Getting Borred In "fun-city" -

[jetjock]

I never seemed to get bored visiting Pattaya when I was single but after getting married it seems that the way I view Pattaya has changed and I have started getting a little bored on my recent visits after being there a few days. This is a good topic for me as it has given me some new ideas on things to do on my next visit. On previous visits I have always enjoyed the expat club meetings on Sunday and working out every day at Tony's gym and now after reading this topic I am looking forward to checking out Tropical Berts on Friday night.

[philliphn]

Take up the Martial Art of Taekwondo.

..or try Aikido and take out Buriramboy ....PM me for details

Would that be Ai ki ki or Yoshokai, or Yoshinkai style, or another style?

[Chang_paarp]

go and do some volunteer work at an orphanage.

this might be a reasonalbe Idee - any Informations about Orphanages in Pattaya?

Cheers

Try Mercy Mission, it is quietly supported by some on this forum. They could always do with a hand.

Look here; http://www.mercypattaya.org/

Contact details here; http://www.mercypattaya.org/Contact.html

There are a couple of others around Pattaya but I am not as familiar with them.

[helicoptor]

Get a tattoo

or learn how to spell (borred)

[cm-happy]

Borred in Pattaya?? Thought thats why many ppl holiday/visit there.

Large selection of bore girls, bore boys to choose whatever your preference.

Sorry, could not resist

[raro]

Take up the Martial Art of Taekwondo.

..or try Aikido and take out Buriramboy ....PM me for details

Would that be Ai ki ki or Yoshokai, or Yoshinkai style, or another style?

I practice Aikikai/Nishio style but there is also Yoshinkan available.

[NanLaew]

Go diving

i'd second this, both muff and scuba can provide enjoyable, rewarding experiences.

and both quite safe as long as you a ) do it with a buddy for the latter and b ) she holds on to your ears on the former.

[FATNAPPY]

GREAT ADVICE FROM ALL OF YOU BUT YOU HAVE ALL MISSED THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR....GIRLFRIEND/BORED.........BIN HER AND START ENJOYING YOURSELF AGAIN !!!

[wcr]

As many have said, get involved with a charity of some sort.

There are several Rotary Clubs in town. Weekly meetings as well as other functions to go to and also getting out into the community and making a difference. Take a look at this website

RCOTP

It will give you a good idea of what one local club does.

If you are interested in learning more contact me via PM or email me at

email RCOTP

Cheers

[chanchao]

I second the advise given so far: Either do charity work, or go misbehave properly. Or both, of course.

[chanchao]

Try Mercy Mission, it is quietly supported by some on this forum. They could always do with a hand.

Indeed wise to do that quietly, seeing it's a christian outfit..

[undercover]

Bored ? Is money a bit tight ? anyone who has to be careful with the money they spend will quickly find out pattaya is not a good place to live, you will see all the people around you having fun but this fun is costing money,

If money is not tight then start spending it, if you have money avalible to you and you cant find something to do in pattaya then theres no hope for you !

[chanchao]

Depends.. Sitting on a beach doesn't cost much (any) money. Exercising doesn't cost much (any) money. Actually, the best things in life don't cost a lot (or any) money.

If you find yourself looking at other people spending a lot of money and define happiness along monetary lines then you have a desire/jealousy issue to come to terms with.

[soundman]

Start drinking beer & take up smoking!!

After all why come to Pattaya and try to be PC??

Soundman.

[pattayadave]

Start drinking beer & take up smoking!!

After all why come to Pattaya and try to be PC??

Soundman.

[toklong]

go and do some volunteer work at an orphanage.

Or....go and do some volunteer work with the tourist police

[lemel]

Here are a few things going on this month

PCEC TRIP TO UBC/TRUE STUDIO/BROADCAST FACILITY IN BANGKOK – UBC/True is unable to provide a speaker in the near future, so a Board member will visit their facilities in Bangkok to see if they are worth organizing a trip to see, and report back to the Board and the members within the next two weeks.

FIRST AID CLASSES – At our May 20th meeting, we will have one or more Emergency Room Doctors from Bangkok Hospital Pattaya (BHP) as our speaker. This is a lead up to the First Aid Class, which BHP will provide at our June 17th meeting.

NEW PCEC CLUB SLOGAN – At last week’s meeting, PCEC Secretary David Meador handed out a paper with the short list of the 5 top slogans, boiled down from a list of 78, and asked those present to mark their preferred choice and return to him. He will be presenting the results to the Board at their meeting following this week’s Sunday meeting. So, the suspense will soon be over with an expected announcement of the winning slogan at next week’s meeting.

LAST WEEK'S MEETING - Never believe any war will be smooth and easy, or that anyone who embarks on the strange voyage can measure the tides and hurricanes he will encounter. (Winston Churchill). This apt observation was confirmed when a panel of our members discussed their experiences during the Vietnam War. Four of our members formed this panel. They were Roger Fox, an Army “Chinook” helicopter pilot; Jim Jones, a Marine amphibious tractor operator; Al Serrato, an Army lieutenant with varied experiences; and Paul Back, although a former Marine, he spent his time in Vietnam as a civilian.

They provided individual accounts of their differing roles in the Vietnam conflict, and each talked about their lasting impressions of the war, the Vietnamese people, the conduct of that war, and how that experience affected their future lives. Al Serrato, currently the Deputy Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Pattaya, provided some particularly harrowing details. They agreed that at the time there appeared to be no end to the Cold War, and that the so-called domino effect, wherein neighboring countries could, in turn, fall to communism, was seen as a real threat. Also the politicising of the conflict by the powers in Washington, and the comprehensive television coverage around the world, increased the unpopularity of the war amongst world opinion. They saw many parallels with the current Iraqi conflict. The speakers comments were very personal - the audience felt that, and were very quiet during the discussions.

