Bangkok - More than 850,000 Bangkok residents will be betting an estimated 56 million dollars on the upcoming World Cup football 2006 matches in Germany, with most of them convinced that Brazil will emerge the champions, an opinion poll disclosed on Wednesday.
According to an Assumption University ABAC opinion poll of 1,584 people in Bangkok and its surrounding suburbs, 63.8 per cent of those surveyed said they intended to watch live broadcasts of the World Cup that will be held in Germany from June 9 to July 9.
That may prove bad news for employee productivity in the Thai capital as the live broadcasts will be keeping many people up all night, thanks to the six hour time difference between Germany and Thailand.
The ABAC poll estimated that some 850,173 of the Bangkok football fans, aged over 13, would be gambling on the games, with total bets calculated at 2.14 billion baht (56.3 million dollars).
Of the self-professed gamblers, some 83 per cent said they liked to bet on the games because it added excitment to their viewing pleasure, while 32 per cent they did it to sharpen their analytical skills.
Nearly half, or 57.9 per cent of the respondents, said that Brazil was most likely to win the tournament, while 19.6 per cent were betting on the UK and only 12 per cent on Germany.
amazing facts about pearl harbor
Amazing facts about Pearl Harbor Attack
On Sunday, December 7th, 1941 the Japanese launched a surprise attack against the U.S. Forces stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. By planning his attack on a Sunday, the Japanese commander Admiral Nagumo, hoped to catch the entire fleet in port. As luck would have it, the Aircraft Carriers and one of the Battleships were not in port. (The USS Enterprise was returning from Wake Island, where it had just delivered some aircraft. The USS Lexington was ferrying aircraft to Midway, and the USS Saratoga and USS Colorado were undergoing repairs in the United States.)
In spite of the latest intelligence reports about the missing aircraft carriers (his most important targets), Admiral Nagumo decided to continue the attack with his force of six carriers and 423 aircraft. At a range of 230 miles north of Oahu, he launched the first wave of a two-wave attack. Beginning at 0600 hours his first wave consisted of 183 fighters and torpedo bombers which struck at the fleet in Pearl Harbor and the airfields in Hickam, Kaneohe and Ewa. The second strike, launched at 0715 hours, consisted of 167 aircraft, which again struck at the same targets.
At 0753 hours the first wave consisting of 40 Nakajima B5N2 "Kate" torpedo bombers, 51 Aichi D3A1 "Val" dive bombers, 50 high altitude bombers and 43 Zeros struck airfields and Pearl Harbor. Within the next hour, the second wave arrived and continued the attack.
When it was over, the U.S. losses were:
Casualties
USA: 218 KIA, 364 WIA.
USN: 2,008 KIA, 710 WIA.
USMC: 109 KIA, 69 WIA.
Civilians: 68 KIA, 35 WIA.
TOTAL: 2,403 KIA, 1,178 WIA.
Battleships
USS Arizona (BB-39) - total loss when a bomb hit her magazine. USS Oklahoma (BB-37) - Total loss when she capsized and sunk in the harbor. USS California (BB-44) - Sunk at her berth. Later raised and repaired. USS West Virginia (BB-48) - Sunk at her berth. Later raised and repaired. USS Nevada - (BB-36) Beached to prevent sinking. Later repaired. USS Pennsylvania (BB-38) - Light damage. USS Maryland (BB-46) - Light damage. USS Tennessee (BB-43) Light damage. USS Utah (AG-16) - (former battleship used as a target) - Sunk.
Cruisers
USS New Orleans (CA-32) - Light Damage. USS San Francisco (CA38) - Light Damage. USS Detroit (CL-8) - Light Damage. USS Raleigh (CL-7) - Heavily damaged but repaired. USS Helena (CL-50) - Light Damage. USS Honolulu (CL-48) - Light Damage.
Destroyers
USS Downes (DD-375) - Destroyed. Parts salvaged. USS Cassin - (DD-372) Destroyed. Parts salvaged. USS Shaw (DD-373) - Very heavy damage. USS Helm (DD-388) - Light Damage.
Minelayer USS Ogala (CM-4) - Sunk but later raised and repaired.
Seaplane Tender USS Curtiss (AV-4) - Severely damaged but later repaired.
Repair Ship USS Vestal (AR-4) - Severely damaged but later repaired.
Harbor Tug USS Sotoyomo (YT-9) - Sunk but later raised and repaired.
Aircraft 188 Aircraft destroyed (92 USN and 92 U.S. Army Air Corps.)
On Sunday, December 7th, 1941 the Japanese launched a surprise attack against the U.S. Forces stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. By planning his attack on a Sunday, the Japanese commander Admiral Nagumo, hoped to catch the entire fleet in port. As luck would have it, the Aircraft Carriers and one of the Battleships were not in port. (The USS Enterprise was returning from Wake Island, where it had just delivered some aircraft. The USS Lexington was ferrying aircraft to Midway, and the USS Saratoga and USS Colorado were undergoing repairs in the United States.)
In spite of the latest intelligence reports about the missing aircraft carriers (his most important targets), Admiral Nagumo decided to continue the attack with his force of six carriers and 423 aircraft. At a range of 230 miles north of Oahu, he launched the first wave of a two-wave attack. Beginning at 0600 hours his first wave consisted of 183 fighters and torpedo bombers which struck at the fleet in Pearl Harbor and the airfields in Hickam, Kaneohe and Ewa. The second strike, launched at 0715 hours, consisted of 167 aircraft, which again struck at the same targets.
At 0753 hours the first wave consisting of 40 Nakajima B5N2 "Kate" torpedo bombers, 51 Aichi D3A1 "Val" dive bombers, 50 high altitude bombers and 43 Zeros struck airfields and Pearl Harbor. Within the next hour, the second wave arrived and continued the attack.
When it was over, the U.S. losses were:
Casualties
USA: 218 KIA, 364 WIA.
USN: 2,008 KIA, 710 WIA.
USMC: 109 KIA, 69 WIA.
Civilians: 68 KIA, 35 WIA.
TOTAL: 2,403 KIA, 1,178 WIA.
