American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.

I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 4 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. In part 1 and part 2 we interviewd Susan Hallums, Roy Hallums' ex-wife.

In part 3 we interview Roy's daughter, Carrie Hallums Cooper, asking her the same questions we asked her mother. This segment continues that conversation.

Carrrie runs the website Free Roy. Carrie is 29 and makes her home in California where she also works. Carrie has an MFT (Masters of Family Therapy) and is currently pursuing a Ph. D. in Clinical Psychology. Carrie also is engaged in fundraising to help defray costs associated with freeing her father.

You can donate to the Free Roy Foundation by clicking on the Pay Pal button below.

Or you can send a check or money order to

Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684

More information is on the Free Roy website. Roy and other heroes will be celebrated at the Inland Empire Memorial Day Heroes Festival in Riverside, CA on May 14th.

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[You can read part 1 of this interview here]

Rusty Shackleford: Roberto Tarongoy was taken hostage on the same day as Roy, and the Filipino government as recently as two weeks ago claimed that they knew Tarongoy was alive. However, the Philipines has a policy of negotiating with hostage-takers and even paying ransom for hostages release. What are your thoughts on that policy?

Carrie Hallums Cooper: First IÂ’d like to say that I have a great respect for Ivy (RobertÂ’s wife) and the Tarongoy family. If I were in IvyÂ’s shoes I would do whatever I could to free my husband. Cognitively though, I understand that if we (the U.S.) pay ransom for hostages this will only increase more hostage-taking, which is why the United States adheres to this policy. So, from that frame of mind, the Philippines policy of negotiating with hostage-takers may be encouraging more kidnappings, which for the Philippines as a whole is not beneficial.

However, unless you have been a family member of a hostage, you will never understand the lengths that you would go to in order to free your loved one. If I had to choose between policy and my fatherÂ’s life, I would not hesitate to choose my father, and therefore pay a ransom (if I had the money). So, I do not fault the Philippines for listening to their hearts in hostage situations, even though it may encourage more hostage-taking.

I believe that the policy of not negotiating with terrorists was created for the majority (those familyÂ’s whose loved ones are not hostages), and most of the time it works out fine (as long as you stay in the majority). Right now IÂ’m in the minority (a family member of a hostage), so I donÂ’t feel like the policy works for me. I donÂ’t want to put other people in danger by endorsing paying terrorists, which I do think is what happens when you pay ransoms (because it encourages more hostage taking); but at the same time, there has got to be a better policy than to just not deal with the terrorists.

To be honest with you IÂ’m kind of torn about this issue right now. IÂ’m not a policy maker, but I feel like someone could come up with a better solution than what we have in place right now (though I donÂ’t know what it is), so that itÂ’s a win-win situation for everyone. IÂ’m sure the govt. would say that it is win-win now, but I donÂ’t feel like sitting back and letting my Dad rot over in Iraq is win-win for either me or my Dad. more...

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UPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
------------------------------------

American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.

I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 3 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. In part 1 and part 2 we interviewd Susan Hallums, Roy Hallums' ex-wife.

In this segment we interview Roy's daugther, Carrie Hallums Cooper, asking her the same questions we asked her mother. Carrie runs the website Free Roy. Carrie is 29 and makes her home in California where she also works. Carrie has an MFT (Masters of Family Therapy) and is currently pursuing a Ph. D. in Clinical Psychology. Carrie also is engaged in fundraising to help defray costs associated with freeing her father.

You can donate to the Free Roy Foundation by clicking on the Pay Pal button below.

Or you can send a check or money order to

Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684

More information is on the Free Roy website. Roy and other heroes will be celebrated at the Inland Empire Memorial Day Heroes Festival in Riverside, CA on May 14th.

-----------------------
Rusty Shackleford: Can you tell our readers a little something about the kind of man Roy is?

Carrie Hallums Cooper: My Dad is the most giving person I have ever met. He did whatever he could to help his family and friends. Some other words that describe him are: thoughtful, kind, intelligent, quiet, athletic, funny, and fun. No one, besides my Mom, has ever treated me as well as my Dad has. My Dad, though far away, was always there for me. He called me all the time and sent me e-mails every day or so.

My Dad has many interests, both socially and intellectually. My Dad likes playing chess with me, going to art museums, walking on the beach or just being in nature (he likes being outdoors), riding his bike, going out to eat, reading, and he likes to listen to classic rock music (which my Mom always hated). He kept up to date on what was cool and hip, at least as much as he could being overseas.

My DadÂ’s dream for when he returned home from the middle east was to have a house by a lake, to own a boat, and to go fishing on the lake. He had recently purchased a home in Memphis near a lake and was excited to buy a small boat so that he could go fishing. I hope that he gets to do that some day.

My Dad was very wise and he always gave me good advice. He encouraged me to continue to do well in school, and for that matter he supported and encouraged me in everything I did. I carry every piece of advice, and all of his love and support, as well as, every memory that we made with me everywhere I go. I treasure it because it may be all that I have left of my father. more...

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The three Romanian victims are Marie Jeanne Ion, Sorin Dumitru Miscoci, and Edward Ovidiu Ohanesian. The American is Iraqi born Mohammed Monaf. The terrorists belong to a group calling itself the Muadh ibn Jabal Brigades.

There was no audio broadcast, but al Jazeera says that reporter Marie Jeanne Ion reads a statement saying they will be killed if Romanian troops are not pulled out of Iraq in four days.

Read on for the Giuliana Sgrena angle. Boston Globe:

Three kidnapped Romanian journalists and their Iraqi-American translator say in a video that they will be killed by their Iraqi captors if Romania does not withdraw its troops within four days, Al-Jazeera reported Friday.

In the video shown by the Arab satellite station, the Romanians two men and a woman sit cross-legged against a black background with their hands chained. A hand is seen on the right pointing a pistol at the hostages.

Reporter Marie Jeanne Ion, sitting between her two colleagues, is seen talking and gesturing with her hands to the camera. Prima TV cameraman Sorin Miscoci appears upset, possibly crying.

Al-Jazeera did not play the audio, but it quoted Ion as saying the Iraqi militants holding them had given the Romanian government four days from the date of the tape's broadcast to remove its 800 soldiers in Iraq. Otherwise, the captives will be killed, Al-Jazeera quoted her as saying....

The kidnappers identified themselves as the ''Muadh ibn Jabal Brigades,'' a previously unknown group. The name refers to a companion of Islam's prophet, Muhammad.

After the journalists were pictured, the video showed a man who appeared to be the translator, Iraqi-American Mohammed Monaf, sitting alone with his hands bound. He is also talking, but there is no sound. Gunmen stand on either side of him, pointing an automatic rifle and a pistol at his head....

Speaking to the camera, Ion gave the news of the ultimatum and called on the Romanian government to accept the kidnappers' demands.

"The journalists appealed to the Romanian government to pull its troops from Iraq to ensure their release”, said the channel.

"Marie-Jeanne Ion, the female hostage, said that the kidnappers gave the Romanian government four days from the release of the video to withdraw its troops from Iraq or the journalists will be killed.

"She asked the Romanian people to organize protests in order to pressure the Romanian government in order to ensure that the kidnappers' demands are met," it added.

Others: Chad at In The Bullpen still thinks this might just be about money. Possibly.

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UPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
-------------------------------

UPDATE: Part 1 of this interview is here.
In part 3, we interview Roy's daughter Carrie here.

American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.

I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 2 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. Part 1 of that interview can be found here. This segment continues the interview with Susan Hallums.

Susan is Roy Hallums ex-wife and the mother of Roy's two daughters, Amanda and Carrie. Susan is in the process of selling the small house she inherited from her mother. The proceeds from the sale will go for a reward offer for information on Roy's wherabouts in Iraq. You can support Roy Hallums family by sending donations to:

Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684

More information is on the Free Roy website.

Rust Shackleford: Ever since we crossed paths I've been following your story and have read that you are in constant contact with the wife of Roberto Tarongoy [a Filipino who was taken hostage with Roy]. Would you like to tell us anything about that relationship? Perhaps there is something you would like to say on behalf of the Tarongoy family?

Susan Hallums: I can't comment on this one Rusty, that is their request.

RS: Have you had any contact with any of the other families of hostages being held in Iraq? Jeffrey Ake, Tim Bell, Bill Bradley, or Dean Sadek, or Mohammed Monaf? If not, is there anything you would like to say to them if you could?

SH: No I havent . I called Jeffrey Ake's company and told them to please call me if they would like to talk to me. That I have been in these terrible shoes for 6 months and if I could help in any way please call me. He has my prayers and hopes that he is released right away. His family also has my prayers and my heart goes out to them. more...

