Jennifer L. Dorn, C. Boyden Gray, Richard H. Jones, Francis J. Ricciardone, Jr., Darlene F. Williams

President George W. Bush today announced his intention to nominate five individuals to serve in his Administration:

The President intends to nominate Jennifer L. Dorn, of Nebraska, to be United States Alternate Executive Director of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, for a two-year term. Ms. Dorn currently serves as Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration. She previously served as Senior Vice President of the American National Red Cross. Prior to that, Ms. Dorn was Assistant Secretary for Policy at the Department of Labor. Earlier in her career, she was Associate Deputy Secretary of Transportation at the Department of Transportation. Ms. Dorn received her bachelor's degree from Oregon State University and her master's degree from the University of Connecticut.

The President intends to nominate C. Boyden Gray, of the District of Columbia, to be the Representative of the United States of America to the European Union, with the Rank and Status of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary. Mr. Gray is currently a Partner with Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP in Washington, D.C. He previously served as White House Counsel. Prior to that, Mr. Gray served as Legal Counsel to the Vice President. Earlier in his career, he clerked for the Honorable Earl Warren, Chief Justice, United States Supreme Court. Mr. Gray received his bachelor's degree from Harvard University and his J.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The President intends to nominate Richard H. Jones, of Nebraska, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the State of Israel. A career member of the Senior Foreign Service, Ambassador Jones currently serves as Senior Advisor and Policy Coordinator on Iraq to the Secretary of State. He previously served as Deputy Administrator for the Coalition Provisional Authority in Baghdad, Iraq. Prior to these assignments, he served as U.S. Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the Republic of Lebanon. Ambassador Jones received his bachelor's degree from Harvey Mudd College. He later received his master's degree and PhD from the University of Wisconsin at Madison.

The President intends to nominate Francis J. Ricciardone, Jr., of New Hampshire, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Arab Republic of Egypt. A career member of the Senior Foreign Service, he has recently concluded his service as Chief of Mission in the Philippines and the Republic of Palau. From January until June 2004, Ambassador Ricciardone served as Special Coordinator for the Transition of Iraq, where he helped establish the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq. He previously served as Director of the Task Force on the Global War on Terrorism at the Department of State. Ambassador Ricciardone received his bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College.

The President intends to nominate Darlene F. Williams, of Texas, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (Policy Development and Research). Ms. Williams currently serves as General Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. She previously served as Corporate Policy Manager of TXU, an energy company based in Dallas, Texas. Earlier in her career, Ms. Williams served as Manager of Marketing, Planning and Research for Ryder Systems, Inc. in Miami, Florida. She received her bachelor's degree from Howard University. Ms. Williams also received her master's degree and PhD from Stanford University. She went on to earn a second master's degree from the University of Chicago.

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, July 25, 2005, Personnel Announcement

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Roger P. Winter Special Representative for Sudan

Roger P. Winter Appointed Special Representative for Sudan

The Department of State announces the appointment of Roger P. Winter as Special Representative of the Deputy Secretary of State for Sudan. Mr. Winter’s appointment reflects the high priority this Administration attaches to halting the violence in Darfur and supporting implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) signed January 9. Mr. Winter will be responsible for advancing the achievement of America’s goals for Sudan that were promoted during the Secretary’s visit to Sudan last week and during the Deputy Secretary’s three visits to Khartoum and Darfur in April, June and July.

Since 2001, the United States played a leading role in peace negotiations between the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement to end the North-South civil war that devastated Sudan for two decades. Mr. Winter was a member of the U.S. team that supported Senator Jack Danforth in helping to negotiate the CPA. He has been involved in humanitarian and conflict issues in Sudan for twenty-five years, most recently as Assistant Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development for Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance. In that capacity, he also helped negotiate the April 2004 cease-fire agreement for Darfur, which was an initial first political step toward ending the carnage taking place in that region. Mr. Winter’s long involvement with the parties and familiarity with the events that have occurred in Sudan will enable him to engage with the new Government of National Unity and others to further U.S. diplomacy on Sudan and advise the Secretary and Deputy Secretary on policy related to Darfur and to Sudan.

Source: state.gov 2005/726 Press Statement, Sean McCormack, Spokesman, Washington, DC, July 26, 2005

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Ronald Neumann Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Swearing-in of Ronald Neumann as U.S. Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will preside over the swearing in ceremony for Ronald Neumann as the U.S. Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on Wednesday, July 27, at 4:00 p.m. in the Benjamin Franklin Room. This event is open to press coverage.

Ambassador Neumann served most recently in Baghdad as a senior political-military officer and the U.S. Embassy’s principal interlocutor with the Multinational Command and with the Coalition Provisional Authority (2004-2005). He formerly served as U.S. Ambassador to Bahrain (2001-2004) and as U.S. Ambassador to Algeria (1994-1997).

This event will be open to the press.

Pre-set time for cameras: 3:15 p.m. from the 23rd Street entrance
Pick up time for writers and stills: 3:30 p.m. from the 23rd Street entrance
Final access time for all press: 3:45 p.m. from the 23rd Street entrance

Media representatives may attend this briefing upon presentation of one of the following: (1) a U.S. Government-issued identification card (Department of State, White House, Congress, Department of Defense, or Foreign Press Center), (2) a media-issued photo identification card, or (3) a letter from their employer on letterhead verifying their employment as a journalist, accompanied by an official photo identification (driver’s license or passport).

2005/725 Notice to the Press, Office of the Spokesman, Washington, DC, July 26, 2005

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Cyprus Proliferation Security Initiative

The United States and the Republic of Cyprus Proliferation Security Initiative Ship Boarding Agreement

On Monday, July 25, 2005, the United States and the Republic of Cyprus signed a reciprocal Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) Ship Boarding Agreement. Cypriot Foreign Minister Georgios Iacovou signed the agreement on behalf of Cyprus. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice signed on behalf of the United States.

The Proliferation Security Initiative was announced by President Bush on May 31, 2003, and is aimed at establishing cooperative partnerships worldwide to prevent the flow of weapons of mass destruction, their delivery systems, and related materials to and from states and non-state actors of proliferation concern. Proliferation Security Initiative partners marked the recent second anniversary of the Initiative through a series of activities, including an exercises in the Czech Republic and Spain and an event hosted by Secretary Rice on May 31 for the Washington diplomatic corps.

The ship boarding agreement signed by the U.S. and Cyprus will facilitate cooperation between the two countries to prevent the maritime transfer of proliferation-related shipments by establishing points of contact and procedures to expedite requests to board and search suspect vessels in international waters. If a U.S.- or Cypriot-flagged vessel is suspected of carrying proliferation-related cargo, either Party to this agreement can request the other to confirm the nationality of the ship in question and, if needed, to authorize the boarding, search, and possible detention of the vessel and its cargo. The agreement does not apply to the vessels of third states.

