Posts - Surprise ME

Vodka, Snowden and Boycotts

Sat, 03 Aug 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Say what you will about the various gay bars in North America that are boycotting Stolichnaya vodka and (horror of horrors), pouring it into the gutter. But the fact is, as reported elsewhere, they didn't do their research. These days, Stolichnaya vodka is about as Russian as Edward Snowden...

Scams, Frogs, and Cars

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 05:00:00 GMT

This week we have a little bit of everything: new cars, freshly-paved streets, and, of course, plenty of coronavirus.

Cosmonautics Day and Fruit in Disguise

Thu, 13 Apr 2017 18:00:00 GMT

Investigations: the state of Russian cosmonautics, what happens to prohibited fruit, and when mourners aren't really mourning. Plus, sneaking pickles into space.

The Soviet Diet Cook Book

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 05:00:00 GMT

Food-writer Anna Kharzeeva brings best Soviet recipes, spiced with hints and memories from her Jewish Grandmother.

5 Reasons Silver is Precious

Thu, 17 Dec 2015 10:00:00 GMT

As a metal, Silver means second place; as a period of poetic production in Russia, the Silver Age is unparalleled. The years 1890-1925 (give or take) stand out for the explosion of poetic voices, forms, and innovations. With help from the recently published Russian Silver Age Poetry, we explore what sets that period apart.

It's Nutcracker Season!

Thu, 07 Nov 2013 16:00:00 GMT

It's that time of year again: dancing toys, mice, and candy, waltzing flowers, presents coming to life... But was this time of year always so closely tied to the Nutcracker?