Entrance Exams Start Nationwide, All Time High of 797 Schools
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/national/news/20090117-OYT1T00379.htm?from=top
The College Entrance Examinations began at 738 assembly halls nationwide today in the morning simultaneously.
Tests run for two days until the 18th. 543,981 participated, which is 596 more than last year. Since the 1st time in 1990, Colleges and Junior Colleges have continued the practice culminating in all time high of 797 institutions. With regards to recruiting capacity for aspiring applicants, the rate has lowered from 3.03 to 3.00.
According to the Entrance Exam Center, the applicant figures climbed to a peak of 672,887 but due to declining birth rates the number continues to fall with last year tallying 550,000 applicants.
The number of Colleges using the Center administered test has increased, In an attempt to ensure the number of applicants increases, over 8 private schools are participating in addition to the 156 state schools. 154 Junior Colleges are also participating.
At the start of the exam period, the number of ronins participating was cut in half from near 40% to 19.5%. A major reason being the cost of entering college.
On the first day, the test begun at 9:30 A.M. The first subject was civics, then continued with History, Japanese and Foreign Languages. In the evening, the English Listening Comprehension quiz is administered. This is the 4th time that this test has been administered.
Yomiuri Shinbun
Friday, January 16, 2009
飛行機不時着 日本乗客の英検
Upon Landing; "I'm Alive", Upon The Water; "Will I Sink?"
(New York-1/17/2009 3:01 A.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0117/TKY200901160354.html
"The water gathered at my feet as I took shelter". One passenger aboard the US Airways flight which crashed into the Hudson River, Japanese employee Kanau Deguchi (23 years old) talks about the minutes of fear being involved in the incident.
Not long after the takeoff, Mr. Deguchi said he heard a Boom sound. It was the third engine behind his seat. The cabin crew looked around. They smelled a burning odor in the air and the other passengers said "It's on fire" in an uproar. People were nervous but didn't think it was terrorism.
The plane was stable, the only thing he remembered about the pilot was his message "Prepare for impact".
Outside the window, he noticed the Manhattan buildings and he realized that they were losing altitude. Afterward his head went blank and grasped his hands on the seat in front of him.
On the instant of landing, he could only feel the rough shock of the landing. "I thought it was totally unreal but I could feel I was alive". However, after that the real fear set in.
Water quickly entered through the back of the plane. It soon gathered at his feet. Would he sink along with the plane? Inside the plane, chaos fell. The passengers rushed toward the emergency exits past the seats. About 20 people crammed into a 4 person boat. In the end, what was left was wallets and cell phones. Deguchi's beloved laptop sunk with into the river.
He was separated from his superior, Yuuki Takikawa (43 years old) but was glad to see his face once again at the end. Both were glad that each other was safe.
"I truly am grateful to the pilot. He made a small error but averted a huge disaster." When asked if he would ride planes from now on, he said: "I'll quickly be on a business flight the week after next" with a bitter smile.
Asahi Shinbun
(New York-1/17/2009 3:01 A.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0117/TKY200901160354.html
"The water gathered at my feet as I took shelter". One passenger aboard the US Airways flight which crashed into the Hudson River, Japanese employee Kanau Deguchi (23 years old) talks about the minutes of fear being involved in the incident.
Not long after the takeoff, Mr. Deguchi said he heard a Boom sound. It was the third engine behind his seat. The cabin crew looked around. They smelled a burning odor in the air and the other passengers said "It's on fire" in an uproar. People were nervous but didn't think it was terrorism.
The plane was stable, the only thing he remembered about the pilot was his message "Prepare for impact".
Outside the window, he noticed the Manhattan buildings and he realized that they were losing altitude. Afterward his head went blank and grasped his hands on the seat in front of him.
On the instant of landing, he could only feel the rough shock of the landing. "I thought it was totally unreal but I could feel I was alive". However, after that the real fear set in.
Water quickly entered through the back of the plane. It soon gathered at his feet. Would he sink along with the plane? Inside the plane, chaos fell. The passengers rushed toward the emergency exits past the seats. About 20 people crammed into a 4 person boat. In the end, what was left was wallets and cell phones. Deguchi's beloved laptop sunk with into the river.
