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        New Message Board Archives >> Oct-Dec 2003 >> News from Iraq
        
(Message started by: thomas on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 12:15pm)

Title: News from Iraq
Post by thomas on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 12:15pm

The next time you hear a network news story, or read a newspaper, keep
these facts in mind and ask, why isn't this being
reported? Below is the
list that NEVER makes the Media Moguls' "news"
headlines. They just keep printing
the explosions, shootings, deaths and failures. Have
faith!

"Since May 1..."

Since May 1..The first battalion of the new Iraqi Army
has graduated and is on active duty*

Since May 1...over 60,000 Iraqis now provide security
to their fellow citizens.

Since May 1...nearly all of Iraq's 400 courts are functioning.

Since May 1...the Iraqi judiciary is fully independent.

Since May 1 . . . on Monday, October 6 power generation hit 4,518 megawatts exceeding the pre- war average.

Since May 1...all 22 universities and 43 technical institutes and colleges are open, as are nearly all primary and secondary schools.

Since May 1... as of October 1, Coalition forces had
rehabbed over 1,500 schools - 500 more than their
target.

Since May 1... teachers earn from 12 to 25 times their
former salaries.

Since May 1...all 240 hospitals and more than 1200
clinics are open.

Since May 1...doctors' salaries are at least eight
times what they were under Saddam.

Since May 1...pharmaceutical distribution has gone
from essentially nothing to 700 tons in May to a
current total of 12,000 tons.

Since May 1...the Coalition has helped administer over
22 million vaccinations doses to Iraq's children.

Since May 1...a Coalition program has cleared over
14,000 kilometers of Iraq's 27,000 kilometers of
weed-choked canals. They now irrigate tens of
thousands of farms. This project has created jobs for
more than 100,000 Iraqi men and women.

Since May 1...we have restored over three-quarters of
pre-war telephone services and over two-thirds of the
potable water production.

Since May 1... there are 4,900 full-service
connections. We expect 50,000 by January first.

Since May 1...the wheels of commerce are turning. From
bicycles to satellite dishes to cars and trucks,
businesses are coming to life in all major cities and
towns.

Since May 1...95 percent of all pre-war bank customers
have service and first-time customers are opening
accounts daily.

Since May 1... Iraqi banks are making loans to finance
businesses.
Since May 1...the central bank is fully independent.

Since May 1... Iraq has some of the world's most
growth-oriented investment and banking laws.

Since May 1... Iraq (has) a single, unified currency
for the first time in 15 years.

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by kim on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 12:28pm

Thanks. That was very refreshing :)

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by jminmilwaukee on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 12:48pm

Since May first - The soup kitchen lines in Milwaukee have grown signifacantly but at least we have cheap oil.

;;D

I know, never talk religion or politics unless you want enemies.

Peace,
Jmin

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by thomas on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 12:49pm

I'm not your enemy - sorry you feel that way.

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by jminmilwaukee on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 12:52pm

No, that was meant as a lighthearted general remark. Not meant as you are my enemy.

Hard to not offend when in email. No offence to you and I do support the troops. Just not the war and the way we went about it while Americans are hungry, in need of decent schools and jobs.

Peace brother,
Jmin

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by KenB on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 1:04pm

on 12/03/03 at 12:15:20, thomas wrote:

If they're not printing or publishing these facts, where exactly did you find them? [smiley=huh.gif]

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by floridian on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 1:19pm

I'll buy most of what you said, which are statements of fact. But not

Quote:

the left leaning media, and socialist
democrats, have yet to say anything positive about the
troops, or their accomplishments

The media didn't bother to challenge or criticize the official government line until it was apparent that things weren't going smoothly. Pick up any newspaper, turn on any news program, and you will see stories and profiles about the men and women serving their country.

And as for the "socialist" democrats not having anything good to say about troops ---- what newspapers have you been NOT reading? I haven't seen many interviews with Democrats where they did not say they support the troops, although many disagree with administration policy.

