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The Department of National Parks (DNP) in Chiang Mai is seeking public feedback on a proposed plan to build the Mae Hod Reservoir in certain parts of Ob Luang National Park. The proposal aims to increase water sources for local farmers and reduce the risk of drought. Ob Luang National Park located in Chiang Mai, has opened discussions to stakeholders and locals. This is about the proposal to use some parts of the park for the construction of the Mae Hod Reservoir. Approved by royal decree, this project is meant to boost water supply for farming. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment emphasizes the importance of community feedback during the decision-making process. This feedback will play a role in forming the royal decree that would permit the use of parts of Ob Luang National Park. This is in line with Section 8, Paragraph 3 of the National Park Act of 2019. The Mae Hod Reservoir project is a royal endeavour to tackle the ongoing problem of water shortage for local farmers. The reservoir would store water to sustain farming activities, particularly during drought, ensuring a steady water supply. It is not only seen as a booster for farming output but also a means to better the living standards and quality of life for the local residents in and near the project area. One representative from the DNP stressed the importance of the Mae Hod Reservoir project as a key solution to solidifying a constant water resource for farming and household use. He stated, “This project will bring great benefit to the local farmers who have faced water shortages for a long time." The initiative is part of a wider plan to combat issues arising from water shortage, especially during dry spells. The Mae Hod Reservoir will help provide a regular water source, which would thereby enhance farming productivity and improve the economic conditions of the locals. An official from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment emphasized the value of the community's feedback. He said, “It’s important that this project is in line with what the community, who will be directly affected, needs and wants." File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Experience the Thrill of the Durian Festival in Nakhon Ratchasima File photo for reference only The city of Nakhon Ratchasima has officially launched its durian festival, showcasing 38 different types of Wang Nam Khiao durians. Dessert shops are set to open to visitors starting tomorrow, with the main event commencing on July 5. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329511-experience-the-thrill-of-the-durian-festival-in-nakhon-ratchasima/

The city of Nakhon Ratchasima has officially launched its durian festival, showcasing 38 different types of Wang Nam Khiao durians. Dessert shops are set to open to visitors starting tomorrow, with the main event commencing on July 5. Located in Ban Khlong Sai, the Ploenchit Durian Orchard is home to more than 40 various kinds of durians. The owner, Satit Tritarak, states that the orchard, spanning 12 rai and containing 360 trees, produces popular durian varieties such as Monthong, Chanee, Puangmanee, Musang King, and Kob Suwan. The spot also cultivates rare breeds like Thong Tam Tua, Nuan Thong Chan, and Sai Nam Phueng. Apart from these, the Ploenchit Durian Orchard also boasts a range of durian families, like the long-stemmed varieties of Kan Yao Si Nak and Kob Mae Thao from the Kob family. The health of these durians is maintained by following soil enrichment techniques from YouTube experts. A mix of fermented animal manure and gypsum is used to nourish the soil, and additional nutrients are given twice a year. This year's yield is predicted to start in late June and conclude in late August. The orchard is dedicated to harvesting only mature durians, guaranteeing no issues with unripe fruit for the consumers. The main focus this year will be selling durians on the spot during the durian festival instead of online. Ploenchit Durian Orchard has recently opened a new shop selling durians and sweets. Here, visitors can taste different durian strains and enjoy carefully prepared desserts made from the finest ingredients. The dessert shops are set to have a soft launch tomorrow while the grand opening is scheduled for July 5. Durian lovers, sweet-toothed individuals, and tourists visiting the local Khao Phang Ma wildlife observation spot are all encouraged to stop by the orchard. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former Principal Accused by Buriram Villagers of Land Seizure File photo for reference only Inhabitants of Nong Mai Ngam, a village in the Lahan Sai District of Buriram Province, have accused a former school principal of seizing their agricultural property over unpaid loans. These villagers lodged their complaint, accompanied with evidence, with the Buriram Provincial Land Reform Office. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329510-former-principal-accused-by-buriram-villagers-of-land-seizure/

Inhabitants of Nong Mai Ngam, a village in the Lahan Sai District of Buriram Province, have accused a former school principal of seizing their agricultural property over unpaid loans. These villagers lodged their complaint, accompanied with evidence, with the Buriram Provincial Land Reform Office. These individuals had borrowed money from the ex-principal, offering their Sor Por Kor land as collateral, but were unable to return the loans on time. As a result, land from 3 to 60 rai per person was seized by the principal. Even after attempts to repay the loans with interest, the principal demanded high sums in excess of the initial loans. For example, a villager who had borrowed 45,000 baht was asked for 400,000 baht for the return of the land, leaving him financially incapable of following through. Affected by the loss of their land, some villagers have fallen sick and, scared of the implications, have sought help from the Land Reform Office. One villager, Chalerm, a 67 year old resident of Ban Sai Tree 16 was also impacted. Chalerm borrowed a total of 45,000 baht from the principal from 2006 onwards, putting his 3 rai land as a guarantee. He tried to return 150,000 baht including interest but was asked for 400,000 baht instead. Unable to comply, he turned to the Land Reform Office for help. Meanwhile, the ex-principal has started pressurizing the affected villagers to sign lease agreements, using relatives to intimidate them when they refused, creating a fearful atmosphere in the village. Prasert Kanchanakiatkul, the Buriram Provincial Land Reform Officer, announced that the Land Reform Office will have its lawyers look into these allegations. If they are found to be true, legal action will be carried out against the ex-principal. He pledged to thoroughly study the matter and make sure justice is served in accordance with the law. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Kidnapping plot worth 1 million baht halted by Police in Nakhon Ratchasima File photo for reference only Highway police in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, have arrested three individuals connected with the kidnapping of a young man from Surin. The alleged kidnappers supposedly intended to extort 1 million baht. The suspects posed as politicians and threatened the victim’s girlfriend to pressure her into transferring the money. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329509-kidnapping-plot-worth-1-million-baht-halted-by-police-in-nakhon-ratchasima/

Highway police in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, have arrested three individuals connected with the kidnapping of a young man from Surin. The alleged kidnappers supposedly intended to extort 1 million baht. The suspects posed as investigator and threatened the victim’s girlfriend to pressure her into transferring the money. The police received a tip-off that three men, pretending to be investigative officers, had abducted a person named Trakarn. The criminals then forced Trakarn into a black pickup truck and drove towards Nakhon Ratchasima. Police leadership instructed their teams to follow the getaway vehicle. When the truck arrived at Mittraphap Road, Highway 2, heading towards Bangkok, the police noticed the black Isuzu D-Max pickup truck. Even though the police tried to stop the truck to interrogate the driver, he sped off, leading to a chase. After a while, the police were successful in halting the truck. They discovered Trakarn Phonsalee, aged 23, who had been kidnapped from Surin. The suspects consisted of 26-year-old Bannasit, claiming to be a commissioner investigating illicit activities; 26-year-old Kritchai, the driver; and a 16-year-old boy. Trakarn reported that just after 11PM, three men approached him. They claimed to be politicians investigating powerful persons in Surin. They accused Trakarn of selling kratom leaves and demanded 1 million baht to avoid legal action. Trakarn informed them he only had 500,000 baht and suggested they retrieve the cash from his girlfriend. The kidnappers dismissed this and forcefully dragged him into their truck, planning to take him to Bangkok. The abductors used Trakarn’s cell phone to send intimidating messages to his girlfriend. They warned that Trakarn would be harmed if she didn't transfer the money. She was also given a bank account number for the transaction. After receiving the warnings, she quickly informed authorities, and the highway police swiftly intervened. The alleged kidnappers are now in custody and are undergoing further investigation. Initial findings indicate that this group may have executed similar incidents against others. The authorities plan to expand their investigation to uncover more information. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former bank loan officer nabbed for fraud and forgery File photo for reference only The Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) have arrested a former senior bank loan officer. He was detained on charges of document falsification and misappropriation of funds that caused a loss of over one million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329506-former-bank-loan-officer-nabbed-for-fraud-and-forgery/

The Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) have arrested a former senior bank loan officer. He was detained on charges of document falsification and misappropriation of funds that caused a loss of over one million baht. Police Major General Prasong Chelimphanth, the head of the PACC, and Suphap Siri, NACC Region 6 Director, led the operation to arrest 43-year-old Theepat. The authorities acted based on an arrest warrant issued by the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases. The man was detained at a convenience store's parking lot on Liap Maenaretsuan Road, situated in Tha Pho Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phitsanulok Province. Theepat, who held a senior leasing officer position at a prominent bank once, allegedly collaborated with a used car dealership owner. They are believed to have forged documents and altered contracts to misdirect funds and commissions for their gain. The illicit activities started in 2013 when Theepat oversaw used car market leasings. It was here that he admitted to staging several instances of document forgery leading to loss exceeding one million baht. As investigations continued, it was discovered that Theepat had been a loan officer at a private bank for over a decade. This experience provided him with significant knowledge in finance and marketing. He leveraged this knowledge to identify loopholes which he then exploited. Due to personal gambling debts and family-related financial pressures, he later joined a state-owned bank. After his illicit activities were unearthed, Theepat lost his job. He changed his identity in an attempt to avoid the law, however, he was handed a three-year jail term for exceeding a friend's credit card limit and failing to repay it. Theepat confessed that he engaged in document forgery, misappropriation of funds, and receiving commissions among other financial benefits. The proceeds from these illegal activities were used to settle his debts. His fraudulent act continued until his arrest. He has now been presented before the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases for legal proceedings. The authorities have pledged to maintain their investigation to uncover more potential fraudulent activities and ensure that everyone involved is prosecuted according to the law. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Work to Recover Cars Underwater Initiated Following Riverbank Collapse File photo for reference only A riverbank gave way in Chai Nat yesterday, dragging vehicles into the Chao Phraya River. Four motorbikes have been retrieved but submerged trees are blocking recovery of cars. Authorities are waiting on heavy machinery to clear the obstructing trees. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329505-work-to-recover-cars-underwater-initiated-following-riverbank-collapse/

A riverbank gave way in Chai Nat yesterday, dragging vehicles into the Chao Phraya River. Four motorbikes have been retrieved but submerged trees are blocking recovery of cars. Authorities are waiting on heavy machinery to clear the obstructing trees. Security cameras at Wat Thammamool Worawihan temple in Mueang Chai Nat District recorded the moment the riverbank and an accompanying parking area collapsed. The sound of a large crack was first heard followed by the collapse, which also caused disruption at a closeby school. Barely a minute later, a subsequent collapse pulled trees, a school parking structure, and numerous vehicles into the river. The vehicles, three cars and eleven motorcycles, belonged to teachers, students, janitors, and cooks. A thorough check found that the collapsed area extended 60 meters along the riverbank and went as far as 30 meters inland. In addition to the vehicles, a monk's living quarters from the temple, a school parking structure, and three floating docks were destroyed. The Ruamkatanyu Foundation's rescue teams have been searching the 8-meter-deep water since the incident occurred. While they have successfully pulled out four motorbikes, the recovery of the cars has been hindered by the underwater trees. Buoys have been set up to mark the locations of the vehicles until a Marine Department vessel and a crane from the Irrigation Department can remove the trees. Despite the road close to the collapse being intact and currently open, as it is 4-5 meters away from the edge of the collapse, authorities urge the public to use alternate routes for now. The road section will be temporarily closed during car recovery for safety. People living in the area and daily commuters are advised to follow updates and heed directions from officials for their own safety and to maintain the efficiency of recovery operations. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Prime Minister Announces Introduction of Three-Digit Lottery Tickets File photo for reference only The Cabinet has given the green light for a new three-digit lottery ticket, per an announcement from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. This set off a wave of excitement among lottery fans nationwide. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329504-prime-minister-announces-introduction-of-three-digit-lottery-tickets/

The Cabinet has given the green light for a new three-digit lottery ticket, per an announcement from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. This set off a wave of excitement among lottery fans nationwide. Known as N3, the new lottery offers an unprecedented gaming experience. With one single ticket, players can join in four different games: an exact three-digit match, an exact two-digit match, a rearranged three-digit match, and a unique special prize. In a social media post, the Prime Minister further explained how the special prize works. If there are no winners in a specific draw, the cash prize piles up and rolls over to the next game, but only once. If the following game doesn't produce a winner either, the unclaimed cash prize will then go into the state's revenues. The Government Lottery Office will roll out more information about the N3 lottery soon, such as how much the tickets will cost and how to buy them. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cabinet Approves Fare Increase for MRT Blue Line File photo for reference only The Thai government has approved a proposal by the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) for a new ticket pricing system for the Blue Line MRT. This new pricing structure will start on the 3rd of July, 2024. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329502-cabinet-approves-fare-increase-for-mrt-blue-line/

The Thai government has approved a proposal by the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) for a new ticket pricing system for the Blue Line MRT. This new pricing structure will start on the 3rd of July, 2024. The updated ticket prices will range from 17 to 45 baht per ride. This change is in line with the biannual adjustment for inflation that is written in their contract. Deputy Government Spokesperson, Ms. Kenikar Unjit, explained that the current ticket prices run from 16 to 43 baht. The new ticket pricing will keep the lowest price at 17 baht and raise the maximum price to 45 baht. These changes are based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) information supplied by the Office of Policy and Strategy for Trade, which is a part of the Ministry of Commerce. Under the new pricing system, journeys of up to 9 stations on the Blue Line MRT will cost 17 baht. For journeys of 12 stations or more, the fare will be 45 baht. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cabinet Lowers Meth Possession Limit to a Single Pill File photo for reference only The Prime Minister of Thailand, Srettha Thavisin, has announced that the Cabinet has agreed to change the Ministry of Public Health's laws to lower the legal limit of methamphetamine in anyone's possession to a single pill. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329501-cabinet-lowers-meth-possession-limit-to-a-single-pill/