WHAT’S HAPPENING - A listing of upcoming events in Pattaya, Bangkok, and elsewhere during May, June, and July 2007 of interest to Pattaya's Expat community. Inclusion of commercially sponsored events does not mean that the PCEC endorses the companies or their products. Any event that is sponsored by the PCEC will be clearly identified as such. Please help us learn about forthcoming events or activities. If you know of any events you think would be of interest, please let us know by emailing [email protected].

EVERY MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, & FRIDAY – THE PATTAYA BRIDGE CLUB meets at the Tropicana Hotel, Beach Road at 1:00pm. For more information go to their web site at www.pattayabridge.com.

EVERY WEDNESDAY – BUDDIE GROUP MEETING at the Redemptorist Centre on Sukhumvit. BUDDIE stands for "Building Understanding and Developing Dignity in Everyone." At the BUDDIE group meetings men talk about the challenges, disappointments, pleasures and pain that come with starting life over in Pattaya. The meetings provide a safe place for discussion, and all matters discussed are kept in complete confidentiality. For more information, Buddie moderator Lynda can be contacted on 084-132-7086, or by email at [email protected].

EVERY SATURDAY – IAN TAYLOR’S BOAT ‘PATTAYA BAY’ will be cruising around the islands and coasts of Pattaya, Jomtien, and Naklua, stopping for swimming and snorkeling activities. The Pattaya Bay is a 57 foot long and 11 foot wide boat. It has a sun deck and dive platform at the rear. The cost of this venture is 500 baht per person with a 50% reduction for your partner (750 baht for two). The trip leaves at 11:00 AM from next to the Julie Hotel, opposite the Soho Square Development on Walking Street. For more information, contact Ian Taylor at 087-137-1529 or E-mail him at [email protected]

NOW THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 6 – DUTCH ARTIST LEA LAARAKKER DINGJAN WILL EXHIBIT her paintings on silk. The Exhibit, entitled East and West – How Beautiful the Twain Meet will be at Ursula’s Antiques on Third Road. For more information, call 038-415-431 or email [email protected].

NOW THROUGH MONDAY, JULY 30, 2007 – A PHOTO CONTEST SPONSORED BY CITY HALL with categories for the contest of: “Visiting Pattaya, Impressionable and Unforgettable” and “Amusement in Every Square Inch of Pattaya”. The winner will receive 70,000 baht, 2nd-place will get 50,000 baht, 3rd place is worth 30,000 baht, and there will be ten consolation prizes worth 5,000 baht each. Anyone interested can submit their photos in person or post them to the Tourism Development and Promotion Section, Tourism Section of Pattaya City Hall For more information go to www.pattaya.go.th .

THURSDAY TO MONDAY, MAY 3 TO MAY 7 – THE THIRD TOP OF THE GULF INTERNATIONAL REGATTA with a fleet of over 250 international and local yachts sailing off the Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Jomtien Beach. The 500 sailors from six countries, including Thailand, Australia, Malaysia, Japan, Singapore and the Philippines, will be competing for three trophies: HM The King Royal sponsored ‘Platu Coronation Cup,’ the event’s ‘TOG Regatta Trophy’ and ‘Optimist National Championship’ for young sailors aged between 8 and 15. Registration will be on Thursday, May 3rd and the races will begin on May 4th. For more information visit: www.topofthegulfregatta.com.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, MAY 5 AND 6 – PATTAYA RUGBY tournament will be staged at Horseshoe Point Resort from 9am on Saturday and concluding around 5pm Sunday. This is the eighth staging of this event. There will be 16 teams playing in the main 10's tournament. Last year's champions the Royal Thai Navy will be defending their title. There will be some ladies teams playing along with teams from the Philippines and Singapore.

SATURDAY, MAY 5 TO SATURDAY, MAY 26 - EXHIBITION ENTITLED A PROPOS 2550 will be presented at Gallery Opium located on Thepprasit Road. The Exhibition is about a casual bringing together of two artists in 2007. Gallery opening hours are Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm.

MONDAY, MAY 7 – BOAT TRIP TO KOH SI CHANG on Rod's big boat the Edina, is scheduled to depart Bali Hai Pier at 9:00 am (sharp) and return by 6:00 pm. This is a trip planned by the lessors of his boat. For 1,000 baht, you get to be whisked around the island by Tuk-Tuk, visit a venerable Chinese temple and it's grotto, give a few alms to the old people, followed by a seafood lunch, a visit to the old palace grounds for coffee, and libations (you pay) as you relax on the beach. Interested - get your name on the sign-up sheet this Sunday.

TUESDAY, MAY 8 – The INVESTMENT GROUP MEETING at 1:00 PM in the Mark-Land Hotel Conference Room (downstairs on your right as you enter the building). Our own Capt Cliff Hagerman has some new tips and will be giving the presentation, while Sig will present his timely bits of information. Of course Dave Dunbar will give us the latest from Vector Vest, with the assistance of the Wi-Fi available in the Mark-Land Conference Room and Coffee Shop. Please bring anything you have learned that will be of interest to the group.

FRIDAY, MAY 11 – THE FINALS OF THE 10TH MISS TIFFANY UNIVERSE will be at Tiffany’s on 2nd Road. This is a beauty pageant featuring women of the “second category” and is a popular attraction. Contact Tiffany’s on the Internet or by phone for more information.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, MAY 12 AND 13 – PATTAYA DOWNTOWN 2007 MOUTAIN BIKE EVENT will start from Pattaya Radio 5 Station, passes Chalermprakeit Park, and finishes at Pattaya City Viewing Point. It will have 7 categories: Under 15, Down Hill group A, Down Hill group B, 30-39, 40+, Free Ride and Hard Trail. The Pattaya Downtown 2007 planning consortium comprises the Pattaya City Council, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Running and Cycling Club for Health.

