http://www.newsahead.com/preview/index.php Future world news and world events content en-us Thu, 01 Jan 1970 12:01:00 GMT Tue, 26 Aug 2008 01:08:40 GMT dbCanvas RSS Newsroom - http://www.dbcanvas.com webmaster@newsahead.com http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/13/paris-13-september---21-december-2008-37th-paris-autumn-festival-opens-culture-credentials/index.php President Nicolas Sarkozy views this 2008 Paris Autumn Festival during France's six-month European Union presidency, as a chance to highlight France's cultural leadership. If tensions continue to ease between Russia and Georgia, freeing Sarkozy from his present role in EU diplomatic efforts to resolve the dispute between the two countries over South Ossetia and Abkhazia, he is likely to use the avant-garde cultural extravaganza to polish his culture agenda. Sat, 13 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/12/france-12-15-september-2008-pope-benedict-xvi/index.php Pope Benedict XVI makes his first pontifical visit to France in September. It will be a massive security operation, particularly when he visits a shrine at Lourdes where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared to 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous 150 years ago. The Popemobiles will be shipped to France weeks ahead of time to give French police time to learn how to drive them. Fri, 12 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/12/france-12-13-september-2008-european-union-finance-ministers-meet/index.php Fallout from the United States subprime crisis, a decision on a leader for the eurogroup and the EU deadline for balancing budgets will be high on the agenda when European Union finance ministers meet informally under the French EU presidency in Nice. "Eurogroup" refers to the club of EU countries that use the euro. Fri, 12 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/11/islamabad-11-september-2008-pakistans-muhammad-ali-jinnah-died-60-years-ago-/index.php India and Pakistan observe the death anniversaries of their two greatest leaders in the modern era in the same year. India observes the 60th death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on 30 Jan 2008, while Pakistan observes the 60th death anniversary of its Father of Nation, Quaid-e-Azam (great leader) Muhammad Ali Jinnah on Sep 11. Thu, 11 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/11/united-states-11-september-2008-nation-marks-7th-anniversary-of-terror-attacks/index.php The first Sep 11 memorial for the nation will dedicated on or near the seventh anniversary of the three terrorist attacks on the United States. It is being built on the spot where American Airlines Flight 77 tore into the west side of the Pentagon in Washington DC. Thu, 11 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/09/vienna-9-september-2008-opec-holds-149th-ordinary-meeting/index.php OPEC issued a press release in May that absolves it of responsibility for rocketing oil prices. The release also states that "there is clearly no shortage of oil in the market." The release - and worries expressed at the 148th OPEC meeting about the economic downturn decreasing demand for oil - suggest the cartel won't vote to open the spigot at their 149th Ordinary Meeting in September. But Brazil could help bring price relief. It wants to join OPEC. Tue, 09 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/07/united-states-7-september-2008-search-engine-king-google-turns-10/index.php Google was incorporated on 7 Sep 1998. Ten years on, it is the world's most popular Internet search engine. Because of stellar advertising sales, its shares continue to climb. Sun, 07 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/05/angola-5-6-september-2008-first-angola-general-election-since-1992/index.php Angola holds its first election since since 1992 during a lull in a civil war that lasted a quarter of a century. The ruling Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) is led by Jose Eduardo dos Santos, who has been in power since 1979. The question is whether he and his party will hand over the reins if the main opposition party triumphs at the polls. Elections have been postponed several times. Fri, 05 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/04/canada-4-13-september-2008-epic-canadian-wwi-movie-opens-33rd-toronto-international-film-festival/index.php Paul Gross' First World War epic "Passchendaele" opens Canada's top cinema event, the Toronto International Film Festival. Ranking as one of the most expensive Canadian films ever made, it's the story of the brutal third battle of Ypres in World War I. The festival traditionally opens with a Canadian film. The films from some 55 countries include many first seen at Cannes, Berlin and other international festivals. Hollywood typically uses the festival to create "Oscar buzz." Thu, 04 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/03/cyprus-3-september-2008-greek-and-turkish-cypriot-leaders-plan-historic-meeting/index.php Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat agreed in July to substantive reunification talks. They met at the abandoned Nicosia airport in the buffer zone that has divided the Mediterranean country for 34 years. The venue of the September meeting hasn't been announced. The talks, after four years of deadlock, are described as a last ditch effort to reunify the island. Wed, 03 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/01/united-states-1-4-september-2008-republican-party-chooses-candidates/index.php Minneapolis-St.Paul, Minnesota, anticipates the arrival of some 20,000 GOP delegates and officials, some 15,000 media representatives and thousands of protesters for the Republican Party National Convention. The delegates with be choosing the party's presidential and vice presidential candidates for the Nov 4 election. The challenges will be raising the cash for the huge event and sustaining voter interest. Mon, 01 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/01/britain-1-september-2008-cervical-cancer-vaccine-for-schoolgirls-12---13/index.php The British government has announced that all schoolgirls aged 12 to 13 will be immunized against cervical cancer starting in Sep 2008. A catch-up program for other age groups will start a year later. Mon, 01 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/01/phnom-penh-september-2008-cambodia-khmer-rouge-trials-could-begin/index.php The trial of five aging Khmer Rouge leaders might begin in September. The charges relate to the deaths and suffering of millions of Cambodians under the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s. After almost a decade strongman Prime Minister Hun Sen and the United Nations are still wrangling about the scope of and funding for the hybrid Cambodian-UN tribunal. The approach of the 30th anniversary of the end of the regime, in Jan 2009, could function as pressure on the negotiations Mon, 01 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/09/01/world-1-30-september-2008-worlds-muslims-mark-ramadan-with-month-of-abstinence/index.php The start and end dates of Ramadan are approximate: religious scholars don't always agree on the moon