Gaybutton

Maybe so, but a few years ago when I had to replace my own passport, the chief of the American Citizens Services section of the USA embassy in Bangkok personally told me that once an American passport is reported lost or stolen, it is useless to anyone. Maybe they stole yours, but that just isn't making any sense to me, not only in light of what I was told, but also in light of the fact that if they were stealing people's passports, then complaints would have been publicized long before now. It doesn't make any sense to me that they would have had a reason to single out yours. The 'lost it and won't bother to try to find it' idea makes much more sense to me. But no matter what happened, nothing alters the fact that it's gone and you had to go through a lot of hassle and expense to get a new one. That should serve as a warning to anyone reading this thread.

The following appears in THE NATION: _____ Briton Gets 14 Year Jail Term for Having Sex with 2 Underage Boys The Ratchadapisek Criminal Court Monday sentenced a 47-year-old Briton to a 14-year jail term for luring two underage boys and molesting them. According to the lawsuit, defendant Robert John Alexander Hoseman allegedly lured the two 12 year olds in Chon Buri's Bang Lamung district in late 2004 and performed oral sex on them. Hoseman, however, denied any wrongdoing, claiming that the boys had consented to the sexual act. After considering evidence from both sides, the court found Hoseman guilty and sentenced him to 14 years in jail - of which 12 are for molesting children under the age of 15 and two for luring minors away from their parents.

The following appears in the BANGKOK POST: _____ UDD Blood Drawing Starts Tonight Published: 15/03/2010 at 04:10 PM The United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship has contacted five hospitals for medical staff and equipment to help take blood donations from the red-shirt protesters, UDD core member Arisman Pongruangrong said on Monday. The UDD has announced it will draw one million cubic centimetres (cc) of blood from red-shirt volunters and pour it on the ground around Government House. Ministers would then have to walk on the people's blood to get to work. The announcement followed Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva's rejection this morning of their demand for an immediate House dissolution and a general election. Mr Arisman said the UDD had asked for 20-30 medical staff from each hospital. The protesters would be first asked to donate 10cc of blood, starting on Monday night. UDD leaders would donate their blood on morning, said Mr Arisman, who said would give 50cc. "Donating of 10cc of blood would not be harmful to health," he said. A source said the Thai Red Cross Society, if asked, would not be able to help take blood from the protesters for a protest. It would assist only when blood is donated for other people, or taken for a health examination. ____________________ I hope the hospitals feel the same as the Red Cross, although they might cooperate in the idea that it is better to have this done professionally than by people who don't know what they're doing. Of course, even if the hospitals cooperate, what about the issue as to what will be done with the blood? Do hospitals even have the spare staff and equipment to draw blood from that many people? I've seen idiotic ideas before and I'll see them again, but this one should get some sort of stupidity award.

There is quite a bit of commentary about this on the Thai Visa forum: Red-shirts To Splash One Million Cc Of Blood On Govt House - Thailand Forum

Here's the latest - The following appears in the BANGKOK POST: _____ Reds to Scatter Blood at Govt House Published: 15/03/2010 at 02:12 PM United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) cofre leader Natthawut Saikua has announced that he will take one million cc's of blood from protesters and scatter it around Government House on Tuesday, a day after Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva refused to bow to the group's demand for a general election. The drawing of blood will take place at 8am on Tuesday, according to Mr Natthawut. The blood would be taken from 100,000 volunteers, including protest leaders, he said. This would be a symbolic action. Cabinet ministers would have to walk over the protesters' blood when they enter Government House to work, he said. If the government still refuses to dissolve the House, then another million cc's of blood will be spilt at the Democrat Party headquarters, he added. The next target would Mr Abhisit's house, he said. ____________________ And this, from THE NATION: _____ Laos Issues Warning on Travel to Thailand Vientiane - The Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a travel warning for Thailand, especially to Bangkok where a mass protest was underway this weekend, media reports said Monday. The ministry warned the general public, officials, business people and students to avoid traveling to Thailand while the Internal Security Act is still in force, the Vientiane Times reported. The Thai government has placed Bangkok and parts of the capital's seven surrounding provinces under the security act from March 11-23 in anticipation of possible violence from protests. An estimated 100,000 protesters gathered in the capital this weekend in an effort to force the government of Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to resigns and call for new elections. About 30 countries have issued travel warnings to their citizens to avoid Thailand, especially Bangkok, if possible this month. The Lao Foreign Ministry also warned its citizens working in Bangkok not to go to the areas where the protests are taking place. There are an estimated 120,000 Lao nationals working as labourers in Thailand, which boasts a much bigger more successful economy than its communist neighbour but a less stable political system. Laos has been under singe-party communist rule since December, 1975. Protests and other signs of political unrest are unheard of in the land-locked country of about 6 million people.

