Puget Sound Homeland Security Industrial Complex

Newspeople Remain Silent – Missing A Chance To Ask Questions

Cartels vs Wall

Talk Of Border Walls As Cartel Moves 180 Kilograms Of Meth From Mexico To Canada by Rail

Opioid or Heroin? Meth or Amphetamine?

Bremerton Homeland Security Jobs Program

Puget Sound Coastal Patrol Boats

Possibly of interest:

Washington State Ferry Ride

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

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Photo at top of page:

Whidbey Island

2014-

Island county to purchase new patrol boat to help with Puget Sound security:

Federal grant money goes to “…gain a better grasp on cross border activity and to prevent illegal crossings.”

“Funding for the boat was issued through the Homeland Security Grant Program under Operation Stonegarden.”

Has there been any post 911 history of maritime “cross-border activity” on Whidbey Island?

Has the Island County Homeland Security-funded patrol boat been involved in any arrest or seizure related in any way to the US/Canada border?

Background: Whidbey Homeland Security Grant Money- Newspeople Remain Silent

Categories Heroin, Homeland Security is a scam, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Meth, Newspeople not asking questions, Olympic Peninsula Border Patrol, The Business of Keeping People informed

Cartels vs Wall

March 21, 2019 //

US Mail

March 21, 2019 The Post-Journal

No Single Action Will End County’s Fight With Addiction

“…the methamphetamine being produced is top-of-the-line product from Mexico, arriving in Jamestown through the U.S. Postal Service.”

Rail Shipment

US Troops at the border, El Chapo takedown, opioid lawsuits, REAL ID, Homeland Security grant money, strict post 911 security protocols and a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security fail to keep cartel from moving meth by rail into Canada:

Feb 27, 2019 Times Colonist

Police find meth smuggled into Canada through new Ford cars built in Mexico

“Ontario Provincial Police said they found 180 kilograms of meth during their investigation, which began when employees at four different Ford dealerships reported suspicious bags inside tires that were in the trunks of new Fusion cars.”

“Police said the cars were built at Ford’s assembly plant in Hermosillo, Mexico, before being put on northbound trains.”

Ports of Entry

Jan. 8, 2019 Arizona Republic

Meth, cocaine, heroin: Most gets smuggled through ports of entry. A wall won’t stop it.

Mar 19, 2019 The Charleston Gazette-Mail

George F. Will: Worse living through chemistry (Daily Mail Opinion)

“Every day 4,500 trucks pass, necessarily with usually minimal inspection, through three legal entry points along the U.S.-Mexico border. Any wall would be irrelevant to interrupting drug shipments.”

January 8, 2019 The Week

The DEA disagrees with Trump about how heroin is crossing the border

“…DEA wrote, adding that a “majority of the flow” happens at ports of entry. Those legal crossings would obviously still happen even if a wall spanned the entire border.”

How did 1.7 tons of meth for outbound shipment enter Long Beach California?

Newspeople Remain Silent – Missing A Chance To Ask Questions

Thousands Of Terrorists Stopped Last Year At The Border?

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

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Photo- Oak Harbor traffic patterns

Categories Heroin, Homeland Security is a scam, Meth

Working To Break A Cycle Of Homelessness & Drug Addiction

March 19, 2019 //

March 18, 2019 Q13 Fox News video:

Arlington’s approach to homeless crisis differs from Seattle – and officials say it’s working

“…officers and the community will step up to help those who are ready to turn their lives around, those who aren’t will be prosecuted if they commit crimes within the city. Even relatively minor offenses, such as shoplifting and car prowls, will be charged in Arlington, he said. The same is not true in Seattle, where misdemeanor theft is all but decriminalized for the city’s homeless population.”

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA

Recovery, rehab, treatment, & addiction are important parts of this story.

What part of the story is missing?

Has anyone ever seen the press question the US Dept. of Homeland Security/CBP on their role in keeping meth and heroin away from the Puget Sound area?

Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound meth or heroin?

Even one time?

More here:

Naval Air Facility El Centro

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA News tip/story idea

Related: Ongoing Breakdown of Society

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo- Fog clears at Hill Road

Categories Heroin, Meth, Olympic Peninsula Border Patrol, Ongoing Breakdown of Society

US Navy on Whidbey Island

March 17, 2019 //

I am indifferent to jet noise on Whidbey Island. I know it is a larger concern based on where people are situated on Whidbey or elsewhere in the region; Olympic National Park, San Juan Islands, B.C., Port Townsend, etc.

Some of the points made by Navy supporters don’t generate much in the way of good public relations:

The base has been here since WWII. Navy crews will not be able to operate safely without training operations conducted on Whidbey Island.

