IRAQI IDOL

The 101st Airborne Division sponsored a talent show for Iraqis in Mosul a few weeks ago. There were singers, poets, comedians, traditional Arabic dance groups and musicians.

The military is hailing it as a victory for democracy.

“During the old regime this never would have been possible,” said Maj. John Freeburg, assistant operations officer for the 101st.

The talent show was one of six that will be taped and shown on local channel seven, Ninevah television.

Each episode features 10 contestants or groups. The sixth show will be the final competition between the champions of the previous shows. The final show will be taped Sunday and aired at a later date.

All contestants were paid $60 by the 101st to participate.

“We’re going to show that everybody has a right to make something of themselves in the new Iraq,” Freeburg said.