MONDAY, MAY 14 – COMPUTER GROUP MEETING at 1pm in the Conference Room of the Mark-Land Hotel. The Mark-Land now has Wi-Fi in their Coffee Shop, with reception extending to the Conference (Common) Room. The last meeting covered using Microsoft’s new operating system, Vista, and some exposure to Microsoft’s Office 2007. We will answer questions about Vista, Office 2007, and your personal questions about Windows XP, plus a review of the suggestions from Database. Our meetings are primarily to answer your questions, and present some current programs & suggestions for improved computer use. If you wish to receive a meeting notice with directions to the Mark-Land Hotel or need any additional information, please contact Richard Smith at 038-412-197, 089-244-9523, or by email at [email protected], or [email protected].

FRIDAY, MAY 18 TO THURSDAY, MAY 24 – ROYAL ORCHID PARADISE contest will be sponsored by Bangkok’s Siam Paragon. The winner will receive a crystal royal trophy from HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Applicants are required to send nine groups of single orchids such as Vanda and Cattleya to the Department of Agriculture, Chatuchak, during office hours. The deadline for applications is May 17.

SATURDAY, MAY 19 – CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT & SUMMER DANCE sponsored by The Rotary Club of Taksin-Pattaya and the German-Swiss Golf Club. This big event is taking place at the Eastern Star Golf Course and then the Amari Hotel. All income will go to the charity projects of both clubs. For more details please email [email protected], or visit their website at www.rotary-pattaya.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 25 --- AMERICAN CONSULAR SERVICE (ACS) VISIT TO PATTAYA will be from 8:00am to 12:00pm at the Dusit Resort on Beach Road. The ACS announcement states that this will probably be the last Consular visit until August or September. The following services will be provided: (1) Passport renewal applications ($67.00 or Baht 2,546 for adult passports, and $82 or Baht 3,116 for a child’s passport); (2) Notarial Services and Certified Copies ($30.00 or Baht 1,140); (3) Absentee ballot application and voting abroad information; and (4) Social security, VA or other federal benefits question. The ACS request you bring exact change and that due to an ACS systems software upgrade, applications for adding extra passport pages to the passport can be accepted, but the passport will not be available for pick up in Bangkok until the next day. If you have any questions, please e-mail: [email protected] or call the ACS Unit at: 02-205-4049.

SATURDAY, MAY 26 – LIONS CLUB INTERNATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT at Burapha Golf Course. The English speaking Lions Club will be holding their annual golf tournament with, amongst numerous other prizes, a brand new BMW for a prize. This event is for experts and amateurs alike and money raised will go towards the Lions hearing scheme for the disadvantaged. For further information please call Graham at 081-703-6150 or Joe at 081-338-5315 or email: [email protected]

AUGUST – THE PATTAYA CARNIVAL – City Hall postponed this event originally scheduled for May. We will provide the details as soon as soon as we get them.

WHAT'S INTERESTING AND HAPPENING WITH CLUB ACTIVITIES - Information on what is going on in your PCEC Interest Groups. 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.

DISCUSSION GROUP - Weekly on TUESDAYS 10:30am to 1:00pm - Your Host is Thor Halland – This group meets at the Shagwell Mansions, across from Carrefour, in Soi Arunothai. All subjects are open for debate.

THE GRANNY GROUP - Weekly on WEDNESDAY'S starting at 10:30 AM - Your Host is Marjorie Blissett. They meet at Oliver Twist’s restaurant on Pattaya Central Road, on the first (ground) floor of the Ali Baba Indian Restaurant. Marjorie says they have decided to make their meetings a “breakfast” meeting since breakfasts are available at Oliver Twists. We are also told the conversations are lively and with no limitation on the matters covered.

TOUCHY TOPICS - Weekly on THURSDAYS 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM - your Host is Terry Garr. 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 topic is always thought provoking and subject to lively discussion. They meet at Shagwell Mansions, across from Carrefour in Soi Arunothai. For more information call Phil at 086-035-4183.

WRITERS CORNER - Weekly on FRIDAY from 1:00pm to 3:00pm – Replacing John Lynham, who will be sorely missed, is your new host Roger Fox. Our erstwhile writers meet at Shagwell Mansions, across from Carrefour in Soi Arunothai. For more information, contact Roger at 084-073-1270 or by email at [email protected].

BOOK EXCHANGE - Weekly during the PCEC Sunday meeting. A popular service started by Roger Fox. The book table seems to change weekly. Keep your eyes open for a pile of books - you may find the one you have been looking for. Also, on occasion members bring in video disks (VCD or DVD) to exchange. If you have a book or video disk you are finished with, bring it to the exchange pile for others to enjoy, and pick up something new while you are at it. If you need more information you can contact Roger Fox at 084-073-1270 or by email at [email protected].

COMPUTER GROUP - Host is Richard Smith. The group meets monthly, usually on the first MONDAY of the month. The next meeting will be at 1pm on Monday, May 14th at the Mark-Land Hotel. See the “What’s Happening” section for details. Although Kilin’s computer shop where previous meetings were held is closed, Kilin will still be available for all computer work through his cell phone number 081-295-3860. For more information about the Computer Group, or to receive a meeting notice with directions to our location, contact Richard Smith at 038-412-197, 089-244-9523, or by email at [email protected], or [email protected] ..

INVESTORS GROUP – This group meets periodically as speakers for interesting investment ideas become available. Your host is Sig (Harry Sigworth). The next meeting will be on Tuesday, May 8 at the Mark-Land Hotel. See “What’s Happening” section for more information. If you have any helpful presentation suggestions for speakers, or feel you are experienced enough to give a talk let Sig hear from you. For more information contact Sig at 086-157-3739, or by email at: [email protected].

