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From : Alive in Baghdad
VIDEO - Baghdad, Iraq it's well known that Iraq has one of the largest reserves of oil in the world, so it is quite ironic that the Iraqi people are constantly having problems obtaining various products produced from oil such as gasoline, propane, diesel, and kerosene. Furthermore, the prices of these products, when compared with the average income of an Iraqi citizen are barely affordable. The average income of an Iraqi citizens is between $100 and $300 per month. The price of one liter of gasoline is 450 Iraqi Dinar, or approximately $.30. While on the black market the price of one liter of gasoline is nearly 1500 Iraqi Dinar or $1. These prices are not stable and depend on the current conditions, whether there is an oil crisis or electricity shortage. The prices could jump between 2000 and 5000 Iraqi Dinar, or between $1.50 and $4 per one liter. Reaching most any destination in Baghdad could cost you half to three quarters of your gas tank due to the large number of checkpoints, walls, and convoys causing traffic jams across the city. Another side of the fuel crisis is the price of the diesel fuel that most of the neighborhood generators depend on. You can generate 5 amperes per month of electricity for approximately $150. However, 5 amperes are barely enough to power the fans, lights and some other simple household appliances. It is certainly not enough for turning on the water heater or air conditioner. The price is also dependent on the availability of diesel. One barrel of diesel that contains 200 liters costs approximately $200 and during a crisis or shortage, it could reach $400 and this is enough to fuel the neighborhood generators for only three days. The minster of Oil Hussein al- Shahristani has blamed most of the problems regarding oil production and refining on the security situation and the lack of electricity. He has also specified that a part of the problem with lack of oil products is due to the lack of oil refineries. It has been a common occurrence in Iraq that the trucks transporting these products such as propane, gasoline, or diesel are regularly attacked by different militias and insurgents, due to the belief that the trucks are working for the US military. As if these difficulties weren't enough, gas stations have become particularly dangerous places themselves. Many stations have been attacked by car bombs, mortars, or gun fire. Normally the distribution centers for propane tanks are in the gas station, where people must wait for up to three hours to get one tank. If they decide to buy from the black market it will cost approximately 3000 Iraqi Dinar $2.50, and this tank is enough for just. one week. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/is-there-a-fuel-crisis-in-baghdad/11868399/ 67526-11868399 Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:41:28 -0400 Is There a Fuel Crisis in Baghdad?
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
If you're in the Everglades you'll need special techniques to build shelter and fire. Bear Grylls shows us what to do. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/man-vs-wild-everglades-food-and-shelter/11865404/ 67526-11865404 Sat, 11 Oct 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Man vs. Wild: Everglades - Food and Shelter
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Ever want a job that let's you play with cool toys all day? From a rotating forklift to a wall of stunning inventions, Dr. Mike North gives a tour of his "office." Got cube envy yet? ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/prototype-this-tools-mike-north/11865403/ 67526-11865403 Sun, 12 Oct 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Prototype This: Tools - Mike North
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/12-year-old-boy-scouts-volunteer-to-give-women-breast-exams/11865402/ 67526-11865402 Sun, 12 Oct 2008 16:00:32 -0400 12-Year-Old Boy Scouts Volunteer To Give Women Breast Exams
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
If you thought the original TIV was big and bad, wait till you check out the new and improved TIV-2. Sean Casey shows us the ins and outs of the Storm Chaser's latest down and dirty vehicle. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/storm-chasers-the-new-and-improved-tiv-2/11848526/ 67526-11848526 Thu, 09 Oct 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Storm Chasers: The new and improved TIV-2
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Watch a profile of Chris McNamara and his passion - BASE jumping with a wingsuit. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/nature-of-power-chris-mcnamara/11848525/ 67526-11848525 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Nature of Power: Chris McNamara
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/extreme-weather-alert-meteorologists-predict-intensely-brisk-autumn/11822203/ 67526-11822203 Wed, 08 Oct 2008 15:32:07 -0400 Extreme Weather Alert: Meteorologists Predict Intensely Brisk Autumn
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/gunman-kills-15-potential-voters-in-crucial-swing-state/11811189/ 67526-11811189 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 10:42:09 -0400 Gunman Kills 15 Potential Voters In Crucial Swing State
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Nimitz-class aircraft carriers are the largest in the world. It takes over seven years to build just one. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-national-cathedral/11810834/ 67526-11810834 Mon, 06 Oct 2008 02:00:00 -0400 FYI: National Cathedral
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Not all burial sites as conveniently located, as Josh Bernstein can attest. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/into-the-unknown-long-road-to-kuelap/11810833/ 67526-11810833 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Into The Unknown: Long Road to Kuelap
From : Travel with Rick Steves
Rick shares notes with his Iranian-American filmmaking consultant about their recent trip to Iran to film a special for public television. We'll hear what "family values" means to the average Iranian, and how some of them circumnavigate the taboos of their fundamentalist religious government. It could be one of the least understood cultures in the world, and Westerners are often surprised by the welcome they find -- from the congested capital, Tehran, to the dusty and magnificent sites of ancient Persia. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/first-impressions-of-iran/11803999/ 67526-11803999 Sun, 05 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0400 First Impressions of Iran
From : Alive in Baghdad