Battleships
USS Arizona (BB-39) - total loss when a bomb hit her magazine. USS Oklahoma (BB-37) - Total loss when she capsized and sunk in the harbor. USS California (BB-44) - Sunk at her berth. Later raised and repaired. USS West Virginia (BB-48) - Sunk at her berth. Later raised and repaired. USS Nevada - (BB-36) Beached to prevent sinking. Later repaired. USS Pennsylvania (BB-38) - Light damage. USS Maryland (BB-46) - Light damage. USS Tennessee (BB-43) Light damage. USS Utah (AG-16) - (former battleship used as a target) - Sunk.
Cruisers
USS New Orleans (CA-32) - Light Damage. USS San Francisco (CA38) - Light Damage. USS Detroit (CL-8) - Light Damage. USS Raleigh (CL-7) - Heavily damaged but repaired. USS Helena (CL-50) - Light Damage. USS Honolulu (CL-48) - Light Damage.
Destroyers
USS Downes (DD-375) - Destroyed. Parts salvaged. USS Cassin - (DD-372) Destroyed. Parts salvaged. USS Shaw (DD-373) - Very heavy damage. USS Helm (DD-388) - Light Damage.
Minelayer USS Ogala (CM-4) - Sunk but later raised and repaired.
Seaplane Tender USS Curtiss (AV-4) - Severely damaged but later repaired.
Repair Ship USS Vestal (AR-4) - Severely damaged but later repaired.
Harbor Tug USS Sotoyomo (YT-9) - Sunk but later raised and repaired.
Aircraft 188 Aircraft destroyed (92 USN and 92 U.S. Army Air Corps.)
national geographic quiz contest nri kids on top
National Geographic Channel Quiz Contest - Non Resident Indian (NRI) Amazing kids on Top
Indian-American students have made a clean sweep of this year's National Geographic Bee by winning the top three places in the prestigious quiz contest.
Twelve-year-old Bonny Jain of Moline, Illinois, emerged the winner in the Bee on Wednesday, clinching a $25,000 college scholarship and also a lifetime membership of National Geographic Society.
Neera Sirdeshmukh, 14, of Nashua, New Hampshire, came in second place, while 13-year-old Yeshwanth Kandimalla from Georgia came third.
Jain managed to answer 26 out of the 27 questions posed to him. For the winning question, he was asked to name the mountains that extend across much of Wales, from the Irish Sea to the Bristol Channel, to which he correctly answered "Cambrian Mountains."
Jain, who represented Wilson Middle School, had finished fourth in the Geography bee last year.
The eighth-grader is also a three-time winner of The Dispatch and The Rock Island Argus' Regional Spelling Bee and will compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington next week.
Nearly five million kids take part in the Bees organised by the National Geographic Society every year at schools across the US. The competition is aimed at generating interest in Geography among students and also increase public awareness about the subject.
However, various surveys have pointed to "an astounding lack of geographic knowledge" on the part of the American public.
A recent study by the National Geographic-Roper Public Affairs found that half of Americans between 18 and 24 could not locate the state of New York on a map.
Indian-American students have made a clean sweep of this year's National Geographic Bee by winning the top three places in the prestigious quiz contest.
Twelve-year-old Bonny Jain of Moline, Illinois, emerged the winner in the Bee on Wednesday, clinching a $25,000 college scholarship and also a lifetime membership of National Geographic Society.
Neera Sirdeshmukh, 14, of Nashua, New Hampshire, came in second place, while 13-year-old Yeshwanth Kandimalla from Georgia came third.
Jain managed to answer 26 out of the 27 questions posed to him. For the winning question, he was asked to name the mountains that extend across much of Wales, from the Irish Sea to the Bristol Channel, to which he correctly answered "Cambrian Mountains."
Jain, who represented Wilson Middle School, had finished fourth in the Geography bee last year.
The eighth-grader is also a three-time winner of The Dispatch and The Rock Island Argus' Regional Spelling Bee and will compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington next week.
Nearly five million kids take part in the Bees organised by the National Geographic Society every year at schools across the US. The competition is aimed at generating interest in Geography among students and also increase public awareness about the subject.
However, various surveys have pointed to "an astounding lack of geographic knowledge" on the part of the American public.
A recent study by the National Geographic-Roper Public Affairs found that half of Americans between 18 and 24 could not locate the state of New York on a map.
da vinci code movies amazing truth
The Da Vinci Code Truth and amazing facts.
know what you are thinking: "If I see one more thing on The Da Vinci Code…!"
Sorry. If I didn’t comment on it, you would wonder why.
So here it is. But don't expect a lot of in-depth analysis, because you don't really need a lot to understand what is going on here.
The movie, based upon Dan Brown's best seller, comes out this Friday, May 19, exactly when we will be in Rockford, Illinois for our second training conference. I find the timing to be extremely interesting.
The subtitle for The Da Vinci Code should be "Did God Really Say?" for that is the underlying theme of both book and movie. It first attempts to undercut your confidence in God's Word and then quickly points you to another gospel. The basic plot is that the whole of traditional Christianity is based upon a false textual base, handed down to us because of a deep patriarchal conspiracy—one that is keeping all of us from knowing the real truth about Jesus and God, good and evil, and pretty much everything else. From beginning to end, however, Brown has spun an elaborate cobweb of deceit that should sound vaguely familiar.
Do you remember? You've actually read this story before—in the garden of Eden (Genesis 3).
Let's think about what happened there.
Satan comes to Eve and does three things:
* First, he challenges the veracity of God's Word (did God really say?)
* Second, he puts forth his counter truth claim (you will not surely die)
* And finally, he informs Eve that there is a foul conspiracy afoot; that God is keeping her from "secret knowledge" which, if she would just listen and follow Satan's inside information, she would become like God, knowing this secret knowledge herself. And, of course, she would live happily ever after.
Sure, Dan Brown synthesized early works such as The Templar Revelation and Holy Blood, Holy Grail, but in reality, his plot is just an elaboration of the line of thought found in the Original Lie.
It must be part of our nature to love a conspiracy story because we are fascinated by them. Satan must have understood this when he approached Eve. Now Brown hands us the same old stuff:
* "Did God really say?" Brown offers a string of lies to make you think the Scriptures are not to be trusted and are simply the writings of man that have evolved over the years. (For example, we are told that Constantine, based upon a political and anti-feminine agenda, determined which Gospels, out of 80, would be included in the Bible. The reality is that both Iranaeus and Origen, writing well before Constantine, confirm the canonicity of the four Gospels and at no point were 80 "Gospels" considered for inclusion in the New Testament.)
