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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER FOUNDED IN MARCH 2001 - PATTAYA'S FRIENDLIEST EXPAT CLUB
MEETING EVERY SUNDAY FOR TEN YEARS
July 29, 2011
CONTENTS
(click on the topic to go direct)
Sunday’s Meeting Program General Announcements Club Announcements
What’s Happening In and Around Pattaya
Last Week’s Meeting
Other Club Information in the Newsletter
( ♦ denotes that this section has been updated in this issue)
Club Membership Club Activities Club Services
Club Benefits Member Supported Charities Health Issues
Dining Out
WHERE DO WE MEET?
Everyone is welcome to attend. The Club meets every Sunday morning at The Tavern by the Sea, on the
ground of the Amari Orchid Resort and Tower (formerly known as Henry J. Bean‘s Bar & Grill). It is
located near the North end of Beach Road. Click here for a map showing the Henry J. Bean‘s Bar &
Grill (still the same location, just a different name).
BREAKFAST BUFFET AVAILABLE
A buffet breakfast is available from 9:30 am to 11:00am with coffee service starting at 9:00am. The
program begins at 10:30 am and concludes around noon. Remember to obtain your coffee or tea refills
before the pots are removed at 11:00 am. The Club has met at this location for several years now with its
pleasant laid back and informal atmosphere - which the Amari Hotel allows us to use without charge.
Please support our continued use of these facilities by purchasing the full buffet or, if you do not
want a full breakfast, at least the toast and coffee or tea.
For more information about the Club – email [email protected] or visit
www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com. You can also subscribe to the Newsletter and it will be emailed to you
each week.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
This Sunday’s Meeting Program
What one of many praiseworthy reviews said
about Cold Hit, by Christopher G. Moore:
―Calvino is a wonderful private
detective figure! Consistent action,
masterful language . . .and Anglo-Saxon
humour at its best.‖ —Lutz Bunk,
DeutschlandRadio, Berlin
Likewise, some review comments about his
Paying Back Jack:
―Hard-boiled mystery laced
with humor.... A pulse-
pounding tale of human
trafficking, mercenaries,
international conspiracies
and revenge... made more
real because they are set
against the lovely and
sordid streets of Bangkok."
—"In the Know" at WCVPL (Warren
County-Vicksburg Public Library,
Mississippi)
―A rich panorama of east meets west. This
time round Calvino is drawn into the murky
world of private prisons, political
assassination and UN officialdom....
Whether you try it for the exotic setting, the
hard-boiled hero or the intrigue and action,
you won't be disappointed. And you'll be
back for more!." —Chris Bilkey, Crime
Buzz
Christopher G. Moore has written 12 books in
his Vincent Calvino series about a private
detective and his exploits in Bangkok and
Thailand. Who is Vincent Calvino? Why did
Christopher choose this particular character to
write about? How does he come up with the
stories for each of his Calvino novels?
Come to this Sunday‘s meeting and find out.
Christopher will be our guest speaker and he
will be answering these questions. Christopher
has spoken to the Club on previous occasions
and he is always an interesting speaker with a
story to tell.
Christopher is a Canadian writer who once
taught law at the University of British
Columbia. After his first book His Lordship’s
Arsenal was published in New York to critical
acclaim in 1985, he became a full-time writer
and has so far written 22 novels, a non-fiction
and one collection of inter-locked short stories.
He is probably best known by his cult classics,
Land of Smiles Trilogy, his behind-the-smiles
study of his adopted country, Thailand, and his
highly popular Vincent Calvino Private Eye
series.
Macleans has best summarized his work
saying: ―Moore‘s noir thriller and literary
fiction—like Graham Greene, he alternates
between ‗entertainment‘ and serious novels—
are subtle and compelling evocations of a part
of the world rarely seen through our eyes.‖
Gore Vidal said of the Land of Smiles Trilogy:
―The whole effect is very real—particularly the
revelation of those razor teeth back of the
Smile.‖ In Thailand, where Moore has lived
for the past two decades, the Bangkok Post
said, ―To paraphrase Graham Greene in another
context, Moore is our man in Bangkok.‖
We will have the usual announcements of
upcoming events in and around Pattaya,
updates on club activities, and last, but not the
least, there will be an Open Forum , which is
the time for you to ask questions about living in
Thailand, or Pattaya. We ask you to offer your
own observations and suggestions on how to
live better in Pattaya. Your humorous stories
(jokes) are welcome, but remember you are in
mixed company. Whether you are a new Expat,
just visiting on holiday, or consider yourself an
"old hand" at being an Expat in Thailand, you
will find the Open Forum has humor and
helpful information to offer.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
General Announcements
The following announcements are of general interest to most Expats and Foreign Visitors to Thailand
AMARI WINE EXPERIENCE WILL BE TODAY- FRIDAY, JULY 29 – The Wine Experience
for this month will feature wines from France - both red and white - with complimentary canapés and
special foods in the French style to complement the wines. This always enjoyable monthly event will
be at the Garden Lounge of the Amari Resort (just behind the Main Wing) if the weather is good, or
may be moved to the Ocean Tower Ice Bar if not. The Wine Experience is available from 6:30pm to
8:30pm (sometimes later) usually held on the last Friday of each month. The PCEC has many
members who are regulars at what they believe to be one of the best wine offerings in Pattaya. While
the regular price is 750 Baht, PCEC members, by showing their membership card, receive a 15%
discount, making the total cost 638 Baht for a constant stream of good wines, complementary food
and a chance to enjoy friendly discussions with fellow members. And, as a PCEC member, your
friends can also receive the discount if you are the one paying for their entry. Reservations for PCEC
members and their guests are not required. If you have a group of six or more please call the Amari
for a reservation. For questions or more information, please call Richard at 038-412-197, or 089-244-
