Moscow Update

The only thing that has happened lately that could be remotely considered 'exciting' was the removal of two of Olga's wisdom teeth. One could seriously challenge the 'wisdom' in waiting until arriving in Moscow to have these removed, but we won't go there right now. The American Dental clinic that she went to actually looked like a dentist office...much more so than the one that I saw her in over here 7 or so years ago anyway.

The dentist, well he was....let's just say 'interesting'. I prefer my dentist to be a bit more clean cut than this guy, who resembled a heavy-set Kenny G (no really, he had a pony tail and ear rings!). We went back this week to have the stitches removed and he walked through the waiting area in a sleeveless T-shirt...NICE. Never mind the fact that he was 45 minutes late. Oh well, at least she is feeling better.

Since I have mentioned the dentist showing up 45 minutes late, let's chat a bit about the efficiency in Russian labor...or lack thereof. We have been in our hotel now for just under 30 days and we have been watching the progress of the construction workers across the street. During this time they have been 'working' on the same 20X20 square of the walkway in front of the building. We're not sure if they have finally finished it, but we did notice that one of the individuals appeared to be sweeping the side of the curb the other day, so we assume this means they are close to being done.

I also read an interesting article in the Moscow Times the other day (here's the link http://www.themoscowtimes.ru/article/1010/42/368400.htm ). This may be difficult for many to comprehend (at least those of you that have never lived in Chicago), but bribery is a serious issue here in Russia and it is very out in the open. Unfortunately, this will also keep the country from emerging fully into the international business community. It's extremely difficult to do business with those that make the rules as they go (even if there are rules currently in place).

For those of you that are interested in keeping up with the goings-on over here, the link to the English ('American' for you Jim) of The Moscow Times follows: http://www.themoscowtimes.ru/index.htm