* "You will not surely die." Brown presents his counter truth claims, in part, by dredging up the Gnostic Gospels (The Gospel of Thomas, The Gospel of Mary, The Gospel of Philip, etc.) and making them appear to be the real deal in contrast to Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. He then proposes all sorts of heretical notions that, in reality, even the Gnostic Gospels themselves don't support.
* "God knows, that when you eat, your eyes will be opened." Brown finally crafts his elaborate conspiracy theory, butchering, along the way, virtually all historical evidence. Satan painted God as the conspirator, hiding the truth from Eve, and Brown paints the Church as the conspirator, hiding the truth about Jesus from the whole of Christianity. It turns out, says Brown, that Jesus was married, sired a line of half-divines still alive today, and wanted Mary, his wife, to be the head of the Church. All of us simpletons have evidently been duped by the Church for thousands of years. Satan painted himself as the one who knew the real story. Brown paints a long list of those who have known the real truth, but have been constantly hounded by the conspirators. Leonardo was one of those good guys, hiding clues to the truth in his works. Here is where we get the nonsensical notion that Da Vinci painted Mary in the place of John at the Last Supper.
* "When you eat, your eyes will be opened." This is the "secret knowledge" that Satan offered. His promise was a lie and so is Brown's. By the way, one of the key tenets of Gnosticism, which Brown is exalting, was its belief in salvation through "secret knowledge" rather than the blood of Christ.
Brown, I'm sure is laughing all the way to the bank. Forty million copies of his book have been sold, and that is before the movie royalties.
Oh, how we love conspiracy theories!
By the way, there is something else about a good conspiracy theory. When people buy it, the facts usually don't really matter. In fact, the more the "conspirator" denies the accusations, the more we are sure they are guilty. So don't be surprised if you find people looking at you with a suspicious eye when you try to point out all of the boldface lies and distortions in Brown's web of deceit. You, they conclude, must also be part of the conspiracy too.
Nothing really changes, does it?
P.S. If you are interested in some good books that walk you through the list of Da Vinci Code lies versus the truth, check out these authors: Josh McDowell; Erwin Lutzer; Richard Abanes; Olson and Miesel; Darrell Bock; and more.
know what you are thinking: "If I see one more thing on The Da Vinci Code…!"
Sorry. If I didn’t comment on it, you would wonder why.
So here it is. But don't expect a lot of in-depth analysis, because you don't really need a lot to understand what is going on here.
The movie, based upon Dan Brown's best seller, comes out this Friday, May 19, exactly when we will be in Rockford, Illinois for our second training conference. I find the timing to be extremely interesting.
The subtitle for The Da Vinci Code should be "Did God Really Say?" for that is the underlying theme of both book and movie. It first attempts to undercut your confidence in God's Word and then quickly points you to another gospel. The basic plot is that the whole of traditional Christianity is based upon a false textual base, handed down to us because of a deep patriarchal conspiracy—one that is keeping all of us from knowing the real truth about Jesus and God, good and evil, and pretty much everything else. From beginning to end, however, Brown has spun an elaborate cobweb of deceit that should sound vaguely familiar.
Do you remember? You've actually read this story before—in the garden of Eden (Genesis 3).
Let's think about what happened there.
Satan comes to Eve and does three things:
* First, he challenges the veracity of God's Word (did God really say?)
* Second, he puts forth his counter truth claim (you will not surely die)
* And finally, he informs Eve that there is a foul conspiracy afoot; that God is keeping her from "secret knowledge" which, if she would just listen and follow Satan's inside information, she would become like God, knowing this secret knowledge herself. And, of course, she would live happily ever after.
Sure, Dan Brown synthesized early works such as The Templar Revelation and Holy Blood, Holy Grail, but in reality, his plot is just an elaboration of the line of thought found in the Original Lie.
It must be part of our nature to love a conspiracy story because we are fascinated by them. Satan must have understood this when he approached Eve. Now Brown hands us the same old stuff:
* "Did God really say?" Brown offers a string of lies to make you think the Scriptures are not to be trusted and are simply the writings of man that have evolved over the years. (For example, we are told that Constantine, based upon a political and anti-feminine agenda, determined which Gospels, out of 80, would be included in the Bible. The reality is that both Iranaeus and Origen, writing well before Constantine, confirm the canonicity of the four Gospels and at no point were 80 "Gospels" considered for inclusion in the New Testament.)
* "You will not surely die." Brown presents his counter truth claims, in part, by dredging up the Gnostic Gospels (The Gospel of Thomas, The Gospel of Mary, The Gospel of Philip, etc.) and making them appear to be the real deal in contrast to Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. He then proposes all sorts of heretical notions that, in reality, even the Gnostic Gospels themselves don't support.
* "God knows, that when you eat, your eyes will be opened." Brown finally crafts his elaborate conspiracy theory, butchering, along the way, virtually all historical evidence. Satan painted God as the conspirator, hiding the truth from Eve, and Brown paints the Church as the conspirator, hiding the truth about Jesus from the whole of Christianity. It turns out, says Brown, that Jesus was married, sired a line of half-divines still alive today, and wanted Mary, his wife, to be the head of the Church. All of us simpletons have evidently been duped by the Church for thousands of years. Satan painted himself as the one who knew the real story. Brown paints a long list of those who have known the real truth, but have been constantly hounded by the conspirators. Leonardo was one of those good guys, hiding clues to the truth in his works. Here is where we get the nonsensical notion that Da Vinci painted Mary in the place of John at the Last Supper.
* "When you eat, your eyes will be opened." This is the "secret knowledge" that Satan offered. His promise was a lie and so is Brown's. By the way, one of the key tenets of Gnosticism, which Brown is exalting, was its belief in salvation through "secret knowledge" rather than the blood of Christ.
Brown, I'm sure is laughing all the way to the bank. Forty million copies of his book have been sold, and that is before the movie royalties.
Oh, how we love conspiracy theories!