HOW DO THEY DO IT GROUP - About forty folks have signed up for opportunities to visit nearby facilities where stuff is made, manufactured, prepared, assembled, discovered, destroyed, cooked or concocted. So far the only visit has been to the house of 'empty promises'. Finding worthwhile places to visit hasn't been easy. Stewart checked out Ford and they are booked until next year. He is now working on Triumph Motorcycle. David has a lead at Emerson Electric. Several have expressed interest in visiting the Port at Leam Chabang, but how? If you have ideas about places to visit, contacts at places of interest or want to join the list of people waiting for something to actually happen, contact David Meador, [email protected] to be placed on the group's list or get on the sign-up sheet at the Sunday meetings.

MEMBERS DINNER – Is monthly, and usually on the first Thursday of each month. Cliff Hagerman is your Host. The last Members’ Dinner was on Thursday, May 3rd, at the King Seafood Restaurant on Walking Street. To offer suggestions for our next members' dinner or gain more information, please contact Cliff at 086-036-6753, or by email at [email protected].

BANGLAMUNG DISTRICT CROSS CULTURAL VOUNTEER GROUP – Organized by Richard Smith. The next Conversation sessions for new and returning Thai participants will begin on Monday, May 14, 2007 at the 8th floor of the Mike Shopping Mall, with classes Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6pm to 7:30pm (or later if the class wishes). For anyone interested in the program, please feel free to visit us during the class periods. You can observe, or if you wish, join us in our conversations with Thais who are very anxious to speak better English. If you would like to be part of our Volunteer Group, please complete an application and have two pictures (which we can take) to register you as a volunteer with the Banglamung District Cross Cultural Volunteer Group, and with the Banglamung District Office. For more information, please contact Richard Smith at 089-244-9523, 038-412-197, or by email at [email protected] or see Richard or Khun Sermsakdi anytime during class hours at the Mike Shopping Mall.

DRIVING LICENSE ASSISTANCE – The host is Hans (or John) Stroosnyder. Generally, a trip is arranged when there are a sufficient number of persons wanting to obtain their license(s). The date of the next trip will be announced at the Sunday Meeting, and in the Newsletter. The club web site at www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com has information on what is needed to obtain a Thai driving license along with the latest information we have on the subject – such as need for International Driving Permit to avoid the written and driving tests, and how to avoid problems with your picture (wearing the same shirt/blouse you wore for your last license picture is definitely a “no-no”).

BOAT GROUP – This group, hosted by Rod, was very popular with weekly meetings on Wednesday at 11:00am on Rod’s boat at Bali Hai Pier. The group became inactive after Rod leased the boat out to another party. However, he has announced that he is in the process of making arrangements with the lessees to use the boat when it is not chartered. Every THURSDAY, there will be a deep sea fishing trip departing at 6am and returning 5:30pm. The cost is 3,000 baht, which covers equipment, bait, and lunch as well as tea, coffee, and water. At last week’s meeting, Rod announced that the Koh Si Chang trip was postponed to May 7th. For more information, contact him at 087-039-9353.

INFORMATION OF INTEREST – Valuable information for or of use to our fellow Expats.

RECENT VISA RENEWAL COMMENTS – For comments about visa matters, please click on the following URL - http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/modul...r=0&thold=0

FEED BACK FROM THE Open Forum and Other Assistance – At last week’s Open Forum, a question was raised, but there was no one present with a complete answer. This question and the results of our inquiries follow:

QUESTION: Are there any businesses available for moving and storing furniture and other items?

ANSWER: At the meeting, Paul Back suggested going, with a Thai speaking person, to Sukhumvit where there are a lot of trucks parked, which can be hired to move anything you need. We also found there are several companies available for moving, and a few advertising storage – visit the PCEC website for a listing: http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/modul...cle&sid=900

GROUP MEDICAL COVERAGE - Group medical coverage through the PCEC is available. There are forms on the Information table, and a description of the policy, coverage, cost and application process on the website at Topic "Group Insurance for Pattaya City Expats" at

http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/appli...ce_coverage.pdf .. You will need a current PCEC discount card to obtain this coverage. A representative (Khun Neng – in a bright red shirt) of AA Insurance will periodically be at our Sunday Meeting to discuss the group insurance program, and the FAST family alert program, with you. You may also contact AA Insurance at 038 415 795-6 for detailed information.

DIALING FOR INFORMATION OR ASSISTANCE – 1337 for Pattaya (dial 1337 and then 9 for English), and 1111 for the Thai Government Ministry of Information – please see details on our website at http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/modul...cle&sid=877. If you have tried either of these numbers we would like to know what you think of their service - please email [email protected], or leave a message at 038-412-197.

PCEC DISCOUNT CARD – See Max Rommel, Treasurer, during the meeting at the table near the door for renewal or new discount card. For renewal, just give Max your expired card. For a new card, get the application form from Max – he will also need two driver’s license size pictures. The card’s fee of 300 baht will entitle you to discounts at restaurants listed on our website under Members’ Discounts, obtain Group Hospitalization Insurance coverage for yourself and your extended family, qualify for a 10% discount on the FAST card, and obtain discounts of up to 10% on services at Bangkok Hospital Pattaya.

THE PCEC DISCOUNT AND SPECIAL BENEFITS APPLICATION FORM FOR BANGKOK HOSPITAL PATTAYA (BHP) is on the Pattaya City Expats Club website at http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/modul...cle&sid=871. If you already have a BHP card through earlier application as a PCEC member, you need not re-apply. See the information at the internet address above to apply. The BHP ID card alone will greatly speed up your check-in to the hospital (especially helpful when you are hurting), and the verification of the cardholder as a PCEC member will get you the 10% discount on room rates, medication and prescribed drugs, and 5% off on dental work, plus notices of discounts on special services offered throughout the year.

PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB WEBSITE – There is a wealth of information at our website - www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com. We are constantly adding new information to all the Topics on our website. So, please visit often. The easiest way to get the information you want is to click on SEARCH, enter the word or word that describe what you are looking for, and click on Search in the box, and review the articles that show up. Americans will be interested in the availability of income tax preparation service. We were recently apprised of a firm in Bangkok that provides this service – see http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/modul...cle&sid=887.

PICTURES OF PAST EVENTS - You can view the photo album of the PCEC's trips and activities over the last two years on the Webshots website at http://community.webshots.com/user/rick2d1 (copy the address to your address box, or hold down the Ctrl key and click on the address). Photos may be viewed, seen as a slideshow, or downloaded from the site. This year’s photos of club activities can be viewed, copied or downloaded only at Picasa Albums (we changed because it is so much easier to upload pictures to Picasa Albums) at http://picasaweb.google.com/rick2mail.

[FATNAPPY]

Here are a few things going on this month

PCEC TRIP TO UBC/TRUE STUDIO/BROADCAST FACILITY IN BANGKOK – UBC/True is unable to provide a speaker in the near future, so a Board member will visit their facilities in Bangkok to see if they are worth organizing a trip to see, and report back to the Board and the members within the next two weeks.

FIRST AID CLASSES – At our May 20th meeting, we will have one or more Emergency Room Doctors from Bangkok Hospital Pattaya (BHP) as our speaker. This is a lead up to the First Aid Class, which BHP will provide at our June 17th meeting.

NEW PCEC CLUB SLOGAN – At last week's meeting, PCEC Secretary David Meador handed out a paper with the short list of the 5 top slogans, boiled down from a list of 78, and asked those present to mark their preferred choice and return to him. He will be presenting the results to the Board at their meeting following this week's Sunday meeting. So, the suspense will soon be over with an expected announcement of the winning slogan at next week's meeting.

LAST WEEK'S MEETING - Never believe any war will be smooth and easy, or that anyone who embarks on the strange voyage can measure the tides and hurricanes he will encounter. (Winston Churchill). This apt observation was confirmed when a panel of our members discussed their experiences during the Vietnam War. Four of our members formed this panel. They were Roger Fox, an Army "Chinook" helicopter pilot; Jim Jones, a Marine amphibious tractor operator; Al Serrato, an Army lieutenant with varied experiences; and Paul Back, although a former Marine, he spent his time in Vietnam as a civilian.

They provided individual accounts of their differing roles in the Vietnam conflict, and each talked about their lasting impressions of the war, the Vietnamese people, the conduct of that war, and how that experience affected their future lives. Al Serrato, currently the Deputy Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Pattaya, provided some particularly harrowing details. They agreed that at the time there appeared to be no end to the Cold War, and that the so-called domino effect, wherein neighboring countries could, in turn, fall to communism, was seen as a real threat. Also the politicising of the conflict by the powers in Washington, and the comprehensive television coverage around the world, increased the unpopularity of the war amongst world opinion. They saw many parallels with the current Iraqi conflict. The speakers comments were very personal - the audience felt that, and were very quiet during the discussions.

WHAT'S HAPPENING - A listing of upcoming events in Pattaya, Bangkok, and elsewhere during May, June, and July 2007 of interest to Pattaya's Expat community. Inclusion of commercially sponsored events does not mean that the PCEC endorses the companies or their products. Any event that is sponsored by the PCEC will be clearly identified as such. Please help us learn about forthcoming events or activities. If you know of any events you think would be of interest, please let us know by emailing [email protected].

EVERY MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, & FRIDAY – THE PATTAYA BRIDGE CLUB meets at the Tropicana Hotel, Beach Road at 1:00pm. For more information go to their web site at www.pattayabridge.com.

EVERY WEDNESDAY – BUDDIE GROUP MEETING at the Redemptorist Centre on Sukhumvit. BUDDIE stands for "Building Understanding and Developing Dignity in Everyone." At the BUDDIE group meetings men talk about the challenges, disappointments, pleasures and pain that come with starting life over in Pattaya. The meetings provide a safe place for discussion, and all matters discussed are kept in complete confidentiality. For more information, Buddie moderator Lynda can be contacted on 084-132-7086, or by email at [email protected].

EVERY SATURDAY – IAN TAYLOR'S BOAT 'PATTAYA BAY' will be cruising around the islands and coasts of Pattaya, Jomtien, and Naklua, stopping for swimming and snorkeling activities. The Pattaya Bay is a 57 foot long and 11 foot wide boat. It has a sun deck and dive platform at the rear. The cost of this venture is 500 baht per person with a 50% reduction for your partner (750 baht for two). The trip leaves at 11:00 AM from next to the Julie Hotel, opposite the Soho Square Development on Walking Street. For more information, contact Ian Taylor at 087-137-1529 or E-mail him at [email protected]

NOW THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 6 – DUTCH ARTIST LEA LAARAKKER DINGJAN WILL EXHIBIT her paintings on silk. The Exhibit, entitled East and West – How Beautiful the Twain Meet will be at Ursula's Antiques on Third Road. For more information, call 038-415-431 or email [email protected].

NOW THROUGH MONDAY, JULY 30, 2007 – A PHOTO CONTEST SPONSORED BY CITY HALL with categories for the contest of: "Visiting Pattaya, Impressionable and Unforgettable" and "Amusement in Every Square Inch of Pattaya". The winner will receive 70,000 baht, 2nd-place will get 50,000 baht, 3rd place is worth 30,000 baht, and there will be ten consolation prizes worth 5,000 baht each. Anyone interested can submit their photos in person or post them to the Tourism Development and Promotion Section, Tourism Section of Pattaya City Hall For more information go to www.pattaya.go.th .