VIDEO - Baghdad, Iraq - The ongoing fighting in Baghdad pushed the Iraqi and US forces to establish checkpoints all over the city to secure the roads and neighborhoods. Controlling the cars inside the city and preventing them from distributing weapons or bombs was the first aim of these checkpoints. There are four main types of checkpoints in Baghdad, the checkpoints made by US forces those of the Iraqi National Guard, and finally those established by the Iraqi Police or the Ministry of Interior. There are approximately five hundred checkpoints deployed around the perimeter as well as inside the city. Most of the checkpoints are directed by the Iraqi National Guard or Coalition forces. These checkpoints are getting attacked repeatedly by IEDs, car bombs, and sniper attacks. Many Iraqis were killed because of these attacks, for example, they may be driving into a checkpoint or getting killed by stray bullets fired after a car bomb attack. On the other hand, starting several years ago, militias began using what are known as fake checkpoints in order to kidnap or kill people. The fake checkpoints generated great fear among the Iraqi people agains Iraqi forces whether they were military forces or police. It become something very familiar within Iraqi society that if someone was kidnapped or disappeared at one of the fake checkpoints, the family should go and look in the morgue looking for that person. Today, although security appears to have returned to much of Baghdad, blast walls and checkpoints continue to choke the city streets. These measures helped re-establish security in the capital, but today many people question them and have begun pushing the Iraqi government to take down the walls that block much of the city. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/baghdad-security-plan-burdens-residents/11796031/ 67526-11796031 Mon, 06 Oct 2008 10:23:25 -0400 Baghdad Security Plan Burdens Residents
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
If you're lost in the African Savannah, you will need to follow a stream back to its source rather than down stream where it eventually will just disappear. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/man-vs-wild-african-savannah-upstream/11777243/ 67526-11777243 Fri, 03 Oct 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Man vs. Wild: African Savannah - Upstream
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Probe Navigator Justin Walker gives us a behind the scenes tour of the mobile survey vehicle that lays the information-tracking pods in front of some of the most destructive storms in Tornado Alley. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/storm-chasers-probe-vehicle-and-pod-tour/11759741/ 67526-11759741 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Storm Chasers: Probe Vehicle and Pod Tour
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
When the mountaintop blows there’s little time to waste, so HOW TO SURVIVE instructs you how to dodge falling debris, listen for a Lahar roar, steer clear of ash, and find shelter in order to survive! ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/how-to-survive-eruption/11759740/ 67526-11759740 Thu, 02 Oct 2008 02:00:00 -0400 How to Survive: Eruption
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/china-launches-first-willing-manned-mission-into-space/11740630/ 67526-11740630 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 10:53:24 -0400 China Launches First Willing Manned Mission Into Space
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Josh Bernstein visits a Chachapoyan Temple and discoveres that inside the Chachapoyans performed human sacrifices. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/into-the-unknown-grim-discovery/11736919/ 67526-11736919 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Into The Unknown: Grim Discovery
From : Alive in Baghdad
Video - Iraq, Baghdad/Adhamiya - The ongoing conflict in Baghdad has made a strong impact on the teachers and the education system in Iraq. A large number of teachers left their schools due to the threat of being killed or kidnapped by a gang to be ransomed. In other cases teachers and professors have been threatened or killed by militias or insurgent groups. Street blockades, checkpoints, curfews and the general lack of security affected the performance of teachers in Baghdad and elsewhere in Iraq. Teachers began to fear attending their school, due to the increasing risk of being killed. In 2007, Al-Mustansariya University was attacked by a car bomb that killed more than 65 students and 10 teachers. This explosion was one of many attacks that have targeted this university in particular since the conflict began. All of these attacks have resulted in convincing many students and teachers to stop attending this university. Teachers also face another very different type of problem. Although it is certainly not serious in the same way, the lack of equipment and adequate textbooks are another factor in the deterioration of Iraq's once strong education system. During the spring and summer the temperature in the classrooms can surpass 110 or 120 degrees. Unfortunately, many schools in Iraq are not outfitted with air conditioning systems inside the classroom. Even if students and teachers might be lucky to have an air conditioning unit, in many districts they're unlikely to have electricity. In 2007 the Iraqi Ministry of Education initated a new program to assist repairing and rehabilitating the classrooms and rebuilding schools in different areas of Baghdad. The Ministry has recognized that rehabilitation of Iraq's schools is integral to improving the education system. Unfortunately, the workers who came to repair some of these schools were attacked by different militias, and its believed they considered them to be working for the American forces. Some teachers such as Maani al-Yasseri have raised yet another issue that causes difficulty for the Iraqi educational system, the high number of students in a single classroom. This causes the teachers great difficulty in delivering lessons to the students, and providing enough materials for each student. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/iraqis-teach-against-the-odds/11719794/ 67526-11719794 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 03:15:42 -0400 Iraqis Teach Against The Odds
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
D.C. has no shortage of monuments, from the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial... but there's one that not everybody knows about - and it towers above the rest. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-national-cathedral/11717004/ 67526-11717004 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 FYI: National Cathedral
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/obama-runs-constructive-criticism-ad-against-mccain/11714397/ 67526-11714397 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:41:33 -0400 Obama Runs Constructive Criticism Ad Against McCain
From : Travel with Rick Steves
Berlin is asserting itself as one of the world's powerhouse cities, and one of Europe's more affordable destinations for newcomers. Rick chats with an American who calls Berlin home, and gets an update on the city's attractions including the intense re-construction projects revealing a re-invented German capital. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/berlin-city-guide/11709179/ 67526-11709179 Sun, 28 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0400 Berlin City Guide