9523. For reservations for large groups, please call the Amari at 038-418418.
THAI LAW SEMINAR FOR FOREIGNERS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24 – This seminar on
Thai law, in English, is a cooperative effort between the Provencal Court, City Hall and the Mayor. It
is designed specifically for foreigners, and will be MC‘d by fellow member and past Club Chairman
Drew Noyes, Editor of the Pattaya Times. The representatives from the Provencal Court who will
speak at the seminar are all graduates of Universities in England or the United States and Thai
Universities. The Seminar is to take place in the Pattaya Room, on the top floor of City Hall from
1pm to 4pm. The government believes that the information the speakers will present will help
foreigners understand the differences in Thai Law that may be important to them; especially those
laws which may be significantly different than the law in the foreigners‘ home country. We have
been advised that there will be time reserved for questions and answers. Copies of the Seminar
Announcement will be available at Sunday‘s Meeting. If you are interested in attending, please list
yourself on the Law Seminar sign-up sheet.
ARTS FOR THE PLANET 2011 AT THE AMARI’S ICE BAR – Now through August 7, the
ONYX Hospitality Group will be presenting on display a selection of paintings from this year‘s live
painting competition in Bangkok and Phuket in conjunction with Earth Day 2011 at the Amari‘s Ice
Bar. This annual project is to engage the younger generation and foster critical thinking about key
environmental issues. All paintings are available for sale to raise funds to support the education of
underprivileged children through Amari‘s Baht for a Better Life program.
AMARI’S CHARITY PEACH CHOCOLATE CAKE FOR MOTHER’S DAY -- To honor Her
Majesty the Queen on her birthday, the Amari Orchard Pattaya will be presenting their Peach
Chocolate Cake (79 meters) at Central Center Pattaya on 11th
- 14th
of August from 10am - 8pm. The
Queen‘s birthday is also Thailand‘s Mothers Day. There will also be a product exhibition by The
Royal Project, exciting shows on stage from students of various Pattaya schools, traditional Thai
music contest, and young talent entertainer contest, all part of the fun and entertainment festivities.
Beginning in August, you can place your order and the Amari will deliver it to your office in
Pattaya. After deduction of costs, all funds raised will be donated to the Amari Orchid Pattaya‘s Baht
for a Better Life charity which helps children from under privileged backgrounds and local school
projects. The price is Baht 790 per meter or Baht 70 per piece for this delicious cake.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
FREE PIZZA FOR MOM DURING AUGUST – The Havana Bar & Terrazzo is offering a free
complimentary pizza of your choice during August for all mothers dining with their children. It is
located on beach Road next to the Holiday Inn Pattaya. For more information and reservation please
call 038-725-555 or visit www.dining-experience.com/pattaya and
www.facebook.com/HavanaBar.Pattaya. Their hours are Monday – Thursday from 2pm to midnight
and from 12 noon to midnight on Friday to Sunday.
PUBLIC HOLIDAY ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 12 – This is Her Majesty the Queen‘s birthday. It is
celebrated throughout Thailand and is also considered to be Thailand‘s Mothers Day. Government
Offices including Immigration and main bank branches will be closed.
CHONBURI (PATTAYA) IMMIGRATION OFFICE NEWS – We are posting the latest news on
changes or other items of interest that we have on the Chonburi (Pattaya) Immigration Office
operations on the Club‘s Website. You can read these announcements by going to the Club‘s
website: http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/announcements.pdf. Under contents,
select Club Announcements.
U.S. EMBASSY BANGKOK NEWS – The Embassy‘s American Citizen Service (ACS) unit is
taking its first into the realm of social media. Now, in addition to their email address and website,
they can interact with you in almost real time on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/ACSBKK.
DENGUE FEVER OUTBREAK WARNING – The Nation Newspaper reports that the Public
Health Ministry warns of a Dengue fever outbreak as there have been more than 20,000 cases in the
past 6 months leading to 13 deaths. The continued seasonal rainfall this year has increased the
number of mosquitoes carrying the dengue virus that causes Dengue Hemorrhagic fever. Those most
at risk to develop severe symptoms are the elderly and children under one year of age. Dengue is
caused by Aedes Aegypti, a common household mosquito. We have posted more information
including a member‘s firsthand experience with dengue fever in the General Interest section of the
website: http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/DENGUE_FEVER.pdf. Know the
symptoms and seek medical advice if you or a family member have them is recommended.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
Club Announcements
The following announcements are of particular interest to Club members regarding Club activities and
benefits
DO YOU USE YAHOO EMAIL? IF SO, YOU MAY NEED TO CHANGE YOUR
PASSWORD -- In April and May, we received several emails that were not sent by the persons
whose address was shown, had no subject, and in the body there was only a link to an Internet site.
The emails had several ―To‖ addressees, which appear to have been taken from the person‘s
address/contents book. We posted a warning back then in several Newsletters and now have it
posted on the website. We still continue to receive such emails periodically with the majority
being from Yahoo email accounts. This past week, we received three such emails; all from Yahoo
email addresses. So we are again suggesting that you may want to change your password if you
have not done so recently.
KEES SPRENGER’S DIGITAL PHOTO TIPS ARE AVAILABLE ON THE WEBSITE – At the
July 17, 2011 meeting, speaker Kees Sprenger presented a list of tips regarding using a digital
camera and photographing indigenous hill tribes in Laos. Those tips are posted on the Club‘s
website at: http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/PhotoTips.pdf.