By the way, there is something else about a good conspiracy theory. When people buy it, the facts usually don't really matter. In fact, the more the "conspirator" denies the accusations, the more we are sure they are guilty. So don't be surprised if you find people looking at you with a suspicious eye when you try to point out all of the boldface lies and distortions in Brown's web of deceit. You, they conclude, must also be part of the conspiracy too.
Nothing really changes, does it?
P.S. If you are interested in some good books that walk you through the list of Da Vinci Code lies versus the truth, check out these authors: Josh McDowell; Erwin Lutzer; Richard Abanes; Olson and Miesel; Darrell Bock; and more.
fifa world cup 2006 fact sheet for us citizens
FIFA World Cup 2006 Fact Sheet for U.S. CitizensBy U.S. Department of State - FIFA World Cup 2006 Fact Sheet.
The 2006 FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) World Cup will take place in twelve cities in Germany, from June 9 to July 9, 2006. For additional information on the FIFA World Cup, including information on hotel accommodations, tickets, transportation, and advice for spectators, please see the official World Cup 2006 website at http://www.fifaworldcup.com/ or the U.S. Soccer Federation’s website at http://www.ussoccer.com/. American citizens planning to travel to Germany to see or participate in the Games should visit the U.S. Mission to Germany’s World Cup website at http://worldcup2006.usembassy.de/.
Security Assessment:
While there have been no specific, credible terrorist threats to the FIFA 2006 World Cup, in this post-September 11 world, the threat from international terrorist groups at major public events is always a principal concern. This includes the periods immediately before and after these events. Al-Qaida’s demonstrated capability to carry out sophisticated attacks against sizable structures – such as ships, large office buildings, embassies, and hotels – makes it one of the greatest potential threats to the World Cup. Threats could also emanate from extremists who may not be directly controlled by al-Qaida, as occurred in the Madrid train bombings on March 11, 2004, and the subway and bus bombings in London on July 7 and 21, 2005.
Domestic extremist groups, supporting various political causes, may attempt to disrupt the World Cup through demonstrations or other activities. A variety of demonstrations and physical violence have been attributed to right-wing and left-wing extremist groups and individuals in the past. While the German security services are highly skilled at protecting large events and controlling demonstrations, even peaceful events can turn violent, and Americans are therefore advised to avoid any areas of public protest. The risk of violence and hooliganism associated with soccer matches is also present. German security services have been working with a variety of other countries and international agencies to prevent travel of known soccer hooligans; however, large, potentially emotionally-charged sporting events can be unpredictable and carry the risk of unexpected violent incidents. Americans are advised to remain alert and aware of their surroundings at all times and avoid aggressive individuals or altercations.
One way to make your foreign travel safer and more enjoyable is to inform yourself of what you will find when you arrive overseas. The Department of State publishes a Consular Information Sheet for Germany that includes information on usual immigration practices, health conditions, minor political disturbances, usual currency and entry regulations, as well as crime and security – including risk of terrorism and drug penalties. Consular Information Sheets include information designed to help you make your own decisions about travel.
For additional information on safety/security in Germany, please see the following:
Worldwide Caution Public Announcement
U.S. Embassy Berlin’s Warden Messages
Department of State's "A Safe Trip Abroad"
Department of State’s "Top 10 Tips for Travelers"
Before You Go:
You will need a valid U.S. passport to travel. German border officials routinely require Americans entering the country to have six months of validity remaining on their passports. Schengen rules, which govern European Union countries, require that a passport be valid for a minimum of three months after the date of departure from a Schengen country. For information on how to get or replace a U.S. passport, please see the Department of State's webpage on Passport Services and Information.
Generally speaking, a U.S. citizen traveling on a U.S. passport does not need a German visa for tourist or business stays of up to three months. Germany is considered a "Schengen country,” which allows travelers to cross into other Schengen countries without passing through border/immigration controls. American citizens traveling as tourists may usually remain in Germany and any other signatory to the Schengen Agreement for a total of 90 days within a six-month period. For more information about visas for Germany, please see the Embassy of Germany's website.
The Department of State urges you to register with the U.S. Embassy in Berlin, preferably before you travel, via our Internet-Based Registration System. This will help us locate you in the event there is a general emergency or if someone in the United States needs to reach you about an urgent matter. Travel registration is a free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country. Registration allows you to record information about your overseas country of residence or upcoming trip abroad. You should leave a copy of your itinerary, a copy of your passport data pages, and your contact information with family or friends.
Germany, like all Schengen countries, requires all visitors to have insurance in case of medical or other emergencies. The Department of State urges Americans traveling overseas to ensure they have adequate medical insurance, including insurance for medical evacuations. Medicare recipients should know that Medicare does not cover medical expenses abroad. For more information, see the State Department’s flyer Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad.
German customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Germany of items such as professional equipment, commercial samples, advertising materials and/or goods for exhibition and fair purposes. Tax-free shopping rules are strictly enforced. Please contact the Embassy of Germany in Washington, DC, or one of Germany's consulates in the United States for more information regarding customs requirements, including information on carrying prescription drugs into Germany.
In order to prevent ticket scalping, tickets for the 2006 World Cup are strictly controlled and are issued with the name of the ticket holder. Ticket-holders must present ID with the ticket when entering the stadium. If the name on the ID and the ticket do not match, the individual may be denied entry to the event. Soccer fans are advised to avoid buying tickets from third parties or bidding on tickets posted for auction on sites such as eBay. More information about tickets can be found on FIFA’s World Cup website, including information about transferring or returning tickets.
While You're There:
Mobile and stationary information points called “Fanbotschafts” or “Fan Embassies” will be available in each World Cup host city. These “Fanbotschafts” are intended to assist travelers with inquiries such as where to find accommodation or what to do in case of theft, injury, illness or other difficulties requiring assistance. A detailed guide for soccer fans and World Cup travelers can be found at the German Football Federation’s (DFB) fan website at http://www.fanguide2006.org/.
In addition to the U.S. Embassy in Berlin, there are five U.S. consulates throughout Germany (see contact information at the end of this document). U.S. consuls stand ready to assist Americans in a variety of emergency situations overseas, including lost and stolen passports, illness, temporary destitution, crime, or arrest. If an American citizen becomes seriously ill or injured abroad, a U.S. consular officer can assist in locating appropriate medical services and informing family or friends. If necessary, a consular officer can also assist in the transfer of funds from the United States. However, payment of hospital and other expenses is the responsibility of the traveler. Your medical insurance company can advise you on whether your policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. For information on German dentists and doctors, please see the List of Doctors and Dentists in Germany who have expressed interest in serving American citizen clients.
