March 2011

Possible “Human Rights Catastrophe” in Abidjan – How You Can Help #civ2010 #IvoryCoast

by phil March 31, 2011 Cote D'Ivoire
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**UPDATE 1030AM 4/5** UN SAYS GBAGBO IS NEGOTIATING SURRENDER (USA Today) **UPDATE 3PM 4/4** – Water is cut to most of Abidjan. Power intermittent. The UN has reported that 11 of their peacekeepers were attacked yesterday. In response, the UN has mobilized helicopters and they are reportedly attacking a Gbagbo military camp as well as [...]

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Blog For Cote d’Ivoire #IvoryCoast #civ2010 #blog4civ

by phil March 25, 2011 Cote D'Ivoire
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At the doctor’s office yesterday, I walked into an animated discussion in the waiting room. “Can you believe how crazy it is everywhere?” “I know! The Middle East and this earthquake in Japan. It’s hard to keep up.” I listened for a while and then asked: “Have you guys heard any news about Cote d’Ivoire?” [...]

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Plans, Goals and Dreams for Upcoming West Africa Trip

by phil March 23, 2011 W. Africa
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I have mixed feelings about the term “bucket list.” Creating a list of specific experiences and things to see can give a person tunnel vision. For example, maybe I’m in Mali with limited time and Timbuktu is on my bucket list, but when I show up in Bamako there is this incredible dance festival going [...]

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Music in West Africa: Senegal Part I

by phil March 16, 2011 Music
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Previously, I covered Malian music: Part I, Part II, Part III, and Part IV. In April, I will visit Senegal for the first time. While it will be my first trip there, I have long been familiar, and occasionally obsessed with, Senegalese music. The dominant genre in Senegal is Mbalax, a blend of traditional polyrhythms [...]

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I Haven’t had a “Job” in 8 Months and That’s OK

by phil March 9, 2011 Tips
my first year teaching

The last day I worked a conventional job was sometime in late June 2010. It is now March 2011. I don’t have a lot of money. I traveled for six months last year and I recently bought a one way plane ticket back to West Africa. How is this possible? 1. I saved money for [...]

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Quick Update on Cote d’Ivoire

by phil March 6, 2011 Cote D'Ivoire

Thank you to everyone that has spread the word about Cote D’Ivoire. CNN ran the story and video from the women’s march. It’s a start. A few updates: – Power has been restored to Northern Cote D’Ivoire. Water is still cut in most areas. – Police have been looting the homes of Alassane Ouattara’s cabinet [...]

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