Some things have gotten better in Iraq since Saddam was ousted. No doubt about it. But the Democrats are in a minority in congress, and have basically sat on the sidelines. The US media hasn't always sung the song the president wants, but who said they are supposed to be cheerleaders for the Whitehouse anyway?

Blaming the media or the Democrats won't help at all, unless some one is trying to deflect attention from something else. That attempt to tar the media and the Democratic party as unpatriotric is dishonest.

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by kim on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 1:24pm

Thomas,

The news and media have a long history of reporting news in their own special way :)

This discussion is very predictable :D

PFDAN ;)

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by thomas on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 1:30pm

Ok how about now. I've modified the post - that's a lesson in compromise - what our government is supposed to do (but don't). :)

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by floridian on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 1:31pm

I'm cool with it now 8)

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by fubar on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 1:44pm

This is not rocket science. Media does not report feel-good news, it's not interesting to the masses.

When I lived in the UK, I was constantly meeting Brits who were shocked that they didn't see a single gun-toting criminal in the US when they went there on holiday. The reason for their shock was simple... the media reports all the robberies, sniper attacks, school shootings, etc... ad nauseum. They do it because, surprise, THAT"S NEWS! Have you ever seen a news headline that reads "Man has boring day" or "Woman lives for 30 crime-free years in Smallville, USA". No. Of course not.

Those that think that there is some conspiracy to report just the bad stuff are just wrong. That's just what happens to be newsworthy. It does shape and mold people's view of a place if all they hear about is the violence and killing, but too f'ing bad. That's life, get over it.

Thomas, I appreciate you post. People DO need to realize it's not as bad as it sounds. The voice of reason needs to be louder than it is, we all know that. I'm not sure where you got your numbers, or if they are factual, but thanks for posting anyway.

-fubar

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by jminmilwaukee on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 1:51pm

For an enlightening view on American journalism, rent the movie Bowling For Columbine by Michael Moore.

Good flick with some good eye opening views.

Jmin

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by thomas on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 1:54pm

Sorry can't do it, I'm boycotting Mr. Moore.

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by jminmilwaukee on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 2:13pm

NP

It basically goes into how American Journalism scares the hell out of the public with things like "What you don't know can KILL YOU!!!!! Details at 10". It also points out how in a large part of Canada how they are not living in fear and actually leave their doors unlocked and such.

My point is what is newsworthy in America must be scary, horrible or evil thus breeding an atmosphere of hate and paranoia.

The movie also goes on to point out how Canada has MANY more guns than America per capita yet has very little firearm related crime. This has nothing to do with the thread I know but I thought the news part was worthy.

Now, to adress your boycott (please do not take this as a flame as it is only an observation). I wonder how someone who selectivly chooses their sources of information can judge a media for selectivly reporting?

I personally try to listen to the farthest right to the farthest left and everthing in between to gather my information. I believe this helps form an open minded opinion on world issues. Unfortunatly most media conglomerants are now owned by the very corporations that contribute heavily to politics in general, therfor most news is biased in one form or another.

Ok, off of my soap box.

To readdress the originall post "I do support the troops" and believe they are doing the best job they possibly can over their.

Peace,
jmin

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by thomas on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 2:25pm

Jiminmilwaukee, I agree with a lot of what you're saying. I listen to NPR, All things considered, BBC, the Sunday shows, Fox news, MSNBC, Rush Limbaugh, CNN. But if I don't want to put money in someone's pocket, I will not buy their product.

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by jminmilwaukee on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 2:37pm

Cool. Thanks for not taking that the wrong way. I was sure a flame fest was forthcomming. ;;D

jmin

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by floridian on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 3:02pm

Quote:

ave you ever seen a news headline that reads "Man has boring day"

I think the onion runs alot of stories along those lines. www.theonion.com The onion is "America's Finest News Source"

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by thomas on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 3:03pm

No way, brother - no flameage coming from me. No matter if we disagree or not, I will not loose sight of why we are here in the first place. PFNAD to you sir.

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by jonny on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 3:23pm

just heard on the radio that the military is asking law enforcement to donate any extra body amor they have cause our troops dont have enough....WTF up with that?

