Ataturk

The anniversary of his death was November 10. Big ceremonies on campus. Displays of his portraits at the grammar schools, flowers, flags. It’s hard to underestimate the influence he still has here, the reverence he is still owed. Imagine a portrait of Abraham Lincoln or George Washington in every office. Plus Ataturk was a really charismatic guy, besides being a brilliant politician, general, and leader. He enjoyed drink and women. If Arnie-Baby ever does something great, like form a country, he’d be comparible…
The Embassy person was a diplomat who had to defend our policies in Turkey and beyond. What a rotten job! She did have a great suit on, though. We are going to the Ambassador's house for Thanksgiving. Ooh la la.