Popular Post webfact Posted January 29, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted January 29, 2022 Zebras, carnage, marijuana and murder - but don’t rush to interpret Thai news! Rooster’s first reaction to news that “sandboxes” might be set up to cater to tourists (and locals) who want to enjoy recreational marijuana was “Oh Goody”. Then I remembered where I was living, the Kingdom of Thailand. And that it’s always just as well to take time to reflect on the Thai news and not overreact. There are always lashings of smoke and mirrors and very little can be taken at face value. Maybe they should have a national social media site: Behind The Face-book. The story coming out of Pattaya News was that we’d soon be able to light up in the resort and tourists would be flocking there for spliffs. Dream on. Unless of course you’d like to contribute to the Pattaya Policeman’s Ball fund. They must be rubbing their greasy mitts on Beach Road at the prospect. The latest machinations in deciding the legal status of the greatest herb known to mankind is all political posturing. The Bhumjaithai party - under Anutin - led their election manifesto on legalization. They have found that what the people really want is not to grow hemp but to enjoy a smoke. But now they are in too deep to backtrack and lose face. Party registrar Suphachai Jaisamut, also responsible on a House legislative committee, is circling the wagons and insisting the drug is legal and everyone can grow it freely. Nonsense. They are talking about growing hemp, nothing with any decent amount of THC in it. Why Thai families should want to put completely non-nutritious leaves that taste horrible in their Tom Yam is beyond me. They also won’t be able to extract oil for medicinal purposes unless they grow a lot and are very well organized. All the while waiting for plod to knock on their door with a test kit and carry gran away in the pick-up because her pee turned purple. If the recreational use of marijuana is allowed - something that is decades overdue in my opinion - it will take many more years. Far longer than a legalized casino even. Opposition - historical and based on nothing more than “Reefer Madness” prejudices - remains rife. This can be seen on a forum like ASEAN NOW where critics of pot are usually alcohol addicts in denial who think what they imbibe is safe and, of course, not a drug!! “It’s been around for thousands of years,” they burble. “It damages no one unless abused”. Well, marijuana has been around for longer. And even if you have lots of it you won’t go around assaulting and murdering people and getting in the news. You’ll just smile a lot, be highly creative and OD on chocolate. Win-Win-Win. The Bangkok Post did their readership a disservice by going with the absurd headline “Pot smokers told to hang fire for now” after comments by DPM Wissanu. Of course he wasn’t suggesting that anyone will be allowed to smoke it. Just that householders ought to hold on before planting. How and where Thais will get these 0.2% THC ganja plants was not explained. I am led to believe from the government. Frankly, the brains of journalists have not caught up with the issues and can’t see the impending mess after the narcotics list was altered without due diligence. Plod are a law unto themselves at the best of times, they don’t need any more leeway. So forget Pattaya or anywhere else becoming a mini Amsterdam any time soon. If you light up in Thailand make sure the wind is not blowing in the direction of the local “rong phak”(police station). Big news all week were Zebra Crossings. Those places where - according to legend - if you get knocked down you actually qualify for compensation! Lines on the road where little old Thai/Chinese men raise their hands in the hope that will save them on their death march. . The Thai media almost forgot Covid after Dr Kratai was killed on one the previous week outside the kidney institute on Phayathai. They spent the entire seven days thereafter running around finding people knocked down on the crossings. That wasn’t hard. Crossing one and expecting to live is an exercise in idiocy. Many drivers observe that stopping is likely to get you rear ended. Or endanger the pedestrian even more by instilling in them a false sense of security as another vehicle piles into them on the outside overtaking the stopped traffic. I’ll stop for a pedestrian; I like it when I see that look in their eyes of love and bafflement for the kind western driver or whitey on a bike who clearly has a screw loose. But I’ll only stop if the road is at least 100 meters clear behind me! DPM Prawit - who has meant to have been improving the roads since 2019 - got out his not inconsiderable lips so that they could be serviced. He ordered the police and every agency under the hot Thai sun to turn out and rejig the law adding points to licences and increasing fines from 1,000 baht to 4,000. Thong Lo cops - renowned for their commitment to shaking down tourists and darker skinned people - promised to fine thousands for Zebra encroachment. A nice little earner, as wide boys Arthur Daley or Del Boy might have said. As with the carnage on the roads nothing will change until Thais - in fact all of us road users in Thailand - are trained to follow the rules rather than pick and choose what suits us or what we can get away with. And until those of us who break the law actually face reasonable sanction from law enforcement - who currently do almost nothing - to reinforce and propagate a new culture. Despite the public hoo-ha, Dr Kratai's death will tragically mean nothing outside her family, change nothing and achieve nothing. After the smoke has dissipated and the mirrors have cracked through poor maintenance everything will be back to normal. “Don’t put your daughter on the crossing, Mrs Worthington”. The most graphic carnage photo of the week had to be after a Benz went through a red light outside Chula uni in Bangkok and creamed a Honda. Both vehicles then overturned. I dread to think what happened to the drivers, it wasn’t reported. Rivalling the roads for big news this week was Prayut’s few hours jolly to Riyadh. Dozens of his cronies got on a huge Boeing and went to the Saudi capital to suck up to Mohammad bin Salman. They appear to be putting the Blue Diamond affair behind them now and restoring diplomatic relations. Essentially a janitor stole gems from a Saudi palace, lots of diplomats were killed and police generals let off and the Arabs wouldn’t speak to the Thais for three decades. Now they are going to reintroduce direct flights come May and the Thais are preparing to have an ambassador in Riyadh, doubtless just an appropriate stone’s throw from the public square where they do the beheadings of women who drive… Prayut has also talked about sending Thai workers to Saudi where I’m sure they’ll be soooo well treated. Trusting MBS to move SA forward twenty centuries is like putting your faith that one of those pythons we see daily on the news will not swallow your pet cat. Saudi Arabia is not my cup of tea. It’s not even my chalice of poison. The same goes for the rulers and laws of the UAE. I may watch the World Cup but I insist on calling the host country Catarrh and coughing. I am actually banned from most of the Middle East - due to religious opinions and other matters - which suits me just fine. Fallout from the murder of British man Marcus Evans in Kanchanaburi and the attack on his mate Shaun Dagnan was minimal. Both “Daggy” and his missus Pranee added me on Facebook but declined to talk about what actually happened. He said he had 16 wounds in his head, inflicted by the sickle presumably, but was home by Wednesday, four days after the incident. I found it vaguely disconcerting how he referred to what happened to his murdered pal in kind of “text-speak” with so many exclamation marks. Maybe that’s the younger generation for you - he’s only 54!!!!! A crowdfunding appeal was started on his behalf (by a woman called Nicole Shaw) to raise 5,000 quid because “his travel insurance had lapsed” after an “unexpected extended stay”. He’s married to a Thai woman, been here three years and will be eligible for Ministry of Tourism handouts that could run into a tidy sum.(They don’t just hand out baskets of fruit and Brands chicken essence). Money was nevertheless pouring in on “Just Giving” with 40,000 baht added in the first few hours. Yes, a terrible thing happened and he and the murdered man deserve our sympathy. But I don’t think I’d be resorting to crowdfunding like this - I certainly didn’t dream of it when my daughter nearly died last year. I’m also not sure I’d go to a funeral in Thailand in shorts that look like boxers; these rather salubrious-less shots were posted Friday (a strange day for a funeral given it's “wan suk” - yes different spelling from ‘happiness’ but even so). Plod was everywhere this week. Down in Krabi they actually decided to do their job; just for five days this week, they didn’t want to overstretch the long arm of the law. Drugs and guns were on their radar for the proverbial crackdown that amused the forum. Big Joke - Lt-Gen Surachate Hakpan - was EVERYWHERE! One minute he was in Trang making sure the cop who raped 12 and 15 year olds was locked up after he skipped bail. Then he was in Nakhon Sri Thammarat presiding over the “judicial shooting” of hitman and drug dealer “Ai Krek” who met his maker after firing at commandos with a war weapon and hurling explosives. Way to go! This all followed a BJ trip to Phatthalung where he declared that illegal gathering of birds’ nests was over after the last of many miscreants were detained. I wonder if the Lt-Gen had time to pop home on his southern tour to his mum and dad in Songkhla? And I wonder if they call him Nong Joke? Equally amusing, and vital questions were asked on the forum after a mum and her “tomboy” daughter (why should this matter!?) found a two year old’s 15,000 baht gold necklace in a convenience store. Yes, of course they couldn’t hand it in to staff because they’d be distrustful, yes of course they ran out of the store because they saw a farang, yes of course they were as pure as the driven snow and never intended to keep the necklace. Funny how being caught on CCTV and being shamed on social media makes people so righteous these days. If you see a two year old smiling with his necklace in place, that’ll be him. Thanks to readers who last week called my column “overlong”, “fluff” and “bragging”. Come on, it was only 3,000 words, it contained an enormous amount of useful advice to parents and, besides, I’m the best columnist in Thailand since the advent of khanompang in slices. Yes, don’t worry, you won’t be bringing my self-esteem down to your level. And get some kids, it may make you less twisted and bitter! In international news while Europe teetered on the brink of war in the Ukraine, the rain was continuing to pour on Boris’ in the UK. You have to admire the man’s bravado. But will the Conservative party be willing to persist with him at the Ballot Box? He gave them a big win in 2019 but the UK electorate are a tad ticked off this time after they followed Covid rules and he partied. Boris came up smelling of roses after his Omicron gamble paid off while Prayut and Anutin failed, cancelling Test and Go albeit for a short time. Back in Thailand the tourism momentum may build again as the scheme has been resurrected. Though perhaps not in time for Chinese New Year that starts Tuesday welcoming 2022, the Year of the Water Tiger seeing off the Year of the (P)Ox. My 2022 is proceeding nicely after getting my “Rooster Booster” at Bang Sue Grand Central station last Saturday. The whole process has been well organized - at least for me - so credit where it’s due. I bought a t-shirt then had 24 hours in bed with the effects of the Pfizer vax. I hope I don’t have to have any more. Finally, the kingdom said they would declare the pandemic over with or without WHO approval and start calling it “endemic” Prayut thought this simply meant that the “emic” had now come to an end though he couldn’t remember who had panned it in the first place. Maybe he’ll write a touching song about it with catchy lyrics and call it “Bye, Bye Corona, Bye, Bye” and get Prawit to link arms and lead the chorus. After all, it ain't over till the fat “lady” sings, is it? Rooster -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-01-29 - Aetna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information 26 4 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post bwanajohn Posted January 29, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted January 29, 2022 The marijuana issues is not about how dangerous it is. Its a civil rights issue. Why are people persecuted for using one substitute to feel some kind of euphoria and not another. Its like saying you can injure some one with a knife but not a brick.. Historical the prohibition against certain substances like pot and opium was to have a way to harass certain ethnic groups Specifically Chinese and Latinos and Blacks ,then artists and musicians. This whole idea of trying to compare booze to pot to opium etc as to it's inherent danger to society is a distraction. I remember having a discussion with my parents about this many many years ago .When the comparison with alcohol came up the accepted logic from the Media at the time was " just because you have syphilis you shouldn't go out and get gonorrhea ..NO that's not the issue ..the issue is persecuting one group of people for substantially the same activity. In this case wanting to use a substance to feel relax and feel good . 14 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
malibukid Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 unfortunately Thailand missed the party and was never considered a hep place, while the rest of the world was revolutionized during the 60's, heck they don't even dance here. unless you consider certain other attractions, Thailand will never be cool. my friends go to Ibiza. 1 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post chickenslegs Posted January 29, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted January 29, 2022 1 hour ago, webfact said: Despite the public hoo-ha, Dr Kratai's death will tragically mean nothing outside her family, change nothing and achieve nothing. Not quite "nothing". They will be removing the pedestrian crossing. It's a great idea and, if copied across the kingdom, will reduce pedestrian crossing fatalities to zero in no time. 1 9 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BostonRob2 Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 22 minutes ago, chickenslegs said: Not quite "nothing". They will be removing the pedestrian crossing. It's a great idea and, if copied across the kingdom, will reduce pedestrian crossing fatalities to zero in no time. There is that! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MyFriend You Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 2 hours ago, webfact said: Behind The Face-book The Kingdom will collapse if they "lose it". Classic Rooster. Thanx, I needed that was a bad day until I read this.. 2 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post sawadee1947 Posted January 29, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted January 29, 2022 3 hours ago, webfact said: don’t worry, you won’t be bringing my self-esteem down to your level. And get some kids, it may make you less twisted and bitter! Ok, we see it hurts. But that is fate of all writers. Some like what you write and some dislike your elaborated stuff. I reckon it would be better to pick only one event/incident and go from there. ???????? 2 1 1 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sawadee1947 Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 3 hours ago, webfact said: I am actually banned from most of the Middle East - due to religious opinions and other matters - which suits me just fine. Well, that's interesting. Hopefully not involved in criminal matters?? Tell us, why you are banned! ???? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RichardColeman Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 I believe people should have the right to smoke weed - if that's your thing. But please just do it half way up a mountain, it stinks. Thank you ???? 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Stefanix Posted January 29, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted January 29, 2022 Thanks for this overlong column, I love it! Regarding the pot thing: I think a train has been started that can't be stopped anymore. Legalization has started all over the world with Luxembourg and Germany being next in Europe. Who will be first in Asia? Once its legal elsewhere, people would not need to come to Thailand just to smoke pot. And this would maybe be the best possible situation: Smoking pot is just as normal as drinking a beer and not a Thai attraction. Maybe worth to wait a bit more. 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Thunglom Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 If I want to see anything on road safety in Thailand, I find putting in the search word "carnage" is the most successful Sadly this shows how far the media are from understanding the issues of road safety in Thailand. The media is part of the problem. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BostonRob2 Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 1 hour ago, Thunglom said: If I want to see anything on road safety in Thailand, I find putting in the search word "carnage" is the most successful Sadly this shows how far the media are from understanding the issues of road safety in Thailand. The media is part of the problem. Why? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stevemercer Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 In international news while Europe teetered on the brink of war in the Ukraine, the rain was continuing to pour on Boris’ in the UK. PM Boris reminds me of Waldo in the UK's Black Mirror 'Waldo Moment'. While the fictional Waldo did not get elected, Boris did. Hopefully Boris doesn't suffer the fate of the British PM in the very first episode of Black Mirror ('.The National Anthem'). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Thunglom Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 29 minutes ago, BostonRob2 said: Why? Because they don't understand road safety and just rely on cliche'd headlines to attract other people who don't understand. If they want to help, they should be passing information on that helps people to understand the issues facing Thailand in road safety. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mark mark Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 Edited and Re Posted - Well I do think that the good Old MJ should be legal also !!! But well, Like, Alcohol, should not be underestimated mated in it's chronic debilitating effect, if it IS abused also !!! and apparently the new Hybrid strains are much better, and more powerful that we ever used to be able to get when we were young !!! … (and had 5 K jammed dup our Chimney on occasions !!! ???) ... I have worked on Building sites where three quarters of the crew were pretty much totally stoned after Lunch !!! Like I was the Young, ... boss so did not eat with them, but I did know what was going on, I just turned a blind eye .... like when the Front End Loader driver was fully stoned, as he jiggled the Bucket, above the laborers heads, as he dropped the screenings in to the trench, ... to lay the sewer line on !!! ... Like talk about trust ??? ... or was it just plane stupidity ??? ... ... If I was the Forman again now I would never stand for it, but well back then I was young ... Still, eventually .... (Steptoe) ... In a rush to get off and down the Pub !!! …. I eventually slid the Van, with the whole crew in it, sideways down an embankment and got it jammed in between the Rock breaker and the batter !!! ... and then to add insult to Injury !!! … as the Rock breaker operator had hearing protectors on … and could not see us at the back, and he slew the machine around for the next rock, … and the heavy counter weight, back section of it crushed in the whole of the Left side of the van in and tipped it over on to two wheels !!! .... Lucky they were all stoned right !!! ... As I got out and ran Down the batter … Arms waving … ... Shouting “Stop Stop !!! You’re <Deleted> ing my car up” !!!! (Lost that job right there and then, needless to say !!! ... Dropped what was left of the van back at the yard, and went home. ) Not to mention when drill 2 dropped 2 rods down the hole, and lost them ! ? … and then the Drills Forman drove the rubber tire over a cliffs … after jumping off of course .. ... and Truck 35 going down the load out backwards ... and I saw the young drivers eyes after, .... looking like two red <deleted> Holes in the snow !!! ... They possibly breathalyzes him, and he would have passed naturally (All of them would have !!!) ... They did not have the Lick the stick back then !!! ... Yes have you ever been driving down the freeway at 90 and the driver starts to get twitchy, and pulled a little pipe out of the glove box, and pulls two cones as he continues on at 90 with one hand !!! ... Like Marijuana CAN ruin men’s Lives !!! AND HUMANS EXISTENCE !!! ... Just the same as Alcohol !!! … If it becomes the only thing in their Poor wasted Lives !!! ... … So yes Legalize it !!! But make sure that all the cops have the lick the stick test kits first !!! … Like in Australia, that Does !!! seem to be having Some, effect ? … in keeping the roads a Bit,, Safer at least !! Ps … Back in the Kingdom now !!! 