If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen, you will need to apply for a replacement at one of the U.S. Consulates General in Germany before continuing your travel abroad or returning to the United States. For more information, please see the State Department’s Frequently Asked Questions or the U.S. Mission in Germany's instructions. Note that the Consulate General in Frankfurt will offer expanded hours during the World Cup in June and July 2006.
American citizens who need financial assistance should explore commercial options such as Western Union or other money wire services, credit card advances, or automatic teller machines (ATMs). In emergencies, the U.S. Embassy can help you contact family and friends to have them send money. For more information, please see the Department of State's webpage on Providing Financial Assistance to Americans Abroad and its link to the Department's Overseas Citizens Services Trusts.
Please note that consular officers in our Embassy in Berlin or in any of the five Consulates General in Germany cannot act as travel agents, banks, lawyers, investigators, post offices, or law enforcement officers. They cannot find you employment, get you residence or driving permits, act as interpreters, search for missing luggage, or settle disputes with hotel managers. They can, however, tell you how to get help on these and other matters.
Americans traveling or living in Germany are subject to the German legal system and can be arrested for violating local law. The Department of State or the U.S. Embassy in Berlin cannot have an American released from prison. However, U.S. consular officers can provide other types of assistance. For more information, please see the Department's flyer on Assistance to Americans Arrested Abroad. If you seek an attorney in Germany, please see the Mission's list of lawyers who have expressed interest in representing American clients.
Despite the best preparation, crises like natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or mass-transportation accidents can occur. For information on what you can do in a crisis and how the U.S. Government can assist you, please see the Department of State’s webpage on Crisis Awareness.
Useful Contact Information:
U.S. Embassy in Berlin
tel. from within Germany: 030-8305-0
tel. from the U.S.: 001-30-8305-0
consular inquiries (recorded information): 030-832-9233
consular section fax: 030-8305-1215
consular section address: Clayallee 170, 14195 Berlin
U-Bahn stop: Oskar-Helene-Heim
U.S. Consulate General in Frankfurt (covering the venues of Frankfurt, Kaiserslautern and Stuttgart)
tel. from within Germany: 069-7535-0
tel. from the U.S.: 001-69-7535-0
address: Giessener Str. 30
U.S. Consulate General in Hamburg (covering the venues of Hamburg and Hanover)
tel. from within Germany: 040-411 71-351
tel. from the U.S.: 001-40-411-71-351
address: Alsterufer 27/28
U.S. Consulate General in Leipzig
tel. from within Germany: 0341-213-840
tel. from the U.S.: 001-341-213-840
address: Wilhelm-Seyfferth-Straße 4
U.S. Consulate General in Duesseldorf (covering the venues of Gelsenkirchen, Dortmund and Cologne)
tel. from within Germany: 0211-788-8927
tel. from the U.S.: 001-211-788-8927
address: Willi-Becker-Allee 10
U.S. Consulate General in Munich (covering the venues of Munich and Nuremberg)
tel. from within Germany: 089-2888-0
tel. from the U.S.: 001-89-2888-0
address: Königinstraße 5
U.S. Consular Agency in Bremen
tel. from within Germany: 0421-301-5860
tel. from the U.S.: 001-0421-301-5860
address: Birkenstrasse 15
Department of State's Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management
within U.S. and Canada: 1-888-407-4747
from overseas: 001-202-501-4444
Department of State's National Passport Information Center
within the U.S.: 1-877-487-2778
TDD/TTY from within the U.S.: 1-888-874-7793
American citizens overseas should contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for information about passports.
Local Authorities
Emergency assistance for English-speaking visitors in Germany:
Police (while in Germany): 110
Ambulance/Fire Department (while in Germany): 112
Useful Links
U.S. Mission to Germany's website
http://www.usembassy.de/
U.S. Mission Germany's World Cup website
http://worldcup2006.usembassy.de/
U.S. Department of State's website about travel and living abroad
http://travel.state.gov/
U.S. Department of State's website for passport information http://travel.state.gov/passport/index.html
U.S. Soccer Federation’s website
http://www.ussoccer.com/
Official FIFA World Cup 2006 website
http://www.torino2006.org/index.php?lang=en
The 2006 FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) World Cup will take place in twelve cities in Germany, from June 9 to July 9, 2006. For additional information on the FIFA World Cup, including information on hotel accommodations, tickets, transportation, and advice for spectators, please see the official World Cup 2006 website at http://www.fifaworldcup.com/ or the U.S. Soccer Federation’s website at http://www.ussoccer.com/. American citizens planning to travel to Germany to see or participate in the Games should visit the U.S. Mission to Germany’s World Cup website at http://worldcup2006.usembassy.de/.
Security Assessment:
While there have been no specific, credible terrorist threats to the FIFA 2006 World Cup, in this post-September 11 world, the threat from international terrorist groups at major public events is always a principal concern. This includes the periods immediately before and after these events. Al-Qaida’s demonstrated capability to carry out sophisticated attacks against sizable structures – such as ships, large office buildings, embassies, and hotels – makes it one of the greatest potential threats to the World Cup. Threats could also emanate from extremists who may not be directly controlled by al-Qaida, as occurred in the Madrid train bombings on March 11, 2004, and the subway and bus bombings in London on July 7 and 21, 2005.
Domestic extremist groups, supporting various political causes, may attempt to disrupt the World Cup through demonstrations or other activities. A variety of demonstrations and physical violence have been attributed to right-wing and left-wing extremist groups and individuals in the past. While the German security services are highly skilled at protecting large events and controlling demonstrations, even peaceful events can turn violent, and Americans are therefore advised to avoid any areas of public protest. The risk of violence and hooliganism associated with soccer matches is also present. German security services have been working with a variety of other countries and international agencies to prevent travel of known soccer hooligans; however, large, potentially emotionally-charged sporting events can be unpredictable and carry the risk of unexpected violent incidents. Americans are advised to remain alert and aware of their surroundings at all times and avoid aggressive individuals or altercations.