He was separated from his superior, Yuuki Takikawa (43 years old) but was glad to see his face once again at the end. Both were glad that each other was safe.
"I truly am grateful to the pilot. He made a small error but averted a huge disaster." When asked if he would ride planes from now on, he said: "I'll quickly be on a business flight the week after next" with a bitter smile.
Asahi Shinbun
Thursday, January 15, 2009
ハマスレーダー死亡
Hamas Interior Minister Siyam killed in Israeli Bombing of Gaza
(Jerusalem-1/16/2009 11:12 A.M. JST)
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/world/news/20090116-OYT1T00330.htm
Said Siyam, Interior Minister of Fundamentalist Group Hamas was killed in Gaza aerial bombings, according to the Israeli Army.
Because Siyam was a high ranking official in Hamas government, this is a huge blow to Hamas itself.
Hamas was at his brother's house at the time. Both he, his brother and brother's wife died.
Hamas military groups are announcing their planned revenge. Siyad was elected as Interior Minister in the 2006 Legislative Elections. He was known as a Hamas die hard who established a Hamas security force several thousand strong. They originally were under moderate Palestinian President Abbas.
Yomiuri Shinbun
(Jerusalem-1/16/2009 11:12 A.M. JST)
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/world/news/20090116-OYT1T00330.htm
Said Siyam, Interior Minister of Fundamentalist Group Hamas was killed in Gaza aerial bombings, according to the Israeli Army.
Because Siyam was a high ranking official in Hamas government, this is a huge blow to Hamas itself.
Hamas was at his brother's house at the time. Both he, his brother and brother's wife died.
Hamas military groups are announcing their planned revenge. Siyad was elected as Interior Minister in the 2006 Legislative Elections. He was known as a Hamas die hard who established a Hamas security force several thousand strong. They originally were under moderate Palestinian President Abbas.
Yomiuri Shinbun
オバマ漫画
Obama in Spider Man, "I Was Always A Fan"
(New York-1/15/2009 12:25 P.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0115/TKY200901150044.html
Nefarious Criminals aiming to disrupt the inauguration ceremonies are foiled by Spider Man. On the 14th, Obama makes a special appearance in popular Spider Man comic issue to be sold nationwide. Because Mr. Obama collected the title as a child, Marvel is planning a special edition issue. The plot entails Spider-Man fighting villainous Chameleon masquerading as the President. Obama says to Spider-Man "I was always a fan".
On the sales day, A line wait of up to 4 hours was reported in Downtown New York. One buyer, David Tress (25) states; "I was surprised Obama would be in a Comic. To me, Obama is the real hero."
Asahi Shinbun
(New York-1/15/2009 12:25 P.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0115/TKY200901150044.html
Nefarious Criminals aiming to disrupt the inauguration ceremonies are foiled by Spider Man. On the 14th, Obama makes a special appearance in popular Spider Man comic issue to be sold nationwide. Because Mr. Obama collected the title as a child, Marvel is planning a special edition issue. The plot entails Spider-Man fighting villainous Chameleon masquerading as the President. Obama says to Spider-Man "I was always a fan".
On the sales day, A line wait of up to 4 hours was reported in Downtown New York. One buyer, David Tress (25) states; "I was surprised Obama would be in a Comic. To me, Obama is the real hero."
Asahi Shinbun
米機墜落、NYCに危機
Over 150 2 Japanese included in US River Plane Crash
(New York-1/16/2009 7:30 A.M.
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0116/TKY200901160002.html
On the 15th just after 3 P.M. Eastern Time, A US Airways 1549 passenger plane carrying 150 including the crew, crashed into the Hudson River flowing between Manhattan Island and New Jersey State. According the the Federal Aviation Administration, all passenger and crew escaped and are confirmed safe.
The New York-based Japan Consulate General reported that 2 of the passengers were Japanese, however both are safe. The Charlotte, North Carolina bound plane took off from LaGuardia Airport. The FAA reports that birds became caught in the engine (known as a "Bird Strike"). Immediately following the crash, passengers escaped along the wings of the craft via Coast Guard aid.