20 People on a 300 seat aircraft from Singapore !!!!! … and apparently they are flying all over the world empty, as the Airlines want to keep their slots in all the major airports … What a Tragedy !!! Like this has just GOT TO END !!! … I am the only one that I know who was a former long stayer here who has made it back … that I know ??? … so well that ever they say on how Crazy I am … I CAN get things done right !!! … Like a full degree in Social behavior skills, 6 months of counseling, … and a full computer science degree needed to even have a hope of getting back here the way things are just now !!! … And well after hearing about the poor guy that uses a lot of exclamation Marks !!! when describing getting attacked after drinking for 2 days straight, … as he used a lot of them in his go fund me apparently so you say Roster ??? … So, Maybe time for me to stop !!! Mark mark !!! Home again !!!! HOME !!! … And feeling great again !!! for the first time in nearly 2 years !!! <Deleted> what a <deleted> of a virus this whole thing has been !!! ... and well, bad management, corruption, and dictatorial opportunities abounding now !!! … The stupidity just has to stop !!! ... We have to open normal things up (Keep Night clubs close !!! Like why not !!! they are just a disaster waiting to happen just now any way) … but open ALL people work places, and the schools. And everywhere !!! ... Let people return to their Families before they lose it totally !!! ..... Vaccinate every one !!! ... Vaccinate every one !!! !!! (We ALL just want to be able to live Normally again !!!) .... Send the Anti Vackseers to the south Pole, for their own safety ….... and well start really REALLY seriously looking after the Ole people or anyone else with preexisting conditions !!! … … And I do not think that they will be able to control Omicron, like I think that No one anywhere else, can just now either ??? It just comes on so fast, and then goes in 2 days I think … so young and healthy people do not even realize that they have got it !!! … But well if you are Old, or have Pre-existing problems !!! Well you better have been vaccinated is all that I can say, and possibly within 5 Months ??? …. As, as mild as it is ??? It Probably will just Hammer anyone who is old, or with Pre Existing weaknesses !!!... and Fast !!! … Get Vaccinated !!! Like just about everyone I know around here near Ayutthaya is !!! … (And they should have let “NoVax” Play !!! (Or “Go Home” Jokavich, as they started calling him in Australia) … Just fined him a lot ! and given it to homeless services, … and then filmed them washing all of the Eggs off his car, every Mourning, and evening after the matches !!! Har Har !!! Right !!! … Like how could we throw Eggs at him !!! … When he is back in good Old Serbia !!! ??? … Right !!! ??? (And another win for Scomo and the selfish Vote buyers and Loony’s !!!) … 1 4 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Stupooey Posted January 29, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted January 29, 2022 36 minutes ago, Mark mark said: Edited and Re Posted - Well I do think that the good Old MJ should be legal also !!! But well, Like, Alcohol, should not be underestimated mated in it's chronic debilitating effect, if it IS abused also !!! and apparently the new Hybrid strains are much better, and more powerful that we ever used to be able to get when we were young !!! … (and had 5 K jammed dup our Chimney on occasions !!! ???) ... I have worked on Building sites where three quarters of the crew were pretty much totally stoned after Lunch !!! Like I was the Young, ... boss so did not eat with them, but I did know what was going on, I just turned a blind eye .... like when the Front End Loader driver was fully stoned, as he jiggled the Bucket, above the laborers heads, as he dropped the screenings in to the trench, ... to lay the sewer line on !!! ... Like talk about trust ??? ... or was it just plane stupidity ??? ... ... If I was the Forman again now I would never stand for it, but well back then I was young ... Still, eventually .... (Steptoe) ... In a rush to get off and down the Pub !!! …. I eventually slid the Van, with the whole crew in it, sideways down an embankment and got it jammed in between the Rock breaker and the batter !!! ... and then to add insult to Injury !!! … as the Rock breaker operator had hearing protectors on … and could not see us at the back, and he slew the machine around for the next rock, … and the heavy counter weight, back section of it crushed in the whole of the Left side of the van in and tipped it over on to two wheels !!! .... Lucky they were all stoned right !!! ... As I got out and ran Down the batter … Arms waving … ... Shouting “Stop Stop !!! You’re <Deleted> ing my car up” !!!! (Lost that job right there and then, needless to say !!! ... Dropped what was left of the van back at the yard, and went home. ) Not to mention when drill 2 dropped 2 rods down the hole, and lost them ! ? … and then the Drills Forman drove the rubber tire over a cliffs … after jumping off of course .. ... and Truck 35 going down the load out backwards ... and I saw the young drivers eyes after, .... looking like two red <deleted> Holes in the snow !!! ... They possibly breathalyzes him, and he would have passed naturally (All of them would have !!!) ... They did not have the Lick the stick back then !!! ... Yes have you ever been driving down the freeway at 90 and the driver starts to get twitchy, and pulled a little pipe out of the glove box, and pulls two cones as he continues on at 90 with one hand !!! ... Like Marijuana CAN ruin men’s Lives !!! AND HUMANS EXISTENCE !!! ... Just the same as Alcohol !!! … If it becomes the only thing in their Poor wasted Lives !!! ... … So yes Legalize it !!! But make sure that all the cops have the lick the stick test kits first !!! … Like in Australia, that Does !!! seem to be having Some, effect ? … in keeping the roads a Bit,, Safer at least !! Ps … Back in the Kingdom now !!! 