Greetings from Afghanistan.
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This has been our best year ever to set up about twenty new (mostly) girls schools in Afghanistan. With the help of local shura elders, we’ve been able to start efforts in volatile areas like Urozgan, Kunar, Patika, and Wardak province. Things are tense with upcoming elections, and it will get worse next week, which is unfortunate, as it is the good people, women and children who always suffer the most. Its also been an honor and exciting to bring tribal shura elders from around the country to meet and talk with NATO / U.S. military leaders under Gen. McChrystal – who are keen to build relationships and listen to the people – which is exciting to see unfold.

CNN has a special two hour feature called “Generation Islam” with Christane Amanpour that airs 8/14 Thursday at 9PM EST / 8PM CST / 7PM MST etc.
The program also airs on CNN Int. 8/14 Thurs 22:00 PM Hong Kong time
About 20 minutes is dedicated to Central Asia Institute’s work in Afghanistan.
http://edition.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2009/generation.islam
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Please let your family, friends and collegues know.
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With the encouragement of my daughter Amira, and Admiral Mike Mullen, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff, I’ve started twittering:  http://twitter.com/gregmortenson – but still not texting!
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Thanks again for all your support!
Regards,
Greg Mortenson