reader

From the BBC Richard Chamberlain, the actor best known for his role in the 1960s medical drama Dr Kildare and leading role in Shogun, has died aged 90, his publicist has confirmed to the BBC. Chamberlain earned the title "king of the mini-series" for his leading roles in Shogun and The Thorn Birds. He died late on Saturday night local time (10:15 GMT Sunday) in Waimanalo, Hawaii, after suffering complications from a stroke, his publicist Harlan Boll confirmed - just hours before he would have turned 91. Martin Rabbett, Chamberlain's longtime partner, called him an "amazing and loving soul" in a statement. https://www.gayguides.com/forum/63-theater-movies-art-and-literature/?do=add

From Pattaya News Chinese Nationals removed documents from collapse site Bangkok, March 30, 2025 – A legal officer from the Civil Affairs Division of the Chatuchak District Office has filed a formal complaint with the Bang Sue Police Station, accusing five Chinese nationals of violating an official directive. The group allegedly entered a restricted area—the site of a collapsed building under construction for the State Audit Office of Thailand—and removed critical documents, including blueprints and other paperwork, from the premises. The incident comes from the collapse of the under construction 33-story office building in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, which occurred on March 28, 2025, following a powerful earthquake originating in Myanmar. The disaster has prompted relevant authorities to declare the site a restricted disaster zone under Thailand’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act. This designation prohibits unauthorized entry, with violators facing up to three months in prison, a fine of up to 6,000 baht, or both. According to multiple Thai media reports, the five Chinese nationals entered the site without permission and were observed by witnesses transporting documents out of the construction area. The documents in question reportedly included architectural blueprints and other materials related to the building project, raising concerns about their intentions. The legal officer’s complaint, lodged on March 30, 2025, seeks to hold them accountable for breaching the emergency order issued by the Governor of Bangkok. The collapsed building, intended to serve as the new headquarters for the State Audit Office, was being constructed by a joint venture involving a Chinese company and a prominent Thai construction firm. Continues with photos https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/30/legal-action-taken-against-five-chinese-nationals-for-unauthorized-entry-into-collapsed-skyscraper-in-bangkok-to-allegedly-remove-building-documents/ ======= Concerns Raised Over Steel Quality Bangkok, March 30, 2025 – In the wake of the collapse of the under construction State Audit Office building in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, some alleged building experts have pointed to potential alleged flaws in the quality of the steel reinforcements used in its construction. However, the Thai Minister of Industry said samples were taken and needed further testing before firm conclusions could be made. Posts on social media and statements from alleged engineering professionals have highlighted a troubling hypothesis: The steel reinforcements, specifically identified as DB.32 SD.50 grade, may have been substandard. According to one expert cited in online discussions, laboratory tests on this type of steel have consistently shown a low yield strength, despite meeting minimum tensile strength requirements of over 5,000 kg/cm². Critically, the steel reportedly exhibits issues during bending tests, with tendencies to crack or split into layers, suggesting a major issue and problem for structures in seismic zones. “This type of steel has a history of problems,” noted an anonymous civil engineering veteran online . “The low yield point combined with poor bending performance makes it a risky choice for tall buildings, especially in an area that could experience seismic activity. If this was indeed used in the collapsed building, it could explain why it failed so catastrophically while others stood firm.” Continues at https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/30/experts-raise-concerns-over-steel-quality-in-collapsed-bangkok-building-following-earthquake/

From The Nation Strong 5.1 magnitude aftershock strikes Myanmar near Mandalay A strong 5.1 magnitude aftershock struck Myanmar on Sunday afternoon, according to a report by Krungthep Turakij, citing foreign media outlets. However, no damage has been reported from this aftershock. The bureau stated that as of 1 pm on Sunday, a total of 169 aftershocks had been detected, ranging from magnitudes 1 to 7. The main earthquake took place at 1.20 pm on Friday, with the epicentre located near Mandalay. the bureau, the 169 aftershocks were categorised into the following magnitude levels: 1.0–2.9: 43 aftershocks 3.0–3.9: 79 aftershocks 4.0–4.9: 40 aftershocks 5.0–5.9: 6 aftershocks 7.0 or greater: 1 aftershock https://www.nationthailand.com/news/world/40048084

+1 I don't care if they are a top or bottom, but if they can't stay hard the session is over as far I'm concerned. Doesn't happen often but when it does there's only one alternative: get dressed, deliver appropriate tip and leave.