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We've tried to keep up with Maupin's story, but Interested Participant has a good post on the missing soldier.

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UPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
-------------------------------------------
Update: Part 2 of the interview is here.
Part 3 is an interview with Roy Hallums' daughter is here.

American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.

Roy was taken hostage along with six other foreign nationals, including a Fillipino named Robert Tarongoy. The U.S. did not publish the fact that an American citizen had been taken hostage because of a policy of treating civilian abductions as purely private matters. The Jawa Report was the first publication to identify Roy Hallums as the hostage.

Since that time we have been in contact with members of the Hallums family who started leaving comments at our site. Roy's daughter, Carrie Hallums Cooper, and his ex-wife, Susan Hallums, have been leading the charge to keep Roy's plight in the media.

Unfortunately the mainstream media has tended to bury stories of American hostages in the back pages until something dramatic happens, such as the release of a hostage video. The sad fact is that the American hostages in Iraq are forgotten casualties of war. We find this situation unacceptable and pledge to do our part in keeping these victims in the headlines.

I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 1 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. This segment features an interview with Susan Hallums.

Susan is Roy Hallums ex-wife and the mother of Roy's two daughters, Amanda and Carrie. Susan is in the process of selling the small house she inherited from her mother. The proceeds from the sale will go for a reward offer for information on Roy's wherabouts in Iraq. You can support Roy Hallums family by sending donations to:

Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684

More information is on the Free Roy website.

Rusty Shackleford: Can you tell our readers a little something about the kind of man Roy is?

Susan Hallums: Roy is the kind of person that is always well liked by most everyone that is fortunate enough to meet him. He is a very kind and caring man. He has always been a great father and grandfather to our daughters and granddaughter. more...

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4/18/05 Update: Could this all be a hoax? Traderrob first alerted me to this NY Times story which questions the veracity of earlier reports: Sent to Rescue Shiite Hostages, Iraqi Troops Find None:

By this afternoon, Iraqi army officials were reporting that the crisis in Madaen, which had been narrated in a stream of breathless television reports and news agency stories, was nothing but a tissue of rumors and politically motivated accusations.

The hysteria over Madaen was one vivid illustration of the way Iraq's daily violence and sectarian tension, which are real enough, can be easily twisted into fantasy here. In a country where phones are unreliable and roads between cities often blocked, facts can give way to a fast-running engine of rumor. And most people have good reason to believe the worst.

He added that he had contacted some people in Madain and that they confirmed there was a fierce attack on the town despite the absence of fighters.

"We can call this another Falluja," al-Kubaisi said. He noted that interior ministry announced on 14 April that Iraqi forces will attack the town.

"We have urged them to keep the situation calm, but they have insisted to storm this safe city with its Sunni and Shiites residents. Therefore, this operation comes to create a sectarian strife in the town," he added.

Al-Hureya area in al-Wihda neighborhood was raided 22 days ago although there were no rebels there, al-Kubaisi said. Five days later, all families were thrown out, he added.

"Therefore, the issue is a matter of pursuing resistance fighters in Baghdad," he said, adding that "This is a U.S. plan. Unfortunately, Iraqi National Guardsmen have been dragged into such operations."

-----------------------------------------
Speed of Thought is all over this one. Check his site out for updates. The numbers seem to be in flux, some reporting as low as 60 hostages other reports saying 150. Here's a bit of info from The Guardian:

Husseini said about 100 masked militants drove through Madain, capturing Shiite youngsters and old men. He and government officials said between 35 to 100 people were taken hostage.

A resident reached by telephone said the militants had returned early Saturday, shouting through loudspeakers that all Shiites must leave or the hostages would be killed. Later, the resident said, the town appeared calm and there was no sign of insurgents. Other residents said no hostages had been taken. The conflicting accounts could not be reconciled.

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1 As for me, all the U.S. troops who are stuck in Iraq and who do not want to be there are hostages too.

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 17, 2005 12:32 AM (fufbw)

2 Shows what a low life little sneak Colon Babeler is. Only, a lying little creep would sneak back where it wasn't wanted. Lack of character here. No personal pride. But we always knew that.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 17, 2005 08:04 AM (7bKVh)

3 >>>"Husseini said about 100 masked militants drove through Madain, capturing Shiite youngsters and old men." These are Michael Moore's "minutemen", who take old people hostage and use the mentally retarded as suiciders. They are the REVOLUTION, he says.

Posted by: Carlos at April 17, 2005 09:32 AM (8e/V4)

4 What I don't understand is why they took hostages. Is there that much difference between Shites and Sunnis? What is to be gained? I guess just a sick response when losing.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 17, 2005 11:45 AM (sqa1t)

5 Not that much difference between Shiites and Sunnies. However the Kuran says dont become a Shiite because they will serve time in hell.

Posted by: Anwar at April 17, 2005 01:36 PM (YY5vs)

6 Anwar Why?

Posted by: sparky at April 17, 2005 03:29 PM (F1nba)

7 Anwar: You are kidding right. You mean Shiites are like, Catholics, Buddists, Hindus, atheists, Protestants, Jews, etc?. We all go to hell and the Sunni's are the only ones going to heaven. Everyone is wrong but the Sunnis. Saddams guys right. Uday was a Sunni right. Chemical Ali was a Sunni right. They took a about 100 old people and children hostage yesterday. Was that is the name of God? Yea right on! Shining example of Sunnis in action. Model citizens. I understand now. OOOOOOOOKay. Please going to left and read Jawas explained. Your salvation is there.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 17, 2005 04:15 PM (sqa1t)

8 Sigh... If u didnt already know, pretty much every religion condems all that dont follow it. Shiites will only go to hell for their sins and for the fact that they are Shiites. Then they will go to heaven.

Posted by: Anwar at April 17, 2005 05:52 PM (9iPOQ)

9 Congrajulations Rooster! I think this is the first post you have wrote without any profanity in it. Good for you !

Posted by: Anwar at April 17, 2005 05:54 PM (9iPOQ)

10 "Sparky: Why?" Cuz Shiites are a buncha rebels that think the Prophet Mohammeds friend or cousing or something but his name was Ali and they think he shoulda have taken over after the prophet died instead of some other guy. Something like that. Its really silly though. But yeah, there is a lot of other stuff they disagree on with the Sunnis. I really dont know much about this issue but I used to know a Shiite guy. The guy wants to convert everybody into a Shiite. Lol he was crazy. Everytime he talks about something, its about his silly beliefs and arguments.

Posted by: Anwar at April 17, 2005 06:01 PM (9iPOQ)

11 I really need to proofread:S.

Posted by: Anwar at April 17, 2005 06:02 PM (9iPOQ)

12 Anwar Are u sunni?

Posted by: sparky at April 17, 2005 06:19 PM (F1nba)

13 How can you tell a sunni from a shiite? He can burp in two languages.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 17, 2005 08:36 PM (sqa1t)

14 Why do Sunnis pray 5 times a day? Because they sin more than regular people.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 17, 2005 08:37 PM (sqa1t)

15 Why does a Sunni go to mosque? It's the only place he knows with an indoor toilet.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 17, 2005 08:39 PM (sqa1t)

16 Asshole Gooster: Lol very funny Gooster. I have learned to not take offense to your idiotic posts.

Posted by: Anwar at April 17, 2005 08:53 PM (9iPOQ)

17 Sparky: Yup . Iam a Sunni Canadian.

Posted by: Anwar at April 17, 2005 08:57 PM (9iPOQ)

18 He's a sinister syrian spy disquised as a Canadian cowboy. He's easy to spot at the Calgary Stampede. His horse has a big hump.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 17, 2005 10:16 PM (sqa1t)

19 Thats why Canada has mad cow desease. MAD Sunnis humping the COWS equals MAD COWS.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 17, 2005 10:20 PM (sqa1t)

20 His horse has a big hump. LMAO! dude, you're on a roll.

Posted by: Carlos at April 17, 2005 10:24 PM (paKD6)

21 "He's a sinister syrian spy disquised as a Canadian cowboy. He's easy to spot at the Calgary Stampede. His horse has a big hump." LOL. Gooster can you please tell me why you hate me so much?? Lol, if I was a terrorist then you have the right to hate me but Iam not so whats the problem here. I have a right to hate you because you hate my religion, my people, and my way of life. Why, I dont know. Everyday you come up with some new reason to hate, hate, hate. Your a hater. From all the posts you have put up in the month of April I think I have come up with a possible conclusion on this hate issue of yours. From what I readm Iam pretty sure you hate jews, blacks, homosexuals, and ESPECIALLY Muslims. Lol maybe you just hate me because I disagree with your thoughts/opinions/reasonings. Maybe you hate everybody that disagrees with you. If thats the case then you are a sore loser. And do you have something against camels? But hey, who cares if some old retired guy thinks that Muslims suck?