BOB’S BAR B Q NOW OFFERS 10% DISCOUNT TO CLUB MEMBERS – Last week we
announced that Bob‘s Bar B Q was no longer offering a Frugal Freddy 20 % discount to
members. We have been advised that Bob‘s Bar B Q does offer a 10% discount to Pattaya City
Expat Club Members – just show your membership card.
A GLASS OF WINE & ICE CREAM FOR CLUB MEMBERS AT LOUIS RESTAURANT
IN NAKLUA – Khun Vichai Priyatrakulruji, well known for his Alois Restaurant and Wine Bar,
is also the person behind Louis Restaurant in Naklua. This restaurant was the location of the Club
Members‘ dinner on May 26 - excellent food at very reasonable prices. Khun Vichai at the
Sunday, July 24 meeting announced that upon presentation of your membership card, you can
receive one free glass of either red or white house wine when dining at Louis Restaurant and free
ice cream for dessert. The Announcements section of the Club‘s website is currently showing a
map to the location - http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/announcements.pdf (click
on Club Announcements and scroll down to see the map).
ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLASSES STARTING DATE HAS BEEN DELAYED – The
usual location for the classes at the Mike Shopping Mall is in constant use as a training room for
the owners new hotel – a replacement facility has not yet been located. For more information, go
to the SPECIAL ACTIVITIES section of the Newsletter.
NEXT DRIVING LICENSE ASSISTANCE TRIP SHOULD BE ON WEDNESDAY,
AUGUST 3 – Member Hans (Jon) Stroosnyder usually escorts and assists those interested in
getting a Thai driving license on the first Wednesday of the month, departing from The Tavern by
the Sea restaurant (Club‘s Sunday meeting place) at 9am. If you are interested, please contact
Hans to make sure there is no change or for more information. You can call Hans at 085-218-
1773, or email him at [email protected] . See the Vehicles page for information on the
process and the documents needed.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
LIVING WILL FORMS AVAILABLE ONLINE – The Living Will forms and ―additional
information‖ are now on the Club‘s Website:
http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/living%20will%20form.pdf.
Select the link for Living Will. There are two forms, one in English and the other in Thai. A hard
copy of both forms is available at the Sunday meeting – see Sally.
FRUGAL FREDDY SCHEDULE -- Frugal Freddy schedule for this calendar quarter is posted
here. Select Frugal Freddy under Contents. Please note – this schedule is subject to change. You
should confirm with Hawaii Bob for any last minute changes at [email protected] or
get yourself on his Frugal Freddy mailing list. All Frugal Freddy restaurants give 20% discount to
PCEC members if you mention Frugal Freddy, some may only give 10% discount to your guest
but most of them extend the 20% discount to all people in the group
WE ARE ALWAYS ON THE LOOK OUT FOR INTERESTING SPEAKERS – The Club‘s
Program Committee endeavors to obtain interesting speakers for the Club‘s Sunday meetings.
This can sometimes be a daunting task as we have 52 meetings a year. If you know of someone
with an interesting topic, please let us know along with how to contact them. If you don‘t know a
particular speaker, but have a topic you think will be interesting, then pass it on; we will then try
to find a knowledgeable speaker for the topic. To make suggestions for speakers or topics, please
email [email protected] .
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
What’s happening in and around Pattaya
This is a listing of upcoming events in Pattaya, Bangkok, and elsewhere. Inclusion of commercially
sponsored events does not mean that the PCEC endorses the companies or their products. The events
listed come from various sources. We usually list a telephone number, email address, or website to obtain
additional information about the event. Since the events are subject to cancellation or change, you may
wish to confirm the information before attending the event.
IF YOU KNOW OF ANY UPCOMING EVENT NOT LISTED, PLEASE LET US KNOW SO THAT WE MAY PUBLISH
IT EMAIL THE INFORMATION TO [email protected]
COMING UP THIS WEEK
Friday, July 29 - Paintings from Arts for the Planet continues at the Amari Ice Bar
Friday, July 29 - Amari Wine Experience
Wednesday, August 3 - Driving license trip to Land Transport Office
Friday, August 5 - Pattaya Food & Hotelier Expo begins
UPCOMING BANGKOK EVENTS – Thai Ticket Major has a listing of many upcoming events in
Bangkok. Check their website to see what major events are scheduled.
EVERY TUESDAY, PATTAYA CHESS GROUP – The group meets every Tuesday from 7pm to
11pm in the German restaurant ―Brauhous‖ (2nd
Road between Soi 7 and 8 – opposite soi that goes to
Pattaya Memorial Hospital).
EVERY MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, & FRIDAY - THE PATTAYA BRIDGE CLUB meets at
The Bowling Green, Soi Fuengfa (Soi Xyte), between Soi Boukhao and 3rd Road. They meet at 1pm.
For more information and a map visit their website.
LAST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH - QUIZ NIGHT TO BENEFIT TAKE CARE CHARITY at
Bondi Beach Bar & Guest House, Dongtan Beach. The quizzing starts at 9pm. For more information
visit their website. Bondi also has a Thais4Life Book Stall which is open daily, with books for 80
Baht, all proceeds go to the Thais4Life charities. You can also drop off any unwanted book donations.
AUGUST 5, FRIDAY TO AUGUST 7, SUNDAY - PATTAYA FOOD & HOTELIERS EXPO
2011 – The 5th
annual Expo will take place at the Peach Conference Center at the Royal Cliff Beach
Resort from 10:30am to 6:30pm free of charge. From 6pm to Midnight, the Pattaya Food on The
Beach Show‘11 will have more than 80 booths of delectable recipes from Pattaya and other provinces.