CNN Television showed a passenger saying "I think that all the passengers were able to be rescued. The pilot said 'Prepare for Impact'. At first everyone panicked but then calmed down." At the time New York was hit by a cold snap, driving the temperatures below -5 Celsius.
Asahi Shinbun
(New York-1/16/2009 7:30 A.M.
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0116/TKY200901160002.html
On the 15th just after 3 P.M. Eastern Time, A US Airways 1549 passenger plane carrying 150 including the crew, crashed into the Hudson River flowing between Manhattan Island and New Jersey State. According the the Federal Aviation Administration, all passenger and crew escaped and are confirmed safe.
The New York-based Japan Consulate General reported that 2 of the passengers were Japanese, however both are safe. The Charlotte, North Carolina bound plane took off from LaGuardia Airport. The FAA reports that birds became caught in the engine (known as a "Bird Strike"). Immediately following the crash, passengers escaped along the wings of the craft via Coast Guard aid.
CNN Television showed a passenger saying "I think that all the passengers were able to be rescued. The pilot said 'Prepare for Impact'. At first everyone panicked but then calmed down." At the time New York was hit by a cold snap, driving the temperatures below -5 Celsius.
Asahi Shinbun
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
グアンタナモ閉鎖, オバマ命令 (国際通信）
Obama To Close Guantanamo Prison, US Media Reports
(Washington-1/13/2009 11:44 A.M.)
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/feature/20081107-5171446/news/20090113-OYT1T00358.htm
US Media reports through Obama Administration Officials that Obama intends to close Guantanamo Prison within 1 week following his inauguration as president. The prison is a US Navy manned facility in Cuba which houses Terror suspects.
AP reports if possible, there would be action undertook the day immediately following the inauguration.
With the prison deemed a violation of human rights, Mr. Obama plans for it's shut down. However with the logistical problem of transferring and accommodating about 250 people housed in the prison, the actual closing could take up to several months.
Yomiuri Shinbun
(Washington-1/13/2009 11:44 A.M.)
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/feature/20081107-5171446/news/20090113-OYT1T00358.htm
US Media reports through Obama Administration Officials that Obama intends to close Guantanamo Prison within 1 week following his inauguration as president. The prison is a US Navy manned facility in Cuba which houses Terror suspects.
AP reports if possible, there would be action undertook the day immediately following the inauguration.
With the prison deemed a violation of human rights, Mr. Obama plans for it's shut down. However with the logistical problem of transferring and accommodating about 250 people housed in the prison, the actual closing could take up to several months.
Yomiuri Shinbun
クリントンの日米関係言明 （国際通信）
Japan-US Alliance Is Cornerstone of Asian-American Relations, Clinton Declares at Designation
(Washington-1/14/2009 1:36 A.M.)
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/world/news/20090114-OYT1T00738.htm
On the 13th, Senator Hilary Clinton attended Senate Confirmation Hearings regarding her designation as Obama's new Secretary of State. In the beginning, she declared: "America's urgent matters cannot be solved alone, America cannot solve problems without the world. Foriegn Policy is not based around stiff ideology, it must be based on the combination of ideals and realism." She declared a change from the Bush Administration's "Stubborn Policy."
Regarding the US-Japan alliance, Ms. Clinton said; " Maintaining peace and prosperity in Asia and the Pacific Rim is imperative, US and Japanese Political Alliance is a cornerstone."
Regarding Chinese relations, she said; "WIth the importance a changing world, such fate rests on which route China takes both foreign and domestically."
She declared that "Our responsibility is not over" regarding the Iraq War. She later said that "instead we should refocus on the pivitol issue of Afganistan."
Yomiuri Shinbun
(Washington-1/14/2009 1:36 A.M.)
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/world/news/20090114-OYT1T00738.htm
On the 13th, Senator Hilary Clinton attended Senate Confirmation Hearings regarding her designation as Obama's new Secretary of State. In the beginning, she declared: "America's urgent matters cannot be solved alone, America cannot solve problems without the world. Foriegn Policy is not based around stiff ideology, it must be based on the combination of ideals and realism." She declared a change from the Bush Administration's "Stubborn Policy."
