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Fake Editorial Board Pleased With Saigon’s Progress (No Joke!)

In an effort to balance our relentless ribbing of the city’s quirks, we, the editorial board of The Vietnam Beat, have come to the revelatory conclusion that perhaps we ought to pause for a moment and acknowledge the undeniable successes of our beloved city. Yes, we’ve poked fun at the bureaucratic ballet that is our traffic enforcement, but let us not forget that Saigon is also strutting down the runway of progress, and it’s time we put down the snark and give credit where credit is due.

In recent weeks, Tuoi Tre News has been providing diligent reporting on the challenges stemming from the city’s new traffic fines. The publication has taken an admirable stance in highlighting the disproportionate impact these fines have had on the community, particularly on taxi drivers who have felt the brunt of the enforcement measures. With many drivers boycotting due to the financial strain imposed by these fines, Tuoi Tre News has played a critical role in bringing these issues to light, ensuring that the voices of those impacted are heard. Their commitment to journalistic integrity serves as a vital check on the city’s administration, reminding us all that transparency is essential for a thriving urban environment.

Moreover, it’s important to acknowledge the city’s response to these pressing concerns. In an effort to alleviate congestion and improve the flow of traffic, local officials have installed 80 new right turn signals at key intersections. This proactive measure shows a willingness to adapt and respond to the challenges presented by the recent changes in traffic regulations. By creating a more efficient traffic system, the city is taking steps toward a more navigable Saigon, demonstrating that they are listening to the community and striving to improve the urban landscape.

Additionally, let us raise our glasses (of iced … Read more

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100 Benefits of Sitting on One’s Ass

In a world that often glorifies constant activity and productivity, the simple act of sitting on one’s ass can be overlooked. However, this seemingly mundane position can offer a myriad of benefits, both physical and mental. Here’s a look at 100 benefits of taking a seat and embracing a more relaxed approach to life.

1-10: Physical Comfort

  1. Resting Muscles: Sitting allows muscles to relax, reducing fatigue.
  2. Joint Relief: It alleviates pressure on joints, especially in the knees and hips.
  3. Spinal Alignment: Proper sitting can promote spinal health when using ergonomic chairs.
  4. Reduced Swelling: Elevating legs while sitting can decrease swelling.
  5. Lower Back Support: Good chairs provide lumbar support, helping to prevent back pain.
  6. Breathing Space: Sitting comfortably allows for deeper, more relaxed breathing.
  7. Circulation Improvement: Proper sitting can enhance blood flow.
  8. Digestive Aid: Sitting can aid digestion, especially after meals.
  9. Reduced Injury Risk: Sitting lowers the risk of falls and injuries related to standing.
  10. Comfortable Temperature: Sitting can help regulate body temperature, especially in cold environments.

11-20: Mental Health Benefits

  1. Stress Relief: A comfortable seat can help reduce stress after a long day.
  2. Mindfulness: Sitting can foster mindfulness and relaxation.
  3. Enhanced Focus: A stable seated position can improve concentration.
  4. Creative Thinking: A relaxed state can lead to bursts of creativity.
  5. Meditation Opportunities: Sitting is ideal for meditation practices.
  6. Reduced Anxiety: Comfort can lower anxiety levels.
  7. Time for Reflection: Sitting provides an opportunity for introspection.
  8. Quality Rest: Sitting can lead to a quick power nap or rest.
  9. Social Connection: Sitting with others fosters social interaction.
  10. Entertainment: A comfortable seat is perfect for enjoying movies, books, or games.

21-30: Productivity and Creativity

  1. Work Flexibility: Many jobs require sitting, enabling focused work.
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New Traffic Fines: Urban Poor Tax Chaos

In a bold move to enrich government officials at the expense of the public, Vietnam has announced a new decree set to take effect on January 1, 2025, that will introduce exorbitantly higher fines for traffic violations. This latest initiative is being celebrated as a leap towards a “civilized lifestyle,” but many citizens are starting to suspect it’s more about filling the coffers.

Forget about running red lights or riding on the sidewalk; the real crime here is not turning in your fellow motorists. As the government dangles these new fines—some reaching a staggering VND50 million ($1,965)—over the heads of drivers like a piñata filled with cash for officials, we can expect a new era of street confrontations. Imagine the delightful chaos as drivers turn vigilante, snitching on each other for minor infractions. Traffic stops will transform into full-blown brawls, as neighbors turn against neighbors in a frenzy of finger-pointing and vehicular outrage.

The decree also prohibits turning on red lights, which means that traffic jams will become a permanent fixture in the urban landscape. Expect to spend your entire lunch hour idling at the same intersection, dreaming of the days when a simple right turn wouldn’t require a degree in patience. Increased wait times will not only lead to road rage but also to a new form of urban meditation—perhaps we’ll all learn the art of zen while stuck in gridlock.

As the fines skyrocket, so too will the financial anxiety of countless commuters. Imagine a world where yielding to pedestrians costs you an entire month’s salary. Suddenly, the decision to stop for a pedestrian at a zebra crossing becomes a high-stakes gamble, and many will simply roll the dice. After all, with fines 27-30 times higher than before, you might as well take your chances.

Supporters of this … Read more

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Dengue Fever Doesn’t Turn You Gay

Ministry of Health Announces Dengue Fever Does Not Alter Sexual Orientation

Leading scientists have confirmed that contracting dengue fever does not, in fact, make one gay as a weatherman. The Ministry of Health’s announcement comes after months of rampant speculation of the Vietnamese youth who have been embracing fashion, dance, Taylor Swift, and having hairless, hot bods.

Those infected with dengue fever were reporting a sudden change in their sexual preferences, but doctors think in facing mortality one is more likely to gay it up if in a conservative society.”When facing death, one considers putting on their mom’s dress and hitting a drag show, and I think that’s natural, said Nguyen Pham, who recently was sucked my a mosquito. (Mosquito is his church friend’s drag name.)

Dr. Linh Thanh, the lead researcher at the Ministry of Health, stated, “We’ve conducted extensive research and can conclusively say that the dengue virus, transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, has absolutely no impact on an individual’s sexual orientation.”

Public health officials have emphasized the importance of focusing on preventive measures such as eliminating standing water and using insect repellent. “Let’s put our energy into fighting the real enemy here: mosquitoes, not our own hot man-lusting sexual identities,” commented Dr. Thinh.

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Google Maps Gets Route Correct

Maps Guides Phuc My on the Perfect Grab Car Journey

Hanoi, Vietnam—Google Maps has finally pinpointed the optimal route for Phuc My’s Grab Car ride through the bustling streets of Vietnam’s capital. Eyewitness reports confirm that for the first time ever, Google’s navigation app led My on the most efficient path imaginable, devoid of detours, stray dogs, and improvisational pop-up beverage stands.

At precisely 3:15 PM on a Tuesday, Phuc My tapped his phone screen and summoned a Grab Car, optimism glimmering in his eyes. As fate would have it, the ride would not only be a mundane affair; it would go down in history as a GPS triumph. “I thought it was a joke,” Phuc recounted, still in shock. “I mean, we didn’t stop for coconut water, and there were no incidents involving a wayward old lady selling sausages or a leisurely family of ducks waddling across the road!”

The journey, charted by Google Maps, took Phuc straight from his office in Cau Giay to Hoan Kiem Lake—a route that ordinarily resembles a labyrinth constructed by a toddler on a caffeine high. Instead of enduring the usual chaotic zigzags of motorbikes, vendor stalls, and cinematic near-scrapes with oblivious pedestrians, Phuc found himself cruising down a straight, uninterrupted path—made all the more surreal by the scenic views of Hanoi’s shimmering skyline.

“Our algorithm finally reflects the real world,” said a Google spokesperson, attempting to downplay the groundbreaking achievement. “We ran thousands of simulations with untested mapping data from the ‘Black Mirror’ universe and concluded it was indeed possible to navigate efficiently when the sun reaches its zenith and all stray animals have taken their obligatory afternoon naps.”

The Grab driver, Dong “No Detours” Nguyen, revealed his own surprise at the efficiency. “I’ve been driving for years, and I always assumed … Read more

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Banh Mi Bloodbath

Day-Old Bread Used For Series of Stabbings

Saigon, Vietnam — The peaceful streets of Saigon have become the backdrop for a series of notorious “banh mi stabbings,” in disputes over money.

The alarming trend reportedly began at a family reunion last weekend when the Nguyens were divided over a modest inheritance that included a peculiar stash of day-old banh mi. Ms. Nguyen, who only partially uttered this while clutching a loaf of bread. “It was supposed to be a peaceful gathering.”

While economics experts attribute the rise in tensions to the current inflation rate, local chefs argue it’s all about the bread. “Stale banh mi breeds resentment,” states renowned chef M. Phan, who recently opened a trendy café called Co Ba Ma, specializing in fresh bread.

By the end of the last incident, the “Banh Mi Massacre,” the Nguyen family is now down two members with sliced and diced relationships – and a few emergency room visits. “I couldn’t believe it,” said neighbor Minh Tran. “One minute, they were arguing about who borrowed money from whom, and the next, there we stabbing each other with rock hard baguettes.”

As news spreads, local residents are rushing to their kitchen cupboards to stock up on fresh loaves instead of negotiating marital property agreements. “I think I’ll just keep my bread in the sun from now on,” says Tran. “Day-old? No thank you! I am the breadwinner and sole provider in the family.”

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Vietnam Proposes 10% Tax On Soda

Tuoi Tre News

The rate of overweight and obesity among Vietnamese children aged 5-19 surged to 19% in 2020, up from 8.5% a decade earlier. In response, the draft Law on Excise Tax proposes a 10% tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) to combat this issue.

This topic was discussed during a recent workshop in Hanoi organized by UNICEF Vietnam and the National Assembly Committee for Culture and Education. Experts highlighted that Vietnam’s obesity rate surpasses those of neighboring countries, with projections indicating that nearly two million children could be classified as overweight or obese by 2030 if SSB consumption continues unchecked.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Truong Tuyet Mai from the National Institute of Nutrition cautioned against the health risks associated with prolonged SSB consumption, which can lead to obesity and other serious conditions. Studies indicate that frequent SSB consumption in children raises body mass index (BMI) significantly and increases the risk of obesity by age five.

Dr. Mai recommended stringent limits on sugar intake for children: none for those under two years old and for ages 2-18, no more than 25 grams of sugar or 235ml of SSBs weekly. Despite soft drink consumption in Vietnam rising drastically from 1.59 billion liters in 2009 to 6.67 billion liters in 2023, experts stressed the necessity of an excise tax to reduce both obesity rates and related healthcare costs.

Participants at the workshop largely supported the tax, though some raised questions about the threshold for sugar content included in the tax. Dr. Nguyen Huy Quang noted that while the excise tax proposal was previously stalled due to insufficient evidence, the current data warrants immediate action to protect public health. Currently, 104 countries worldwide impose such taxes on SSBs, including six in ASEAN.