PRIME TIME READY (Al Jazeera hires former Marine spokesman, prepares for U.S. launch)

NY Post ^ | 8/21/05 | PETER LAURIA

[jimbo123]

Al-Jazeera, the Arab TV network that brings us exclusive footage of Osama bin Laden, is trying to pretty itself up for an anticipated 2006 U.S. debut.

The network, which is planning a global rollout for its English-language Al-Jazeera International, has hired Josh Rushing, former Marine Lt. and spokesman for Central Command during the Iraq war's early days.

While Rushing's exact role has yet to be announced, his appearance on the network is sure to lend it some credibility.

At the same time, A-JI is hoping to add TV icon Sir David Frost to its lineup.

The moves come as the network is talking to U.S. cable and satellite operators about deals to carry the station.

[Sprite518]

What is this Marine thinking??? He is in bed with the enemy! Al Jazeera is about as fair and balanced as Baghdad Bob.

[bobdsmith]

The color style of www.aljazeera.com quite similar to www.cnn.com layout. The left hand tab system appears identical.