From Pattaya News March 30, 2025 – As Thailand gears up for the highly anticipated Songkran Festival, the traditional Thai New Year celebrated with vibrant water fights and cultural festivities, authorities and local organizers have confirmed that the recent earthquake in the region will not disrupt planned activities. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed the nation earlier today, stating, “The situation in Thailand has stabilized, and we are working tirelessly to ensure safety and normalcy. Songkran is a cornerstone of our culture and economy, and we are committed to ensuring it goes ahead as a time of joy and renewal.” Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt echoed this sentiment, noting that the city’s earthquake response command center has assessed damages and found them limited to specific sites, leaving key festival areas like Silom Road and Khao San Road unscathed. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/30/thailand-assures-songkran-activities-will-proceed-unaffected-by-recent-earthquake/

Two brothers, who who started their business careers in Bangkok nearly 125 years ago, hail from Swatow, China, the hometown of many of Thailand's most successful industrialists. The influence of the Swatow region is mentioned in John Burdet's Bangkok Eight. From Wikipedia: With some 200 business subsidiaries in mainland China, CP Group is known in China as "Zhèng Dà" (正大 - "positive" or "upright"). When China opened up its economy in 1978, the CP Group was the first foreign investor in the country and became the first foreign company registered in the special economic zone of Shenzhen, Guangdong. The company is the single largest investor in mainland China today commanding over a fifth of China's entire feed meal market.[10] The corporate registration number was "0001." Through its extensive investments, CP Group has been credited with changing the country's dietary habits and leading China's green revolution.[11] Charoen Pokphand traces its beginnings back to 1921, when immigrant brothers Chia Ek Chor (謝易初) and Chia Jin Hyang (謝進賢), hailing from Swatow, China, started a seed store named Chia Tai Chung on Song Sawat Road in Bangkok's Chinatown during the reign of King Rama VI. They imported seeds and vegetables from China and exported pigs and eggs to Hong Kong, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. The two brothers, who were virtually penniless, managed to scrape together enough capital to start their tiny seed shop. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charoen_Pokphand

From Bangkok Post The board of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has approved a revised contract for the high-speed rail project linking three airports -- Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao -- which is scheduled for signing by June. This amendment marks a critical step in the long-delayed project. The final signing is expected in June, after which the SRT will issue a notice to proceed (NTP) for construction. The project is scheduled for completion within five years, with operations expected to begin by 2029. To prevent further delays, the SRT has prioritised construction at U-Tapao airport's overlapping sections with the Sino-Thai high-speed rail project. Construction was initially planned to begin in 2021. One of the key contract amendments was the change of the payment method for the public investment cost (PIC). Instead of paying the private partner 149.65 billion baht in instalments for 10 years after operations begin, the government will make progress-based payments, capped at 120 billion baht. The private partner, Asia Era One, must provide additional guarantees totalling 152.16 billion baht. In addition, the company will pay the 10.67-billion-baht investment fee for the Airport Rail Link (ARL) project in seven equal annual instalments, with the first instalment paid on the contract amendment signing date. Another amendment is the revenue sharing adjustment. If project loan interest rates decrease significantly and Asia Era One's internal rate of return exceeds 5.52%, the SRT will have the right to claim additional revenue sharing. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2990257/srt-okays-contract-change-for-airport-link-project?tbref=hp

Have you found a carrier that will get you home (US or Mexico) with emergency passport?

The Mahanakhon sways in the quake. https://www.facebook.com/reel/669362185585297

Trump has renamed Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America. Now Fox news has reverted to calling Myanmar by its old name, Burma. Massive 7.7 magnitude earthquake rocks Burma

+ 1 Readers who've been following Thai public education will not be surprised. And judging by the Myanmar guys who work Dragon and Koi, I'd put Myanmar ahead of Thailand.

From Khaosod English KOH SAMUI — A 30-year-old British man died while still wearing Muay Thai shorts on Koh Samui island in Surat Thani province. Police officers from Bo Phut Police Station investigated the incident at Thai International Hospital shortly after midnight on March 29. The deceased was identified as Mr. Joseph, according to Nantawat Chukaew, the boxing trainer who provided additional details. On March 28, around 9:30 PM, Joseph participated in his first-ever boxing match at the Inter Samui boxing stadium. During the third round, he was kicked in the right side of his rib cage, prompting the referee to stop the fight. After the match ended, the deceased walked off the ring on his own and appeared normal, even removing his gloves as usual. However, while unwrapping his hand bandages, he began experiencing muscle tension, labored breathing, and eye rolling, though without seizures. His trainer brought him to the front of the stage. At that time, Joseph was still conscious, but approximately five minutes later, he collapsed and his heart stopped beating. While waiting for the rescue foundation ambulance, the boxing trainer performed initial cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Upon arrival at Thai International Hospital, medical staff continued CPR for about an hour before the hospital doctor pronounced him dead at 11:00 PM. Doctors at Koh Samui Hospital have conducted an autopsy, while police officers will coordinate with the British Embassy to notify the deceased’s relatives. https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2025/03/29/british-man-dies-after-first-muay-thai-fight-in-koh-samui/