Cyprus is the world’s sixth largest ship registry by gross tonnage and the first European Union member state to sign such an agreement with the U.S. Today’s Proliferation Security Initiative Ship Boarding Agreement is our fifth – following ones with Liberia, Panama, the Marshall Islands and Croatia. The combination of states with which we have boarding agreements and Proliferation Security Initiative partner commitments means that more than 60 percent of the global commercial shipping fleet dead weight tonnage is now subject to rapid action consent procedures for boarding, search, and seizure.

Signing the ship boarding agreement demonstrates the commitment of Cyprus and the United States to ensuring the highest standards of security for their flag registries. This reciprocal agreement also sends a clear message to proliferators that neither the U.S. nor Cyprus will tolerate the involvement of their vessels in the trade of proliferation-related cargoes. We believe that Proliferation Security Initiative ship boarding agreements simultaneously deter proliferators and attract legitimate commercial shipping interests that want to ensure their goods are transported under a reputable and responsible flag, which is not "misused" to transport illicit proliferation-related shipments.

For additional information on the Proliferation Security Initiative, please see state.gov/. 2005/724 Released on July 25, 2005

Source: state.gov Media Note, Office of the Spokesman, Washington, DC, July 25, 2005

more at Cyprus or Condoleezza Rice and Proliferation Security Initiative and State Department or Department of State

Americans with Disabilities Act

Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, 2005, A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

On July 26, 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed into law the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This historic legislation provides a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities. The ADA reflects our Nation's faith in the promise of all individuals and helps to ensure that our Nation's opportunities are more accessible to all.

The ADA has been a great success in expanding opportunity for disabled Americans. By reducing barriers and changing perceptions, the ADA has increased participation in community life and given greater hope to millions of Americans.

Because of the ADA, individuals with disabilities are better able to develop skills for school, work, and independent living. Our Nation has more to do to further the goals of the ADA. Through the New Freedom Initiative, my Administration is building on the progress of the ADA to increase the use of technology and expand educational and employment opportunities. We are promoting the development and dissemination of assistive and universally designed technology. We have launched DisabilityInfo.gov, an online resource of programs and technology relevant to the daily lives of people with disabilities and their families, employers, service providers, and other community members. We also require electronic and information technologies used by the Federal Government to be accessible to people with disabilities. To ensure that no child with a disability is left behind, I have requested $11.1 billion for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in my FY 2006 budget-- $4.7 billion above the FY 2001 level. The Department of Education is seeking new and effective ways for students with disabilities to learn. My Administration is also working to educate employers on ADA requirements and further assisting persons with disabilities by implementing the "Ticket to Work" program and strengthening training and employment services at One-Stop Career Centers. Through all of these efforts, we are helping individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to live and work with greater freedom.

On the 15th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we celebrate the progress that has been made and reaffirm our commitment to fulfilling the ADA's mission of bringing greater hope and opportunity to our Nation's disabled Americans.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 26, 2005, as a day in celebration of the 15th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I call on all Americans to celebrate the many contributions individuals with disabilities have made to our country, and I urge our citizens to fulfill the promise of the ADA to give all people the opportunity to live with dignity, work productively, and achieve their dreams.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-sixth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary July 26, 2005

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Vice President at Dinner for Vito Fossella

Vice President's Remarks at a Dinner for Congressman Vito Fossella
The Excelsior Grand Staten Island, New York 6:40 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT: Thank you. (Applause.) Thank you very much. (Applause.) Thank you all very much.

Well, thank you very much, it's great to be back and to visit Staten Island -- the home of one of America's outstanding congressmen -- (applause) -- and friendly territory for our President, George W. Bush. (Applause.)

I want to thank all of you for coming out today, and, of course, I'm here to join all of you in a tribute to one of our foremost rising stars, if you will, in the U.S. House of Representatives. You know him well, and you know he's a man who comes through time and time again for Staten Island and all of New York.

Some of you may not be aware that I spent 10 years in the U.S. House of Representatives as a congressman. I was the congressman from Wyoming. Wyoming only has one congressman. (Laughter.) It was a small delegation, but it was quality. (Laughter and applause.) And my 10 years of service there taught me to appreciate the qualities of my colleagues and those who were first rate in terms of having good strong convictions, who never forgot where they came from, and who were, in fact, the leaders of the nation. And Vito Fossella is exactly that kind of member. (Applause.)

He's been a leader in the effort to make America safer -- working to improve our homeland security, helping us pass the Patriot Act, and standing 100 percent with the men and women of our United States Armed Forces. (Applause.)

Vito is also one of the most articulate voices in Congress on behalf of a strong, robust economic program, lower taxes and spending discipline, better health care for families and seniors. And above all, he's the kind of Congressman who can make you proud. He knows his district. He fights for your interests and stands up for the values that all of you hold dear. Each and every day, you've got a man on Capitol Hill who puts his heart in the job, who works with both Republicans and Democrats for the good of your district, your state, and our nation. Vito Fossella is simply one of the best, and President Bush and I want to thank you for sending him to Washington to work with us. (Applause.)

These are challenging times for this great country of ours. Those of us in public office have serious responsibilities, and we hold the public trust. When the President and I took office four-and-a-half years ago, we were determined to solve problems, instead of simply pass them on to future generations. Today, the American people can be confident of a better future because of the character and leadership of our President, George W. Bush.

When we took office, the nation's economy was sliding into recession. To get it growing again, we delivered tax relief four times in four years. We doubled the child tax credit, decreased the marriage penalty, cut rates across the board. And we gave small businesses strong incentives to invest, and we phased out the death tax, so families and farmers can leave behind to their families more of what they earned.

These were the right policies for our struggling economy -- and now we are seeing the results. Americans today have more money to spend, to save, and invest, and they are using it to drive this economy forward. The home ownership rate is the highest ever. Interest rates are low. Manufacturing activity is on an upward trend. Productivity is high. We've seen steady job gains for 25 straight months. Since May of '03, this economy has generated 3.7 million new jobs. More Americans are working today than ever before in our history. (Applause.)

At the same time, federal revenues are increasing -- proving once again that lower taxes are an incentive to entrepreneurs to start businesses, to invest in new equipment, and to hire new workers. By the current estimate, the deficit will be $94 billion less than previously projected just a few months ago because we're receiving more revenue as a result of our economic stimulus program, and we're staying well ahead of the pace that we need to stay on in order to cut our deficit in half over the next four years.