.................................jonny

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by fubar on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 3:24pm

on 12/03/03 at 15:02:50, floridian wrote:

I think the onion runs alot of stories along those lines. www.theonion.com The onion is "America's Finest News Source"

LOL, where do you think I got those headlines? The Onion is truly one of the funniest news sources on the planet. I actually had a print subscription to their newspaper (for real) for 2 years.

-Shawn

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by brain_cramps on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 3:30pm

on 12/03/03 at 14:13:22, jminmilwaukee wrote:

It also points out how in a large part of Canada how they are not living in fear and actually leave their doors unlocked and such...

The movie also goes on to point out how Canada has MANY more guns than America per capita yet has very little firearm related crime.

I tried to stay out of the various threads relating with your constitutional right to own guns. I really tried!

While I'm aware I can't speak for all Canadians, I have to say DON'T start bringing MY Canada into any of your inane discussions regarding guns and your right to bear arms.

And DON'T start quoting statistics from a MOVIE of all things. sheeeeesh!

WTF is your preoccupation with guns anyways? And then you wonder why you can't leave your doors open and why you have a high crime-rate!!! Gimme a break!!!

There was SO MANY LAUGHABLE QUOTES in a thread awhile back dealing with guns.

WTF does a 'hunter' need an assault rifle for? For that matter, what does ANYONE need one for?

What does anyone need 14 guns for? IMHO, that is bending your constitutional rights just because you are able to!

Sheeeeesh!!!

on 12/03/03 at 14:13:22, jminmilwaukee wrote:

It also points out how in a large part of Canada how they are not living in fear and actually leave their doors unlocked and such.

I think the main reason is that we DON'T have this preoccupation with guns!

on 12/03/03 at 14:13:22, jminmilwaukee wrote:

The movie also goes on to point out how Canada has MANY more guns than America per capita...

I have to call BULL-SHIT on this one!

on 12/03/03 at 14:13:22, jminmilwaukee wrote:

...yet has very little firearm related crime.

Back to the comment about NOT being pre-occupied with owning guns.

http://www.guncontrol.ca/Content/Cda-US.htm
and don't tell me these numbers have been "fixed" because they come from a Canadian source!

Also, I am NOT in favor of the new gun-control law up here. It effects too many people that live in rural regions who use guns responsiblyon a day-to-day basis. (Not that you don't have a lot of people living in rural areas down there, but I'd be willing to guess that it would be an interesting per-capita comparison.)

As for the original topic... Up here we generally get the news from 2 different perspectives: American network TV AND the international/global perspective. Amazing how different they can be!

Again, PLEASE leave Canada out of your inane discussions about how you have the right to own 14 guns, etc... In general, WE AREN'T INTERESTED!

If there are any Canadians that don't agree with any or all of what I said, I apologize for speaking on your behalf. I just don't like seeing BULL-SHIT concerning Canada.

[/rant],
grant

on 12/03/03 at 14:13:22, jminmilwaukee wrote:

I wonder how someone who selectivly chooses their sources of information can judge a media for selectivly reporting?

LMAO @ this one! Great point jmin!

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by thomas on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 3:31pm

Where do you think the onion is printed boys - right here baby!!! Funniest rag in the world.

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by jminmilwaukee on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 9:24pm

Yeah, the Onion rocks. It started in Madison Wisconsin (used to live there) and I've been getting the print version every week since the early 90's. Although it moved to New York a few years back we still get free copies in the Milwaukee and Madison areas.

Now to quickly address Cramps........Trample Off Eah (not sure how one spells the Canadian response of Aaa).

Dude, I was mearly using Canada as an example of a country that is not afraid of everything. Sorry to pee in your Molson but I know more Americans that do not own guns than do.

I believe you have been watching too many biased news reports regarding Americans and their love of guns.

I personally believe Canadians have less crime because your beer is stronger and the winters are colder (with the exeption of the coasts). :)

Have you seen the movie Canadian Bacon? Don't make us come up there. :)

jmin

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by brain_cramps on Dec 3^rd, 2003, 11:44pm

on 12/03/03 at 21:24:29, jminmilwaukee wrote:

I believe you have been watching too many biased news reports regarding Americans and their love of guns.