This just in: The following appears in the BANGKOK POST: _____ Red Shirts Returning to Ratchadamnern Published: 15/03/2010 at 12:46 PM The red-shirt people gathering in front of the 11th Infantry Regiment on Phahon Yothin road have been told by their leader Veera Musikaong to head back to their main rally site on Ratchadamnern avenue. Mr Veera, one of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship's core leaders, made an announcement through loudspeakers from the top of a truck telling the red shirts to return to the Ratchadamnern avenue where UDD leaders would ponder their next moves to mount pressure on the government. Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said in his televised speech from the peace-keeping operation centre in the 11the Infantry Regiment at about 10am, long before the arrival of red shirts, that he would not give in to the UDD's House dissolution demand, citing support from other parties in the coalition. Shortly after making his speech, the prime minister left the peace-keeping centre in a helicopter

There wasn't supposed to be a day 4, but the Red-Shirts are continuing and gave an ultimatum to Prime Minister Abhisit that he must dissolve the current Thai government by noon today or face the consequences of the Red-Shirts escalating their rally. Noon has come and gone and Abhisit has made it clear that he has no intention of giving in to these demands. According to estimates published in various news articles, the Red-Shirt numbers are somewhere between about 80,000 to 100,000 protesters and I seriously doubt those numbers are anywhere near sufficient to bring down the government. I still believe it is going to be more bluster, threats, and hype than anything else, although the numbers are sufficient to cause traffic chaos in Bangkok. So far it has all been peaceful and to my knowledge nobody has been hurt. We will see if it stays that way. Meanwhile, whatever is taking place, it's all in Bangkok. In Pattaya everything is perfectly normal and without reading about it in the media or watching it on television, you wouldn't know anything is going on at all. The following appears in the BANGKOK POST: _____ PM Rejects UDD Demand, Rallies Continue Published: 15/03/2010 Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has rejected the red-shirt ultimatum to agree to dissolve the House by noon on Monday or face mass anti-government demonstrations. Mr Abhisit said on national television about 10am on Monday, two hours before the deadline, that he would not bow the demand of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD). "The protesters have demanded that I dissolve the House before midday today, but the coalition parties agree that the demand cannot be met," he said. His statement came as thousands of red-shirt protesters this morning marched on the 11th Infantry Regiment, where Mr Abhisit has been staying since the protest began, to demand an answer to their 24-hour ultimatum. Mr Abhisit reported to have flown out of the compound by helicopter after he issued the statement. The protesters left the Phan Fa bridge around 9am and planned to arrive at the barracks by midday to hear the prime minister's answer. "Midday today is the final hour we give Abhisit and his government. Abhisit says he won't dissolve the House, but with the people power today he will have to reconsider," said protest leader Natthawut Saikua, before the crowd departed. The protesters travelled in convoy to the barracks in trucks, buses, cars and pick-up trucks, promising non-violence and vowing to return to the main rally site after their doorstop. "We will come back here. We'll keep fighting," Mr Natthawut told the cheering red-clad crowd before it departed. Chiefs of state security units reportedly gathered at the 11th Infantry Regiment in Bangkok’s Bangkhen district in the morning to discuss measures to deal with red-shirt protesters. Defence Minister Gen Prawit Wongsuwon, army chief Gen Anupong Paojinda and acting police chief Pol Gen Prateep Tanprasert were reported to have arrived at the military camp about 9am. They did not give any interview with reporters. Gen Anupong had on Sunday ordered troops providing protection at the 11th Infantry Regiment to refrain from using force to deal with the red-shirts. Army spokesman Sunsern Kaewkumnerd said about 2,000 soldiers were manning the 11th infantry army barracks, with three helicopters on standby to whisk leaders away if needed. "We will push out the protesters if they trespass into the base. The final step is that rubber bullets would be fired at them, but the army has no wish to disperse the demonstration," Col Sunsern said. The red-shirts had dubbed their rally a "million man march" but police estimated their numbers reached only 86,000. Protest leaders gave various figures, all far higher than 100,000. Authorities have deployed a 50,000-strong security force including soldiers and riot police across Bangkok and surrounding provinces for the rally, having invoked the Internal Security Act that allows the military to ban gatherings and impose curfews. ____________________ And this, from THE NATION: _____ Red Shirts March for Reply on House Dissolution Red shirts protesters on Monday march to the 11th Infantry Regiment in Bangkhen where the premier is inside to push for reply on House Dissolution. noon : A red shirts leader; Arisamun Pongruengrong, says the rally in front of the regiment would end at 2pm and the protesters would move back to Pan Fah Bridge. 11am : Public Health Ministry upgrades emergency service to a highest level following the red-shirts march to the peacekeeping operations command in Bangkhen. The ministry prepares extra beds, bloods and rescue cars in case of emergency. The upgrading is announced after it evaluates that the number of the protesters exceeds 50,000. 10.40am : Rear of the red shirts' procession is still at Sanam Luang while its head already occupied Paholyothin Road in front of the 11th Infantry Regiment. 10.20am : Red shrits arrive of the 11th Infantry Regiment in Bang Khen. Their rally almost paralyse Paholyothin Road near Prasimahatat Temple. 10.10am : Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva says in a special television programme that red-shirt leaders used false information to incite protesters to clash with the authorities. He said the red-shirt leaders had been using doctored audio clips during the rally Sunday night to try to deceive the protesters that he ordered the use of force against them. The premier insists the government had no plan to use force against the protesters and the enforcement of the Internal Security Act was aimed at keeping law and order, not for suppressing the protesters. 10am : Abhisit announces the government could not give in to the protesters' demand for House dissolution. He insisted the demand could not be met before the deadline expires at noon Monday. He said his government would also have to heed opinions of other groups of people in the society. The prime minister was speakigng to a press conference after a meeting with leaders of coalition partners. He said all coalition partners reached the common stand that the protesters' demand for House dissolution could not be met. 9.44am : The first part of the red-shirt procession from Phan Fa Bridge reach the 11th Infantry Regiment in Bang Khen. They arrived mostly on motorcycles and some pick-up trucks. The regiment announced through loudspeakers to try to calm down the protesters while playing songs composed by His Majesty the King. 9am : The front part of the red-shirt procession from Phan Fa Bridge reached the Lard Prao Intersection on their way to the 11th Infantry Regiment in Bang Khen, TNN Channel reported. The front part is comprised of protesters on motorcycles. They stopped at the Intersection to wait for other protesters, who were travelling on pick-up trucks and other vehicles from Pan Fa rally site. The protesters plan to reach the 11th Infantry Regiment at noon when the 24-hour deadline for the government to dissolve the House expires. 7.45am : The Metropolitan Police Bureau advises motorists to avoid the Phechaburi Road, Victory Monument and the Phaholyothin Road as protests were heading to the 11th Infantry Regiment in Bang Khen to defy the Army. Pol Maj Gen Phanu Kerdlarppol, deputy metropolitan police chief, said the red-shirt protesters were moving the Pan Fah Bridge to Bang Khen, using Phetchaburi Road, passing through the Victory Monument and Phaholyothin Road, and could cause traffic snarls on the road. He says traffic congestions could spill to Ramkhamhaeng and Ladprao roads.