Posted by: Anwar at April 17, 2005 10:28 PM (Tyl0K)

22 Btw, your jokes are stupid. Oh yeah and you dont know how to spell disease. Its not "desease", its disease. You need to proofread too.

Posted by: Anwar at April 17, 2005 10:31 PM (Tyl0K)

23 Someone criticizes the Sunnis taking 100 hostages and now they are a racist? Anwar needs to distance himself from these thugs or be judged with them. Anwar, you are judged by the company you keep. Either renounce these criminals or have the balls to say you stand with them. If your with them, calling someone a racist is pretty weak considering what you have done to 100 innocent people. WHERE IS YOUR COMDEMNATION?

Posted by: Brad at April 17, 2005 10:58 PM (M7kiy)

24 Dear Brad, Would you be willing to renounce preemptive war?

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 17, 2005 11:27 PM (FV4oJ)

25 Wooptiedoo, they freed most of em already, those kidnappers were pretty useless against an army. Preemptive war against Canada just to get Anwar? Go ahead, do it, would be the first time countries with WoMDs start fighting each other since WW2. Might have interesting results, and if you win, you can get a huge amount of wood, furs and maple syrup.

Posted by: A Finn at April 18, 2005 01:30 AM (cWMi4)

26 Could this entire muslims kidnapping muslims thing be just bullshit. I mean who would want one.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 06:32 AM (OJsiJ)

27 A Fin: You have been going off the deep end lately. Just say no to drugs. You are hallucinating and putting things into a conversation that were not there. If you feel like invading Canada do it. However, no one else has indicated the same. Time to do a reality check, sonny.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 06:38 AM (OJsiJ)

28 Anwar: I hate you because you lie. I have never said anything that can be construed by an intelligent person as I hate the Jews. Therefore you lie. I hate liars. Secondly, you are the one would came onto this blog with the anti jewish bullshit. Go back and check your posts. Remember, the I am an Arab post of yours. You accuse me of being that what you are. I hate you because you cheer for the Sunni muslim assholes killing innocents in the middle east. I hate you because you are stupid enough to side with low life traitors like Collin Baber. I hate you because you lie and say I hate all Blacks, homosexuals, etc. This is a lie. I hate you because you are not smart enough to distance yourself from other lying moonbats on this blog. I hate you because you are weak and seek comfort from America's enemies on this blog. I hate you because you are dumb enough to say I am a loser. The truth is I have won every major issue I have joined. Example, Getting rid of Saddam, the presidential election. I hate you because you claim to be Canadian 1st and that is a lie. You have shown your true colors by your lack of neutrality in the Israel/Palestinian question. I hate you because I know in my heart that muslims moving to the Americas will cause problems for my children and grand children. Muslims should not be allowed on this continent because of what I see in every other country muslims have moved to. They are bad for the peace of the world. Nothing personal. Just the facts as I see them. Now do you understand.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 06:56 AM (OJsiJ)

29 Oh, I forgot. I hate you because I am a racist. I am a racist because I think white people are the greatest on earth. I am a racist because I think white people are getting the short end of the stick in America. I am a racist because I am against the anti white liberal bullshit prevalent in American society. Example: My father was killed in WW2. Started by a cowardly sneak attack on Americans sleeping and attending church on a Sunday morning. If the son of the Jap who killed my father moved to America he would be given job preference over me by federal, state, and city governments. I am against this policy. therefore, I am a racist. Ask any moonbat, liberal shithead. I am a product of my enviroment. And I am growing. Telling the truth is racist in America.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 07:14 AM (OJsiJ)

30 Anwar: Who cares about a old retired guy who thinks muslims suck? YOU DO. If you spent more time checking your own spelling. You wouldn't look so stupid when you comment on mine. Another liberal dumbass thing.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 07:22 AM (OJsiJ)

31 Why care? Just drink, love, ignore and reproduce, keep life simple and only interfere with things that you think are funny enough to mess with.

Posted by: A Finn at April 18, 2005 08:39 AM (eFE81)

32 greyrooster There's no Truth in the bull shit you just posted.....White people get the short end of the stick....hahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahaha

Posted by: None Of Yours at April 18, 2005 08:40 AM (22t5y)

33 Anwar, Libs and Arabs and muslims do plenty of hating of their own. We all hate, so you're no better than the next guy. The only difference is what we've chosen to hate.

Posted by: Carlos at April 18, 2005 09:45 AM (paKD6)

34 Anwar Suppose the premise is correct that only the Sunni's will attain the reward of heavan, and that all others will go to hell. What is the basis for the line of thinking that the ones not to be saved must be sent to hell now?

Posted by: Defense Guy at April 18, 2005 12:18 PM (jPCiN)

35 Good point. Obviously, none of yours doesn't know a thing about Federal and State guidelines in hiring. So the turkey is to be ignored.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 02:45 PM (OJsiJ)

36 Defense Guy: All religions condemn its non believers. Islam wasnt the first one to condemn its non believers to hell.

Posted by: Anwar at April 18, 2005 02:57 PM (4R894)

37 Gooster: Racists are people that hate you because of your race. They dont know you but once they find out that you are arab they start hating you. If you are against every single Muslim on this planet just for the fact that they are Muslim then you are a religionist/racist. If you piss on the Kuran then you are a racist. If you are a racist rooster, then you are a bad person.

Posted by: Anwar at April 18, 2005 03:02 PM (4R894)

38 Anwar: I give reasons why I hate. I say who I hate. This makes me more truthful than most. Have you read Jawas explained yet? You are a Jawa. Your religious zealot Jihad is a Tusken Raider. We must watch both of you. Not you as much as Jihad, but must keep an eye out. The fact that you make us uncomfortable is why you shouldn't be here. We did not cause this uncomfortable feeling. YOU DID. You, your religion and the lunatics who subscribe to its backward bullshit. The hatred and mistrust shown to the followers of Islam is caused by the followers of Islam. We do not have this mistrust of Hindus, Buddists, Shindoist, Protestants, Catholics or any other religions. We don't give a damn about voodoo or Santeria. Why because they haven't given us cause to. Islam has. You and others like you are grouped with the Islamofacists because to do not condemn them or their followers. You refrain from condemning the Sunni murderers, etc. When muslims cry out loudly against Islamic terrorists who condone beheadings, bombings and murder then we will listen to you and yours. Not until. If other religions condemn others to hell because they believe differently as least they do it quitely. Instead of the calls for death and destruction that your religion screams for. I cannot talk for others, but my hate for Islam is because Islam worked hard to get me to hate them. As A FINN has said: Better to drink, eat, fornicate, go fishing and have fun than to spend my valuable time making speeches against Islam. America has been good to me. I have worked hard to set myself up for a comfortable exciting existence. I could ignore the Islamic threat, but that would be selfish. you see, I have children and grand children. It would not be wise to ignore a threat to their future. Their future is threatened by two major things. Islam and liberalism. My parade is not driven by hate. Rather one of there is a snake in the house and I must get rid of it before it bites someone. When you take a believeable stand against the Islamofacists. Then I will look at you as an equal. Until then, you represent the enemy. Whether you wish to be or not. Hateful? Call it whats you will. I call it meeting a real challenge to the peace and dignity of the world.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 03:24 PM (OJsiJ)

39 And quit saying if I believe this or that I am a racist. I admit it. I am a racist. What pisses me off is that you other racists will not admit it. I have already given you a thousand reasons that cause me to be a racist. Need another thousand?

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 03:31 PM (OJsiJ)

40 Anwar: Your reply to Defense Guy sounds like a 3 three year old. He did it first, ya, ya,. They did it first, ya,ya. If they do it first makes it okay right!!!! Muslim thinking. Yuk. Children, merely children. And must be treated as such. Spank em until they understand they can't do that.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 03:37 PM (OJsiJ)

41 Anwar "Defense Guy: All religions condemn its non believers. Islam wasnt the first one to condemn its non believers to hell." It would help, I suppose, if you actually read the question I asked. Is there a difference between condemning non believers to hell and actually attempting to send them there?