sightings that determine the exact dates. During Ramadan, the world's Muslims are required to abstain from food, drink, smoking and sex between dawn and sunset. Muslim ordinance also prescribes abstention from evil thoughts and deeds during Ramadan, but Islamic militants typically launch offensives during the month. In 2007 Baghdad saw a surge in suicide and car bombings. Mon, 01 Sep 2008 05:09:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/31/united-states-31-august---3-september-2008-rally-for-ex-us-presidential-candidate-ron-paul/index.php Supporters of maverick Rep. Ron Paul are organizing The Rally for the Republic, inspired by his message of limited government and strict adherence to the United States Constitution, in the city of Minneapolis. It's intended as an alternative to the Republican National Convention in the same city, and the dates overlap. The Texas conservative lost to John McCain in the race to be Republican Party candidate in the United States presidential election. Sun, 31 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/30/tokyo-30-august-2008-asakusa-samba-parade-carnival-and-reverse-migration/index.php The bare-bottomed annual Asakusa Samba Carnival parade is a four-hour sliver of Rio de Janeiro's famed Carnaval, but it is just as colorful and tells a bigger story. Sat, 30 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/30/united-states-30-august-2008-florida-beach-town-hosts-worlds-first-outdoor-projection-graffiti-fest/index.php The characteristic white walls of the new town of Alys Beach in Florida will become a blank canvas for digital artists to create graffiti on Aug 1, and entries have come from around the world. Sometimes referred to as "photon bombing," "guerilla projection," "projection bombing" or "urban projection," underground artists around the globe have started using the latest technologies to project video art onto skyscrapers and other urban structures. This is the first event of its kind in the world. Sat, 30 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/29/peru-29-30-august-2008--apec-small-and-medium-enterprise-ministerial-meeting/index.php The town of Chiclayo hosts this 15th meeting of ministers responsible for small and medium enterprises within the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum will be assessing the results of initiatives launched at the 14th SME meeting. These were aimed at driving productivity and protecting the environment. Fri, 29 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/29/world-29-august-2008-michael-jackson-king-of-pop-turns-50/index.php The eternal boy and King of Pop, Michael Jackson, turns 50. He has been an iconic figure since he joined his brothers in the family pop group at the age of seven. The big question is whether the mainly-reclusive star will choose to surface to celebrate in public. Fri, 29 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/28/dubai-28-august-2008-mall-of-epic-proportions-inaugurated/index.php "A mall of epic proportions," in the words of its developers, Emaar Malls Group, opens officially in the Gulf state on Aug 28. It's part of a master development plan called Downtown Dubai that includes the Burj Dubai, the tallest structure in the world. Burj Dubai, which is expected to top out at 2297 feet, not 2684 feet as planned originally, is due to open in late 2008 Thu, 28 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/27/italy-27-august---6-september-2008-65th-venice-film-festival-honors-years-best/index.php The Venice Film Festival, organised by the Venice Biennale, is the only event of this kind where guests can arrive in a boat rather than a limousine. The world premiere of "Burn after Reading," a comedy directed by Ethan and Joel Coen, will follow the opening ceremony of the 65th festival in the Sala Grande of the Palazzo del Cinema on Aug 27. The festival will pay tribute to Ermanno Olmi, an Italian filmmaker, who will be honored with the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement. Wed, 27 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/25/united-states-25-28-august-2008-democratic-party-chooses-presidential-candidate/index.php The 2008 Democratic Party Convention chooses a candidate for the country's top jobs, president and vice president, in Denver, a city that hasn't hosted a national convention since 1908. Security for the 4097 delegates, thousands of other party figures and some 15,000 media representatives could be the biggest headache for the organizers. Mon, 25 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/25/united-states-25-august-7-september-2008-us-open-tennis-a-likely-rematch-for-wimbledon-duo/index.php The next likely grand slam match-up for arch-rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal after their 5-set epic final at Wimbledon is the US Open Tennis contest at Flushing, New York. They will be expected to turn on the same level of play, widely described as tennis that is as good as it gets, which marked the Wimbledon contest and gave Nadal his first championship there. Mon, 25 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/16/dushanbe-16-august-tbc-2008-shangai-cooperation-organisation-summit/index.php The annual Shangai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit is scheduled in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, with Iran reported to be seeking accession as a full member. The alleged interference of United States in the Strait of Hormuz, and the situation in Afghanistan, Iran and Iraq are also likely to be discussed. Sat, 16 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/16/england-16-august-2008-material-girl-turns-50/index.php Raunchy diva Madonna turns 50 in August with an 11th CD, "Hard Candy," and an array of distinctions.These include her recent induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, more Number One singles than any other female artist, numerous MTV Music Awards, five Grammys and a Golden Globe for her performance as Evita. Though there are rumors her marriage to Guy Ritchie is in trouble, he is reported to be planning a birthday party at the couple's estate in Ashcombe, England. Sat, 16 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/16/space-16-august-2008-partial-eclipse-of-the-moon/index.php On 16 Aug the Moon passes through northern portion of Earth's shadow, almost becoming total. This second of two lunar eclipses in 2008 will be visible to Asia and Australia as well as the Americas, Europe and Africa. Sat, 16 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/16/united-states-16-august-2008-presidential-candidate-rivals-agree-to-forum/index.php Republican Arizona Senator John McCain and Illinois Democratic Senator Barak Obama will appear briefly on stage together for the Saddleback Civil Forum on Leadership and Compassion at the Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California, but it won't be a debate. Instead, they make their points in separate interviews with the Rev. Rick Warren. It is the candidates' first and only joint event before their parties' nominating conventions. Sat, 16 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/15/asuncion-15-august-2008-fernando-lugo-inaugurated-as-paraguay-president/index.php