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China Breaks Olympic Promise

Reporters are converging on Beijing to begin coverage of the 2008 Olympics starting  on 8/8/2008. To host the games, the Chinese government assured the International Olympic Committee that journalists and press from across the globe would have open Internet access, removing the effects of a firewall that censors numerous sites from public view across the country. The New York Times reports that despite initial denials, the Internet is being censored at the Olympic Press Centers.

This news comes as another unfortunate example of the Chinese government reneging on the pledges made to host the games in the first place. Clear blue skies and an improvement on their human rights record were some of the other pledges made. According to the Times article, President Bush has met with Chinese activists to discuss the situation. Many are boycotting the games to express their disapproval; however, the President has said he would attend the games and use the gathering as an opportunity to openly bring messages of freedom to Chinese officials and citizens.  With a little more than one week left before the games, it will take a miraculous effort on China’s part to win over the hearts of the world for the global games.

Area Rugs: Versatility and Functionality for Your Home

There are many functions for area rugs and many benefits that come along with the purchase. For instance, rugs protect the flooring beneath them. All types of flooring from hardwood to tile to carpet are protected by the rugs.

By having a rug pad under every rug, whether it is a shag rug, bamboo rug or any other types, it will keep the rug from sliding around which will protect you, your family and any guests from tripping. Rug pads are especially necessary for the elderly. Loose rugs are often the reason many older people trip and fall.

In addition to these functions, having outdoor rugs can add space to your home. When an outdoor area such as a patio is decorated and functioning, people are more likely to spend time there which will add another room onto your home. By creating a usable outdoor space with an area rug, you will have the extra space you need when your house is full.

These are just a few of the reasons to get area rugs but the list could go on and on. Besides being easy to clean, they can add to your personal style and make an aesthetic appeal to your senses. And don’t forget about the comfort and warmth they provide your feet!

Tough Travel Thanks to Hurricane Dolly

Hurricane Dolly tore up the Texas and Mexico border today, and secured a place in history as the season’s first hurricane in the Gulf. News reports have documented over 60,000 people are without power with many seeking safety and shelter. Even after Dolly leaves the area and the storm clears, the cloudy future meteorologists are predicting may make travel this hurricane season even more precarious. National Geographic News reveals that the formation of the currently Category 2 Hurricane Dolly is nothing unusual for July; however, Dolly wasn’t the only serious weather at the time. Meteorologist Jeff Masters was quoted as saying, “On July 19, Bertha, Cristobal, and Dolly were all active tropical weather systems. . . That’s the first time three named systems have been active on the same day since the practice of naming hurricanes began in 1950.” Using due diligence and checking weather reports for travel is a good idea for what may be one of the most active hurricane seasons the U.S. has ever seen.