webfact

Cannabis entrepreneurs, farmers, and activists gathered in Bangkok to protest the government’s plan to reclassify marijuana as a narcotic, only two years after its decriminalisation. The rally, held yesterday in front of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific headquarters, saw nearly 2,000 signatures collected to support a legal petition aimed at halting the government’s move. Protesters displayed posters with messages such as "stop villainising cannabis." Jerawat Tanyaprirom, a cannabis business owner who helped gather signatures, stated that the petition would be filed with the Central Administrative Court against Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Petitioners were required to detail any financial losses they would incur if the government’s reclassification proceeded. “If the government backed down, we wouldn’t need to file this petition. But we want to have this as ammunition,” said Jerawat. Prime Minister Srettha’s recent decision to reverse decriminalisation has plunged Thailand’s cannabis industry into uncertainty. Bangkok-born Srettha announced that cannabis would be reclassified as a category 5 narcotic, making it illegal to produce, sell, import, export, or possess the plant and its products. This comes after Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalise cannabis in 2022. Currently, cannabis is designated as a controlled herb, and its recreational use is not entirely prohibited. This status has allowed thousands of dispensaries to thrive since 2022, selling cannabis buds, oil extracts, weed-infused candies, and baked goods. Under the existing drug law, these products must contain no more than 0.2% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for the high sensation. Cannabis advocacy groups are calling for government regulation of the industry through legislation rather than a blanket re-criminalisation. Writing Thailand’s Cannabis Future, an advocacy group, released a statement urging the government to avoid using the narcotics law, as it would restrict cannabis cultivation and trade to a select few. “If we use the narcotics law, we will be putting cannabis back in jail and allowing it to be grown by only some groups of people,” said the group. They also announced plans for another rally on June 9, which marks the second anniversary of decriminalisation. All-Time High Cannabis Dispensary owner Naren Tolani believes reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic is a major step backwards. “This industry has developed into a massive contributor to the Thai economy, and forcing the market back underground will have an immensely detrimental effect on people’s livelihood, and health, and of course will cause a major strain on the criminal justice system.” Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin recently announced that new legislation would require permits for growing and using cannabis for medical purposes and research, while recreational use would be banned. He assured that the permit system would not be burdensome for those willing to comply with the law. More than 1 million households have registered with authorities to cultivate cannabis, in addition to commercial growers aiming to capitalise on the growing demand. Despite the proposed reclassification, cannabis for medical and health purposes will still be permitted, according to the prime minister. Top picture: A pedestrian walks past a cannabis shop in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Dozens of pro-cannabis advocates in Thailand gathered at the health ministry on Thursday to oppose the government’s plan to relist the plant as a narcotic, two years after it was decriminalized. File photo (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

BREAKING New Tax Rules for Expats in Thailand Spark Concern Picture courtesy: MGR online Thailand's recent tax regulation changes have sent ripples through the expat community. By March 2025, foreign retirees and other expats in Thailand will be required to file income tax returns for the 2024 tax year, marking a significant shift in the nation’s approach to taxing foreign residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328516-new-tax-rules-for-expats-in-thailand-spark-concern/

Thailand's recent tax regulation changes have sent ripples through the expat community. By March 2025, foreign retirees and other expats in Thailand will be required to file income tax returns for the 2024 tax year, marking a significant shift in the nation’s approach to taxing foreign residents. Background on the New Tax Rules Announced by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin in October 2023, the new tax regime aims to widen the tax base to address the fiscal challenges posed by Thailand’s ageing population. The target is to ensure both economic stability and fair distribution of tax burdens. As a result of this new regime, some retirees could see tax bills exceeding 71,000 Thai Baht. Why the Change? Previously, a legal loophole allowed expats to avoid income tax if they declared that their income was not earned in Thailand within the same year. This loophole, established in 1985, was abolished in September 2023, compelling expats to declare all income earned from January 2024 onwards. The move is part of a broader effort to reduce income inequality and strengthen Thailand’s economic resilience for future challenges. Significant Impact on Expats For many foreign residents, this new requirement will mean navigating unfamiliar tax waters. Tax treaties between Thailand and other countries, including Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, may offer some relief. However, expats are advised to seek professional financial advice to understand how these treaties may impact their specific circumstances, reported ScandAsia. What to Expect With the first tax returns due at the end of March 2025, expats will need to get acquainted with the new system quickly. This development has spurred considerable concern, particularly among retirees who have enjoyed years of tax-free income. Looking Ahead As the March 2025 deadline approaches, the expat community in Thailand faces significant adjustments. Despite the challenges, proper planning and professional advice will be crucial in navigating this new landscape. The move represents a pivotal shift in Thailand's tax policy, emphasizing fairness and preparation for an ageing population. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 30 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1328513-thailand-live-thursday-30-may-2024/

