Recently the American Ambassador to Russia, William Burns, came to Nalchik for a visit. Rod was invited to hear him speak and answer questions at a closed session at the university. Ambassador Burns was on a mission to promote - among other things - more American ventures in this region. He said that he was voting with his feet to allay American's fears about the security concerns here. Although Rod wasn't able to use his influence to personally and forever alter the course of American / Russian diplomacy, he did receive a very nice email afterwards from his new friend, Bill, offering his help if ever we need it.
Rod's in the back row and the only one with light hair.
(It's debateable if it's white or blonde.)