To keep the economy on track, we're going to continue to be good stewards of the taxpayers' dollars. For the sake of long-term growth and job creation, we need to make tax relief permanent, and practice fiscal restraint in Washington, D.C. (Applause.)

We'll also keep the economy strong by delivering regulatory relief, an energy strategy that makes America less dependent on foreign energy, and legal reforms that spare honest entrepreneurs from junk lawsuits. One of America's most important institutions is also in need of fundamental reform. The time has come to join together, and to save Social Security for our children and grandchildren. (Applause.)

And to build a stronger, better America for the next generation, all of us who serve the country have a duty to uphold the values that sustain our society -- limited government, personal responsibility, free enterprise, reverence for life, and equal justice under the law. And in this second term, President Bush will continue nominating federal judges who faithfully interpret the law, instead of legislating from the bench. (Applause.)

From the beginning, the President has nominated men and women who meet the highest standards of legal training, temperament, and judgment. He has kept his commitment once again in nominating a man of experience, wisdom, and character, Judge John Roberts, for the Supreme Court of the United States. (Applause.)

Judge Roberts is one of the most distinguished and talented lawyers in the country, and a worthy choice to succeed Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. The product of a small town in Indiana, a man who was a star at Harvard, editor of the Law Review, who clerked for Judge Rehnquist, who served in the Reagan Justice Department and the Reagan White House, and in 41's administration in the Justice Department as the principal deputy solicitor general.

In the weeks ahead, Americans deserve, and Judge Roberts deserves, a process that is honest and nonpartisan. And the Senate has a duty to give this nominee fair treatment, fair hearing, and a fair up or down vote. (Applause.) And I'm sure Chuck Schumer understands the importance of a fair up or down vote. (Laughter and applause.)

In this time of testing for our country, we understand that our greatest responsibility is the active defense of the American people. We know that even though nearly four years have passed since 9/11, we have continuing, urgent duties and responsibilities. That morning in 2001, as all of you here in Staten Island understand so well, changed everything for our country, as we began fighting a new kind of war against determined enemies. The terrorists behind 9/11 have declared their intention to continue to kill great numbers of innocent Americans, and they seek ever more deadly means to do so. This continuing threat demands a comprehensive, effective response to make the nation better able to respond to any future attacks, and to reduce our vulnerability, and, above all, to hunt down the terrorists before they can hit us again.

The war on terror has a home front, and we have taken extraordinary measures to protect the American people and our heartland. Yet for all the increased security, we must realize -- as the 9/11 Commission put it -- that America is safer, but we are not yet safe. The enemy is wounded, off-balance, and on the run, yet still very active, still seeking recruits, still trying to hit us. Since 9/11 they have continued to kill -- in Casablanca, Mombassa, Jakarta, Bali, Riyadh, Istanbul, Baghdad, Madrid, most recently, of course, in Egypt and in London. Killers who target innocent, unsuspecting men, women, and children during a morning rush hour, or who fly passenger jets into buildings, are not the kind of people you can bring to the bargaining table and sit down for a reasonable exchange of ideas. Our only option against these enemies is to find them, to fight them, and to destroy them. (Applause.)

In these 46 months, we have been unrelenting in the effort to defend the freedom and the security of the American people. We continue to make progress on many fronts -- financial, legal, military, as well as others. We are dealing with a network that has had cells in countries all over the world -- yet bit by bit, through diplomacy and by force, with our allies and partners, we are acting to shrink the area in which they can safely operate. Many countries have joined us in tracking the enemy, disrupting plots against America and our friends, destroying the training camps of terror, and closing off their access to funding. We removed two brutal regimes in Iraq and Afghanistan. We persuaded another regime, Libya, to voluntarily abandon its weapons of mass destruction program aimed at developing nuclear weapons. We've uncovered a sophisticated, large-scale network selling nuclear weapons technology on the black market, and shut down that network, as well. The U.S. has acted decisively, and we have sent a clear message: We will not stand by and allow terrorists to find safe haven, or to gain weapons of mass destruction. (Applause.)

There is still hard work ahead -- and the world is counting on the United States for leadership. We have no illusions about the difficulty of engaging enemies that dwell in the shadows and recognize neither the laws of warfare nor the standards of morality. We cannot predict the length or the course of the war on terror. Yet we know with certainty that with good allies at our side, this nation will persevere, and we will prevail. (Applause.)

Overcoming threats is only the beginning of America's responsibilities. In the broader Middle East, we are encouraging free markets, democracy, and tolerance -- because these are the ideas and the aspirations that overcome violence, and turn societies to the pursuit of peace. Like other great duties in history, it will require decades of patient effort, and it will be resisted by those whose only hope for power is the spread of fear, and intimidation and violence.

Yet the direction of events is clear. Afghanistan has held the first free elections in the nation's 5,000-year history. In Iraq, voters turned out in incredible numbers and elected leaders who are now preparing the way for a new constitution and representative government. The Palestinian people have chosen a new president and have new hopes for democracy and peace. The citizens of Ukraine have stood strongly for their democratic rights, and chosen a new leader for their country. And in Lebanon, citizens have poured into the streets to demand freedom to determine a peaceful future for their own country as a fully independent member of the world community. We are seeing the power of freedom to change the world, and all who strive for freedom can know that the United States of America is on their side. (Applause.)

We know from history that the technology of warfare is always changing, and in our own time that technology is more deadly than ever. Yet our most basic military asset has not changed in the slightest. No matter how complicated war might be, it always comes down to the ones who man the aircraft and the ships, and carry the rifles. The men and women of our Armed Forces reflect extraordinary credit upon the United States of America. And as a former Secretary of Defense, I can say to all of you: The cause of freedom is in very good hands. (Applause.)

President Bush and I recognize that the American people have entrusted us with great responsibilities at an historic moment for this nation. We've set big goals. They're not always easy to achieve -- if they were, somebody would have done them already. But it's more than worth the effort. And when future generations look back on our time, they will know that we met our moment with courage and clear thinking. And they will know that America became a better, stronger, more prosperous, and more secure nation because George Bush was President of these United States. (Applause.)

We're going to continue making progress for the American people, and in that work we could not ask for a better partner than Congressman Vito Fossella. (Applause.) Once again, I want to thank all of you for your commitment to the cause we share, and for electing Vito to Congress. Every time you vote for this man, you're voting for a better America, and for a strong, effective, patriotic Congressman who never forgets who sent him to Washington. The President and I look forward to working with Vito for a good many years to come.

Thank you very much.

END 7:00 P.M. EDT For Immediate Release Office of the Vice President July 25, 2005

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Wanted Person London Bombings

Press Conference 25th July 2005 14:50

DAC Peter Clarke, MPS Anti-Terrorist Branch, delivered this statement at a news conference this afternoon:

"A few days ago we made a public appeal. The appeal was for help in identifying the four men we needed to urgently trace in connection with the attempts to set off four bombs on the transport system in London, last Thursday the 21st July.