20 People on a 300 seat aircraft from Singapore !!!!! … and apparently they are flying all over the world empty, as the Airlines want to keep their slots in all the major airports … What a Tragedy !!! Like this has just GOT TO END !!! … I am the only one that I know who was a former long stayer here who has made it back … that I know ??? … so well that ever they say on how Crazy I am … I CAN get things done right !!! … Like a full degree in Social behavior skills, 6 months of counseling, … and a full computer science degree needed to even have a hope of getting back here the way things are just now !!! … And well after hearing about the poor guy that uses a lot of exclamation Marks !!! when describing getting attacked after drinking for 2 days straight, … as he used a lot of them in his go fund me apparently so you say Roster ??? … So, Maybe time for me to stop !!! Mark mark !!! Home again !!!! HOME !!! … And feeling great again !!! for the first time in nearly 2 years !!! <Deleted> what a <deleted> of a virus this whole thing has been !!! ... and well, bad management, corruption, and dictatorial opportunities abounding now !!! … The stupidity just has to stop !!! ... We have to open normal things up (Keep Night clubs close !!! Like why not !!! they are just a disaster waiting to happen just now any way) … but open ALL people work places, and the schools. And everywhere !!! ... Let people return to their Families before they lose it totally !!! ..... Vaccinate every one !!! ... Vaccinate every one !!! !!! (We ALL just want to be able to live Normally again !!!) .... Send the Anti Vackseers to the south Pole, for their own safety ….... and well start really REALLY seriously looking after the Ole people or anyone else with preexisting conditions !!! … … And I do not think that they will be able to control Omicron, like I think that No one anywhere else, can just now either ??? It just comes on so fast, and then goes in 2 days I think … so young and healthy people do not even realize that they have got it !!! … But well if you are Old, or have Pre-existing problems !!! Well you better have been vaccinated is all that I can say, and possibly within 5 Months ??? …. As, as mild as it is ??? It Probably will just Hammer anyone who is old, or with Pre Existing weaknesses !!!... and Fast !!! … Get Vaccinated !!! Like just about everyone I know around here near Ayutthaya is !!! … (And they should have let “NoVax” Play !!! (Or “Go Home” Jokavich, as they started calling him in Australia) … Just fined him a lot ! and given it to homeless services, … and then filmed them washing all of the Eggs off his car, every Mourning, and evening after the matches !!! Har Har !!! Right !!! … Like how could we throw Eggs at him !!! … When he is back in good Old Serbia !!! ??? … Right !!! ??? (And another win for Scomo and the selfish Vote buyers and Loony’s !!!) … ??? !!! 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sambum Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 "Maybe he’ll write a touching song about it with catchy lyrics and call it “Bye, Bye Corona, Bye, Bye” and get Prawit to link arms and lead the chorus." I honestly can not think of a more vomit inducing "footline" to finish off your column this week - you should have omitted the bit about the fat lady singing, and let people's imagionation run riot with that motley crew basking in the "footlights"! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sambum Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 55 minutes ago, Mark mark said: Edited and Re Posted - Well I do think that the good Old MJ should be legal also !!! But well, Like, Alcohol, should not be underestimated mated in it's chronic debilitating effect, if it IS abused also !!! and apparently the new Hybrid strains are much better, and more powerful that we ever used to be able to get when we were young !!! … (and had 5 K jammed dup our Chimney on occasions !!! ???) ... I have worked on Building sites where three quarters of the crew were pretty much totally stoned after Lunch !!! Like I was the Young, ... boss so did not eat with them, but I did know what was going on, I just turned a blind eye .... like when the Front End Loader driver was fully stoned, as he jiggled the Bucket, above the laborers heads, as he dropped the screenings in to the trench, ... to lay the sewer line on !!! ... Like talk about trust ??? ... or was it just plane stupidity ??? ... ... If I was the Forman again now I would never stand for it, but well back then I was young ... Still, eventually .... (Steptoe) ... In a rush to get off and down the Pub !!! …. I eventually slid the Van, with the whole crew in it, sideways down an embankment and got it jammed in between the Rock breaker and the batter !!! ... and then to add insult to Injury !!! … as the Rock breaker operator had hearing protectors on … and could not see us at the back, and he slew the machine around for the next rock, … and the heavy counter weight, back section of it crushed in the whole of the Left side of the van in and tipped it over on to two wheels !!! .... Lucky they were all stoned right !!! ... As I got out and ran Down the batter … Arms waving … ... Shouting “Stop Stop !!! You’re <Deleted> ing my car up” !!!! (Lost that job right there and then, needless to say !!! ... Dropped what was left of the van back at the yard, and went home. ) Not to mention when drill 2 dropped 2 rods down the hole, and lost them ! ? … and then the Drills Forman drove the rubber tire over a cliffs … after jumping off of course .. ... and Truck 35 going down the load out backwards ... and I saw the young drivers eyes after, .... looking like two red <deleted> Holes in the snow !!! ... They possibly breathalyzes him, and he would have passed naturally (All of them would have !!!) ... They did not have the Lick the stick back then !!! ... Yes have you ever been driving down the freeway at 90 and the driver starts to get twitchy, and pulled a little pipe out of the glove box, and pulls two cones as he continues on at 90 with one hand !!! ... Like Marijuana CAN ruin men’s Lives !!! AND HUMANS EXISTENCE !!! ... Just the same as Alcohol !!! … If it becomes the only thing in their Poor wasted Lives !!! ... … So yes Legalize it !!! But make sure that all the cops have the lick the stick test kits first !!! … Like in Australia, that Does !!! seem to be having Some, effect ? … in keeping the roads a Bit,, Safer at least !! Ps … Back in the Kingdom now !!! 20 People on a 300 seat aircraft from Singapore !!!!! … and apparently they are flying all over the world empty, as the Airlines want to keep their slots in all the major airports … What a Tragedy !!! Like this has just GOT TO END !!! … I am the only one that I know who was a former long stayer here who has made it back … that I know ??? … so well that ever they say on how Crazy I am … I CAN get things done right !!! … Like a full degree in Social behavior skills, 6 months of counseling, … and a full computer science degree needed to even have a hope of getting back here the way things are just now !!! … And well after hearing about the poor guy that uses a lot of exclamation Marks !!! when describing getting attacked after drinking for 2 days straight, … as he used a lot of them in his go fund me apparently so you say Roster ??? … So, Maybe time for me to stop !!! Mark mark !!! Home again !!!! HOME !!! … And feeling great again !!! for the first time in nearly 2 years !!! <Deleted> what a <deleted> of a virus this whole thing has been !!! ... and well, bad management, corruption, and dictatorial opportunities abounding now !!! … The stupidity just has to stop !!! ... We have to open normal things up (Keep Night clubs close !!! Like why not !!! they