Regarding the US-Japan alliance, Ms. Clinton said; " Maintaining peace and prosperity in Asia and the Pacific Rim is imperative, US and Japanese Political Alliance is a cornerstone."
Regarding Chinese relations, she said; "WIth the importance a changing world, such fate rests on which route China takes both foreign and domestically."
She declared that "Our responsibility is not over" regarding the Iraq War. She later said that "instead we should refocus on the pivitol issue of Afganistan."
Yomiuri Shinbun
ハリー英王子困惑
English Prince Harry Drowns In Embarrassment Over Discriminatory Language.
(London-1/14/2009 7:16 P.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0114/TKY200901140285.html
The Crown Prince Charles and Late Princess Diana's third son, Third Crown Successor Prince Harry derogatorily referred to a Pakistani Coworker as a Paki while continuing his military service as a cadet in 2006. Footage has arisen in the English media. The prince offered an apology but criticism from Pakistani organizations has intensified.
The footage reveals Prince Harry introducing a coworker as "This is my 'Paki' friend, Ahmed." in a airport lobby awaiting a flight to training grounds. Another scene reveals him referring to an Arab cadet as a "raghead".
In opposition, British Pakistani and Muslim groups have said in angry chorus; "That the prince discriminated as such is a great shock." The Civil Equality Association which monitors discrimination also intends to inquire the Ministry of Defense whether or not there is a problem with order in military circles.
The prince through his spokesperson offered an apology stating, "It was not intended with malice, if we offended some, we apologize."
Asahi Shinbun
(London-1/14/2009 7:16 P.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0114/TKY200901140285.html
The Crown Prince Charles and Late Princess Diana's third son, Third Crown Successor Prince Harry derogatorily referred to a Pakistani Coworker as a Paki while continuing his military service as a cadet in 2006. Footage has arisen in the English media. The prince offered an apology but criticism from Pakistani organizations has intensified.
The footage reveals Prince Harry introducing a coworker as "This is my 'Paki' friend, Ahmed." in a airport lobby awaiting a flight to training grounds. Another scene reveals him referring to an Arab cadet as a "raghead".
In opposition, British Pakistani and Muslim groups have said in angry chorus; "That the prince discriminated as such is a great shock." The Civil Equality Association which monitors discrimination also intends to inquire the Ministry of Defense whether or not there is a problem with order in military circles.
The prince through his spokesperson offered an apology stating, "It was not intended with malice, if we offended some, we apologize."
Asahi Shinbun
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
ガザのための争い （国際通信）
Hamas Leader Boasts "Victory is Near", Armistice Negotiations Continue
(Jeruselam-1/13/09 12:24 P.M.)
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/feature/20081229-507405/news/20090113-OYT1T00371.htm
Islamic Fundamentalist Hamas Party Leader Ismail Haniya gave a televised speech on the 12th. "Our Victory is Near, Gaza will not fall", he said. As the Isreali Army encircles the Gaza City, the Palistinain ruling party revealed it's aim to continue battling.
In contrast, armistice negotiations "will not stop", Egypt said.
At the end of last year, after Isreal began it's assult on Gaza, Mr. Haniya took underground refuge. Where he makes his speeches remains unknown.
In Gaza, Palistinain President Abbas was forced into exile by Hamas in 2007. Hamas's rule lead by Haniya continues.
Yomiuri Shinbun
(Jeruselam-1/13/09 12:24 P.M.)
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/feature/20081229-507405/news/20090113-OYT1T00371.htm
Islamic Fundamentalist Hamas Party Leader Ismail Haniya gave a televised speech on the 12th. "Our Victory is Near, Gaza will not fall", he said. As the Isreali Army encircles the Gaza City, the Palistinain ruling party revealed it's aim to continue battling.
In contrast, armistice negotiations "will not stop", Egypt said.
At the end of last year, after Isreal began it's assult on Gaza, Mr. Haniya took underground refuge. Where he makes his speeches remains unknown.
In Gaza, Palistinain President Abbas was forced into exile by Hamas in 2007. Hamas's rule lead by Haniya continues.