We still want to question them about the incidents at the Oval, Shepherd's Bush and Warren Street underground stations, and on a Route 26 bus in Hackney Road, at the junction with Colombia Road.

I can tell you that since Thursday there have been developments in the investigation.

I hope that by setting out some of what we have been able to learn over the past few days, the public may be able to contribute even more to the progress of the investigation.

Three of the men we wish to trace all entered Stockwell underground station just before 12.25pm, last Thursday, 21st July 2005.

The first man got onto a Northern line northbound train and shortly afterwards attempted to set off a bomb between Stockwell and Oval stations. The train stopped at Oval station and he was then chased from the station by extraordinarily brave members of the public who tried to detain him. He left the Oval station at about 12.35pm and ran along Brixton Road, towards Brixton. He went into Normandy Road, Cowley Road, Gosling Way, where at the junction with Mostyn Gardens, he threw away his top with the New York logo. He then went into Cancell Road, Frederick Crescent and Langton Road. He was last seen at a quarter to one in Tindall Street.

The second man also went into Stockwell underground station. He was seen walking towards the platforms. We know that at 12.53 he got on a number 26 Bus in the Bank area of the City. He was carrying a grey & black rucksack and sat on a seat towards the back of the bus with the bag next to him. He too tried to set off a bomb. He got off the bus in Hackney Road at about five past one.

We now believe the man on the bus who attempted to set off the bomb to be:

Muktar SAID-IBRAHIM, also known as Muktar Mohammed-Said. We believe he was associated with, and has recently visited, 58 Curtis House in Ladderswood Way, London, N11. He is 27 years old and today I am also releasing another photograph of this man.

As I speak we are currently searching a number of addresses in London including 58 Curtis House.

A third man entered Stockwell underground station at the same time as the others with a small purple rucksack. He tried to set off a bomb on a northbound Victoria line train between Oxford Circus and Warren Street underground stations. Shortly afterwards, at about 12.40pm he was seen without the rucksack in Warren Street station. He then left the booking hall by vaulting over the ticket barrier and running towards the exit. We believe this man to be Yasin Hassan OMAR. He is 24 years-old.

A fourth man involved in this series of attacks entered Westbourne Park underground station just after 12.20pm last Thursday. He was wearing a dark blue baseball cap and carrying a small rucksack. He then got on a train travelling towards Shepherds Bush. A short while later he too tried to set off a bomb. He then got off the train, probably by climbing through a window at the end of the carriage. He then made his way along the track for about two to three hundred yards, before climbing down into back gardens and making good his escape. He went along McFarlane Road, past the BBC building in Wood Lane, and was last seen running under the A40.

Initial forensic examination of the four partially detonated devices has revealed clear similarities with yet another bomb which was found by a member of the public on Saturday 23rd July. This had apparently been abandoned in an open area at Little Wormwood Scrubs, in west London.

All five of these bombs had been placed inside dark coloured rucksacks or sports bags. All of them were made using the same type of plastic food storage container. These were manufactured in India, and are exported through one company into this country and then sold in approximately 100 outlets across the United Kingdom. The type we are interested in is this six and a quarter litre sized container with a white plastic lid. It has a label describing it as a "Delta 6250 with Lid", and also has another coloured label with the description "Family Containers, Delta, Superior Quality." Please note that we are only interested in the white lid variety. They are also produced in other colours.

My appeal is to any shop keepers and shop workers who may have sold five or more of these identical food containers in recent months, perhaps to the same customer. Do you remember selling a number of these white topped containers at the same time? Do you remember selling them to men you perhaps recognise from the CCTV images we have released?

I would appeal to anyone who has information about where these men currently are should immediately call 999 for an emergency urgent police response. The public should not approach them.

Anyone who believes they know the identities of these men, or has any other information about them or their movements should contact the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321."

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Source: police.uk/ more at London or London Explosion or London bombing and London bomb

Discovery Cruises Through Flight Milestones

Like 3-2-1, orbiter Discovery has successfully shed its Solid Rocket Boosters and External Tank, and shut down the main engines after reaching space. Watch Discovery Launch Discovery Launches! Space Shuttle Discovery successfully lifts off from Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center, Fla.

STS-114, Space Shuttle Discovery Live streaming video of launch and mission coverage. FULL STREAMING VIDEO NASA TV

Solid Rocket Booster separation was triggered 2-minutes and 5-seconds into the flight after burnout of the putty-like fuel packed inside each rocket. The firing of explosive bolts freed the twin boosters from the side of the External Tank, allowing them to peel away from the Space Shuttle. Parachutes were then automatically deployed from the boosters, allowing them to slowly descend into the Atlantic Ocean where they will be towed back to shore.

Discovery initiated the command for Main Engine Cutoff, or MECO, at the 8-minute, 23-second mark. MECO shuts down the orbiter's three powerful engines in the rear of Discovery after completing the "uphill" climb into space.

With the ascent into space complete and fuel onboard the External Tank exhausted, Discovery jettisoned the orange canister. Following jettison, Discovery used it's new belly-mounted digital camera to take pictures of the tank as it fell back into Earth's atmosphere.

Source: NASA

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President appoints Michele A. Davis

President George W. Bush today announced the appointment of Michele A. Davis as Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications and Global Outreach.

Previously, Ms. Davis was Senior Vice President for Regulatory Policy at Fannie Mae. In 2001 and 2002, Ms. Davis was Assistant Secretary (Public Affairs) at the Department of the Treasury. Prior to working for the Treasury Department, Ms. Davis worked as Press Secretary and Communications Director for House Majority Leader Dick Armey.

Ms. Davis received her bachelor's degree from Georgetown University and a master's degree in economics from American University.

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, July 25, 2005, Personnel Announcement

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President Signs Egyptian Condolence Book

President Visits Egyptian Embassy, Signs Condolence Book, Egyptian Embassy, Washington, D.C. 11:52 A.M. EDT

PRESIDENT BUSH: Mr. Ambassador, thank you very much for having us. Laura and I have come to your embassy to express our heart-felt sympathies for those who have lost their lives, and our strong determination to stand with the government of Egypt and the people of Egypt in rejecting this kind of violence and terror.

The people who struck in Sharm el-Sheikh killed Muslims, innocent mothers and dads, people who were trying to make a living. They have no heart, they have no conscience, and they have no ideology that is hopeful. And they have an ideology of hate.

It was my honor to speak to your President, President Mubarak, and again reiterate my country's strong desire to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the people of Egypt and bring justice to those who killed innocent people.