Most people are probably not asking for the Navy to leave. Concerns seem to be about adding more flights and jets.

Even if NAS Whidbey was shut down, training would continue at other locations. MCAS El Toro is one example of many bases that have been closed over the years. Training goes on.

The US has vast holdings in the form of bombing ranges, missile test ranges, federal lands appropriate for nuclear weapons testing, etc. War games and military training might be conducted in these areas without bothering anyone.

Some examples:

Yakima Training Center, WA

National Training Center, Fort Irwin

Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, 29 Palms

China Lake, Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division

Barry Goldwater Range Complex

“The range complex is the nation’s second largest military reservation and has been used by military pilots since September 1941.”

White Sands Missile Range

NEVADA TEST AND TRAINING RANGE

UTAH TEST & TRAINING RANGE

Naval Auxillary Landing Field San Clemente Island

Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range (CMAGR)

It’s The Sound of Freedom!

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms- The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

Many veterans claim to have served to protect American rights & freedoms.

How does this work?

Do the US Armed Forces function as some sort of giant civil rights organization?

Hey school teachers–

If The Troops fight for American rights and freedoms- why were black people still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory?

One of the nation’s largest, oldest and most respected veterans organizations tells us: Veterans, not politicians, ‘give us the right to vote,’ observers at Amherst Veterans Day ceremonies told

If veterans fought for our right to vote- how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?

Hometown Pride

Local paper in a military town-

About two years ago, hometown pride was running high when they posted:

“For the past couple of years, the Whidbey News-Times paid the insurance for the Veterans Day Parade, about $200, because it was a small way of saying thank you to the men and women who sacrificed so that we may have our liberties, including our Freedom of Speech.”

Were US troops sent to Vietnam so that Americans could be free to send letters to the editor?

Is there any case in which the US Armed Forces have been sent to distant lands on a mission to protect freedom of speech?

Is protecting freedom of speech even part of training scenarios?

How do The Troops defend The Constitution?

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

More here: How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?

Legal marijuana, concealed carry of handguns, semi automatic rifle sales, federal minimum drinking age, interracial marriage, gay marriage, voting rights, etc. None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.

As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.

If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.

More here:

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Jet Noise Made Them Free?

Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville

Liberty And Justice For All?

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, Newspeople not asking questions, School teachers not asking questions, Sound of Freedom, Veterans Day Propaganda

Industrial Hemp – Gateway Drug?

March 16, 2019 //

Feb. 14, 2019 Argus Leader

Gov. Kristi Noem: Industrial hemp ‘opening the door’ to legalized marijuana in South Dakota

Before the veto- South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem:

“She said she’s heard from social workers, addiction treatment counselors and families hurt by addiction that marijuana is a gateway drug — and that industrial hemp will open the door to marijuana distribution in South Dakota.”

March 11, 2019 The Seattle Times

Gov. Noem vetoes bill legalizing industrial hemp production

“…it would make law enforcement’s job more difficult and could be a first step to eventually legalizing recreational marijuana.”

“At least 41 states have enacted hemp growing and production programs, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.”

Meth

Federal cash for South Dakota after meth flows past federal agents staffing a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security, then on into local communities:

Nov. 1, 2018 Argus Leader

Federal government sends $1M to South Dakota to combat meth trafficking

Mar 4, 2019 KOTA TV

Governor Noem starts to tackle meth epidemic

March 1, 2019 Argus Leader

Noem: Making South Dakota an example to the nation

“It was my goal to listen and learn, but to also begin developing the expectation that South Dakota can, and will, be a leader in innovative policies that will serve as an example to other states and the federal government.”

“First, I met with Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar about adding flexibility to existing federal programs in South Dakota so we can combat our meth epidemic.”

Mar 1, 2019 Rapid City Journal

Governor addresses goals for her administration on statewide tour

“Noem said the state’s farmers and ranchers are still struggling in spite of weathering tough economic times fraught with low commodity prices and foreign tariffs on U.S. goods.”

“She said moving agriculture development representatives within the ag department to the state economic development department would give ag reps better access to economic development tools.”

“I also want our economic development team to know and have a passion for agriculture,” she said.

Days later- Governor Noem would veto a bill allowing South Dakota to produce Indsutrial Hemp.

“With the use of methamphetamine exploding among younger people, Noem said she will expand funding and resources to increase education, prevention, intervention and treatment options and hire four highway patrol officers to specialize in meth programs and two Department of Criminal Investigation officers to key on stopping the flow of the drug into the state.”

“Opioids are a big problem in South Dakota. I don’t want to distract from that, but overwhelmingly our problem is meth,” she said.

Governor Noem, if South Dakota is a nationwide leader in stamping out gateway drugs like marijuana and Industrial Hemp, why the meth epidemic in South Dakota? Meth is prohibited at both the federal and state levels of government.

More here:

What Do Conservatives Believe In?

Gov. Noem vetoes bill legalizing industrial hemp production

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories Just Be Honest, Marijuana, Meth, Sound of Freedom

What Do Conservatives Believe In?

March 12, 2019 //

Personal responsibility, limited government, free enterprise, and individual liberty?

Is the freedom talk just for federal holidays and overseas military operations?

Industrial Hemp

March 11, 2019 The Seattle Times

“…it would make law enforcement’s job more difficult and could be a first step to eventually legalizing recreational marijuana.”

“At least 41 states have enacted hemp growing and production programs, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.”

Mar 14, 2019 Rapid City Journal

OPINION: Hemp veto seems futile

“The only problem it presents is for South Dakota’s unique-in-the-nation ingestion laws, which make it a felony to have any amount of THC in your bloodstream.”

As Noem explained: “It would create uncertainty for prosecution under our ingestion statute because the source of THC is placed in doubt when industrial hemp products that contain small amounts of THC, such as cannabidiol or CBD, are legalized. As governor, I will not leave it to our courts to interpret how this bill impacts our prohibition on the active ingredient in marijuana, and I do not believe the Legislature intended to complicate enforcement of our ingestion statute in this way.”

Pledge of Allegiance

Making small children recite a loyalty oath indicating Liberty and Justice for all.

When they get a little older, they will see that they are pledging allegiance to a system where adults are divided into groups of first and second-class citizens.

Alcohol, marijuana, tobacco and firearms restrictions are in place for 18-20 year old adults. Is there any state where recreational marijuana laws remove prohibition for adults at age 18?

Undeclared/unwon wars that never end

Absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war- the people of South Dakota need services in the Middle East:

November 27, 2018 KNBN-TV Rapid City

Pierre National Guard unit to deploy to Middle East

“The unit first deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2013.”

Hey- smaller government conservatives:

Whatever happened to the formal congressional declaration of war?

This would be the time to hear from elected leaders and top generals on all the issues that have doomed the Department of Defense track record for winning wars since DOD was established in 1949.

Veterans Day Assemblies

Gather up the students and send them to a school event where they will “…learn first- hand that freedom is not free.”

“Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed Thursday, Sept. 1, 2016, as Veterans Day at the South Dakota State Fair, calling on all South Dakotans to honor those men and women who fought bravely for our freedoms.”

How about the freedom to legally grow Industrial Hemp?

With all this talk of freedom- would it be OK to grow a marijuana plant in the back yard?

Can I take my 20 year old girlfriend (a responsible adult) down to the bar to order up a few beers for freedom?

Should we check with the Joint Chiefs of Staff first?

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms- The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

Legal marijuana, concealed carry of handguns, federal minimum drinking age, interracial marriage, gay marriage, voting rights, etc. None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.

As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.

If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.

More here:

Liberty And Justice For All?

Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville

Why do we speak of the US Armed Forces as if they function as some sort of giant civil rights organization?

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Dept. of Defense Lies About Freedom

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

A symbol of freedom, living in an honest society, federal government credibility and newspeople, school teachers and veterans not asking questions.

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, Newspeople not asking questions, Sound of Freedom, Veterans Day Propaganda

Ongoing Breakdown of Society

March 7, 2019 //

The AIDS epidemic of the 1980s brought advances in medicine and public education about safe sex and avoiding high risk behaviors.

March 5, 2019 NBC News

HIV-positive man in U.K. is 2nd known adult worldwide to be cleared of the AIDS virus

The homelessness and drug addiction problems of today seem to roll on without solutions. Communities with their heart in the right place and lots of tax money to spend are not keeping up.

Seattle

November 3, 2018 The Seattle Times

Seattle homelessness spending tops $90 million

Autumn 2018 City Journal

Seattle Under Siege

“It wasn’t always this way. When I spoke with Eleanor Owen, one of the original cofounders of DESC, she explained that the organization’s mission has shifted over the years from helping the homeless to securing government contracts, maintaining a $112 million real-estate portfolio, and paying a staff of nearly 900.”

“It’s disgraceful,” she said. “When we started, we kept our costs low and helped people get back on their feet.”

“In Houston, local leaders have reduced homelessness by 60 percent through a combination of providing services and enforcing a zero-tolerance policy for street camping, panhandling, trespassing, and property crimes.”