The show including outdoor shows will take place along North Pattaya Beach. For more information,
contact the Pattaya City Call Center at 1337 – then 9 for English operator.
AUGUST 8, MONDAY – TAKE CARE FUND RAISER AT CORNER BAR – The Corner Bar in
Sunee Plaza is sponsoring the fund raiser for Take Care Charity starting at 8pm. For more information
about Take Care, visit their website: http://www.takecarepattaya.com/ There is a 200 Baht entrance
fee which goes to the Charity. It includes your first drink (well drinks, not premium brands). There
will be a Subway sandwich buffet, British guitarists, B-Boys dancers (break dancing group), and a
Lucky Draw.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
AUGUST 13, SATURDAY – A. X. FASSBIND CHARITY MEMORIAL DINNER – The Rotary
Club of Jomtien-Pattaya has extended a public invitation to this dinner at Linda‘s Restaurant, across
Thappraya Road from the Jomtien Complex. The cost is 1,500 Baht net with 500 Baht going to the A.
X. Fassbind Memorial Fund to benefit the Fassbind Medical Home at the Banglamung Home for the
Aged and to support educational scholarships. The dinner is at 7pm and early reservations are
recommended. For reservations, call 087-813-0115 or email [email protected] .
SEPTEMBER 9, FRIDAY & OCTOBER 16, SUNDAY – INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF
DANCE AND MUSIC 2011 (BANKGOK) – This festival offers music, dance, and opera. It is held
at the Thailand Culture Center in Bangkok. For information on all the events, dates, and ticket prices
visit: http://www.thaiticketmajor.com/performance/icp-2011-bangkok-13-th-international-festival-of-
dance-and-music-eng.php In September the highlights are: the fairytale Swan Lake on Ice; three
highly-anticipated ballets (Le Corsaire, Don Quixote, and Mariinsky Ballet Gala) by the legendary
Mariinsky Ballet Company from St. Petersburg accompanied by Mariinsky Symphony Orchestra; and
Introdans - Repertoire Highlights. In October the highlights are: the lovable Flying Superkids
gymnastics team from Denmark; two operas The Tsar’s Bride (a tragedy) and The Marriage of Figaro
(a comedy);and Spain‘s flamenco ambassador to the world, Ballet Nacional de España, who will close
the curtain on this year‘s festival with magnificent passion.
SEPTEMBER 11, SUNDAY – JESTERS CHILDREN’S FAIR – This annual Charity event will be
at Diana Garden Resort. More information on this event will be provided when it becomes available.
Website: http://www.care4kids.info/.
SEPTEMBER 24, SATURDAY – JESTERS GALA PART NIGHT – This annual Charity event
will be at the Amari Orchid Pattaya. More information on this event will be provided when it becomes
available. Website: http://www.care4kids.info/.
SEPTEMBER 24, SATURDAY TO OCTOBER 2, SUNDAY – PTT THAILAND OPEN 2011 –
This tennis tournament attracts some of the World‘s top players. It will be held at Impact Arena,
Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok. Tickets for the PTT Thailand Open will go on sale through all
Thaiticketmajor outlets in July and start at just Bt300. Call 02 262 3838 or log on to
www.pttthailandopen.org or www.thaiticketmajor.com for more details.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
Last Week’s Meeting
After the usual opening announcements at the
Club‘s July 24 meeting, Master of Ceremonies
Richard Silverberg called on fellow member
Gavin Waddell, International Marketing
Executive, with Phayathai Hospital Sriracha.
Before introducing the guest speaker from the
Hospital, Gavin said he wanted everyone to
know that a nurse was available in the back
alcove for free blood pressure checks. He said
our speaker was Dr. Jitlada Imharit, M.D., and
that she was a specialist in colorectal cancer and
other diseases of the stomach and liver. Today,
her talk would be about Colorectal cancer.
Dr. Jitlada said that although there was more
than one type of cancer that can affect the colon,
she would be talking about carcinoma. Around
the world, cancer of the colon and rectum is the
third leading cause of cancer in men and the
fourth leading cause in women. The frequency
varies around the world. It is more common in
the Western world and is rare in Asia and Africa.
In countries where the people have adopted
western diets, the incidence of colorectal cancer
is increasing. She recommended a low fat and
high fiber diet to reduce the risk of colon cancer.
To further reduce the risk, you should quit
smoking and reduce alcohol intake.
Unless you have a family history of colon cancer
or other higher risk factors, it is recommended
that you be screened at age 50. If everybody
aged 50 or older had regular screening tests, as
many as 60% of deaths from colon cancer could
be prevented. Screening saves lives because it
can find precancerous polyps—abnormal
growths in the colon or rectum—so that they can
be removed before turning into cancer. Screening
also helps find colorectal cancer at an early
stage, when treatment often leads to a cure.
About nine out of every 10 people whose
colorectal cancer is found early and treated are
still alive five years later. Polyps are slow
growing, so if you have a colonoscopy and no
polyps were found, you can wait about 10 years
before having another one. However, if polyps
are found and removed, you should have another
colonoscopy in another 3 to 5 years. Dr. Jitlada
described various screening methods, but
explained why a colonoscopy was the most
effective screening method; it also allows during
the procedure for polyps to be removed before
they can become cancerous.