Thank you for letting us come by.

AMBASSADOR FAHMY: Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Mrs. Bush. I want to thank you both very much and very sincerely for coming here this morning to share with us in this moment of remembrance to the people who have lost their lives -- Egyptians, foreigners -- at Sharm el-Sheikh over the weekend. I think your presence here, your phone call to the President over the weekend, and also the many Americans who have been in touch with our embassy, and in Cairo, reflect the nature of the relationship that we have together, as two countries working hand-in-hand for peace and stability in the region, working against terrorism.

As you are well aware, we were the targets of terrorism years ago, as you were on 9/11. And we continue to work together, resolute, to deal with this scourge, and ultimately, hopefully to develop in the Middle East an Egypt that is prosperous, stable and secure for all.

I'd like to see this occasion to thank you both, and through you, all of the American people, and to reaffirm our determination to continue to pursue terrorism without equivocation and determination and resolve. Thank you, sir.

END 11:55 A.M. EDT For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, July 25, 2005 more at President Bush or Egypt or Sharm el Sheikh and Current events

Launch of Space Shuttle Discovery 07/25/05

Launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on NASA's Return to Flight mission is still on track for Tuesday at 10:39 a.m., NASA Test Director Pete Nickolenko announced during a morning briefing at Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Download Full High Kesolution Image "Our teams have worked hard to prepare Space Shuttle Discovery and her crew for launch," Nickolenko said.

According to International Space Station Mission Manager Scott Higginbotham, the hardware in Discovery's payload bay is ready for mission STS-114. At Launch Pad 39B, rollback of the Rotating Service Structure is set for 1:30 p.m. today, followed by the completion of pad closeouts.

NASA will keep a wary eye on the weather throughout the countdown.

"We are still concerned that right around the launch time, the sea breeze will be developing, and some off-shore activity could bring in some anvil clouds and some showers or cumulous clouds in the area of the launch pad or the [Shuttle Landing Facility]," said Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters. The chance of Kennedy weather cooperating for the launch remains at 60 percent.

Flight systems and ground support hardware are ready and the flight crew and support teams are eagerly looking forward to a successful launch on Tuesday at 10:39 a.m. EDT.

STS-114, Space Shuttle Discovery. live streaming video of launch and mission coverage. FULL STREAMING VIDEO NASA TV

more at Space Shuttle and Discovery or nasa and Space Shuttle Discovery or sts-114

London Police make a further arrest

Police make a further arrest

Commissioner Sir Ian Blair has expressed "deep regret" at the shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes, calling his death "a tragedy".

The investigation into the incidents of 21 July is continuing. Detectives arrested a further man on Saturday night in Tulse Hill, south London on suspicion of the commission, instigation or preparation of acts of terrorism under the Terrorism Act 2000. He remains in a central London police station where he is being questioned.

Sir Ian said: "the main investigation is proceeding at an extraordinary pace. It is the largest investigation that the Metropolitan Police has ever undertaken and it's incredibly fast moving". He remains "very confident".

On Sunday, further warrants of detention were granted in relation to two men arrested in the Stockwell area on 22 July under the Terrorism Act 2000 on suspicion of the commission, instigation or preparation of acts of terrorism. The warrants allow the men to be detained until 27 July.

Yesterday morning officers carried out a number of controlled explosions on the suspicious package found by a member of the public in NW10. Searches continue and cordons remain in place.

Over 500 calls were made to the Anti-Terrorist Hotline, 0800 789 321, in the 24 hours after CCTV images were released on Friday, and more than 80 emails with information and images were received at www.police.uk .

Assistant Commissioner Andy Hayman, Specialist Operations, said: "The responsible attitude shown by the public in providing us with information is extremely encouraging.

"We are still keen to hear from as many people as possible who have information about these suspects. Do you know them? Do you recognise them? Have you seen them anywhere, either on the day of the attacks, or before, or since?

"I would remind everyone that these men should not be approached - if you see them, please call 999.

"Any other information can be given to the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321. Tell us what you know, and let us take responsibility for deciding if it is relevant. I would urge you to store this number in your mobile phone and if you see or hear anything you think is suspicious, please use it."

Source: Metropolitan Police Service Bulletin 0000000234 25 July 2005

more at London or London Explosion or London bombing and London bomb or London Bombings

Prehistoric Native Americans maize cultivation

Prehistoric decline of freshwater mussels tied to large-scale maize cultivation

USDA Forest Service (FS) research suggests that a decline in the abundance of freshwater mussels about 1000 years ago may have been caused by the large-scale cultivation of maize by Native Americans.

In the April 2005 issue of Conservation Biology, Wendell Haag and Mel Warren, researchers with the FS Southern Research Station (SRS) unit in Oxford, MS, report results from a study of archaeological data from 27 prehistoric sites in the southeastern United States that shows how the erosion and sediment associated with agriculture affect freshwater mussel populations.

Worldwide, freshwater mussels have proven to be highly susceptible to human-caused disturbance, and represent the most endangered group of organisms in North America. Of 297 species found in the United States, 269 freshwater mussel species are found in the Southeast.

"We can tie declines of specific mussel populations to the construction of dams, stream channelization, or pollution from a specific source," says Haag, "but the worldwide patterns of decline in these animals implies that larger-scale disturbances such as sedimentation and nonpoint-source pollution may have an equal impact."

Among freshwater mussels, members of the genus Epioblasma -- commonly called riffleshell -- are the most endangered. Epioblasma consists of 20 species and eight subspecies; at least 13 of these species and four subspecies are presumed extinct. Of the remaining, the snuffbox mussel (Epioblasma triquetra) is the only species not listed on the Federal endangered list.

"Human population in the Southeast began to increase steadily about 5000 years ago," says Warren. "With increasing population came land disturbance from agriculture. This intensified about 1000 years ago, with the beginning of large-scale maize cultivation. No one has really tried to look at how this change in land use impacted water quality and aquatic organisms such as freshwater mussels."

Working with Evan Peacock from the Cobb Institute of Archaeology at Mississippi State University, Warren and Haag used survey data from prehistoric shell middens -- refuse heaps of shells discarded after eating -- to examine differences in the abundance of Epioblasma species before and after maize cultivation started in the Southeast. They compiled data from both published and unpublished archaeological reports from 27 different sites along 12 rivers in the Southeast.

"As far as we can tell, Native Americans harvested mussels without preference for species," says Haag. "Shell middens provide us with a way to establish the range of freshwater mussel species before human impacts, and to chart changes in relative abundance as impacts increased."

