21.   Bethlehem Mayor Elias Freij suggested that Israeli officials were not welcome to attend the celebrations.

22.   Because of the standoff, Israel prevented Arafat from attending Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem.

23.   Bethlehem Mayor Elias Freij suggested that Israeli officials were not necessarily welcome to attend the celebrations.

24.   Besides Annan, the celebrations will be attended by former U.S. President Bill Clinton, Portuguese President Jorge Sampaio, among other dignitaries.

25.   Bush is not expected to attend the celebration.

26.   But the Frenchman is reported to be so angry at his treatment by United that he may not attend the celebrations at Old Trafford.

27.   Clinton, who arrived in Dili on Sunday for a two-day visit, was one of the many foreign dignitaries who attended independence celebrations.

28.   City officials, however, insist fewer people than usual attended the celebrations this year because of the predictions of heavy weather.

29.   Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Prince Masako are scheduled to attend the celebration to be held at a Tokyo hotel Wednesday.

30.   Colvin, who now lives in New York City, refused interviews and will not attend the celebration in Montgomery.