Boston Tea Party: Members of the Sons of Liberty disguised as Mohawk Indians dump hundreds of crates of tea into Boston harbor as a protest against the Tea Act.

7

per cent of the world’s population is estimated to be drunk at anyone time.

December 17, 1819 Simón Bolívar declares the independence of Gran Colombia in Angostura (now Ciudad Bolívar in Venezuela).

9

yolks is the most that have ever been found in a chicken egg.

50

December 18, 1777 The United States celebrates its first Thanksgiving, marking the recent victory by the American rebels over British General John Burgoyne at Saratoga in October.

times a day is how often lions can mate.

2,500

December 19, 1924 The last Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost is sold in London, England.

left handed people are killed per year, from using products made for right handed people.

25,000

December 20, 1606 The Virginia Company loads three ships with settlers and sets sail to establish Jamestown, Virginia.

species of orchids occur naturally in the world.

December 21, 1937 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the world’s first full-length animated feature, premieres at the Carthay Circle Theatre.

800 million US dollars is the estimated worth of golf balls used by golfers each year.

Source: Uberfacts

This week in history

Taking a closer inspection of marine life. Photo by Mark Knowles Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket?

Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

December 22, 1968 Cultural Revolution: People’s Daily posted the instructions of Mao Zedong that it is “The intellectual youth must go to the country, and will be educated from living in rural poverty.”

Source : Wikipedia thephuketnews

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STORAGE Reserve Your Storage Space

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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

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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 Boating deal of the year: 7.5m baht (reduced 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.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Business for sale

Phuket Car Rentals and Internet Shop is for sale as the owner has to return to his country to obtain a pension. The cost is US $27,000 and includes 4 cars, 2 scooters, 1 motorbike and 8 computers. Rawai is a pleasant area to live. The shop has pleasant accommodation upstairs. Ownership allows a work permit and 1 year visas. 0987075945, bobskibarnett@gmail.com

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.

REST-BAR-LOUNGE RAWAI BEACH

Beautiful decoration - Private terrace - Seaview - Sound system - Led lights - Air conditioned - Fully equipped - 400sqm - 2 levels - Parking - Ready for work: superstaronthebeach@ hotmail.com, 092 526 0222.

Looking for investor / partner

Looking for investor / partnership for Patong beach front location to start with Japanese and Indian restaurant.

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

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

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Restaurant for sale in Rawai

All new equipment, air conditioned, private terrace, unlimited parking. All offers considered. optispa@gmail. com, 088 386 9132, 063 067 4498.

Looking for a Partner Investor

I am looking for a Partner/Investor to expand my Dive business. Anyone interested please email me to discuss the proposal. rwhi690169@bigpond.com

Restaurant set up for sale

A fully equipped restaurant in the highly sought after Boat Avenue mall in Laguna.

Stainless steel kitchen, Wi-Fi, bar counter, service area. Ready to go in days. Email: jukeboxphuket@gmail.com, 081 090 1608.

CAR FOR SALE BMW 323i

323i. One owner since new. No accidents; excellent condition. 105,000km; cared for with BMW service. Full history available. 395,000THB, Thalang, Phuket, jrh1@me.com, 086 989 0919.

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.

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.

CAR FOR SALE n r ge

U

t sa

le

Honda Jazz 2009 1500cc Auto

57,000km. One owner since new.

Regularly serviced by Honda. Tax and Insurance until the end of June and available now at right offer. Reduced by 40,000 bht, REDUCED to 330,000bht o.n.o, Andy +66846909144, andysmalster@gmail.com

MEMBERSHIPS Life Time Family Membership

Blue Canyon: 750,000 THB includes 140,000 transfer fee.

Loch Palms: 425,000 THB includes 72,000 transfer fee.

Tanita, 094 695 3536 / 063 992 3226

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

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE New loft trailer

Fully welded steel construction. Proper fenders springs, hitch, lights, toungue jack, alu deck. Fits M/C, ATY, const, landscape. 1700 lb. cap. 65,000 THB, 081 693 8214.

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.

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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

PROPERTY FOR SALE X2 Vibe Phuket Bangtao

The designed for astute buyers who appreciate the luxury of space with functionality and the enjoyment of modern tropical lifestyles 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.

Condominium for sale

Foreign Freehold 150 SQM Huge Ground Floor 2 Bed 2 Bath condo.