Posted by: Defense Guy at April 18, 2005 04:06 PM (jPCiN)

42 Of the 41 posts on this string, 17 or 41% are from Greyrooster. Rooster, quit flapping your furgina!

Posted by: greg at April 18, 2005 04:46 PM (/+dAV)

43 Anwar Didnt you post that your wife was a christian? If so i really dont understand how you can condone this behaviour. I would like to know your wife's opinion on this matter. What we shouldnt forget is this is not a war against a Religion at least its not supposed to be. Remember the solidiers in Iraq are helping iraqis and the majority of them are muslim. Why do you think the terrorists are targeting their own countrymen? This i'll never understand. If you are against a regime why kill your fellow countrymen? THATS NUTS ! Or could it be that the terrorists in Iraq are from neibouring countries and thats why so many innocents are being killed. Now its becoming a sectarian war. I just wish the people who have iraq's best interests at heart would be left to get on with running the country, where the people can have Electricity anytime day or night, or running hot water or food to feed their children. Most importantly an Education system where they are not taught that, all in the world that is Evil is the West, because that seems to be a big problem over there. These are all little things that we take every day for granted. I cannot imagine a life where your Government could shoot you dead in the street or slaughter your family because he didnt like your face, or dare i say it, your Religion. I would bloodly well want someone to come and say this must stop. Saddam was living like a king while his people were living in poverty and he was killing them. GREEDY EVIL B$£$%$£% Do you think the problem in Iraq is that the terrorists dont want the people of Iraq to know anything, that it suits them for people to be ignorant of the facts or the outside world. Not that i am saying it is wrong but These people have choices and its high time they were allowed to make their own. Its no-one place to tell you whats right or wrong for you. Let them make their own minds up. Oh and the men who flew those planes lived the high life in the West I might add drinking beer and going with women. That to me makes them Hypocrites not martyrs as some would like to believe. Oh and Selfish into the bargain. Phew, now im puffed out.

Posted by: sparky at April 18, 2005 05:30 PM (F1nba)

44 Greg you have to admit that, Calgery Camel Comment was hilarious even Anwar thought that was funny. To treat that other than a joke would be wrong

Posted by: sparky at April 18, 2005 05:37 PM (F1nba)

45 "It would help, I suppose, if you actually read the question I asked. Is there a difference between condemning non believers to hell and actually attempting to send them there?" Defense Guy: The Quran doesnt say anything about killing the non believers. In fact there is a famous ayah in the Kuran of the prophet Mohammed telling a non believer that tried to convert him that: You dont believe in what I believe in and I dont belive in what you believe in, I have my own religion, and so do you. This means that muslims should not be using force against non beleivers in an attempt to convert them. They should definetly not be killing all that oppose Islam. In the Quran it also says to let the non believers be, Allah will deal with them in the afterlife.

Posted by: Anwar at April 18, 2005 06:07 PM (4R894)

46 Sparky: Yes, I agree with all that you said. I really dont understand why there are Sunnis taking Shiites hostage. Its all very silly. Anyone, who takes any religion too seriously is silly. P.S. My wife doesnt like politics. She watches Al Jazeera or CNN from time to time and she says it makes her sick.

Posted by: Anwar at April 18, 2005 06:16 PM (4R894)

47 I have to say i agree with her

Posted by: sparky at April 18, 2005 06:27 PM (F1nba)

48 Anwar: Is progress being made? Your statements concerning the terrorists are a begining? In reality they didn't really have much convincing fervor. I question where you put in "should not be killing all who oppose Islam" Ah, you sly little arab you. The word ALL is the key. Just Americans and their allies huh. An excuse if Jihad pays you a visit? Must be careful what you say. Who knows, some Sunni fanatic from your mosque may be reading your posts. Chop, chop. Greg, you traitorous little shit. There is plenty of room for you to speak your insanity. That is if you start telling the truth for a change.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 07:43 PM (OJsiJ)

49 Sparky: Up tight? Try scotch and water. It works for me. And probably a lot cheaper for you.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 07:55 PM (OJsiJ)

50 Mr friend Greyrooster, Usually hatred is based on fear. The Bushian War Cult has done an excellent job baiting and switching us to follow him and his crusade. You can say no any time.

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 18, 2005 07:56 PM (FV4oJ)

51 I don't speak to traitors. In Particular to ones who have been banned and are so shameless they sneak back on. Then again, traitors have no shame.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 18, 2005 09:20 PM (OJsiJ)

52 My friend Greyrooster, This person is a patriot, has no guilt and feels no shame.

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 18, 2005 10:56 PM (FV4oJ)

53 I don't speak to traitors.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 19, 2005 06:11 AM (K/qjk)

54 My friend Greyrooster, There is no need to be afraid. Deep in your soul, you are not a racist.

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 19, 2005 06:14 AM (FV4oJ)

55 But he is a racist, don't take that away from him, he'd become terribly disoriented. Hey Rooster, Let's say you're fishin' for tuna in the gulf and you come upon a Vietnamese American fisherman that has capsized his boat and is clinging on to it for dear life. What would you do, rescue him or cut him up and use him for shark bait? Let's say he was black. Let's say he was Islamic.

Posted by: greg at April 19, 2005 08:22 AM (/+dAV)

56 Anwar You should consider applying for the job of Martin Luther for Islam. Too many of those running the show in the name of your religion do not appear to be on the same page as you, and it is giving you all a bad name.

Posted by: Defense Guy at April 19, 2005 12:29 PM (jPCiN)

57 Greg I bet you he would save him regardless!

Posted by: sparky at April 19, 2005 05:38 PM (F1nba)

58 "You should consider applying for the job of Martin Luther for Islam. Too many of those running the show in the name of your religion do not appear to be on the same page as you, and it is giving you all a bad name." Defense Guy: Lol, Iam an Enginner, not a Politician. Those who run the show for Islam have such deep hatred for America and Israel that it blinds them and makes the extremists in their eyes the good guys and America/Israel the bad ones. They fail to see the evil in the hearts of the extremists. A lot of Muslims do see that what the extremists are doing is bad and against Islam but unfortunately there is still a number of Muslims that support Bin Laden and his regime against America/Israel/Non Belivers. It is against Islam to blow up schools full of children. It is against Islam to kidnap Iraqi officials and behead them because they are working with America. It is against Islam to kill Hindus just because their not Muslim. These terrorists are not good Muslims at all. Their just using Islam as an excuse and making the religion look hatefull and horrific.

Posted by: Anwar at April 19, 2005 06:14 PM (9cHDR)

59 No Sparky, there is a bigger chance that this drowning Muslim man would somehow swim to shore and survive, then there is a chance that Rooster would save his ass. This Crazy Man Rooster told me he pisses on the Kuran. Daily. I mean even if he did save this man, it wouldnt work out. You dont save someone belonging to a religion that you hate. Maybe one day he would come to visit the man that saved his life and find him pissing on a Kuran. Imagine his reaction. LOL. Rooster would get murked by the man that he once saved!

Posted by: Anwar at April 19, 2005 06:56 PM (9cHDR)

60 Anwar I seriously think you dont realise that half the time he is just looking to cause a commontion. Maybe im wrong but call it intuition, i dont think he would leave a man to die because he was black or muslim. I think what people tend to missunderstand and judge about him is the fact the he is pro white. What he is saying is if black and muslims or anyone for that matter is allowed to differentiate or discriminate then why arent white's? Its simple really, some of the points he makes, make sense. I am sure he plays it up for effect and he is seriously funny at times. It does get people going doesnt it. Admittedly when i first started to read his posts i thought is this guy serious! Maybe i have read him wrong and i am sure he will let me know in no uncertain terms if he disagrees, which he will and i will be the butt of his next joke but thats ok i dont mind Point being Anwar a lot of people on this site think it is wrong what he says and sometimes he does go a little mad but if he were not white saying these things then all whites would be expected to be tolerant anyone objecting to their speech would be accused of being racist. do you get what i mean? Anyway Anwar prepare for the onslaught, me im going to hide so he cant find me

Posted by: sparky at April 19, 2005 07:38 PM (F1nba)

61 If he were vietnamese. I would tell him I would rescue him if he promised not to speak vietnamese all day on channel 16. If he were black it would be a non-issue. Those guys sink like rocks. If he were Islamic. I would ask if he were Sunni. If he said no and shouted Osama is an asshole I would save him. If not. Shark bait. But I wouldn't cut him up. I would run over him with my 32" prop. Now that's what we call Islamochum.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 19, 2005 08:10 PM (K/qjk)

62 Anwar: Where is your CONDEMATION? I am a Mechanical Engineer. One thing I learned during 17 years as co-owner of a Engineering firm. Arabs and other middle easterners make shitty Engineers. Everyone we had to replace due to incompetence, cried that we were racists and attempted to get his job back thru the courts. The fact that he couldn't/wouldn't do his job apparently didn't cross his mind. I never went to court. My two partners always did. Tagi and Frederick Sabour (means peaceful in Farsi). Both born in Iran. Again where is your CONDEMATION of the Sunni murderers?