Yomiuri Shinbun
ロシアガス争い再開 （国際通信）
Ukraine Disturbs both Russia and Gas Reopening? Europe Investigates
(Moscow-1/13/09 9:13 P.M.)
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/world/news/20090113-OYT1T00657.htm
Russian Gas Company Gazprom reopened its Ukraine routed gas lines to Europe on the 13th.
However, Russia claims that the reason gas is not reaching Europe is due to Ukrainian interference of pipelines.
Gazprom opened lines toward the Balkan States at 77,000,000 cubic meters worth. To confirm that all of it reached Europe, Russia, Ukaraine and the EU dispatched specialists to observe the gas transport but Ukraine disallowed one Russian official to enter a facility.
On the 7th, Russia halted all gas exports to Europe via Ukraine. Ukraine took measures to not receive gas running past it's region but this drastically affected many livelihoods but cutting off heating.
With the ongoing debacle of Russian/Ukrainan contracts contineuing, Ukraine routed gas lines once again were shut off.
Yomiuri Shinbun
(Moscow-1/13/09 9:13 P.M.)
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/world/news/20090113-OYT1T00657.htm
Russian Gas Company Gazprom reopened its Ukraine routed gas lines to Europe on the 13th.
However, Russia claims that the reason gas is not reaching Europe is due to Ukrainian interference of pipelines.
Gazprom opened lines toward the Balkan States at 77,000,000 cubic meters worth. To confirm that all of it reached Europe, Russia, Ukaraine and the EU dispatched specialists to observe the gas transport but Ukraine disallowed one Russian official to enter a facility.
On the 7th, Russia halted all gas exports to Europe via Ukraine. Ukraine took measures to not receive gas running past it's region but this drastically affected many livelihoods but cutting off heating.
With the ongoing debacle of Russian/Ukrainan contracts contineuing, Ukraine routed gas lines once again were shut off.
Yomiuri Shinbun
天然ガス争い再開 （国際通信）
Russian Gas Shut Off From Europe Three Hours After Re-flowing
(Moscow-1/13/2009 8:40 P.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0113/TKY200901130298.html
Regarding the issue of Europe consumed Russian Natural Gas via Ukraine, Russian State Corporation Gazprom reopened it's Europe aimed gas lines at 10 A.M. However after 3 P.M., Ukraine routed gas lines were once again shutoff. It seemed as if the European Gas Shortage would finally end, but Russia and Ukraine's heavy confrontation continues.
According to Interfax News Agency, Gazprom was to begin by supplying 76,000,000 cubic meters of gas a day. First it would go to the heavily dependent Balkan States, Moldova and Turkey. Then it would accelerate through Ukraine who "would not steal" any supplies, providing full service.
Russia on it's part has said "We have provided the gas, but Ukraine is blocking it. Everything is in violation of our agreement." The situation has reemerged.
The root of the matter is the dispute of "stolen or hoarded gas" between both countries. The accused Ukraine stands in opposition to the accusing Russia by stating; "To provide relay of gas, technical specifications are required." Such "specifications" were an amount of gas at 25,000,000 cubic meters to ensure pipeline pressure. Ukraine insists that hereafter it would provide Europe with such gas. Russia countered with "Such technical specifications (pipe pressure) should be met by Ukraine itself".
Russia also seems to be taking issue with the EU delegated observation team that was part of the resupply conditions. Prime Minister Putin clearly warned "If the stolen gas matter is not looked into, Europe's portion of gas provisions will diminish". There still remains the possibility of Europe becoming caught in a gas shortage.
Even with the reopening of Europe's gas supply, the breakdown of Russian-Ukrainian yearly price contract negotiations which fell threw last year, still remain. Russia has continued gas shutoff which occurred on the 1st. With the problem bogging down, neither side has sat down for negotiation.
Last fall, both countries negotiated a price freeze. At first, Russia presented a price of $250 per 1000 cubic meter, an increase over last year. However, due to Ukraine's refusal the protocol has been ineffective and the European Market Price rose to $450.
Ukraine for its part has claimed that gas prices coupled with crude oil have become cheaper, stating that protocol called for a price of $250. Russia ongoing claim that Ukraine skipped out on transport costs and last year's gas payments continues.