The inauguration of Fernando Lugo as Paraguay's president makes history. In one, it installs an ordained Catholic bishop, ends the 61-year rule of the Colorado Party, long allied with an infamous dictator, Alfredo Stroessner, and it follows a peaceful election on Apr 20 that was widely considered to be fair. He replaces President Nicanor Duarte Frutos. Some 15 heads of state are expected to attend. Fri, 15 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/14/nigeria-14-august-2008-objecting-nigeria-due-to-hand-over-bakassi-peninsula-war/index.php Nigeria is due to hand over the disputed oil-rich Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon in line with a World Court ruling and withdraw from the territory on Aug 14, but the deal is under fire. Former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo signed the so-called Green Tree Agreement with Cameroon President Paul Biya, but the Nigerian parliament hasn't ratified it. There are predictions the dispute will lead to war. Thu, 14 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/08/beijing-8-24-august-2008-china-hosts-xxix-olympiad/index.php The XXIX Olympiad in Aug 2008 promise to be a blessing for Beijing's residents because the Chinese authorities plan to make these the "Green Olympics." This means the authorities must address the city's legendary pollution problem. Living up to the promotion will be a challenge. In a report published to coincide with a recent World Environment Day, Beijing admitted that pollution is getting worse in China. And security is a key challenge. Fri, 08 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/08/myanmar-8-august-2008-activists-mark-8888-anniversary/index.php Tensions are likely to be higher in Myanmar/Burma on Aug 8, the 20th anniversary of the so-called 8888 Uprising, when university students began demonstrations in Yangon that spread throughout the country. Fri, 08 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/07/kenyatanzania-7-august-2008-us-embassies-attacked-10-years-ago/index.php Bomb blasts at the United States embassies in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam on 7 Aug 1998, believed to have been masterminded by Osama bin Laden and his al-Qaeda network, killed some 250 people and injured nearly 4100. The attacks have come to be viewed as the opening salvo in al-Qaeda's terror campaign against the United States and West. They are likely to become US presidential campaign issues on or about the anniversary date. Thu, 07 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/05/india-5-august-2008-five-years-ago-toxins-found-in-coke-pepsi/index.php On 5 Aug 2003 12 soft drink brands collected for testing from in and around Delhi contained residues of four extremely toxic pesticides and insecticides. Either Coca-Cola or PepsiCo owned most of the soft drinks. Tue, 05 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/04/south-africa-4-august-2008-challenge-to-corruption-case-of-anc-leader-jacob-zuma/index.php Jacob Zuma, the former Deputy President of South Africa and new president of the governing African National Congress, goes on trial in Pietermaritzburg on Aug 14. He has been charged with corruption, fraud, money laundering and racketeering. The court will hear a challenge to the trial on Aug 4. Zuma's supporters say the charges are part of a smear campaign meant to scupper his chances of succeeding Thabo Mbeki as president of South Africa. Mon, 04 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/03/melbourne-3-5-august-2008-australia-hosts-apec-ministerial-meeting/index.php Ministers of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation bloc of nations meet to continue the work of reforming the body. The mainly wealthy nations of the Pacific Rim area are concentrating in this phase of the initiative on reforms to to regional capital markets, incentives to ensure energy security and business barriers. Sun, 03 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/02/scotland-august-2008-delivery-of-hms-astute-attack-submarine/index.php The builders of Britain's largest and most powerful attack nuclear submarine, the first-of-class HMS Astute, plan to deliver it the Royal Navy in August - provocation for anti-nuclear protests. Sat, 02 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/01/northern-hemisphere-1-august-2008-total-solar-eclipse-darkens-narrow-swath/index.php Day turns briefly to dark twilight in the eclipse's path on Aug 1 as the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun. Solar eclipses were feared events in ancient times - the Chinese thought eclipses were caused when a dragon tried to swallow the sun. These days they attract swarms of camera-toting scientists and visitors to the best vantage spots. Fri, 01 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/01/united-states-1-august-2008-us-implements-first-stage-of-travel-authorization-plan/index.php The United States Department of Homeland Security introduces the first stage of its Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for visitors to the United States who do not require a visa. ESTA becomes mandatory on 12 Jan 2009. It requires nationals or citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries, traveling under the VWP, to receive an electronic travel authorization before boarding a US-bound airplane or vessel. On Aug 1 the system will open on a voluntary basis in English only. Fri, 01 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/08/01/vienna-1-august-2008-nuclear-watchdog-meets-to-consider-india-inspection-plan/index.php The governing board of the International Atomic Energy Agency holds a special meeting on Aug 1 to consider a plan submitted by india for IAEA nuclear inspections. Approval would be the first step in several towards a controversial deal between the United States and India for nuclear technology. Fri, 01 Aug 2008 05:08:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/29/washington-dc-29-july-2008-nasa-signed-into-being-50-years-ago/index.php The National Aeronautics and Space Administration was hurried into being at the height of the Cold War after the Soviet Union's successful 1957 launch of Sputnik 1. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation authorizing it on 29 Jul 1958. NASA went into operation on Oct 1 in the same year. The 50th anniversary of the signature invites a look at whether the agency's often historic achievements have been a result of or in spite of various presidents and Congresses since Eisenhower. Tue, 29 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/27/sri-lanka-27-july---3-august-2008-15th-saarc-summit-scheduled/index.php The 15th South Asian Association of Regional Co-operation Summit (SAARC) will be held in Kandy amid concerns about possible terrorist attacks by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) during the event. Fighting between the Sri Lankan military and LTTE has intensified since the government pulled out of the 2002 cease fire agreement with LTTE rebels on 16 Jan 2008. Sun, 27 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/27/cambodia-27-july-2008-parliamentary-election-with-big-oil-a-player/index.php Cambodia holds elections for its 123-seat National Assembly in its bicameral parliament, with Hun Sen seeking a second 5-year term as prime minister and his ruling Cambodian People's Party likely to maintain its domination. An emerging issue, nationality, could eliminate two Hun Sen rivals from the premiership. Sun, 27 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/25/germany-25-july-2008-this-bayreuth-festival-2009-the-swan-song-for-wagner-grandson/index.php The Bayreuth Festival, which celebrates the music of Richard Wagner, opens on 25 Jul for the last time under the direction of his grandson. Wolfgang Wagner plans to retire on Aug 31, the day after his 89th birthday. Wagner has been in charge of Bayreuth, which was founded in 1876 by his grandfather, since 1951. His resignation as director of the festival held annually in the town of Bayreuth exacerbates a decades-old family feud involving the famed composer's great-granddaughters. Fri, 25 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/23/sri-lanka-23-july-2008-tamilans-observe-25th-anniversary-of-black-july/index.php July 23 in 1983 marked the start of the present ethnic violence between the Tamilans and the Sri Lankan government. Thousands of Tamils had to leave Sri Lanka. They became refugees in the United States, Canada, Europe and India or they took up armed struggle. Colombo could face an embarrassing situation if the Black July anniversary prompts violence as it is hosting a SAARC summit in August. Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/19/london-ulaanbaatar-19-july-august-2008-drivers-take-on-8000-mile-mongol-rally-in-junk-cars/index.php The 5th annual charity Mongol Rally, a 10,000-mile and approximately 22-day dash across a quarter of the earth's surface in underpowered and clapped-out cars begins in Hyde Park, London, on Jul 19 and ends in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia in Central Asia. By the rules the rally vehicle must be purchased for less than US $1000 and have an engine of less than of 1 litre. Drivers can choose their own route through Europe, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Russia to Ulaanbaatar. Sat, 19 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/18/south-africa-18-july-2008-nelson-mandela-celebrates-90th-birthday/index.php Former South African president Nelson Mandela can count on as much of a 90th birthday party as his health can stand. Though in reasonable health, the Nobel Peace laureate and a leader of both the armed and political struggles against apartheid is noticably frail and walks with a cane. His birthday present from the United States was being removed in July from its terrorist watch list. Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/17/russia-17-july-2008-tsar-nicholas-ii-and-family-executed-90-years-ago/index.php When ceremonies are held in Yekaterinburg to mark the 90th anniversary in July of the execution in that city of Nicholas II, the last Russian tsar, Empress Alexandra and their children during the Russian civil war, all of the family will be accounted for. DNA tests prove that bone fragments found recently were Prince Alexi, the heir, and Grand Duchess Maria. Thu, 17 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/16/england-16-july---4-august-2008--anglican-bishops-gather-for-lambeth-conference/index.php Anglican bishops from around the world gather on the campus of the University of Kent for the Lambeth Conference, an event held every 10 years that seemed threatened over a dispute with the Episcopal branch of the 77 million-member Anglican communion. The dispute is over homosexual clergy and same-sex unions. Wed, 16 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/15/sydney-15-20-july-2008-xxiii-world-youth-day-sees-pope-benedict-xvis-first-visit-to-australia/index.php The countdown to the 23rd World Youth Day - the 10th international WYD - and Pope Benedict XVI's first visit to Australia is well under way. The Pope arrives at Richmond RAAF Base on 13 Jul. He joins the youth on 17 Jul, arriving in the city by boat on Sydney Harbor. The sex-abuse scandals have left the Church in crisis, financially and because of a drop in religious vocations. He will rely on his presence to undo some of the damage. Tue, 15 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/14/england-14-20-july-2008-farnborough-air-show-marks-aviation-landmarks/index.php The emphasis is on the history of aviation at the vast air show as 2008 marks both the 60th anniversary of the first Farnborough International and the centenary of powered flight in Britain. There will be a flypast of iconic and historic planes that highlight the history of flight from its earliest days. It includes aircraft that appeared at the first show, in 1948. Mon, 14 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/14/paris-14-july-2008-euro-mediterranean-bastille-day-military-parade/index.php President Nicolas Sarkozy has invited soldiers from Mediterranean countries that include Libya, Syria and Israel to march in a Euro-Mediterranean Bastille Day military parade with European troops. The parade comes a day after the leaders of the same countries will be expected in Paris for a Euro-Mediterranean meeting. Sarkozy sees the summit and parade changes as a peace move. Some of France's European Union partners still have to be persuaded the new bloc is a good idea. Mon, 14 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/13/paris-13-jul-2008-france-hosts-mediterranean-summit/index.php The leaders of the 20 countries bordering the Mediterranean have been invited to the Jul 13 summit to talk about forming a European Union-like bloc. French President Nicolas Sarkozy announced the summit, one of the first official events of France's EU presidency, at a joint news conference in Rome with then Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi and Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero. Sarkozy is opposed to Turkey joining the European Union. Sun, 13 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/12/united-states-12-17-july-2008-naacp-holds-99th-annual-convention/index.php Cincinnati, Ohio, hosts the 99th annual convention of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. The theme is: "Power, Justice, Freedom, VOTE." With its leadership contest settled, the NAACP if now free to concentrate on rallying black citizens to vote in November and to plan for the NAACP centennial year in 2009. The Supreme Court decision on voter ID could complicate that drive. Presidential candidates Barak Obama and John McCain will address the convention. Sat, 12 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/11/united-states-11-july-2008-arizona-considers-charges-against-polygamist-leader-warren-jeffs/index.php A judge in Kingman will decide on Jul 12 if the shrinking charges in Arizona against Warren Jeffs, the leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, should shrink farther. The polygamist sect has been in the news following a raid in April on its "Yearning for Zion" ranch in Texas. The charges relate to the arranged marriages of underage girls to older men. Jeffs