She also said that by the time symptoms appear,
it is already too late as the cancer probably
already exists. These symptoms can be varied
and by themselves may not be the result of
colorectal cancer, but you should be alert for
change in bowel habits, narrow stools, diarrhea
or constipation, red or dark blood in the stool,
weight loss, and abdominal pain. There are other
causes for these symptoms, but if you have them,
you should seek a medical diagnosis. If cancer
is found and it has not spread, the most common
treatment is a resection of the bowels. Patients
that have this surgery can experience long-term
survival in excess of 80%. However, in patients
with advanced colon cancer, wherein the tumor
has penetrated beyond the bowel wall and there
is evidence of metastasis (spreading) to distant
organs, the five-year survival rate is less than
10%. In conclusion, she pointed out that
screening and proper diet is the best preventative
measures.
After Dr. Jitlada answered several questions
from the audience, Richard Silverberg brought
everyone up to date on upcoming events and
called on Roy Albiston to conduct the always
informative and sometime humorous Open
Forum where questions are asked and answered
about Expat living in Thailand,
recommendations for restaurants and movies are
made, and perhaps a joke or two are told.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
Club Membership
Membership is open to all. See Judith Edmonds before or after the meeting program for renewal of your
card, or for a new membership card. For renewal, give Judith your expired card PLUS one recent
photo (3.0cm X 3.4cm). For a new membership, get the application form from Judith or download from
the Club‘s website. Judith will need two small photos (3.0cmX3.5cm) for new applicants.
The annual membership contribution is 400 baht. This contribution funds the Club‘s operations so that it
continues as a non commercial social organization. You may, if you wish, extend your membership
period for a longer period, e.g., 800 Baht for two years, 1,200 for three years, and so on.
In addition to getting priority for periodic excursions and to use the DVD lending library, your
membership will also entitle you to discounts at the Club‘s featured restaurants listed in the Dining Out
section of the Newsletter, at both Bangkok Hospital Pattaya and Phayathai Sriracha Hospital, and other
businesses listed in the Club Benefits section of the Newsletter. Also, as mentioned in the Health Issues
section of the Newsletter, members that qualify can obtain lower cost health insurance through the Club‘s
group health policy.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
Club Activities
The PCEC offers an opportunity for everyone to become involved in mid-week informal groups covering
many interests. If you have an interest or idea to start a new group, please discuss it with a member of the
Governing Board and we will help you publicize it. The groups usually meet as scheduled, but it is always
a good idea to contact the host to be sure of the date, time, and location.
TECHNIQUES OF MIND EXPANSION DISCUSSION GROUP –Meets Mondays at 1pm in
the Markland‘s 3rd garage floor Meeting Room. The meetings are open to anyone who is
interested in exploring the thoughts and words with which you allow your life to be controlled –
and how an understanding of the use of those words can change your life, and people‘s perception
of you. If you have any questions about the Group please contact Bruce at 080-053-6360, or by
email at [email protected] . If you have any questions about how to get to the Markland
or the Meeting Room, please call Richard Smith at 089-244-9523 or 038-412-197.
SPANISH CONVERSATION GROUP - Meets the first and third Wednesdays of the month at
1pm at the Diamond Café located on the corner of South Pattaya Road and Third Road. This is a
newly formed group for those that are interested in practicing their Spanish. For more information,
email Al Serrato at [email protected] ,
FRUGAL FREDDY DINNER GROUP - Eats out weekly on MONDAYS. Your host is Bob
Sutterfield. Their goal is finding good restaurants at very reasonable prices. Bob usually arranges a
20% discount for all in attendance and for those that are PCEC members to receive a similar
discount for future visits to that restaurant, but in addition to showing your membership card, you
also need to tell them you are part of the Frugal Freddy group. Bob says to put your name on the
signup sheet so they can email to you the chosen restaurant and its location. You can also contact
Bob by email to be put on his mailing list or for more information: [email protected] .
GOLFING GROUP – Meets weekly on TUESDAY. John Williams is your host. No
reservations are required. Contact John for information on cost and how to have fun playing
Bingo, Bango, Bongo. Everyone is welcome. John can be contacted by phone at 085-921-3036 or
by emailing him at [email protected] .
THE BREAKFAST GROUP - Weekly on WEDNESDAY starting at 10am. Your Hostess is
Marjorie Blissett. The group meets at the F&B on 2nd Road, opposite the Montien Hotel. A full
breakfast is a very reasonable 100 Baht - and there is parking in the back.
TOUCHY TOPICS GROUP - Weekly on THURSDAY 1pm to 3pm - The format includes
current topics of the week as well as a discussion on a controversial topic selected by the host, a
member, or a guest. The topics are always thought provoking and subject to lively discussion. The
group meets at Shagwell Mansions, across from Carrefour in Soi Arunothai. Contact David
Dallimer at 080-638-3510 or email [email protected] .
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
MEMBERS' DINNER - MONTHLY, usually on a WEDNESDAY during each month. Michel
de Goumois and Al Serrato select the location and coordinate the dinner. The location and date of
the next Members' Dinner will be posted in the ANNOUNCEMENTS Section. To offer suggestions
for our next members' dinner or for more information, please contact Michel de Goumois at 081-
525-1296, or Al Serrato at 087-036-0625, or email [email protected] or see Michel
or Al at our Sunday meetings.
COMPUTER GROUP – Meets PERIODICALLY when there is a host available, at Markland
Hotel, corner of Beach Road and Soi 1 in Pattaya. Meetings are held in the Meeting Room on the
3rd
floor Markland Parking Garage. The charge for the Meeting Room of 400 baht is distributed
among those attending. There is free parking on the Garage‘s 3rd floor, quite close to the Meeting
Room. There are a number of electrical connections available so you are welcome to bring your
computer. If you are interested in joining us, please list your name on the Computer Group sign-up
sheet. We will send you a reminder of the meeting 3 to 5 days in advance of the meeting. For
additional meeting information or if you would like to be a host for one or more meetings, please
contact Richard Smith at 038-412197, 089-244-9523 or by email at [email protected] .
PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP – Meets PERIODICALLY usually in the Markland 3rd
floor
Meeting Room (use the parking garage elevator to the 3rd
floor). The Markland is located on the
corner of Pattaya Beach Road and Soi 1. To receive 3 to 5 day advance notification of meetings,
put your name on the Photography Group sign-up sheet. For more information, or to get on the
list, call Richard Smith at 089-244-9523, or 038-412197.
BLUE WATER SAILING GROUP – Meets PERIODICALLY. This group is hosted by member
Nathan Russo for those that are interested in blue water sailing. Nathan spends his time between
Thailand and USA. See Club Announcements for any planned activities and sailing plans. If you
are interested, contact him at [email protected] or telephone him at 085-275-6724.
BANGLAMUNG DISTRICT CROSS CULTURAL VOLUNTEER GROUP – CLASS
OPENING DATE DELAYED - The next session of classes, scheduled to open July 18, 2011,
has been delayed, possibly for a month. Khun Surat, Owner of Mike Shopping Mall is readying
his new 37 floor hotel in Naklua on the Wong Amat shoreline for operation, and is using Meeting
Room #1 for training of the staff for the new hotel for at least the next month. The Group is
looking for another facility - but due to a limited budget, it is difficult to find adequate space.
When they do resume classes the first day will be the Opening Day – new and returning students
will be recognized and classes will be assigned based on the students‘ current English speaking
ability.
Classes will begin the following evening from 6pm to 8pm, and will continue for 12 weeks on
Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Certificates of Completion for the course will be awarded to the
students when the classes are complete, The Award Ceremony will be followed by a party for
students and Volunteers helping with the English Language program.
The Banglamung Volunteer Group asks Pattaya City Expat Club members to volunteer to help
Thais improve their English conversation ability through their "English Conversation for a Better
Life" program. The Group is always in need of additional teachers or helpers to work with the
students, or to fill in when the regular teachers are away. If you or a friend are interested in
participating as a helper or a Volunteer, please list your name on the sign-up sheet at this Sunday's
meeting, and you will be contacted and receive more information and class information as it
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
becomes available. If you become a volunteer, a special Banglamung District Cross Cultural
Volunteer Group ID card will be made for you. For those who already have the Group's ID card -
because we have a new Nai Amphur, you will need to have a new card made with his signature -
so please contact Khun Sermsakdi or Richard Smith to arrange for the new wallet size card with
his signature. If you have any questions or want more information about the program, please
contact Richard Smith at 038-412197, 089-244-95323, or by email at [email protected] or
call Khun Sermsakdi at 081-307-5614 or see him at our Sunday PCEC Meetings.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
Club Services
This section lists various services offered by the Club or by members of the Cub.
DRIVING LICENSE ASSISTANCE – Member Hans (Jon) Stroosnyder will escort and assist
those interested in getting a Thai driving license. Hans usually departs at 9am from The Tavern by
the Sea restaurant (Club‘s Sunday meeting place) on the 1st Wednesday of the month. For more
information, call Hans at 085-218-1773, or email him at [email protected] . See the Vehicles
page on the Club‘s website for information on the process and the documents needed.
VISA ASSISTANCE - If you need or want some information on requirements to enter or remain
in Thailand on a long stay basis, visit the Club‘s website and select the Visa & Immigration Page.
If you still have questions or need assistance regarding remaining in Thailand on your present visa
or visa exemption, please contact member Darrel Vaught with the Visa Assistance Committee at
[email protected] .
A DVD LENDING LIBRARY - Hawaii Bob Sutterfield usually has some of his collection of
over 2,000 DVD movies at the Sunday meeting to share with members. A current membership
card will allow you to borrow 4 DVDs for up to 4 weeks at no charge. If you have videos that you
no longer need, you are encouraged to donate them to the library.
BOOK EXCHANGE – This is a popular service started by member Roger Fox and now
undertaken by member Hawaii Bob Sutterfield for the benefit of fellow members and guest – it is
a ―book exchange,‖ so please remember that the general rule is to bring a book to exchange for
another.
LAMINATED PASSPORT CARDS - Kuhn Sermsakdi is usually available for making the
laminated cards for passports for a nominal fee. Please see Sermsakdi to collect yours. The cards
are laminated wallet size (an all-in-one copy - of the main page, TM (now HX) card, Visa page,
and front of passport). These cards have received good acceptance with businesses and hotels.
HAWAII BOB’S CLASSIFIED EXPAT ADS – Hawaii Bob has undertaken a service to his
fellow expats by creating and disseminating a list of want ads – buy, sell, give away. To facilitate
his efforts, we are posting the ads on the Club‘s website – on the Home Page click on ―details‖ in
the Announcements and Upcoming Events section. Or click here to go direct.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
Club Benefits
Certain businesses offer discounts to Pattaya City Expats Club Members. Show your membership card to
get the discount.
BANGKOK PATTAYA HOSPITAL (BHP) OFFERS DISCOUNTS TO PCEC MEMBERS
AND THEIR FAMILIES – When you obtain your BHP ID or if you haven‘t done so already, show
them your membership card on your next visit, you will be entered into BHP‘s computer as a PCEC
member. As a PCEC member you and your family members will get a 10% discount on room rates,
medication and prescribed drugs, and 10% off on dental treatment and 5% on prosthodontic and
endodontic dentistry. See the Health Issues Section for current promotions if any.