Thai police arrest Frenchman for delivering cocaine using remote-controlled toy car Thai police have apprehended a French individual for attempting to ship cocaine hidden in a toy car to a friend in Cambodia. The drug-laden parcel was discovered by a courier company during routine X-ray checks, prompting them to alert authorities. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328484-thai-police-arrest-frenchman-for-delivering-cocaine-using-remote-controlled-toy-car/

Surprise Find: Chiang Mai Residents Discover 'Kangaroo' in the Middle of Doi Suthep Road Photo courtesy of The Thaiger On May 29th, a kangaroo was spotted at the entrance of Doi Suthep, slightly past Wat Sisoda, in Chiang Mai province, according to a video shared by CM108 Chiang Mai News on Facebook. The marsupial was found around 8:20 a.m., causing quite a buzz amongst social media users. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328473-surprise-find-chiang-mai-residents-discover-kangaroo-in-the-middle-of-doi-suthep-road/

A former transport minister in Thailand recently chose to personally repay a Japanese tourist who was overcharged by an unscrupulous tuk tuk driver in Bangkok. He gave 2,000 baht ($64) in cash to the tourist, stating it was his moral obligation as a Thai citizen to make amends. Former Minister Reimburses Japanese Tourist Overcharged by Tuk Tuk Driver Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328490-former-minister-reimburses-japanese-tourist-overcharged-by-tuk-tuk-driver/

UPDATES: Big visa changes from June 1 UPDATES: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328402-big-thailand-visa-changes-from-june-1/

Red Bull Heiress Sues for Defamation Over Son’s Hit-and-Run Scandal Picture courtesy: Matichon Weekly Chalerm Yoovidhya, the son of the Red Bull co-founder, has initiated legal proceedings against a TV presenter and a former police lieutenant colonel for defamation, demanding compensation of 50 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328442-red-bull-heiress-sues-for-defamation-over-son’s-hit-and-run-scandal/

Chalerm Yoovidhya, the son of the Red Bull co-founder, has initiated legal proceedings against a TV presenter and a former police lieutenant colonel for defamation, demanding compensation of 50 million baht. The accusations revolve around statements suggesting he used 300 million baht to influence the legal process surrounding his son Vorayuth ‘Boss’ Yoovidhya, who was involved in a fatal hit-and-run incident. In the case presented by Chalerm's lawyer, Ampol Kaewpan, the allegations are directed at Ubonrat Thao Noi, a TV host, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Sanit Mahathavorn. Both are accused of making defamatory statements on a television programme that implied Chalerm bribed officials to help his son evade justice. Vorayuth Yoovidhya, commonly known as 'Boss,' was implicated in a 2012 hit-and-run accident that resulted in the death of a police officer. Boss subsequently fled the country in a private jet, igniting widespread criticism about the privilege and impunity enjoyed by the rich in Thailand. Chalerm's lawsuit is centred on a broadcast aired on 29 February, where the host claimed his 300 million baht efforts failed to aid his son significantly. The programme's segments were shared extensively on TikTok, garnering over 1.4 million views, which Chalerm’s legal team contends has severely damaged his reputation. The lawsuit seeks not only financial compensation but also public apologies from the defendants. Chalerm demands these apologies be published on social media and in major Thai newspapers for seven consecutive days, along with the removal of the defamatory content. The case has been accepted by the Criminal Court, with a preliminary examination hearing scheduled for 2 September. Ampol states that the 50 million baht defamation suit reflects the gravity of the false accusations and Chalerm's standing. He further specifies that similar actions will be taken against anyone disseminating false information. This legal action highlights Chalerm’s determination to protect his family’s reputation and address what he perceives as widespread misinformation surrounding his son’s case. Picture courtesy: Matichon Weekly -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Faces Mental Health Crisis as Millions Affected Picture courtesy: Insurance Business Nearly 10 million individuals in Thailand are grappling with mental health issues, according to recent data from the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC). Startling figures released in their first-quarter report indicate that almost 11% of the population is at risk of suicide, and around 16% experience regular stress. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328439-thailand-faces-mental-health-crisis-as-millions-affected/