Feb 28, 2019 KIRO Radio

Dori: Man arrested in Seattle arson case a homeless frequent offender

Like something out of a third world country:

Sept. 26, 2018 KIRO Radio

Woman mauled by dogs at RV camp begs Seattle City Council for help

Port Angeles

March 6, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Rayonier site fire accidental, authorities say

“Boston said homeless people frequently stay on the property and appear to have gravitated to the sheltered area where the fire occurred.”

Port Townsend

Good citizens lose access because of violators:

February 17, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Port of Port Townsend cites vandalism for restroom lockup

What other types of facilities might restrict daytime access to the public because of vandalism?

Schools, parks, banks, post offices, grocery stores, libraries, transit facilities, bus stops, shopping malls?

More here: Port Townsend Violators Cause Many To Be Locked Out

Whidbey Island

February 20, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Into ‘the pit:’ No one knows what to do with all of the garbage, needles in homeless encampment

Port Angeles Heroin and Methamphetamine

January 30, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Meth use alleged at site of 3 homicides; $3.5 million bail set

Background:

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA

Recovery, rehab, treatment, & addiction are important parts of this story.

What part of the story is missing?

Has anyone ever seen the press question the US Dept. of Homeland Security/CBP on their role in keeping heroin away from the Puget Sound area?

Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound meth or heroin?

Even one time?

More here:

Talk Of Border Walls As Cartel Moves 180 Kilograms Of Meth From Mexico To Canada by Rail

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA News tip/story idea

Love to see newspeople ask:

What does the US Dept. of Homeland Security do with the $40.6 billion they get every 12 months?

No inspection of rail shipments entering the US?

Just last month: How did 1.7 tons of meth for outbound shipment enter Long Beach California?

Newspeople Remain Silent – Missing A Chance To Ask Questions

A few towns obviously have people who work together to set priorities and make a positive impression for visitors:

Nice & Tidy

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

Early winter morning – Point Wilson, Washington

Categories Heroin, Just Be Honest, Meth, Newspeople not asking questions, Olympic Peninsula Border Patrol, Ongoing Breakdown of Society, The Business of Keeping People informed

Waiting For The Shopping To Be Over

March 4, 2019 //

Categories Happy Hours

Camping Season Has Returned At Fort Ebey

March 1, 2019 //

More here:

Two Bluff Trails

Categories Fort Ebey, Local Stuff, Whidbey Island

Talk Of Border Walls As Cartel Moves 180 Kilograms Of Meth From Mexico To Canada by Rail

March 1, 2019 //

Feb 27, 2019 Times Colonist

Police find meth smuggled into Canada through new Ford cars built in Mexico

“Police said the cars were built at Ford’s assembly plant in Hermosillo, Mexico, before being put on northbound trains.”

State-run media update Feb 1, 2019

HSI special agents:

“CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.”

Love to see newspeople ask:

How are terrorists and their weapons kept out by checking retail items after they show up at a mall in Atlanta?

Did the confiscated items make it through any port of entry?

How do you keep terrorists and their weapons out if there is no inspection of rail shipments entering the US?

State-run media update Mar 1, 2019

“Thank you @CBP for 16 years for securing our borders and ports of entry!”

Has securing our borders and ports of entry resulted in any shortage of cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or meth anywhere in the US?

Love to see newspeople schedule an interview with the US Dept. of Homeland Security & ask:

Are passports/enhanced/Real IDs effective in keeping cartel-sourced heroin and meth out of the US?

Standard driver’s licenses have not been accepted at the border since 2009.

Don’t worry-

The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:

Welcome Home Troops

Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan- working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.

Just last month: How did 1.7 tons of meth for outbound shipment enter Long Beach California?

Newspeople Remain Silent – Missing A Chance To Ask Questions

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo- Point Partridge Light

Categories Homeland Security is a scam, Just Be Honest, Meth, Newspeople not asking questions, The Business of Keeping People informed

South Dakota Army National Guard PFAS & Environmental Awards

February 28, 2019 //

Feb 26, 2019 KNBN-TV

South Dakota Army National Guard receives award for Environmental Security

“The SDARNG has saved over $15,000 in tipping fees by diverting solid waste from the landfill,” said Emily Beck, SDARNG environmental compliance and conservation manager.

It’s hard to tell who is making the award here. Is SDARNG presenting themselves with an award?

Elsewhere in South Dakota Air National Guard news:

Nov 4, 2018 Rapid City Journal

Firefighting foam contaminates millions of gallons of Sioux Falls water

“Today, 19 municipal wells sit dormant. Chemicals linked to cancer and other health maladies have contaminated 15 of those wells, including 10 with concentrations above what the Environmental Protection Agency deems safe. Foam use by the South Dakota Air National Guard and Sioux Falls Fire Department is the cause.”