That is correct. There is no pool. Maybe they have an arrangement with the Avalon Hotel next door or perhaps you can make your own arrangement for a fee. Of course you are also within easy distance of one of the biggest pools of all, Pattaya Park.

Fountainhall, you are confusing a will with a Wii. A Wii is a gaming system: Wii at Nintendo

'Mission: Impossible' Actor Peter Graves Dead at 83 March 15, 2010 Los Angeles, California (CNN) -- Actor Peter Graves, best known for his starring role on TV's "Mission: Impossible," died Sunday. He was 83. While the cause of the actor's death was not immediately known, he apparently suffered a heart attack, his publicist said. Graves had gone to brunch with his family Sunday morning. After they returned home and entered the house, one of his daughters began to wonder why he hadn't come back inside with them, said publicist Sandy Brokaw. The family went outside and found Graves had collapsed. His daughter performed CPR but was unsuccessful in reviving the actor, Brokaw said. Graves had been in good health and was celebrating 60 years of marriage and 60 years in the entertainment business. He was still pursuing work when he died, the publicist said. He is best known for playing the character Jim Phelps for all but one of the seven years "Mission: Impossible" ran on CBS, from 1967-1973. He won a Golden Globe in 1971 for his work on the show, and was also nominated for an Emmy. He reprised the role from 1988 to 1990 when the show resurfaced on ABC. In an interview with CNN in 1996, Graves expressed disappointment with Hollywood's movie version of "Mission: Impossible" -- starring Tom Cruise -- which included none of the stars from the original TV series. Actor Jon Voight played the Phelps character. "I am sorry that they chose to call him Phelps," he said at the time. "They could have solved that very easily by either having me in a scene in the very beginning, or reading a telegram from me saying, 'Hey boys, I'm retired, gone to Hawaii. Thank you, goodbye, you take over now.' " Graves also appeared as Capt. Clarence Oveur in the 1980 movie spoof "Airplane!" -- a role he originally turned down, according to the Web's Internet Movie Database. He changed his mind after meeting with the film's writers, according to IMDb. In recent years, Graves was part of a larger group that won an Outstanding Informational Series Emmy for the 1997 TV documentary "Judy Garland: Beyond the Rainbow." Graves hosted the documentary. He is survived by his wife, Joan Endress, and three daughters, Kelly, Claudia and Amanda Graves, according to IMDb. Graves was the younger brother of actor James Arness, who starred in the long-running TV series "Gunsmoke," as Marshal Matt Dillon.

I'm beginning to wonder if any have been reported at all.

I can understand them misplacing it and not bothering to try to find it, but I doubt they intentionally stole your passport. Why would they? I think it's much more likely that it got lost in the shuffle and they're just not bothering to try to find it for you. Either way, you're best bet is to try to find alternatives to using the mail system.

Yes, I am curious. I am also curious about what city you are referring to. You didn't say.

A total fiasco for me? Ok . . . . Meanwhile, on this board you are supposed to cite your source, which of course you did not. I would also greatly enjoy you showing us a post in which I ever claimed to be an expert about anything. The following appears in the BANGKOK POST: _____ Red-Shirt Leaders Formally Demand House dissolution Published: 14/03/2010 at 02:15 PM The United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship on Sunday issued a formal statement from the main stage at Phan Fa bridge demanding that the government dissolve the House of Representatives within 24 hours or face mass street demonstrations. The statement, read by UDD leader Veera Musikhapong, said that since the Sept 19, 2006 coup that toppled the government of Thaksin Shinawatra, the country had been under a dictatorship. "We're asking the government to relinquish power and return it to the people," he said. Mr Veera threatened that the group would spread their protests across the capital in coming days if their demands are not met. He said the present government was in fact a dictatorship under another name and the red-shirts did not believe it could be in the people's best interests. "However, the demonstrators will not mobilise to other areas in the next 24 hours," he said in the afternoon. Natthawut Saikua, a UDD leader, said the red-shirts would not negotiate with Korbsak Sabhavasu, the prime minister's secretary-general, but would be glad to do so with Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban or Newin Chidchob, the de factor leader of the Bhumjaithai Party. Roads leading to Ratchadamnern avenue, the main venue for the rally, have been closed to ensure more effective control of the situation, Metropolitan Police spokesman Pol Col Piya Uthayo said on Sunday. They include roads in the vicinity of Government House, Wat Benjamabopit, First Infantry Division, the Royal Plaza, Suan Misakawan, and Mawan Rangsan bridges. Pol Col Piya said nine more police companies had been deployed, raising the number of police maintaining law and order at the rally site to 42 companies. More troops were also sent to reinforce the 11th Infantry Regiment, in Bang Khen district, where the government's peacekeeping operation command is situated, on Sunday. Army spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd said an additional 20 companies of unarmed soldiers were deployed to protect the 11th Infantry Regiment compound against any invasion by red-shirts. Col Sansern said army chief Anupong Paojinda had ordered the reinforcements following the announcement by UDD leaders that they would lead their followers to rally outside the regimental grounds at noon. Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva again reiterated during his weekly television broadcast in the morning that he had no intention of using force against the protesters rallying in Bangkok. "I want to reassure people that the government has no plans to crack down on protesters. The government will not benefit from doing that," he said. He also refused to bend to the protesters' demand, saying: "I have the right to complete my term." A 50,000-strong security force has been deployed under the Internal Security Act to keep the supporters of convicted former premier Thaksin Shinawatra under control, amid fears that some of them could become violent.

His spelling seems to me to be far better than I see coming from a great many who are native English speakers . . .

I don't think there needs to be one. The AP article above says, "Recent polls in Bangkok indicate a large segment of the population, irrespective of their political beliefs, is fed up with the protests . . ." I believe that is truly the case. Obviously this demonstration attracted far less people than had been hoped for and anticipated. I think what will happen is participants will get tired of it and except for the die-hards, will trickle back home. These people do have lives where they came from and most will need to get back to those lives. I think future rallies will be set up less often and will attract less people. I think the Red-Shirt leadership will rethink their strategy and try again at some future date. I also think the reality is the majority of Red-Shirt supporters, while believing in their cause, also think they are fighting a losing battle and there is nothing more they can do that can bring about serious results until the next Prime Minister election. I still believe I was correct from the beginning, in that this whole thing will amount to a big nothing. I believe this was Thaksin's last major hurrah. The following appears in the BANGKOK POST: _____ Poll: Red Rally Benefits Just One Man Published: 14/03/2010 at 10:54 AM Nearly 60 per cent of polled people thought the anti-government rally by red-shirts was just for the benefit of only one person, Dusit poll at Rajabhat Suan Dusit University concluded on Sunday morning. The pollsters asked 1,090 people in Bangkok and other seven nearby provinces, where the Internal Security Act is being invoked, from March 12 to 13, about the invocation of the security law and the red-shirts rally. Regarding the red-shirts rally, 30.71 per cent of the respondents said it made foreigners think that Thais do not love each other and that Thailand is unsafe country, 24.08 per cent considered the rally had caused hardship to people living near rally sites, 23.42 per cent said it attracted interest of the media worldwide, 13.83 per cent pointed out that it made police and military troops work hard, and 7.96 per cent said the red-shirts have constitutional right to call for justice. Asked about the media they used to follow up the situation, 68.87 per cent said television, 12.29 per cent newspaper, 9.81 per cent internet and SMS, 4.72 per cent radio, and 4.31 per cent said they were told by friends and relatives. Asked what kind of report they preferred, 48.11 per cent said real-time reporting with backup footages, 34.71 per cent preferred sufficient information, precise and unbiased news coverage, 17.18 per cent wanted to see an interview with important people, such as PM, red-shirts leaders and fugitive former prime minister Thaksin Shinwatra. Asked whether the red-shirts rally was a democratic expression, 57.14 per cent said it was not as it was made for one person and it was a political game to topple the government, 23.81 per cent said it was a true democratic expression and the red-shirts have constitutional right to do so, 19.05 per cent were unsure. Asked what the people in Bangkok and the seven provinces should do during the rally, 37.20 per cent said staying at home and follow the situation, 30.32 said they would help the government in spotting for any suspicious things and persons, 15.80 per cent said they would not come out to observe the rally as it would be dangerous, 9.47 per cent said they would not express opinion in public places, and 7.21 per cent said they would hurry finish there outside businesses. Asked about consequences of the rally, 27.30 said it damaged the country

Supposedly, today is the final day of the Red-Shirt Rally. However, despite the "rules" the Red-Shirt leaders say they will not end things today and will press on until the current government topples. If that occurs, then tomorrow could be when the real trouble starts, especially if the troops are called out to try to disperse the protesters. According to news reports, about 80,000 to 100,000 Red-Shirts are in Bangkok now for the protest. I didn't think that many would show up, so I concede I was wrong about that. However, unless 10 times as many people show up today, then that's hardly the million protesters the Red-Shirt leadership had predicted and hoped for. Both sides have promised no violence. What happens next if the Red-Shirts don't get what they want? The following appears in the BANGKOK POST: _____ Up to 80,000 Rally, Ready for High Noon RED SHIRT LEADERS TO ISSUE ULTIMATUM TO GOVERNMENT AT MIDDAY AMID THREATS PROTEST COULD SPREAD ACROSS CITY Published: 14/03/2010 The countdown for the showdown between the red shirts and the government will start today when the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) gives Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva an ultimatum to dissolve the House. If the deadline fails, the UDD will up the pressure by spreading their protests within a 20-kilometre radius of their main site on Ratchadamnoen Avenue, said one of its leaders, Jatuporn Prompan, who was confident that victory would be achieved within one week. Government House, the Si Sao Thewes residence of Privy Council president Prem Tinsulanonda, the parliament and Suvarnabhumi airport will not be the targets, according to the UDD. One of its rallies is planned at the 11th Infantry Regiment in Bang Khen district, which houses the peacekeeping operation command. At noon on Sunday, key UDD leaders will spell out their deadline for the government to accept their demands. Supporters of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra from the provinces converged on Ratchadamnoen Avenue last night where a stage has been set up at Phan Fa Bridge. Pol Maj Gen Prawut Thavornsiri of the Royal Thai Police estimated the number of demonstrators at the bridge at no more than 80,000 last night. But more are expected to come today, including some who will arrive in Bangkok by boat. Sources at the peacekeeping operation command believe the number of protesters will reach 100,000 or more today. In a bid to ease growing tension between the UDD and security forces, Korbsak Sabhavasu, secretary to the prime minister, talked with leading UDD figure Weng Tojirakarn yesterday and said the government was ready to reduce the number of troops at the rally site by putting more police on duty. An intelligence source said the government was considering invoking emergency law if the situation gets out of control. The peacekeeping operation command at the 11th Infantry Regiment could be moved to the Supreme Command headquarters if protesters block the military compound in Bang Khen, the source added. Mr Abhisit thanked all parties for keeping the arrival of the demonstrators and their demonstration peaceful and promised the government was trying to ensure it would continue in an orderly way. The prime minister urged demonstrators to cooperate with government officials for their own safety and prevent any party from starting unrest. He urged people to inform security staff if they see anyone dressing like police or soldiers and carrying arms among the demonstrators. "Government officials will not fight anyone but will maintain order," he said, and denied plans to attack demonstration leaders or supporters. "We respect constitutional rights. If people exercise constitutional rights, we cannot end their legitimate movements. But if the boundaries of the demonstration under the constitution are breached, provoking violence or legal violations, then we must do our duty by taking legal action to maintain order," said Mr Abhisit. Thaksin yesterday told his supporters to stay put as the rally to topple the government would be a long one. In a surprise 10-minute phone-in to the UDD's main stage, Thaksin thanked the demonstrators for joining the calls for justice and fighting against the elite bureaucracy, or amataya. "The more you come out, the more I want to fight. I'm so grateful to all of you and I'll go back [to Thailand] to pay you back," he said while calling for unity and patience from his followers. He also attacked the Democrat Party-led government, telling the cheering crowd: "They came to power with the help of the coup-makers and the amataya." Yesterday red shirt supporters from the North and Northeast travelled in pick-up trucks, vans, buses and big trucks to the capital. Police and troops searched all vehicles for weapons and demanded demonstrators show their ID cards before letting the convoys move on. Red shirt demonstrators cooperated with authorities. Col Sansern Kaewkamnerd, the army spokesman, said security authorities decided to compromise by letting red-clad demonstrators travel in their vehicles to Bangkok to prevent traffic congestion resulting from confrontations between the demonstrators and ordinary motorists. Three red shirts in Pathum Thani were sent to hospital yesterday, the Emergency Medical Institute of Thailand reported. The three cases included two injuries caused by brawling and one person who passed out due to dehydration and heat when the rally started on Friday, said Public Health Minister Jurin Laksanavisit. Mr Jurin, who also chairs the medical and public health centre dealing with unexpected emergencies during the rally, said the centre still categorised the rally at level three, which means the number of red shirt supporters in the city was expected to be more than 50,000 and that the situation could be severe. Hospitals in the city and neighbouring areas were fully prepared and on high alert for emergencies, he said. Mr Jurin, however, called on parents to avoid bringing their children to the rally site. Any outbreak of violence could affect their mental health in the long term, he said. __________ And this, also from the BANGKOK POST: _____ Bombs, Bike Menace Seen as Chief Threats RALLY STRIFE RISKS ASSESSED 14/03/2010 Bombs, grenades and wild men on motorcycles have been identified as the most likely sources of trouble during today's red rally. Security authorities are worried that violence could break out tonight, as the mass rally by the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship reaches a head. They have narrowed down potential threats to three scenarios. The peacekeeping operation command, which is monitoring the red rally, believes violence could be triggered tonight by protesters who could plant bombs, toss grenades or mobilise groups of motorcyclists to stir up turmoil, a source on the panel said yesterday. The 1st Army Region has been ordered to deploy troops from the rapid deployment force of the 31st Infantry Regiment in Lop Buri to monitor the situation in Bangkok. It will also reinforce guards at important places such as Government House, Ratchadamnoen Avenue and the Si Sao Theves residence of Privy Council president Prem Tinsulanonda. Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban, Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon, Korbsak Sabhavasu, who is secretary-general to the prime minister, army chief Anupong Paojinda and senior army figures attended the operation command's meeting yesterday. Mr Suthep, who is in charge of the command at the 11th Infantry Regiment in Bang Khen, said one area of concern was the use of motorcycles by red shirt supporters of ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra to stir up turmoil. UDD leaders are rallying to oust the government, but say it will be peaceful. Police yesterday seized 300 parts of M79 grenade launchers from a factory in Wang Noi district, Ayutthaya. Police arrested 39 workers from the factory, and factory owner Choedyot Jirawattanakul, 31. Suspects would be charged with illegally producing war weapons, Ayutthaya police said. Mr Choedyot admitted his factory had delivered over 1,000 of the parts - triggering devices for grenade launchers - to arms traffickers. Chief of Police Region 1 Pol Lt Gen Krissada Pankongchuen said investigators were looking into the case and have not concluded that the seizure is linked to the red shirt demonstration. The Central Investigation Bureau yesterday obtained an arrest warrant against UDD leader Arisman Pongruengrong on charges of inciting violence, said CIB chief Pol Lt Gen Tha-ngai Pratsajaksatru. The People's Alliance for Democracy lodged a complaint with the CIB on Monday. It said Mr Arisman incited people at a rally in front of army headquarters on Jan 29, and in Khon Kaen on Jan 31, to cause trouble for the government. UDD leader Nattawut Saikua said Mr Arisman would turn himself in on April 1. He intended to stay with the demonstrators for now. ____________________ And this, from THE NATION: _____ Govt Likely to Enforce State of Emergency on top of ISA By THE NATION Published on March 14, 2010 The government will likely enforce a state-of-emergency decree today to cope with the escalating security problem in Bangkok after tens of thousands of provincial protesters arrived in the city yesterday. A state of emergency, which would be on top on the current implementation of the Internal Security Act (ISA), would empower the military to fully take charge of the situation. Under the ISA, soldiers can only help the police in maintaining law and order. Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva is expected to hold an emergency Cabinet meeting before the emergency decree is used, according to a senior government source. Red shirts rallying for "democracy" yesterday threatened a mass march on Abhisit's hold-out if he does not dissolve the House of Representatives by noon today. Tens of thousands of protesters gathering from across the country at the main rally stage on Rajdamnoen Avenue were prepared to lay siege to the Army's 11th Infantry Regiment on Phaholyothin, where the premier is temporarily billeted and manning a "war room". Many demonstrators from the Northeast, North and other parts of the country arrived in Bangkok yesterday, with their numbers expected to swell past 100,000 today, said Tawil Pliensri, secretary-general of the National Security Council. Jatuporn Promphan, a key leader of the anti-government movement, said that at this stage they had no plan to march to Government House, Parliament House or the house of Privy Council President Prem Tinsulanonda. Natthawut Saikua, the red-shirt spokesman, said today would see more arrivals from central, eastern and western provinces as well as from around Bangkok. "We're still confident the count will reach 1 million," he said. Veera Musikapong, another leader, will address the rally today and deliver an ultimatum for Abhisit to dissolve the House and call a snap election. "If Abhisit ignores our demand, we'll step up the protest by marching on Bangkok's streets and urge more people to join our campaign for House dissolution," Natthawut said. The red shirts expect a successful conclusion before the week is out. "Altogether, we do not plan to stay more than seven days. I guess we could have a victory within four days," Jatuporn said. Korkaew Pikulthong, another leader, said disbanding the House was the only solution to the current crisis, nothing less. "If Abhisit resigns, then Chuan Leekpai, chairman of the Democrat Party's advisory council, would likely be his replacement. In this case, we will continue to protest. We want the government to return power to the people via a new election. "If there are more than 500,000 protesters, I think Abhisit will have to dissolve the House and every party should reach an understanding to accept the outcome of the new poll so that the country can move forward. "Representatives of all the stakeholders, including General Prem, president of the Privy Council, Abhisit, General Anupong [Paochinda, Army chief], Sonthi Limtongkul [of the yellow-shirt movement] as well as General Chavalit [Yongchaiyudh, chairman of the Pheu Thai Party] and Veera Musikapong and Thaksin Shinawatra should also enter into this agreement," he said. Police plan to dispatch 3,700 reinforcements to keep law and order during the red shirts' show of force in Bangkok. Metropolitan Police spokesman Maj-General Piya Uthayo said police estimated some 40,000 red shirts had assembled in Bangkok yesterday, with more to join last night and today. Authorities would be on guard for any sabotage during the night, he said. Acting Government Spokesman Panitan Wattanayagorn said a huge turnout by the red shirts was still not beyond expectations. Authorities would exercise special care around the protest site, mainly on Rajdamnoen Avenue, and the residences of important figures in order to prevent any unfortunate incidents. Abhisit expects the build-up of protesters to peak today. Authorities now will focus on preventing any extreme incidents, he said. Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban said authorities would use no force as long as the protesters did not break the law. If they started blocking roads or breaking into government buildings or trashing private property, authorities would disperse the troublemakers, he added. ____________________ And this, from AP: _____ Thai "Red Shirts" Rally for Ousted Leader Thousands Converge on Bangkok, Calling for Dissolution of Government, Return of Prime Minister Deposed in Coup (AP) Thousands of red-shirted anti-government protesters converged on the Thai capital Bangkok on Saturday, giving the government an ultimatum to dissolve Parliament or face mass marches on key spots in the city. Although protest leaders stressed they would not resort to violence in their quest to oust the government, many businesses closed, social events were canceled, and Bangkok's normally chaotic traffic was unusually light. A force of 50,000 soldiers, police and other security personnel was mobilized in the capital area. The "million-man march," which protest leaders said would end on Wednesday, is regarded by some as the last chance for ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to return to Thailand. The "Red Shirt" protesters, formally known as the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship, are made up of followers of Thaksin, along with other people who oppose the 2006 military coup that toppled him. Forcing the government out of power, Thaksin loyalists say, could pave the way for his pardon and return. Thaksin, who resides in Dubai, faces a two-year prison term for abuse of power. Thousands of protesters arrived in the sprawling capital on Saturday after travelling in trucks, buses and motorcycles from the Thaksin heartland - the impoverished rural northeast and the north where the fugitive leader was born. There were no reports of violence. Thailand has been in a state of constant political turmoil since early 2006, when demonstrations accusing Thaksin of corruption and abuse of power began. In 2008, when Thaksin's political allies came back to power for a year, his opponents occupied the prime minister's office compound for three months and seized Bangkok's two airports for a week. Recent polls in Bangkok indicate a large segment of the population, irrespective of their political beliefs, is fed up with the protests, which have battered the economy, including the lucrative tourism industry. The Red Shirts have vowed to keep their protest nonviolent - and some in Bangkok carried roses that they handed to policemen. "If there is any violence it won't come from our side," said Nattawut Sai-kua, a Red Shirt leader. "Since this morning, no weapons have been found on any Red Shirt demonstrators making their way from upcountry into Bangkok." However, the group's last major protest in Bangkok in April deteriorated into rioting that left two people dead, more than 120 people injured, and buses burned on major thoroughfares. The army was called in to quash the unrest. Many embassies have warned their citizens to stay away from areas of the city where violence could erupt.