Posted by: greyrooster at April 19, 2005 08:28 PM (K/qjk)

63 Oh yea! The fact that mine was the only firm in the Bay area that gave them a chance skipped their minds. Some told me they had been looking for work in their profession for up to two years. Now they are back looking.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 19, 2005 09:27 PM (K/qjk)

64 Anwar: which branch of Canadian government to you work for. The city, the province or the commonwealth? Are you a civil engineer?

Posted by: greyrooster at April 19, 2005 09:29 PM (K/qjk)

65 rooster, Anwar's right, cut him some slack. He's the good kind of muslim we're trying to encourage to speak out. Being a muslim isn't a crime if they mind their own business.

Posted by: Carlos at April 20, 2005 07:43 AM (tFXpR)

66 "Being a muslim isn't a crime if they mind their own business."-Carlos Carlos, Are you getting soft man!

Posted by: greg at April 20, 2005 09:31 AM (/+dAV)

67 greg, it's a little something called "nuance".

Posted by: Carlos at April 20, 2005 09:38 AM (tFXpR)

68 We should encourage Moslems who interpret the Koran as NOT stating they must kill infidels.

Posted by: Young Bourbon Professional at April 20, 2005 11:28 AM (x+5JB)

69 "We should encourage Moslems who interpret the Koran as NOT stating they must kill infidels."-YBP Yes we should, but making war on Islam is not going to get it done.

Posted by: greg at April 20, 2005 02:38 PM (/+dAV)

70 Rooster: What do you mean wheres my condemnation? I condemn all Sunni Muslims that take Shiites people hostage. Why? First of all if they were good muslims they wouldnt be doing that. Second of all, its stupid and not the right way to achieve their goal. Whatever it is :/. Wow, how did you know I was a Civil Engineer? I work for the city. "If he were Islamic. I would ask if he were Sunni. If he said no and shouted Osama is an asshole I would save him. If not. Shark bait. But I wouldn't cut him up. I would run over him with my 32" prop. Now that's what we call Islamochum." What if the guy WAS Sunni and told you he was Sunni when you asked him. But he is against Bin Ladens Regime. Would you save him?

Posted by: Anwar at April 20, 2005 02:48 PM (dnn8b)

71 What if the guy WAS Sunni and told you he was Sunni when you asked him. But he is against Bin Ladens Regime. Would you save him? Anwar, yes, we would save him.

Posted by: Carlos at April 20, 2005 03:03 PM (tFXpR)

72 Anwar: I guessed that you were a civil engineer and worked for a government agency because Ah, I'm going to give you some slack and not tell you why. I will say there is nothing civil about a civil engineer. I noticed that you said the words taking Shiite people hostage. Again, you sly little arab you. This time you slipped in the word Shiite. Gives you an out Huh! Can't fool the greyrooster. Still afraid Jihad will pay you a visit? If he were Sunni. I would hold him hostage for money after dragging him around the ocean for a while. Because I would know he was lying. A Sunni is a Sunni. A racist is a racist. They will not change. Nor will I. Soon the Sunni trouble makers in Iraq will be rewarded for their deeds. America will try to protect them but the Shiites and Kurds will have their revenge. It's an Arab thing. Now say after me. It is wrong to take anyone hostage. It is wrong to blow up people sitting at restaurants in Israel. It is wrong to kidnap civilians. It is wrong to kill innocent civilians. It is wrong to crash planes into buildings. It is wrong to force your religion on others. It is wrong not the accept the majority decision of an election. It is wrong to stand while taking a crap. When you say these things without reservation. Then I may enter into equal dialogue with you. Until then you are just another camel jockey.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 20, 2005 03:15 PM (aq8Ok)

73 Carlos: First Colon Babeler, now Anwar. Who is next. Greg? You worry me.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 20, 2005 03:24 PM (aq8Ok)

74 Rooster's a bare-backed ass jockey.

Posted by: greg at April 20, 2005 04:12 PM (/+dAV)

75 Greg is exposing his ass again. Something he does whenever a male is around. Man, dog, donkey. All the same to him. This traitorous dog has a sign on his ass saying pay as you enter. All credit cards accepted. Double green stamps on tuesdays. Muslims enter free. Bring your camel.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 20, 2005 08:32 PM (aq8Ok)

76 You people are slow. The one about the vietnamese on channel 16 was hilarious. Islamochum was almost as good. Is there no friggin fisherpersons out there? The one about the raghead cabbie and the liberty bell should be a classic for all time. The only one anyone got of the horse with the hump. Damn it boy! Wake up! Intellecturals my ass. Shit! The guys with the hoods on the river would pick up on these jokes. Am I joking over your heads? Am I dealing with a bunch of shut ins who never go anywhere or experience anything besides a computer keyboard?

Posted by: greyrooster at April 20, 2005 08:48 PM (aq8Ok)

77 Update: They found bodies in the Tigris and outside the city. How many Zarqawis are there?

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 21, 2005 03:39 AM (FV4oJ)

78 Rooster hates black people because he's got the white man's penis envy.

Posted by: greg at April 21, 2005 09:34 AM (/+dAV)

79 This is for Rooster. It is wrong to take anyone hostage. It is wrong to blow up people sitting at restaurants in Israel. It is wrong to kidnap civilians. It is wrong to kill innocent civilians. It is wrong to crash planes into buildings. It is wrong to force your religion on others. It is wrong not the accept the majority decision of an election. Happy? Now YOU repeat after ME. I will not insult Muslims by saying hateful things like I piss on the Kuran. I will not get angry and hate somebody just because they dont have the same opinion as I. I will not run around and call all my buddys that know or dont know the Jawa Report and tell them to vote yes on banning Collin. I will not think that all Muslims are terrorists.

Posted by: Anwar at April 21, 2005 06:09 PM (QeEbb)

80 Notice Greg the traitor is back to the fixation on dicks again. A good Catholic. I thought the church was getting rid of perverts. Can you see this asshole in the confessional. Bless me father for I have sinned. I talk, dream, thing about and wish for sucking dicks and fucking asses all day. But I am a good Catholic.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 21, 2005 07:50 PM (CBNGy)

81 Anwar: You forgot it is wrong to stand while taking a crap. I will not get angry and hate somebody just because they don't have the same opinion as I. The rest is bullshit and I will not swear to them. I will continue to piss on the Kuran until Osama is caught. I you are saying I cheated on the vote. You are a liar. A muslim thing. I will not think all muslims are terrorists? I believe all terrorists are muslims. I believe Islam breeds terrorists so Islam and terrorist are the same. I believe anyone who is friendly with Colon Babeler cannot be trusted. I believe muslims should stay in their own messed up countries. Countries they messed up because of their religion. If they screwed up their countries with their stupid religion we are fools to let them come here. I believe we are at war with Islamofacists. This is a war. Not a personality contest. I believe muslims cause problems and hatred where ever they go. I believe muslims produce nothing, invent nothing and are a backward people. I believe most muslims are to stupid to change. How's that for today's hate message. I anything I said is untrue please prove it.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 21, 2005 08:14 PM (CBNGy)

82 Anwar, email me at roach747@yahoo.com

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 22, 2005 02:42 AM (FV4oJ)

83 well i guess all of u are going in the wrong direction i might have not read "most" of what had been posted here, but i can still assure u that something is wrong over here, dude, whatever ur opinions are just drop it and forget about cults and races and all the other fucking bullshit u've been talking crap about, i am a shiite, i dont hate sunnis i dont hate christians i dont hate jews, i only hate those who hate me for who i might belong to or who even underestimate me anyway here's something really stupid i read the other day lol it makes me laugh my fucking ass out: One day during the period of Muslim rule in Spain, Imaam Abu Muhammad ibn Hazm was having a debate with some Spanish Catholic priests about their religious texts. He brought before them evidence of textual distortions in the Bible and the loss of original manuscripts. When they replied by pointing out to him Shi`ite claims also being distorted, Ibn Hazm informed them that Shi`ite could not be used as evidence against the Quraan or against Muslims because they are not themselves Muslims." [Ibn Hazm, al-Fisaal fee al-Milal wa an-Nihal, 2/78 and 4/182] Their claims have been rebutted by numerous other early scholars like Ibn Taymeeyah in Minhaaj as-Sunnah, adh-Dhahabee in Muntaqaa min Minhaaj al-I`tidaal, Ibn Katheer in his history book [al-Bidaayah wa an-Nihaayah], Ibn al-Jawzee in Talbees Iblees, and al-Qaadee ibn al-`Arabee in al-`Awwaasim min al-Qawaasim. NOW could u plz tell me who the fuck does that guy consider himself to decide that shiis are infidels? lmfao shit! that freak was comparing the distortion of the "bible" to the shiite claims!! fuck! how near is the bible to such claims anyway? wonderful! and who is he anyway to make his decision about shiis? i mean who ever gave him the right to classify shiites as non-muslims? i wonder if good sent him an sms prior to that so claimed to be debate! he neither has the right to falsify christians nor the right to disgrace shiites, noone has such rights, besides, who knows! it might turn out that buddhists are the only ones to be allowed in heaven! open up fellows, ur doors are still locked up we all still have a long journey ahead of us, lets not get so distracted by our foolish and unrational primitive thoughts

Posted by: sickcycle at April 29, 2005 05:46 PM (iDddD)

Hide Comments | Add Comment

A video of an American civilian contractor taken hostage in Baghdad on April 10th has been aired by Al Jazeera television. The victim's name is Jeffrey Ake.