Nov 4, 2018 Rapid City Journal

The toxic legacy of firefighting foam

“In Sioux Falls, 19 city wells have been shut down at Sioux Falls Regional Airport due to contamination from foam use by the South Dakota National Air Guard and Sioux Falls Fire Department.”

Nov. 9, 2018 Argus Leader

50 years later, Sioux Falls manages contaminated water from toxic firefighting foam

“The South Dakota Air National Guard and the Sioux Falls Fire Department both used the toxic firefighting foam for many years near the airport, which led to the contamination of the city’s drinking water.”

Dec 16, 2015 The Intercept

POISONING THE WELL
Toxic Firefighting Foam Has Contaminated U.S. Drinking Water

Possibly of interest:

National Guard Fighting Drugs At Home & Wars In Iraq & Afghanistan

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories National Guard

National Guard Fighting Drugs At Home & Wars In Iraq & Afghanistan

February 26, 2019 //

State-run media lets us know that a National Guard Counterdrug program has been in place in all 50 states since the mid 1990s.

The program started as an effort to eradicate marijuana grows.

At 4:06 we learn that the US Dept. of Homeland Security made a request that the National Guard fill capability gaps in key areas of the US:

When the news is created by people in uniform, there’s no need to deal with any awkward/real questions from the press. It looks like newspeople aren’t showing up to ask questions, so we’ll ask a few here. Our questions will appear in bold type.

More news from people in uniform:

Wyoming National Guard partners with police in drug fight

“…the National Guard Bureau operates five counterdrug schools that provide training in drug interdiction and counter-drug activities. These schools trained more than 41,400 law enforcement officers, community-based organization members, and military personnel in the fiscal year 2017.”

“The Guard members are limited to analyzing evidence collected by law enforcement agencies, but once warrants and evidence are secured, the analysts provide a valuable service with the collected data.”

“Additionally, Smith said the Guard’s UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters and crews may be called upon to support law enforcement from the air. When President Ronald Reagan started the program, military aircraft were often used to eradicate crops of marijuana.”

Feb. 25, 2019 The News Journal

Delaware National Guard has behind-the-scenes role in fight against drugs

“…11 full-time airmen and soldiers are embedded in various law enforcement agencies around the state, including the DEA, Customs and the Delaware State Police.”

February 22, 2019 WHYY

Delaware National Guard steps in to help fight drug trafficking, addiction

“A drunken driver steps out of his vehicle after being pulled over. He says he has a weapon, reaches in his pocket and pretends to pull out a gun.”

What does this scenario have to do with drug control policy or the National Guard?

We were told earlier that the National Guard role is limited to analyzing evidence and air support?

“In 2017, 345 people died of overdoses in Delaware. The health department expects last year’s number, which has not yet been finalized, to surpass that due to the increase in drugs laced with the potent synthetic drug fentanyl.”

Another state-run media update:

Prescription Drug Take Back:

0:28 “…collected more than 9,600 pounds of prescription medications…”

A huge success for the legal drug dealers- they sold more than 9,600 pounds of prescription medications to people who did not need them.

Have National Guard counterdrug efforts resulted in any shortage of cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, meth or fentanyl anywhere in the US?

What does the US Dept. of Homeland Security do with the $40.6 billion they get every 12 months?

Don’t worry-

The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:

Welcome Home Troops

Army National Guard trains Iraqi engineers

Wars In Iraq & Afghanistan:

The people of Iowa needed services in Iraq:

“He requested support from the 248th Aviation Support Battalion, Iowa Army National Guard, who had similar equipment.”

The people of Missouri needed services in Iraq:

“As the 248th ASB’s deployment was ending, the partnership passed onto the 935th Aviation Support Battalion, 35th Combat Aviation Brigade, Missouri Army National Guard.”

The people of Illinois needed services in Iraq:

“To me at least, it felt like it was something that has a lasting effect here,” said Illinois Army National Guard Staff Sgt. David Johnson, B. Company powertrain shop chief.

Feb 25th, 2019 Fox News

Father, son deployed to Afghanistan with Arizona Army National Guard

Any members of the press available to show up and ask why the people of Arizona need services in Afghanistan absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war?

Whatever happened to the formal congressional declaration of war?

This would be the time to hear from elected leaders and top generals on all the issues that have doomed the Department of Defense track record for winning wars since DOD was established in 1949.