One way to make your foreign travel safer and more enjoyable is to inform yourself of what you will find when you arrive overseas. The Department of State publishes a Consular Information Sheet for Germany that includes information on usual immigration practices, health conditions, minor political disturbances, usual currency and entry regulations, as well as crime and security – including risk of terrorism and drug penalties. Consular Information Sheets include information designed to help you make your own decisions about travel.
For additional information on safety/security in Germany, please see the following:
Worldwide Caution Public Announcement
U.S. Embassy Berlin’s Warden Messages
Department of State's "A Safe Trip Abroad"
Department of State’s "Top 10 Tips for Travelers"
Before You Go:
You will need a valid U.S. passport to travel. German border officials routinely require Americans entering the country to have six months of validity remaining on their passports. Schengen rules, which govern European Union countries, require that a passport be valid for a minimum of three months after the date of departure from a Schengen country. For information on how to get or replace a U.S. passport, please see the Department of State's webpage on Passport Services and Information.
Generally speaking, a U.S. citizen traveling on a U.S. passport does not need a German visa for tourist or business stays of up to three months. Germany is considered a "Schengen country,” which allows travelers to cross into other Schengen countries without passing through border/immigration controls. American citizens traveling as tourists may usually remain in Germany and any other signatory to the Schengen Agreement for a total of 90 days within a six-month period. For more information about visas for Germany, please see the Embassy of Germany's website.
The Department of State urges you to register with the U.S. Embassy in Berlin, preferably before you travel, via our Internet-Based Registration System. This will help us locate you in the event there is a general emergency or if someone in the United States needs to reach you about an urgent matter. Travel registration is a free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country. Registration allows you to record information about your overseas country of residence or upcoming trip abroad. You should leave a copy of your itinerary, a copy of your passport data pages, and your contact information with family or friends.
Germany, like all Schengen countries, requires all visitors to have insurance in case of medical or other emergencies. The Department of State urges Americans traveling overseas to ensure they have adequate medical insurance, including insurance for medical evacuations. Medicare recipients should know that Medicare does not cover medical expenses abroad. For more information, see the State Department’s flyer Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad.
German customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Germany of items such as professional equipment, commercial samples, advertising materials and/or goods for exhibition and fair purposes. Tax-free shopping rules are strictly enforced. Please contact the Embassy of Germany in Washington, DC, or one of Germany's consulates in the United States for more information regarding customs requirements, including information on carrying prescription drugs into Germany.
In order to prevent ticket scalping, tickets for the 2006 World Cup are strictly controlled and are issued with the name of the ticket holder. Ticket-holders must present ID with the ticket when entering the stadium. If the name on the ID and the ticket do not match, the individual may be denied entry to the event. Soccer fans are advised to avoid buying tickets from third parties or bidding on tickets posted for auction on sites such as eBay. More information about tickets can be found on FIFA’s World Cup website, including information about transferring or returning tickets.
While You're There:
Mobile and stationary information points called “Fanbotschafts” or “Fan Embassies” will be available in each World Cup host city. These “Fanbotschafts” are intended to assist travelers with inquiries such as where to find accommodation or what to do in case of theft, injury, illness or other difficulties requiring assistance. A detailed guide for soccer fans and World Cup travelers can be found at the German Football Federation’s (DFB) fan website at http://www.fanguide2006.org/.
In addition to the U.S. Embassy in Berlin, there are five U.S. consulates throughout Germany (see contact information at the end of this document). U.S. consuls stand ready to assist Americans in a variety of emergency situations overseas, including lost and stolen passports, illness, temporary destitution, crime, or arrest. If an American citizen becomes seriously ill or injured abroad, a U.S. consular officer can assist in locating appropriate medical services and informing family or friends. If necessary, a consular officer can also assist in the transfer of funds from the United States. However, payment of hospital and other expenses is the responsibility of the traveler. Your medical insurance company can advise you on whether your policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. For information on German dentists and doctors, please see the List of Doctors and Dentists in Germany who have expressed interest in serving American citizen clients.
If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen, you will need to apply for a replacement at one of the U.S. Consulates General in Germany before continuing your travel abroad or returning to the United States. For more information, please see the State Department’s Frequently Asked Questions or the U.S. Mission in Germany's instructions. Note that the Consulate General in Frankfurt will offer expanded hours during the World Cup in June and July 2006.
American citizens who need financial assistance should explore commercial options such as Western Union or other money wire services, credit card advances, or automatic teller machines (ATMs). In emergencies, the U.S. Embassy can help you contact family and friends to have them send money. For more information, please see the Department of State's webpage on Providing Financial Assistance to Americans Abroad and its link to the Department's Overseas Citizens Services Trusts.
Please note that consular officers in our Embassy in Berlin or in any of the five Consulates General in Germany cannot act as travel agents, banks, lawyers, investigators, post offices, or law enforcement officers. They cannot find you employment, get you residence or driving permits, act as interpreters, search for missing luggage, or settle disputes with hotel managers. They can, however, tell you how to get help on these and other matters.
Americans traveling or living in Germany are subject to the German legal system and can be arrested for violating local law. The Department of State or the U.S. Embassy in Berlin cannot have an American released from prison. However, U.S. consular officers can provide other types of assistance. For more information, please see the Department's flyer on Assistance to Americans Arrested Abroad. If you seek an attorney in Germany, please see the Mission's list of lawyers who have expressed interest in representing American clients.
Despite the best preparation, crises like natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or mass-transportation accidents can occur. For information on what you can do in a crisis and how the U.S. Government can assist you, please see the Department of State’s webpage on Crisis Awareness.