THURSDAY TO MONDAY, MAY 3 TO MAY 7 – THE THIRD TOP OF THE GULF INTERNATIONAL REGATTA with a fleet of over 250 international and local yachts sailing off the Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Jomtien Beach. The 500 sailors from six countries, including Thailand, Australia, Malaysia, Japan, Singapore and the Philippines, will be competing for three trophies: HM The King Royal sponsored 'Platu Coronation Cup,' the event's 'TOG Regatta Trophy' and 'Optimist National Championship' for young sailors aged between 8 and 15. Registration will be on Thursday, May 3rd and the races will begin on May 4th. For more information visit: www.topofthegulfregatta.com.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, MAY 5 AND 6 – PATTAYA RUGBY tournament will be staged at Horseshoe Point Resort from 9am on Saturday and concluding around 5pm Sunday. This is the eighth staging of this event. There will be 16 teams playing in the main 10's tournament. Last year's champions the Royal Thai Navy will be defending their title. There will be some ladies teams playing along with teams from the Philippines and Singapore.

SATURDAY, MAY 5 TO SATURDAY, MAY 26 - EXHIBITION ENTITLED A PROPOS 2550 will be presented at Gallery Opium located on Thepprasit Road. The Exhibition is about a casual bringing together of two artists in 2007. Gallery opening hours are Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm.

MONDAY, MAY 7 – BOAT TRIP TO KOH SI CHANG on Rod's big boat the Edina, is scheduled to depart Bali Hai Pier at 9:00 am (sharp) and return by 6:00 pm. This is a trip planned by the lessors of his boat. For 1,000 baht, you get to be whisked around the island by Tuk-Tuk, visit a venerable Chinese temple and it's grotto, give a few alms to the old people, followed by a seafood lunch, a visit to the old palace grounds for coffee, and libations (you pay) as you relax on the beach. Interested - get your name on the sign-up sheet this Sunday.

TUESDAY, MAY 8 – The INVESTMENT GROUP MEETING at 1:00 PM in the Mark-Land Hotel Conference Room (downstairs on your right as you enter the building). Our own Capt Cliff Hagerman has some new tips and will be giving the presentation, while Sig will present his timely bits of information. Of course Dave Dunbar will give us the latest from Vector Vest, with the assistance of the Wi-Fi available in the Mark-Land Conference Room and Coffee Shop. Please bring anything you have learned that will be of interest to the group.

FRIDAY, MAY 11 – THE FINALS OF THE 10TH MISS TIFFANY UNIVERSE will be at Tiffany's on 2nd Road. This is a beauty pageant featuring women of the "second category" and is a popular attraction. Contact Tiffany's on the Internet or by phone for more information.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, MAY 12 AND 13 – PATTAYA DOWNTOWN 2007 MOUTAIN BIKE EVENT will start from Pattaya Radio 5 Station, passes Chalermprakeit Park, and finishes at Pattaya City Viewing Point. It will have 7 categories: Under 15, Down Hill group A, Down Hill group B, 30-39, 40+, Free Ride and Hard Trail. The Pattaya Downtown 2007 planning consortium comprises the Pattaya City Council, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Running and Cycling Club for Health.

MONDAY, MAY 14 – COMPUTER GROUP MEETING at 1pm in the Conference Room of the Mark-Land Hotel. The Mark-Land now has Wi-Fi in their Coffee Shop, with reception extending to the Conference (Common) Room. The last meeting covered using Microsoft's new operating system, Vista, and some exposure to Microsoft's Office 2007. We will answer questions about Vista, Office 2007, and your personal questions about Windows XP, plus a review of the suggestions from Database. Our meetings are primarily to answer your questions, and present some current programs & suggestions for improved computer use. If you wish to receive a meeting notice with directions to the Mark-Land Hotel or need any additional information, please contact Richard Smith at 038-412-197, 089-244-9523, or by email at [email protected], or [email protected].

FRIDAY, MAY 18 TO THURSDAY, MAY 24 – ROYAL ORCHID PARADISE contest will be sponsored by Bangkok's Siam Paragon. The winner will receive a crystal royal trophy from HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Applicants are required to send nine groups of single orchids such as Vanda and Cattleya to the Department of Agriculture, Chatuchak, during office hours. The deadline for applications is May 17.

SATURDAY, MAY 19 – CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT & SUMMER DANCE sponsored by The Rotary Club of Taksin-Pattaya and the German-Swiss Golf Club. This big event is taking place at the Eastern Star Golf Course and then the Amari Hotel. All income will go to the charity projects of both clubs. For more details please email [email protected], or visit their website at www.rotary-pattaya.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 25 --- AMERICAN CONSULAR SERVICE (ACS) VISIT TO PATTAYA will be from 8:00am to 12:00pm at the Dusit Resort on Beach Road. The ACS announcement states that this will probably be the last Consular visit until August or September. The following services will be provided: (1) Passport renewal applications ($67.00 or Baht 2,546 for adult passports, and $82 or Baht 3,116 for a child's passport); (2) Notarial Services and Certified Copies ($30.00 or Baht 1,140); (3) Absentee ballot application and voting abroad information; and (4) Social security, VA or other federal benefits question. The ACS request you bring exact change and that due to an ACS systems software upgrade, applications for adding extra passport pages to the passport can be accepted, but the passport will not be available for pick up in Bangkok until the next day. If you have any questions, please e-mail: [email protected] or call the ACS Unit at: 02-205-4049.

SATURDAY, MAY 26 – LIONS CLUB INTERNATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT at Burapha Golf Course. The English speaking Lions Club will be holding their annual golf tournament with, amongst numerous other prizes, a brand new BMW for a prize. This event is for experts and amateurs alike and money raised will go towards the Lions hearing scheme for the disadvantaged. For further information please call Graham at 081-703-6150 or Joe at 081-338-5315 or email: [email protected]

AUGUST – THE PATTAYA CARNIVAL – City Hall postponed this event originally scheduled for May. We will provide the details as soon as soon as we get them.