Asahi Shinbun
(Moscow-1/13/2009 8:40 P.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0113/TKY200901130298.html
Regarding the issue of Europe consumed Russian Natural Gas via Ukraine, Russian State Corporation Gazprom reopened it's Europe aimed gas lines at 10 A.M. However after 3 P.M., Ukraine routed gas lines were once again shutoff. It seemed as if the European Gas Shortage would finally end, but Russia and Ukraine's heavy confrontation continues.
According to Interfax News Agency, Gazprom was to begin by supplying 76,000,000 cubic meters of gas a day. First it would go to the heavily dependent Balkan States, Moldova and Turkey. Then it would accelerate through Ukraine who "would not steal" any supplies, providing full service.
Russia on it's part has said "We have provided the gas, but Ukraine is blocking it. Everything is in violation of our agreement." The situation has reemerged.
The root of the matter is the dispute of "stolen or hoarded gas" between both countries. The accused Ukraine stands in opposition to the accusing Russia by stating; "To provide relay of gas, technical specifications are required." Such "specifications" were an amount of gas at 25,000,000 cubic meters to ensure pipeline pressure. Ukraine insists that hereafter it would provide Europe with such gas. Russia countered with "Such technical specifications (pipe pressure) should be met by Ukraine itself".
Russia also seems to be taking issue with the EU delegated observation team that was part of the resupply conditions. Prime Minister Putin clearly warned "If the stolen gas matter is not looked into, Europe's portion of gas provisions will diminish". There still remains the possibility of Europe becoming caught in a gas shortage.
Even with the reopening of Europe's gas supply, the breakdown of Russian-Ukrainian yearly price contract negotiations which fell threw last year, still remain. Russia has continued gas shutoff which occurred on the 1st. With the problem bogging down, neither side has sat down for negotiation.
Last fall, both countries negotiated a price freeze. At first, Russia presented a price of $250 per 1000 cubic meter, an increase over last year. However, due to Ukraine's refusal the protocol has been ineffective and the European Market Price rose to $450.
Ukraine for its part has claimed that gas prices coupled with crude oil have become cheaper, stating that protocol called for a price of $250. Russia ongoing claim that Ukraine skipped out on transport costs and last year's gas payments continues.
Asahi Shinbun
Monday, January 12, 2009
オバマ就任式準備
Enter Obama Stand In, Inauguration Rehearsal
(Washington-1/12/09 8:00 P.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0112/TKY200901120199.html
In note of President Elect Barack Obama's Inauguration Ceremony on the 20th, a group of 3000 militarily authorized officials descended upon the capital Washington D.C., with the presidential "stand-in" being sworn in. With a historical 2000000 people projected to attend preparations unfolded at a quick pace for this day of "transition".
The rehearsal began before dawn on the Capitol Building's West Terrace. Army Sergent Derrick Brooks, whose weight and skin color resembled Mr. Obama's, took the oath. The inaugural speech only consisted of the words "God Bless America", but even children resembling Mr. Obama's children Malia and Sasha participated.
Afterwards, 2.5 kilometers worth of road were blocked off for the inaugural parade rehearsal which headed towards the White House via Pennsylvania Avenue. Obama stand in Brooks rode in the oft selected black limousine. In front of the White House, Brooks descended from the car, saluting the security person ell with a stand in for First Lady Michelle Obama in tow.
"Even if it was just for one day, it felt nice to be famous", Brooks said surrounded by the press corps. When interviewed by Mr. Obama himself, he said; "Your ears became as big as the Lord's himself."
To add, a helicopter simulating retired president and Texas native George Bush took off from the Capitol's East Plaza. On the day of inauguration, a record high of over 2,000,000 people look to crowd the nations capital, that eclipses the 1,200,000 visitors for President Johnson's inauguration. Transportation officials aim to maintain strict order. The number of police men and security officials is at 8,000, soldiers are at 10,150.
Asahi Shinbun
(Washington-1/12/09 8:00 P.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0112/TKY200901120199.html
In note of President Elect Barack Obama's Inauguration Ceremony on the 20th, a group of 3000 militarily authorized officials descended upon the capital Washington D.C., with the presidential "stand-in" being sworn in. With a historical 2000000 people projected to attend preparations unfolded at a quick pace for this day of "transition".
