If you’ve doubted whether social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter can make a tweet’s worth of difference in the world, consider the situation in Iran.
After the apparent election fraud in that country, protesters have organized huge demonstrations by using computers and cell phones, despite attempts by the regime to shut down those channels. Since foreign journalists are being prevented from covering the protests, much of what we know about what’s happening in Iran comes via such messages.
Here’s hoping the demonstrations against the repressive Iranian regime (and the recent election loss by Hezbollah in Lebanon) signal a shift toward moderation in the Middle East. That would be proof that the text message is mightier than the sword.
For the latest on the Tehran demonstrations, click here.
- Here in Redding, youths can participate in a different sort of event on Saturday. Youthfest ’09 was rescheduled after it was rained out last month. The free event, which runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Library Park downtown, features food, live music and booths with information about teen health and volunteerism.
- Interested in a career change? Sign up for free career orientation meetings to be presented July 11 in Redding and Red Bluff. The Shasta College Economic and Workforce Development Department will provide information about career training programs and financing options. The Red Bluff session will be 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., in room 7802, at the Red Bluff Campus at 900 Palm St. The meeting in Redding will be from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., in room 8220, at the Shasta College Health Sciences & University Center downtown. Seating is limited; reservations must be made by July 7. For more info, call the EWD office at 225-2700 or click here.
Tips appreciated: Send news tidbits to steveb.anewscafe@gmail.com.