150m to Nai Harn Beach. 8.2M THB. paulover@hotmail.com, 089 875 4173.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

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)

Luxury 4 bed Villa ‘Price Reduced’

Opportunity for small Resort. Luxury 4 BDR Villa + 3 Bungalows + Land Plot, must see. (Price reduced, 19,990,000 baht, 3 Chanotes, 1075 sq m.), (4 BDR Villa, pool, gym, steam room + 1 x 2 BDR Bungalow), (Price reduced, 7,990,000 baht, 3 chantes, 792 sq m.), ( 2 Bungalows & Land Plot, 2-BDR + 1-BDR). www. phuketvilla.asia. Location - 7°47’23.1”N 98°18’53.4”E (call to view). Contact Chris 087 884 8972.

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.

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 Ao Po Grand 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 than 600 Sqm usable building area, 3 bedrooms, guest apartment, maid quarters, games room, 10 meter 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 081 343 0777 and Russian call Valentina 082 794 1200. 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

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

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. thephuketnews

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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

PROPERTY FOR SALE 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

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.

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

Modern home office for sale

Modern home office for sale located 400 m fr Central Intersection. 1 Unit has 1 commercial, 1 living space, 4 bedrooms & built-in bathrooms. Owner, thip_june19@yahoo.com, 087 543 4716.

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.

Sale by owner Apartment ‘The Pearl of Naithon’ Leasehold

Total area 226,66 SQM including terrace 41,25 Sqm, 50 meters from the beach, 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms, Owner purchased at THB 22.5 million, now reduced to only THB 11.5 million for quick sales. MP + 66 (0) 89 814 1458.

MAI KHAO LAND

Beachfront land in Mai Khao. East coast. 3 rai 2 ngan 24sqw. For sale: 45 million baht. 45 million. @thephuketnews

PROPERTY FOR SALE Waterfront Condominium

The Cleat Condo, residence project in Krabi Boat Lagoon Marina. Price 3-9MB, size 37-119 Sq.M., 1 or 2 bedroom, marina view. For rent/sale. marketing@phuketpropertytrip.com

PROPERTY FOR RENT Large apartment for rent

For family 130 spm. in Rawai. 2 Bedrooms, 1 bathroom, kitchen, fully furnished. Available from Dec 2016. For 1 year contract 29,000Baht/month. Contact Duangjai, 080 146 1393.

Bedroom in shared house-Kathu

Near Kajonkiet Inter school, Loch Palm, close to Central, Big C, Tesco. Inclusive:WiFi, water, electricity, use of kitchen, washing machine. Month by month agreement with some deposit. Bedsheet + pillows provided.

4000 THB/month, 089 600 0041.

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.

Apartment for rent

Quality 1 Bedroom serviced apartment 65sqm for rent. Central Patong.

Short or long term. For details email ianscondo21@gmail.com

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.

Kathu Condo forSale/Rent

36 Sqm Fully Furnished with Pool & Fitness. Rent start 9,000 monthly.

Close to Patong, Central Festival Phuket and Prince of Songkla University. Lily Line ID: 0841094466, flyfreelily@gmail. com, 084 109 4466.

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.

2 BDR Bungalow, Nai Harn Beach

For rent with “Free UBC Platinum cable TV”, security, air-con, fridge, stove, quiet area, at end of cul-de-sac, 12,500 per month. Call 098 017 8818 or 087 884 8972.

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, DECEMBER 16, 2016

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

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FREEHOLD APARTMENT IN PRIME LOCATION, Nai Harn 2, bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 141 sqm

8,500,000 THB

Nestled next to the lake just a few hundred meters from Nai Harn Beach, location does not get much better. Completed in 1999 this complex offers a quiet and private communal swimming pool.

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

SPACIOUS STUDIO OVEROOKING POOL, Layan

REFURBISHED FREEHOLD CONDO, Kamala

This leasehold studio offers a spacious terrace, open and bright. The colonial style development is very well maintained with lots of greenery, swimming pool, kid’s pool and outdoor seating areas. Must-see development.

Located hillside in Kamala with good common areas including 2 pools, reception and gym. With furniture included this apartment represents one of the best valued freehold properties on the West Coast.

