Austrian Government commemorates end of the Second World War with ceremony

On May 8, 2025, Austria commemorated the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe with the “Festival of Joy” (Fest der Freude) at Vienna’s Heldenplatz. Organized by the Mauthausen Committee Austria (MKÖ), this annual event honors the victims of National Socialism and celebrates liberation from Nazi rule. This year’s theme, “80 Years of Liberation from National Socialism—Never Again and Peace in Europe,” emphasized the importance of remembering past atrocities to safeguard democracy and peace today. The evening featured speeches from Austrian President Dr. Alexander Van der…

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Frost saints: frost and cold before summer

The ice saints originate from old country lore and are associated with cold and frost. There are five ice saints in May: Mammertus (on May 11), Pankratius (on May 12), Servatius (on May 13), Boniface (on May 14), and Sophia (on May 15). Contrary to their name, the ice saints are not so icy: as an evaluation of the values from the past decades by Geosphere Austria shows, there are typically no cold spells in the days from 12 to 15 May. Are frosty nights typical for the Ice Saints…

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Reasons and Effects of Snoring and How to Minimize It

Snoring is a common sleep-related issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when airflow through the mouth and nose is partially obstructed during sleep, causing tissues to vibrate and produce the characteristic noise. Understanding the causes, effects, and potential solutions can help manage or eliminate snoring effectively. Reasons for Snoring Obstructed Nasal Airways: Allergies, sinus infections, or nasal deformities like a deviated septum can restrict airflow and lead to snoring. Poor Muscle Tone in Throat and Tongue: Aging, alcohol consumption, and certain medications can relax muscles excessively, causing…

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Robert Francis Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV, First American Pontiff

VATICAN CITY — In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected as the 267th pope on May 8, 2025, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American-born Augustinian friar to ascend to the papacy. Prevost, 69, addressed the faithful from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica with the words, “Peace be with all of you,” emphasizing themes of unity and continuity with his predecessor, Pope Francis. He honored Francis’s legacy and declared, “Evil will not prevail.” Born…

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