WHAT'S INTERESTING AND HAPPENING WITH CLUB ACTIVITIES - Information on what is going on in your PCEC Interest Groups. 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.

DISCUSSION GROUP - Weekly on TUESDAYS 10:30am to 1:00pm - Your Host is Thor Halland – This group meets at the Shagwell Mansions, across from Carrefour, in Soi Arunothai. All subjects are open for debate.

THE GRANNY GROUP - Weekly on WEDNESDAY'S starting at 10:30 AM - Your Host is Marjorie Blissett. They meet at Oliver Twist's restaurant on Pattaya Central Road, on the first (ground) floor of the Ali Baba Indian Restaurant. Marjorie says they have decided to make their meetings a "breakfast" meeting since breakfasts are available at Oliver Twists. We are also told the conversations are lively and with no limitation on the matters covered.

TOUCHY TOPICS - Weekly on THURSDAYS 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM - your Host is Terry Garr. 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 topic is always thought provoking and subject to lively discussion. They meet at Shagwell Mansions, across from Carrefour in Soi Arunothai. For more information call Phil at 086-035-4183.

WRITERS CORNER - Weekly on FRIDAY from 1:00pm to 3:00pm – Replacing John Lynham, who will be sorely missed, is your new host Roger Fox. Our erstwhile writers meet at Shagwell Mansions, across from Carrefour in Soi Arunothai. For more information, contact Roger at 084-073-1270 or by email at [email protected].

BOOK EXCHANGE - Weekly during the PCEC Sunday meeting. A popular service started by Roger Fox. The book table seems to change weekly. Keep your eyes open for a pile of books - you may find the one you have been looking for. Also, on occasion members bring in video disks (VCD or DVD) to exchange. If you have a book or video disk you are finished with, bring it to the exchange pile for others to enjoy, and pick up something new while you are at it. If you need more information you can contact Roger Fox at 084-073-1270 or by email at [email protected].

COMPUTER GROUP - Host is Richard Smith. The group meets monthly, usually on the first MONDAY of the month. The next meeting will be at 1pm on Monday, May 14th at the Mark-Land Hotel. See the "What's Happening" section for details. Although Kilin's computer shop where previous meetings were held is closed, Kilin will still be available for all computer work through his cell phone number 081-295-3860. For more information about the Computer Group, or to receive a meeting notice with directions to our location, contact Richard Smith at 038-412-197, 089-244-9523, or by email at [email protected], or [email protected] ..

INVESTORS GROUP – This group meets periodically as speakers for interesting investment ideas become available. Your host is Sig (Harry Sigworth). The next meeting will be on Tuesday, May 8 at the Mark-Land Hotel. See "What's Happening" section for more information. If you have any helpful presentation suggestions for speakers, or feel you are experienced enough to give a talk let Sig hear from you. For more information contact Sig at 086-157-3739, or by email at: [email protected].

HOW DO THEY DO IT GROUP - About forty folks have signed up for opportunities to visit nearby facilities where stuff is made, manufactured, prepared, assembled, discovered, destroyed, cooked or concocted. So far the only visit has been to the house of 'empty promises'. Finding worthwhile places to visit hasn't been easy. Stewart checked out Ford and they are booked until next year. He is now working on Triumph Motorcycle. David has a lead at Emerson Electric. Several have expressed interest in visiting the Port at Leam Chabang, but how? If you have ideas about places to visit, contacts at places of interest or want to join the list of people waiting for something to actually happen, contact David Meador, [email protected] to be placed on the group's list or get on the sign-up sheet at the Sunday meetings.

MEMBERS DINNER – Is monthly, and usually on the first Thursday of each month. Cliff Hagerman is your Host. The last Members' Dinner was on Thursday, May 3rd, at the King Seafood Restaurant on Walking Street. To offer suggestions for our next members' dinner or gain more information, please contact Cliff at 086-036-6753, or by email at [email protected].

BANGLAMUNG DISTRICT CROSS CULTURAL VOUNTEER GROUP – Organized by Richard Smith. The next Conversation sessions for new and returning Thai participants will begin on Monday, May 14, 2007 at the 8th floor of the Mike Shopping Mall, with classes Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6pm to 7:30pm (or later if the class wishes). For anyone interested in the program, please feel free to visit us during the class periods. You can observe, or if you wish, join us in our conversations with Thais who are very anxious to speak better English. If you would like to be part of our Volunteer Group, please complete an application and have two pictures (which we can take) to register you as a volunteer with the Banglamung District Cross Cultural Volunteer Group, and with the Banglamung District Office. For more information, please contact Richard Smith at 089-244-9523, 038-412-197, or by email at [email protected] or see Richard or Khun Sermsakdi anytime during class hours at the Mike Shopping Mall.

DRIVING LICENSE ASSISTANCE – The host is Hans (or John) Stroosnyder. Generally, a trip is arranged when there are a sufficient number of persons wanting to obtain their license(s). The date of the next trip will be announced at the Sunday Meeting, and in the Newsletter. The club web site at www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com has information on what is needed to obtain a Thai driving license along with the latest information we have on the subject – such as need for International Driving Permit to avoid the written and driving tests, and how to avoid problems with your picture (wearing the same shirt/blouse you wore for your last license picture is definitely a "no-no").