LUXURY OCEANFRONT VILLA, Cape Yamu

LAKEFRONT VILLA IN GREAT CONDITION, Laguna

Studio, 1 bathroom, 57 sqm

4,900,000 THB

N M ew ar to ke t

2,500,000 THB

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 99 sqm

95,000,000 THB

Exclusive to fazwaz.com this beautiful pool villa is set on a 4000 sqm land plot and located in one of Phuket’s most exclusive areas. Sold unfurnished enabling a new owner to out their final touch on the finishing.

to se h lo ac C Be

FREEHOLD 2-BEDROOM APARTMENT, Karon 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 156 sqm

10,700,000 THB

On offer is a spacious 2-bedroom apartment. Just a few minutes from the sandy Karon Beach, this property is ideal both for residential use and a as holiday home. Excellent location at 68,000 THB per SQM

4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 490 sqm

Situated on a lake front 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!

35,000,000 THB

re Pr du ice ce d

6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 1343 sqm

TOP FLOOR SPACIOUS APARTMENT, Kamala

3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 115 sqm

Surrounded by jungle and a waterfall 100 meters away, this apartment features vaulted ceilings with skylight windows. Wonderful of the common area pool and mountains. Reduced from 4.5m THB to facilitate a quick sale.

3,200,000 THB

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

PROPERTY 35

S th tep e s be fro ac m h

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

SEAVIEW CONDO NEAR COMPLETION, Patong 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 32 sqm

2,700,000 THB

Hotel operated investment condo offering a 7 % net guarantee for 15 years 4 weeks free owners use. Construction well under way, there are limited sea view units available at this time.

SEAVIEW 6-BEDROOM POOL VILLA, Layan 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 1003 sqm

A unique 6-bedroom with an ideal location with Layan Beach right across the quiet road. Successful rental property and maintained to a very high standard

45,000,000 THB

e ic ed Pr uc d re

FREEHOLD SEAVIEW PENTHOUSE, Surin 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 262 sqm

11,500,000 THB

Measuring 162 sqm internally with a wonderful roof terrace with Jacuzzi, BBQ and seating area. Just a short walk from Bang Tao and Surin Beach, the condominium has a proven track-record of netting 1.1m THB through rentals.

BRAND-NEW FREEHOLD STUDIO, Surin 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 30 sqm

2,700,000 THB

Prime location in walking distance to Bang Tao and Surin Beach. Completed beginning of 2016, the complex provides a communal rooftop pool with sea views and state of the art gym facilities.

FREEHOLD APARTMENT NEAR OCEAN, Patong 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. 87 sqm

Excellent location between Kalim and Patong Beach, the spacious apartment was recently renovated to a high standard. Rents out at a high occupancy rate.

8,900,000 THB

HIGH QUALITY POOL VILLA, Cherng Talay 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 235 sqm

Situated within a gated community of 15 villas with full management services available. Large open living/dining room, spacious salt water pool and lovely sala which provides a hide away from the dazzling sun.

14,000,000 THB

nt lle e ce lu Ex Va

FREEHOLD 3-BED DUPLEX, Bang Tao

3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 216 sqm

9,800,000 THB

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Unique opportunity to own a townhouse style condominium under a freehold title. Great location by between main shopping amenities and Bang Tao Beach with the new Catch Beach Club a few minutes away.

GOLF COURSE POOL VILLA, Kathu 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 256 sqm

Well-priced pool villa with views of Loch Palm golf course. Open plan living area and 3 well-appointed bedrooms, two of which are facing the pool deck.

9,900,000 THB

36 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

BISP U15 Boys win Dirty Nellies go 2nd in PPL 4th Phuket Int’l Cup POOL

FOOTBALL Simon Ostheimer editor3@classactmedia.co.th

A HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run #1611 : Saturday December 17 Run Start Time: 3:30pm Hares: Lucky Lek, Gorgeous You W, What-a-rat Location: Koh Sirey Directions: From Phuket Town travel across the bridge to Koh Sirey and turn right at the clock roundabout.

Continue on for 300 metres and then turn left into Soi Ninhat 1 and continue up the hill to laager.

Bus pick-up: Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 1:45pm Patong @ E xpat Hotel: 2:15pm More info: phuket-hhh.com

fter impressive results at the 2016 BISP Soccer Sevens hosted at British International School, Phuket (BISP), where the home teams won three titles, the U13 and U15 Boys BISP Cruzeiro High Performance teams were in action again over the weekend of Dec 2-4 playing in the 4th Phuket International Cup. Hosted at the Thanyapura Sports Centre, this 11-aside tournament featured teams from Japan, Malaysia, Australia, Singapore and Thailand.

