In fact, the opening of yet another fitness club didn't stir a huge amount of media attention. Among the dozens of reporters crammed the press conference room at GMM Grammy headquarters yesterday, maybe only one or two were really interested in the fitness club. The rest were intensely curious to interview Paiboon, who has kept a low profile ever since GMM Grammy's aborted attempt to take over Matichon.

The reporters had one burning question. Speculation is currently running wild that GMM Grammy might take over iTV. The takeover makes sense. Paiboon is a close friend of caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Moreover, if GMM Grammy does decide to snatch up iTV, it would clear the crucial hurdle about the nationality of the TV company after Shin Corp, the majority stake owner, was acquired by Temasek Holdings, an investment arm of Singaporean government.

Meanwhile, iTV shareholders were dismayed by the Tuesday ruling of the Administrative Court, which demanded that the TV channel adjust its programming to more educational shows, reversing its move into pure and lucrative entertainment.

The press conference was conducted by Catareya Wright, GMM's business partner in operating the fitness club. It was held on the AA Floor of GMM Grammy Place on Sukhumvit 21. Paiboon was supposed to co-chair the press conference, but Catareya was left alone on stage.

Reporters waited hopefully, wandering around the GMM Grammy office to catch sight of Paiboon, but he was nowhere to be seen.

One reporter asked public relations staff about Paiboon's whereabouts. They replied that Paiboon was feeling sick.

These reporters ardently hope that Paiboon will get well soon.

Smiles for all at Money Expo

At the Money Expo 2006, Kasikornbank has launched a special package that the bank claims will make new home-loan customers smile. The programme is called the "Smiley Package". First, borrowers are treated with a "Welcome Smile Package" - a set of interior decoration books. Then, they get a "Smiles for Everybody Service" - free advice on home-care stuff like gardening.

Jeerawat@nationgroup.com