In space news, stars found forming in galactic outer rim. Located in the constellation Hydra, 15 million light years away, the Southern Pinwheel galaxy, or M83, seems to be welcoming new stars. A NASA space telescope and a ground-based observatory have identified images which appear to be stars that have formed in space previously thought to be barren of the molecular gases necessary for their development. Lead researcher Mr. Frank Bigiel from the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in Germany stated, “It is absolutely stunning that we find such an enormous number of young stars up to 140,000 light years away from the center of M83.” We tip our hats to all scientists and astronomers involved in this remarkable discovery! The more we know about our universe, the more we realize how magical it really is. May our Earth continue to be a part of this cosmic beauty and wonder.
Ghana, Brazil Sign Pact On Energy, Agric
In world news, Brazil and Ghana collaborate. Brazil and Ghana signed four agreements designed to promote Ghana’s development of agro energy, the planting of forests, and overcoming AIDS. Ghana’s President J.A. Kufuor stated that Brazil had greatly succeeded in increasing her food production through agriculture, science and technology, and that developing countries were looking to Brazil for leadership. Brazilian President Lula da Silva so far has visited more than 20 African nations as part of Brazil’s international development aid program. Our sincere appreciation goes to Brazil and President Lula da Silva, and God’s blessings for your generous support of developing nations. May Africa shine in abundance and glory!
Iranian student wins special prize at Spain’s Peace and Cooperation Award
In peace news, Iranian student excels at Spain’s Peace and Cooperation School Awards. Eight-year-old Iranian student, Shaqayeq Motamedifar, received the prestigious Peace and Cooperation Award in Spain as well as an honorary diploma and 200 euros. The young student is a member of Iran’s Institute for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults. Featuring 4,000 works from 37 countries, the contest’s goals are to help make schools throughout the world more conscious of human rights and steps toward a peaceful world. Congratulations, Shaqayeq, on this honor. May Heaven bless all young people to cultivate harmony in the world.
Forget carbon: you should be checking your water footprint
In environmental news, a web site brings awareness about our water footprint. In the Netherlands, the University of Twente, in collaboration with the UNESCO-IHE Institute for Water Education, maintains the web site to help eco-friendly consumers be aware of their water footprint. For example, one learns from www.waterfootprint.org that 1 kilogram of barley has a water footprint of 1,300 liters, while 1 kilogram of beef has a water footprint of 16,000 liters! Groceries, clothing, stationery, and electronics are indexed and evaluated with the web site’s water footprint calculator. What an innovative idea! Kudos, University of Twente and the UNESCO-IHE Institute for Water Education! May all participate in meaningful efforts to save water, one of our greatest resources on Earth.
Spiral Diner & Bakery brings vegan food to Oak Cliff
In culinary news, vegan diner and bakery opens in Dallas, USA. Set inside a 100-year-old building with a fashionable interior design, Spiral Diner and Bakery offers customers delicious vegan cuisine. Restaurant proprietor Ms. Sara Tomerlin said that at least half of the customers are not vegetarian (vegan) but are curious about the life-affirming diet. Spiral uses vegan products in all its dishes and as many certified organic ingredients as possible. The restaurant also emphasizes recycling, and a percentage of their earnings is donated to benefit humans, animals and the environment. Well done, Ms. Sara Tomerlin and the Spiral Diner and Bakery, for offering the delectable vegan cuisine. With vegetarian (vegan) dining establishments abound, it’s just getting more convenient nowadays to GO VEG!
Supreme Master Television Fly-In News RSS
May 10, 2008
UN landmark disability treaty enters into force
FN… Treaty ratified to protect rights of people with disabilities. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has come into effect. The convention, signed by 127 countries, ensures that existing rights are fully implemented for the 650 million people with disabilities around the world.
Our grateful appreciation, United Nations, for helping ensure a just and loving society for all! Blessed be all countries in regarding the disabled with dignity, love, and respect.
Kids Help to Save Trees Canceling Thousands of Catalogs
SAVE OUR PLANET…US school opts out of catalogs to save trees. Teachers and students from The Park School in Brookline, Massachusetts have cancelled over 4,000 print catalogs by using a free online service at www.catalogchoice.org. Their one endeavor saved 47 trees and over 25,000 gallons of water. Nearly 500,000 people in the US have now signed up at CatalogChoice.org and collectively have opted out of over 5 million catalogs. This equates to taking approximately 6,000 cars off the road over one year.
Hats off, Park School and the many US participants, and a big thanks CatalogChoice for making this green service available. May many people benefit our life-giving trees with sustainable choice.
Carbon-free diet attracts support
SAVE OUR PLANET…The Scottish Fife Diet is reducing carbon footprints. Inspired by the “100-mile Diet” that originated in Vancouver, Canada, Mike Small and his family are now six months into an eating plan that includes only local, seasonally-grown food from their 100 square mile region in Fife, Scotland. With a goal of reducing greenhouse gases through their largely plant-based diet, 200 local residents so far have adopted the Fife Diet, and more land is being allotted for a community garden. Duncan McLaren of Friends of the Earth Scotland stated, “Food accounts for about a quarter of household greenhouse gas emissions. Most of that comes from the methane that comes from animal production. So a diet like this, which is quite low in meat, is definitely good for the environment, is good for the climate.”
Bravo, Mike Small and all Fife residents, who through your acts are bringing us closer to a healthy, green planet. May we all be inspired toward individual actions that collectively, can make a big difference for the future of our Earth.
Australia pledges $3m for Burma
FN…Assistance continues to pour into Myanmar, also known as Burma. The government, which has officially approved aid coming into the country, also announced its own funding of US$5 million toward humanitarian aid. With a devastating number of casualties as well as tens of thousands of people missing, along with an estimated one million people homeless, the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund has pledged funds that will be based on an assessment of need. Australia has promised US$2.8 million, and Thailand immediately sent supplies and an initial US$100,000. Cambodia has offered US$50,000. Sri Lanka pledged US$25,000, while the Philippines is sending in a medical team. Slovenia joined her European neighbors in offering US$77,000. The United States increased her assistance by US$3 million. Israel’s aid agency Israid sent a highly trained search and rescue team along with a team of doctors and nurses. The Canadian province of Manitoba pledged US$99,000. Both Globalgiving.org and aidmatrix.org in the US have launched special websites to allow Americans to make tax deductible contributions to be forwarded to organizations working to assist the cyclone victims.
Our heartfelt thanks, all donors and relief workers from around the globe. Blessed be your dedicated efforts to bring assistance to the people of Myanmar. We join the world in conveying our prayers for the cyclone victims' well-being and comfort as they work to restore the stability of their everyday lives.
Supreme Master Ching Hai wants to convey this message of gratitude to all governments, organizations and relief workers from every corner of the world:
“Thank you, all the international help that brings care and necessities to afflicted victims. Thank you all the relief workers for taking time and forsaking your own comfort, even traveling great distance on unfavorable roads and conditions to bring love and assistance to people in time of need. May Heaven bless you abundantly for your generosity and noble sacrifice.”
Tabla legend Kishan Maharaj
FN… Legendary percussionist Kishan Maharaj will be remembered. India’s legendary hand drum, or tabla, player, Pandit Kishan Maharaj has passed away at age 85. Known for his early talent in playing cross-rhythms and creating multifaceted sounds, Pandit Maharaj delighted countless audiences with his solo performances as well as his accomplished accompaniments. Pandit Kishan Maharaj was also recognized by his country with the Padma Vibhushan, which is India’s second highest civilian honor.
Many of the nation’s tabla players today owe their training to their beloved Pandit Kishan Maharaj. The world will truly miss a great shining star. With our deepest condolences to Pandit Maharaj’s family and friends, may his soul rest in Heaven’s eternal love and light.