BOAT GROUP – This group, hosted by Rod, was very popular with weekly meetings on Wednesday at 11:00am on Rod's boat at Bali Hai Pier. The group became inactive after Rod leased the boat out to another party. However, he has announced that he is in the process of making arrangements with the lessees to use the boat when it is not chartered. Every THURSDAY, there will be a deep sea fishing trip departing at 6am and returning 5:30pm. The cost is 3,000 baht, which covers equipment, bait, and lunch as well as tea, coffee, and water. At last week's meeting, Rod announced that the Koh Si Chang trip was postponed to May 7th. For more information, contact him at 087-039-9353.

INFORMATION OF INTEREST – Valuable information for or of use to our fellow Expats.

RECENT VISA RENEWAL COMMENTS – For comments about visa matters, please click on the following URL - http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/modul...r=0&thold=0

FEED BACK FROM THE Open Forum and Other Assistance – At last week's Open Forum, a question was raised, but there was no one present with a complete answer. This question and the results of our inquiries follow:

QUESTION: Are there any businesses available for moving and storing furniture and other items?

ANSWER: At the meeting, Paul Back suggested going, with a Thai speaking person, to Sukhumvit where there are a lot of trucks parked, which can be hired to move anything you need. We also found there are several companies available for moving, and a few advertising storage – visit the PCEC website for a listing: http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/modul...cle&sid=900

GROUP MEDICAL COVERAGE - Group medical coverage through the PCEC is available. There are forms on the Information table, and a description of the policy, coverage, cost and application process on the website at Topic "Group Insurance for Pattaya City Expats" at

http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/appli...ce_coverage.pdf .. You will need a current PCEC discount card to obtain this coverage. A representative (Khun Neng – in a bright red shirt) of AA Insurance will periodically be at our Sunday Meeting to discuss the group insurance program, and the FAST family alert program, with you. You may also contact AA Insurance at 038 415 795-6 for detailed information.

DIALING FOR INFORMATION OR ASSISTANCE – 1337 for Pattaya (dial 1337 and then 9 for English), and 1111 for the Thai Government Ministry of Information – please see details on our website at http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/modul...cle&sid=877. If you have tried either of these numbers we would like to know what you think of their service - please email [email protected], or leave a message at 038-412-197.

PCEC DISCOUNT CARD – See Max Rommel, Treasurer, during the meeting at the table near the door for renewal or new discount card. For renewal, just give Max your expired card. For a new card, get the application form from Max – he will also need two driver's license size pictures. The card's fee of 300 baht will entitle you to discounts at restaurants listed on our website under Members' Discounts, obtain Group Hospitalization Insurance coverage for yourself and your extended family, qualify for a 10% discount on the FAST card, and obtain discounts of up to 10% on services at Bangkok Hospital Pattaya.

THE PCEC DISCOUNT AND SPECIAL BENEFITS APPLICATION FORM FOR BANGKOK HOSPITAL PATTAYA (BHP) is on the Pattaya City Expats Club website at http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/modul...cle&sid=871. If you already have a BHP card through earlier application as a PCEC member, you need not re-apply. See the information at the internet address above to apply. The BHP ID card alone will greatly speed up your check-in to the hospital (especially helpful when you are hurting), and the verification of the cardholder as a PCEC member will get you the 10% discount on room rates, medication and prescribed drugs, and 5% off on dental work, plus notices of discounts on special services offered throughout the year.

PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB WEBSITE – There is a wealth of information at our website - www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com. We are constantly adding new information to all the Topics on our website. So, please visit often. The easiest way to get the information you want is to click on SEARCH, enter the word or word that describe what you are looking for, and click on Search in the box, and review the articles that show up. Americans will be interested in the availability of income tax preparation service. We were recently apprised of a firm in Bangkok that provides this service – see http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/modul...cle&sid=887.

PICTURES OF PAST EVENTS - You can view the photo album of the PCEC's trips and activities over the last two years on the Webshots website at http://community.webshots.com/user/rick2d1 (copy the address to your address box, or hold down the Ctrl key and click on the address). Photos may be viewed, seen as a slideshow, or downloaded from the site. This year's photos of club activities can be viewed, copied or downloaded only at Picasa Albums (we changed because it is so much easier to upload pictures to Picasa Albums) at http://picasaweb.google.com/rick2mail.

I THINK YOU MISSED OUT THE KNITTING CIRCLE AND FRIDAY NIGHT BINGO.....BORING....GET OUT AND HAVE SOME FUN ...THIS IS PATTAYA....AND REMEMBER THERE IS NO "EXTRA TIME" AT THE END OF THIS MATCH...LIVE EVERY DAY ETC.............

[lemel]

I THINK YOU MISSED OUT THE KNITTING CIRCLE AND FRIDAY NIGHT BINGO.....BORING....GET OUT AND HAVE SOME FUN ...THIS IS PATTAYA....AND REMEMBER THERE IS NO "EXTRA TIME" AT THE END OF THIS MATCH...LIVE EVERY DAY ETC.............

This was for the benifit of the OP not what I do or want to do, as I already have a busy life. He wanted info I gave him info! what did you bring to the table?? apart from a SHOUTED sarkey comment!!

[Rimmer]

Inflammatory post deleted.

[Guderian]

If you're British you could try doing an Open University course. I know a guy who's doing one in astronomy - he loves it, but it will take him (I think he said) something like 10 years to complete it. Keeps your mind active and gives you a sense of achievement.

[JimsKnight]

Get on your bike and ride man!

A break from patters is just the thing to blow away the cobwebs

You've got lakes, clubs, cities, towns and villages crammed with potholes.

Navy bases, countryside and cool people.

Just get out there and don't have a plan just go with the flow!

[barrybike]

Get on your bike and ride man!

A break from patters is just the thing to blow away the cobwebs

You've got lakes, clubs, cities, towns and villages crammed with potholes.

Navy bases, countryside and cool people.

Just get out there and don't have a plan just go with the flow!

agree with that......

[ballzafire]

Take up computer gaming, particularly over the internet against other players.

You'll forget what day it is...