Useful Contact Information:
U.S. Embassy in Berlin
tel. from within Germany: 030-8305-0
tel. from the U.S.: 001-30-8305-0
consular inquiries (recorded information): 030-832-9233
consular section fax: 030-8305-1215
consular section address: Clayallee 170, 14195 Berlin
U-Bahn stop: Oskar-Helene-Heim
U.S. Consulate General in Frankfurt (covering the venues of Frankfurt, Kaiserslautern and Stuttgart)
tel. from within Germany: 069-7535-0
tel. from the U.S.: 001-69-7535-0
address: Giessener Str. 30
U.S. Consulate General in Hamburg (covering the venues of Hamburg and Hanover)
tel. from within Germany: 040-411 71-351
tel. from the U.S.: 001-40-411-71-351
address: Alsterufer 27/28
U.S. Consulate General in Leipzig
tel. from within Germany: 0341-213-840
tel. from the U.S.: 001-341-213-840
address: Wilhelm-Seyfferth-Straße 4
U.S. Consulate General in Duesseldorf (covering the venues of Gelsenkirchen, Dortmund and Cologne)
tel. from within Germany: 0211-788-8927
tel. from the U.S.: 001-211-788-8927
address: Willi-Becker-Allee 10
U.S. Consulate General in Munich (covering the venues of Munich and Nuremberg)
tel. from within Germany: 089-2888-0
tel. from the U.S.: 001-89-2888-0
address: Königinstraße 5
U.S. Consular Agency in Bremen
tel. from within Germany: 0421-301-5860
tel. from the U.S.: 001-0421-301-5860
address: Birkenstrasse 15
Department of State's Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management
within U.S. and Canada: 1-888-407-4747
from overseas: 001-202-501-4444
Department of State's National Passport Information Center
within the U.S.: 1-877-487-2778
TDD/TTY from within the U.S.: 1-888-874-7793
American citizens overseas should contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for information about passports.
Local Authorities
Emergency assistance for English-speaking visitors in Germany:
Police (while in Germany): 110
Ambulance/Fire Department (while in Germany): 112
Useful Links
U.S. Mission to Germany's website
http://www.usembassy.de/
U.S. Mission Germany's World Cup website
http://worldcup2006.usembassy.de/
U.S. Department of State's website about travel and living abroad
http://travel.state.gov/
U.S. Department of State's website for passport information http://travel.state.gov/passport/index.html
U.S. Soccer Federation’s website
http://www.ussoccer.com/
Official FIFA World Cup 2006 website
http://www.torino2006.org/index.php?lang=en
japanese art of bonsai plants - amazing weird stuff
Japanese art of bonsai Plants amzing or weird Stuff
Bonsai is the art of growing trees and plants, kept small by being grown in a pot and by the use of skilled pruning, formed to create an aesthetic shape and the illusion of age, although many bonsai trees are quite old and simply show their age in miniature form. The Chinese art of penjing is very similar to and is the precursor of the Japanese art of bonsai.
david blaine breathtaking stunt Take a deep breath. David Blaine's latest stunt is spending a week living in an acrylic sphere filled with water.
Take a deep breath. David Blaine's latest stunt is spending a week living in an acrylic sphere filled with water.
The 33-year-old magician, shirtless and with an oxygen tube in his mouth, slid into his snow globe-like "human aquarium" Monday at Lincoln Center. In a week, he will remove the device and attempt to hold his breath underwater longer than the record of eight minutes, 58 seconds.
He also will try to escape from 68 kilograms of chains and handcuffs during the breath-holding finale, which will air live in a two-hour ABC special, David Blaine: Drowned Alive, on May 8 (8 p.m. EDT).
"As a kid, I always was obsessed with Houdini," Blaine explained Monday.
"I don't think about death, but I am prepared for it," he said, adding that his only fear is "the fear of the unknown."
Blaine said he started training in December, with some help from U.S. Navy SEALS. He lost 50 pounds so his body would require less oxygen.
The water in the sphere will be kept at a balanced temperature to help keep his core temperature near 37 C. His gear includes a diving helmet that allows two-way communication with his support team.
Blaine invites visitors to stop by and wave at him. The water should be nice and clear; he will be fed and, uh, relieve himself by tubes.
His previous feats of endurance include balancing on a small platform for 35 hours, being buried alive in a see-through coffin for a week and surviving inside a massive block of ice for 61 hours. In 2003, he fasted for 44 days in a suspended acrylic box over the Thames River in London.
International Symbol of Marriage
On April 21, 2006, After 5 years of heated debate, the Commission on Human Rights approved the new International Symbol of Marriage:
netaji subhas chandra bose - controversy of death - indian freedom fighter
In a new twist to the controversy surrounding the disappearance of freedom struggle icon of india Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose in 1945, a probe panel has concluded that he did not die in an air crash as concluded by earlier inquiry commissions, but the government begged to differ.
The Justice M.K. Mukherjee Commission concluded that Netaji did not die in an air crash on Aug 18, 1945, as is widely believed. It said that the ashes lying in Renkoji Temple in Japan are not those of Netaji.
The government, however, did ‘not agree’ with the findings of the panel, Home Minister Shivraj Patil told parliament Wednesday.
Minister of State for Home S. Regupathy tabled the three-volume report in parliament.
The commission’s conclusion was arrived at after nearly six years of probe that took it to Russia, Taiwan and Japan. Although the governments there cooperated with the probe body, it found no evidence to support the belief among a section of Netaji supporters that he was taken to Siberia and killed at the instance of the then Soviet leader Joseph V. Stalin.
The findings go against much of the conclusions, including the belief of Netaji’s daughter, Anita Pfaff, who believes that her father is no more and that it is time to leave behind the various theories and controversies and move on.
Associated with the Mukherjee probe, she said in an interview in January this year: ‘Unless some fantastically new evidence comes up, if I look at the evidence available to me, he did not survive.
‘I have been present at the interview of some of the survivors of the plane crash, including some Japanese officers, more than 20 years ago, and their story sounded quite consistent, credible and reasonable.’
The Mukherjee probe was set up May 14, 1999 under the Commissions of Inquiry Act to investigate the alleged disappearance of Bose at the height of World War II. The commission submitted its report Nov 8, 2005 and this should normally have been submitted to parliament by May 7.
The panel was the third probe body that upturned some of the findings of the two previous ones - headed by Shah Nawaz Khan, who served under Netaji in the Indian National Army (INA) and Justice G.D. Khosla.
The only conclusion that Justice Mukherjee agreed was that Netaji was no more - he would have been 108 years old now.
The Mukherjee Commission’s findings did not satisfy those seeking conclusive evidence and proof of the circumstances under which he disappeared or died. Among them has been the All India Forward Bloc, a constituent of the Left Front in West Bengal.
Subroto Basu, Netaji’s nephew and a Forward Bloc Lok Sabha member, said: ‘On the basis of this commission’s findings, I cannot perform ‘tarpan’ (last rites) of my uncle.’