The researchers found that the relative abundance of riffleshell mussels in the rivers they studied declined gradually during the period between 5000 and 1000 years ago; however, the decline accelerated markedly during the period between 1000 and 500 years ago, when thousands of acres of land were cleared for farming.

"We know that freshwater mussels are very sensitive to stream alterations," says Warren. "Although we cannot entirely rule out the influence of long-term changes in climate, the dramatic changes in land use in this period provide a compelling explanation for the changes in mussel abundance we found."

Today, none of the riffleshell species the researchers found in ancient middens survive at the study sites, where they were gathered by Native Americans over the millennia before European settlement. Most are extinct as a result of modern land disturbances.

"Our results from prehistory support the notion that increases in human activities such as land clearing have measurable effects on freshwater mussel communities," says Haag, "and that prehistoric human activities put pressures on aquatic ecosystems that were similar to -- though certainly less acute than -- present-day activities." ###

Contact: Wendell Haag mailto:whaag@fs.fed.us 662-234-2744 x245 Southern Research Station - USDA Forest Service

more at Prehistoric or Native Americans and Archaeology

Ancient Greeks and modern science fiction

Research to investigate links between Ancient Greeks and modern science fiction

New research into the Ancient Greeks shows their knowledge of travel inspired early forms of fantasy and science fiction writing

New research into the Ancient Greeks shows their knowledge of travel inspired early forms of fantasy and science fiction writing.

There is a long tradition of fantasy in Greek literature that begins with Odysseus' fantastic travels in Homer's Odyssey. Dr Karen Ni-Mheallaigh, at the University of Liverpool's School of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology, is exploring fantasy in ancient literature, examining theories of modern science fiction writing and how these can be applied to texts from the ancient world.

Dr Ni-Mheallaigh is looking at the work of 2nd century AD writer, Lucian of Samosata, who wrote True Histories, a travel narrative that includes an account of a trip to the moon and interstellar warfare. Antihanes of Berge - who wrote about his travels in the far north of Europe, where it was so cold that conversations 'froze in the air,' - will also be examined, as well as the writer Herodotus who wrote about 'flying snakes; and 'giant gold-digging ants' in India.

Dr Ni-Mheallaigh explains: "Fantasy writing in the ancient world is still relatively unexplored from a literary perspective. What is so interesting about these fantastical journeys is that many of them are written in the form of truthful travel logs and historical texts. The Greeks had a fascination with the exotic and other worlds and some writers travelled to the north and Far East to satisfy their intrigue. The cultures they found there were so different from their own that they were inspired to fantasize and speculate about even more remote and exotic worlds.

"The Greeks seemed to have had an anxiety about writing pure fiction, and so writers who were notorious for their 'tall' tales – such as Ctesias, Antiphanes and Megathenes - would write about their adventures in the form of travel logs, or back up their findings with pseudo-documentary evidence, such as 'rediscovered' texts or invented inscriptions.

"It was Lucian who was the first to admit that everything he wrote was untrue and could never occur. His writing-style is however calculated to convince his reader that all his adventures are in fact true. His writing plays a very clever game with the reader's mind, and, like all science fiction and fantasy writing today, allows the reader to ponder, what if…? ###

Dr Ni-Mheallaigh's findings will be published in 2006.

Contact: Samantha Martin mailto:samantha.martin@liv.ac.uk44-1-51-794-2248 University of Liverpool

more at science fiction or Ancient Greeks and Lucian

Statement on H.R. 1001

Statement on H.R. 1001, Designating the "Sergeant Byron W. Norwood Post Office Building"

STATEMENT BY THE PRESS SECRETARY

On Thursday, July 21, 2005, the President signed into law:

H.R. 1001, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located in Pflugerville, Texas, as the "Sergeant Byron W. Norwood Post Office Building."

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, July 21, 2005

more at H.R. 1001 or President Bush

Reauthorize Provisions of the Patriot Act

President Commends House Vote to Reauthorize Provisions of the Patriot Act

I commend the House for voting to reauthorize provisions of the Patriot Act that are set to expire this year. The Patriot Act has enhanced information sharing between law enforcement and intelligence personnel, updated the law to adapt to changes in technology, and provided critical tools to investigate terrorists that have been used for years in cases against organized crime and drug dealers. The Patriot Act is a key part of our efforts to combat terrorism and protect the American people, and the Congress needs to send me a bill soon that renews the Act without weakening our ability to fight terror.

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, July 21, 2005

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Return to Flight Launch Countdown 07/24/05

Return to Flight Launch Countdown Begins Again Saturday

live streaming of launch and mission coverage. FULL STREAMING VIDEO NASA TV 1

live streaming of launch and mission coverage. FULL STREAMING VIDEO NASA TV 2

For NASA TV schedules, viewing and information on the Web, visit: nasa.gov/ntv

NASA will begin the countdown for the second Return to Flight launch attempt of Space Shuttle Discovery at noon EDT, July 23, 70 hours before the targeted liftoff. On mission STS-114, Discovery's seven-member crew will test new equipment and procedures to increase the safety of the Space Shuttle and deliver supplies to the International Space Station.

NASA's Kennedy Space Center (KSC) launch team will conduct the countdown from Firing Room 3 of the Launch Control Center. The countdown includes nearly 28 hours of built-in hold time, leading to a preferred launch time at about 10:39 a.m. EDT July 26. The launch opportunity lasts for about five minutes.

This mission is the 114th Shuttle flight and 17th U.S. flight to the Station. The 12-day mission has a planned KSC landing at approximately 5:46 a.m. EDT, Aug. 7. For detailed information about NASA's Return to Flight visit: http://www.nasa.gov/returntoflight

COUNTDOWN MILESTONES (ALL TIMES EDT and SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

Launch-3 Days (Saturday, July 23): Countdown begins at the T-43 hours (12:20 p.m.)

Launch-2 Days (Sunday, July 24)
Complete preparation to load power-reactant storage and distribution system (3 a.m.); activate and test navigational systems; flight deck preliminary inspections complete (4 a.m.).
Enter first built-in hold at T-27 hours for four hours (4 a.m.).
Resume countdown (8 a.m.); begin operations to load cryogenic reactants into Discovery's fuel cell storage tanks (9:30 p.m.).
Enter 4-hour built-in hold at T-19 hours (4 p.m.).
Resume countdown (8 p.m.).