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
In the case of a biological or chemical attack, quick thinking can keep you safe -- HOW TO SURVIVE advises moving cross wind out of the area, decontaminating, and minimizing contact with others in order in order to survive ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/how-to-survive-bio-terror/11684634/ 67526-11684634 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 How to Survive: Bio Terror
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Bear journeys through the African Savannah, surrounded by evidence of animal life. But soon the animals are right in front of him. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/man-vs-wild-african-savannah/11684632/ 67526-11684632 Fri, 26 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Man vs. Wild: African Savannah
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/yankees-building-new-vacation-stadium-in-the-hamptons/11669091/ 67526-11669091 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 10:39:55 -0400 Yankees Building New Vacation Stadium In The Hamptons
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Get a behind the scenes look at the vehicle that acts as the base of operations for the entire Storm Chasers team, the Doppler On Wheels, or DOW. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/storm-chasers-dow-vehicle-tour/11667047/ 67526-11667047 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Storm Chasers: DOW Vehicle Tour
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
The enormous sculptures took a total of 14 years to complete. Learn about the trials and tribulations during the construction. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-mount-rushmore/11647740/ 67526-11647740 Mon, 22 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 FYI: Mount Rushmore
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/mccains-economic-plan-for-nation-everyone-marry-a-beer-heiress/11643234/ 67526-11643234 Mon, 22 Sep 2008 21:14:27 -0400 McCains Economic Plan For Nation: 'Everyone Marry A Beer Heiress'
From : Travel with Rick Steves
Humorist and frequent traveler David Sedaris tells us how he's settled in as a 50-something ex-pat in Europe on the next Travel with Rick Steves. And he shares a few surprises about what he found in Japan - where he went to learn to quit smoking. David helps us tackle the gender of French nouns - sort of - and compares notes with Rick on the most irritating things about tourists in Paris, staying in hotels, and a dirty little secret about some flight attendants. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/david-sedaris-an-american-in-paris-and-tokyo/11641082/ 67526-11641082 Sun, 21 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0400 David Sedaris: An American in Paris and Tokyo
From : Alive in Baghdad
VIDEO - Iraq, Baghdad/Sadr City After the failure of many security plans proposed by the Iraqi government and US military strategists, a recent plan, hand-in-hand with the so-called "Surge," was designed. It was a desperate attempt by the US and Iraqi military forces to control the Sunni-Shia militia. At the suggestion of military leaders, the Iraqi and US governments decided to build walls to separate neighborhoods and to control militias and insurgents from entering or exiting any neighborhood without passing a checkpoint. The first wall was built in Adhamiya, in April 2007. Despite protests and opposition, United States military and Iraqi National Guard forces began to erect a wall surrounding the neighborhood of Adhamiya. The people living in the neighborhood engaged in several demonstrations against building the wall, and even Prime Minister Maliki, a Shi'a critical of the neighborhood, publicly protested the plan. Despite his intervention and public discontent, the wall was built and finished by late April 2007. These walls tend to be approximately 3 meters in height and made from concrete. In some areas the top of the wall is covered with concertina wire to prevent intruders from climbing over the wall. There are patrols set to guard the wall and they are present around the wall daily, and at all hours, to protract the wall from being attacked or bombed by insurgents. Another wall built at end of April 2007, but this time in Ameriya, this wall is approximately 10 kilometers in length and again 3 meters high. In September 2007 yet another wall was built in the Saidiya neighborhood. The wall surrounding that district was 23 kilometers, and by the end of 2007 there were over 50 different walls built around different neighborhoods across Baghdad. In May 2008 a wall was built in Sadr City after battles between the US military and the Mahdi Army. There are approximately two million citizens living inside the area now known as Sadr City, probably the largest single group impacted by one of Baghdad's walls. Previously they could come and go via nine major entrances. Many shops were force to close because of the wall, the shop owners found they could not complete there work anymore due to the wall sitting just in front of their shops. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/after-siege-wall-sadr-citys-new-oppression/11633438/ 67526-11633438 Mon, 22 Sep 2008 09:47:48 -0400 After Siege, Wall Sadr City's New Oppression
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Josh Bernstein describes what it's like to carry a mummified body ... and what it smells like. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/into-the-unknown-interviews-scent-of-a-mummy/11616453/ 67526-11616453 Sat, 20 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Into The Unknown: Interviews - Scent of a Mummy
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Mount Everest is the tallest mountain on Earth. People come from all around the world to scale it. But not all of them return. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-mount-everest/11616451/ 67526-11616451 Sat, 20 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 FYI: Mount Everest
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Big predators pose a big threat unless you know what to do under attack -- HOW TO SURVIVE advices making lots of noise, freezing when confronted, and playing defense in order to survive ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/how-to-survive-animal-attack/11599508/ 67526-11599508 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 How to Survive: Animal Attack
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
If you should have to get in some really rapid water to survive, Bear Grylls demonstrates the best techniques. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/man-vs-wild-ecuador-rapid-water/11599507/ 67526-11599507 Fri, 19 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Man vs. Wild: Ecuador - Rapid Water
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Big predators pose a big threat unless you know what to do under attack -- HOW TO SURVIVE advices making lots of noise, freezing when confronted, and playing defense in order to survive ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/how-to-survive-animal-attack/11579225/ 67526-11579225 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 How to Survive: Animal Attack