From The Nation While still in its developmental stages, this ambitious project already offers a captivating glimpse into the nation's rich artistic heritage, showcasing a stunning array of masterpieces that speak volumes about Lao culture, spirituality and history. Officially opened on January 5 in Nonsa-at Village, Xaythany District, the museum is a significant undertaking, spanning 80 hectares and aiming to become a major cultural landmark. The vision for this grand institution was conceived by Phisith Sayathith, who sought to create a space that blends traditional and modern artistry, inspiring unity and pride. The complex currently features several distinct zones including an arts and culture exhibition hall, an observation hall, and a multi-purpose building. Even with ongoing construction, the scale and ambition of the project are immediately apparent. But what sets this museum apart is its dedication to showcasing the depth and breadth of Lao artistry. The art of this small, landlocked nation, as explained at the museum, is deeply rooted in the country's rich cultural and spiritual traditions, offering an expressive reflection of its history, religion and environment. This project evolved from a 2018 art exhibition, gaining support from the Lao government and Vientiane Capital Administration to become the hub for cultural preservation, artistic exploration and tourism it is today. Continues with video https://www.nationthailand.com/life/travel/40048040

From The Nation 77 mild aftershocks reported Continues with interactive video presentation https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40048017

From Pattaya News Earthquake Releases Energy Equivalent to 334 Atomic Bombs, Geologist Warns of Prolonged Aftershocks A 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on Friday has unleashed energy equivalent to 334 atomic bombs, according to a prominent geologist. The quake, centered near the country’s second-largest city of Mandalay, has left a trail of destruction across Myanmar and neighboring Thailand, with experts now cautioning that aftershocks could rattle the region for another two to three months. Dr. Jess Phoenix, a geologist interviewed by international media, explained that the earthquake’s energy release was comparable to hundreds of Hiroshima-sized nuclear explosions, underscoring its catastrophic potential. “This was a massive event, driven by the ongoing collision of the Indian tectonic plate with the Eurasian plate beneath Myanmar,” Phoenix said. “The region’s tectonic activity isn’t done yet—aftershocks are likely to continue, posing ongoing risks.” The earthquake, which hit just before 1:20 p.m. local time on March 28, was followed just 12 minutes later by a significant 6.4-magnitude aftershock, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Since then, at least 14 additional aftershocks have been recorded in Myanmar, with more felt across Thailand. The USGS estimates that the initial rupture extended up to 500 kilometers along the Sagaing Fault, a major tectonic boundary running north-south through Myanmar. Mandalay and the capital, Naypyidaw, have reported widespread damage, with collapsed buildings, buckled roads, and overwhelmed hospitals. A bridge over the Irrawaddy River near Mandalay has also collapsed, complicating rescue efforts. Experts attribute the region’s vulnerability to its position along the Sagaing Fault, where the Indian Plate slides past the Burma microplate at a rate of 11 to 18 millimeters per year. “This strike-slip fault can produce earthquakes up to magnitude 8, and we’ve seen this kind of destruction before,” said Dr. Roberto Gentile, an earthquake risk expert from University College London. He noted historical precedents, such as a 7.7-magnitude quake in 1946, and warned that the current event’s shallow depth—about 10 kilometers—amplified its surface impact. The prolonged aftershock warning stems from the fault’s ongoing stress adjustments. “Aftershocks could persist for weeks or even months as the earth settles,” Gentile added. “We’ve already seen a significant one, and more are expected, which could further threaten weakened structures.” The USGS has not yet released an operational aftershock forecast for this event, but similar seismic sequences suggest a tapering series of tremors, potentially including some as strong as magnitude 6 or higher. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/29/powerful-myanmar-earthquake-releases-energy-equivalent-to-334-atomic-bombs-geologist-warns-of-prolonged-aftershocks/

From Pattaya Mail Passengers, both Thai and foreign, were still stranded at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Samut Prakan at 00:20 on March 29, following the afternoon earthquake. Long lines were seen at the taxi queue ticketing area, as there were not enough taxis available to accommodate the large number of travelers. Airport officials provided bottled water to passengers waiting for extended periods. Additionally, the Grab ride-hailing area was also overcrowded, with many passengers opting to find nearby accommodations due to the lack of transportation options. The earthquake had caused significant disruptions to transportation in Bangkok, with BTS and MRT services temporarily halted, and heavy traffic congestion in several areas, leaving many unable to return to their accommodations. https://www.pattayamail.com/news/suvarnabhumi-airport-overcrowded-as-tourists-stranded-due-to-taxi-shortage-after-earthquake-495776

I'd never say never, but it would be counter productive to book a top if you want oral. There's only one shop that I'm aware of where the masseurs are flexible in that regard: Phoenix in Saphan Kwai. There well may be other shops I'm not familiar with. Perhaps other nembers will join the conversation..

