Is anyone familiar with the old forum "Soviet Empire"...it's been years since I've been there. I love the soviet union, I am very interested in Russia although I am American and I have Italian and German heritage (and i might have a bit russian). I am also trying to learn Russian on my own (I'm teaching myself Russian and it's very hard). By reading all your Russian messages, I find that my studying has paid off but I have a lot to learn yet. oh and by the way, I'm new here...good to be here .