BISP Cruzeiro Football Academy Head Coach Jonathas Candido said, “Both BISP Cruzeiro teams performed admirably, and we are pleased with the results especially because we played using younger players to give to them game experience.”

The BISP Cruzeiro U13s finished in 2nd place after a tense final game where they tied 1-1, only losing on penalties.

The BISP Cruzeiro U15 and U13 High Performance teams.

“The U15s had a very challenging tournament,” said Coach Jonathas. “Their biggest obstacle was managing and responding to the physical nature of play in the tournament. But after playing a great game in the final, the win was well deserved.

“Both BISP Cr uzeiro teams played to their established game plan and tried to dominate by playing at a swift pace,” he said.

In addition to winning the U15 title and runner-up in the U13s, BISP Cruzeiro’s U15 player from Brazil, Andre Piterman, was named best player in the competition, while Nicolai Skoglund won

the Golden Boot Trophy as top scorer.

“The sportsmanship and commitment from all the players was outstanding and the tournament was carried out in a professional atmosphere,” said BISP Cruzeiro Football Academy Goalkeeping Coach Fred Bragaglia.

“Overall this was a wonderful learning experience for our students,” said Coach Candido, “and the boys are looking forward to applying the lessons learned in future competitions.”

For more information about football at BISP visit: www. bisphuket.ac.th/football

DIRTY NELLIES WENT up to 2nd place in the Patong Pool League (PPL) following last Thursday’s (Dec 8) games after they romped to a 10-1 at home to Green Mango. Green Mango sit 2nd to bottom after picking up just two points so far this season.

But it’s 1Bar who continue to lead the table, and score big, following an easy 10-1 win at home to Happy End Bar. But this game also produced the surprise of the night when 1Bar’s Goh, who has already represented Thailand twice in Las Vegas, lost his singles game. A very rare event indeed.

Meanwhile, the most exciting game last Thursday was between Wet Dreams and Caddyshack, Kathu.

Wet Dreams were 1-5 down after the singles round, a round which saw Steve from Wet Dreams being 7-balled

by Tony from Caddyshack, and then 1-6 after the first doubles game. However, Wet Dreams managed to bring the final score to 5-6 and keep them just 6 points off league leaders 1Bar. Elsewhere, Simon and Oils took a good 8-3 win at home to

Justin from Caddyshack, Kathu in action against Wet Dreams.

Ting Tong Bar, Martin Swiss lost 4-7 at home to Genius Bar, Cool Hand Lukes took a good 3-8 win away to Champs Bar, while San Sabai Sports Bar had the week off as they were set to play league dropouts Min Bar. Last night’s (Dec 15) action will be the last round of 2016 as the league goes into a three week break for the Christmas and New Year period. The league will recommence on January 5.

League Standings 1Bar Dirty Nellies Wet Dreams Cool Hand Lukes Genius Simon & Oils Caddyshack (Kathu) Ting Tong Happy Ending San Sabai Martin Swiss Champs Bar Green Mango Min Bar

21 15 15 14 14 12 11 9 7 5 4 3 2 0

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

10 Mile Int’l Run set for March 2017 return ATHLETICS

The Phuket News editor3@classactmedia.co.th

T

Kenyan Geoffrey Birgen won the men’s event in 2015 with a race time of 50min 10sec.

hanyapura Phuket, in cooperation with Supersports, Thailand’s leading sports retailer, will hold 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 and will feature four running distances and categories: • The signature 10 mile run includes five age categories starting from age 15 • The 5 mile run is open to participants aged 12 and older • The 2 mile open run for runners of all ages • 500 metre fun run for young runners up to 12 years old The race date is set for March 19, 2017, with the first competitors kicking off the run at 6am. The award ceremony is set for 7:30am.

Competitors of the 5 and 10 mile races will receive

@thephuketnews

a race kit which includes a T-shirt and BiB number, and a commemorative medal at the end of the ceremony. The top three finishers of the 10 and 5 mile categories will be awarded a trophy.

The top three overall Thai and international winners of the 10 mile run are rewarded cash prizes. The total prize pool is valued at B110,000.