Feb. 25, 2019 The Wall Street Journal

“The U.S. war in Afghanistan has been going on for so long that the newest recruits weren’t alive when it started”

More here: National Guard in Afghanistan

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo- On watch at Fort Ebey

Categories Armistice Day, Heroin, Homeland Security is a scam, Just Be Honest, Meth, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, The Business of Keeping People informed

A view from Sares Head

February 24, 2019 //

Looking towards the San Juan Islands from Sares Head.

Categories Anacortes

A view from Sares Head

February 24, 2019 //

Looking down over the Rosario Beach area. Rosario Head is to the left. Northwest Island in the middle, and Deception Island to the right.

Site details are here.

Categories Anacortes

Sharpe Park

February 23, 2019 //

Site details here.

Categories Anacortes

Camper

February 19, 2019 //

Camper was dumped off in a campground years ago. He has always been a little spooky. It’s nice to see him relax.

Don’t encourage them.

Photos with GF by Monica.

Categories Simple Living

Olympic Mountains

February 19, 2019 //

A winter afternoon at Fort Ebey.

Categories Fort Ebey, Local Stuff, Whidbey Island

Compost Day

February 18, 2019 //

Turned the pile and added leaves. Some good worm action going on.

Categories Compost, Simple Living

No Crowds Today

February 17, 2019 //

Out on the trails of Fort Ebey.

Categories Fort Ebey, Local Stuff, Whidbey Island

Port Townsend Violators Cause Many To Be Locked Out

February 17, 2019 //

Good citizens lose access because of violators:

February 17, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Port of Port Townsend cites vandalism for restroom lockup

In years past, I spent many hours in the Boat Haven area, walking through the boat yards and dock areas, taking a few photos and enjoying the maritime culture.

I have been to the restroom facility described in the article above many times and never had a problem. Looks like things have changed a great deal since.

There is a boat launch not far from the restroom. This is a boat launch that can really get busy at times. Looks like the folks using that part of the facility will no longer have a local restroom to use?

What other types of facilities might restrict daytime access to the public because of vandalism?

Schools, parks, banks, post offices, grocery stores, libraries, transit facilities, bus stops, shopping malls?

Possibly related:

August 17, 2018 Peninsula Daily News

The Boiler Room leadership hopes to resume services in Port Townsend

“Increased use by the homeless has led to declining use by its target clientele of young people.”

“She said that a growing homeless population is staying for extended periods of time at the coffeehouse and that this has changed the coffeehouse’s culture. That has led to a decline in use.”

Interesting comment section here:

February 20, 2019 The Seattle Times

Vote: What do you want to know about why people are homeless?

February 19, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Into ‘the pit:’ No one knows what to do with all of the garbage, needles in homeless encampment

Possibly related:

A few towns obviously have people who work together to set priorities and make a positive impression for visitors:

Nice & Tidy

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photos-

Happy Hours – Port Townsend

Categories Ongoing Breakdown of Society, Uncategorized

Records Keeping and Gun Violence

February 16, 2019 //

Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.

Love to see newspeople asking more questions here. Our questions will appear in bold type.

February 14, 2019 KING 5 News

Washington state’s backlog of gun records may go from bad to worse

“Currently, there are 550,000 gun purchase paper forms awaiting manual entry; covering handgun purchases made approximately within the last three years.”

“That means law enforcement officers who access the database can’t be sure it reflects whether or not an individual citizen has access to guns. Before making arrests or serving warrants, police and deputies often use the state database to look up whether the person they are looking for owns a firearm.”

November 7, 2018 KING 5 News

Half-million handgun records missing from Washington database

“The backlog means that pistols purchased at Washington gun stores as far back as three years ago have not been entered into the system.”

Legal guns come from various sources other than being purchased at WA gun stores.

Many people own guns that have been passed down in families or were purchased new in decades past.

People who own guns move here from out of state.

How would any of these firearms show up in a WA State database?

WA voters approved enhanced background checks back in 2014. Did Initiative 594 contribute to the database backlog? Has Initiative 594 reduced incidents of gun related violence anywhere in Washington State? Any reporting or updates on this?

When is the last time the Washington State Department of Licensing gun registration database was running without a backlog?

Back in 2014 – Initiative 594 – Attempting to comply:

In Seattle- gang members are not showing up to comply with strict background check protocols approved by voters in Nov of 2014.

Aug, 2015-

Police say much of the rise in gun violence in Seattle area due to gangs

Newspeople Remain Silent – Missing A Chance To Ask Questions

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Working Waterfront – Anacortes

Categories Gun Control, Newspeople not asking questions, The Business of Keeping People informed

Montana – Homeland Security Meth Racket Rolls On

February 15, 2019 //

Federal agents swing into action after meth moves past strict post 911 security protocols and federal agents staffing a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security, then, on into Montana:

February 14, 2019 KRTV News video:

Montana’s Drug Superhighway: How traffickers conceal carloads of drugs from police

“Billings serves as the host agency for HIDTA, but it’s a multi-jurisdictional task force composed of local officers from city, county and federal organizations such as the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Homeland Security.”