Nope. Just reading a thread or two here!

and its "Take off, eh" LOL

grant

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by Charlie on Dec 4^th, 2003, 1:24am

Iffy beyond belief. Here's worst:

Quote:

Since May 1...the Coalition has helped administer over
22 million vaccinations doses to Iraq's children.

The total population of Iraq is considered about 22,200,000. What are you reading? Not much reason to overvalue this little list. While some things are at least going the right way, this is nuts. Too bad too.

You are right about the news, not that they are anywhere as left-leaning as Fox is to the extreme right.
They have to sell stuff. So does Fox and good stuff news doesn’t sell Viagra. Too bad we don't have more imbedded reporters in Iraq for some of this.

Quote:

Since May 1... teachers earn from 12 to 25 times their former salaries

Same for everything like that in Iraq. Impossible not to. Silly.

Nothing much to be learned from that list. I wish it were mostly true though.

Actually, a bit of what Thomas says is true. A few things are going the right way slowly but it’s pretty sad that we open schools in Iraq while closing them here.

I read or saw somewhere that the BBC or something has been following some of the not so well covered stuff. It would be great to see this.

At least Saddam isn’t in his palaces. Hope he’s part of the foundation.

Oh and Jonny: Here's deal: The body armor thing is criminal. I hope we have reneged on the insane idea that we won't by armor if it’s made in Britain. They have been considering this lunacy. It's also better than ours is and some of our troops go out of their way trying to get it. Only in America. This is from the Buffalo News some time ago, if I remember.

Charlie

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by KenB on Dec 4^th, 2003, 4:12am

[smiley=huh.gif]Me still be unsure about where those "facts" have come from. [smiley=huh.gif] Can anyone help me? Thomas? [smiley=huh.gif]

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by BobG on Dec 4^th, 2003, 6:35am

I like this newspaper.

http://www.nhgazette.com/cgi-bin/NHGstore.cgi

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by thomas on Dec 4^th, 2003, 8:51am

on 12/04/03 at 04:12:00, KenB wrote:

[smiley=huh.gif]Me still be unsure about where those "facts" have come from. [smiley=huh.gif] Can anyone help me? Thomas? [smiley=huh.gif]

From my uncle who is very active in supporting Veterans and their rights.

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by KenB on Dec 4^th, 2003, 10:27am

Hmm....don't mean to sound cynical or skeptical but.....it seems to me that you are implying that no form of media has published these facts that have somehow been uncovered by your Uncle. Where did he get all these stats from? [smiley=huh.gif]

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by thomas on Dec 4^th, 2003, 11:59am

I'll ask him, he goes to The Pentagon quite frequently - mabe he got it there.

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by thomas on Dec 4^th, 2003, 1:43pm

Here's your answer KenB. From Col. Lucy Titus. Her husband is a retired Major
General and she is in the chain of command of the Association of the US Army
and land warefare. Presently being assigned to Govenor of California's
staff. We're doing fine. I guess they told you about the folks finding your
pictures. Have a great holiday season. B

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by Charlie on Dec 4^th, 2003, 3:05pm

I have way too much time. :-/

This list can be found floating around blogs from the right. Jug Varner, John Huang (this guys sounds familiar)
and some pretty creepy places as well.

I have no idea where it began but it's gotten around. The Varner guy seems to be a decent sort anyway.

My defense is that I was looking up hoaxes anyway and got sidetracked. ::)

MOC 8)

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by KenB on Dec 5^th, 2003, 5:28am

on 12/04/03 at 13:43:53, thomas wrote:

I guess they told you about the folks finding your
pictures.

Huh? [smiley=huh.gif]

Title: Re: News from Iraq
Post by thomas on Dec 5^th, 2003, 8:17am

That has nothing to do about your question, someone found some pictures we had taken while visiting my uncle, recognized him and gave him the pictures. I cut and pasted his reply and forgot to delete that part.