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/obama-promises-to-stop-americas-shitty-jobs-from-going-overseas/11573423/ 67526-11573423 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 16:00:50 -0400 Obama Promises To Stop Americas Shitty Jobs From Going Overseas
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
The world's most populous city needs full-time "people pushers" just to make people fit in the subway cars. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-most-populous-city/11560792/ 67526-11560792 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 FYI: Most Populous City
From : Travel with Rick Steves
Italians have always believed in eating locally and in season. Italian food expert Fred Plotkin joins us on this week's Travel with Rick Steves to help us travel with an informed palate to savor the variety of regional Italian cuisine specialties. We'll learn where to look for great Italian food on a budget, and some of the local traditions Italians have for what and when they eat and drink. Join us for a gastronomic pilgrimage with the author of "Italy for the Gourmet Traveler" on the next Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/chow-italia-fred-plotkins-gourmet-italy/11553112/ 67526-11553112 Sun, 14 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0400 Chow Italia: Fred Plotkin's Gourmet Italy
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/disney-lab-unveils-its-latest-line-of-genetically-engineered-child-stars/11544935/ 67526-11544935 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 16:01:00 -0400 Disney Lab Unveils Its Latest Line Of Genetically Engineered Child Stars
From : Alive in Baghdad
Video - Iraq, Baghdad/Adhamiya - Over the last five years violence, terrorism, and fundamentalism have a severe impact on the ability of Iraq's children to receive an adequate education. This week Alive in Baghdad's Isam Rasheed speaks with parents, teachers, and children about the issues facing the Iraqi education system.For many, simply the issue of travelling to and from school prevents them from attending their classes regularly. Roads and even schools are often closed for government military operations, or by insurgents or militias opposed to the idea of an unfettered education system. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/getting-to-school-in-iraq/11544490/ 67526-11544490 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 02:54:28 -0400 Getting to School in Iraq
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
With deadly storms on the rise, HOW TO SURVIVE keeps you in the know, advising what to do to get ready for a big storm, how and where to seek safety, and how to hunker until the danger passes. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/how-to-survive-storm-strike/11526108/ 67526-11526108 Thu, 11 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 How to Survive: Storm Strike
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Crossing rivers can be very dangerous. Here Bear Grylls attempts to build a Bamboo ladder to make it across. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/man-vs-wild-ecuador-bamboo-ladder/11526107/ 67526-11526107 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Man vs. Wild: Ecuador - Bamboo Ladder
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/economists-warn-anti-bush-merchandise-market-close-to-collapse/11497550/ 67526-11497550 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 15:50:49 -0400 Economists Warn Anti-Bush Merchandise Market Close To Collapse
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
The world's most dangerous predator doesn't have sharp teeth or fangs - it's no bigger than your thumb. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-mosquitos/11401101/ 67526-11401101 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 06:00:00 -0400 FYI: Mosquitos
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Travel to the frozen "Doomsday Vault", and learn why the future of the human race may one day depend on the seeds in this frigid fortress! ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/nextworld-seeds/11401094/ 67526-11401094 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0400 NextWorld: Seeds
From : Travel with Rick Steves
Lord Alderdice, one of the key political figures who helped resolve Northern Ireland's long-standing "troubles" between its Catholic and Protestant citizens, joins Rick as a special guest to discuss the tensions facing the United States and its allies. The Belfast native provides a look at the personal reasons fueling political conflict and provoking terrorist acts and shares his approach to overcoming terrorism and designing road maps for peace. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/lord-alderdice-road-maps-to-peace/11325788/ 67526-11325788 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0400 Lord Alderdice: Road Maps to Peace
From : Alive in Baghdad
Iraq, Baghdad/Sadr City since the last few years Sadr City was the center of many battles between the Mahdi Army and the US military. Many homes, shops, and other buildings were destroyed in the first battles there in 2005, the conflict took place between the US forces and the Mahdi Army after a statement was released by Muqtada Al-Sadr commanding his followers to fight the "occupation forces" in order to liberate Iraq from the US forces. Another conflict took place in the year 2006 in Najaf were the Iraqi National Guard was fighting the Mahdi Army's militias. The US forces assisted the Iraqi National Guard with this battle in Najaf, and this influenced many of Muqtada Al-Sadr's forces based in Sadr City to fight the US forces and the Iraqi National Guard. The battle moved from primarily in Najaf to Sadr City, and more than 100 people were killed in the battles in Najaf and Sadr City. At this time, Muqtada Al-Sadr reached an agreement with the Iraqi government to arrange a ceasefire between the Mahdi Army and the US and Iraqi forces in order to stop what many expected to be certainly a bloodbath. Moqtada released a statement in early 2007 commanding all the Mahdi Army fighters to cease fighting the Iraqi forces and consider them as an equal part of Iraq to those who are loyal to the Mahdi Army and Muqtada Al-Sadr. There were ongoing minor and sometimes major clashes and operations in Sadr City throughout 2007 and leading up to the Spring of 2008, when a major operation was begun in Sadr City, to eliminate the influence and weapons of suspected Mahdi Army militants. In May 2008 the Iraqi National Guard were finally able to enter Sadr City, pushing deep into the district and taking control of the area. Alive in Baghdad's newest correspondent Ali Le'abi was with them, and interviewed a number of residents about their experience of the confrontation with US and Iraqi forces. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/what-happened-in-sadr-city/11317720/ 67526-11317720 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 11:16:54 -0400 What Happened in Sadr City?