The Prime Minister of Thailand, Srettha Thavisin, has announced that the Cabinet has agreed to change the Ministry of Public Health's laws to lower the legal limit of methamphetamine in anyone's possession to a single pill. In a Cabinet meeting, the Prime Minister explained that the Ministry of Public Health had proposed new draft regulations which had been approved by the Cabinet. The primary change is that they are modifying the allowed quantity of narcotics and controlled psychotropic drugs that are assumed to be for personal use. The possession limit of methamphetamine has been changed from five pills down to just one. Other types of methamphetamine, such as powder or crystal, have also seen a reduction in the allowed amount, with the limit now being a single unit for usage or a net weight of 100 milligrams. This new limit also applies to the drug known as crystal meth or ice - now only one dose can be legally held. The Council of State's office has taken on the task of checking this new draft regulation's precision. This change, which limits pill or unit usage to a single one, is understood to be a method to reduce the number of smaller drug dealers. This could potentially break the cycle of drug distribution and also cut down the number of drugs held for illegal selling. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Public Health Department Calls for Public Opinion on Reclassifying Cannabis Amid Protests File photo for reference only On June 11th, 2024, Thailand's Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsuthin, proposed a change to the country's laws on narcotics possession. The proposed amendment suggests lowering the number of methamphetamine pills from five to one that an individual can carry legally. If a person is found with more than one pill, they may be considered a drug dealer unless they prove otherwise. Instead of jailing, addicts would get assistance through rehabilitation programs. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329499-public-health-department-calls-for-public-opinion-on-reclassifying-cannabis-amid-protests/

On June 11th, 2024, Thailand's Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsuthin, proposed a change to the country's laws on narcotics possession. The proposed amendment suggests lowering the number of methamphetamine pills from five to one that an individual can carry legally. If a person is found with more than one pill, they may be considered a drug dealer unless they prove otherwise. Instead of jailing, addicts would get assistance through rehabilitation programs. In addition to the amendments, sources of illegal drugs will be thoroughly investigated. This proposal is set to be discussed by the Thai government cabinet, reviewed by the Council of State, and revisited by the cabinet once more. The entire decision-making process is expected to conclude this month and results will be publicly shared afterwards. Furthermore, Somsak Thepsuthin responded to questions about the ongoing pro-cannabis protests happening at the Government House. The protesters demand that future cannabis regulations be based on scientific evidence and it should not be regarded as an illegal drug. Public opinion about cannabis will also be considered for this amendment. The Minister has requested feedback from the public on the government website over a 15-day period. Here, both supporters and opponents of cannabis reclassification can express their views. The decision on cannabis regulation will be officially announced by the Thai Ministry of Public Health, once approved by the Narcotics Prevention and Suppression Commission (NACC). This decision does not require additional cabinet or parliament discussions. Those protesting pro-cannabis demand a more democratic judgement method like a larger vote or parliamentary debate. They insist on cannabis regulation instead of making it illegal. They are staging a non-stop protest in Bangkok, vowing not to leave until the government works out a middle ground, deciding to govern cannabis use instead of outlawing it again. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Crew from Thailand rescued from a sinking cargo ship in Cambodia's waters File photo for reference only On Sunday, ten Thai crew members were saved from a sinking cargo ship off Cambodia's coast. The rescue took place on June 8 between Vang and Manas islands located in the Koh Ko Cang province. The Thai cargo ship, which was headed towards Cambodia, unexpectedly sank. Initial reports suggest the sinking may have been caused by water entering the ship from the front side. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329495-crew-from-thailand-rescued-from-a-sinking-cargo-ship-in-cambodias-waters/

On Sunday, ten Thai crew members were saved from a sinking cargo ship off Cambodia's coast. The rescue took place on June 8 between Vang and Manas islands located in the Koh Ko Cang province. The Thai cargo ship, which was headed towards Cambodia, unexpectedly sank. Initial reports suggest the sinking may have been caused by water entering the ship from the front side. Local authorities and a volunteer rescue team from Sihanoukville performed a daring rescue operation, saving all the crew members. They were then quickly transported by speedboat to Sihanoukville. They are currently recuperating in a hotel located near the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, according to a local official in Preah Sihanouk. The official stated that the Thai Embassy in Cambodia would be informed to submit necessary immigration documents since the crew members' paperwork was lost in the sinking. The ages of the saved crew members, identified as Sopon Wantong, Sorasak Sasrimuang, Santina Nagara, Preecha Panchoo, Prakob Vechkit, Adisak Boonkun, Daurang Palnak, Santi Boonya, Arichai Jairak, and Worrathun Chimsawat, range between 30 and 70. Though the sea conditions were calm at the time, the ship sank due to sudden flooding, as reported by Thai PBS World. "Experts are still investigating to ascertain the exact cause of the incident", stated the report. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

