06-28-04 - (Baghdad, Iraq-AP) In a surprise move, the US-led coalition has transferred power two days ahead of schedule. The decision is apparently aimed at catching insurgents off-guard.
Iraqi officials are not wasting any time. On Monday, the new interim government was been formally sworn in, just six hours after the transfer. In the swearing-in ceremony, members of interim Prime Minister Iyad Allawi's new government each stepped forward to place their right hand on the Muslim holy book. They pledged to accept their new duties with sincerity and without prejudice. Behind them stood a row of Iraqi flags. Iraq's interim president says the new leaders face "a challenge and a burden." He asked for God's help.
Most world leaders are welcoming the surprise news of the early transfer of power in Iraq today, but few expect it will bring an end to the escalating violence there. Both supporters and opponents of the war say they wish the new administration well as it faces major challenges in the months ahead.
Poland has been a staunch supporter of the war effort. That country's deputy defense minister said that the new government's taking of responsibility "is very good."
Opponents of the war, France and Germany, are also hailing the transfer as a very important milestone in the move toward a self-ruling Iraq.
The Philippines is congratulating the new Iraqi government. Russian and Syrian analysts are not as optimistic however, saying the transfer won't change anything, and violence will continue to increase.
Posted: 05/08/13 - The Sherman Public Library is very excited about our upcoming Summer Reading Club for children and teens. Children ages birth-11 can Dig into Reading and join the Youth Summer Reading Club. The theme for the Teen Summer Reading Club this year is Beneath the Surface and it is open to teens ages 12-18. Read More
Posted: 05/07/13 - DURANT, Okla. – Regent Terry Matlock will deliver remarks at Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s Spring Commencement, scheduled for Saturday, May 11, at Paul Laird Field. The ceremony (for all schools) will begin at 10 a.m. A reception will follow at 11:30 a.m. in the Visual & Performing Arts Center. Read More
Posted: 05/06/13 - SHERMAN, TEXAS—Members of the Austin College Class of 2013 are counting down the days until graduation—with both excitement and trepidation. Austin College President Marjorie Hass will present diplomas to more than 340 bachelor’s degree candidates and 18 Master of Arts in Teaching degree candidates who will take part in graduation events May 18 and 19 on campus. Read More
