In Iraq, It's Already July 9th
In the Age of Terrorism, the Rule Is: Celebrate Early, If At All
by Terry Jones, The Guardian

As we mark the first full week of Iraqi sovereignty, the world is only just beginning to appreciate the full significance of the historic handover ceremony, which was hurried through in secret two days before it was due and without any of the top people present.

It is now clear that this may well be a blueprint for all future state occasions and festivities in this age of terrorism. President Bush is expected to order that, from now on, July 4 should be celebrated at least two days earlier, although the White House will reserve the right to declare July 4 in June or even May if need be. The president also will have full powers to announce that Thanksgiving has been and gone before any terrorist has had a chance to mark the occasion with violence.

Full story here.