Registration fee starts at: • B450 for the fun run (B400 for teams) • B450 for 2 mile run (B400

for teams) • B500 for 5 Mile run (B450 for teams) • B600 for 10 Mile run (B550 for teams) • An early bird discount applies for registrations before January 10, 2017.

• Interested persons are encouraged to register online at www.Supersports.co.th, www.thanyapura.com or by contacting events@thanyapu ra.com for more information.

The race will take runners through Phuket’s beautiful lush settings, stunning sunrises,

and back roads on the island’s northern point.

The unique race is inspired by track and field’s earliest days in ancient Greece, when Olympians measured contested races in feet and miles.

This method gave runners a chance to achieve a personal best over another distance.

This year’s sponsors include New Balance, Johnson Health Tech (Thailand), Krungthai Card Public Co. Ltd (KTC), Family Mart, 89.75 Radio Trip, Khao Phuket and Anda Focus.

SPORT 37

Youngsters are too good for the old guns BOWLS IT WAS THAT TIME OF the year again when the old guns (O60s) faced the youngsters (U60s) in the annual end of year match based on the well-tested Pryder Cup format.

First up were the two “fours” matches, and, as in the Pryder Cup, all the line ups and lanes were selected in secret by the captains.

The holders of the trophy and favourites were the youngsters, but maybe an element of complacency crept in as after the fours they found themselves 0-2 down.

This wake up call prompted the youngsters into some serious strategic moves with lane and team selections prior to the four pairs matches, and having correctly anticipated the veterans moves they sneaked the pairs 2.5 to 1.5 to be only one point behind heading into the singles games.

With just seven bowlers remaining for each side, the seven points available for the singles would prove critical.

In the first group of three matches the youngsters “top loaded” their line up and this

Mike Cousens (left) hands the trophy to victorious captain of the youngsters U60s team Colin Johnson. looked to be a master stroke as they steam rolled their way to a clean sweep and take a seemingly impregnable 5.5 to 3.5 lead into the final four matches.

However, their nerves were jangling as the vets smashed it in three of the last four games very quickly so that everything hung on the match between the two captains, Colin Johnson and Mike Cousens, coincidentally the last match in progress. As the vets now led by 6.5 to 5.5 all eyes were on that match.

Unfortunately for the vets, Colin’s stamina and strength proved conclusive as he wore Mike out with a succession of long ends to ensure his team gained the point that gave them the draw that was good enough to salvage a draw and retain the trophy.

38 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM England’s An thony Joshua celebrates beating USA’s Eric Molina during the IBF World Heavyweight Championship boxing match in Manchester, north-west England last Saturday (Dec 10). Photo: Paul Ellis/AFP

Brit Joshua can stun Klitschko, says trainer BOXING ANTHONY JOSHUA CAN stun Wladimir Klitschko to become the undisputed world heavyweight champion, according to the British fighter’s trainer Rob McCracken.

Former Olympic gold medallist Joshua linked up with McCracken on a full-time basis before beating Eric Molina in a second successful defence of his IBF heavyweight title last Saturday (Dec 10).

McCracken looked on as Joshua stopped Molina within three rounds at Manchester Arena, with promoter Eddie Hearn swiftly announcing a deal had been struck for the Briton and Klitschko to meet in a unification showdown at Wembley Stadium on April 29.

Convinced Joshua, 27, can topple giant Ukrainian Klitschko, who will be 41 by the time the fight takes place, McCracken told BBC Radio

Five Live: “Klitschko’s beaten big punchers before, but I think Anthony’s more than a big puncher.

“Anthony can box, can move well, has great balance.

Speed is the key as well when you have his speed, they don’t see the punches coming.

And that will be the plan for Klitschko, that Klitschko just can’t avoid or defend what’s coming from Anthony.

“Without a doubt he can knock anybody out. If he hits them hard enough, he will without a doubt knock them out.

“He’s looking forward to it. He’s enjoying his boxing.

The tests lie ahead but he’s in a great place and we’re more than confident that he’ll beat Klitschko.

“My gut feeling and my experience tells me he’s the real deal and I think he’s more than capable of becoming undisputed heavyweight champion.”

AFP

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Smith says one pink-ball Ashes Test will be enough CRICKET AFP editor3@classactmedia.co.th

A

ustralia captain Steve Smith threw his support behind next year’s day-night Ashes Test against England on Wednesday (Dec 14) – but said one was enough for the series.

Both Smith and his England counterpart Alastair Cook had previously called for the Ashes Tests, which have no problem attracting fans, to keep their traditional timing.

The Aussie skipper had no reservations after the announcement that Adelaide would host the first ever pinkball Ashes Test, but he said one game under floodlights was enough.

“I’m happy with just the one,” said Smith, ahead of yesterday’s series opener against Pakistan, which will be the maiden day-night Test at Brisbane’s Gabba ground.

“I think crowds, TV ratings and things like that are never an issue in the Ashes.

“You can just look and see how the last two Adelaide Tests have gone, they’ve been great spectacles, just good games of cricket.

“I think it’s great that

The change in the colour of the thread used for the seam, from green to black, has vastly improved the visibility of the pink Kookaburra ball. Photo: AFP we’re going to play an Ashes pink-ball Test there next year.

“I’m happy for it to just stay with one.”

Australia hosted the first day-night Test, using a pink ball for better visibility under floodlights, in Adelaide last year in what turned out to be a groundbreaking success for the flagging, five-day format.

Aust ralia also played South Africa under lights in their recent Test series, and Pakistan faced the West Indies in a day-night Test in Dubai in October.

England will get pinkball experience ahead of

next year’s Ashes when they host their first day-night Test against the West Indies at Edgbaston in August.

Meanwhile, Smith also said Australia’s current player pay dispute was not on his mind heading into the Brisbane Test against Pakistan.

Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketers’ Association had two days of talks this week over a new five-year agreement, but said discussions were “ongoing”.

ACA wants to keep the current system, in which the players’ pay pool comes from a percentage of CA revenue

and which has been in place since 1997.

“I’m worrying about this Test match. With Wahab Riaz charging in bowling 150kmh, the last thing I want to be thinking about is whether I’m getting paid too much or anything like that,” said Smith.

“At the moment I’m leaving the ACA (players union) to handle that, speaking with Cricket Australia. I know both of them want the right thing for cricket going forward.

“I’m sure we’ll come to an agreement.”

Murray brothers named ITF World Champions TENNIS ANDY MURRAY CAPPED a stellar season by being named alongside his brother Jamie on Tuesday (Dec 13) as International Tennis Federation (ITF) World Champion for 2016.

It is the first time that two brothers have been named as

men’s singles and doubles World Champions in the same year.

Angelique Kerber won the women’s award becoming Germany’s first World Champion since Steffi Graf in 1996.

Andy Murray sealed the year-end number one ranking after defeating Novak Djokovic to win the ATP World Tour Finals.

The 29-year-old won a total of nine titles during the year, including a second Wimbledon crown and a second Olympic singles gold in Rio. “It means a lot to me to be named ITF World Champion,” said Murray.

“I have had such a memorable year, winning again at Wimbledon, retaining my Olympic title, and clinching

the year-end No. 1 ranking in the last match of the season.

“It is particularly special with my brother Jamie also becoming World Champion.”

Kerber, 28, defeated Serena Williams to capture the Australian Open, before winning the US Open, and silver at the Olympics.

Andy’s brother Jamie and Bruno Soares of Brazil were

Britain’s Andy Murray (left) and Jamie Murray were named International Tennis Federation World Champion for 2016. Photo: Andy Buchanan/AFP named men’s doubles World Champions, while French pair Caroline Garcia and Kristina

Mladenovic won the women’s doubles award.

AFP

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

SPORT 39

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Guardiola struggles

City slump leaves Pep with big challenge 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 December 2016 will receive a B3,000 voucher to spend at any of the island's Two Chefs outlets.

AFP editor3@classactmedia.co.th

EPL PREDICTIONS

P

ep Guardiola faces one of the biggest challenges of his glittering managerial career as the Manchester City boss tries to stop his side’s surprising slump.

As Guardiola paced the touchline during last Saturday’s (Dec 10) chastening 4-2 defeat at Leicester, the exasperated Spaniard’s message to his players appeared to fall on deaf ears as the hosts ran rings around his bewildered team.