How many can say that we have a line waiting on us.🙂

Many of the building construction jobs.in Bangkok are held by migrant workers from Myanmar.

From Pattaya News Rescue Operations Intensify at Collapsed Bangkok Skyscraper Rescue operations are underway with urgency at the site of a collapsed 30-storey skyscraper in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, following a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar earlier today. The tremor, centered near Mandalay, reverberated across Southeast Asia, causing widespread panic and structural damage in the Thai capital, which has been declared a disaster area. The under-construction building, intended to house the Office of the Auditor General, crumbled into a massive pile of rubble and twisted metal at approximately 1:20 PM local time, trapping dozens of construction workers. As of the latest reports, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has confirmed that three (some other reports have said four) workers have been killed, with estimates of 81 to 90 individuals still missing beneath the debris. Rescue teams have so far pulled multiple survivors from the wreckage, offering a glimmer of hope amid the chaos. “The situation is unprecedented in Bangkok’s history,” Wechayachai stated during a press briefing at the site earlier this evening. “We are mobilizing all available resources—military personnel, emergency responders, and heavy equipment—to search for survivors. Time is critical.” The Thai military, under orders from Army Commander-in-Chief General Pana Claewplodtook, has deployed drones to assess the damage and assist in locating trapped individuals. However, unstable rubble and downed power lines are hampering efforts, with rescuers proceeding cautiously to avoid further collapses. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt reported that the quake caused damage to multiple high-rise buildings across the city, with inspections ongoing to assess structural integrity. “This is a disaster unlike anything we’ve seen in the past century,” Sittipunt said, noting that the city’s soft, muddy terrain may have amplified the quake’s impact. The Stock Exchange of Thailand suspended trading, and the city’s elevated transit and subway systems remain shut down as authorities brace for potential aftershocks. Many businesses across the city shut as well for the evening and traffic was in chaos as we reported here. Eyewitness accounts paint a harrowing picture of the collapse. Video footage circulating online shows the skyscraper, topped with a crane, toppling into a cloud of dust as onlookers screamed and fled. “It happened so fast,” said a nearby vendor at Chatuchak Market. “One moment it was standing, the next it was gone, and the air was thick with dust.” Workers at the site were seen scrambling to escape as the structure gave way, with an estimated 100 people present at the time of the incident. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/28/rescue-operations-intensify-at-collapsed-bangkok-skyscraper-amid-myanmar-earthquake-aftermath/

As others have said, what's needed is more information on what's happening. I heartened to know that you and others in Bangkok were not injured.

It obviously gives you much pleasure to point out what you believe what others could have done better (aka, nitpicking). I'm sure you're perfect in all your posts. Have a wonderful day, Peter!

I have a first-hand report that Freshboy is open tonight. Goodboy, Hotmale and Atlas I'm told also appear to be open for business. Foodland is closed at this point. 764858238.389830.mp4

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon Myanmar young men, deported from Thailand, will likely be conscripted into the junta’s army. The arrest in Pattaya earlier this week of 52 Myanmar nationals without work authorization papers highlights yet again the acute labor crunch. Pattaya employers cannot fill all the jobs with Thais alone and need many tens of thousands of guest workers from neighboring countries and Myanmar in particular. The main gaps currently are in the hotel and food industries as Pattaya prepares for a record-breaking Songkran, but the Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry also points of shortages in the construction sector as the building boom continues. According to the real estate research center AREA, the Chonburi housing market is worth more than any other province in Thailand. But Myanmar nationals have their stern critics in Pattaya and elsewhere. Khaosod reports that xenophobia and anti-Burmese sentiment is spreading in Thailand through social media. On Facebook, Paiboon Arunthanawanich claims that the medical budget has to be shared with aliens and that Myanmars are taking away Thai jobs. Other Facebook critics complain that Thai budgets should be spent only on Thai citizens and write enthusiastically about president Trump’s immigration policies in USA. But, as Khaosod stresses, these sentiments have lost sight of the fact that low-paying manual jobs are no longer attractive to Thais whose actual unemployment rate is under one percent, mostly graduates looking for their first job. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattayas-love-hate-relationship-with-illegal-myanmar-workers-495479

The moderator, in the past, advised members not to worry about where they post. You placed your post in an entirely proper place as I did mine. There are no hard rules that I'm aware of except when it comes to photos. This forum wouldn't exist if not for posters like yourself. Keep posting and don't worry. That's what's important.