PHAYATHAI HOSPITAL SRIRACHA OFFERS DISCOUNTS TO PCEC MEMBERS - Club
members now receive a 10% discount on medicines (inpatient and outpatient), main physical check
up, CT, and MRI scans. This discount is good till November 14, 2010 for the initial period. See the
Health Issues Section for current promotions if any.
THAILIVING FERRY (PATTAYA-HUA HIN) – PCEC members receive a 10% discount on the
fare if they book direct with Thailiving Ferry – Telephone 038-364-515 or 087-747-5999 in Pattaya
and 032-632-223 or 084-800-400 in Hua Hin. Service on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday of each
week – pick up and drop off to specific locations within Pattaya and Hua Hin is included. Baggage
limit is 20kg or less per person. For more information visit their website at www.thailivingferry.com.
More information about their service and fares is in the January 28, 2011 Club Newsletter (page 6).
IRISH AIRCON CO. AND IRISH RENOVATIONS CO. PROVIDES DISCOUNTS TO PCEC
MEMBERS – PCEC Members receive a 10% discount on air conditioning service, maintenance, or
repair including labor time on any job (no discount on Freon gas as it is provided cost) and 5%
discount on new air conditioners bought from the company. For work done by Irish Renovations
(carpentry, painting, flooring, plumbing, plastering, tiling, electrical, etc.) members will get a 5%
discount. For more information on air conditioning service– contact Irish Aircon telephone 089-608-
7808, email [email protected] , or visit www.irishaircon.com. For more information on
renovations, contact Irish Renovations telephone 087-784-0570 or visit
http://www.irishaircon.com/irishrenovations/aboutus.php.
NOVACARE PRODUCTS OFFER DISCOUNTS TO PCEC MEMBERS ON THEIR
COCONUT OIL PRODUCTS – Fellow member Jinn Choi, advises that Novacare coconut products
including virgin coconut oil, shampoo-conditioner, and herbal soap are available to PCEC members
at a special 35~40% discount - put your member card number with your name on their purchase order
sheet. For more information, contact Khun Choi at 02-905-0961 Fax 02-905-0957, mobile 089-440-
0010 or email [email protected] .
FAIRTEX SPORT CLUB & RESORT IS OFFERING PCEC MEMBERS A DISCOUNT–
Fairtex offers a discount to PCEC members on their two annual packages. There will be a 10%
discount on their regular price of 8,999 Baht for the Fitness Package and a 20% discount on their
regular price of 18,000 Baht for the All Sports Package. They may also offer a discount on other Plans
of 10-15% - inquire. Fairtex is located on Pattaya Nua (North Road) a short distance past the Dolphin
traffic Circle. You can visit their website at http://www.fairtexpattaya.com/.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
Member Supported Charities
The club encourages its members to be active in supporting charitable organizations. This section assists
their efforts by providing information on some of these charitable activities.
SAVE THAT DRINK CAN RING PULL FOR A WORTHY CAUSE - Les Edmonds has
requested that you save those aluminum can ring pulls rather than discarding them when you open the
can. Gather up a few and bring them to Les. It seems they can be recycled for making artificial limbs.
Les will see that they get to the right place.
EYE GLASSES FOR THE NEEDY - Member Dave Anderson has been collecting eyeglasses and
frames for re-cycling and distributing to needy people in Thailand and Pattaya. He recently brought
2000 frames and lenses for distribution in Thailand through the Pattaya YWCA, City Hall, and his
connection with a country wide program. There is always a need - if you have any old glasses or
frames around, please bring them to the meeting, give them to Richard Smith. On Dave's latest visit,
we gave him the eyeglasses received (about 50 to 60), which he said would be donated to the Eyeglass
Bank Project.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
Health Issues
This section provides general information about health insurance, health care, and other medical
information that may benefit Expats living in Thailand.
LIVING WILL FORM – Dr. Iain Corness spoke to the Club about the new Living Will form that
is in use at Bangkok Hospital Pattaya (see the June 24, 2011 Newsletter). The Form, both English
and Thai versions with some additional information are on the Club‘s website -
http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/living%20will%20form.pdf . The new form
meets the requirement of Thai Statute No. 12 of the National Health Law. You can also obtain a
copy in either English or Thai from Sally at the Sunday meetings.
LISTING OF EXPAT RECOMMENDED MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS ON THE
WEBSITE – Member Vincent Ward is maintaining a list of medical professionals recommended
by expats and is sharing that list by posting it on the Club‘s website. If you have a particular
medical professional that you would like to recommend to your fellow expats, email Vincent
at [email protected] with the name, specialty or medical field, location (hospital, clinic, etc.),
contact (telephone, email address, and/or website), and any specific comments you wish to make,
e.g., very good English, etc. For brevity and to comply with Thai legal requirements we may need
to edit the comments submitted. The list can be viewed by going to
http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/HEALTH-%20CARE.pdf.
BANGKOK HOSPITAL PATTAYA INFORMATION & PROMOTIONS –We have not
received any information on Promotions for July.