It was a shocking sight for City fans who had expected Guardiola to bring the swaggering style that won him plaudits and prizes in equal measure during his spells at Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

Less than three months

MONTHLY STANDINGS (SEPT) 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is struggling to turn his side’s fortunes around. Photo: Oli Scarff/AFP ago it was easy to imagine Guardiola would soon be making room for more medals in his packed trophy cabinet as free-scoring City reeled

*Times may be subject to change

START STOP

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

Test Match 5, Chennai

India v. England, Day 1

Friday December 16 Cricket Cricket

10:00

18:00

10:00

18:00 Test Match 1, Brisbane

Australia v. Pakistan, Day 2

18:00

01:00 Test Match 1, Brisbane

Australia v. Pakistan, Day 2 (R)

Saturday December 17 Rugby Union 18:55

21:00

Champions Cup

Bourdeaux v. Exeter

21:10

23:00

Champions Cup

Leicester v. Munster

23:25

01:15

Champions Cup

Connacht v. Wasps

Soccer

Cricket

19:30

21:30

EPL

Crystal Palace v. Chelsea

22:00

00:00

EPL

Stoke v. Leicester

22:00

00:00

EPL

West Ham v. Hull

22:00

00:00

EPL

Middlesbrough v. Swansea

22:00

00:00

EPL

Sunderland v. Watford

00:30

02:30

EPL

West Bromwich v. Man United

10:00

18:00

Test Match 5, Chennai

10:00

18:00 Test Match 1, Brisbane

Australia v. Pakistan, Day 3

18:00

01:00 Test Match 1, Brisbane

Australia v. Pakistan, Day 3 (R)

India v. England, Day 2

Sunday December 18 Rugby Union 18:55

20:55

Champions Cup

Scarlets v. Toulon

21:10

23:00

Champions Cup

Clermont v. Ulster

20:30

22:30

EPL

Bournemouth v. Southampton

23:00

01:00

EPL

Man City v. Arsenal

22:55

01:00

EPL

Tottenham v. Burnley

10:00

18:00

Test Match 5, Chennai

10:00

18:00 Test Match 1, Brisbane

Australia v. Pakistan, Day 4

18:00

01:00 Test Match 1, Brisbane

Australia v. Pakistan, Day 4 (R)

Soccer

Cricket

@thephuketnews

Aays gamagan Gracie toptipster AORYS BAR

OVERALL STANDINGS

15 14 14 14 13

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

scottkip The Red Card Gang adamrosindale Sidwell Guduka TC

87 86 84 84 84

English Premier League 2016 - 2017

Live Sports TV Schedule SPORT

MONTHLY SPONSOR

MAIN SPONSOR

India v. England, Day 3

off 10 successive wins in all competitions.

Yet that blistering start has proved something of a false dawn for Guardiola, whose arrival from Bayern in pre-season for his first experience of English football was heralded as the start of another dominant period for the serial silverware collector.

Having won three Spanish league titles and two Champions League crowns with Barca and then led Bayern to three Bundesliga triumphs, few were willing to bet against Guardiola conquering the Premier League in similar fashion.

Any doubters wondering how the 45-year-old would cope with having to rebuild an ageing and underachieving City squad in a league far stronger from top to bottom than those he dominated in Spain and Germany were widely dismissed by his advocates.

But there are growing signs that Guardiola isn’t going to find his City experiment all plain sailing.

The first cracks appeared in a 3-3 draw against a pas-

sionate but painfully limited Celtic in the Champions League and those defensive flaws were laid bare by Tottenham a few days later as Guardiola suffered his first City defeat.

Guardiola’s response has been unexpectedly flustered.

He has constantly tinkered with his team line-up, making an incredible 46 changes in City’s first 14 league games – 12 more than any other manager in the top flight this season.

All the alterations have left City badly lacking continuity, chemistry and coherence, with the result that they fall apart all too soon once events conspire against them.

Kevin De Bruyne, the brilliant Belgian playmaker, has been used as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder, winger and a striker as Guardiola searches for his best role.

In defence, centre-backs John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi have looked baffled by what Guardiola asks of them and, while that doesn’t reflect well on the players, it is also a manager’s job to extract

