Free Republic

Novgorod or Veliky Novgorod, is one of the major historical cities of Russia, and it started out as a trading station for the Varangians who traveled from the Baltic region to Constantinople by (possibly) late 10th century AD. But as it turns out, this historically significant settlement of northern Russia is also home to around thousand personal ‘tomes’ that are inscribed on bark of birch trees and are almost preserved in perfect condition. In fact, historians hypothesize that there are 20,000 similar specimens still waiting to be salvaged from the conducive anaerobic clay soil layers of the city environs. And...

Enemy is by no means able to launch military attack against Iran, Air Force Commander Brigadier General pilot Ahmad Miqani said on Thursday. Addressing a ceremony to celebrate graduation of a number of officers in an air base, the commander stressed Iran's military strength in the region. "Relying on efforts made by its young experts, the Air Force of the Armed Forces has made remarkable achievements in various fields and this has resulted in promoting Iran's authority inside and outside the region," said the commander. As for the threats made against Iran by certain countries, the commander said, "Such threats...

...just thought I'd do my little part to rattle o'l shoemakers (Sad-um's) cage a bit like the rest of the media psy-ops campaign. Bet half a dozen DU'er lurkers just wet their Depends on the headline... sigh.