was convicted on similar charges and sent to prison in adjoining Utah in 2007. Fri, 11 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/09/berlin-9-july-2008-madame-tussauds-opens-new-museum-with-controversial-wax-hitler/index.php Madame Tussauds newest waxworks branch, which opens Jul 9, is causing the kind of controversy that should boost visitor numbers. Standing opposite former British prime minister Winston Churchill is none other than Adolf Hitler. The London Madame Tussauds gives the Nazi dictator a place in the chamber of horrors. In Berlin, he's been given a place on the history and politics floor, along with the Dalai Lama and Berlin mayor Klaus Wowereit. Wed, 09 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/07/japan-7-9-july-2008-g8-leaders-meet-in-resort-town-to-continue-debate-on-climate-change-and-african-/index.php Tokyo has announced that when the Group of Eight leaders meet in Tokado, Kokkaido, the debate on climate change will carry over from the G8 summit in 2007. Japan wants to see a framework that will ensure participation by the United States and China, which it refers to as the world's largest greenouse gas emitters, in measures to limit carbon dioxide emissions in the atmosphere beyond 2012 when the Kyoto protocol on climate change expires. Mon, 07 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/05/france-5-27-july-2008-revamped-95th-tour-de-france/index.php The 95th running of the gruelling 2200-mile cycle race, the Tour de France, begins in Brest, Brittany, and ends in Paris. The organizers have overhauled the scandal-ridden competition in an attempt to restore its prestige. No rider will be allowed to start in 2008 without agreeing to take part in a series of tests that will allow drug-testers to build a blood profile for each athlete. Sat, 05 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/05/germany-5-july-2008-germanys-first-holiday-flight-for-nudists/index.php Travel agency OssiUrlaub.de plans a trial nudist day trip from the eastern German town of Erfurt to the popular Baltic Sea resort of Usedom. The nudists will be able to start their holiday early by stripping off on the plane. It will cost them 499 euros (US $735). Sat, 05 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/05/united-kingdom-5-july-2008-british-national-health-service-turns-60/index.php The National Health Service Act was passed in 1946 and came into effect on 5 July 1948. The system turns 60 in 2008 under keen scrutiny. It was the workplace of the individuals who staged botched terror attacks in London and Glasgow in Jun 2007, and the anniversary will be a target date for media speculation on the NHS intentions of Britain's Labour Party Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Sat, 05 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/04/berlin-4-july-2008-united-states-opens-architecturally-controversial-embassy/index.php The United States opens its new embassy on the site of the Berlin Wall on US Independence Day. There's a good chance it will be dubbed "Fortress America" because of its security features, or "The Pancake" because of its stretched-out horizontal shape. Chancellor Angela Merkel and former president George H. W. Bush will speak at the opening, which will be combined with the embassy s annual Independence Day reception. Fri, 04 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/03/iran-3-july-2008-iran-air-flight-655-shot-down-20-years-ago/index.php Iranian Flight 655 was shot down by US missiles over the Gulf of Hormuz on 3 July 1988 during the Iran-Iraq war, killing its 290 passengers. The 20th anniversary comes at a time of increasing tensions between Washington and Terhran. Thu, 03 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/03/quebec-city-3-july-2008-francophone-canadian-city-holds-400th-birthday-party/index.php The City of Quebec was expecting the French president as a guest at the huge party it is planning to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the city's founding by Samuel de Champlain. Instead, French Prime Minister Fran ois Fillon will attend, with President Nicolas Sarkozy visiting later in the year. The visit could reveal where the lys e plans to stand on the issue of sovereignty for the Francophone province of Quebec. The President appears to have pulled back from supporting it. Thu, 03 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/07/01/france-1-july-2008-france-takes-european-union-helm/index.php When France takes over the 6-month rotating presidency of the European Union in 2008, the EU Common Agricultural Policy and the EU's role in the world were expected to be key issues. Now, the complications caused by Ireland's No vote in June on the reformed European constitution, called the Lisbon Treaty, are likely to push the other issues farther down the agenda. The whole of the French tenure could be devoted to formulating a "Plan B" so the treaty can go into force in 2009. Tue, 01 Jul 2008 05:07:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/30/canada-30-june-2008--safe-drug-injection-facility-faces-deadline/index.php The safe injection facility in the British Columbia city of Vancouver, known as InSite, is exempt from the Criminal Code as part of a five-year-old experiment to offer addicts in the neighborhood a safe place to shoot up. The facility is attached to a detox center. The experiment is due to end on Jun 30 unless Canada's Conservative government extends it. The signs are not promising. Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Conservative legislators are lukewarm about the initiative. Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/30/egypt-30-june---1-july-2008-au-leaders-meet-food-shortage-threat-wars-top-agenda/index.php The world food crisis threatening Africa is likely to be the pressing issue for African Union leaders when they meet in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh for the 11th AU summit. The official theme is, "Meeting Millennium Development Goals for Water and Sanitation." There is the question of whether the organization will tackle the election dispute in Zimbabwe or continue to hold the line that the vote was free and fair. Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/30/wellington-30-june-2008-new-zealand-buys-back-its-railway-ferry-systems/index.php New Zealand re-nationalizes its national railway and ferry operation, which was privatized in 1993, on Jun 30. The deal, which is going against the global trend of privatizing public assets, is the cornerstone of the Labour government's climate strategy. A statement from Finance Minister Michael Cullen in May said that the selling of the country's rail system in the early 1990s and the running down of the asset afterward "has been a painful lesson for New Zealand." Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/28/vatican-28-june-2008-christians-mark-second-millennium-of-st-paul-/index.php Christian denominations celebrate the second millenium of St. Paul, beginning 28 June 2008. Referred to as the Pauline Year, it ends on the saint's feast day on 29 June 2009. Many adherents plan to retrace his final journey to Rome. Sat, 28 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/27/london-27-june-2008-prime-minister-gordon-brown-first-year/index.php On 27 Jun 2008 Gordon Brown will have been prime minister of Britain for one year. The milestone invites retrospectives about his wins and losses since succeeding Tony Blair. Fri, 27 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/27/england-27-29-june-2008-spotlight-on-cows-at-2008-glastonbury-festival/index.php Music fans attending this year's Glastonbury festival in Somerset will be told to use biodegradable tent pegs instead of wire ones in an effort to protect grazing cattle, just two years after the Festival was canceled to allow cows to graze uninterrupted through the summer on the working farm where the event is staged. American singer Neil Diamond is one of Glastonbury's star turns in 2008, and the organizers are said to be negotiating with black rapper Kanye West. Fri, 27 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/27/london-27-june-2008-nelson-mandela-in-town-for-birthday-charity-concert/index.php Despite reported poor health and rare public appearances, former South African president and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Nelson Mandela will visit London for a charity concert in Hyde Park. It is timed to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the Free Mandela concert. That concert publicized demands for the release of Mandela, whose prisoner number was 46664, from jail. The proceeds from the concert will go to the 46664 charity, which raises money to fight AIDS. Mandela turns 90 on 18 Jul. Fri, 27 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/26/russia-26-27-june-2008-eu-summit-with-russia-hopes-of-wide-deal/index.php Dimitry Medvedev has spoken in favor of more market economy and for promoting civil liberties since he was elected Russian president in March. European Union leaders want to see his words translate into action at the 21st EU-Russia summit in Khanty-Mansiisk, Siberia. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/26/japan-26-27-june-2008-g8-foreign-ministers-meet/index.php The foreign ministers of the Group of Eight countries meet ahead of the G8 summit in July in Kyoto to decide on the issues that will be put before the leaders. The main leftovers from 2007 are Kosovo independence, the Iran nuclear standoff, Pakistan instability, Hamas-Fatah strife in the Palestinian territories and the resurgent Taliban in Afghanistan. Progress in Darfur could also be in the mix. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/26/berlin-26-june-2008-germany-marks-60th-berlin-airlift-anniversary/index.php On 26 Jun 1948, a United States Air Force plane landed at Tempelhof Airport with critical supplies for Berlin s population, starting the Berlin Airlift. The Allied humanitarian operation supplied some 2 million Berliners and the occupation forces before ending officially on 30 Sep 1949. The official commemoration is at Frankfurt International Airport, not Tempelhof, which might not see the 61st airlift anniversary. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/24/berlin-24-june-2008-chancellor-angela-merkel-hosts-ministerial-mideast-conference/index.php German Chancellor Angela Merkel hosts a ministerial conference aimed at building an effective police force and justice system in a future Palestinian state - with an optimistic long view that there will be a Palestinian state. Tue, 24 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/23/santiago-23-27-june-2008-chile-hosts-60th-annual-whaling-meeting/index.php The 1986 moratorium on commercial whaling is again at risk at the 60th annual International Whaling Commission meeting in Chile. At the 58th meeting supporters of commercial whaling outnumbered their opponents for the first time in the history of the now 76-member organisation. One possible protection for whales, with or without the ban, is an apparent decrease in demand for whale meat. Mon, 23 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/22/jerusalem-22-29-june-2008-dissident-bishops-gather-for-alternative-lambeth/index.php Conservative Anglican prelates plan a protest alternative gathering some six weeks ahead of the Church's Lambeth Conference, the once in a decade meeting of the denomination's 800-plus bishops. The plan for the alternative, the Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON), adds to the problems of the 80-million-strong Protestent church and its beleaguered head, Archbishop Rowan Williams. Sun, 22 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/20/france-20-june-2008-jean-marie-le-pen-born-80-years-ago/index.php The Frenchman best known as the founder and leader of his country's far right National Front party turns 80. He approaches his birthday in trouble with the law, but is unlikely to be spending it behind bars. He is on trial in Dec 2007 after condoning the Nazi occupation of his country, which he described in an interview with a right-wing magazine, Rivarol, as not particularly inhumane. Fri, 20 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/19/brussels-19-20-june-2008-slovenia-hosts-european-union-summit/index.php In December Slovenian Foreign Minister Dimitrij Rupel predicted that the "complicated processes" attached to the Kosovo dispute with Serbia and Russia "will be concluded by the end of our presidency." If he is right, the European Union leaders at this last summit of Slovenia's EU presidency will be free to move on to other priorities, the chief of which is ratification into force of the Lisbon Treaty that EU leaders signed in December. Thu, 19 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/18/scotland-18-29-june-2008-edinburgh-film-festival-moving-on/index.php The Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) is divorcing from the city's famed international cultural festival in August after a 60-year marriage. The film festival was founded in 1947. The festival organizers say that by moving to June the event can gain more exposure away from three other competing festivals in Edinburgh. Wed, 18 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/15/quebec-city-15-22-june-2008-catholics-gather-for-49th-international-eucharistic-congress/index.php Twelve thousand to 15,000 Catholic clergy and lay people from around the world will gather in the city for the 49th International Eucharistic Congress, which coincides with the provinces 400th anniversary. Sun, 15 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/14/spain-14-june-13-september-2008-expo-2008-an-in-between/index.php As befits an event with an environmental theme - "Water and Sustainable Development" - Expo 2008 in Zaragoza won't be rivalling previous world fairs for excess. The 1889 Exposition Universelle on the Champ de Mars in Paris and Chicago's "White City" expo in 1893 set such a high mark for excess that it has been hard for any modern expo to claim the crown. Sat, 14 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/14/argentina-14-june-2008--che-guevara-born-80-years-ago-/index.php The 80th birthdate of the late doctor-turned-revolutionary, Ernesto "Che" Guevara de la Serna, is unlikely to attract the same level of notice as the 40th anniversary of his death in 2007, but it could still cause a flood of print and TV retrospectives examining his legacy, and berets, T-shirts and other memorabilia bearing the Che brand. If he were alive today he might find himself branded as a terrorist. Sat, 14 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/14/edinburgh-14-june-2008-city-to-turn-pink-to-support-moonwalk/index.php Some 12,000 MoonWalkers will participate in a midnight Power Walking Challenge to raise funds for breast cancer, with the marathon and half marathon 26.2-mile route lit up in pink in a show of support for the fundraiser. Sat, 14 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/13/paris-13-june-2008-european-union-launches-mediterranean-union-includes-israel-turkey/index.php The controversial Mediterranean Union comes into being at a ceremony in Paris on 13 June. The new body will include 27 European Union states and Mediterranean states bordering the Bloc that include Israel and Turkey. It is seen as an alternative to letting Turkey into the Union. Fri, 13 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/13/ukraine-13-15-june-2008-russia-ukraine-celebrate-225th-anniversary-of-black-sea-fleet/index.php Russia and the Ukraine plan to mark the 225th anniversary of the Soviet-era Black Sea Fleet with lavish celebrations in Sevastopol on Ukraine's Crimean peninsula, through the two countries remain divided on issues that include the strategic port. Russian and Ukrainian sailors will participate, and the Ukranian authorities are preparing for the city jubilee. Catherine the Great annexed the Crimea in 1783 and established a Russian naval base at Sevastopol. Fri, 13 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/12/irish-republic-12-june-2008-ireland-holds-referendum-on-european-union-treaty/index.php The now 27-member European Union needs agreement on the rules and regulations by which it will govern itslef sooner rather than later, and Ireland is one of the few member countries willing to take a chance on putting the newly-formed EU Treaty to public vote. Many other members see a parliamentary vote on ratification as a safer bet for approval. Ireland's farmers are threatening to throw their weight against the treaty unless certain trade conditions are met. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/12/brussels-12-13-june-2008-nato-defense-ministers-meet-bush-initiatives/index.php NATO defense ministers meet in June, October and March. The issues on the agenda are likely to be the same at all three meetings, but ranked differently. If Washington is allowed to drive, the Allies could be pressed to firm up NATO commitments to projects initiated by President George W. Bush. The approach of the change of administration in the United States adds urgency to his agenda. Regardless of who is driving, iniatives to firm up cooperation with EU defense goals will be priorities. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/09/germany-9-june-2008-re-scheduled-franco-german-summit/index.php German newspapers attribute the postponement of the regular Franco-German summit from February to June in Straubing to tensions between German Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Nicolas Sarkozy over his attempts to create a Mediterranean Union modeled on the European Union. Sarkozy, openly hostile to Turkish accession to the European Union, sees the proposed bloc as a way of having Turkey join an alternative set-up and keeping it off the EU membership track. Mon, 09 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/06/united-states-6-10-june-2008-68th-scientific-sessions-of-american-diabetes-association-challenging-/index.php A challenge before the physicians and other medical professionals meeting for the 68th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association in San Francisco, California, is sorting out whether the conventional treatment for diabetes poses a deadly risk. Conflicting information from two recent studies has left some 20 million Americans with type 2 diabetes in limbo. Fri, 06 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/01/colombia-1-3-june-2008-oas-holds-38th-general-assembly-/index.php Government ministers and a few leaders from North, Central and South America and the Caribbean at the Organization of American States 38th General Assembly are likely to begin by applauding the organization for averting a war. Will they reconsider Cuba and Malvinas issues? Sun, 01 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/01/germany-1-june-2008-european-central-bank-marks-10th-birthday/index.php The 10th birthday of one of the world's most important central banks, the European Central Bank in Frankfurt, will be watched for announcements. The most anticipated one, particularly by France, is that a decision has been made on reform of the body responsible for monetary policy covering the Eurozone. To date, wrangling has prevented significant movement on the issue. Sun, 01 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/06/01/santiago-1-22-june-2008-cetacean-experts-gather-ahead-of-60th-meeting/index.php When cetacean experts gather ahead of the annual International Whaling Commission meeting (23-27 Jun), one of their sessions will look at the future of the organization. Conservation bodies are worried the IWC is at risk of extinction. Sun, 01 Jun 2008 05:06:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/31/world-31-may-2008-whos-world-no-tobacco-day/index.php The United Nations has set aside May 31 each year as World No Tobacco Day. In 2008 it follows closely on the World Health Organization's first ever global report on tobacco control. The WHO Report on the Global Tobacco Epidemic-2008, that says tobacco use killed 100 million people worldwide in the 20th century and could kill 1 billion people in the 21st. The date and report could increase pressure on the United States and other holdouts to ratify the WHO's new antitobacco treaty. Sat, 31 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/30/india-30-may-2008-prime-minister-opens-bangalore-international-airport/index.php Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh inaugurates the country's first greenfield airport, Bangalore International Airport, in Bangalore, Karnataka, the Silicon Valley of the country and capital of its information technology sector. An employee strike caused a postponement from March to May. Social activists and organizations plan to mark the occasion with a protest march. Fri, 30 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/28/sydney-28-30-may-2008-fifa-58th-congress-meets-under-sepp-blatter/index.php Some 2500 delegates and media from the 205 member nations of the F d ration Internationale de Football Association descend on Sydney for the 58th FIFA Congress. International football's "parliament" will meet under the still controversial chairmanship of Sepp Blatter, who was elected to a third term as FIFA president in May 2007. Wed, 28 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/28/pakistan-28-and-30-may-2008-pakistan-marks-10th-anniversary-of-nuclear-tests/index.php Pakistan observes the 10th anniversary of its nuclear tests amid