Team

MP W

D

L

F

A GD Pts

1

Chelsea

15

12

1

2

33

11

22

37

2

Arsenal

16

10

4

2

37

17

20

34

3

Liverpool

15

9

4

2

37

20

17

31

4

Manchester City

15

9

3

3

32

19

13

30

5

Tottenham Hotspur

15

7

6

2

24

11

13

27

6

Manchester United

15

6

6

3

20

16

4

24

7

Everton

16

6

5

5

21

20

1

23

8

Bournemouth

16

6

3

7

22

25

-3

21

-5

21

9

Watford

15

6

3

6

21

26

10

West Brom

15

5

5

5

20

18

2

20

11

Southampton

15

5

5

5

14

15

-1

20

12

Stoke City

15

5

4

6

17

22

-5

19

13

Burnley

15

5

2

8

15

25 -10

17

14

Leicester City

16

4

4

8

21

27

-6

16

15

Crystal Palace

15

4

3

8

27

29

-2

15

16

Middlesbrough

15

3

6

6

13

16

-3

15

17

West Ham United

15

3

4

8

17

31 -14

13

18

Swansea City

15

3

3

9

19

31 -12

12

19

Hull City

15

3

3

9

14

32 -18

12

20

Sunderland

15

3

2

10

14

27 -13

11

maximum performance from the tools at his disposal.

Against Leicester, he went with a three-man defence comprised of Stones and two full-backs in Bacary Sagna and Aleksandar Kolarov.

Unsurprisingly, the makeshift line-up was brutally exposed by the pace and direct running of Leicester striker Jamie Vardy, who feasted on City’s confusion to end his goal drought with a hat-trick.

City had kept just two clean sheets in 15 league games, yet Guardiola gave a curious response when asked if his players needed to work on tackling after being beaten

to the punch time and again

by Leicester.

“It’s typical here in England when they talk a lot about the tackles. I’m not a coach for the tackles. So I don’t train the tackles. What I want is to try to play good, score goals, arrive more,” Guardiola said.

“It’s another aspect of football, but we’re not going to win or lose because of the tackles.”

Guardiola’s commitment to his purist principles is commendable, but on the evidence of the last few weeks he must adapt to the unforgiving Premier League quickly to quash a growing crisis of confidence.

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2016

Another trophy added to BISP’s cabinet > page 36 Lifeguards in action. Photo: Patong Municipality

LIFE SAVING CHAMPIONS

Phuket lifeguards take home three trophies in annual competition

LIFE SAVING Mukdawan Janyaporn & Tanyaluk Sakoot editor3@classactmedia.co.th

T

hree teams or individual representatives from the island’s Phuket’s lifeguard contingency walked away with trophies from the Phuket Surf Life Saving 2016 competition held at Patong Beach last Saturday (Dec 10).

More than one hundred participants from 12 different countries joined the competi-

tion which was held at Patong Beach for the 2nd consecutive year. The 12 countries represented were; Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Indonesia, Philippine, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, India, Vietnam and Thailand.

The competition, which has been created to improve life saving skills and techniques, included several segments namely: Swim Race, Beach Sprint, Board Race, Tube Rescue Team, Beach Flags, Board Rescue, Beach Relay and Phuket Rescue Relay.

The first of the Phuket lifeguards to pick up a trophy was the Kuaymai (Orchid) Team based at Nai Thon Beach in the Youth Female Team event.

The winner of the Male Youth Team event was team Zambales from the Philippines.

Next up on the podium for Phuket was Chonthida Nontree, based at Nai Harn Beach, who took the title for the IronWoman U18 category. The winner in the IronMan U18 category was again Zambale from the Philippines.

Lastly, it was Le Meridien,

Phuket who scooped the final trophy for Phuket romping home in the Open Male Team event. The winner in the Open Female Team event was Green Power from Phuket’s neighbouring province, Krabi.

Following the success of the Phuket lifeguard teams, Phu ket Lifeg uard Chief Prathaiyuth Chuayuan told The Phuket News, “This year the competition received such a good response, it was far more than what I ever expected. A total of 175 participants from 12 countries eventually regis-

tered to take part in this year’s competition which was held from 9am-4pm last Saturday.

“To be honest, I only expected 100 people to enter, but there were lots of participants, the number quickly increased to the final tally of 175,” he said.

“There were numerous winners in various competition categories and those included Youth Female Team, Youth Male Team, Open Female Team, Open Male Team, IronMan U18, IronWoman U18, Open IronMan and Open

IronWoman.

“With regards to how Phuket fared in the competition, we done very well overall, perhaps better than I thought we would do.

“I am glad that Phuket’s youth participants took home the trophy for the best Youth Female Team and IronWoman U18 because the Phuket Lifeguard Service has trained them. I am really proud of them as winners, but also for the other Phuket lifeguards just for taking part,” Chief Prathaiyuth added.

thephuketnews