Georgia

With the world's eyes on the conflict between Russia and Georgia during the past few days, I've heard from two friends who have a special connection to that region. Both of them have joined the chorus of voices appealing for a stronger role of the international community to stopping the fighting -- while the two nations have officially ceased hostilities at this time, there are strong allegations that some Russian forces are continuing to foment violence in the disputed regions.

One, my closest friend during childhood, had just returned last week from a week-long musical singing tour of Georgia, which concluded only a couple days before the fighting began. He shared with me a blog that addresses Georgia and issues of civil society and news stories.