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/pre-game-coin-toss-makes-jacksonville-jaguars-realize-randomness-of-life/11311138/ 67526-11311138 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 17:08:09 -0400 Pre-Game Coin Toss Makes Jacksonville Jaguars Realize Randomness Of Life
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Bear Grylls is lost in Ecuador, and resorts to fishing Piranha in order to survive. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/man-vs-wild-ecuador-fishing/11299270/ 67526-11299270 Fri, 05 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Man vs. Wild: Ecuador - Fishing
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Whether you, or someone you’re with has been shot, stabbed, or are facing a life-threatening wound, HOW TO SURVIVE instructs you to lay down and be still, keep breathing, and control bleeding to stay alive! ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/how-to-survive-wounded/11262117/ 67526-11262117 Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:00:00 -0400 How to Survive: Wounded
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/being-a-detective-who-talks-to-ghosts-not-as-exciting-as-it-looks-on-tv/11212956/ 67526-11212956 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 16:05:35 -0400 Being A Detective Who Talks To Ghosts Not As Exciting As It Looks On TV
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Meteor attacks have ravaged the planet's surface before. Learn about these deadly objects. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-meteor-impacts/11203109/ 67526-11203109 Tue, 02 Sep 2008 06:00:00 -0400 FYI: Meteor Impacts
From : Travel with Rick Steves
If you like the people, tempo, and joy of living you find in Italy then you'll love Sicily. But for some Americans, the frenzied yet laid-back style of Italy's big southern island can be a bit overwhelming. So on this week's Travel with Rick Steves local tour guide Alfio di Mauro AHL-fee-oh dee MOW-ro) joins Rick to take listener calls and offer insider tips on getting the most out of a vacation to Sicily. And, for something completely different, German tour guide Christoph Dressler returns with an overview of the Black Forest region, where Germans are prescribed time off from work to soak in mineral spas and to "power hike" in the mountains. We're plunging head first into Sicily and the Black Forest on this week's Travel with Rick Steves. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/sicily-germanys-black-forest/11196197/ 67526-11196197 Sat, 23 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0400 Sicily & Germany's Black Forest
From : Alive in Baghdad
Iraq, Baghdad/Adhamiya Iraqi society is quite proud of its different types of architecture and design. Their buildings have evolved and taken different shapes over Iraq's history. In the time of the Babylonian civilization, the City of Babylon was famous for not just its decadence, but also the manner in which the houses and other buildings were constructed. During the era of the Abbasid Dynasty the Caliphs built many sites that are still standing until this moment. Buildings such as Al-Mustansariya university and several mosques like Al-Malwiyah in Samarra, were built by the Abbasids. Certainly some of Iraq's most famous recent architectural marvels are the bizarre monuments built under Saddam Hussein's regime, ending with the unfinished "Great Mosque" whose minarets are shaped like Iraqi Scud missiles. The designs of houses vary widely across Iraq. You will find many different styles, likely there are more architectural styles than ethnic groups! A simple survey will uncover everything from houses made of mud and scrap metal to the most modern home designs. Most houses now share a similar design that is close to common Western designs. There are of course some differences in the way the houses look, and they have a certain Middle-Eastern flair of course. One of the rare architectural designs is called Shanasheel, "the hanging silk." This style of house was first found in the 1800s and early twentieth century. People first popularized this style in the city of Basra. This design depends greatly on wood and colored glass. After it became popular in Basra the design began to be used first in Baghdad and then in most Arabic countries. The Shanasheel design has been especially popular because it helps the house to stay cool in the Summer, while keeping warm in the Winter. Many Iraqi artists began including the Shanasheel design in their artwork, creating a specifically Iraqi traditional style. They included it in paintings or graffiti on the walls around Baghdad. Through this practice the art traveled to Europe and to other places far from Iraq. Due to the age of most of the houses, they are particularly susceptible to damage from bombings and mortar attacks. Because of this, many of the homes are particularly dangerous to live in today, due to a high risk of collapse. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/shanasheel-iraqi-traditional-architecture/11187470/ 67526-11187470 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 11:01:29 -0400 Shanasheel, Iraqi Traditional Architecture
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Learn how one genetic scientist has become his own experiment, in the effort to make sense of the human genome. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/nextworld-our-genetic-future/11185345/ 67526-11185345 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0400 NextWorld: Our Genetic Future
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/old-grizzled-third-party-candidate-may-steal-support-from-mccain/11184857/ 67526-11184857 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 23:23:07 -0400 Old, Grizzled Third Party Candidate May Steal Support From McCain
From : Travel with Rick Steves