Nearly 10 million individuals in Thailand are grappling with mental health issues, according to recent data from the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC). Startling figures released in their first-quarter report indicate that almost 11% of the population is at risk of suicide, and around 16% experience regular stress. Danucha Pichayanan, Secretary-General of the NESDC, highlighted the severity of the situation, stating that mental health has become a critical concern for the nation. The continuous rise in psychiatric patients, from 1.3 million in 2015 to 2.9 million in 2023, underscores the escalating crisis. “Despite Thailand officially having 2.9 million patients who received medical treatment last year, the actual number of those with mental health issues may reach as many as 10 million, as many people don’t seek treatment,” Danucha explained. This disparity suggests a significant proportion of the population remains untreated, exacerbating the crisis beyond the global average. Between October 2023 and April 2024, the Department of Mental Health found that 15.5% of people with mental health problems experienced high-stress levels, 17.2% were at risk of depression, and 10.6% were at risk of suicide. These figures have worsened over previous years, indicating escalating mental health challenges with significant economic impacts. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that depression and anxiety contribute to the loss of about 12 billion workdays globally, resulting in an economic loss exceeding US$1 trillion (36 trillion baht). Nearly one in five individuals with mental health issues are unable to care for themselves, creating an additional burden on families and human resources. Alarmingly, less than a quarter of high-risk psychiatric patients receive adequate care. The NESDC attributes the increased rates of depression and anxiety to rising economic and social pressures. In 2023, these mental health issues surpassed methamphetamine and other substance abuses as the predominant mental health concerns. Danucha cited the alarming suicide rate of 7.94 per 100,000 people, nearing the peak of the 1997 Tom Yum Kung crisis. Echoing these concerns, recent research suggests that factors such as air pollution are further exacerbating mental health issues. A study in the UK revealed a 20% increase in depression among young people due to air pollution, while research from Mahidol University found that seven in ten people in Bangkok experience burnout at work. Picture courtesy: Insurance Business -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Man Arrested for Rape and Infecting Girl with HIV Picture courtesy: MGR online In a deeply distressing case that has shocked Bangkok and the wider community, a man has been arrested for sexually assaulting his step-granddaughter over a span of nearly a decade and infecting her with HIV. The suspect, a 59-year-old known as Nookarn, was taken into custody after evading initial police efforts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328437-thai-man-arrested-for-rape-and-infecting-girl-with-hiv/

In a deeply distressing case that has shocked Bangkok and the wider community, a man has been arrested for sexually assaulting his step-granddaughter over a span of nearly a decade and infecting her with HIV. The suspect, a 59-year-old known as Nookarn, was taken into custody after evading initial police efforts. The shocking ordeal began when the victim, now 16, was just seven years old. The abuse continued up until recently, unbeknownst to her grandmother, who shared the house. The girl, who only recently realised the gravity of her situation, reported to the police that she lived in fear due to continuous threats from Nookarn, who warned he would lock her in a duck coop or sell her to a brothel if she sought help. The arrest comes after the victim's brave decision to file a complaint with Bang Khen Police Station on April 28. Though Nookarn initially eluded capture, officers from the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Police Bureau (IDMB) found him working as a bus driver in Bangkok. After discreetly surveilling him, they arrested him on May 28 in a factory car park in Chachoengsao province. Upon arrest, Nookarn admitted to having sex with the victim but denied raping her, attempting to shift the blame to the victim by accusing her of provocation. He also denied giving her HIV, claiming he has never been tested despite his confidence in his health status. Authorities have since revealed that Nookarn has a criminal history, including a prior drug-related conviction for which he served two years behind bars. He now faces serious charges under Sections 276 and 377 of Thailand’s Criminal Law for sexual assault and assault of a minor. If convicted, Nookarn could face multiple decades in prison and significant fines. The case has raised urgent calls for heightened child protection measures and underscores the need for vigilant community and family intervention to prevent such atrocities. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS THAI CONSULATE SAVANNAKHET POLICY CHANGE The thai consulate in Savannakhet Lao will go to online appointment booking only effective June 1st (actually on Tuesday June 4th which is the first day they're open after the holiday). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328422-thai-consulate-savannakhet-policy-change

34 Singapore Airlines passengers still in hospital 1 week after deadly turbulence Most of the injuries sustained by passengers on Flight SQ321 from London to Singapore on May 21 involved the head or spine More than a dozen people needed surgery in Thailand, where the flight was diverted. 50 people who were on the flight are still in Bangkok Medical personnel and ambulances wait for injured passengers from Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321 at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Thailand on May 21. Photo: EPA-EFE Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328430-34-singapore-airlines-passengers-still-in-hospital-1-week-after-deadly-turbulence/

