Greetings from New York,

I suppose that I am spoiled by travel in Europe where all airports have publicly available computers that provide access to the net for a modest fee. many also provide free wifi so folks can keep in touch with friends and colleagues. Not so in the Big Apple. It took me quite a while to even get access to a server that charged me $5.00 for an hour of use! Most folks in the US have no idea how much they are being ripped off by the internet "providers". Free enterprise is a good excuse for charging the max for providing the mim. I realize that this is a none issue for users of the newer and more expensive cel-phones that do "everything" but that isn't free either and similar service in Europe costs a fraction of what the American public is paying. Travel broadens one's horizons while narrowing one's funds! I have been trying to get word to the group about where we will meet in Helsinki. I am hoping that some of the students have cel-phone on them and that they will check e-mail with them and can then spread the word about meeting up at the main train station in Helsinki at 5 Pm tomorrow. This is certainly one useful way to spend a long layover! In spite of all my complaints, I do appreciate the amazing capabilities that we have for communications now. It is a far cry from a few years ago when I started these adventures into Eastern Europe. I am certain that you will learn more about our ability to keep in touch as various members of the group converge on Finland. When next you hear from me I will be in Finland. Best to all.

Carl