New Power in Kyrgyzstan! Revolution Happens. Larry Tweed and Volunteers SAFE

I just got word about an hour ago (3:30 PM Kyrgyz time) that protestors stormed the White House in the Kyrgyz Capital of Bishkek. My Expat Anthropologist friend was on the scene and text messaged me and called me as events unfolded. He called from the the doorway of the White House itself...so this is pretty reliable. He has also heard that Akaev's motorcade was seen leaving Bishkek. If this is true, then a Revolution has taken place. I have heard that Bishkek already appears calm. Who will be in power? This is the big question for the revolutionaries to answer. Also, is it completely over for Akaev? I sense the answer is a resounding YES. What do the people really think about this revolution?

Side Note: I have heard that Roza Otunbaeva did a great job of uniting the opposition parties to accomplish this...You can bet she'll continue to be a player.

Peace Corps decided not move us yet. A wise choice as Osh is calm and everything is up in the air. We are safe though a little stir crazy. AMAZING time to be here. I know friends and family are worried. Please understand that everything you may be viewing is from the lens of the media. We are OK and look forward to resuming our work as soon as Peace Corps deems it safe. They are doing a good job (though the information in scarce). Peace Corps staff visited all of us in the South to make sure we are ok.

I'm tired. Played poker with volunteers last night until 6:00 AM. I won 200 som, which is about 5 dollars or 10 lunches, depending on who you talk to. Feeling good though. Very good.

Just want to say to friends and family that I love you and am having a great time here in Kyrgyzstan. I will update you when I can. It's OK to be worried, but please don't panic--we're not.

Take care folks,

Love Larry