Launch-1 Day (Monday, July 25)
Pad sound suppression system water tank filling complete (12 a.m.).
Enter planned hold at T-11 hours for 13 hours, 44 minutes (4 a.m.); begin star tracker functional checks (4:50 a.m.); move Rotating Service Structure

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President Bush to nominate three and appoint one

President George W. Bush today announced his intention to nominate three individuals and appoint one individual to serve in his Administration:

The President intends to nominate Roel C. Campos, of Texas, to be a Member of the Securities and Exchange Commission for the remainder of a five-year term expiring June 5, 2010. Mr. Campos has served as a Member of the Securities and Exchange Commission since 2002. Prior to serving on the Commission, he was Senior Vice President and General Counsel of El Dorado Communications, Inc. in Houston, Texas. Earlier in his career, Mr. Campos served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the District of California. He also practiced corporate, securities and banking law in California. Mr. Campos received his bachelor's degree from the U.S. Air Force Academy, his master's degree from the University of California at Los Angeles, and his J.D. from Harvard University.

The President intends to nominate Martin J. Gruenberg, of Maryland, to be a Member and Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, for the remainder of a six-year term expiring December 27, 2006. Mr. Gruenberg currently serves as Senior Democratic Counsel for the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs. He previously served as Staff Director of the Subcommittee on International Finance and Monetary Policy of the Senate Banking Committee. Earlier in his career, Mr. Gruenberg was a Professional Staff Member for the Subcommittee on Economic Stabilization for the House Committee on Banking, Finance and Urban Affairs. He received his bachelor's degree from Princeton University and his J.D. from Case Western Reserve Law School.

The President intends to nominate Annette L. Nazareth, of the District of Columbia, to be a Member of the Securities and Exchange Commission, for the remainder of a five-year term expiring June 5, 2007. Ms. Nazareth currently serves as Director of the Division of Market Regulation for the Securities and Exchange Commission. She previously served as Senior Counsel to the Chairman. Prior to her work on the Commission, Ms. Nazareth served as Managing Director of Salomon Smith Barney. Earlier in her career, she was Senior Vice President of Lehman Brothers, Inc. Ms. Nazareth received her bachelor's degree from Brown University and her J.D. from Columbia University School of Law.

The President intends to appoint Christian Israel, of Virginia, to be Coordinator for International Intellectual Property Enforcement at the Department of Commerce. Mr. Israel currently serves as Deputy Chief of Staff at the Department of Commerce. He previously served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy. Prior to joining the Department of Commerce, Mr. Israel was Deputy Director of International Public Policy for Time Warner, Inc. He received his bachelor's degree from the University of Kansas and his master's degree from The George Washington University.

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, July 22, 2005 Personnel Announcement

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US Coordinates with UK on Counterterrorism

United States Coordinates with United Kingdom on Counterterrorism, FBI, others working closely with British authorities, White House says

By Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr., Washington File Staff Writer

Washington -- U.S. federal agents are working with British authorities as they deal with a continuing terrorist threat to London rail and bus passengers, a White House spokesman said July 22.

"The president ... received a couple of updates this morning: one earlier this morning and then one toward the end of his usual briefing this morning about the latest developments in London and the situation there," presidential spokesman Scott McClellan said.

On July 21, explosions struck the London subway system and a red double-decker bus at midday, but only one person was injured in what was characterized as a failed attempt to carry out a series of suicide bombings like those that occurred in London on July 7. In that attack, over 50 people were killed, including four terrorists, and nearly 700 were wounded, according to British authorities.

And on July 22, a man was shot by British police during a chase into one of the London subway stations, related to the attempted attacks the day before, authorities told the news media.

FBI officials and others "are working in close coordination with British authorities," McClellan said.

Francis Townsend, the president's homeland security adviser, has been in close contact with her counterpart in London, he said, and she has also kept the president informed of events in London.

"We continue to assist in any way that we can . . .. U.S. authorities have been providing assistance since the attacks of two weeks ago, and we continue to offer whatever help we can as they move forward on investigating these incidents," he said.

During a trip to Atlanta, Bush said "the people of Great Britain must understand how strongly America stands with them during these trying times. I'm confident, like our country, the citizens of that country will not be intimidated by thugs and assassins."

"We're not going to let anybody frighten us from our great love of freedom," the president said.

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, speaking in Israel July 21, expressed confidence that Londoners would stand strong in the face of terrorism.

"The British people have impressed everyone with their strength and resolve and I am certain they will continue to do the same," she said.

At the State Department daily briefing July 21, deputy spokesman Adam Ereli said his reaction to hearing the news of the bombings was “shock, outrage, horror at yet another senseless and evil act.” Americans “stand with our British friends and allies in response to this act. We will stand with them and work with them in dealing with this tragedy as we have in past tragedies," he said.

At the same time, U.S. homeland security officials said they have been reviewing terrorist threat levels almost daily since the July 7 terrorist bombing attacks in central London.

"Certainly, as we look at the threat level, we will factor in the information and intelligence we're receiving from the U.K., as well as information we're getting from other sources, as we consider what the right protective measures are," said Brian Besanceney, homeland security assistant secretary for public affairs, July 22.

The United States raised its threat alert level to orange, or "high" risk, on July 7 for all U.S. mass transit systems in direct response to the London suicide bombings. The rest of the United States remains at yellow, or "elevated" risk.

McClellan said July 21 "there is no plan at this time to change the alert level for our mass transit systems."

As a result of the threat-level changes and continuing threats in London, local U.S. law enforcement and transit police have been conducting increased patrols of subway, commuter rail and bus systems; heightened inspection and surveillance around transit facilities; and increased use of bomb-sniffing dogs.

New York transit officers began random searches of bags and packages brought into the city's vast subway system after the latest attempted bombings in London.

In Washington and outlying areas, Metro subway and bus system officials said its subway trains and buses are running normally, but on heightened alert. Increased police and security presence was seen on rail platforms and near bus exchanges throughout the Washington area.

Source: usinfo.state.gov more at London or London Explosion or London bombing and London bomb or london shooting

Iraqi, American Women Discuss Constitution, Women's Rights

Iraqi, American Women Discuss Constitution, Women's Rights, Iraqi minister for women's affairs attends women's forum on new constitution

By Brittany Sterrett, Washington File Staff Writer

Washington -- Iraqi women often see themselves as inferior to men, and that is an attitude that needs to change, according to the Iraqi Minister of State for Women’s Affairs Azhar Abdul Karim al-Shakly.

“How can we convince women and make them think they’re not inferior to men?” asked al-Shakly during a July 20 discussion about the Iraqi constitution and women’s rights at Washington’s Independent Women’s Forum. “All the assistance in the world will not help if we don’t help ourselves.”

A delegation from Iraq that included members of Iraq’s Constitutional Committee, Iraqi women legal experts and women’s rights advocates was also present. A U.S. delegation included State Department officials as well as lawyers and women’s rights activists.