PHYATHAI SRIRACHA HOSPITAL PROMOTIONS –Gavin Waddell, International
Marketing Executive, has provided us with hospital promotions for July. Health Check up -
Female Program includes physical examination, electrocardiogram, stool examination, ABI
(caratoid vein), urine examination, liver function test (SGOT, SGPT, Alkaline Phosphatase),
kidney function test (BUN, Creatininine), ultrasound whole abdomen, dental examination,
complete blood count, blood sugar (diabetes), cholesterol (HDL. LDL,), triglyceride, chest x ray,
uric acid, cervical cancer test, and doctor's consultation (price 4,325 Baht, regularly 8,650); Male
Program includes the same except it has a PSA test instead of the cervical cancer test (price 3,925
Baht, regularly7,850). Both include a continental breakfast. Allergy Testing includes tests for 23
different types of allergy (price 1,900 Baht, regularly 2,500). Lower Back MRI (7,000 Baht,
regularly 9,500). Vaccinations (price per dose): Hepatitis A (price 1,850 Baht, regularly 2,200) -
2 doses needed for full protection; Hepatitis B (price 900 Baht, regularly 1,000) – 3 doses needed;
Chicken pox (price 1,600 Baht, regularly 1,850). You can contact Gavin for more information
about Hospital services and promotions at 038-770-200/8 Ext: 2426 or 089-750-0293. You can
email Gavin at [email protected] .
HEALTH CARE IN THAILAND The Club‘s website has additional information about medical
care in Thailand including information about the local laboratory that does a wide variety of lab
test at lower cost than the local hospitals (test results only – they do not do physician evaluation);
listing of hospitals and clinics in Bangkok and Provinces in Thailand; extended/retirement care
facilities; and more. Link to website page on Health Care:
http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/HEALTH-%20CARE.pdf.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
GROUP MEDICAL COVERAGE - Is provided to the Club through AA Insurance. Their
representative is usually available at each Sunday meeting to answer any questions you may have
about the Group policy. For the Group coverage, you are eligible if you are under 59 1/2 for a new
subscriber, and under age 64 1/2 for those currently in the Group plan. All the details, including
coverage's and prices are in process of being loaded on the Club website. .
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER July 29, 2011
Dining Out
We have several featured restaurants that offer discounts for Club Members (show your card at the time
you ask for your check). To see more information about the featured and other recommended
restaurants, visit the dining out information on the Club’s website. For more information on the featured
restaurants, visit the featured restaurants page on the Club’s website.
Featured Restaurants Offering Discounts to Club Members
Amari Orchard Resort & Tower Restaurants & Lounges – The Amari Orchard Resort has
several restaurants and bars available, all offering Club members a 15% discount. For various
monthly and other promotion information call the Amari at 038-418-418). Orchid Terrace &
Garden Lounge has an Italian Buffet every Friday from 6pm to 10:30pm for 490 Baht net per
person - wine buffet & limoncello also available. The Essence restaurant offers a regular menu of
western, Thai, Japanese, Indian, and Chinese specialties. Every Saturday from 6:30pm to 10:30pm,
Amari has seafood BBQ by the pool for 750++ per person. The new Ocean Tower has a 24 hour
restaurant with a view of the Resorts beautiful gardens, and with the new Horizon Club on the top
floor, offers a new level of personalized service and audio-visual technology. The Tavern by the
Sea (formerly Henry J. Bean's) is now open. Mantra (offers different cuisines in a fabulous setting.
Email: [email protected] or call mantra: 038-429-591
Other PCEC Featured Restaurants – Bob’s Bar B Q – 10%; Cafe New Orleans - 10%; New
York Pizza House - 10% - 081-296-4364 & delivery 080-787-3330; Blue Sky Restaurant on 27th
floor of the Mark-land Hotel; Pizza, Pizza at the Avenue -- 10% - 038-723-929; Street Life Deli
between Pattayaland Soi 2 &3 – 10% o- 038-710-680 or 081-945-5396; Chez George on 3rd
Road -
a 10% on food - 038-723-219 or 086-151-4200; Valentino Restaurant - 20% Discount; La Luna
Italian Restaurant - 15 % Discount - 038-371-322; Goose’s Fish & Chips - 20% - 087-133-4240
(English) or 081-576-3372 (Thai) ; Edelweiss Swiss Restaurant - 15% - 038-251-326 or 081-844-
6037; Pizza Pizza -10% (Avenue Shopping Center) - 038-723929, Tequila Reef Cantina - 20% -
038-414035; Big Horn Steakhouse - 10% (Central Shopping Arcade, 2nd Road; 038-
720289; Green Tree Restaurant - 10%; Balcony Restaurant - 10% (Pattaya Nua (North) Road)
038-411429; Aloha Restaurant - 20% (2nd Road) 038-723175; Aungkam Northern Thai
(Issan) Restaurant - 10% (3rd Road) 038-370386; and Palace Lebanese Restaurant - 10% (4th
Floor of Central Festival Pattaya Beach - Ocean end) 038-043-220.
Frugal Freddy Restaurants offering 20% discount to PCEC members
Aloha Polynesian Restaurant – 081-865-5184; El Paso Steak House - 084-781-0648; Israeli &
Lebanese restaurant in Pizza 24 and Pizza 24 - 080-643-3433; Jolly Friar – 089-026-0520;
Little Italy – 0890697171; Loaf Bakery - Pizza Parlor - 038- 427-615; Mulligan’s Irish
Restaurant -087-921-8188; Shenanigans (Avenue Shopping Center) – 086-108-6228; Spices 2
Indian Restaurant - and Tequila Reef Cantina – 089-401-6022.
If you find any information about our Featured Restaurants is incorrect, please contact us at
[email protected] or [email protected] ; for Frugal Freddy Restaurants,
contact Hawaii Bob at [email protected] . denotes PCEC featured restaurants that have
agreed to offer the 20% Frugal Freddy discounts to members instead of their previous 10% discount
provided you identify yourself as a Frugal Freddy Member when presenting the card.
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