Most of the injuries sustained by passengers on Flight SQ321 from London to Singapore on May 21 involved the head or spine More than a dozen people needed surgery in Thailand, where the flight was diverted. 50 people who were on the flight are still in Bangkok Medical personnel and ambulances wait for injured passengers from Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321 at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Thailand on May 21. Photo: EPA-EFE Thirty-four Singapore Airlines Ltd. passengers remain hospitalised in Bangkok almost one week after their flight struck turbulence, underscoring the severity of the fatal incident. In an update late on Monday, the airline said 50 people who were on the London-Singapore service on May 21 are still in the Thai capital, including those receiving medical treatment. All the crew from Flight SQ321 have returned to Singapore. Thai authorities have said most of the injuries involved the head or spine, and more than a dozen people needed surgery. Singapore Airlines has since introduced tighter cabin restrictions during turbulence, though stopped short of compelling passengers to wear seat belts for the whole flight. The airline said it’s cooperating fully with authorities investigating the incident, which left one man dead. The plane made an emergency landing in Bangkok. One dead and dozens injured after Singapore Airlines flight hit by severe turbulence Full story: SCMP 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 29 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328425-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-29-may-2024/

The government has approved several changes to visa requirements, In a bid to boost tourism, These include visa-free and visa-on-arrival schemes, extended stays for students, and reduced health insurance requirements for retirees. The number of countries eligible for visa-free entry will increase from 57 to 93. New five-year visas for working tourists allow stays of up to 180 days, which may be extended for another 6 months at a time. Foreign higher education students can now stay for one year after graduation instead of having to leave immediately, these changes come into effect from 1st of June. Hundreds of cannabis entrepreneurs, farmers, and activists rallied in Bangkok yesterday, threatening legal action against the government's plan to reclassify marijuana as a narcotic. They collected 2,000 signatures on a petition outlining potential financial losses if the government proceeds. The proposed u turn has created new uncertainty for Thailand's cannabis industry. Thailand is moving forward with plans to join BRICS, an intergovernmental organization currently expanding beyond its founding members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The group was designed to bring together the world's most important developing countries, to challenge the political and economic power of the wealthier nations of North America and Western Europe. The Department of Justice will amend rules to let pretrial suspects avoid jail by wearing electronic ankle monitors. the aim is to reduce prison overcrowding; currently, Thai prisons hold over 280,000 inmates, far exceeding the 180,000 capacity, with about 50,000 awaiting trial. Around the region: A Hong Kong court will deliver verdicts this week in the biggest case brought against pro-democracy campaigners since China imposed a national security law to crush dissent. Forty-seven people from a cross-section of Hong Kong’s then opposition face life in prison on charges of subversion over political activities in 2020, following democracy protests that saw millions take to the streets. 31 have pleaded guilty. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thundershowers, 34 degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with thundershowers 35 Pattaya: bright but Cloudy 33. Phuket and the south: Sunny, 33. Hua Hin: fine and sunny, becoming cloudy this afternoon 35C AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-05-29 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Silent on Senators’ Impeachment Attempt Amidst Political Tensions Srettha Tavesin. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today refrained from commenting on speculations tying numerous senators, seeking his impeachment, to Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328424-pm-silent-on-senators’-impeachment-attempt-amidst-political-tensions/

Srettha Thavisin. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today refrained from commenting on speculations tying numerous senators, seeking his impeachment, to Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan. This comes as the impeachment case, filed by 40 senators, progresses through the Constitutional Court. Srettha has a 15-day period to submit his defence. Ignoring calls for further accusations, Srettha emphasised unity within the coalition government, including Palang Pracharath. The senators who filed the case are believed to have affiliations with either former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha or Prawit. The core of the controversy revolves around Srettha’s appointment of Pichit Chuenban to the cabinet. Pichit, a former lawyer for influential figure Thaksin Shinawatra, was named as a minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office. Critics argue that Srettha violated constitutional and ethical standards, given Pichit's past misconduct. In response to mounting pressure, Pichit resigned, yet the impeachment bid remains active against both him and Srettha. The challenge is centred on whether Srettha knowingly overlooked Pichit's past ethical breaches for political gain. In 2008, Pichit had been convicted of attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials, resulting in a six-month jail sentence. Prawit Wongsuwan. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The upcoming court proceedings could determine Srettha’s political future. If found guilty, he risks losing his position and facing a ban from political activities for several years. Analysts forecast a court decision within the next few months, with significant implications for Thailand's political landscape. For now, Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin remains focused on governance, navigating the legal and political complexities without inflammatory statements. Meanwhile, the nation watches closely as developments unfold, mindful of the potential shifts in the balance of power. -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Welcomes 14.3 Million Tourists, Boosts Economy Photo courtesy: TAT news Thailand has seen a significant surge in international tourism, with 14.3 million visitors arriving in the first five months of this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328421-thailand-welcomes-143-million-tourists-boosts-economy/