Religion has actually convinced people that there's an invisible man who lives in the sky who watches everything you do, every minute of every day. And the invisible man has a special list of ten things he does not want you to do. And if you do any of these ten things, he has a special place, full of fire and smoke and burning and torture and anguish, where he will send you to live and suffer and burn and choke and scream and cry forever and ever 'til the end of time! But He loves you. - George Carlin

Peripheral demonstrations were expected in Pattaya. There were none. Also, I comment on Pattaya because that's where I am. There have been Red-Shirt problems here before and I don't see a thing in the world wrong with letting people know whether there is any trouble here this time too. There's also nothing wrong with saying nothing is happening in Khon Kaen. Some people expected this to cause chaos throughout the entire country. I wish people present in Thailand, no matter where they are, would post whatever they see, even if they see nothing happening at all where they are. By the way, an arrest warrant has now been issued against Red-Shirt leader Arisaman Pongruangrong, accused of inciting riots during a speech he made on January 31. Where did he make that speech? At a Red-Shirt rally . . . in Khon Kaen.

That's right and it was perfectly obvious to everyone, and that includes voldemar. Just disregard anything he posts. Only a troll who comes out of the woodwork every once in a while to post garbage.

In addition to the following articles, I found myself stuck in a major traffic jam on Sukhumvit today, between Pattaya Klang and Pattaya Tai. I managed to make a U-Turn, get out of it, and return home. I made that turn long before I was close enough to see what was causing it. It could have been a Red-Shirt thing. It could also have been caused by an accident or something else. Other than that, it again appeared to be a perfectly normal day in Pattaya. The following appears in the PATTAYA DAILY NEWS: for photos, see: http://www.pattayadailynews.com/en/2010/03/12/rebel-rousing-red-shirts-tour-pattaya-en-route-to-bangkok-demo/ _____ Red Shirts Contingent Tour Pattaya En Route To Bangkok Pattaya, 12 March, 2010, [PDN]: Early this afternoon, Mrs. Jureeporn Sindhuprai, President of the People Love Democracy Association of Pattaya led a group of over 300 Red Shirts to first pray and give homage to the shrine of King Taksin, behind Rungland Village, South Pattaya and secondly to assemble in front of Pattaya City Hall, before moving off on a ‘rebel rousing’ tour of the city. The ‘rebel rousing’ took the form of broadcasting stirring rhetoric from a bus with the intent of recruiting local people to join their group going to Bangkok. Their speech attacked the Prime Minister and the President of the Privy Council. Over 50 Pattaya Police and police volunteers provided security at different points in Pattaya. Mrs. Jureeporn Sindhuprai announced that, so far, between 1,000 to 1,500 local people will be going to Bangkok tomorrow. Most will be going by car and motorbike, with at least 100 of them going via the Chonburi By-pass to join the main Eastern Seaboard group on the Bangna–Trad Road. The demonstrators took 80 temporary toilets with them. ____________________ And this, from PATTAYA ONE: for photos, see: http://www.pattayaone.net/pattaya-news/15702/red-shirts-not-quite-on-the-rampage-yet/ _____ Red Shirts Not Quite on the Rampage, Yet 13th March 2010 Friday 12 March saw what many observers believe is the beginning of the end game as far as the so-called Red Shirt anti-government groups are concerned. The United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship, better known by the acronym UDD hoped to marshal up to a million demonstrators in Bangkok. At the same time, regional rallies and demonstrations were also organized. In this bulletin we concentrate on the Red Shirt activities in and around Pattaya. The day before the official rallies our journalists traveled to Soi Petragoon in North Pattaya and the headquarters of what is called the Pattaya City Democracy Protection Club. If anyone was expecting a group of people to be sitting around in easy chairs playing a few games of Scrabble and chequers you would be disappointed. The Club is just a glorified set of market stalls selling UDD t-shirts, scarves, baseball caps and other bits and pieces, including soap. On Friday morning a large group of red-shirted UDD supporters gathered in front of the King Thaksin the Great statue at the front of City Hall to pay homage, light incense sticks and pray for the overthrow of the government and good t-shirt sales. They were addressed by Khun Ronagit, one of Pattaya’s deputy mayors. There were no reports of violence from within Pattaya and the UDD supporters stated they will be assembling in Soi Petragoon on Saturday morning and taking a bus or three to the rallies in Bangkok.

You also do not practice spelling. What you do practice is crawling out from under a rock every so often to write put-down posts. It's perfectly obvious that you're hoping for responses from me to your kinds of comments. What I've written on this post is all you'll get.

It's about 1:10pm in Pattaya. A circuit around town was just about the same as yesterday. Nothing at all out of the ordinary. I would expect the most interesting observations to come from Bangkok today. If you are in Bangkok, please let us know what you see and experience.

Aside from your usual sarcasm, what point are you trying to make? Perhaps you forgot what you wrote yesterday, all about how everything is scheduled only for March 14 when it fact everything was scheduled for March 12-14. Maybe you are impressed by the goings on so far. To me it all is still not much of anything. The newspaper articles this morning back up what my thoughts were. Even the Red-Shirt leaders expressed disappointment over the numbers of participants. I don't care much whether I turn out to be right or wrong. If I'm wrong I'm sure we're all champing at the bit to see you come here to gloat. I made my prediction. Where's yours?

Pork