Our earlier report on Jeffrey Ake is here. The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad now confirms Mr. Ake's identity. As with Roy Hallums, the State Department did not confirm his identity until after a video tape was released.

Links to video will be posted here as soon as they are available.....

Al Jazeera reports:

The tape on Wednesday showed a man sitting behind a wooden desk as three men pointed their guns towards him.

He was holding what looked like a passport and a photo identification.

SMH reports:

The hostage, who was shown surrounded by gunmen, called on the US administration to "open a dialogue with the Iraqi resistance" and strive to save his life, Al-Jazeera said.

He also urged US forces to promptly pull out of Iraq.

Could this be a further sign of the weakening of the insurgency?

Since there was no money demand mentioned, it also is very unlikely that those responsible for this kidnapping are financial opportunists. However, part of the deleted audio may have made a ransom demand.

Further, this is not the M.O. of the usual terrorist suspects. While I cannot say for certain, the video does not appear to show the banners of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi's al Qaeda in Iraq, The Army of Ansar al-Sunna, or The Islamic Army of Iraq.

Hat tip to James Joyner who e-mailed me about this while I was in class. He's also all over this one.

UPDATE 12:09: More information on Jeffrey Ake. According to WISHTV, Ake is from Northern Indiana. He is the President of a Rolling Prairie, IN, based water company, Equipment Express.

According to a local news article dated November 19, 2003, and reprinted at Equipment Express' website:

Equipment Express is again helping with the rebuilding effort in Iraq.

A Western European country that company president Jeff Ake couldn't identify because of contractual reasons hired the Rolling Prairie company to construct an integrated system that will provide water bottles to be sold in Baghdad.

A second system for Iraq will be built in January.
Equipment Express began construction on the system Nov. 3, completed the work Tuesday and will ship it out today. It should arrive in Baghdad around Christmas.

"We're called Equipment Express because we are fast. It's exciting to be part of the rebuilding effort," Ake said.

Equipment Express constructed "An integrated system that provided water bottles to be sold in Baghdad ... they have also constructed a machine that fills edible oil into containers to be used by Iraqi residents," according to information on the company Web site.

A fast growing Rolling Prairie company will be helping the humanitarian effort in Iraq.

A manufacturer Friday asked Equipment Express, 4744 E. Oak Knoll Rd., if it could construct as quickly as possible a machine that will fill edible oil into containers to be used for the millions of recently liberated Iraqi people....

Not everyone will drop what they're doing to manufacture the machine, but "there's a fair amount of effort being put into it. There will be some overtime."

Much of the Middle East needs the edible oil because it's used in so much of the people's cooking.

"It's extremely important to that culture, to cook almost anything. If they have grain, clean water and oil, they are able to feed themselves."

This isn't the first time Equipment Express handiwork has benefited the Middle East. Water treatment systems that include bottling, rinsing, filling and labeling capacities were built here and are being used in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

UPDATE 12:45: It appears that Jeffrey Ake was also a nationally recognized export specialist. His name appears frequently as a convention speaker on the subject.

UPDATE 12:50: White House chimes in....KHNL

White House press secretary Scott McClellan describes the situation as very "sensitive," adding that the administration is in touch with the family of the missing contract worker.

But he says U-S policy calls for no negotiations with kidnappers.

Another American was just kidnapped in Iraq. His name is Mohammed Monaf. No video, no coverage. It's sad.

Or what about the other American hostages being held? Roy Hallums, Dean Sadek, Tim Bell, and Bill Bradley? Or of the missing Army Spc. Keith Maupin?

Developing........

Others: Mike King, Chad Evans, Secure Liberty, Rooftop Report

Posted by: Rusty at 11:31 AM | Comments (45) | Add Comment
Post contains 847 words, total size 7 kb.

1 The best thing his family could have hoped for at this stage was for the kidnappers to NOT be Zarqawi's mob; so I guess this video is kind of good news. I don't buy the negotiating plea though - as far as I'm concerned these types of people only ever want one of two things: money or blood.

Posted by: Martin at April 13, 2005 11:46 AM (oe5ye)

2 "Could this be a further sign of the weakening of the insurgency?" Rusty, We are slowly winning agaisnt them, but still they are strong enough that US and Iraq'i forces have not one the first front and made them fall back to the second front: operating out of small villages. Most of your insurgancy fights can be drawn on three fronts: 1. Cities 2. Villages 3. Wilderness Each of these can be broken down into three sub areas of guerilla/insurgancy activity: 1. Open activity - kidnappings, assasinations, extortion, and meetings held without security forces being a deterrance. 2. Closed Activity - Day or night Activity with very carefully planned day operations. Security forces can match or better the insurgents. 3. Minimal activity - Primarily night and covert activity with strong security forces capabilities limiting insurgent activity. We have just knocked them offbalance in the cities and need to follow through in every area. I wouldnt even be planning the champaigne delivery yet but its a good sign that their activities are being severly limited.

Posted by: Salamander at April 13, 2005 11:54 AM (F26eZ)

3 Yeah, but as Collin would say, what did he do to provoke this rage.

Posted by: Carlos at April 13, 2005 11:57 AM (8e/V4)

4 Looks like some scumbag Iraqi employee has fingered him to a criminal kidnap gang with him being CEO and everything. My thoughts are with him.

Posted by: frank at April 13, 2005 01:52 PM (n2sxj)

5 Carlos: No, it's going to be Programmed Message #2--"The kidnappers must be brought to trial." (As opposed to Programmed Message #3, which demands some URL from Greyrooster.

Posted by: Young Bourbon Professional at April 13, 2005 02:29 PM (QV5+c)

6 Ey Bourbon what URL is he talking about?

Posted by: Anwar at April 13, 2005 05:42 PM (lxByx)

7 Anwar it was something Greyrooster claimed about Falluja i think but it was a while ago and colin keeps asking about it

Posted by: sparky at April 13, 2005 05:47 PM (F1nba)

8 Hi Anwar, It was a quote that Greyrooster claims I made.

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 13, 2005 06:20 PM (FV4oJ)

9 As Scott McClellan alluded, the situation in Iraq is sensitive. U.S. helicopters and heavy artillery bombarded houses in al-Rummana village Seven children, six women and three old men were among the dead.

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 13, 2005 06:52 PM (FV4oJ)

10 I hope Sam acts honorably and negotiates in good faith for his release.

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 13, 2005 07:29 PM (FV4oJ)

11 It refers to a post that I made. The post was this. Quote posted by Collin Baber on another blog. I then entered Collin Baber's post and the date of its/his/hers/traitors post. In follow up I hinted that if one wished to find about the traitor Collin Baber, One could go to Dogpile.com and enter Collin Baber. This I wish to happen to open the eyes of many. Giving URL address would deny people the opportunity to find more info on this commie dog. I also hinted at Posse Incitatus as a good start. The shit sprewed by this lower than life scum should be seen and investigated by all. So investigate by yourselves. You will come up with much more than I can enter. Ever heard the saying get them enough rope? Here is another post by Collin Babler, March 5, 2005 12:12 AM on another blog. "Al-Qaeda, as portrayed, is a figment of the imagination. America needed to create a coherent organization to prosecute Mr. Bin laden under U.S. law. Hence, Al-Qaeda was born in a courtroom. Bin Laden learned that Americans were calling his group of followers "Al-Qaeda" and then accepted the name as an honor. A tip of the iceberg.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 13, 2005 08:32 PM (CBNGy)

12 Dear Greyrooster, Your investigative journalism is deeply appreciated. Now, to the quote in question.. http://mypetjawa.mu.nu/archives/073712.php April 1, 2005 at 8:54 AM, Mr. Greyrooster alleges that a certain person said something about Falluja. All that is being asked is that the URL of that alleged quote be posted for our sake.