are just a disaster waiting to happen just now any way) … but open ALL people work places, and the schools. And everywhere !!! ... Let people return to their Families before they lose it totally !!! ..... Vaccinate every one !!! ... Vaccinate every one !!! !!! (We ALL just want to be able to live Normally again !!!) .... Send the Anti Vackseers to the south Pole, for their own safety ….... and well start really REALLY seriously looking after the Ole people or anyone else with preexisting conditions !!! … … And I do not think that they will be able to control Omicron, like I think that No one anywhere else, can just now either ??? It just comes on so fast, and then goes in 2 days I think … so young and healthy people do not even realize that they have got it !!! … But well if you are Old, or have Pre-existing problems !!! Well you better have been vaccinated is all that I can say, and possibly within 5 Months ??? …. As, as mild as it is ??? It Probably will just Hammer anyone who is old, or with Pre Existing weaknesses !!!... and Fast !!! … Get Vaccinated !!! Like just about everyone I know around here near Ayutthaya is !!! … (And they should have let “NoVax” Play !!! (Or “Go Home” Jokavich, as they started calling him in Australia) … Just fined him a lot ! and given it to homeless services, … and then filmed them washing all of the Eggs off his car, every Mourning, and evening after the matches !!! Har Har !!! Right !!! … Like how could we throw Eggs at him !!! … When he is back in good Old Serbia !!! ??? … Right !!! ??? (And another win for Scomo and the selfish Vote buyers and Loony’s !!!) … Phew! I think I know what you've been smoking! Probably every "Mourning"! 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mark mark Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 1 minute ago, sambum said: Phew! I think I know what you've been smoking! Probably every "Mourning"! No !!! .... Not for Years !!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sambum Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 Just now, Mark mark said: No !!! .... Not for Years !!!! Then your literary effort means that you have seriously "underestimated mated" the long term effects of good ol' Mary Jane! Or do upper or lower case letters mean not a jot to you? ???? 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
EVENKEEL Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 1 hour ago, Mark mark said: Edited and Re Posted - Well I do think that the good Old MJ should be legal also !!! But well, Like, Alcohol, should not be underestimated mated in it's chronic debilitating effect, if it IS abused also !!! and apparently the new Hybrid strains are much better, and more powerful that we ever used to be able to get when we were young !!! … (and had 5 K jammed dup our Chimney on occasions !!! ???) ... I have worked on Building sites where three quarters of the crew were pretty much totally stoned after Lunch !!! Like I was the Young, ... boss so did not eat with them, but I did know what was going on, I just turned a blind eye .... like when the Front End Loader driver was fully stoned, as he jiggled the Bucket, above the laborers heads, as he dropped the screenings in to the trench, ... to lay the sewer line on !!! ... Like talk about trust ??? ... or was it just plane stupidity ??? ... ... If I was the Forman again now I would never stand for it, but well back then I was young ... Still, eventually .... (Steptoe) ... In a rush to get off and down the Pub !!! …. I eventually slid the Van, with the whole crew in it, sideways down an embankment and got it jammed in between the Rock breaker and the batter !!! ... and then to add insult to Injury !!! … as the Rock breaker operator had hearing protectors on … and could not see us at the back, and he slew the machine around for the next rock, … and the heavy counter weight, back section of it crushed in the whole of the Left side of the van in and tipped it over on to two wheels !!! .... Lucky they were all stoned right !!! ... As I got out and ran Down the batter … Arms waving … ... Shouting “Stop Stop !!! You’re <Deleted> ing my car up” !!!! (Lost that job right there and then, needless to say !!! ... Dropped what was left of the van back at the yard, and went home. ) Not to mention when drill 2 dropped 2 rods down the hole, and lost them ! ? … and then the Drills Forman drove the rubber tire over a cliffs … after jumping off of course .. ... and Truck 35 going down the load out backwards ... and I saw the young drivers eyes after, .... looking like two red <deleted> Holes in the snow !!! ... They possibly breathalyzes him, and he would have passed naturally (All of them would have !!!) ... They did not have the Lick the stick back then !!! ... Yes have you ever been driving down the freeway at 90 and the driver starts to get twitchy, and pulled a little pipe out of the glove box, and pulls two cones as he continues on at 90 with one hand !!! ... Like Marijuana CAN ruin men’s Lives !!! AND HUMANS EXISTENCE !!! ... Just the same as Alcohol !!! … If it becomes the only thing in their Poor wasted Lives !!! ... … So yes Legalize it !!! But make sure that all the cops have the lick the stick test kits first !!! … Like in Australia, that Does !!! seem to be having Some, effect ? … in keeping the roads a Bit,, Safer at least !! Ps … Back in the Kingdom now !!! 20 People on a 300 seat aircraft from Singapore !!!!! … and apparently they are flying all over the world empty, as the Airlines want to keep their slots in all the major airports … What a Tragedy !!! Like this has just GOT TO END !!! … I am the only one that I know who was a former long stayer here who has made it back … that I know ??? … so well that ever they say on how Crazy I am … I CAN get things done right !!! … Like a full degree in Social behavior skills, 6 months of counseling, … and a full computer science degree needed to even have a hope of getting back here the way things are just now !!! … And well after hearing about the poor guy that uses a lot of exclamation Marks !!! when describing getting attacked after drinking for 2 days straight, … as he used a lot of them in his go fund me apparently so you say Roster ??? … So, Maybe time for me to stop !!! Mark mark !!! Home again !!!! HOME !!! … And feeling great again !!! for the first time in nearly 2 years !!! <Deleted> what a <deleted> of a virus this whole thing has been !!! ... and well, bad management, corruption, and dictatorial opportunities abounding now !!! … The stupidity just has to stop !!! ... We have to open normal things up (Keep Night clubs close !!! Like why not !!! they are just a disaster waiting to happen just now any way) … but open ALL people work places, and the schools. And everywhere !!! ... Let people return to their Families before they lose it totally !!! ..... Vaccinate every one !!! ... Vaccinate every one !!! !!! (We ALL just want to be able to live Normally again !!!) .... Send the Anti Vackseers to the south Pole, for their own safety ….... and well start really REALLY seriously looking after the Ole people or