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I’m shocked…..shocked! From Pattaya Mail The Election Commission (EC) has yet to finalize the results of the June 26 Senate elections, citing unresolved issues that must be addressed. EC Chairman Ittiporn Boonpracong has assured that the delay is due to procedural necessities and not intentional stalling. He also noted that his upcoming leave might further delay the announcement. The delay has sparked reactions from various stakeholders. The election winners are pressing the EC for a swift certification to facilitate the transition from the current Senate. Meanwhile, some candidates have voiced concerns about electoral irregularities, with threats of legal action if the EC rushes to announce results without adequately addressing these issues.

From Bangkok Post State-run bus operator Transport Co will launch bus services to three major airports run by Airports of Thailand (AoT) to allow easier travel to destinations in other provinces. Transport Co said the company has a plan to operate interprovincial buses services from Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and Phuket airports, and set up ticketing offices at the airports. The services are expected to start towards the end of the year. The buses will serve mainly principal cities, tourism hotspots, and some secondary provinces, including Pattaya, Chanthaburi, Trat, Nakhon Ratchasima and Hua Hin district. According to the company, the services will boost tourist arrivals, which in turn will increase economic activities in the provinces, which is in line with the government's goal to revitalise local economies. The AoT suggested that Transport Co start with a bus service from Phuket airport to Khao Lak, a popular seaside area in neighbouring Phangnga.

From Pattaya News The Pattaya Tourist Police Volunteers are recruiting Thai and foreign volunteers! We are often asked about this….here you go! The Pattaya Tourist Police Station is now recruiting volunteers with the following details: 1. **Application Period:** July 5-15, 2024, ending at 6:00 PM. 2. **Interviews:** July 18-19, 2024, from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the meeting room of Tourist Police Station 4, Sub-Division 2, Division 1. 3. **Interview Results Announcement:** July 25, 2024 4. **Volunteer Training :** August, 2024 (to be confirmed) 5. **Probation Period:** August 26, 2024, to November 26, 2024 6. **New Volunteer Announcement:** First week of December 2024

From The Thaiger Krungthai Bank’s warning comes as scams involving malicious links become more sophisticated. Scammers often trick victims into clicking on these links, which then prompt the installation of applications designed to siphon off funds. The bank’s message included the hashtag #ทันมุกทุกมิจ, translating to aware of every scam. “Scammers often deceive users into clicking links to install money-stealing applications.” The post continued iPhone users can increase their security from dangerous links by activating Lockdown Mode. The steps to enable Lockdown Mode are straightforward. Users should navigate to settings, update iOS to the latest version, select Privacy & Security, and then enable lockdown mode. However, the bank cautioned that enabling this mode may affect the performance of some apps. For instance, preview images from various links may not appear, and individuals who have never contacted the user before will not be able to reach them via FaceTime. The post explained, that when activated, lockdown mode may impact the usage of some apps, such as not displaying link previews and blocking FaceTime calls from unknown contacts. Krungthai Bank also reassured its customers that assistance is available around the clock. Customers can report incidents or seek help by calling 02-111-1111 or pressing 108, for 24-hour support. The advisory from Krungthai Bank underscores the growing need for heightened cybersecurity measures. With the increasing prevalence of online scams, users must stay vigilant and take proactive steps to safeguard their devices and personal information. By following the bank’s advice and enabling Lockdown Mode, iPhone users can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to these scams. The emphasis on security is well-timed, given the rising frequency of cyberattacks targeting both individuals and institutions. As technology evolves, so do the tactics employed by cybercriminals. Staying informed and adopting recommended security practices is essential in this digital age. Krungthai Bank’s reminder serves as a timely alert for all iPhone users to remain cautious and take necessary precautions. The bank’s call to action aims to protect customers from potential financial losses and ensure a safer online experience. Customers can inquire or report incidents by calling 02-111-1111, or press 108, 24 hours a day as the advisory concluded. ======== Final deadline for Thai mobile users to verify SIM cards The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC)announced that today is the final deadline for mobile phone users with six or more SIM cards to verify their identity to retain their service. Failure to comply will result in the suspension of services such as making calls, sending SMS, and using the Internet. Trirat Viriyasirikul, acting Secretary-General of the NBTC, stated that the deadline for identity verification for users with six to 100 SIM cards is today. This measure aims to prevent the misuse of mobile services for illegal activities or support of such actions. The NBTC requests that all users who have registered between six and 100 SIM cards verify their identity through the channels provided by their respective mobile service providers. If users miss this deadline, their SIM cards will be deactivated, rendering them unable to make calls, send SMS, or access the Internet. As of June 30, 1,635,407 users have successfully verified their identities out of the 3,981,251 SIM cards that require verification.

Have been told that by others. But I’m shy.😉

I suspect word of mouth. They likely find more opportunities and network of friends.

From Washington Post Boeing agreed on Sunday to plead guilty to conspiring to defraud the government in a case linked to crashes of its 737 Max jets in Indonesia and Ethiopia that killed 346 people — a stunning turn for the aerospace giant after the Justice Department determined that Boeing failed to live up to terms of a 2021 deal to avoid prosecution. Prosecutors alleged that two Boeing pilots concealed key information from the Federal Aviation Administration about a new automated control system on the Max. The system was implicated in both crashes, causing uncontrollable dives. By agreeing to plead guilty to the single felony count just before a midnight deadline Sunday, the company will avoid going to trial in the high-profile case. The Justice Department filed documents related to the deal in federal court in Texas late Sunday night, setting up a planned hearing where family members — who have criticized the pending agreement — will be permitted to speak out. The court subsequently must decide whether to accept the plea agreement. Boeing had already agreed to $2.5 billion in penalties and payouts in 2021. As part of the new deal, the company will pay an additional $487.2 million in penalties, agree to oversight by an independent monitor, spend at least $455 million to strengthen compliance and safety programs and be placed on supervised probation for roughly three years, according to a Justice Department official.

If it does it will be close. Although all structural work appears comple, fitting out interior should be a challenge. They may be able to do soft open with some rooms and facilities yet to be finished.

Ho ho. I don’t even attempt four hands. 🙂

Photo taken today of view of new Dusit Thani taken from perspective of elevated walkway above Silom MRT station entrance. I believe much of space on ground level will be landscaped and terraced.

I was in need of some printed docs today but proprietor of above shop had problem with printer and directed me diagonally across Soi Saladeang to another print shop staffed by three young men who were able to quickly accommodate me.

No, our contribution is increasing employment opportunities.

From The Nation Bangkok-Vientiane train service will start on July 19 The inaugural train service between Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Station (Bang Sue) in Bangkok and Vientiane (Khamsavath) will start on July 19, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) said on Sunday. The first train to the Lao capital will depart Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Station at 8.30pm on July 19, with Deputy Minister of Transport Surapong Piyachote presiding over the launch and joining the journey. Train No. 133 will cover the distance in around 11 hours. The journey will include customs clearance at Nong Khai Station and the destination. The service route for the Bangkok–Vientiane train will utilise the Northeastern Railway line, branching off from the Northern Railway line at Ban Phachi Junction Station. The train will pass through Saraburi province, Chira Road Junction Station in Nakhon Ratchasima province, Khon Kaen province, Udon Thani province, and Nong Khai province before crossing the First Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge to Thanalaeng Station and terminating at Vientiane Station, the SRT said.

I’ve posted several articles about the declining birth rate and its implications on the country. You’ll find another published today in The Thaiger below. How it exactly plays out is uncertain but one thing is becoming abundantly clear: citizens from the neighboring ASEAN countries will be called on to supply even greater labor going forward. ========== Thailand’s population crisis, described as an “invisible time bomb,” requires urgent government intervention, according to Varawut Silpa-archa, the Minister of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS). Varawut stated the following during a forum on national strategies hosted by the National Press Council of Thailand on Thursday, July 4. “Environmental issues are visible, but this [population crisis] is an invisible time bomb. If it is not addressed, it will certainly cause problems within the next 10 years.” Continues at https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thailand-faces-invisible-time-bomb-population-crisis

They all have LINE and wouldn’t expect any problem finding those willing to travel.

How to disable predictive texts on iPhone, IPad Open the Settings app. Tap General > Keyboard. Toggle Predictive off. Turn off predictive text in Android 1. Open the Settings menu on your phone or tablet and select Languages & Input. 2. Tap Virtual keyboard under Keyboard and input methods. 3. Select Android Keyboard.

That’s the best news I’ve had all week! lol

The bars and massage shops have been quiet in Silom for past week or so but anyplace with big screen TV’s we’re doing huge business with football fans. Big winner was Shenanigans on Surawong with every seat taken and spectators gathered on the periphery. And first time I’ve seen all the seats taken at Pink Panther outside bar that has giant screen. Only place still not doing much of anything is new music bar opposite Foodland.

Nothing at all to do with racism. Biden would trump you in a debate, hands down. 😄

Olddaddy is practicing for next debate. 🙂

From Thai PBS World Two teenaged students were killed and another seriously injured in a brawl between two rival groups in front of a housing estate in Bangkok’s Bang Na district Saturday night. Seven teenagers, including the injured, are being questioned by police. The two deceased, identified as “Kittisak”, 16 and “Noppanai”, 15, were students at Rung Rueang Uppatham School. Kittisak died after being struck on the head with a 3kg rock, while Noppanai was stabbed to death. The rock and a knife, with a six-inch blade, were found at the scene. A third student, 16-year-old “Phayu”, was also stabbed and was rushed to Bang Phil Hospital for emergency treatment. His condition is described as stable. Prior to the fight, Bang Na police said that Kittisak was riding a motorbike, with his girlfriend and Noppanai as pillion passengers, when they came across seven rival students, one identified as “Panupong”, 14. The two groups allegedly traded verbal abuse before the fatal physical altercation began. Bang Na police say all those taken in for questioning have been charged with assault resulting to the deaths of two people. Police were told that, before the fatal brawl last night, Kittisak and Noppanai damaged a motorcycle belonging to one of their rivals, for which their parents have agreed a compensation payment of 2,000 baht for the damage.

What’s connection, in your mind, between visa and racism?

The cliche “you can take the boy out of Thailand (fee free to substitute any country) but you can’t take Thailand out of the boy” seems to apply here. Observe Thai—or ASEAN generally—boys gather to eat, drink or just hang out. They are very affectionate with one another and enjoy themselves immensely. Some may succeed in emigrating to another county by various means but they will forever be drawn emotionally to their homeland. As we follow this thread from the beginning, I’m again reminded of something I believe Floridarob mentioned in a post a while back about the difference between love and sex, and the importance of not equating the two. in my 22 years of visiting Thailand, I’ve come to know quite a few guys outside the bars and massage shops. I truly enjoy their friendship and envy their relationships with their peers. That has granted me insight into the boundaries of these associations as they pertain to me. I know I can’t take Thailand home with me but I also know that I’ll be returning as long as I’m able.

From AP Thai fire fighters attempt to control fire at Chinatown in Bangkok late Saturday. The nighttime blaze began in a row of shophouses behind a hotel, but was difficult to put out because they were accessible only by a narrow alley. No deaths were reported. Sakchai Lalit - staff, ASSOCIATED PRESS The Bangkok Post is reporting that the blaze was in the Yaowarat Rd. Area. Elderly residents were rescued by aerial devices. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2824573/big-fire-gutted-chinatown

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon Media rumors that the pound would suffer a setback following the UK poll proved to be unfounded. In the past, Labour victories have been accompanied by a fall in the value of the British currency on fears that the party could not be trusted with the nation’s coffers. However, the July 4 election produced such a huge win for the Labour opposition, amid a collapse without precedent of the Conservative vote, that currency dealers and commentators have taken the view that firm government with a huge majority will benefit the country. The pound is holding steady at around 46.68 to the Thai baht. The other British expat preoccupation, the frozen state pension, is also a no-change scenario. At any rate for now. No major political party committed itself to reform in its manifesto. Although research from pension pressure groups suggests that Labour MPs are more inclined to favor reform than their Conservative peers, nothing is known of the views of huge swathes of Labour members of parliament in the new intake. Along with Brits resident in many countries, those in Thailand do not receive the annual rise in state pensions operating for those resident in the UK, the EU and some other states. The unjustness has been frequently debated and referred to the European human rights court. However, a change to benefit 500,000 British pensioners living in affected countries abroad would require Parliamentary assent for a change in the law. Given the state of British finances and urgent domestic matters, such as the crisis in the health service, pensioners abroad are not likely to be a priority.