He gave notice for a discussion in parliament. ‘Report is now before the people. It is clear that Netaji did not die in the air crash as the nation has been told since 1945. The government must give reasons for rejecting these findings,’ he told IANS.
Among the theories and claims that the Mukherjee panel rejected as ‘figment of imagination’ and ‘lacking in conclusive evidence’ was that he was ‘murdered’ in the Red Fort Aug 15, 1945, af
ter being arrested at INA’s training camp and brought home secretly from Singapore.
Another claim was that he was Swami Shradhananda living at Shoulmari Ashram and died in Dehradun in 1977.
Two other claims that the commission entertained, but rejected were that he died either at Sheopurkalan in Madhya Pradesh or Faizabad in Uttar Pradesh.
budhiya singh - youngest kids runner india
Budhiya Singh - Youngest kids runner india - Win Limca Book of Records by covering 65 km from Puri to Bhubaneswar in 7 hours.
Even as child marathon prodigy Budhia Singh is hogging the headlines for running long distance at such a tender age, he may earn another distinction by becoming the youngest in the athletic world to go through a dope test.“The doctors have suggested dope testing for Budhia who ran such a long distance”, R. S. Mishra, chairman of the Child Welfare Commitee, Khurda district, said after presenting the medical report on Budhia to Women and Child Welfare Minister Pramila Mallick.
Mishra said the dope test could be conducted in New Delhi or any centre recognised by Sports Authority of India. The four doctors medical team, which had examined Budhia, has raised many concerns on health of the child. “Further opinion can be given after availability of investigation reports like MRI of wrist joint, spine, both knee and ankle joints and dope testing”, the medical report said.
The chief medical officer of Capital Hospital and member of the medical team, Sugat Kar, was surprised to find the incredible stamina the boy possessed. Kar said, “We didn’t have any scope to look into this factor during medical examination. This is a highly specialised subject. It needs further research. Any way it is a routine test which we have suggested for Budhia.”Budhia last Tuesday entered the Limca Book of Records by covering 65 km from Puri to Bhubaneswar in 7 hours. The organiser as well as his coach Biranch Das attracted criticism for making the child run the long distance.
the da vinci code movie release in india posponded
Protests over the movie "The Da Vinci Code," due to release worldwide on Friday, escalated as Christian groups recently planned boycotts in an attempts to block or shorten screenings.
The controversial film stars Tom Hanks and is based on Dan Brown's best-selling novel. It explores the idea that Jesus Christ married Mary Magdalene and had children whose descendants are alive today.
In India, the government Tuesday put a temporary hold on the movie's release because of complaints, although it had been set for release in India on Friday and had already been cleared by the national censor board.
In South Korea, a Christian group requested for an injunction to block screenings, but a court ruled Tuesday its request lacked merit.
The Christian Council of Korea, an umbrella group of 63 South Korean Protestant denominations, said it respected the ruling but would lead a boycott of the movie because the movie they believe defiles the sanctity of Jesus Christ and distorts facts.
In Thailand, Christian groups demanded that government censors cut out the conclusion of the movie that says Jesus still has heirs alive today. The censor board has not yet replied to the request and the movie is scheduled to start running Thursday.
In Athens, some 200 religious protesters, waving crucifixes and Greek flags, demonstrated Tuesday in protest of the movie.
"All religions merit respect, so why don't they show respect in this case instead of attacking all that we hold sacred?" said Athanasios Papageorgiou, president of St. John the Theologian group in Peania, east of Athens.
"I've read the book. It's despicable," he added. "The Muslims for one cartoon burnt anything, so what should we do?"
Philippine censors approved an adult rating for the movie but stopped short of rating it "X" because "it does not constitute a clear, express or direct attack on the Catholic church or religion" and "does not libel or defame any person."
The National Council of Churches in Singapore also had requested a ban of the movie while planning lectures to refute aspects of it and the book on which it is based. The censorship board gave the movie an NC16 rating, barring viewers under 16, arguing that "only a mature audience will be able to discern and differentiate between fact and fiction."
amazing truck art pictures
Amazing Truck art Pictures you won't believe! This is a painting competetion held in Germany. Its a pure ART OF LIVING.
This is the First Prize winner amazing truck photo.
Became Indian Member of Parliament - India amazing political facts
Became Indian Member of Parliament (MP) and Enjoy Benifits - India amazing political facts
Monthly Salary: 12,000
Expense for Constitution per month: 10,000
Office expenditure per month: 14,000
Daily BETA during parliament meets : 500
Charge for 1 class (A/C) in train : Free(For any number of times - All over India)
Charge for Business Class in flights : Free for 40 trips / year (With wife or PA)
Rent for MP hostel at Delhi: Free
Electricity costs at home: Free up to 50,000 units
Local phone call charge: Free up to 1,70,000 calls.
TOTAL expense for a MP per year: 32,00,000
TOTAL expense for 5 years : 1,60,00,000
For 534 MPs, the expense for 5 years : 8,54,40,00,000 (nearly 855 cores)
(Note: The above expenditure is excluding the bribery & Scandals…??!?!?)
And they are elected by THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, by the largest demoCRAZY in the world, not intruded into the parliament on their own or by any qualification.
This is how all our tax money is been swallowed and price hike on our regular commodities.......
Think of the great democracy we have.............
Monthly Salary: 12,000
Expense for Constitution per month: 10,000
Office expenditure per month: 14,000
Daily BETA during parliament meets : 500
Charge for 1 class (A/C) in train : Free(For any number of times - All over India)
Charge for Business Class in flights : Free for 40 trips / year (With wife or PA)
Rent for MP hostel at Delhi: Free
Electricity costs at home: Free up to 50,000 units
Local phone call charge: Free up to 1,70,000 calls.
TOTAL expense for a MP per year: 32,00,000
TOTAL expense for 5 years : 1,60,00,000
For 534 MPs, the expense for 5 years : 8,54,40,00,000 (nearly 855 cores)
(Note: The above expenditure is excluding the bribery & Scandals…??!?!?)
And they are elected by THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, by the largest demoCRAZY in the world, not intruded into the parliament on their own or by any qualification.
This is how all our tax money is been swallowed and price hike on our regular commodities.......
Think of the great democracy we have.............
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
LinkWithin