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 13, 2005 08:46 PM (FV4oJ)

13 I dont know who to believe here:/.

Posted by: Anwar at April 13, 2005 08:48 PM (lxByx)

14 I observe that the leader of the forces of evil (Colon Babler) has recruited a dog to lick at his heels. What's the name of those little shits from the desert? You know the ones dressed in a Beka. Oh yea. Jawas. At last, we have our own real live Jawa. "AKA Anwar the syrian". Sounds sinister.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 13, 2005 08:49 PM (CBNGy)

15 Dear Anwar, Spider 41

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 13, 2005 09:12 PM (FV4oJ)

16 Dear Greyrooster, Despite numerous attempts to find the mystery URL, this person simply cannot find that Falluja quote allegedly made on November 5, 2004. Perhaps it's another "16 words"?

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 13, 2005 11:46 PM (FV4oJ)

17 I think there are just some things we will never know. Cindy

Posted by: firstbrokenangel at April 13, 2005 11:55 PM (PEKrh)

18 Cindy: We will know. You should no me by now. Just keep giving a little more rope.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 14, 2005 12:16 AM (CBNGy)

19 Cindy: Excuse spelling. I'm in the middle of getting shit faced. Haven't slept in two days and must force myself to go to bed now. Have to get up at five to go catch some tuna. Bye

Posted by: greyrooster at April 14, 2005 12:18 AM (CBNGy)

20 First: Wierdest.Comments.Ever. Second I tend to believe that this isn't the 'behead-a-hostage' wing of insurgents yet, and I'd be willing to bet that these jokers are looking for cash. That said, there does seem to be some evidence that hostages can get shuffled between groups after capture, and can eventually be traded up to Zarqawi.

Posted by: goldfalcon at April 14, 2005 01:38 AM (LCCTJ)

21 Those Zarqawi followers must stand trial and be punished for their heinous crimes.

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 14, 2005 06:11 AM (fufbw)

22 "Another American was just kidnapped in Iraq. His name is Mohammed Monaf. No video, no coverage. It's sad." That's wrong. He was abducted with the 3 Romanian journalists. He appears in the footage from Al Jazeera. He is the in the right side of the image. According to Romanian newspapers he is an irqian-romanian and american at the same time. He is living in Romania and apparently he is accused of big economical frauds.

Posted by: Alex at April 14, 2005 06:25 AM (DPcX4)

23 "Those Zarqawi followers must stand trial and be punished for their heinous crimes." I knew it was coming! Anwar--Sorry I didn't get back to you in time, but I think Sparky answered the question.

Posted by: Young Bourbon Professional at April 14, 2005 08:29 AM (x+5JB)

24 Collin, just curious. What's up with the pre-programmed responses. What's the point.

Posted by: Carlos at April 14, 2005 12:57 PM (8e/V4)

25 I don't get it...this guy provided clean water for Iraq through his company! WTF do they intend to accomplish by kidnapping someone for the good of their country? I can see if they got an American soldier, but not innocent civilians.

Posted by: Laura at April 14, 2005 01:38 PM (L3PPO)

26 They are all mad these insurgents, and their stupid religion too. They're all pretty sure they will go to hell, so they are practicing it here on earth!

Posted by: Kithuku at April 14, 2005 02:02 PM (0QyPJ)

27 Kithuku: Don't beat around the bush. How do you really feel?

Posted by: Young Bourbon Professional at April 14, 2005 02:04 PM (x+5JB)

28 Rooster I just want u to know that from now on anytime ur shit comes up in any of the articles and I hear u talking shit about me imma just do the exact same thing as Collin. Im going to ask for that Falluja URL .

Posted by: Anwar at April 14, 2005 03:38 PM (7r1IC)

29 Zarqawi is beyond amnesty.

Posted by: Collin Baber at April 14, 2005 07:06 PM (FV4oJ)

30 Anwar: I just want you to know that you stink like all jawas.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 15, 2005 06:06 AM (7480p)

31 Greyrooster, Collin and I are still waiting for that Falluja URL..

Posted by: Anwar at April 15, 2005 02:21 PM (UlGF3)

32 Greyrooster no longer speaks to filthy muslims.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 16, 2005 08:34 AM (sB5vg)

33 Until we flattened their country Iraqis had plenty of clean water. I was there just befor the first time we bombed Iraq in 1989 and the country was booming. The Israelis tricked us into flattening pretty well the whole place, killing about 105,000 civillians as well as 236,000 military as well. No wonder they are a little pissed at us and will continue to fight for their freedom.

Posted by: James at April 17, 2005 12:25 AM (cYLri)

34 James: It is not gay pride week. Back in the closet.

Posted by: greyrooster at April 17, 2005 09:55 PM (sqa1t)

35 kidnappings?well for god sake why do you americans insist on going to a dangerous place to earn decent money?you know the risks involved so dont go.dont forget you started this war and your occupying thier country.how would you like that?you go to iraq then you run the risk of being exacuted.about time you wake up.another thing,if you think the terrorists are losing there grip your sadly mistaken.it just means there tactics will get even more horendous

Posted by: bloodhound at April 19, 2005 08:06 PM (/RFGK)

36 I am from the area of Jeff Ake. His family has been told not to speak with the media. Same with his company. The prayer service that was scheduled to be held for him was abruptly cancelled with no reason given. Now his house is up for sale and his family was seen moving out with a police escort. What are people supposed to think? We have heard nothing more about him or his situation from the government. Did they just let him get killed and expect we would all forget?

Posted by: IndianaGirl at April 28, 2005 12:50 PM (g1fjT)

37 My heart goes out to Jeff and his family. I knew Jeff from school and I can't imagine what he and his family is going thru. No one should have to go thru this! I am keeping them all in my prayers.

Posted by: Debbie at April 29, 2005 10:36 PM (fhO0w)

38 i can answer that now.he went to iraq because he was greedy.plain and simple.sorry i certainly wont be holding a vigile for him or any other person who wants to make a fast buck.whats the point of earning all this money only not to be able to spend it because you have been tortured and beheaded????????????????

Posted by: bloodhound at May 02, 2005 12:46 AM (qO92Z)

39 Today is the 5th May and I cant find any news about Jeffrey Ake which leads me to believe that he has either been topped or Bush and Co.e making a deal. I hope he lives. One question. How come his captors are armed with US military rifles, one of them a sniper rifle??? I still am of the opinion that one has to be realy crazy to go to Iraq if one is American, British or Australian. Those govts. seem to put little value on their citizens and unlike the Turks, Russians, French, Italians and Chinese, who seem to manage to get their citizens out alive, aparently simple let them die some horrible death and use that for propagander purposes!!! Not good. It would also be a good idea to find better quality US troops rather than use bombers and helicopter gunships. They are still killing mostly women and children which is not going to win the hearts and minds. What a mess the pentagon is making.

Posted by: James at May 04, 2005 11:00 PM (hrhSl)

40 james do you honestly think the american government will strike a deal with them?.how do you think the other hostages familys would feel about that?it would be cruel and a bloody insult.wake up man.you cant start a dialogue with these people now.its gone way past that stage.i know its not confirmed but you can pretty sure he wont come out of captivity alive.no way these people would risk there lives in capturing the so called infedel only to release them again.

Posted by: bloodhound at May 05, 2005 11:06 PM (PXfdN)