Public Service to meet 50% women representivity by 2009
FN… South Africa continues toward a goal of 50% women in public service. Recent research revealed that women currently hold 33% of all senior management positions in government. This represents a significant increase from 7% in 1995. Minister of Public Services and Administration, Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, expressed her optimism that the country’s goal of placing women in 50% of all senior public offices could be met by 2009.
Bravo, South Africa, for your efforts and achievements in a governance of equality. May the richly unique contributions of all who serve your nation bring her people evermore comfort, opportunity and prosperity.
Latin Americans to hold food crisis summit
SAVE OUR PLANET…Latin nations hold summit to address food crisis. Hosted by Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega, presidents and representatives of 15 South and Central American countries, the meeting’s outcome included an approved declaration to boost food production through increased funding and agricultural development. An ‘oil-for-food’ fund has been proposed by Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who donated US$100 million last month for the purchase of staple grains to address the food crisis. The fund would go toward buying supplies and increasing cereal grain production.
We express our sincere appreciation, all participants, for your commitment to finding solutions in providing adequate food for your people. With God’s blessing, may your fruitful meetings bring about abundance, food security, and peace for every Latin nation.
Chinese orchestra plays for Pope
FN…Pope Benedict XVI welcomes the China Philharmonic Orchestra to the Vatican. The Chinese musicians were led by philharmonic founder Deng Rong, daughter of the late Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping who in the 1980s helped facilitate the resuming of open worship for Catholics in China. Following the concert, His Holiness the Pope highlighted music’s unifying effect, stating, “Music, and art in general, can serve as a privileged instrument,...a means attainable by all for valuing the universal language of art.”
We thank Your Holiness for the Vatican’s hospitality in hosting this enriching exchange with China. Our very best wishes for further harmonious relations.
Berlusconi swears in as Italian premier
FN…Silvio Berlusconi officially assumes office as Italy’s Prime Minister. After being re-elected for the third time, Silvio Berlusconi will once again take over the bell that is used during Cabinet meetings by premiers, receiving it this time from outgoing Prime Minister Romano Prodi. Mr. Berlusconi has already presented a list of Cabinet ministers to President Napolitano, which includes the appointment of four women.
Our applause joins that of your fellow countrypersons for your newly resumed role, Mr. Berlusconi! We also extend a respectful thanks to Prime Minister Prodi for his years of service. May your tenure be fruitful and the future of Italy bright.
Cowen elected new Irish premier
FN… Former finance minister assumes office as prime minister of Ireland. On Wednesday, the Dáil, or Irish parliament, confirmed Brian Cowen as new Taoiseach. Mr Cowen received full support from all three parties in the government and a standing ovation as he took office. Regarding his new post, the prime minister said, “I accept the honor with a genuine sense of humility. That sense is engendered in large part by my love for Ireland. This is a wonderful country. We are a fortunate people.”
Congratulations, Mr. Cowen, on your new role! May your leadership further the spirit of unity and peace among all in the lovely Emerald Isle.
Cyclone in Burma due to climate change: CSE
SAVE OUR PLANET…Cyclone Nargis is indication of climate change. According to the Center for Science and Environment (CSE), the recent destructive cyclone Nargis in Myanmar, also known as Burma, with its massive toll on human life, is likely the result of climate change. Citing the United Nation’s climate change report, CSE’s Director, Ms Sunita Narain, stated, “Nargis is a sign of things to come. In 2007, Bangladesh was devastated by the tropical cyclone Sidr. The victims of these cyclones are climate change victims.” Mr. Narain went on to call for developed nations to more urgently address greenhouse gas emissions, to help mitigate the catastrophic effects of unstable weather patterns for countries with rain-dependent agriculture.
Our deepest thanks, Ms. Narain and CSE, for these vital observations. We pray that all of humanity quickly joins together to turn the tide on climate change and save lives on our Earth.
Humming praises for the wild bee
SAVE OUR PLANET… Growing trend to support the wild bee. According to the National Research Council, native bee populations have diminished dramatically following an unknown colony collapse disorder (CCD) that caused a decline of millions of colonies of bees. Due to their importance in preserving ecological balance through pollination of crops, plants and flowers, agriculturists are now encouraging the restoration of native bees by reducing the use of pesticides on their crops and plants.
We are glad to hear of this positive trend, growers! We commend your life-sustaining efforts. May Heaven protect the vital wild bees to flourish in abundance, preserving the health and beauty of our world.
Bakery Gives Wheatberries to Customers to Grow Local Flour
SAVE OUR PLANET… US bakery gives out wheat seeds. Hungry Ghost Bakery in Massachusetts is giving people wheat berries (seeds) to grow their own 10 feet by 10 feet plots of wheat, in part to offset the effects of soaring grain prices. The owners, Jonathan Stevens and Cheryl Maffei, are inspired to bake organic goods using locally grown grains instead of having it delivered from hundreds of miles away.
What an economically and environmentally-sound idea to involve the community in their own local harvest! May Heaven shower fertile blessings on this grain growing project.
Ministry provides funds for energy saving projects
SAVE OUR PLANET... Energy saving projects receive grants in Âu Lạc (Vietnam). The nation’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce is providing 25-40% of the necessary funding for the development of energy-efficient measures such as solar energy installations. Through its Commercial Energy Efficiency Program with a total budget of US$1.15 billion, the department has approved 86 projects so far, with plans to approve 200 more.
Kudos, Âu Lạc, for your proactive encouragement of sustainable energy in so many businesses. May their green endeavors be reflected in the preserved verdant beauty of your nation.
McCain, Senate Republicans Want EPA To Review Ethanol Mandates
SAVE OUR PLANET…US senators call for a waiver of ethanol mandates. Presidential candidate Senator John McCain joined 23 fellow Republican Party members in requesting that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) waive or modify its mandate to more than quadruple US ethanol production by the year 2022. Senator McCain summed up the lawmaker’s concerns, stating, “This subsidized (ethanol) program — paid for by taxpayer dollars — has contributed to pain at the cash register, at the dining room table, and a devastating food crisis throughout the world.”
We applaud your thoughtfulness and recommendations, senators. May all leaders exercise similar consideration as we take meaningful steps toward a sustainable future.
Supreme Master Television Extra-Positive News RSS
May 10, 2008
Germany Says U.S. Must Cut Biofuel Subsidies to Help Rainforest
SAVE OUR PLANET... German Environment Minister Sigmar Gabriel calls for global standards to prevent deforestation and pollution, thus ensuring truly viable growth of biofuel crops.
'Turkey to increase Iran investment'
Turkish State Minister Kursad Tuzmen heads a 60-member trade delegation for a visit to Iran.
US urges peace talks in Bolivia
The United States expresses support for Bolivian unity and the path of peaceful dialog regarding autonomy in Santa Cruz province.
Canada bans smoking in prisons
Canada enacts a complete ban on cigarette smoking in federal prisons to ensure a safe, healthy and smoke-free environment for all.
Bulgaria Celebrates St. George's Day
Bulgarians celebrate Gergyovden, the day of St. George, to commemorate a saint honored by both Christians and Muslims.
Japan Yemen hostages to be freed: tribal chief
Two Japanese women tourists detained in Yemen were safely released in less than a day.
Rallying cry from frog stronghold
SAVE OUR PLANET…Conservationists form an organization to protect and preserve the unique native reptiles and amphibians in the Dumfries and Galloway districts of Scotland.
Australian platypus genome a link to evolution
Researchers in the US, UK, and Australia have mapped the genome sequence of the unique platypus, helping to explain its combined avian, reptilian, and mammalian features.
Syariah court allows Siti Fatimah Tan Abdullah to return to Buddhism
In an historical religious court ruling in Malaysia, Siti Fatimah Tan Abdullah, who previously converted to the Islamic faith for marriage, was allowed to return to Buddhism.
