The dance is older than Islamic or even Christian culture. Many believe its roots are in the temple dancing and fertility rites of rites of ancient matriarchal religions.

something for Lisa:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zytpHl7Q5cA&feature=related

When Barack Obama’s victory in the Democratic Iowa caucasus had become clear, former U.S. President Bill Clinton shook his head, lamenting the Illinois senator’s “paper-thin political record.”

http://www.atlantic-times.com/archive.php?issue_number=41

Muslim Pomaks are tending a hardy Muslim culture in largely Christian Bulgaria, where the communist regime did not tolerate any religious rituals, pressing Muslims to abandon wearing their traditional outfits. The traditional winter marriage ceremony is Ribnovo's answer to the persecutions of the past.

http://www.turkishdailynews.com.tr/article.php?enewsid=95835

Islam prohibits alcoholic beverages and frowns on smoking.

Given that Turks' national drink, raki, is usually served with a second glass for water, Erdogan argued it will be particularly tricky for Turks to smoke outside as the law dictates: "You cannot go out with two glasses in one hand and a cigarette in another. This will interrupt conversations and spoil your night," he said
http://www.iht.com/articles/reuters/2008/02/13/europe/OUKWD-UK-TURKEY-CIGARETTES.php

http://www.canada.com/windsorstar/news/story.html?id=75c65685-4838-49c4-ac62-f4cc48393f77

Gossip:
more about her here:
http://d1o202.telia.com/~u222600821/Geir%20Site/Bulent1.html

changed mind

Ha, ha, ha, Elisabeth! Good one!