Thailand has seen a significant surge in international tourism, with 14.3 million visitors arriving in the first five months of this year. This influx has generated nearly 683 billion baht (US$18.7 billion) in revenue, a boon for the country's economy. The Tourism and Sports Minister, Sermsak Pongpanich, presented these optimistic figures, attributing this growth to increased confidence and eased travel restrictions. Leading the charge in visitor numbers is China, contributing 2.9 million tourists. Following closely are Malaysia with 1.9 million, Russia with 836,868, India with 810,513, and South Korea with 785,600 visitors. These figures highlight a particular spike from short-haul markets like Malaysia, India, Singapore, and Indonesia, with an overall increase of 7.3%. During the past week alone, Malaysia saw a surge of 36,242 tourists, a 44.49% increase from the previous week. The weekly tally stood at 596,552 international tourists, marking a 4.30% rise compared to the week before. On average, Thailand is currently greeting 85,222 international tourists daily, with numbers expected to climb even higher amid upcoming public holidays in nearby countries and relaxed travel restrictions. Several key government initiatives have facilitated this boom. The visa waiver agreement with China is set to enhance tourist confidence and encourage airlines to increase flight frequencies. Similarly, Thailand has waived visa requirements for visitors from India, Taiwan, and Kazakhstan. Streamlining entry processes, such as removing the TM.6 immigration form at key land checkpoints for Malaysian and Laotian tourists, has also played a significant role. The tourism sector is critical to Thailand’s economy, and these rising figures indicate a strong rebound. By focusing on easing travel restrictions and improving partnerships with key countries, Thailand aims to sustain this momentum. The positive trend observed so far suggests a bright outlook for the remainder of the year, signalling robust growth for the nation's tourism industry. Photo courtesy: TAT news -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cracking news: Egg prices to soar due to extreme weather by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of gpointstudio on Freepik As announced by the Thai Cooperative Network for Chicken Egg Producers, egg prices are set to rise by 20 satangs per egg tomorrow, citing the extreme weather as the reason for the increase. The farm price for eggs will be 4 baht each, marking an increase of 6 baht per tray. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328420-cracking-news-egg-prices-to-soar-due-to-extreme-weather/

As announced by the Thai Cooperative Network for Chicken Egg Producers, egg prices are set to rise by 20 satangs per egg tomorrow, citing the extreme weather as the reason for the increase. The farm price for eggs will be 4 baht each, marking an increase of 6 baht per tray. The members of the network include producers from Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai-Lamphun, and the Lower Chao Phraya River Basin. These organisations collectively decided on the price hike to support their members during this difficult period. The network has informed its members and egg farmers about the price adjustment, citing the extreme heat this year as a significant factor. The heatwave has severely impacted the health and productivity of the chickens, leading to a reduced supply of eggs. Consequently, the cooperatives decided to adjust the prices to reflect these changes. The representatives detailed that the price of mixed eggs at the farm level will increase by 20 satangs per egg, resulting in a new price of 4 baht per egg. This translates to an increase of 6 baht per tray, effective from tomorrow. Farmers and cooperative members have been notified of the impending price increase, and preparations are being made to implement the new prices, reported Khaosod. The announcement comes at a time when consumers are already facing rising costs in various sectors. The increase in egg prices is expected to have a ripple effect, influencing the cost of related products and potentially impacting household budgets. However, the cooperatives emphasise that the price adjustment is necessary to ensure the sustainability of egg production under the current circumstances. As the new prices take effect tomorrow, consumers should be prepared for the increase in egg costs. The cooperatives will continue to monitor the situation closely and make further adjustments if necessary to support their farmers and ensure a stable supply of eggs in the market. The decision highlights the need for adaptive measures and support systems to help agricultural communities navigate these difficulties and maintain their livelihoods. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of gpointstudio on Freepik -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe