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INTERNATIONAL Obama, Bush to Attend New York’s 9/11 Memorial Ceremony
Swiss National Day SWITZERLAND - August 1
Lammas Day SCOTLAND - August 1
The Swiss National Day (German: Schweizer Bundesfeier; French: Fête nationale Suisse; Italian: Festa nazionale svizzera; Romansh: Fiasta naziunala Svizra) is set on 1 August. It has been an official national holiday since 1994, following a public vote on 26 September 1993 although the day had been suggested for the celebration of the foundation of the Swiss Confederacy as early as 1889.
Independence Day
either gets independence from a foreign ruling organization or from a domestic ruler. Independence Day has its own values and it is one of the greatest days for every country. Thus, it is celebrated with great joy as well as respect.
History
In some English-speaking countries in the Northern Hemisphere, August 1 is Lammas Day(loafmass day), the festival of the wheat harvest, and is the first harvest festival of the year. On this day it was customary to bring to church a loaf made from the new crop. In many parts ofEngland, tenants were bound to present freshly harvested wheat to their landlords on or before the first day of August. In the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, where it is referred to regularly, it is called "the feast of first fruits". The blessing of new fruits was performed annually in both the Easternand Western Churches on the first or the sixth of August (the latter being the feast of the Transfiguration of Christ). The Sacramentary of Pope Gregory I (died 604) specifies the sixth. In mediæval times the feast was known as the "Gule of August", but the meaning of "gule" is unclear. Ronald Hutton suggests that it may be an Anglicisation of Gŵyl Awst, the Welsh name for August 1 meaning "feast of August", but this is perhaps an overly-complicated extraction. Most etymological dictionaries give it an origin similar to gullet; from O.Fr. goulet, dim. of goule "throat, neck," from L. gula "throat,". One can see why Hutton feels differently as this Welsh derivation would point to a pre-Christian origin for Lammas among the Anglo-Saxons and a link to the Gaelic festival of Lughnasadh. There are several historical references to it being known as Lambess eve, such as 'Publications of the Scottish Historical Society' 1964 and this alternative name is the origin of the Lambess surname, just as Hallowmass and Christmas were also adopted as familial titles.
Early lifeTown-specific celebrations
The day of independence is typically celebrated at a local, municipality level though certain events draw nation-wide attention. Since the mid-nineteenth century, the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen has illuminated its 25 meter high waterfalls for special events. Beginning in 1920, the waterfall has been regularly lit for the national holiday and since 1966 is now lit only for this holiday. At the historic location of Rütli Meadowabove Lake Lucerne, a representational celebration is staged in the location where the legendary pledge of alliance, the Rütlischwur is said to have taken place.
Christian
Swiss National Day celebrations around the world
The largest Swiss National Day event in the USA is organized and held annually by the Swiss Benevolent Society of New York. Usually held in Manhattan, New York City, NY, the event draws thousands of Swiss, Swiss-Americans and Friends of Switzerland from around New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Pennsylvania. This tradition goes back several decades, and was originally held at their former hospice in Mount Kisco, New York during the 1970's.
Fireworks and feasting
1. August weggen", bread baked to celebrate Swiss National Day
For most people, August 1st means bonfires and fireworks and barbecues in the garden or brunch on the farm. Long before the government decided in 1891 to declare the day Switzerland's national day, people had celebrated summer by lighting bonfires. Indeed, the custom of lighting a fire on June 24th, St John's Day, is known all over Europe. But for the Swiss, bonfires had an extra significance. For centuries they had built beacons on mountain tops which they lit when danger approached. One legend told of both Lake Geneva and Lake Biel relates how hordes of invading barbarians intent on conquering the ancient Swiss tribes turned back when they saw the lights reflected in the lake waters, thinking they had come to the edge of the earth and were about to ride off into the sky. Whether in remembrance of this event, or just because it is fun, every Swiss commune now lights its own bonfire and sets off fireworks, and children parade through the streets with paper lanterns - often decorated with the Swiss cross or the symbols of the cantons - and people light candles in their windows. And since no celebration is complete without a feast, many people mark this festival of fire by cooking sausages over a barbecue and enjoying them with friends. Fireworks on August 1st But in recent years an alternative feast has been gaining in popularity: brunch on the farm. The idea was launched in 1993, as an initiative by the Swiss Farmers' Association. Visitors are served fresh farm produce and get to see something of farmers' lives. In 2005 about 430 farms took part, serving brunch to about 200,000 people.
The feast of St. Peter in Chains, known as Lammas Day in English speaking countries, is a feast commemorating St Peter's miraculous deliverance from prison. The name is from loaf-mass, bread-feast; so called because on this day offerings were originally made of the first-fruits of harvest, the Catholic church baptizing the pagan festival in the tradition of the Hebrew First Fruits.
Pre-Industrial
In The Every-Day Book by William Hone (published: 1838), he speaks of a festival common among Scottish farmers near Edinburgh that happens on August 1, or "Lammas Day." He says that they "build towers...leaving a hole for a flag-pole in the center so that they may raise their colors." When the flags over the many peat-constructed towers were raised, farmers would go to others' towers and attempt to "level them to the ground." A successful attempt would bring great praise. However, people were allowed to defend their towers, and so everyone was provided with a "tootinghorn" to alert nearby country folk of the impending attack and the battle would turn into a "brawl." According to Hone, more than four people had died at this festival and many more were injured. At the day's end, races were held, with prizes given to the townspeople.
Neo-Paganism
Lammas is a Neo-Pagan holiday, often called Lughnasadh, celebrating the first harvest and the reaping of grain. It is a cross-quarter holiday halfway between the Summer Solstice (Litha) and the Autumnal Equinox (Mabon). In the northern hemisphere, Lammas takes place around August 1 with the Sun near the midpoint of Leo in the tropical zodiac, while in the southern hemisphere Lammas is celebrated around February 1 with the Sun near the midpoint of Aquarius. On the Wheel of the Year, it is opposite Imbolc, which is celebrated on February 2 in the northern hemisphere, and late July / early August in the southern hemisphere.
Other uses
Lammas leaves or Lammas growth refers to a second crop of leaves produced in high summer by some species of trees in temperate countries to replace those lost to insect damage. They often differ slightly in shape, texture and/or hairiness from the earlier leaves.
Niger got independence from France on August 3, 1960. Niger was under France’s control for a long span of time. French does tried a lot to spread their territory throughout the parts, but they failed in capturing Agadez, which is the southern part of the country. Again, they had to face a strong opfrom position Taurag. After that, the French kept on their moving and strategies capital in Niger. They even proclaimed Niger to be a military state. However in 1960, the country got complete independence from the French control. Niger is one of the most populated countries of the Continent Africa. Thus, it has its own significance. Not only from the fields of population, but it is good on the basis of economy also. It is one of the fastest growing nations in the world. The importance of Independence Day is huge in Niger. The proof of this is that along with the Independence Day, they also celebrate Arbor’s Day. On this day, they plant a lot of trees in order to fight the growing desertification. Along with that it also contributes in fighting the growing global warming, and green house effect all over the globe.
Coat of Arms
TRADITIONS AND ACTIVITIES
The celebrations of Independence Day in Niger are full of enjoyment and fun for every citizen. This day has wide significance in Niger. One of the biggest reasons being that it is one of those festivals (for the people of Niger, it is like Festival), which helps in binding up people together. This is the reason that this day is celebrated with so much excitement. The country Niger is widely diversified on the basis of languages and ethnicity. However, this occasion brings all of them together and helps them in enjoying their freedom together. The freedom is not earned very easily; rather it is earned with a lot of hardships and fights. Many have lost their life in order to achieve the freedom. Thus, the Nigerian Independence day celebration is not complete without remembering those freedom fighters, who sacrificed their life in order to get their countrymen free. Hence, they are remembered every year on this auspicious occasion. Niger freedom fighters are not only the ones, who greatly contributed in the freedom struggle, but are also the ones, who inspired the people to go for the freedom struggle and get their country free from the French. Without their inspiration, Niger would have still been a slave country to France. The people of Niger are well aware of these facts and hence they never fail in remembering these great freedom fighters and leaders.
Towers. The attack occurred eight months after Bush took office. Bush and Obama will join governors Andrew Cuomo of New York and Chris Christie of New Jersey; George Pataki, who was New York’s governor in 2001; former Mayor Rudolph Giuliani; and Bloomberg. The ceremony will include poetry and quotations, and a reading of the names of all who died that day after al Qaeda terrorists hijacked jets that also crashed into the Pentagon in Washington and in Pennsylvania. “Family members only will be al-
lowed to walk onto the plaza, look at their loved ones’ names, look down into the voids,” Bloomberg said during his weekly appearance on WOR radio. “The first day it’s reserved for those family members who lost somebody on 9/11.” Visitors must apply for reservations to see the site after Sept. 11, to avoid crowding, Bloomberg said. Tickets may be obtained through the city’s Website, www.nyc.gov. The mayor is 9/11 National Memorial chairman, and founder and majority owner of Bloomberg News parent Bloomberg LP.
Yemen Kills 14 Tribesmen by Mistake
NIGER-August 3
Niger celebrates its Independence Day on August 3rd every year. Independence Day is that day when a country
History
The date is inspired by the date of the Federal Charter of 1291, placed in "early August" (primo incipiente mense Augusto). The document is one of several dozen pacts attested for the territory of Switzerland in the period of the mid 13th to mid 14th century. The foundation of the Old Swiss Confederacy had been mostly associated with the Bund of Brunnen of 1315, or with the Rütlischwur, dated to 1307 by Aegidius Tschudi. The Federal Charter of 1291 was first attached a greater importance in a report by the Federal Department of Home Affairs of 21 November of 1889, suggesting a celebration in Bern in 1891 that would combine the city's 700th anniversary with the Confederacy's 600th anniversary. The date of the Federal Charter came to replace the formerly more prominent, traditional date of the Rütlischwur of 8 November 1307 in popular consciousness in the 20th century, specifically after the 650th anniversary celebrations of 1941. 1 August was declared an official national holiday in 1685 and first celebrated on an annual basis in 1899. It is today celebrated each year on 1 August with town-wide paper lantern parades, bonfires, hanging strings of Swiss flags and fireworks.
(Google News) President Barack Obama and former President George W. Bush will attend New York City’s ceremony observing the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center, Mayor Michael Bloomberg said. Obama’s and Bush’s presence marks the first time a U.S. president has participated in the annual event, which this year will coincide with the opening of a memorial plaza featuring reflecting pools, meant to be symbolic voids, on the footprints of the destroyed Twin
(Google News July 30, 2011) SANA, Yemen — Government airstrikes in southern Yemen against Islamist militants accidentally killed 14 pro-government tribesmen, a Yemeni security official said Saturday. The botched airstrikes reflect the difficulty the imperiled government has had battling for survival on multiple fronts since a popular uprising against the longtime president, Ali Abdullah Saleh, began six months ago. Armed tribesmen are fighting government forces in a number of areas around the country, and Islamist militants, some allied with Al Qaeda, have overrun entire towns in the restive south. The airstrikes hit just east of the town of Zinjibar, near the southern coast, which Islamist militants overran in May. Since then, government forces and tribesmen have battled to push them out, causing regular casualties on both sides. The security official, Abdullah al-
Jadana, said Saturday that men from the Fadl tribe had advanced on Zinjibar, killing two militants and occupying a government communications building before at least three airstrikes hit the area late Friday, he said. Fourteen tribesmen were killed in the strike. A military official confirmed the airstrikes and said preliminary information indicated a mistake had been made. He spoke on condition of anonymity in line with military rules. Tribal loyalties are paramount in Yemen’s provinces, where the central government exerts little control, and an errant airstrike could sap the local support crucial to government forces. Just north of the capital, Sana, where antigovernment tribes have been battling Yemen’s army, two days of clashes left 17 tribesmen dead, prompting a powerful tribe to threaten attacks against Sana’s international airport.
The Arhab tribe, which has long complained of government neglect, says the elite Republican Guard is shelling and bombing its villages, killing civilians. The tribe has previously attacked army bases and tried to prevent troops from entering Sana, where it feared they would attack protesters. A tribal leader, Sheik Hamid Assem, said Saturday that dozens of soldiers had also been killed. The Defense Ministry acknowledged in a statement that soldiers had died, but did not provide a number. In a statement issued late Friday, the Arhab tribe, “The sons of the Arhab tribe will strike the Sana International Airport with all the available means of war in response to the attacks on them by air and the shelling of their villages and homes.”
tacks led to protests across Quetta; resulting in arson. Pained by the continuing sectarian violence in different parts of the country, civil society drew a connection between this spurt and the recent release of LeJ chief Malik Ishaq. An accused in the attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore, Ishaq's family was apparently being provided financial assistance by the Punjab Government. PTI reports: After the attack, hundreds of Shia Muslims gathered on Barori Road in protest, chanting slogans against the government and the police for their failure to check sectarian killings. The angry protesters also blocked the main road. They torched vehicles and shops outside a hospital, where several bodies of the slain persons were taken along and the injured persons admitted. Additional police force was deployed in the city to check any reaction, a senior police officer said, adding the situation was now under control.
EU to apply more Sanctions on Syria (Google News ) European Union governments agreed in principle on Thursday to extend sanctions against the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, EU diplomats said. "There is a principal agreement to extend the list of sanctioned persons by five," an EU diplomat said, declining to give details of the individuals targeted. The EU wants to increase pressure on Syria`s regime to end a crackdown against demonstrators. It has
already imposed restrictive measures against him and at least two dozen officials, and has targeted military-linked companies in Syria. Under Thursday's agreement, five more people will be targeted with restrictions such as asset freezes and a travel ban. Once formally approved by EU envoys, the sanctions will come into effect early next week. EU also keep pushing for a UN resolution at UN Security Council regarding Syria, as Syrian regime are still forcing more crackdown at peo-
ple protests. For its part, Russia believes that a solution to the crisis in Syria should be find avoiding foreign interference, Russia`s Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov told Russia Today. He added that Moscow opposes a UNSC resolution on Surya since similar measures against Libya did no good. Mr. Bogdanov urged Damascus to focus more on political and economic reforms.
Ukraine mourns 32 dead in mine accidents (Google News) Ukraine — Rescuer workers in Ukraine recovered more bodies Saturday as the death toll from two separate mining accidents in the country's notoriously perilous coal pits rose to 32. Fears were rising meanwhile for five miners still missing. President Viktor Yanukovych announced a day of mourning for Sunday, while Prime Minister Mykola Azarov is to attend a funeral service for victims the same day and meet their relatives. Twenty-four miners died after an explosion early Friday at the Sukhodolskaya-Vostochnaya coal mine in the eastern Lugansk region, the emergency ministry said, revising an earlier toll of 20. Two people are still missing. The toll from a separate accident hours later was also revised, from seven to eight, with three still missing, after a mine headframe collapsed at the Bazhanova pit in the town of Makiyivka in the neighbouring Donetsk region. The twin disasters were the country's worst mining accidents since more than 100 miners died in a mine explosion in 2007. The blast hit the SukhodolskayaVostochnaya mine at around 2:00 am on Friday, in an air passage at
a depth of more than 900 metres (2,950 feet), where 28 miners were working at the time, the emergency ministry said. "The provisional explanation is a methane explosion," the regional administration said Saturday. Rescuers have begun clearing gas from an emergency access tunnel into the mine, in order to go down in search of the missing miners, a spokeswoman for the Lugansk regional administration told AFP. But Albina Kosheleva said there was little hope of finding more miners alive. "I can't say anything about this. It is unlikely," she said. Two miners pulled from the debris and hospitalised in the city's burns unit remained in "an extremely serious condition, on the verge of life and death," Kosheleva added. A third survivor died in hospital on Friday. Two miners were buried on Saturday and another 15 are due to be buried on Sunday, said Kosheleva. The prime minister would also hold an official meeting with relatives, she said. In the other, separate, accident in a state-owned mine in the Donetsk region, a 65-metre-high tower containing the headgear for raising and
(Google News) FORT IRWIN, Calif.— More than two dozen assault rifles have been stolen from a Southern California military base, and investigators sought the public's help as they looked to arrest suspects and recover the weapons, federal officials said Friday. Twenty-six AK-74 assault rifles and one Dragunov sniper rifle were stolen from a supply warehouse at Fort Irwin in San Bernardino County on July 15, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives says in a statement. Some arrests have been made and one rifle has been recovered, but the agency is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information lead-
ing to further arrests, the statement said. "Community participation is necessary to improve the likelihood that ATF and our law enforcement partners will track down the firearms as well as the criminals who have sought to destabilize our community through illegal activity," ATF Special Agent in Charge John A. Torres said in the statement. ATF spokesman Special Agent Christian Hoffman could not say when reached by phone how many were arrested, whether they were military or civilian or what motive they may have had. He referred those questions to military officials, who made the ar-
lowering miners into the shaft collapsed Friday, trapping workers. "The search and rescue operation is continuing", said the emergency ministry. The concrete tower crashed to the ground, collapsing into a mass of rubble, tangled with wires, photographs released by the local emergency ministry branch showed. Yanukovych interrupted his holiday to travel to the scene of the Sukhodolskaya-Vostochnaya accident late Friday and meet relatives of victims and survivors. He also called for a government commission to investigate the disasters and to work on improving safety standards to protect miners. The Sukhodolskaya-Vostochnaya mine is run by a private holding called Metinvest Group, which is controlled by Rinat Akhmetov -Ukraine's richest man who bankrolled Yanukovych's presidential campaign in 2010. Deadly accidents are frequent in Ukrainian mines, most of which are located in the country's industrial eastern region. Many of the mines are underfunded and poorly equipped, while safety violations are rife.
rests. Phone and email messages left late Friday for a spokesman from the U.S. Army Criminal Investigations Command, which is investigating the theft along with the ATF and the FBI, were not immediately returned. Hoffman also could not say why word of the theft did not become public for two weeks, but said his agency decided to issue a news release because of the potential danger the loose weapons posed. "We determined that there was a public safety issue with the guns getting out on the street," he said. ing “irreconcilable differences.”
Political camp tradition resumes after Norway attack News) Record numbers of Young Liberals held Norway's first summer youth camp since last week's slaughter of 69 campers and the Oslo bomb that killed eight, but police were posted to guard the gathering.
It is the first political party camp to start since Anders Behring Breivik opened fire on Utoeya island last week as about 650 members of the youth wing of Norway's Labor Party gathered there to debate left-leaning policies and have fun. Seeking to halt Islamic immigration and restore what he sees as core European values abandoned by political parties, Breivik fired on many as they tried to swim away. The youngest were 14. "The barbaric attack on the Labor Party youth summer camp was in many ways an attack on us all, and by us I mean the youth political movement in Norway," said Sveinung Rotevatn, leader of the Young Liberals. Rotevatn, 23, said there was a "police presence" at the Young Liberals' island camp off Norway's south coast for the first time since the an-
nual event began in 1926. The Labor youth group had encouraged them not to cancel, he said. Some of the record-high 170 campers who turned up with tents and coolers wept or held one another as the camp opened with a tribute to those who died. "We don't want it to be just a mourning camp, but it will be shorter than planned, and will focus more on values than politics this year," Rotevatn said. All seven parties in Norway's parliament have active youth wings, a robust tradition in Scandinavia, the Netherlands and Germany. Two postponed their camps after the attack while the Young Conservatives canceled a "summer debate camp" altogether. "A lot of people are on edge here, but I wouldn't say afraid," said Christoffer Torris Olsen, attending his fifth Young Liberal summer camp. Norwegians have been surprised by comments outside the country questioning the suitability of political camps, where potential future leaders are groomed for office. "In the English-speaking world the idea of these youth camps may convey images of totalitarian regimes and indoctrination of children, but that is far from the reality," said Frank Aarebrot, a University of Bergen political scientist. "These youngsters are not sitting around admiring the party leader-
what the humiliation factor generated by the raid itself," he said. Lute's remarks in a panel discussion at the Aspen Security Forum here came after he was asked to respond to comments Thursday night by retired Adm. Dennis Blair, who was forced to resign last year as director of national intelligence. Blair, who left after Obama sided with the CIA in a series of policy disputes between that agency and Blair's office, said drone strikes have become counterproductive because they are provoking public outrage in Pakistan and potentially creating new enemies. Blair said the U.S. should offer Pakistan the chance to "put two hands on the trigger" as a partner in the program — and therefore only carry out strikes the Pakistanis approve. As it stands, he said, the attacks are undertaken without consultation with Pakistan's government, despite occasional cooperation in the past. Blair also argued against the U.S. conducting unilateral drone strikes in Yemen and Somalia. "We're treating the countries just as places where we go and attack," he said. Blair's comments marked the first time a former Obama administration official had publicly criticized a key tenet of the president's national security strategy. His views on drone attacks were repudiated by other former senior government officials attending the Aspen conference, including former California Congresswoman Jane Harman, a Democrat who chaired a homeland security intelligence subcommittee.
"Drone attacks … are a crucial tool in our counter-terrorism arsenal and I support them," she said. The disagreement is part of a broader debate over the efficacy of relatively low-cost drone strikes versus the far more expensive, long-term use of troops on the ground to wage a sustained counter-terrorism campaign. The administration has moved to draw down U.S. troop strength in the region, believing that the costs are unsustainable. Blair argued that the key to defeating Al Qaeda was for the Pakistani military to mount a sustained counterinsurgency to clear and hold the Afghanistan border areas where the group's leaders have taken refuge. Lute, reflecting the administration's view, noted that Pakistan's military has a presence in those areas, but despite billions in U.S. aid, its army has shown neither the willingness nor the capacity to root out militants. Asked about the current threat posed by Al Qaeda, Lute echoed comments made here Thursday by Michael Leiter, who recently departed as head of the National Counterterrorism Center. Al Qaeda has been wounded, but not yet defeated, he said, adding, "We're not ready to declare victory." Leiter had said that Al Qaeda's leaders in Pakistan were "on the ropes," but the organization remained capable of attacks and "Pakistan remains a huge problem" because it allows safe haven for Al Qaeda and affiliated groups in its tribal areas along the Afghan border.
Tropical Storm Don forms over Gulf of Mexico
All dead bodies were taken to the central Shia mosque ’Imambargah Hazara Town’ Shia leaders also held an emergency meeting to chalk out future plans to protect their community against similar attacks. Rahim Jaffry, a leader of the Shia community, said protests will be launched across the country if those responsible for the killings in Quetta were not arrested within 24 hours. He said the government had failed to protect lives and the community was left with no option but to launch protests. Shia groups also announced a shutter down strike in Quetta for Sunday and a 40-day mourning against the killing. Quetta has witnessed a series of bomb blasts and sectarian and targeted attacks in recent weeks. The Shia community accounts for around 15 per cent of the country’s population of over 170 million.
27 rifles stolen from California military base
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(Google News July 29, 2011) The U.S. is "doubling down" on its strategy of covert targeted missile strikes in Pakistan in the wake of Osama bin Laden's death, believing that Al Qaedais susceptible to a decisive blow, a senior Obama administration official said Friday. "I think there are three to five senior leaders that if they're removed from the battlefield, would jeopardize Al Qaeda's capacity to regenerate," said retired Gen. Douglas Lute, who oversees Afghanistan and Pakistan strategy at the National Security Council. He declined to name them, other than Ayman al Zawahiri, who succeeded Bin Laden as Al Qaeda's leader. "We've got to take advantage of the fact that when Bin Laden died, Al Qaeda was in uncharted waters," Lute said. "This is a period of turbulence.... You need to go for the knockout punch." Lute's comments were an unusually explicit statement of the thinking behind the administration's increased reliance on drones and other forms of remote attack against Al Qaeda. He avoided specifically referring to drone strikes, which are not officially acknowledged by the government, and instead talked of covert programs in Pakistan. But his meaning was clear. In a candid assessment, Lute also said the administration had not envisioned the extent to which senior Pakistani officials would be embarrassed less by the presence of Bin Laden in their country than by the U.S. raid to kill him without their knowledge. "We underestimated some-
Sectarian violence in Quetta kills 19 (Google News) In a fresh spurt of sectarian violence targeting Shias, at least 11 people were killed in Balochistan on Saturday; taking the toll over the past 24 hours to 19. The banned outfit, Lashkar-eJhangvi (LeJ) — which has targeted Shias in the past as part of its agenda to turn Pakistan into a Sunni state — had claimed responsibility for Friday's attack on the office of a private transport company where pilgrims were awaiting for a coach to take them to Iran. Though no one had claimed responsibility for Saturday's attack on a van carrying people to Quetta from Hazara Town area, police suspect this to be part of the sectarian violence as the victims were Shias again. According to Balochistan's Inspector General Police Amin Hashim, unidentified gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire at the van; resulting in the death of seven people on the spot and four others en route the hospital. Following this spurt in violence, police raided various places in sensitive areas and rounded up over 200 persons for interrogation. The at-
ship. They're promoting their own politics and mounting serious challenges to the mother party. There's also the usual boy-meets-girl thing at camp." While the Labor youth group has 9,500 members, the center-right Young Liberals number 1,000. About two dozen Liberal Party adults lent support as the four-day camp opened. "Those kids last week were killed because they liked politics," said Odd Einar Doerum, a former Liberal justice minister. "Politically active youths are not that large in number so we have to stand up for them." While Labor has a collectivist bent, the Young Liberals promote personal freedom and individual responsibility. Several said they would try to keep parliament from authorizing more hi-tech surveillance, saying that would be an "over reaction" to last week's tragedy. "We don't want a 'Norwegian Patriot Act'," said Young Liberals secretary Anders Bergsaker, referring to a U.S. law heightening security after the September 11, 2001, attacks. "I don't want a society where everyone is walking around suspicious of each other," said 21-year-old Hanne Kvilhaugsvik, who is studying to be a teacher.
PHILIPPINE BULLETIN
U.S. boosting efforts against Al Qaeda in Pakistan
(Google News) The storm forced several offshore energy operators to evacuate support workers, but was not yet strong enough to cause companies to shut in production. Shell Oil Co, Apache Corp, Anadarko Petroleum Corp said they were evacuating support workers primarily from western Gulf operations. BHP Billiton and BP Plc were evacuating support workers from central Gulf platforms. The storm was expected to move through the southern and central Gulf through Thursday and approach the Texas coast, the U.S. National Hurricane Center said. That path would take it near oil and gas operations in the western and west-central part of the Gulf, largely avoiding the biggest concentrations of production platforms south of New Orleans, but near several coastal refineries. "If the weather continues to move toward our facilities, we are prepared to remove additional personnel and shut in production at that time," Anadarko said. Oil traders were watching the storm develop, but said it was not yet having an impact on U.S. prices, which fell more than $2 a barrel on
Wednesday due to a rise in crude oil stocks and weak economic data. Wholesale gasoline differentials on the well-supplied Gulf Coast gained a penny per gallon, but traders said upsets at refineries in the region could have as much influence on prices as the storm. "A move to the North or Northwest could prompt precautionary shut-ins of offshore production facilities, depending on its intensity, although it will need to strengthen rapidly to pose any threat to facilities," JP Morgan analyst Lawrence Eagles said in a note. Other producers, including BP Plc, Exxon Mobil Corp, Chevron Corp and Mexico's state oil company Pemex said they were monitoring the storm. The Gulf accounts for 29 percent of U.S. oil production and 13 percent of natural gas output, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. About 30 percent of U.S. natural gas processing plant capacity also lines the Gulf Coast, the EIA said. Refiners along the Gulf Coast, home to 40 percent of the nation's refining capacity, were also watching the system.
INSURERS WATCHING The storm is being closely watched by the global insurance industry, which is on track for its worst year ever. Insurers and reinsurers have already lost more than $60 billion in 2011 on natural disasters, and a major U.S. hurricane landfall could become a market-changing event, letting insurance companies raise prices across the board after years of declines. Those possibly facing the biggest short-term hit include domestic insurers such as Travelers, Allstate and Chubb -- all of which have suffered huge tornado losses this year as well as reinsurers including Berkshire Hathaway The NHC said the system was about 755 miles east of Corpus Christi, Texas, and moving toward the west-northwest at nearly 12 miles per hour (19 km/h). The Texas coastal bend is the most heavily irrigated cotton area of the state. The crop's harvest is set to start in early August. A storm could damage the state's cotton production at a time when large parts of Texas have been baked by drought.
FBI offers $25,000 reward in case of Missing N.H. girl The Fed- arrest of anyone reeral Bureau of In- sponsible for her on disappearance. vestigation Authorities have been searching for Saturday offered a Celina Cass since she went missing $25,000 reward for on July 25 from her Stewartstown, information leading New Hampshire home, not far from the Canadian border. to the location of a The 5'5" tall Cass who has long missing 11-year-old brown hair and hazel eyes was wearing a pink shirt, pink pullover New Hampshire girl and blue shorts before she disaplast seen nearly a peared, authorities said. She was last seen at home around 9 p.m. week ago, and the local time on Monday.
(Google News)
The ongoing search for the young girl also prompted one private citizen to offer a $5,000 reward for any information leading to her whereabouts, New Hampshire senior assistant attorney general Jane Young said at a press conference. The FBI joined local and state authorities conducting the investigation earlier in the week. Authorities said an aggressive search for Cass continues and the reward offer does not indicate a change in the nature of the investigation. They continue to treat this as a missing person case.
Coloma addresses seminar of public relations practitioners in Quezon City
Aquino directs Deles to implement closure pact with Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (PR) Malacanang is in the process of drafting a Freedom of Information (FOI) bill that balances the interest of the government to withhold sensitive information and at the same time not curtail the right of the people to be informed, President Benigno Aquino III said. “My administration is in the process of drafting, and suggesting, a Freedom of Information bill that we believe will balance legitimate needs for secrecy with the public’s right to know,” the President said in his speech speech during the 25th anniversary celebration of the Philippine Star newspaper in Makati City on Thursday. “This right to know carries with it responsibilities—to use the information available in context; to present facts fairly; and to be conscious of some elements who may want to use the information not to inform the public, but to, rather, inflame them,” he added. The Chief Executive said the Palace is carefully studying the details of such legislation in order to ensure that it serves the public interest without compromising it. Malacanang is close to suggesting a legislation that balances the concerns of many stakeholders and at the same time truly empower the citizenry towards forming informed decisions, consistent with the Constitution, he said. “Once this bill is passed into law, the media will have greater access to all kinds of sensitive information. It is incumbent on you to use this access carefully and responsibly,” the President said as he asked the media not to view his statement as an attack to free press. According to the President, he believes that the press can continue strengthening its partnership with the people and with government to elevate the level of public discourse. “Partnership does not mean that we want media to be lap dogs of government; at the same time, media shouldn’t allow themselves to be used as attack dogs either,” the President said adding that the media’s ultimate role is to be a watchdog of the government. Last year, the House of Representatives failed to ratify the Freedom of Information bill because of the lack of a quorum to put the bill to a vote in the Lower House. Malacanang maintains that pushing for the passage of the FOI bill is one of its top priorities, noting however that the President wants to ensure that the proposed law keeps a balance between providing information to the public, and at the same time protecting confidential government information. Passing the FOI bill would concretize the President’s vision of stamping out government corruption by making the records of public transactions accessible to the public, especially to the press.
(PR) Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. shared with public relations practitioners from various private businesses and companies the communication strategies of the government in imparting to the Filipino people the “good news” that the Aquino administration are implementing to effect change towards progress and development. In his speech during the Second Module of the Public Relations Seminar of the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) at the GMA Network Corporate Center in Quezon City on Friday, Coloma meticulously explained to the seminar participants the President’s methods of communicating with the citizenry, an important tool that will help in ensuring the people’s participation in nation-building. Coloma defined the scope of work and duties of the government’s communication group. “What is presidential communication? It is to assure the citizens that a transparent and efficient government is working for them… ,” Coloma said. “Its goals also include promoting fruitful communication between the President and the people and to inspire them to actively participate in nation-building,” he added. The PCOO chief explained the process being used by the agency in encouraging people’s participation that begins with the President informing the citizens about what government is doing for them followed by his receiving feedback from the people. As a result, the people build a common ground for working together with government. Coloma also shared to the participants attending the seminar some remarks from prominent newspaper columnists regarding the Chief Executive’s signature style of addressing the public. In the column of Neal Cruz’s in the Philippine Daily Inquirer (PDI) on July 26, 2011, the simplicity and delivery of the President’s latest State of the Nation Address was cited. He also likened President Aquino to a painter showing the present state of the country. Another journalist, Conrado de Quiros also of the PDI, stated in his column, published on July 27, 2011, that the President’s SONA speech was one of the best he has ever heard. He said that President Aquino has become the best public speaker among the Presidents of the last half-century. “It was one of the best speeches I’ve heard. First off, I don’t know how anyone can fail to realize how P-Noy has become the best public speaker among the Presidents of the last half-century. Better than Marcos, better than Erap, better than Cory, and certainly better than Fidel Ramos and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo,” De Quiros said noting the remarkable development of the President as a public speaker. Secretary Coloma cited some of the projects that have been undertaken by the Aquino government namely, job generation: matching supply with demand, AFP modernization & housing for soldiers & police, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program: CCT, Synchronization of ARMM with national & local elections and Legislative priorities, among others. The PRSP is the country’s premier organization for public relations professionals. In its roster are practitioners who represent business and industry, government, non-profit organizations, hospitals, schools, hotels and professional services among others.
Malacanang cites increase of tourist arrivals (PR)Malacanang cited the continued influx of tourist arrival in the country which according to the Department of Tourism (DOT) has reached 1.6 million visitors from January to May 2011. In a regular press briefing in Malacanang on Friday, Presidential Deputy Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the DOT expressed optimism that it can meet the target of 3.74 million arrivals this year. “From January to May, 2011, na meet ng DOT iyong target nila for the number of visitors, umakyat po ito ng1.6 million at on track na po sila para ma-meet ang annual target na 3.74 million visitors. Posting a 12-percent growth from the same period last year, 170,000 more visitors almost midway into the year,” she said. Valte said DOT representatives had a meeting with President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday to present the Philippine National Tourism Development Plan for 20112016. The 2011 State of the Nation Address (SONA) Technical Report said the continued growth in visitor volume is the result of sustained marketing and promotions efforts undertaken jointly by the public and private sectors in key source markets, such as attending to travel fairs, invitational programs and very selective advertising. In 2010, visitor arrivals surpassed the 3.3 million target for the year reaching an alltime high of 3.52 million, 16.67% higher than the 2009 visitor arrivals of 3.01 million, according to the SONA Technical Report.
It was noted that in just the first year of the Aquino administration, a 15.60% increase in visitor arrivals was recorded from 3.2 million arrivals in the period July 2009-June 2010 to 3.7 million arrivals in the period July 2010-June 2011. “More particularly, in the first six months of the Aquino Administration, visitor volume grew by 21%, faster than the first semester of 2010’s 12% growth. Total receipts from visitors increased by 11.3% from $2.24 billion in 2009 to $2.49 billion in 2010,” the report said. The report added that the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) granted new permits to operate regular air services to Korean Airlines, Gulf Air, Continental Airlines, Pakistan International Airlines, which are expected to provide weekly seat capacity of 12,090 from Korea, Bahrain, Guam, and Palau. The CAB also granted permits to Jin Air, Jetstar Airways, Air Busan, Mandarin Airlines, Air Nippon Airways, and Jeju Air. These airlines are expected to bring in 1,498 and 2,265 tourists weekly from Japan and Korea, respectively. The DOT further estimates that there will be an additional 37,623 potential Japanese tourists and 56,888 potential Korean tourists in the country with these additional seat capacities. In 2010, Korean tourists accounted for the biggest chunk of visitor arrivals or 21.04% (740,622) while Japanese visitors accounted for 10.19% (358,744) of total tourist arrivals.
Palace says country must learn from 2004, 2007 alleged election fraud
(PR) The country must strive to put closure to the allegations of election cheatings in 2004 and 2007 so that it doesn’t repeat the same mistake, Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said. Lacierda made this statement in response to the criticism of some lawmakers who said the public must forget about the alleged 2004 and 2007 electoral fraud that put former president and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to power as well as some of her allies. The President’s spokesman said the real purpose of the reopening of the investigation in the election anomaly is to discern what really happened during those electoral exercises. “We should remember the past in order for us not to repeat the past (mistakes). That’s what we’re doing,” he said in a press briefing in Malacanang on Thursday. “We’re coming up with the truth we’re discovering the truth, so that as a people and as a body politic we should not allow ourselves to repeat these illegal acts.” Asked by reporters on how the government would be able to charge the former leader amid legal opinions saying the she can no longer be held accountable after she stepped down, Lacierda cited a theory inunciated by Comelec chair Sixto Brillantes. “There’s a theory by Chairman Brillantes saying that the prescription has not started to run against the former president because she was enjoying presidential immunity while she was the sitting president. But it’s a theory of Brillantes and that remains to be resolved,” he said. The idea is to show what really happened during the 2004 and 2007 elections Lacierda said, adding that recent revelations if ever they can be proven to be factual would help in resolving what really happened during those elections. Lacierda noted that witnesses coming out to reveal what they know about the alleged cheatings show their confidence in the present administration. As to whether the government can pin down the former leader, Lacierda said the important thing is that the government is able to discover the truth whether the elections of 2004 and 2007 were legitimately and properly conducted according to law. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Department of Justice (DoJ) have agreed to conduct a joint inquiry into the alleged electoral fraud. The Comelec said it would handle the criminal aspect that might come up in the joint investigation. The joint inquiry would proceed even without the participation of former Comelec commissioner Virgilio Garcillano, believed to have had phone conversations with then President Arroyo to rig the 2004 election results.
3 journalists killed in Nato raid: Libya (Google News Jul 31, 2011) TRIPOLI: Libya said three journalists were killed in a Nato air strike on state television on Saturday and that the murder of the rebels' army chief proved al-Qaida was instigating country's armed revolt. "Three of our colleagues were murdered and 15 injured while performing their professional duty as Libyan journalists," said Khaled Basilia, director of Al-Jamahiriya TV's English service.
He branded the air strike "an act of international terrorism and in violation of UN Security Council resolutions." Earlier, Nato in Brussels announced it had carried out precision strikes on three Libyan television transmitters to silence "terror by Muammar broadcasts" Gaddafi's regime. Nato conducted a precision air strike that disabled three ground-based Libyan state TV satellite transmission dishes in Tripoli.
Revolution in Istanbul / Turkish rewrite The change in military top brass following the wholesale resignation of the top military commanders may subordinate the military to civilian rule, reversing the army’s trad i t i o n a l predominance.
(Google News Jul 31, 2011)
For the first time in the history of modern Turkey, the military leadership quit over a disagreement with the government, rather than the government being the one to go. Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan grabbed the historic opportunity that fell into his lap with both hands. Now he can definitively impose civil rule over the military, destroying one of fundamental principles of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk's regime. That principle gave the army the authority to defend the foundations of the constitution, and thus also to remove governments that did not comply with Ataturk's principles. The wholesale resignation of the
top military commanders will have minimal impact on military performance, but the political implications are vast. It would not be an exaggeration to describe it as a revolution in Turkey's power structure. The timing of the resignations are tied to the annual August meeting of the country's military council to decide on appointments and dismissals in the army. Last year, Erdogan rejected the majority of the recommendations made by Chief of Staff Gen. Isik Kosaner on the grounds that some of the candidates were connected to one of the alleged conspiracies against the government. Kosaner accepted Erdogan's position and waited a year to put forth his candidates. But in preparation for the meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, Erdogan told Kosaner, "I don't want to see any surprises on the nominations list." The premier was thus implying he would not approve the appointments of any senior officers implicated in the incidents under investigation. Erdogan, who was reelected in a landslide in June and now seeks to advance the constitutional reforms supported by the majority of Turks, is completing his transformation into today's Ataturk. Just like the father of modern Turkey, Erdogan controls a one-party regime, with no meaningful opposition.
Israelis will ‘give up’ on Egyptian gas, expert says (Google News Jul 31, 2011)
Blast is third this month, fifth this year; masked men attack police station after riding through el-Arish, waving flags with Islamic slogans.
After gunmen attacked the Egyptian gas pipeline in the northern Sinai on Saturday – the fifth such attack in the past six months – an Israeli energy expert said he believes that Israeli officials and the country’s major gas consumers have all but “given up” on that source of natural gas. “According to the partial information we have, this explosion only affects the export of Egyptian gas to Israel,” Amit Mor, CEO and energy specialist at the Eco Energy consulting firm, told The Jerusalem Post on Saturday night. “It was directed against Israel and will not affect future supplies of gas to Jordan, Syria and Lebanon.” During Saturday’s attack, the saboteurs used rocket-propelled grenades to puncture a hole in a section of the pipeline that normally directs gas to Israel, but whose supply had not yet been resumed from the previous attack, on July 12, Reuters reported. The gunmen arrived in two trucks but sped away from
the site after being confronted by Egyptian troops. There were no casualties, the report said. “It is crucial to Israel that the Egyptian government establishes security control, especially in northern Sinai – and especially at the crossing point in Rafah on the Egyptian- Gazan border – to prevent the smuggling of an arsenal against Israel, and also to secure the natural gas pipeline to Israel,” Mor told the Post. “I think the major consumers and government all have given up on the supply of Egyptian gas to Israel.” The gas supply to Israel had been due to resume shortly, according to Mor. “While important for geopolitical and economic reasons, Israel can do without that gas – although the public will pay much higher prices, especially for electricity, in the short term,” he said. “It is a major challenge to the current – and any future – Egyptian government to maintain sovereignty in Sinai.” Mor added that the Egyptian gas situation would be a bellwether of future policy emanating from Cairo. “The resumption of the full contractual obligation of gas supply to Israel can be used as a testcase of the Egyptian government to maintain its international obligations visa- visforeign direct investments in Egypt on the one hand, and its future relations with Israel on the other,” he said.
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Accession of H.H. Sheikh Zayed August 6 UAE Accession day or the day on which H. H Sheikh Zayed Bin
Sultan Al Nahyan became the president of United Arab Emirates is celebrated in UAE on August 6 of every year. The accession of Sheikh Zayed to the throne happened in the year 1966. This accession marked the start of a new epoch in the history of United Arab Emirates. Sheikh Zayed was a futurist and farsighted thinker who wanted to unite the country and its people. In more than 3 decades of his rule, he made sure that with every step he is moving an inch closer towards his goal.
National day is a day on which a country celebrates marking its nationhood. The day can be either a day when the country gets independence, or can be a day, when a particular ruler, or kingdom gets to the throne or is removed. It can even be a day when the country gets republic. All the above mentioned criteria are enough for considering that day as a National Day. Though the Day might not be called a National Day, it is celebrated with the same feeling. The National day of Benin, which is popularly known as the Republic of Benin, is celebrated on August 1. The country Benin is situated in the western part of the continent Africa. Its name comes from the water body on which it is lying. The name was changed from Dahomey to the Republic of Benin, after it got independence. The new name Benin was given for the sake of neutrality.
HISTORY
H. H Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan is the brain behind what UAE is today. He implemented many new infrastructure projects, which lead to the development of United Arab Emirates. He took many steps in the direction of uniting his country and as well as maintaining healthy relations with the neighboring countries. He exploited the oil reserves of UAE in well planned and technical ways which lead to prosperity and filling up the treasure of the states. This was the reason why Forbes considered him as one of the wealthiest person in the world.
TRADITIONS AND ACTIVITIES
Accession day is celebrated in UAE with great enthusiasm. For almost a week, the whole country is gripped in the festive atmosphere. Many government and non-government organizations prepare for more than a month so that Accession Day celebrations are colorful and flamboyant than ever. Shining and sparkling fireworks lit up the night sky of Abu Dhabi. Many traditional concerts and dances take place, which attracts many tourists to the country. People flock the roads in their traditional attire and cars and other vehicles are decorated with the national flag. The television channels show many documentaries about the Accession Day throughout the day.
Independence Day BENIN - August 1
History
H.H. Sheikh Zayed
Independence Day BOLIVIA - July 6 The people of Bolivia celebrate the Bolivian Independence
Day on the 6th day of August every year to commemorate the end of the Spanish dominion. The Spanish conquered Bolivia in the year 1524, and a counter offensive against the Spanish Empire was launched under the leadership of the Bolivian leader Simon Bolivar (after whom Bolivia is named) in the year, and achieved independence from the Spanish rule on August 8, 1925.
History
Bolivia then known as “Upper Peru”, was a Spanish colony under the Viceroy of Lima. Initially it was an Aymara civilization however subsequently it was invaded by the Inca and then finally by the Spanish in the year 1524. The Spanish ruled Bolivia with the help of some local government authorities coming from the Audiecia de Charcas located in Chuquisaca (modern Sucre), and they generally employed people of Bolivia (then upper Peru) to work in the silver mines they had acquired. Bolivian silver was very popular and expensive and was the main source of revenue of the Spanish Empire. The people of Bolivia served as the greatest labor force of the Spanish Empire in this greatest source of revenue, however the people were treated like slaves due to which resentment grew against the Spanish slowly and gradually among the people of Upper Peru (Bolivia). Plots against the empire couldn’t be made since they lacked a good leader, and the Spanish authority was very strong, which almost made the Spanish invincible. The people were waiting for a chance to launch a revolt against the unjust and cruel Spanish Rule and finally the time arrived. Due to different “Napoleonic Wars”, the Spanish power weakened by the year 1776, due to this, the people under the leadership of Simon Bolivar taking advantage launched a struggle for independence on the year 1809, and finally gained independence from the Spanish empire 16 years after the launch of the freedom movement in the year 1925. After the independence from the Spanish, Bolivia was ruled by a series of dictators, who tried to unite all the three regions of the country including Altiplano, the central region and the eastern Andes region.
TRADITIONS AND ACTIVITIES
Bolivian Independence Day is celebrated every year with great pomp and show on the 6th day of August every year. The events are generally based on the History, the culture and traditions of Bolivia and the events include patriotic parades through the streets, school functions, music and other forms of entertainment, and loud gun salutes. The functions are organized throughout the country, and musical and theater shows displaying history, the gain of independence, and patriotism are organized everywhere on the day. The main attraction and the general custom of celebrations are the Military parades on the day, which is simply magnificent. The day is a national holiday of Bolivia locally known as Dia de la Patria. The celebrations continue for a full day especially on the capital city of Bolivia ‘La Pez.’
Independence Day JAMAICA - August 6 Jamaica National Day was first celebrated on August 6, 1962 by raising the National Flag which signified the birth of the nation. This auspicious occasion is celebrated every year in Jamaica and 6th day of August is noted as a national holiday in Jamaica.
History
The history of independence of Jamaica was approved through General elections. February 1962 saw the Legislation & the Premier Norman Manley approving the new constitution and called it the General Elections. In this way, Alexander Bustamente got elected during April and was first one to be the Jamaican Prime Minister. On August 6, 1962, the nation was given the status of an independent country and a member of the British Commonwealth. The British would dominate the Jamaicans and they did not have access to rights and freedom. Jamaica becoming an independent nation now meant that Britain no longer controlled the affairs of the country. It was now the responsibility of the newly elected Prime Minister and the locally elected Cabinet to look into the matter to ensure equal rights and freedom to all the Jamaican citizens. Jamaica has various national symbols, which are the representatives of their rich history & culture. Its national Flag, Tree, Fruit and Bird, all signifies its rich culture, which defines the Jamiacans, who are extremely proud of where they come from. The Flag brings memories of the past achievements to mind. It also imparts inspiration toward further successes. It gets flown during several triumphant occasions and shows the pride, which Jamaicans have in the country as well as the flag. The flag is of three different colors such as black, gold and green. Black depicts creativity and strength of its people; gold depicts the wealth & beauty of the sunlight and the green, which shows the hope and the agricultural resources. The Blue Mohoe (Hibiscus Elatus) is the National Tree of Jamaica. Its National fruit is the Ackee (Blighia sapida). Last but not the least, its National bird is the beautiful Doctor-bird, which is also called as Swallow-tail humming bird. Thus, these symbols distinguish the Jamaicans from the others.
The history of Benin includes the succession of kingdoms and thus has been under the dependence of various countries. The rich wealth of the country was taken up by the kingdoms, which ruled here. Thus, turning the country and its people under the poverty line. It is not amongst the rich country. A major population of this country lives under the poverty line. The main reason of this is the successive domination of other countries and kingdom on this country. In 1704, France was granted a permission to erect a fort in one of the cities of Benin. After few years, Portugal founded a city Benin. Then, it was given autonomy and was named “the colony of Dahomey and its dependences”. Following that, it became a part of the French West Africa. Finally, in 1958, Benin proclaimed Republic. On August 1, 1960, Benin formed an independent country. Thus, the day is celebrated as the National day of Benin.
TRADITIONS AND ACTIVITIES
National day is a day of celebration for everyone starting from the people of government to those in opposition. None are left apart. The celebration includes ordinary people in a large scale. It also becomes a time when almost everyone thinks about the upcoming development and the past developments. The stress is given on the developments that have taken place in the last few years of independence. And special interests are taken in displaying the developments under the government that is ruling. The debate in the speeches of the leaders of the government as well as of the opposition clearly reflects about the recent changes that takes place in the country. The first Independence Day was celebrated in a major enthusiasm. The flag of France was replaced by the flag Of Benin, and was hoisted in public to show their freedom form France. Since then, this activity is always repeated on every National Day, to make all the people residing in the country feel that they are free and are not under the dominion of any country. National Day is one of the holidays, which is really celebrated in large scale in Benin.
Independence Day
BURKINA FASO - August 5
Burkina Faso celebrates its independence day every year on August 5th. This country got independent from French rule in 1960. Before that, the territory was merged with and separated from other French territories in West Africa. Until the end of 19th century, the empire-building Mossi dominated the history of Burkina Faso. In 1896, the French claimed the area but Mossi resistance was there till 1901, when the French captured the capital, Ouagadougou. In 1919, the colony of upper Volta was established. It was dismantled and reconstituted several times. The present borders were recognized in 1947.
TRADITIONS AND ACTIVITIES
In this way, Burkina Faso has come a long way in 47 years. It has established its own identity. Every citizen of the country celebrates the Independence Day with unmatched enthusiasm. It is a fact that the country is still poor economically but it is showing a continuous growth of 5%. There are nearly 60 ethnic groups in the country and many religions, which live side by side peacefully. They all take the pledge on the Independence Day to make their country prosperous and peaceful.
Emancipation Day St. Kitts & Nevis - August 2 Emancipation Day is celebrated in many former British colonies in the Caribbean and areas of
the United States on various dates in observance of the emancipation of slaves of African origin. It is also observed in other areas in regard to the abolition of serfdom or other forms of servitude.
August 1
Saint Lucia Barbados: Emancipation Day in Barbados is part of the annual "Season of Emancipation" which runs from April 14 to August 23. The Season, includes the anniversary of the Slave Rebellion led by the Right Excellent Bussa, National hero, in 1816 , National Heroes Day on April 28, the Crop Over Festival,the Day of National Significance on July 26(in commemoration of the social unrest of 1937)and International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition on August 23.
The Jamaica National Day is officially celebrated by announcing a national holiday in the whole country. The Jamaican people come down in the streets and go for parades. They celebrate their Independence Day by wearing clothes and shoes with the colors of the Jamaican National Flag. A festival is held on this occasion, which is commonly known as the Jamaica Festival. This festival provides a major trading opportunity for a number of Jamaicans. The mandate of the Jamaica Festival is to primarily focus on the “Things Jamaican”; the creativity in Jamaican and their cultural awareness across different levels in socio-economic reforms. Edward Seaga, the JLP Minister, who looked after Development & Welfare then, spelled out during the Jamaica’s Long-term Development Plan (1963-1968) that the festival was imperative for national development. According to him, it was the way to give Jamaicans the sense of what they are, and what is their culture and history is all about. It prevails even today and identifies the Jamaicans.
Parent's Day Zaire (Democratic Congo) - August 1
History
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Parents Day is celebrated on August 1 every year. This day is dedicated to the parents throughout the country. The history of the country does not suggest practice of any such day in the country, but in reality, there is a day called Parents Day. It is also a public holiday for the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The history of the country shows that only hunters and gathers used to reside in the country. The civilizations were settled after the migrations of various tribes. These tribes used to settle along the river sides or near the edges of the forests. But then gradually, many kingdoms and rulers were established. In 1884-85, a king named Leopold claimed his power in the Berlin discussion, and thus recognized the country (formerly known as Zaire) as a free Congo state in front of the Europeans. After that, he found that he was not sufficiently funded to develop the state and thus had to ask support. That led the country to go under the hands of Belgians. Gradually, with many revolts, the country got independence, but the conflict after that lead the U.N. to get involved and solve the matter. Thus, gradually the conflict ended and people finally were freed from any undesirable pressure.
TRADITIONS AND ACTIVITIES
Thus, Parent’s Day being celebrated in such a country does sound a bit awkward, but it is a reality. Parents Day is celebrated here with equal emphasis and enthusiasm like in any other country or any other part of the world. Parents are not only the person who gave you birth and brought you up. They are those, who laid the building blocks of your life. Nobody can deny the fact that whatever we are today and whatever we will be tomorrow is all because of our parents. Thus, a day to them is nothing in return of what they give us. The Parents Day is celebrated in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on a huge scale. Cards with beautiful quotes and pleasing lines to reflect the feelings and respect towards the parents, wonderful gifts that makes them feel special, and an atmosphere, which makes them realize that they are not taken for granted and always respected loved and cared. Parents Day has huge importance and thus, the people get a public holiday on this great day.
Revolution Day BURKINA FASO - August 4
Anniversary of the Revolution is a national holiday to commemorate the revolution that took place on August 5, 1960. Former Upper Volta is now known as Burkina Faso. It was named Burkina Faso after the 1983 revolution that saw the rise of Thomas Sankara to power. Burkina Faso means “the land of upright people”.
History of the celebration
Full independence was attained in 1960. The country saw its first military coup in 1966, and civilian rule returned in 1978. Another revolt took place in 1980, led by Saye Zerbo but he was later overthrown in 1982. In 1983, a counter coup was launched under the leadership of the charismatic Captain Thomas Sankara to power. On this day, the country was renamed as Burkina Faso. As mentioned before it means “the land of upright people”, in More and Dioula which are the major native languages of the country. Literally, “Burkina” mean the “men of integrity” in More language, and the meaning of “Faso” is “father’s house” in Dioula. The Republic of Upper Volta gained freedom in 1960. The first president was Maurice Yameogo of the Voltaic Democratic Union. After he came to power, every political party was banned by Yameogo. The government survived until 1966. After that when the mass unrest grew out of control military intervened. The military revolt deposed Yameogo. The constitution was suspended and the National Assembly was dissolved. Lt. Col. Sangoule Lamizana was placed at the head of the government. The army was there in power until 1970. After that, the constitution was ratified and Lamizana remained the head of the mixed civil military government throughout the 70s. On November 25, 1980, the Col. Saye Zerbo overthrew the President Lamizana and left him in the bloodless coup. The 1977 constitution was eradicated and the Military Committee of Recovery for National Progress was established as the main governmental body. CSP (Council of Popular Salvation) overthrew Zerbo in 1982. Unrest continued to grow amongst the moderates and the radicals in the CSP. Capt. Thomas Sankara, the then prime minister was arrested. The efforts to release him resulted in another military coup. Following the coup, Sankara formed the CNR (National Council for the Revolution) and made himself the president. He was strongly anti-corruption. Sankara did a lot to “mobilize the masses”. For this purpose, he established CDR (Committees for the Defense of the Revolution). They had another function of implementing the revolutionary programs of the CNR. The exact membership of the CNR could never be known. It remained a secret till the end. The CNR contained the two small Marxist-Leninist groups. Sankara himself, Compaore, Maj. Jean-Baptiste Lingani and Capt. Henri Zongo – all the leftist military officers, who dominated the regime.
TRADITIONS AND ACTIVITIES
On August 4, 1984, the “land of honorable people”, Burkina Faso, emerged out of Upper Volta. Sankara, on this very day launched a movement to mobilize the masses. The enigmatic leader sought by word, and by deed to initiate this massive boot strap development revolution. The fellow citizens of Sankara still commemorate the endeavors of their strong ideological leader on Revolution Day.
Powell wins 100 meters in 9.86 in Hungary BUDAPEST, Hungary (Google News) — Asafa Powell won the 100-meter race in 9.86 seconds at the Hungarian Grand Prix on Saturday, the fastest run in the country. The Jamaican was the only competitor to run under 10 seconds in windy conditions and 68-degree temperature at Ferenc Puskas Stadium, finishing ahead of Ngonidzashe Makusha of Zimbabwe and Andrew Hinds of Barbados. "I could have gone a lot faster today but I was working on some stuff," said Powell, whose personal best is 9.72. "It was cold and I was a bit cautious. It was still a good time." Powell will compete at the Aviva Grand Prix Diamond League meet in London next weekend. It's his last race
before the world championships, which start Aug. 27 in Daegu, South Korea. "This is my year and I'll try my best. We'll see if it's enough for a gold medal (at the worlds)," said Powell, who won bronze in the 100 at the worlds in 2007 and 2009. Veronica CampbellBrown of Jamaica won the women's 200 in 22.26 seconds, with Sanya Richards-Ross of the United States second in 22.63. Blessing Okagbare of Nigeria was third. Joel Craddock led an American sweep of the top three spots in the 110 hurdles, winning in 13.48. Kevin Craddock was second, followed by Jeff Porter. Kevin Borlee of Belgium took the 400 in 45.91, followed by Hungary's Marcell
Emancipation Day celebrations usually feature a Walk from Independence Square in Bridgetown to the Heritage Village at the Crop Over Bridgetown Market on the Spring Garden Highway. At the Heritage Village, apart from a concert, there is also a wreath-laying ceremony as a tribute to the ancestors. Traditionally, the Prime Minister, the Minister responsible for Culture and representatives of the Commission for Pan African Affairs are among those laying wreaths. Bermuda: Celebration usually occurs on August 2, despite August 1 being the national holiday. On the island the holiday is better known as the first day of "Cupmatch", an annual two-day cricket competition between the St. George's and Somerset cricket clubs. Guyana Jamaica Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Islands
First Monday in August
Anguilla: In addition to commemorating emancipation, it is the first day of "August Week", the Anguillian Carnival celebrations. J'ouvert is celebrated on this morning, as Carnival commences. The Bahamas: Celebrations are mainly concentrated in Fox Hill Village, Nassau, a former slave village whose inhabitants, according to folklore, heard about their freedom a week after everyone else on the island. There is a also a celebration beginning on August 1 and lasting several days held in the charming settlement of Hatchet Bay on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera known as the Bay Fest. British Virgin Islands: The first Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of August are celebrated as "August Festival". Saint Kitts and Nevis: The first Monday and Tuesday are celebrated as "Emancipation Day" and also Carnival in Nevis.
Canada
The Slavery Abolition Act 1833 ended slavery in the British Empire on August 1, 1834, and thus also in Canada. However, the first colony in the British Empire to actually abolish slavery was Upper Canada, now Ontario. A British army officer and later the first Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada (1791-1796), John Graves Simcoe, passed an Act Against Slavery in 1793, which lead to the abolition of slavery in Upper Canada by 1810. It was then superseded by the Slavery Abolition Act 1833. While the date of the First August Monday holiday in Canada is historically linked to the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1834; not all of provinces' commemorate the holiday as such.
Florida
Martyr's Day GUINEA - August 3
Colonization Martyr’s Day is observed as an anniversary of the killings of Pidjiguiti — a day of remembrance of the brave martyrs of the nation.
History of the celebration
Guinea-Bissau is a country of the western African continent on Atlantic Ocean. Populated by the Malinke, Fulani and other people from West Africa, Portuguese were the first ones to visit the country during the 15th century. Later on, it became one of the Portuguese colonies (1879). The history of Guinea-Bissau was dominated by Portugal from the 1450s to 1970s. Since independence, the country has been primarily controlled by a single-party system. Portuguese conquest and the consolidation of country’s interior did not start till the last half of 19th century. This was the time, when Portuguese lost a portion of the island to the French from West Africa. The struggle for independence was started in 1956 by PAIGC (African Party for Independence of Guinea & Cape Verde). In 1961, it started the armed rebellion against Portuguese. After repeated pressure from the PAIGC, the Portuguese finally met their downfall in 1974. Following Carnation Revolution in April 1974 at Portugal, the country granted independence for the Guinea-Bissau on the September 10th of 1974. Half-brother of Amílcar Cabral, Luís Cabral, was the Guinea-Bissau’s first president. Colonization Martyr’s Day is observed as an anniversary of the killings of Pidjiguiti. It is celebrated on August 3. It is marked as a day of remembrance of the brave martyrs of the nation. It originates from the Pidjiguiti massacre of 1959. The PAIGC launched their first major movement by instigating the dock-workers strike for better salaries. They did it at Pijiguiti Docks in the Guinea’s Port of Bissau on August 3, 1959. The P.I.D.E. (political police) suppressed this strike, open wild fire on striking workers and killed more than 50 people. The political authorities put the entire blame on the PAIGC for framing discontentment among the poor, absent-minded workers. However, the loss had already occurred; more than 50 families lost their working heads. It urged a national trauma, which would never be fully cured. That traumatic day of August 3, 1959 is observed nationwide as the Colonization Martyr’s Day.
(Google News Jul 31, 2011 )Much has been written about the pressing need to produce an Emirati Formula One driver to assist the country's ambition of developing an organic motorsports culture.
clocked at 148.75kph, and a large marble plaque in his memory is fastened to the wall at the entrance to the Hungaroring's media facilities. Sir Frank Williams, the 69-year-older owner of Williams F1, was in
A look in the packed stands at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya in May, or on the streets surrounding the Nurburgring last week, provide proof that national heroes grow national interest. Yet, Hungary, the host venue of Saturday's grand prix, has been contradicting that accepted rule since 1986. For 26 years, the Hungaroring, the popular racing circuit located on the outskirts of Budapest, has remained a mainstay on the world championship calendar. Only Monza and Monte Carlo have done likewise, but while the Italian and Monaco grands prix are steeped in history, and the nations have produced a series of Formula One drivers, Hungary's relationship with motor racing is far less renowned. Zsolt Baumgartner remains the only Hungarian driver to compete in Formula One, racing for Jordan and Minardi in 2003 and 2004. Close to 100 years earlier, however, in 1906 - almost half a century before Formula One was created - Hungary provided the winner of the first international grand prix. Ferenc Szisz finished 32 minutes ahead of his closest rival, an Italian, as he completed 12 laps of a makeshift 103-kilometre track in Le Mans. His fastest speed was
Hungary in 1986 when Formula One first appeared behind the Iron Curtain. "It was a grim, unattractive, poorly maintained no-investment place," he said. "But it is quite different now." Pal Schmitt, the country's president, wrote in his opening salutations in this weekend's race programme that "the Hungaroring has always succeeded in presenting fascinating and exciting races" and both Sebastian Vettel, the world champion, and Lewis Hamilton, the 2008 champion, said the challenging circuit is the secret to Hungary's endurance. Hamilton yesterday called it "one of the best tracks we have on the calendar" and noted it to be "quite historic" also. Yet, ahead of the Turkish Grand Prix in May, almost all 24 drivers spoke of their affection for Istanbul Park and it did little to prevent Bernie Ecclestone, the sport's commercial rights owner, scoring the race off the provisional schedule for next season. Jenson Button, Hamilton's teammate at McLaren-Mercedes, arguably edged closer to the truth when he acknowledged - in jest - a more likely logic. "Probably the main reason is there is a road called Bernie Avenue on the way into the circuit," he said, in reference to a small blue sign positioned at
In Columbus, Mississippi, Emancipation Day is celebrated on May 8, known locally as "Eight o' May". As in other southern states, the local celebration commemorates the date in 1865 when African Americans in eastern Mississippi learned of their freedom.
Texas
In Texas, Emancipation Day is celebrated on June 19. It commemorates the announcement in Texas of the abolition of slavery made on that day in 1865. It is commonly known as Juneteenth.
Kentucky
Emancipation Day is celebrated on August 8 in Paducah and McCracken County, Kentucky. According to the Paducah Sun newspaper, this is the anniversary of the day slaves in this region learned of their freedom.
Puerto Rico
The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico celebrates Emancipation Day, an official holiday, on March 22.
U.S. Virgin Islands
The United States Virgin Islands celebrates Emancipation Day, an official holiday, on July 3. It commemorates the abolition of slavery by Danish Governor Peter von Scholten on July 3, 1848.
The Jewish athletes who repudiated Nazi ideals (Google News July 30, 2011) Three generations after swastikas and the
Olympic rings vied for prominence at the Reichssportfeld in Berlin, black American track star Jesse Owens remains an icon of anti-racism and anti-fascism simply because his four gold medals discomfited Aryan supremacists in the "Nazi Games." Rather less familiar, though perhaps more potent symbols, were the 13 Jewish athletes who won medals at the Games. They include Canada's Irving Meretsky and, remarkably, even one German team member. Helene Mayer, a fencer who had won gold in the 1928 Games, was reluctantly added to the German team as a sop to the U.S. Olympic Committee, which was looking for a way to blunt a Jewish-led campaign for an American boycott of the Games. Tall, blond, green-eyed and Jewish on her father's side, Mayer was proclaimed an "honorary Aryan" for the duration of the Games. In the end, Mayer won a silver medal in the individual foil competition, losing the gold, much to the Nazis' chagrin, to another half-Jewish fencer, Hungary's Ilona Elek. As if that wasn't ignominy enough for the German Olympic committee, the bronze medal in the same competition went to a third Jewish athlete, Berlin-born Ellen Preis, who fenced for Austria. But at least as controversial as the Jewish athlete who donned a swastika to win a medal is the fate of two American-Jewish athletes who were denied a medal by the machinations of their own team officials. 18-year-old Marty Glickman from Syracuse University and Sam Stoller, 21, a University of Michigan track star, were the only Jews on the track team the U.S. brought to Berlin. They had trained for the 4x100metre relay and been personally assured spots on the team by Lawson Robertson, head coach of the American track team, according to historian David Clay Large, author of Nazi Games: The Olympics of 1936. For more than a week in Berlin, Glickman and Stoller practised for the relay, but on the eve of the trials, Robertson called a team meeting. He announced that the two Jewish athletes would be replaced by Jesse Owens and the man who had come a close second to Owens in the 100metre dash, another black athlete, Ralph Metcalfe. Roberston said he had growing concerns about the competition and wanted his best men on the track, though most observers felt that any combination of the U.S. track team could win the relay easily. As it turned out, the American relay team walked away with the competition, crossing the finish line with about 10 metres between themselves and the second-place Italian team, and 15 metres ahead of the thirdplace Germans. Based on earlier training times, writes Large, there is little doubt that the original relay team would have also won gold. Throughout his life, Marty Glickman remained convinced that the lastminute switch had been made at the urging of U.S. Olympic Committee president Avery Brundage, a Nazi sympathizer, so as not to further embarrass the Fuehrer. In 1998, when Glickman was 80, the USOC all but admitted the fact, awarding him its first Douglas MacArthur Award for lifetime achievement, and referring pointedly to the controversy. Stoller did not get the same vindication; he had died earlier. Because of the relay team decision, the U.S. had only one Jewish medal winner in 1936. Sam Balter, at fivefoot-10, was the shortest member of the American basketball team that prevailed over Canada, but he still averaged more than eight points a game during the tournament. Among the other Jews whose Olympic honours repudiated Nazi ideals were: GOLD Gyorgy Brody, Hungary, Water Polo: He played six matches as a goalkeeper for the Hungarians. He was also on the gold-medal winning team Hungary sent to the 1932 Games in Los Angeles. Miklos Sarkany, Hungary, Water Polo: Brody's teammate in 1932 and 1936 would become a trainer for Hungary's national team for many years after the war. Karoly Karpati, Hungary, Freestyle Wrestling: Karpati's medal was particularly satisfying, because he defeated the German favourite, Wolfgang Ehrl, who had won the European championship in each of the previous three years. Endure Kabos, Hungary, Individual Sabre and Team Sabre: Kabos won 24 of 25 matches on his way to winning gold, but his status as a fencer did nothing to protect him during the war. Hungarian officials sent him to a forced labour camp. He escaped from the camp and died while fighting for the Hungarian resistance. Ibolya Csak, Hungary, High Jump: Csak broke a four-way tie in the final heat of the women's high-jump by clearing 162 centimetres. She would survive the war working in Hungary's Banknote Printing Co. Robert Fein, Austria, Weightlifting: Fein came from behind in the lightweight division to tie with Egyptian weightlifter Anwar Mesbah and share the gold medal. SILVER Jadwiga Wajs, Poland, Discus: Germans won the gold and bronze medals in the women's discus throw in 1936, but Wajs took the silver, improving on her bronze medal in Los Angeles four years earlier. BRONZE Gerard Blitz, Belgium, Water Polo: Blitz is perhaps better known as the man who, after the war, founded the international resort chain that would come to be known as Club Med. But first he was a Belgian water polo champion from a family of water polo champions. He fought in the French resistance during the war.
Rosberg and Schumacher Visited Mercedes-Benz Plant in Hungary (Google News July 29, 2011) Since the two Petronas GP drivers Nico
Rosberg and Michael Schumacher are already in Hungary for the Hungarian GP, they took the time to visit the Mercedes-Benz plant in Kecskemet. About 1,200 employees of the plant gathered around them and greeted them. The two responded very well to their ‘fans’. They also answered some questions regarding the newest happening in Formula 1 race. After that they went on and signed autographs. That was a very fun day for the staff at the Keckskemet plant,and for sure , it will refresh and inspire them as they prepare for the A and B class to roll off the plant’s assembly lines. The Mercedes-Benz plant is estimated to be bigger as its goal is to have about 2,500 employees by the year 2013 and they are targeting to produce 100,000 cars per year.
EU court raps Hungary over failure to return child to her father (Google News July 29, 2011) Hungary failed in its obligation to return a
girl to France after her parents divorced, the European Court of Human Rights ruled on Thursday. The child's mother took the child to Hungary illegally in 2007. A Hungarian court ordered in 2008 that the girl be returned to her Irish father in France, but Hungarian authorities failed to ensure that the ruling was enforced. Although the woman was arrested in Hungary in July 2009, a Budapest court ordered her release the next day. The mother then disappeared, taking the child with her. The court awarded €32,000 to the father, but both parties can appeal the ruling within three months. The parents divorced in 2005 and both were entitled to raise the child.
Pre-Hungary analysis – Budapest brings mixed memories (Google News July 29, 2011) Hungary marks a landmark race for Jenson
Button, and he would like nothing better than to get himself back on track with a victory here in his 200th Grand Prix appearance after two recent retirements. The 2009 world champion also has happy memories of the place after scoring his first F1 triumph here in 2006 at the 113th attempt.
Birthday boy Alonso eyes nice surprise in Hungary (Google News July 29, 2011) BUDAPEST - Ferrari's Fernando Alonso
was given a card from reporters and a personal greeting from Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone on his 30th birthday but what the Spaniard really wants is a more exciting Hungarian Grand Prix. The race outside Budapest has a reputation for being a little processional with few overtaking opportunities but the degradation of this year's Pirelli tires as well as KERS and DRS should lead to more passes in Sunday's race. "In Hungary we have seen some boring races in the past. This year this thing cannot happen," Alonso said Friday after finishing second quickest in the second practice behind McLaren's Lewis Hamilton. "We finished the planned work program and that's always a positive start to a race weekend. We saw that McLaren looks very strong, as indeed it was last weekend. Now we must try and improve the car, especially in the third sector of the track, where we seem to be suffering more than most." Ecclestone made a special visit to the Ferrari motor home to Alonso's surprise. "It's nice to celebrate here with Ferrari, a team I will definitely be with at least until I am 35," added the double world champion, fourth in this season's overall standings. "30 is a good number, I like the number. It is also my 30th race for Ferrari so it is a good coincidence."
PICTURE NEWS
SYRIA BULLETIN
Syria opposition rejects foreign help, 23 killed DAMASCUS (Google News ) Opposition figures in Algeria spoke out on Saturday against any foreign intervention as the bloody crackdown on anti-government protests continued and security forces killed at least 23 people and wounded 35 others as hundreds of thousands of demonstrators turned out for anti-regime protests, activists said. Also on Saturday, a man identifying himself as a Syrian army colonel, said he had de-
fected and has “hundreds” of troops under his command ready to confront the regular army in Deir Ezzor. The deaths in the crackdown were reported by two Syrian human rights organisations, one of them also saying that hundreds of people were arrested by security forces in Damascus. “Nineteen martyrs fell on Friday,” the National Organization for Human Rights said. “The Syrian authorities had decided to go ahead and kill
protesters during the day marked by demonstrations dubbed ‘Your silence is killing us’,” it said. The toll included one person killed in Damascus and seven in the region around the capital, including five in Kiswah and two in Douma, said Ammar Qorabi, who heads the human rights group. Another three were killed in Daraa, three more died in the eastern city Deir Ezzor, two others in the nearby town of Bukamal, and one in city of
Latakia. In Algiers, the opposition members refused any foreign intervention in Syria. “We refuse all foreign intervention, we refuse to carry weapons,” said Adnane El Bouch, a Syrian lawyer living in Algeria, during a meeting of a Syrian support committee. In Nicosia, Riad Al Asaad, who identified himself as a colonel who defected from the Syrian army, warned authorities against carrying out any operation in Deir Ezzor.
Armed groups attack law-enforcement members in east Syria: report DAMASCUS (Google News Jul 30, 2011) Armed groups attacked law- enforcement members and a police station in the northeastern city of Deir al-Zour and stole some weapons and ammunitions, the official SANA news agency reported late Saturday. Armed groups cut off and barricaded some roads in the city to terrorize residents, said SANA, adding the law-enforcement members encountered these groups and exchanged gunfire with them. It said law-enforcement members are still hunting these groups down and using the right
methods in dealing with situation there, adding the residents of Deir al-Zour expressed their worries of the groups' acts and stressed their refusal of any acts that would harm the country in general and Deir al-Zour in particular. Meanwhile, the Syria-News, local news website, cited witnesses as saying that the city of Deir al-Zour is witnessing a proliferation of armed men and that the situation is so intense, as the water and electricity were cut off since Friday noon. It said there are large numbers of arrests in the nearby al-Bukmal city as well.
Security forces are conducting a large-scale house raids and arrests especially those whose ages range from 15 to 40, said the report, adding the families there don't know where the detainees are taken to. "There is a shortage of food and the families there are helping one another by exchanging what they have of food and water," The website cited an unnamed journalist in the area as saying. Activists said Deir al-Zour witnessed a large anti-government protest on Friday, as part of other protests that took to streets across the country, to press demands for the downfall of the
leadership. Local Coordination Committees (LCC), which tracks the protests in Syria, said the Syrian army had bombarded al-Jawza neighborhood, west of Deir al-Zour, with artilleries which left many injuries. The city of Deir al-Zour has witnessed a large turnout since the eruption of protests more than four months ago. Activists said the unrest in Syria has claimed the lives of more than 1,400 civilians, while the government disputed the toll, blaming the crisis on armed and extremist groups that aim to sow a sectarian rift in the country.
Editorial: Syrian conundrum
a day of tranquility, has become for Syrians, a day of death — except that every day is now a day of death. In the week between Friday July 22 and Friday 29, at least another 11 civilians were killed. Friday is just an especial day of death. The total figure of civilians killed is now put at over 1,600 and 3,000 are missing. Over 12,500 are in detention. Two days ago, the protesters’ target was not only the government. They railed against “Arab silence” which they say is killing them. They are bitter that the Arab world has not taken a decisive stand on the crisis. They also see themselves ignored by a wider world that was prepared to take action over Libya because of the mass slaughter of civilians there and threats to kill even more but cannot bring itself to do the same over Syria where the same is happening albeit on a lesser scale. Their complaints are understand-
able. But while the protesters have the undoubted support of ordinary Arabs from the Gulf to the Atlantic, as well as of public opinion around the world, Syria is not Libya. With its patchwork of faiths and their impact on the country’s politics, it is a potential tinder box if mishandled — and it would be mishandled because there is no consensus as to what to do. A post-Assad conflagration in which tens of thousands might die, could easily draw in Iran and Israel and certainly impact on Lebanon. Thus, while the international community looks on with horror and utters concern and condemnation, it refrains from taking action on a Libyan scale. It worries what is happening in Syria, but it worries even more about what might come afterward if the government collapses. As a result, the Syrian crisis is left to fester with the infection gradually spreading throughout the
whole body. It looks like a gangrene — incurable and ultimately deadly — but it could be a long while before the end stage is reached. Equally, there is no doubt that the Syrian government has a large body of supporters, although whether they constitute a majority is highly doubtful. A prolonged but ever deepening crisis is the sole prognosis unless the government can manage change. Belatedly it is trying to do just that: The Cabinet has just approved a draft law allowing political parties to form and contest elections. But there is little conviction that the ruling party is willing to share, let alone surrender, power and, given the violence and the number of people killed, it is difficult to imagine the government capable of restoring mass public support for it. As more civilians die, the bitterness is bound to increase.
destroying national institutions and killing citizens. The participants stressed that the practices of criminals who are terrorizing citizens debunk their allegations to be claiming demands. DAMASCUS (Google News Jul 150 Youths from Aleppo to 30, 2011) Activities in support of Damascus to Express Support the comprehensive reform pro- to Reform gram under the leadership of More than 150 youths arrived in DamPresident Bashar al-Assad contin- ascus on Saturday coming from Aleppo on a car parade and a train trip, ued across the country, with the in an expression of support to reform. participants voicing rejection of all Muhammad Deiri and Fatima al-Banforms of vandalism and attempts nawi, organizers of the event, said the to destabilize the country. march is aimed at getting a message In Hasaka, the citizens of al- across to the world, stating that the Shadadeh city and the neighbor- Syrians are united in rejecting all ating villages denounced the tempts of foreign interference in the criminal acts of saboteurs who are Syrian internal affairs.
Aleppo Students Express Appreciation of Russia's Stances before Its Consulate
branches of Syndicates of Doctors, Dentists, Pharmacists and Agricultural Engineers honored 32 families of the martyrs and the injured who were targeted by the armed terrorist groups. Organizers of the initiative said they wanted through the initiative to express their support to the comprehensive reform program and their appreciation of the sacrifices the military and security forces offered for the sake of preserving Syria's stability. They stressed that the doctors are offering free of charge medical services for the martyrs' families. Thousands of Hadar village in Quneitra province hoisted a 7,5 m long, 4,5 m wide flag on a hill, 1650 m above sea level, overlooking the occupied Syrian Golan.
DAMASCUS (Google News Jul 30, 2011) Despite the media blackout and the absence of the international media to report events, the news of yet more protests and deaths in Syria continues to filter through to the outside world. On Friday, tens of thousands of Syrians were reported on the streets of the country’s cities demanding the removal of the government and, according to the opposition, seven civilians were shot dead. These protests now happen every Friday without fail. It is clear that after four months of protest, the unrest shows no sign of abating. On the contrary, it is growing. The previous Friday saw mass demonstrations in almost every city and as many as 32 shot dead. Friday, which should be a day of prayer,
Pro-Reform Activities Continue across Syria
A number of university and institute students in Aleppo held a gathering in front of the Russian Consulate in appreciation of Russia's supportive stances towards Syria. "This activity aims at giving a message of gratitude and appreciation of the Russian stance rejecting foreign interference in Syria's affairs," said Ayman Azizi, one of the organizers. He pointed out that the activity will include refining the forest park opposite to the Consulate and setting up paintings to express thanks to Russia.
Tartous' Doctors, Dentists, Pharmacists and Engineers Honor Martyrs' Families
In the coastal province of Tartous,
Syria ranked second in the 23rd International Olympiad Report: Israel plans to build sepain Informatics ration barrier in Golan (Google News ) Syria Gets Silver Medal in International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI), held in Thailand on July 22-29, for the first time in the history of its participation consecutively. Kinan Sarmini won the silver medal after getting 454 points out of 600 points in the 2-day competitions which included
307contestants from 79 countries. Deputy Head of the Syrian Computer Society (SCS), Jaafar al-Khayyer, told SANA that the Syrian team included three contestants beside Sarmini. Sarmini already won the bronze medal in the 22nd Olympiad competition held last year in Waterloo, Canada.
(Google News July 30, 2011) Israel plans to build a barrier in the Golan Heights to separate the town of Majdal Shams on the Israeli side from the suburb of Al-Oude and Ain Al-Tinah in Syria, the Syrian semi-official SANA news agency reported. According to the report, the cement wall will be four kilometers long and eight meters high. SANA also reported that the wall is expected to be completed in September, before the UN vote on Palestinian statehood.
A Blast targeted Syrian Pipeline (Google News July 23, 2011) SYRIA- Syria State-run TV reported earlier on Friday ”Saboteurs hit an oil pipeline with an explosive device in the Talkalakh town near the Tal Hosh Dam, causing a leak of oil and a 10-meter deep crater. It said the saboteurs aimed to contaminate the dam's water with oil to ruin nearby agricultural crops.” The pipeline carries crude from the oil fields in the oil-rich eastern Deir el-Zour to a refinery in Banias, which is the main point of export for Syrian oil. The country's other refinery is in the central city of Homs. State TV said the blast hit near the western town of Talkalakh between Homs and Tartous, near the Tal Hosh dam, and left a 33 feet deep crater. The TV
said the "terrorist attack sought to cause oil to leak into the dam's waters in order to damage agricultural crops in the area." "At 04:00 am on Friday, some citizens heard an explosion near a pipeline for transporting crude oil to Baniyas", Governor of Homs, Ghassan Abdul-Aal told State-run news agency SANA. Oil Minister Sifian Allaw said 1,500 barrels of crude oil leaked from the struck pipeline into the water behind the dam. He told The Associated Press that the pumping of oil was transferred to another pipeline without interruption in the flow. The oil that gushed into the dam's waters caused a large spill, turning parts of the sur-
face to black. The Minister said work is going on to fix the pipeline and suck up the quantity of oil which gushed into the gap caused by the explosion and spilled into a canal supplying Tal Hosh Dam, with some of it reaching the lake. He noted that pumping through the bombed pipeline stopped immediately and was shifted into another pipeline, stressing that oil supply to the refinery and the port has not been affected and will continue as usual. For his turn, Irrigation Minister George Soumi condemned this terrorist act, saying it proves that the sabotage groups are linked with foreign plots aimed at undermining Syria's national
and pan-Arab stances. Numeir Makhlouf, chairman of the state-owned Syrian Company for Oil Transport, told SANA that the oil had leaked into a main lake that supplies the vast agricultural western area with irrigation water. Homs governor Ghassan Abdel Al called the explosion a "firstclass terrorist" act. Friday's attack came one week after saboteurs caused a passenger train carrying 480 people to derail in Homs, said the state TV. The pipeline blast also was the second incident involving an oil pipeline in a month, and the second time this week that authorities accused saboteurs of striking installations.
The Colonization Martyr’s Day is marked as a public holiday in Guinea-Bissau. There are no real celebrations on this day in the country. It is a day of national grief for the citizens of the nation. People on this day, mourn the Pidjiguiti massacre. They light candles and torch processions are a common feature of this day. In remembrance of the departed souls, they also observe 5 minutes of nationwide silence. On this date, the President of the state delivers a speech, which is telecasted live on a nationwide scale. Here, he passionately remembers the sacrifices of the martyrs of the country and also talks about the economic and military upgrade of Guinea-Bissau. Gradually over the years the people have come to terms to the loss….which still pains.
Homeland Thanksgiving Day CROATIA - August 5
Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian Defenders (Croatian: Dan pobjede i domovinske zahvalnosti i dan hrvatskih branitelja) is a public holiday in Croatia
July 29, 2011.A Pakistani woman receives donated bread at a market
Washington, D.C
Mississippi
the junction on to a short two-way street leading up to the track's entrance. When it comes to capturing and maintaining a coveted slot on the F1 calendar, inevitably all roads lead to Ecclestone's pockets. "It's government or city owned, so it's still slightly Communist," Williams said. "Of course, it's a free society now, but they still have the old ethos of 'that's what we do'." In 2008, a five-year extension was added to the existing deal meaning the Hungaroring will feature on the calendar until at least 2016. Zsolt Gyulay, the president of the National Automobile Sport Federation of Hungary, said earlier this year that 160 million Hungarian forints (Dh3.1m) would be spent renovating the circuit. "It is a great circuit to drive, but personally I don't think that's the reason [it's so enduring]," said Button, who won his first grand prix here in 2006. "It is probably the fans. We have a lot of support here, outside the hotels and in the grandstands. Obviously, it has gone up and down through the years, but generally there has been good support here." Hungary's inaugural race reportedly attracted 200,000 spectators, despite inflated ticket prices. While this year's event - which clashes with the World Rally Championship's Finnish showpiece will undoubtedly see a smaller crowd, a quick glance at the stands yesterday provided proof that popularity remains: flags of Finland, Estonia and Poland were prevalent. "There are probably more Finnish flags and supporters here than any other grand prix," said Heikki Kovalainen of Team Lotus, who, since the retirement of Kimi Raikkonen, is the sole Scandinavian in the paddock. "In that sense, it is kind of like my home race."
SPECIAL FOCUS
TRADITIONS AND ACTIVITIES
The state of Florida observes emancipation in an unofficial commemoration on May 20. In the capital, Tallahassee, Civil War reenactorsplaying the part of Major General Edward McCook and other union soldiers act out the speech General McCook gave from the steps of theKnott House on May 20, 1865. This was the first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in Florida. The municipality of Washington, D.C., celebrates April 16 as Emancipation Day. On that day in 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Compensated Emancipation Act for the release of certain persons held to service or labor in the District of Columbia. The Act freed about 3,100 enslaved persons in the District of Columbia nine months before President Lincoln issued his famous Emancipation Proclamation. TheDistrict of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act represents the only example of compensation by the federal government to former owners of emancipated slaves. On January 4, 2005, Mayor Anthony Williams signed legislation making Emancipation Day an official public holiday in the District. Although Emancipation Day occurs on April 16, by law when April 16 is a Saturday, Emancipation Day is observed on the preceding Friday. Each year, a series of activities will be held during the public holiday including the traditional Emancipation Day parade celebrating the freedom of enslaved persons in the District of Columbia. The Emancipation Day celebration was held yearly from 1866 to 1901, and was resumed as a tradition and historic celebration in 2002 as a direct result of years of research, lobbying and leadership done by Ms. Loretta Carter-Hanes. In 2007, the observance of this holiday in Washington, D.C. had the effect of nationally extending the 2006 income tax filing deadline from April 16 to April 17. The 2007 date change was not discovered until after many forms went to print. In 2011, the tax deadline was extended to Monday, April 18, since the observed date for the holiday was Friday, April 15.
Deak Nagy and Erison Hurtault of France. Double-amputee Oscar Pistorius of South Africa, who runs on carbon-fiber blades and qualified for the able-bodied worlds for the first time earlier this month, was last in the 400 after finishing in 47.47. "This is a really beautiful city and the crowd was really supportive. I'm just sorry I couldn't give them a quicker time," Pistorius said. "I hope to return one day and give them a better race." The tournament was the inaugural edition of the Istvan Gyulai Memorial, commemorating the late Secretary General of the IAAF who died in 2006. He was a sprinter in his youth, winning 28 national championships in Hungary.
Hungary's insatiable appetite for racing
History
France colonized Upper Volta in 1897. They did so as a carve-up of West Africa between Britain and herself. The French captured the country, not for any riches, but as a bridge to link their other territories. The population seemed to the French as a huge labor pool. They never invested in the country. After the world war two, the movement for independence was growing stronger day by day in the West African countries. France recreated Upper Volta in 1947 because she feared the growth of support for the movement in Cote d’lvoire. Eventually the issue of independence was forced in the French parliament in Paris by representation of the French colonies. Thus, each colony was provided its own Government Council. So, in 1958 Maurice Yameogo of the Voltaic Democratic Union was elected as the first president of Upper Volta. After independence, Yameogo tried to reduce the power of the Mossi rulers, but his power was reduced by the poor economy and internal conflicts. In 1965, he was reelected as president. It was quite unsurprising because all the other parties were banned. In 1966, a group of army officers headed by Lt. Col. Sangoulé Lamizana overthrew his government in a bloodless rebellion. He then became the head of the state. In 1983, another movement erupted which carved out the country’s modern identity. Thomas Sankara led it. Sankara was a staunch supporter of women’s equality. He was strongly anti-corruption and ideological. During his rule, female circumcision and prostitution were banned. He was also against polygamy. He introduced a campaign that vaccinated 3 million children against diseases like yellow fever, measles, and meningitis, in only 15 days.
TRADITIONS AND ACTIVITIES
Parents Day is celebrated all over the world. In the same way Parents Day is also celebrated in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. (Sometimes it is referenced as DR Congo.) The day is basically dedicated to the parents. In our fast moving life, this one day makes us relax and think of those people, who give us birth and brings us up to face this challenging world.
HUNGARIAN BULLETIN
ahead of the upcoming Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan in Lahore. Muslims around the world abstain from eating, drinking and conducting sexual relations from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.
July 25, 2011. Libyan women bakers prepare pastry and sweets with the colours of the former Libyan flag used by the July 22, 2011. A giant image of Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi rebels, at a bakery in the Libyan rebel stronghold city of Benghazi. Civil war or not, every year the holy Muslim month of Rais unveiled at the Green Square in central Tripoli. madan must be respected and in Libya's rebel stronghold of Benghazi women bakers are working overtime to meet demand. July 23, 2011.A bone-thin cow passing temporary shelters at Dadaab refugee camp in northern Kenya.
Banner thanking Croatian defenders in Zagreb on 5 August celebration.
which is held as a memorial to its War of Independence, celebrated on August 5. On that date in 1995 the Croatian Army took the city of Knin during Operation Storm, which brought an end to theRepublic of Serbian Krajina, a self-proclaimed Serb entity in Croatia. The main celebration is centered in Knin where there are festivities commemorating the event, beginning with a Mass and laying of wreaths in honor of those who died in the war, and continuing with parades and concerts. The event is attended by thousands of people and the highest powers in Croatia. The Croatian flag on the Knin fortress is ceremonially lifted as part of the celebrations. In 2008, the Parliament also assigned the name Day of the Croatian Defenders (Croatian: Dan hrvatskih branitelja) to the holiday.
July 25, 2011People place roses in front of Oslo's town hall after July 25, 2011. Pakistani shoe maker maker Abdul Hameed, July 24, 2011. People cool themselves in a fountain "Friendship July 28, 2011.A Palestinian man decorates his shop with fes- as many as 150,000 people gathered for a flower vigil in the cap- center, works on a giant shoe at his shop in Lahore. Hameed of Peoples" at the Exhibition Center in Moscow, Russia on Sun- tive lights in the old city of Jerusalem for the upcoming Muslim ital, in a show of solidarity with the victims of recent attacks in Nor- has made a six-foot shoe with gold thread to attract his customers for an upcoming Muslim festival known as 'eid', which day. Temperatures rose to 31 Celsius (88 Fahrenheit) in Moscow. holy fasting month of Ramadan. way usually takes place at the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.