Federal cash for Montana after meth flows past federal agents staffing a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security, then on into local communities:

“The task force is federally funded through grants from the Office of National Drug Control Policy.”

Oct 25, 2018 Missoulian DOJ awards MHP $1 million for anti-meth operations in Montana

“The U.S. Department of Justice announced its award to MHP Thursday, from its Office of Community Oriented Policing. The grant will fund additional troopers, equipment and training specifically to combat incoming meth trafficking. Highway Patrol Chief Tom Butler said in the statement that Montana’s meth is largely sourced from Mexico.”

Homeland Security Vote of Confidence:

K9 screenings and vehicle inspections for customized switches and compartments are effective when conducted by law enforcement authorities in Montana.

Why don’t these same practices work at the border?

“Task force officers are also learning that vehicles with aftermarket switches and compartments are also being used to cross the border into Mexico and come back up to Montana, likely several times.”

Don’t worry-

The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:

Welcome Home Troops

Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan- working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.

Border Wall Credibility Update

Opioid or Heroin? Meth or Amphetamine?

Thousands Of Terrorists Stopped Last Year At The Border?

Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo- A symbol of the free press, federal government credibility and newspeople asking questions.

Categories Just Be Honest, Meth, Newspeople not asking questions, The Business of Keeping People informed

How did 1.7 tons of meth for outbound shipment enter Long Beach California?

February 11, 2019 //

State-run media update:

February 7, 2019 U.S. Customs and Border Protection

U.S. and Australian Authorities Intercept 1.7 Tons of Meth Bound to Australia from LA/Long Beach Seaport

When the news is created by federal employees, there’s no need to deal with any awkward/real questions from the press.

Unfortunately, it may be difficult to find stories from the US free press that ask questions about this big bust.

How did the 1.7 tons of meth enter the US?

Were US troops at the border, strict post 911 security protocols and a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security at all relevant in keeping 1.7 tons of meth out of Long Beach?

February 8, 2019 Australian Broadcasting Corp.

Police allege $1.29bn ‘tsunami of ice’ seizure shows Mexican cartels are targeting Australians

How were “powerful and violent” Mexican drug cartels able to move a “tsunami of ice” into Long Beach, California?

February 8, 2019 The Straits Times

Massive drug bust exposes cartel ties between Mexico and Australia

“The investigation appeared to reveal cooperation between Mexican cartels and Australian biker gangs, developing what the authorities say is a worrying new vector for drugs to arrive to Australia.”

Will the big Long Beach bust result in any shortage of cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, meth or fentanyl anywhere in the US?

January 31, 2019 ABC7 Chicago

Meth deaths skyrocket as new drug cartel fueled threat hits Chicago area streets

“DEA Chicago Special Agent in Charge Brian McKnight says his agents have seen a local shift from the homemade dirty street product to extremely pure meth imported by cartels from Mexico.”

Newspeople Remain Silent – Missing A Chance To Ask Questions

Leadership In The Classroom – Truth is Controversial

Leadership In The Classroom – Truth is Controversial

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

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South entrance- Port Townsend Ship Canal

Categories Just Be Honest, Meth, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, The Business of Keeping People informed

Between Storms

February 10, 2019 //

Categories Carl, Simple Living, Whidbey Island

Newspeople Remain Silent – Missing A Chance To Ask Questions

February 8, 2019 //

Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.

A few local stories where newspeople seem to refrain from asking questions are described here. Would these make a good news tip or story idea?

Another month with an R

Background: Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

How long has Oak Harbor been an unsafe location for recreational shellfish harvesting?

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA

Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound meth or heroin?

Even one time?

Newspeople remain silent.

Background: Port Angeles Heroin – Newspeople Remain Silent

Whidbey Island

2014-

Island county to purchase new patrol boat to help with Puget Sound security:

Federal grant money goes to “…gain a better grasp on cross border activity and to prevent illegal crossings.”

“Funding for the boat was issued through the Homeland Security Grant Program under Operation Stonegarden.”

Has there been any post 911 history of maritime “cross-border activity” on Whidbey Island?

Has the Island County Homeland Security-funded patrol boat been involved in any arrest or seizure related in any way to the US/Canada border?