41 Hello everyone. I am from Southwest Michigan, near the border of Indiana where the American Hostage, Jeffrey Ake, called home. I too was wondering what news existed of his capture, or release. After reading some posts here, I thought I might address some of the other comments. As to American involvment in Iraq, there are those who would disagree with this policy, but I am in support of modern-day offensive which targets international criminals (aka terrorists) and holds those governments who harbor them accountable. These extreme fanaticals have no regard for the human rights of others who do not subscribe to the same religious faith and lifestyle as their own. They have made it known that they will indiscriminately kill the "infidels." As to those brave individuals, from any country, who enter a war-torn nation to help rebuild, I say thank you. I do not care if money is an issue for them. It is an issue for most people, and some would commit illegal acts to obtain it. Yes, it is a risk to go there for profit, but it is also a necessary task, and not many would go for free. If we do not enter these oppressed nations and root out the evil that holds the innocent hostages, raping the women, and murdering the men and children, then the problem will eventually come to us. Their fate will become our fate To "bloodhound," it is clear that you are sadly misguided and naive. The Americans did not actually start this war. Saddam did when he invaded Kuwait, and the coalition of nations drove him out in the first Gulf War. He was given restrictions by the Untited Nations, and conditions to obey, with which he did not fully cooperate. Lacking the complete, open disclosure, and unfettered inspections, it became the decision of our government (with other allied countries) that it was better to bring Saddam to task and ensure he was not in violation of pursuing nuclear weapons then to wait and find out after it was too late. Faulty intelligence reports matters not when it comes down to the fact that Saddam simply would not comply fully with inspections. This might not be a popular course of action, but it is a legitimate one, and one that I support. If a convicted criminal presents a "potential" threat to me, and my family - - If they point at me and say I will kill you the frist chance I get, I will take them down and find out later if they actually had a gun on them or not. If not, then they were the fool (and the criminal) for making a threat and disobeying the law. Saddam violated international law and refused to obey the sanctions. I find no fault in calling his bluff, even if it was only a bluff. No Weapons of Mass Distruction?? - - doesn't matter after the fact. He made the mistake. Furthermore, Bloodhound, we are not "occupying" their country. The country belongs to the Iraqi citizens. The U.S. led coalition which toppled Saddam's regime released the country back to the people. Saddam was the occupier - - the dictator. There are those followers of Saddam, and others who do not want to see the country freed, but that is their choice to oppose liberty. Why do foriegn civilian contractors keep going to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other such countries? We are not there for the terrorists, so we do not care if they like us or not. We are there to help the "people" reclaim, and rebuild their country so that it will become a stable government who can control their own criminal element, and not remain a distant base from which international criminals can train and operate. Bloodhound, you say that the Americans occupy their country, and ask "how would you like that?" Consider the entire question. If Hitler's German Army, or Japan had succeded in World War II, there might have been a dictator controlling American soil. If that were the case, then I would have prayed that a stronger nation invaded to remove them from power. Your question asssumes that we would not want someone to come in and take over our chosen government. That is a rediculous analogy. Only an oppressed nation of people truly need, and deserve their freedom to be paid for by blood. The American colonists fought against this kind of oppression in 1776, and many armies from many nations tried to take this land for their own. The winners were those who gained the freedom to govern themselves. The heros were those who paid for this with their lives. We continue to hold to those truths and ideals today, even in in the stead of the weak and oppressed people of other nations. This is my perspective. Sincerely, Michigan Man

Posted by: Michigan_Man at May 31, 2005 12:18 PM (n8NuY)

42 You mention Hitler's Germany.Listen my friend,the allies one the war full stop.No if or butts so stop trying to make assumptions my friend.The British people were dead against the Iraq war.Did you see our election results?Blair is a very unpopular leader.If there was half a decent leader for the opposition party he wouldn't of been re-elected.I can assure you that.You mention the offensive.terrorists,human rights etc?Then why don't your government sort out Mugabe or the problems in Sudan or Congo?Why your government doesn't?Simple,they will not benfit from it like Iraq(oil)Your country has nothing to gain from it.Yet the atrocities over there are just as bad as what Saddam did.The trouble with your country is it want to dominate the world.Every country has its day in being the global power.China are next.Look at history ie Romans,the British empire etc.No one stays up at the top forever.Trust me.Am i anti American?no

Posted by: bloodhound at June 06, 2005 12:11 PM (kIvTZ)

43 To bloodhound Not anti America, just realistic

Posted by: peace at June 14, 2005 09:34 AM (xt1Ip)

44 I have a few questions first Has anyone heard anything about Jeff Ake? I read a news paper today that was a month old and read an article about him, and i am originally from the area. In a sense i wish our government would negotiate with these people that kidnap and kill innocent people, but i guess its for our better interest that they didnt. After all, if they did how many U.S. citizens would be abducted, knowing that our country would cave in every time. I imagine i would think differently if one of my family or friends was abducted. But we do need to remember to keep them in our prayers. another question is "wasnt the U.S.people against getting involved in World War II, because it was not our war? and if they were, didnt they regret it after Pearl Harbor? and a comment to that is I remember reading about a son-in-law to Sadaam Hussein came to America and told authorities that Sadaam had actually had plans to take over all the Middle East if the U.S. hadnt stopped him after trying to occupy Kuwait, but the son-in-law ended up going back to Iraq and was killed with in a few weeks of arriving also according to that report that resulted in not finding any biological weapons, the report concluded that according to Sadaam Hussein "any country should be able to produce biological weapons if they have the technology." He also stated that he was going to produce the stuff once the U.N. restrictions were over now i believe that if we had left Sadaam alone he would have produced chemical agents based on the fact that he admitted he would once the restrictions were over and i do believe he is crazy enough to use them. So we couldnt just leave him alone. Sadaam was a thorn in the side of the U.S. and he was going to continue to be a thorn in the side of the U.S. It is possible that President George W. Bush had a personal vendetta against Saddam Hussein because of a assassination attempt against George Bush. Shoot, if someone tried to go after my dad and I could do something about it I would to. I dont believe its all about oil, i dont remember Vietnam having much oil, or South Korea. What about the tsunami aid, i dont recall them having an over abundance of oil either. Cuba found a bunch of oil off their coast, to my knowledge we havent exactly been buddy buddy to them what about all that oil in Alaska? I have an idea why dont we send a bunch of people to die in Iraq so we can have their oil, instead of just drilling oil in Alaska were there is an obscene amount that isnt touched because its in federal parks. To me being in Iraq based on oil just doesnt add up)Plus the money we have spent on the war, how many bilions is it.)How much oil would we have to buy at a cheaper price to break even. Assuming we could get it at a cheaper price. Our country since the turn of the last century has helped other countries in time of need. When others are starving our country feeds them. When people have no homes our country shelters them. When people are being killed because of tyrants our country fights for them (anyone remember Slobodan Milosevic.) When other countries asks for money our country provides it to them. Yet it seems that while while one country has its hand out asking for help, their other hand is a fist behind their back ready to slug us. To me the only ones that should be arguing whether our troops should be in Iraq are those that are in Iraq, which would be our troops and the Iraqi citizens. I wish our troops could go home but in my opinion they cant. Half the battle was won. the old government was overthrown, and the new government is forming. But the problem now is the group of people that used to have power dont want to give it up. As i learned in my government class, power, just like energy cant be created or destroyed it can only be transfered. The problem is for some reason Sadaams fallowers dont want to give up that power? With everything that has happened in Iraq and Afghanistan, i need to remind myself not to let hate build up because of the senseless acts of a few. Why should I hate all Muslims when it is a small faction of people who are doing the killing. To me it isnt any different than hating any race because of the negative acts of a few people in it. Every race has people that causes problems, and every nation has done things its not proud of. Maybe in a hundred years this war may be one of the best things this country has ever done or maybe it may turn out to be another Vietnam but the only thing that can determine it is the history it will leave behind.

Posted by: Dupe at July 16, 2005 02:10 PM (3265J)

45 on a lighter note the chick on the top left is hot

Posted by: Dupe at July 16, 2005 02:12 PM (3265J)

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An another American has been kidnapped in Iraq. Developing....

UPDATE 4/13: The name of the man is Jeffrey Ake. A video has been aired by al Jazeera. More information about the video here.

The State Department has an official policy of not releasing the names of civilians captured in Iraq. As was the case of Roy Hallums and Mohammed Monaf, we will publish the name of this victim as soon as that information is available.

We pray for the safe return of all the hostages still held in Iraq.

Reuters:

An American contractor has been kidnapped near Baghdad, a U.S. embassyspokesman says, the latest foreigner abducted in the lawless Iraqi capital.

The contractor, who was working on a reconstruction project, was kidnapped in the greater Baghdad area,embassy spokesman Bob Callaghan said on Monday.

"No group has claimed responsibility. We have contacted the Iraqi authorities to try and find him," he said.

Others: In the Bullpen, Jeff Quinton, Robert Spencer, ....

Posted by: Rusty at 04:24 PM | Comments (2) | Add Comment
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A Pakistani diplomat has been taken hostage in Iraq. The victim's name is Malik Mohammad Javed. Apparently, Mr. Javed is being held ransom for money.

See what happens when you start paying ransom? The majority of hostages being held in Iraq now are being held for money rather than as pawns used for political demands. WaPo:

A kidnapped employee of the Pakistani embassy in Iraq is safe and is probably being held for ransom, a Pakistani government spokesman said on Monday.

Malik Mohammad Javed, a Pakistani assistant at the embassy who does not have diplomatic status, went missing in Baghdad on Saturday.

A man telephoned the Pakistani embassy in Baghdad on Sunday claiming to represent a group called Omar bin Khattab and said it was holding the man.

Jilani said Pakistan was in touch with the Iraqi government and the Iraqi Islamic Party, which draws its support from Iraq's minority Sunnis, over the case.

"They have also offered, assured us, of their complete cooperation for the secure release of Malik Mohammad Javed," he said.

Jilani declined to say if the previously unknown group holding Malik had made any demands, or if Pakistan would consider paying for his release, but he said the motive appeared to be financial, not political.

Others: Chad at In the Bullpen

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