Mrs Palin's arrival on the national stage is inspiring some startling political somersaults.

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Another, though, may be that the things that make the French laugh involve linguistic somersaults that only work in their own language.

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With their baggy pants, multiple piercings and tattoos, these nonposh skiers practice daredevil stunts on skis and snowboards, such as airborne somersaults and 720-degree spins.

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If nothing else, Mr Giuliani's appointment promises further diverting political somersaults.

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