Background: Whidbey Homeland Security Grant Money- Newspeople Remain Silent

JFK speaks about the role of the press in a free society:

More here:

Student journalists testify in favor of bill that would give student publications greater freedom

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

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Photo- The Seal Rock oyster

Categories Heroin, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Meth, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, The Business of Keeping People informed

Leadership In The Classroom – Truth is Controversial

February 5, 2019 //

Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.

Feb 2, 2019 Omaha World-Herald

“Speaking today makes me nervous for my job security,” said Lori Larson, the North Platte High School journalism teacher.

“I do not want to dumb down the curriculum just to make everything look great,” she said.

“Proponents of LB 206 argued that young journalists should be taught to speak truth to power, not that it’s OK to censor.”

Love to see more press freedom for hometown pride-oriented small town papers, large newspapers and TV news folks. Unfortunately, they seem to have moved away from asking questions.

Local stories where questions go unasked:

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

How long has Oak Harbor been an unsafe location for recreational shellfish harvesting?

If the state of the art sewage treatment plant went online in November- how was sewage being processed last summer or last year?

Feb 3, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Troopers use CPR, naloxone to save a life

A life and death situation. No time for newspeople to report later on what drug or drugs were involved here.

The press informs less on opioids – more on salads:

CBS News Jan 25, 2019

Whole Foods recalls products with spinach due to salmonella risk

Very specific info on what to avoid and how to stay safe.

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA

Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound heroin?

Even one time?

Newspeople remain silent.

Public School Lockers- teaching students to have a chip on their shoulder

Troopers use CPR, naloxone to save a life

JFK speaks about the role of the press in a free society:

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

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Early winter morning- Point Wilson, Washington

Categories Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, The Business of Keeping People informed

Press Informs Less On Opioids – More On Salads

February 4, 2019 //

Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.

Feb 3, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

A life and death situation. No time for newspeople to report later on what drug or drugs were involved here.

Jan 24th, 2019 WVXU Cincinnati

Health Officials Warn Of Overdose ‘Spike’ In Hamilton County

Sorry,

No time for newspeople to ask what sort of drugs are involved here.

Jan 20, 2019 EMS1.com

Seattle health officials urge safer drug use after 7 overdoses in one day

“Seven people reportedly overdosed in North Seattle on Thursday alone, and public-health officials warn it may indicate that stronger-than-usual drugs are in the area.”

Are the drugs described in the articles above, cartel products? Are they prescription meds? Meds requiring a prescription are highly regulated & controlled.

Love to see more in the way of newspeople asking questions to keep people informed on drug control policy and to educate the public towards avoiding the risks associated with drug abuse.

The Drug War is based on public policy.

What methods are working? What methods are failing?

Heroin

Let’s get away from the politician talk.

Heroin crisis: A situation involving illegal product moved from outside the US into local communities. The US Dept. of Homeland Security has jurisdiction at the border, border crossings & ports of entry.

With a budget of $40.6 billion- how is the US Dept. of Homeland Security doing at keeping heroin away from local communities?

Opioid crisis: Term favored by the press & politicians to describe the abuse of product which may be stolen from Grandma’s medicine cabinet- also a very serious issue.

Accurate reporting allows people to learn how to prevent future incidents.

Anytime there is a plane crash- a thorough investigation takes place. Lessons learned are used to prevent future accidents.

Was the aircraft fueled with opioids before it crashed? Was it running on heroin?

Recovery, rehab, treatment, & addiction are important parts of this story.

What part of the story is missing?

Has anyone ever seen the press question the US Dept. of Homeland Security/CBP on their role in keeping heroin and meth away from the Puget Sound area?

Opioid Epidemic

Senator Cantwell sets the tone. TV newspeople deliver a story to compliment the Senator’s programs.

Instead of asking public policy questions- the big effort here is to stage a takedown of a doctor who had already been run out of town. No info on how to keep your family safe. No questions asked about heroin or fentanyl. No questions asked about US Dept. of Homeland Security efforts to keep cartel products out of local communities.

Meth is a growing problem. Is the meth problem growing because of big companies or doctors overprescribing meds?

Questions that go unasked:

When additional restrictions are placed on prescription drugs- what will prevent heroin-trafficking cartels from moving more product into local communities?

More here:

Whole Foods recalls products with spinach due to salmonella risk

Salads

CBS News Jan 25, 2019

Very specific info on what to avoid and how to stay safe.

USA TODAY Dec. 17, 2018

Farm linked to romaine E. coli outbreak recalls red, green leaf lettuce, cauliflower

“The recall is for the three types of produce that were grown in particular fields and harvested between Nov. 27-30, the company said. None of the recalled products has tested positive for E. coli O157:H7.”

Opioid or Heroin? Meth or Amphetamine?