Regarding our misconceptions and preconceptions of the Middle East, I was there also last summer (Syria, Dubai, Lebanon, and Turkey) and found the same thing. While my American co-workers, neighbors and friends were afraid for me to travel there, I was never afraid, or even apprehensive, for myself. In fact, I felt quite at home. I'm glad I went, and found out for myself, how nice people can be all over the world. Knowledge (not hearsay) is power.

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Dave Iltis <dave@cyclingutah.com> 1/27/2007 1:56 PM >>> Mummies & Mosques Authors and photographers Bruce B. Junek and Tass Thacker will be showing their newest slide program, Mummies & Mosques, from their recent three-month bicycle trip through Egypt, Jordan, Greece and Turkey, on Thursday, Feb 1, 6:30 pm at the Patagonia Outlet in Salt Lake. The cost is $5. In addition to exploring pyramids, temples and tombs, Junek and Thacker wanted to learn more about Muslim culture. They were welcomed everywhere they went and found people often had as many misconceptions about Americans as Americans have about them. Junek and Thacker make their living giving school assembly programs about their travels. Junek has also written three books, including The Road of Dreams, the story of a 26-month bicycle trip around the world. Their website is imagesoftheworld.com Thanks! Bruce

Bruce B. Junek / Tass ThackerImages of the World612 Saint James StreetRapid City, SD 57701605-348-3432www.imagesoftheworld.comiow@hills.net