N.B. AS THIS ISSUE HAS NO INDEX PAGE, NAVIGATE FROM "LOCAL NEWS" TO THE OTHER SECTIONS.....LOCAL NEWS: Visa numbers ‘encouraging?: government; Only 182 buildings to go in Strand Rd upgrade: YCDC; Megaprojects not the way forward for developing Asia; Comic book artist Maung Nyein Chan passes away; Japan embassy funds school projects in Yangon Division; Leading parties eye poll alliance; No more betel shops near schools; Big names help Democratic Party gain support; Ministry warns of rat-related health risks; Democratic Force recruits candidates in 50 towns; Prominent writers launch journal; Countries to draft tiger rescue plan; Oil crop project expanded; Legend of lost bell lures Australian filmmaker; The Dhammazedi Bell: an inauspicious tale; Department of Meteorology to promote disaster awareness in local media; Orchid expert to judge at Singapore show; ‘Openings? for independents in 2010; Pauk residents adopt tiny novice as ‘favourite son?; Passport applications on rise at Ranong... BUSINESS & PROPERTY: Rice exports plummet on strong currency B&P exports flat in June; Vendor grapples with slippery subject; Gold hits record highs throughout June; Construction material prices down in July; Rental prices along main road on the rise, say agents; July sales boom as tax deadline nears again...TIMEOUT: Old classics keep rockin?; Performance artist to visit Germany for workshop; At universities? contest, a new lesson in beauty; Naw Nor to release album...CLASSIFIEDS