The Iraqi interpreter kidnapped in Basra has been released, yet his American counterpart is still being held. On Sunday, an Iraqi interpreter and an American CBS news journalist were kidnapped in the city of Basra. The release of both individuals was successfully negotiated via intermediary, yet only the interpreter freed. The men were abducted from the Sultan Palace Hotel by men dressed as security personnel. The American military and Iraqi officials are working together to facilitate the release of the second person. Their names of the kidnapped individuals have not been released by CBS.
This story is important because it hits close to home. Amid the discussion of Election '08, sometimes it is forgotten that a war is still occurring. The kidnapping of these people shows the element of human interest. Being that one of them is an American media figure, it hits very close to home as fellow Americans. There is also the element of conflict. These men were captured amidst a war in the Middle East. Had they not been there to report on the war, perhaps they would not have been viewed as targets. (The New York Times 2/14/08 p. A16)
My favorite story of the week is the news that the Writers strike has come to a resolution and is finally over. The Writers agreed on a three year contract, and can now get back to producing shows that have been on hiatus for months. The strike cost Hollywood $2 Billion. This news appeals to the human interest element because many actors were out of work while the contracts were being worked out. (The New York Times, 2/10/08, p. A20)
More women shun fragrances as society frowns on flowering up public space. (The New York Times, 2/14/08, p. G1)... Parent Shock: Children are not decor. (The New York Times, 2/14/08, p. F1)... A day to 'misremember' Politicians turn hearing into a partisan squabble. (The New York Times, 2/14/08, p. D1)... Mom and pop get a partner: Microsoft. (The New York Times, 2/14/08, p. C1)... Little room for Yahoo to maneuver. (The New York Times, 2/14/08, p. C1)