Two American travelers reveal the hidden sub-cultures in the Muslim World of the Middle East and North Africa. Looking behind the veil, our guests are an American Muslim who spent a year on her own getting acquainted with the region and a gay travel writer who was surprised by what he encountered in Afghanistan and Iraq. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/outsiders-in-the-muslim-world/11179128/ 67526-11179128 Sun, 31 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0400 Outsiders in the Muslim World
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
If your car goes careening into the water there are but a few ways to make it out alive and survive! ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/how-to-survive-submerged-car/11145907/ 67526-11145907 Thu, 28 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 How To Survive: Submerged Car
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Bear talks about his appreciation for nature, despite the hardships he endures. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/man-vs-wild-bears-views-on-nature/11145906/ 67526-11145906 Fri, 29 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Man vs. Wild: Bear's Views on Nature
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/portrayal-of-obama-as-elitist-hailed-as-step-forward-for-african-americans/11133277/ 67526-11133277 Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:55:39 -0400 Portrayal Of Obama As Elitist Hailed As Step Forward For African Americans
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
The future is now. With telepresence, the people at CISCO bring you the non-commute commute. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/nextworld-telepresence/11121345/ 67526-11121345 Mon, 25 Aug 2008 08:00:00 -0400 NextWorld: Telepresence
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
The longest suspension bridge in the world is as long as ten Empire State Buildings laid end to end. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-longest-bridge/11121343/ 67526-11121343 Tue, 26 Aug 2008 06:00:00 -0400 FYI: Longest Bridge
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/hurricane-bound-for-texas-slowed-by-large-land-mass-to-the-south/11109649/ 67526-11109649 Mon, 25 Aug 2008 20:49:39 -0400 Hurricane Bound For Texas Slowed By Large Land Mass To The South
From : Alive in Baghdad
Iraq Baghdad The gas and the fuel for cars has always been a problem for Iraqis inside Iraq, the irony that Iraq has one of the worlds largest reservoirs of oil is not lost on Iraqis.The problem started in the year 2003 after the invasion, when the majority of oil refineries stopped due to the lake of equipment and spare parts. Iraq was left having to import its cars, fuel, and oil products from Jordan. These shipments were frequently left often open to attacks from insurgents which slowed things down even further.Most Iraqis need fuel not only for their cars but also for their home generators that provide them with electricity. This dual consumption helped create the Fuel shortage all over Iraq. The Iraqi government was left standing by watching, only able to make false promises of fixing it.The price for fuel multiplied 500 times after the war began. The price of one gallon of benzene can range from $70 to $150, the financial burden of this is almost unimaginable for the average Iraqi. The cost of fuel, and the waiting periods between availability are not the only problem.Many attacks have hit gas stations in Iraq. The Iraqi National Guards organize the lines in the Gas Stations, the ING s arrive on a regular time to the Gas Stations in order to control the process of the Gas Distribution, and as we all know that the ING are targeted by many different militias, attacks were happing on some ING s were taking a shift on a Gas Station and the random gun firing accused deaths injuries and sometimes car were exploding, the biggest attack was happing ever was the one that targeted Abu Ja afar Al-Masnor Gas Station 17 Iraqis were killed 6 ING s were burned to death and 70 were injured, a bomb were exploding there that day and two snipers started to attack the ING s the ING s started to shot randomly and that accused the biggest number in deaths and injuries Some oil refineries returned to work again after the year 2006, but still did not solve the problem of Gas, one day you can see no one in the Gas line, next day you go and you find 200 cars waiting in the gas line in front of you , and this is the situation since 2003 the people started to store gas in there houses and that accused some accidents that happened and kills some people because of getting burned in their house. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/selling-fuel-in-baghdad/11105556/ 67526-11105556 Mon, 25 Aug 2008 03:08:50 -0400 Selling Fuel in Baghdad
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
In this Behind the Scenes interview, Bear shares his top tips for surviving in the wild. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/man-vs-wild-survival-tips/11088478/ 67526-11088478 Fri, 22 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Man vs. Wild: Survival Tips
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Josh Bernstein enters a world truly unknown to him: a place where modern people train to be gladiators. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/into-the-unknown-interviews-gladiator-school/11088477/ 67526-11088477 Sat, 23 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Into the Unknown: Interviews - Gladiator School
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Use caution on seemingly solid ice, because if you fall through, it’ll be difficult to get yourself out. HOW TO SURVIVE instructs you how best to avoid choking, to orient yourself for exit, how to kick pull and roll, and the best way to survive. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/how-to-survive-falling-through-ice/11071514/ 67526-11071514 Wed, 20 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 How To Survive: Falling Through Ice
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
The world's most active volcano produces enough lava to pave a twenty-mile, two lane road. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-kilahuea-volcano/11052885/ 67526-11052885 Wed, 20 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 FYI: Kilahuea Volcano
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/californians-gather-to-celebrate-annual-wildfire-tradition/11052397/ 67526-11052397 Wed, 20 Aug 2008 19:30:00 -0400 Californians Gather To Celebrate Annual Wildfire Tradition
From : Alive in Baghdad
Iraq, Samarra- the City of Samarra is in the governorate of Salah Al-Din, 135 kilometers north of Baghdad. The city of Samarra lies on the east side of Dejla River, the city occupies an important place in Islamic history, due to the shrines that have been in the city for centuries.The two important shrines in Samarra are the shrines of Imam Al-Hadi and Imam Al-Askary. Those two shrines are considered as two of the most important shrines for Sunni and Shi a Muslims, you can also see in the city the Malwiyyah which is one of most important historical figures in Iraq, the Malwiyyah is a part of the mosque that was bulled in the year 895 and it was built during the time of Imam Al-Ma amon, and the mosque is still standing today in Samarra.The two shrines in Samarra were destroyed by a bombing in the year 2006, this bombing exacerbated many of the problems between different militias, and lead to different battles between militias and between militias and the US military. The situation in the city of Samarra was at the worst in late 2006 and early 2007 the Mahdi army was trying to take control of the city, Al-Qaeda was trying to take control of the city as well, but without success. However, the destruction of the Imam Al-Askari Shrine helped Al-Qa eda succeed in their stated goal of civil war between Sunnis and Shi as, and has been considered the spark for sectarian battles everywhere in Iraq. A few weeks after the bombing, unidentified dead bodies started to show up in the streets of Baghdad and in other areas in Iraq. Some of those bodies were related to Sunni and some to Shi a people, some of those bodies were related even to former police officers. There were many rumors going around the blast that targeted the Shrine of Imam Askary, the most famous rumor was spread everywhere in the city of Samarra and elsewhere. This rumor said, There were Iraqi National Guards vehicles entering the Shrine of Imam Askary in hours before the blast. There is another rumor that says, Al-Qa eda bombed the shrine and kidnapped the workers and the security guards in there. These rumors and others lead to many doubts within Iraqi society, and encouraged many people to join different militias under the guise of defending their sect. The Iraqi government tried to move quickly to save the situation by releasing a statement declaring that Al-Qa eda was responsible for the destruction. Unfortunately this was not enough, many Sheikhs and Imams working in the mosques around Iraq were killed. Many students were kidnapped from their colleges, tortured, and found dead later. Until now, no one has definitively found the real reasons behind the blast of the Imam Al-Askary shrine, but what is well known, is that the blast moved the Iraqi security situation to the worst that it had been since 2003.Now many Iraqis are working on rebuilding the Shrine of Imam Al-Askary, in order to avoid any more sectarian conflicts. Also the Iraqi government is working on securing the road to Samarra and the places around the shrine to prevent any further attacks from happening, by installing checkpoints, security cameras, and deploying forces around the Shrine and other shrines all over Iraq. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/rebuilding-samarra/11039111/ 67526-11039111 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:57:17 -0400 Rebuilding Samarra
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Check out the next generation of scientists exploring Mars on Earth by simulating the red planet in the American desert. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/nextworld-mars/11036874/ 67526-11036874 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 NextWorld: Mars
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/latest-poll-reveals-430-new-demographics-that-will-decide-election/11034733/ 67526-11034733 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 23:04:34 -0400 Latest Poll Reveals 430 New Demographics That Will Decide Election
From : Travel with Rick Steves
Filled with a proud Imperial history, friendly formality, hundreds of hot springs, and some of Europe's spicier home cooking, Hungary is a cultural goulash. Rick explores options for getting beyond the busy capital of Budapest into the heart of Hungary's countryside. Tour guide Peter Polczman takes travelers' calls highlighting the scenic Danube Bend, Lake Balaton, and the proud winemaking town of Eger, famous for its strong "bull's blood" wine. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/hungary-beyond-budapest/11031391/ 67526-11031391 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0400 Hungary: Beyond Budapest
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Bear looks back at his time in Zambia, where his impromptu feast leads to an unfortunate time on a cliff face. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/man-vs-wild-zambia/11011224/ 67526-11011224 Sat, 16 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Man vs. Wild: Zambia
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
The launch of a space shuttle burst the eardrums of anybody closer than a mile. Learn how NASA muffles the sound. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-kennedy-space-center/10997216/ 67526-10997216 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 FYI: Kennedy Space Center