Zainab al-Suwali, the executive director of the American Islamic Congress; Carole Basri, adjunct professor of corporate law at the University of Pennsylvania School of Law; Lisa Davis, Deputy Director for Programs and Director of the RIGHTS Program at Freedom House; and Mary Larkin, Director of International Programs at Street Law Inc., spoke to the delegations about how to incorporate women’s rights into the constitution and how to ensure that the rights are protected.

Basri explained the importance of focusing on checks and balances in the constitution. Individual rights for everyone must be protected, she said, in order to avoid a “slippery slope” that could lead to a loss of rights for many.

She also emphasized the importance of women’s values being a part of the new society. “Women often don’t consider themselves part of the establishment,” she said, adding that they are thus less likely to take bribes. Therefore, Basri felt, in order to minimize corruption in the government, women must be integrated.

Additionally, she said, women’s values are key to a strong civil society. “Women have a special place in keeping certain values,” such as familial ones necessary for creating a civil society, she stated.

Larkin pointed out the progress made through continual amendments to the U.S. Constitution, stating that if it had stayed in its original form, she, as a black woman, would not have been there to speak. “The strength of the constitution may not always be in the first document,” she said. Instead, strength comes from the fact that it “lives,” “grows,” and “you can change it.” She emphasized the value of freedom of expression to allow for such growth and change.

Larkin encouraged women to be at the forefront of the fight for rights but not to stand alone. Instead, she said, women should work with minorities and make sure that everyone in the state is guaranteed an education—a valuable tool that promotes understanding and tolerance. She added, “Fight to win and protect yourself in case you don’t.”

The Iraqi Assembly has until August 15 to draft a constitution. On October 15, a national referendum will determine the fate of the proposed document. Minister al-Shakly stated that she feels confident women will advance because “we have a strong will to change.”

Source: state.gov more at iraqi constitution or Iraq and Middle East or Women/'s Rights

H.R. 3377

Statement on H.R. 3377, the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2005, Part IV

On July 22, 2005, the President signed the following bill into law:

H.R. 3377, the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2005, Part IV, which extends highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, transit, and other programs funded out of the Highway Trust Fund.

# # # more at H.R. 3377 President Bush

End the Repression in Cuba

End the Repression in Cuba

Yesterday, July 22, the Cuban government arrested Rene Gomez Manzano and detained at least a dozen members of the Asamblea para Promover la Sociedad Civil (Asamblea), including Marta Beatriz Roque, the group’s president. Their only crime was attempting to exercise their basic human rights and freedoms.

There are also credible reports that the homes of dozens of activists were surrounded by government-sponsored mobs, which used threats and intimidation to prevent members of the Asamblea from joining their colleagues in a peaceful demonstration. Cuban state security officials warned these activists to stay inside and not to leave their homes.

We call on the Cuban government to end this deplorable repression and immediately free all of those arrested. We urge other countries to join us in condemning these acts.

Source: state.gov ### 2004/723 Press Statement, Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman, Washington, DC, July 23, 2005

more at Cuba or Rene Gomez Manzano and Marta Beatriz Roque and State Department or Department of State

Most Wanted for London Incidents 21/07/05

Most Wanted for London Incidents 21/07/05

Last Seen: // Images and Most Wanted Poster In PDF Format

If you see these men you should immediately call 999 and ask for urgent Police response. The public are asked not to approach them.

If anyone knows they believe the identities of these men, or has other information about them or their movements, they should contact the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.

Assistant Commissioner Andy Hayman appeals to the public:

- Do you recognise any of these men?

- Did you see them at the three underground stations or on the bus?

- Did you see them at a different location?

- Did you see these men together before or after the incidents?

- Did you see them with anyone else?

Source: police.uk/ more at London or London Explosion or London bombing and London bomb

Sharm el Sheikh Bombings

Sharm el Sheikh Bombings

I condemn the horrific terrorist bombings in Sharm el Sheikh. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and innocent victims from many nations who suffered in this senseless attack.

I have spoken with Foreign Minister Aboul Gheit. At this difficult time of testing, the United States stands with our friend and ally Egypt. Together we will confront and def! eat this scourge that knows no boundary and respects no creed.

### 2004/722 Secretary Condoleezza Rice Jerusalem July 23, 2005

more at Sharm el Sheikh or egyptian bombing and Sharm el Sheikh Bombings or Condoleezza Rice

Parents' Day, 2005

Parents' Day, 2005 A Proclamation by the President of the United States

Parents are role models for their children. With patience, sacrifice, and love, they teach their children life lessons and prepare them for the future. On Parents' Day, we express our gratitude for the hard work of parents throughout America and reaffirm our commitment to promoting a culture of responsible parenthood.

Mothers and fathers love their children unconditionally and make daily sacrifices to provide for them. Parents create a safe, nurturing environment in which their children can grow and learn. By instructing their children to make right choices, parents instill lifelong values and prepare their children for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Parents experience the great joy of watching their sons and daughters mature into responsible adults and good citizens.

On Parents' Day, we recognize the boundless love and generosity of all parents, including the foster and adoptive parents who demonstrate the compassionate spirit of America. We honor parents for their dedication to providing our Nation's children with the love and support they need.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States and consistent with Public Law 103 362, as amended, do hereby proclaim Sunday, July 24, 2005, as Parents' Day. I encourage all Americans to express love, respect, and appreciation to parents across our Nation. I also call upon citizens to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty first day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, July 21, 2005

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Freedom Calendar 07/23/05 - 07/30/05

July 23, 1840, Birth of African-American Republican John Hyman; sold eight times as a slave, became U.S. Rep. from North Carolina (1875-77).

July 24, 1867, Republican Party established in South Carolina; at convention, 76 of 124 delegates were African-American.

July 25, 2001, California Republican Gaddi Vasquez nominated by President George W. Bush as first Hispanic to be Director of the Peace Corps.

July 26, 1990, President George H. W. Bush signs Americans with Disabilities Act, world’s first comprehensive civil rights law for people with disabilities.

July 27, 1960, At Republican National Convention, Vice President and eventual presidential nominee Richard Nixon insists on strong civil rights plank in platform.

July 28, 1866, Republican Congress authorizes formation of the Buffalo Soldiers, two regiments of African-American cavalrymen.

July 29, 1932, Birth of Nancy Kassebaum, U.S. Senator (R-KS) and daughter of 1936 Republican presidential nominee.

July 30, 1866, Democrat-controlled City of New Orleans orders police to storm racially-integrated Republican meeting; raid kills 40 and wounds more than 150.

“Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.”

Section 1 of the 13th Amendment, written in 1865 by Senator Lyman Trumbull (R-IL), author of much of the Republican Party’s civil rights legislation after the Civil War

SOURCE: 2005 Republican Freedom Calendar more at Freedom Calendar or Republican and Republicans