How to Make Up News 101

Kirk Johnson is the latest New York Times reporter to concoct a negative story regarding Iraq ... out of pretty much nothing. The fact that "Fighting Is the Only Option, Americans Say" receives a headline (possibly a spot on the front page (that remains to be seen)) reflects on how desperate the Times is to put forth its agenda and not report the news. In this scintillating article, we learn about a gas worker from Denver and a financial advisor from Colorado (thus, "Americans Say") who are lukewarm about the progress that the coalition has made in Iraq. "I still don't see any good coming from this," the financial advisor says. "I'm saddened and angered." Ah, yes, the ole' quote five people who agree with you and you have a 750-word story.Geez, there's about to be an election in an country that's been under the tyranny of Saddam Hussein for two decades--you'd think the Times could come up with some actual news. Did the Times forget that the last Iraqi ballot looked like this? There's no reason why one blogger, Chrenkoff, can come up with so much fascinating news about Iraq, and the Times gives us this kind of offal. Are they short on employees down at forty-third street?Speaking of which, Chrenkoff has plenty of interesting stuff in his latest installment of "Good news from Iraq." Among the highlights are:--83 percent of Iraqis eagerly await an election and don't want it postponed.--Elections might be held over an extended period of time to counteract terrorists who wish to disrupt the democratic process.--Canada, Japan, and Germany are all playing key roles in the election.--FM radio is also coming to Iraq.--There's plenty more regarding the economy, reconstruction, humanitarian aid, and security. Read it all here.