anyone else with preexisting conditions !!! … … And I do not think that they will be able to control Omicron, like I think that No one anywhere else, can just now either ??? It just comes on so fast, and then goes in 2 days I think … so young and healthy people do not even realize that they have got it !!! … But well if you are Old, or have Pre-existing problems !!! Well you better have been vaccinated is all that I can say, and possibly within 5 Months ??? …. As, as mild as it is ??? It Probably will just Hammer anyone who is old, or with Pre Existing weaknesses !!!... and Fast !!! … Get Vaccinated !!! Like just about everyone I know around here near Ayutthaya is !!! … (And they should have let “NoVax” Play !!! (Or “Go Home” Jokavich, as they started calling him in Australia) … Just fined him a lot ! and given it to homeless services, … and then filmed them washing all of the Eggs off his car, every Mourning, and evening after the matches !!! Har Har !!! Right !!! … Like how could we throw Eggs at him !!! … When he is back in good Old Serbia !!! ??? … Right !!! ??? (And another win for Scomo and the selfish Vote buyers and Loony’s !!!) … I can relate to working with stoners everyday cause I was one of them. Funny thing is we had no bad accidents. Back then we were working members of society, getting high didn't destroy us, just made the day a bit brighter. 1 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Stupooey Posted January 29, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted January 29, 2022 To me the major objection to pot must be its normal method of ingestion. Sucking smoke directly into one's lungs voluntarily must be the single most stupid activity known to man. I have taken my fair share of substances - from bhang lassis in Jaisalmer to mushroom soup on Gili Trawangan - but never resorted to wilfully inflicting damage on my lungs. I would also take issue with the idea of pot leading you to become "highly creative". Because of my unwillingness to smoke, I have often found myself 'the only turn unstoned' in a group, and have been astonished at the level of banality the conversation reached between fits of giggling. Mind expanding? More like mind contracting. 3 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Dr B Posted January 29, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted January 29, 2022 There are comments in Rooster's OP, and in a number of other trails, about driving in Thailand, so I thought I would have my say. I have been a civil engineer for over 50 years, and one of the things we do is design roads. I have also been a driver for over 50 years, in various countries, some driving on the the right but most on the left, and a wide range of vehicles. I am afraid that I believe that the problems in Thailand are insoluble. Most people who offer opinions on this topic refer to their home countries, where traffic rules have been in place since the horse and cart were in use, before the invention of the motor car. Thailand, on the other hand, has a very developed set of roads, from minor dirt roads in the provinces through a whole range and up to grade separated motorways and expressways, extending over the length and breadth of the kingdom. They also have a whole range of intersections, many with traffic lights, but the way in which they are designed to operate varies considerably. Then we have a population of over 70 million, and goodness knows how many of those operate a vehicle. I use those words rather than drive, because there is a huge difference, not recognised or understood by the majority of Thais, between being able to operate the controls of a vehicle and being able to drive. This is probably best demonstrated by reference to Australia, where obtaining an open licence involves the following steps: 1 Learn the written rules, and take a written test. 2 Obtain a Learner licence and log 100 hours of supervised driving. 3 Take a practical test. 4 Drive for one year on red provisional plates, with significant restrictions. 5 Drive for a further two years on green provisional plates, with less restrictions. Here we see children as young as 10 yrs old riding motorcycles, able to work the controls but with no idea of how to drive/ride. When they eventually graduate to a four wheeled vehicle they still don't know how to drive. It is worth noting that the English translation of the Thai Land Tafiic Act, refrred to on another thread recently, covers 19 pages. The equivalent in Queensland is Keys to driving in Queensland, which runs to 187 pages, and the UK Highway Code runs to over 300 pages. Here in Krabi I see virtually no driving schools, so where are drivers supposed to learn to drive? Nobody has ever been taught, so you see the same mistakes being followed every day, like the inability to turn a corner because noone showed them how to feed the steering wheel through their hands. This then leads to the inability to turn a tight circle, so the need to block an extra lane when making a U-turn so that they can get around. Many seem unable to reverse into a car parking space, and prefer to reverse out into the larger space but with the danger of moving traffic. Many seem unaware of traffic lanes, and will straddle the lines or wander from one to another. I have stopped blaming them as why should they know any better. Again here in a rural area like Krabi, we have numerous motorcycles, and some four wheeled vehicles, proceeding along the wrong side of the road because it is more convenient. We have many vehicles, especially motorcycles, without any lights at night. We have the motorcycles with "sidecars" generally proceeding slower than other vehicles, but then lurching out across traffic lanes without any thought for other users if their path is blocked by a parked car. All examples of a general inability to drive becuase of a lack of awareness of other traffic. However, the simple fact is that to enact and enforce a suitable traffic system, disregarding for now the policing element, would mean removing from the majority of the population the right to drive, and requiring them to go through a training and testing programme. This would apply to all motorists, and other drivers, and to all motorcyclists, many of whom would not qualify for licences on grounds of age alone. This would then prevent many of them from getting to school. The disruption to the whole of Thai society, from top to bottom, would be so severe that no Government could contemplate it, so it will never happen. The whole lethal system, with its appalling waste of human life, is so deeply entrenched that there is no way that it can be corrected. That is my opinion. 3 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mark mark Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 31 minutes ago, sambum said: Then your literary effort means that you have seriously "underestimated mated" the long term effects of good ol' Mary Jane! Or do upper or lower case letters mean not a jot to you? ???? .... I have a technical Education (And it has done me well) .... and not (A Less useful ?) one in Arts. ... So well, the Honest Answer ... Well, yes ... No ! ... Not a Jot. ... ???? ... Yes, ... MJ has long term effects though !!! I am sure !!! ... and so does Valium, Alcohol, Meths E.T.C. .... .... I have a technical Education (And it has done me well) .... and not (A Less useful ?) one in Arts. ... So well, the Honest Answer ... Well, yes ... Not a Jot. ... ... yes, ... MJ has long term effects though !!! I am sure !!! ... and so does Valium, Alcohol, Meths E.T.C. .... And 2 years on Malaprim, or Doxi Cyclin, to keep yourself alive (From cerebral Malaria) while working in Africa .... not to mention the chemicals, a LOT of practical jobs, used to have us breathing, and well the continual engine oil rock cover breather and exhaust fumes from the ships engines ... etce ! ?? .... And then there is Bloody Insurance and Visas !!! ... All un seen and Un considered problems .... .... As well as being stuck in a repressive Society .. or just a <deleted>ty place .... ... But well, just back now, ... and am not interesting in starting something, as it was not in the Plan. ... ... Have a nice day. and over and out from me. ... Take care of yourself also .... and as my Good uncle a chief Engineer from a BHP ship, (Died early of Emphysema, - as many of the Old engineers did ... ) said to me "Keep a Good Watch" ! .... And could have probably meant the Air, ... as well as the Shift he lead, ... ... and on the other Sailors as well !!! right !!! ???? ... Have a nice day. ... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mark mark Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 46 minutes ago, EVENKEEL said: I can relate to working with stoners everyday cause I was one of them. Funny thing is we had no bad accidents. Back then we were working members of society, getting high didn't destroy us, just made the day a bit brighter. .... Yes I must say that all of my Stories, ... I just Find Humorous !!! and Yes !!! Thanks ... Mostly Kind, and pretty Incent people stoners, and Ok to be around also .... Alcohol and Alcoholics !!! On the other Hand !!! ... and I can say that from several Years of well, experience and pretty bad failure, ... after I was forced in to retirement when I was about 59. ... (Still you are NOT going to get any where unless you lean from your mistakes ! ? Right ???) .... Yes thanks for that !!! Yes it was Funny .. and amazingly the Killer accidents ??? I thought seemed to be associated with Alcohol !!! ... And Not Grass. .... Thanks. (You were not working for Lorenzin Construction were you ??? Har Har ???) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mark mark Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 Maybe I will just cut the Chase, and say "Yes quite Obviously it should be legalized" and across the Board for adults ! ... But well, let’s get Plod, … The Cops, … fully equipped with the usual Lick the Stick road, and other potential in Conflict, test kits first … So we do not just get another whole load of, So called Un-explained silly but tragic ??? Road accidents, / Incidents … when they were Stoned … and Not drunk, ... So will still pass the Breathalyzer. ... ... Like I know a LOT of Stoners ? … Well One ... but only one ... well two ? .... ...( But well, one is enough !!!) …. but he IS a very considerate person ... in the afternoon if he smokes, … then he does not drive, like he does not go out until the next day !!! ... Like phone and ask to meet him, and he just says NO, I cannot go out now, …until tomorrow !!! … Like he is still marginal on the lick the stock test even then, like they CAN see it !!! ... But not much apparently, still the next day …... So the cops let him off, .. (So far. any way ….) … as he IS totally OK rationally, AND obviously very socially Responsible person and fully capable driver. … So Having reasonable Cops, but with the Ability to test Drivers, for Marijuana, IS a pretty good Idea I think !!! Just like Alcohol !!! .. ... And then well ... Then Let’s just let it rip !!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sambum Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 1 hour ago, Mark mark said: .... I have a technical Education (And it has done me well) .... and not (A Less useful ?) one in Arts. ... So well, the Honest Answer ... Well, yes ... No ! ... Not a Jot. ... ???? ... Yes, ... MJ has long term effects though !!! I am sure !!! ... and so does Valium, Alcohol, Meths E.T.C. .... .... I have a technical Education (And it has done me well) .... and not (A Less useful ?) one in Arts. ... So well, the Honest Answer ... Well, yes ... Not a Jot. ... ... yes, ... MJ has long term effects though !!! I am sure !!! ... and so does Valium, Alcohol, Meths E.T.C. .... And 2 years on Malaprim, or Doxi Cyclin, to keep yourself alive (From cerebral Malaria) while working in Africa .... not to mention the chemicals, a LOT of practical jobs, used to have us breathing, and well the continual engine oil rock cover breather and exhaust fumes from the ships engines ... etce ! ?? .... And then there is Bloody Insurance and Visas !!! ... All un seen and Un considered problems .... .... As well as being stuck in a repressive Society .. or just a <deleted>ty place .... ... But well, just back now, ... and am not interesting in starting something, as it was not in the Plan. ... ... Have a nice day. and over and out from me. ... Take care of yourself also .... and as my Good uncle a chief Engineer from a BHP ship, (Died early of Emphysema, - as many of the Old engineers did ... ) said to me "Keep a Good Watch" ! .... And could have probably meant the Air, ... as well as the Shift he lead, ... ... and on the other Sailors as well !!! right !!! ???? ... Have a nice day. ... ???? He he! And U2! I wish I could say you have brightened my horizons, but with all the smoke I am afraid you have clouded them! 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Hammer2021 Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 Another brilliant read. Thanks so much. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cncltd1973 Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 4 hours ago, Thunglom said: Because they don't understand road safety and just rely on cliche'd headlines to attract other people who don't understand. If they want to help, they should be passing information on that helps people to understand the issues facing Thailand in road safety. the media in Thailand doesn't understand its power. reporters don't ask questions, don't hold politicians accountable, they just write down what the idiot says, print it and collect the paycheck Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KhunLA Posted January 29, 2022 Share Posted January 29, 2022 18 minutes ago, cncltd1973 said: the media in Thailand doesn't understand its power. reporters don't ask questions, don't hold politicians accountable, they just write down what the idiot says, print it and collect the paycheck Towing the line is how you keep your license to operate...worldwide Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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