concerns in the Western world and India about the possibility that Islamic extremists, sympathetic to the Taliban and al-Qaeda, could take control of Pakistan s nuclear arsenal. The nuclear weapons concerns increased with the instability related to the country's election and the assassination of former Pakistan prime minister Benazir Bhutto. Wed, 28 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/28/japan-28-30-may-2008-japan-un-focus-on-africa-at-ticad-iv/index.php The 2008 Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in Yokahama, hosted jointly by the Japanese government, the Global Coalition for Africa (GCA), the United Nations and the World Bank, meets with a focus on African development and environment. TICAD is held every five years. The findings from TICAD IV will feed into the agenda of the G8 summit in Tokyo in July. Japan has chosen African development as one of two main themes for the G8 leaders to discuss. Wed, 28 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/28/united-states-28-may-2008-dr-death-jack-kevorkian-born-80-years-ago-/index.php On his 80th birthday, Dr. Jack Kevorkian, the former medical pathologist known for his antics in support of voluntary euthanasia will be on parole from prison. In a speech at Florida University in January, he indicated he is not free to say much about euthanasia because of the conditions of his parole. At the same time, he made it clear he hasn't changed his mind about "assisted suicide," insisting he didn't cause death but ended suffering. Wed, 28 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/26/dakar-10-11-march-2008-oic-foreign-ministers-prepare-for-11th-summit/index.php The foreign ministers of the Organization of Islamic Conference meet to prepare for the 11th ordinary summit of OIC heads of state. Israel is an evergreen issue for OIC summits, and the question is whether developments in the so-called peace process will see it higher or lower than usual on the summit agenda the ministers will put together. Mon, 26 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/26/dakar-13-14-march-2008-senegal-hosts-11th-oic-summit/index.php News about an anticipated trade system for the body and an array of challenges await the leaders of the 57 member states of the Organization of Islamic Conference when they meet in Senegal. The challenges include preventing the breakup of Iraq, a lagging science project, Israel, and the fighting in Sudan, Somalia and other predominantly Muslim countries. Mon, 26 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/26/vienna-1-february-2008-opec-ministers-hold-special-meeting/index.php The oil ministers of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries decided at their meeting in December to keep output ceilings steady. They will be reviewing that decision at their 147th Extraordinary Meeting in February, then again in March. The news in January that prices have topped US $100 per barrel is likely to be a big factor in their decision. The United States, for one, is pressing for production increases, arguing that the high prices threaten to derail global growth. Mon, 26 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/26/vienna-5-march-2008-opec-ministers-meet-for-148th-ordinary-meeting/index.php The decision by oil ministers of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries in December to keep output ceilings steady will be reviewed at meetings in February and March. The Northern Hemisphere winter will be a new factor in the March deliberations of the 13-nation cartel. Mon, 26 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/26/pyongyang-26-february-2008-united-states-orchestra-to-perform-in-reculsive-north-korea/index.php The New York Philharmonic Orchestra has agreed to play a concert in February at the invitation of one of the world's most isolated nations. The trip to the North Korean capital will be the first significant cultural visit by Americans to a country consigned by Washington to the "axis of evil." Mon, 26 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/26/united-states-24-february-2008-academy-of-motion-picture-arts-and-sciences-holds-80th-awards-ceremon/index.php Political satirist and talk show host Jon Stewart hosts the 80th Academy Awards ceremony in Hollywood in 2008. If rumors that studio chiefs and screenwriters are about to end their three-month battle turn out to be true, then the ceremony is likely to proceed with its usual glitter and glamor. If not, there are likely to be picketers outside and few people inside. Mon, 26 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/26/pakistan-18-february-2008-volatile-pakistan-due-to-hold-postponed-parliamentary-election/index.php On Jan 3 Pakistan's Election Commission rescheduled the election planned for Jan 8 for six weeks, triggering charges from opposition parties that the postponement was an attempt by President Pervez Musharraf's ruling party to avoid almost certain defeat if the vote were held as scheduled. Mon, 26 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/25/mars-25-may-2008-nasa-phoenix-mars-lander-touches-down/index.php NASA's Mars Phoenix Lander is due to touch down on an icy plain on the Red Planet after a 423-million-mile journey. It will be the first ever landing in the arctic region of Mars. Once there, it will dig with a robotic arm into the ice and run laboratory tests to determine if the chemical environment beneath might favor microbial life. Evidence of vast amounts of underground ice were uncovered at both poles of the planet by NASA's orbiting Mars Odyssey spacecraft in 2002. Sun, 25 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/22/belgrade-22--24-may-2008-serbia-hosts-eurovision-song-contest/index.php When Serbia hosts the 53rd edition of the Eurovision Song Contest, which is second only to the soccer World Cup in the size and ardor of its television audience in Europe, its winning diva of 2007 could be singing for another country. Marija Serifovic, is being lined up to represent Switzerland a year after winning the contest for her native Serbia with the song, "Molitva." Thu, 22 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/22/italy-22-may-2008-italy-marks-30th-anniversary-of-legal-abortion/index.php Italy legalized abortion on 22 May 1978 and the furore hasn't died down. The confiscation of an aborted foetus by Italian police in February has rekindled the charged debate. The Radical Party is planning rallies across Italy in support of the law. Thu, 22 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT http://www.newsahead.com/preview/2008/05/21/moscow-21-may-2008-russia-hosts-champions-league-soccer-final-for-first-time/index.php Moscow hosts the first all-English final in the history of soccer's Champions League, and is gearing up for the arrival of some 50,000 fans from England. And it is the first time the final of football's most prestigious event -- after the FIFA World Cup -- will be played in Moscow. It is the farthest East the cup final has ever been played. The visa system could be designed to weed out England's infamous football hooligans so Russia only has its own to worry about. Wed, 21 May 2008 05:05:00 GMT