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/astronaut-suspects-nasa-using-him-to-test-spaces-effects-on-fat-people/10983311/ 67526-10983311 Wed, 13 Aug 2008 19:30:00 -0400 Astronaut Suspects NASA Using Him To Test Spaces Effects On Fat People
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Just because you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, it doesn't mean you have no way of helping yourself. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/how-to-survive-stranded/10983222/ 67526-10983222 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 How To Survive: Stranded
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Learn about NASA's trips to Jupiter to understand more about the gas giant's atmosphere. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-jupiter/10966518/ 67526-10966518 Mon, 11 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 FYI: Jupiter
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/chinese-officials-deadly-virus-sweeping-china-is-just-olympic-fever/10961341/ 67526-10961341 Mon, 11 Aug 2008 19:30:00 -0400 Chinese Officials: Deadly Virus Sweeping China Is Just Olympic Fever
From : Travel with Rick Steves
Caught in the cultural crosshairs of Europe, Bulgaria is emerging as one of Eastern Europe's bargains. Travelers to Bulgaris can expect Ancient Byzantine and Ottoman influences and experience Mummers and midwives keeping traditions dating back to the ancient Thracians and Romans times alive. Rick also takes a house call from the travel doctor, who offers preventive advice for the long plane ride overseas and visiting the third world. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves -- including episode descriptions, program archives and related details -- visit www.ricksteves.com. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/bulgaria-an-ounce-of-prevention/10960823/ 67526-10960823 Sun, 10 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0400 Bulgaria: An Ounce of Prevention
From : Alive in Baghdad
Iraq, Baghdad - The international media broadcast news of the creation of a new tribal force in Iraq, the Al-Sahwa, or Awakening Forces, with much fanfare. It has been repeatedly said that they are the newest, if not last best, hope to repair the security situation in Iraq generally, and Sunni areas particularly. However, one thing the international media has not paid much attention to is the age of the Fighters in the new Al-Sahwa Forces.Many towns around Al-Anbar and Baghdad Provinces as well as others have witnessed the creation of Al-Sahwa Councils. The aim of this force is to protect the people living in these areas and to force Al-Qaeda out of their areas by working side by side with American forces, and according to tribal traditions everyone from any tribe taking part in the council should participate in this force. Some interpretations of Islamic tradition consider individuals as young as 15 to be an adult. Sources have told Alive in Baghdad that they have witnessed children between the age of 12 and 17 taking part in the Al-Sahwa forces, particularly in Adhamiya and Taji. These children are not believed to have any military training prior to joining Al-Sahwa, but are now paid up to 300 US dollars per month to carry a gun and take shifts at checkpoints or on various patrols, depending on the area.In other areas like Najaf and Karbala where you can see a great existence of Al-Mahdi Army , you can also observe a high number of young age fighters, those fighters were trained by the hands of the Mahdi Army on using the Russian Rifle (AK-47), the age of them is between 13 and 18 years old, the Mahdi army named this forces Aosood Al-Hussain witch it means the lions of Hussain, the aim of this brigade is to protect some neighborhoods and some religious areasBoth of Mahdi Army and the Sahwa force considers those kids are heroes protecting their country and helping their families finicality, some families of those kids are thinking the same way, unfortunately they don t look to the risk that is surrounding them from the car bomb attacks of being killed by other militias, any teenage joining the Mahdi army receive a salary that is between 150$ and 300$ depending on their position or what do they work and the same amount for the Sahwa forcesAlive in Baghdad brings you some interviews with those kids, and the questions Is dose 300$ worth to work in a risky place instead of getting educated and going to school ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/iraqi-children-fight-on-all-sides/10954029/ 67526-10954029 Mon, 11 Aug 2008 01:51:36 -0400 Iraqi Children Fight on All Sides
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Bear outdoes himself while looking for food as he finds a nice big frozen Yak. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/man-vs-wild-behind-the-scenes-in-siberia-finding-a-yak/10938151/ 67526-10938151 Fri, 08 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 Man vs. Wild: Behind the Scenes in Siberia - Finding a Yak
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
Each year, thousands of icebergs are formed and coast south towards the Equator. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/fyi-icebergs/10921232/ 67526-10921232 Thu, 07 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 FYI: Icebergs
From : Onion News Network (Video)
]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/cosmopolitan-institute-completes-decades-long-study-on-how-to-please-your-man/10908833/ 67526-10908833 Wed, 06 Aug 2008 20:05:31 -0400 'Cosmopolitan' Institute Completes Decades-Long Study On How To Please Your Man
From : Discovery Channel Video Podcasts
A house fire can ruin your life in less than sixty seconds. Learn how to make sure it doesn't snuff you out, too. ]]> http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/how-to-survive-escaping-fire/10903678/ 67526-10903678 Tue, 05 Aug 2008 02:00:00 -0400 How To Survive: Escaping Fire