Quadruple Witching

Quadruple witching,” which marks the simultaneous expiration of a number of different options contracts. Stocks usually push higher during such periods, which can also bring jumpy trading. The gains followed those in markets overseas and a round of buying on Thursday. Better-than-expected economic data is suggesting that the United States economy might be in better shape than some investors had feared.

Traders drew some optimism from European Union leaders who said at a financial summit in Brussels that economic stimulus measures are cushioning the worst effects of the downturn. They said the steps would allow a sustainable economic recovery and that no new stimulus is needed right now.Health care, technology and retail stocks led the market, while consumer staples and utilities lagged.

In midmorning trading, the Dow Jones industrial average was 50 points higher, while the broader Standard & Poor’s 500-stock index rose 0.84 percent. The technology heavy Nasdaq increased 1.55 percent. Earlier, markets in Europe and Asia rose on newfound optimism by investors that the American economy may recover from recession this year.

Juneteenth 2009

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, is the name given to emancipation day by African-Americans in Texas. On that day in 1865 Union Major General Gordon Granger read General Order #3 to the people of Galveston. General Order #3 stated “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.

Large celebrations on June 19 began in 1866 and continued regularly into the early 20th century. The African-Americans treated this day like the Fourth of July and the celebrations contained similar events. In the early days, the celebration included a prayer service, speakers with inspirational messages, reading of the emancipation proclamation, stories from former slaves, food, red soda water, games, rodeos and dances.

The celebration of June 19 as emancipation day spread from Texas to the neighboring states of Louisiana, Arkansas and Oklahoma. It has also appeared in Alabama, Florida, and California as African-American Texans migrated.In many parts of Texas, ex-slaves purchased land, or “emancipation grounds,” for the Juneteenth gathering. Examples include: Emancipation Park in Houston, purchased in 1872; what is now Booker T. Washington Park in Mexia; and Emancipation park in East Austin.

Juneteenth

Today is "Juneteenth", the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future.

Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long over due. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society.

The year 2015 will mark the 150th anniversary of Juneteenth. Preparations are under way for planning for this event. Organizers encourage people to sign up on the website to help in the planning for this anniversary.