Jackson
Added: 23:03 2nd.Dec.2004

Hey Mike, when in Feb. are you planning to visit? I am currently in Iraq (civilian contractor) and I was planning to visit in January. But I may need to postpone until February for several reasons; one being the Iraqi elections (Jan 30). That's ironic considering the election situation in the Ukraine.

Brett, maybe you could give us a real, honest idea of what is going on in Ukraine right now. Knowing how the media completely distorts what is going on here in Iraq, I can only guess they do the same throughout the world. My experience here in Iraq and what I tell people back home is NEVER believe stories from the media; they all have their own spin to promote their agenda.

I actually have delayed writing the several women that I am interested in because of the situation in Ukraine.

Mike, let me know your trip plans. Maybe I can be your wingman, or better yet, as Tom Cruise said in Top Gun, "...BS, you can be mine." lol.
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A commentary by: Brett Ousley
Added: 4:37 4th.Dec.2004

Revolution in Kiev - American View

I have been living in Ukraine for 3 years and I have never been so proud of the Ukrainian people and so would Jefferson and the other founding fathers.

The main street, Krescahtik, is less than one mile in length and is where everything is happening. The street is blocked by a large, lightly barricaded tent city.

This is a well organized and safe and peaceful event. On Independence square there is a large stage set up with live rock and folk bands to keep the crowds entertained in the cold wet snow. Large TV screens, such as the ones at stadiums, are set up so that everyone can see the musicians and speeches.

The atmosphere is one of celebration and joy. It is not like a revolution or protest but more like a concert. The people know they are right. There is a mood of calm and peace. They just want an honest government, the rule of law, and a future for themselves, their children, and the country that they are all proud of.

I hope there is not any serious violence and I absolutely do not believe there will be any.

If you have any concerns about your future trip here or you have concerns for your friends you can be at ease. My apartment is at Independence square and I am right in the middle of it but if you walk one block away you will think nothing is happening.

Kiev is a large city of 2,500,000 people and is quite vast. It is hard to believe that everything is happening within a one mile area. If you were here and you avoided the Kreschatik area you would not know anything was happening.

I have never been so proud of my new adopted home and I have never been so proud of the kind and hopeful Ukrainian people that I love.

Brett Ousley
Owner-Manager

A commentary by: Ryan
Added: 9:14 4th.Dec.2004

That's the best news I've heard come out of Ukraine all week!
The news media here in the states, makes it sound like war could break out at any time.

Also I have been reading about Ukraine people standing in long lines to withdraw money, and that the banks have imposed limits on how much they can withdraw or convert into Euros, or Dollars. Is this taking place?

A commentary by: Brett Ousley - OwnerAdded: 14:15 4th.Dec.2004

With change of government there is always a feeling of insecurity.

The banks have restricted ATM (Teller Machine) withdrawals to 1,500 Hrivnas per day. That is around $300.00. That is plenty for one day.

They have also limited daily bank withdrawals to $1,000.00.

I have not seen any lines.

I think everything is great. In fact people are VERY HAPPY and the mood is joyous. It is a great time for Ukraine and a wonderful event to experience!

Brett Ousley
Owner Kiev Connections