The rehearsal began before dawn on the Capitol Building's West Terrace. Army Sergent Derrick Brooks, whose weight and skin color resembled Mr. Obama's, took the oath. The inaugural speech only consisted of the words "God Bless America", but even children resembling Mr. Obama's children Malia and Sasha participated.
Afterwards, 2.5 kilometers worth of road were blocked off for the inaugural parade rehearsal which headed towards the White House via Pennsylvania Avenue. Obama stand in Brooks rode in the oft selected black limousine. In front of the White House, Brooks descended from the car, saluting the security person ell with a stand in for First Lady Michelle Obama in tow.
"Even if it was just for one day, it felt nice to be famous", Brooks said surrounded by the press corps. When interviewed by Mr. Obama himself, he said; "Your ears became as big as the Lord's himself."
To add, a helicopter simulating retired president and Texas native George Bush took off from the Capitol's East Plaza. On the day of inauguration, a record high of over 2,000,000 people look to crowd the nations capital, that eclipses the 1,200,000 visitors for President Johnson's inauguration. Transportation officials aim to maintain strict order. The number of police men and security officials is at 8,000, soldiers are at 10,150.
Asahi Shinbun
ブッシュ最後の会見
America Hasn't Lost It's Dignity, Bush's Final Interview
(Washington-1/13/2009 1:35 A.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0113/TKY200901120238.html
President Bush, who is about to end his 8 year term, sat down for his final interview at the White House on the 12th. In response to the question of whether America's dignity has been lost since the Iraq War, Mr. Bush strongly disagreed. "As the land of freedom, America's dignity has not been lost", he insisted boastfully.
The question revolved around Bush being the main arbitrator of America's sullied image. President Elect Barack Obama had stated that "America must reclaim it's dignity which has evaporated worldwide." Mr. Bush "strongly disagrees with the idea that our ethical position has taken damage." "Maybe a few of the elite have", he admitted. Never the less, he maintained that America being the land of the free still offered great hope to many people.
In regards to the Iraq War, Mr. Bush emphasized; "A portion of Europe said that without International Cooperation, Iraq was something that ought not to have been done but that was just two or three countries." He again repeated that America's dignity had remained intact.
Mr. Bush also said that, "While I might have gained popularity points in signing the Kyoto Protocol, I saw it's flaws and made constructive suggestions." In response to criticisms of unilateral action, he emphasised; "If we have another attack on the homeland, they are meaningless." He asked "Do you remember?", referencing the exalting and feverish media action right after the 9/11 attacks. Beyond that he stated; "I believe that a majority of people in the world respect America. There are a few that hate me, I know that."
Asahi Shinbun
(Washington-1/13/2009 1:35 A.M.)
http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0113/TKY200901120238.html
President Bush, who is about to end his 8 year term, sat down for his final interview at the White House on the 12th. In response to the question of whether America's dignity has been lost since the Iraq War, Mr. Bush strongly disagreed. "As the land of freedom, America's dignity has not been lost", he insisted boastfully.
The question revolved around Bush being the main arbitrator of America's sullied image. President Elect Barack Obama had stated that "America must reclaim it's dignity which has evaporated worldwide." Mr. Bush "strongly disagrees with the idea that our ethical position has taken damage." "Maybe a few of the elite have", he admitted. Never the less, he maintained that America being the land of the free still offered great hope to many people.
In regards to the Iraq War, Mr. Bush emphasized; "A portion of Europe said that without International Cooperation, Iraq was something that ought not to have been done but that was just two or three countries." He again repeated that America's dignity had remained intact.
Mr. Bush also said that, "While I might have gained popularity points in signing the Kyoto Protocol, I saw it's flaws and made constructive suggestions." In response to criticisms of unilateral action, he emphasised; "If we have another attack on the homeland, they are meaningless." He asked "Do you remember?", referencing the exalting and feverish media action right after the 9/11 attacks. Beyond that he stated; "I believe that a majority of people in the world respect America. There are a few that hate me, I know that."
Asahi Shinbun
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