High-profile drug dealer and firefighter arrested in Bangkok police raid File photo for reference only Following a tip-off, police officers carried out a late-night raid at a well-known hotel in Bangkok on June 10 in which they arrested Naraset Thaiset and his accomplices. The arrest came after the police found six bags of crystal methamphetamine and a gun in their hotel room located in the Huai Khwang District's Bang Kapi. Naraset Thaiset is related to Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaiset - his father is Chada's uncle. With him, individuals known only as Kitcha, Walis, and Anchaliporn were also arrested. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329494-high-profile-drug-dealer-and-firefighter-arrested-in-bangkok-police-raid/

Following a tip-off, police officers carried out a late-night raid at a well-known hotel in Bangkok on June 10 in which they arrested Naraset Thaiset and his accomplices. The arrest came after the police found six bags of crystal methamphetamine and a gun in their hotel room located in the Huai Khwang District's Bang Kapi. Naraset Thaiset is related to Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaiset - his father is Chada's uncle. With him, individuals known only as Kitcha, Walis, and Anchaliporn were also arrested. The group is now facing charges for possessing and using the illegal drug methamphetamine. In addition, Thaiset has been charged with illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition as well as carrying it in public without a valid reason, said a spokesperson from the police. "The suspects had drugs and a gun on them, which resulted in their immediate arrest and the charges against them," the spokesperson added. The police have taken all suspects into custody, and they are currently waiting to face further legal action. This incident is a reminder of the ongoing problem of drug use and illegal firearms in Thailand that necessitates constant vigilance from law enforcement agencies. This raid on the hotel was part of larger efforts to tackle drug-related crimes in the city. Arresting Thaiset is significant not only because of his relation to a senior government official but also due to growing speculations about drug networks' influence and reach in the society. The police spokesperson emphasized that everyone is subject to the law - connections or status do not provide protection or immunity. "We are dedicated to addressing drug and firearm crimes with no exceptions," the police said. The police are now looking to take down the wider network associated with this incident and are asking the public for any information that could help keep the community safe and controlled. Additional arrests show Thai police's commitment to fight against illegal activities and ensure everyone gets justice, regardless of social or familial standing. The final outcomes for Thaiset and his partners will reflect the seriousness of their charges following the legal proceedings. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Posing as Police Officer Arrested in Bang Kapi for 'Uniform' Fraud File photo for reference only A man was arrested in Bang Kapi yesterday for pretending to be a police officer and using this deceptive role to steal a mobile phone. He reportedly committed the crime because he was fond of the police uniform. This arrest was made possible after a former coworker reported the crime, allowing the Thai police to locate the suspect. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329493-man-posing-as-police-officer-arrested-in-bang-kapi-for-uniform-fraud/

A man was arrested in Bang Kapi yesterday for pretending to be a police officer and using this deceptive role to steal a mobile phone. He reportedly committed the crime because he was fond of the police uniform. This arrest was made possible after a former coworker reported the crime, allowing the Thai police to locate the suspect. The police arrested the 45-year-old impersonator, Sanae, in a dormitory in Huamark, Bang Kapi, Bangkok. The arrest came after an investigation that started on June 8 when the victim lodged a complaint at the Chalong Krung Police Station. The victim, who used to work with Sanae as a security guard, explained that Sanae had masqueraded as a police officer. He narrated that Sanae had come up to him, falsely saying that he had lost his phone and needed to borrow his for an emergency call. Sanae vanished with the phone shortly after. The police traced Sanae's location via their investigations. During his arrest, Sanae admitted to the crime and showed them where he had hidden the stolen items in his dormitory. They discovered police uniforms and patrol equipment in his room. Sanae admitted his preference for police clothes and his intention to convince his friend that he was a real police officer. The police have accused Sanae of nighttime theft using a vehicle, drug abuse, and have detained him. The confiscated items and Sanae have been given to the Chalong Krung Police Station for further legal actions. The police are also investigating to find out if Sanae has committed similar crimes in the past or if he has had any accomplices. The results of this investigation will influence further actions and any extra charges against him. This incident stands as a warning to stay alert and vigilant in daily encounters, particularly when dealing with people claiming to be in positions of authority. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe