Helsinki concert praised for skill but criticized for length; Waldheim condemns Israel's Entebbe raid; US celebrates bicentennial

Helsinki's Kaivopuisto hosted its first summer pop concert, drawing a large crowd to its familiar grassy stage. While the first Finnish act was not heard, the Swedish group fronted by guitarist Janne Schaffer captivated the audience. Schaffer and his band demonstrated exceptional technical skill, impressing with their musicianship even if they offered no groundbreaking new material. Their performance was marked by a mastery that earned "unreserved admiration."

Another group, Lone Star, was noted for its professionalism, though lacking a standout star. Their music and stage presence heavily borrowed from bands like Status Quo, Wishbone Ash, and Free, with a heavy rock foundation. Despite the competent performances, the concert was deemed excessively long, with the three-act lineup stretching to nearly five hours, a duration considered too lengthy.

In separate international news, UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim strongly condemned Israel's recent raid on Entebbe airport in Uganda. The raid, which freed over 100 hostages from hijackers, was labeled an "attack on Uganda's sovereignty and territorial integrity" by the Organization of African Unity (OAU). Waldheim described the action as a "grave violation" of a UN member state's sovereignty, prompting the Security Council to schedule a meeting to discuss the situation.

Meanwhile, the United States celebrated its 200th anniversary with a massive display of fireworks over Washington D.C. The Washington Monument served as a backdrop for laser beams carrying the nation's bicentennial message into space. The capital experienced unprecedented traffic congestion due to the estimated one million spectators. Across the country, numerous parades and events highlighted American uniqueness in a spirit of jubilant, informal celebration.