Local info:
A few thoughts:
Not advocating socialism here.
Not describing the people who do time in uniform here.
Just taking a look at how the US Armed Forces are funded and the attitudes that go with that.
I am thinking that when the nation started out, the military at the time was somewhat like a volunteer fire dept. They were big enough to take care of their own neighborhood and maybe help out the next town over.
No money needed to be raised to send troops to Afghanistan or to support NATO operations.
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015 ISSUE The Atlantic
“T. X. Hammes, a retired Marine Corps colonel who has a doctorate in modern history from Oxford, told me that instead of applying critical judgment to military programs, or even regarding national defense as any kind of sacred duty, politicians have come to view it simply as a teat.”
Always a big issue on Whidbey Island
July 16, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Letter: AG’s lawsuit against Navy is a political spectacle
“We cannot imagine a more worthy cause than supporting the mission of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, the largest employer within three counties. NAS Whidbey Island provides over 9,000 military and civilian jobs with a total economic activity generated in this area equalling nearly $1.04 billion. Jets truly do equal jobs.”
Christine Cribb Executive Director Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce.
The cash required to bring in these jobs and economic activity comes out of the pockets of taxpayers. It’s not based on any sort of voluntary exchange or honest demand for these services.
If small towns all across America had military jobs programs- would they question undeclared/unwon wars that never end?
More here:
Jobs Programs For Your Freedoms Update:
Free Entrance Days in the National Parks
This sounds like an idea from a capitalist society. Maybe a fast food place picks a certain day to offer free fries, etc. It’s been done before.
National Parks lands are paid for the same way as the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Why no free days for undeclared/unwon wars that never end?
People will say that our system is based on capitalism and that is how a great deal of money is raised to fund DOD.
Capitalism:
If Amazon needs truck drivers to move product between warehouses and distribution centers, they contract with people and companies to get that done, all the way down into your neighborhood. Amazon doesn’t have the federal government force people to kick in tax money to pay for their trucks. If people don’t like Amazon, they are free to opt out on being a customer.
A Las Vegas casino needs a security team. The casino contracts with people and companies to set up an environment where their customers feel safe and comfortable to come and spend money. If you don’t like gambling, you are free to opt out on visiting any casino. The casino is not using the federal government to force you to pay for their operations.
May 22, 2020 The Future of Freedom Foundation
How About Permanently Closing Public Schools?
by Jacob G. Hornberger
No longer somewhat like a volunteer fire dept.
U.S. service members are now stationed in 170+ countries overseas.
NATO was created after WWII to contain Soviet aggression. The cold war ended, but NATO remained in place.
Did the advantage of NATO allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?
Has NATO ever participated in a war declared by the US?
Why does the Dept. of Defense have such a poor track record for winning wars?
Why do we hear constant lies about freedom related to US military operations in distant lands?
Freedom from lies about freedom?
May 26th, 2020 Congressman Derek Kilmer
Congressman Kilmer tells us that wars are waged to defend our freedom.
Congressman Kilmer,
While the troops were deployed, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.
Can you help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here?
December 21st 2019 KOMO News
Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide
“Signed into law by President Donald Trump Friday as part of the new $1.4 trillion spending bill, a new measure prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21.”
Congressman Derek Kilmer:
May 26, 2019
Wars are for freedom and democracy.
Congressman Kilmer,
If wars are fought for democracy-how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
Congressman Kilmer,
If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms, what becomes of those freedoms when the US leaves Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc., without a victory?
1967
Did the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to safeguard American freedoms?
Was it the Viet Cong that set up laws in 16 US states to prohibit interracial marriage?
Legal marijuana, concealed carry of handguns, semi automatic rifle sales, federal minimum drinking age, sports betting, voting rights, bump stock ban, interracial marriage, gay marriage, tobacco sales, open container laws, 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.
Just Be Honest.
Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.
A Dept. of Defense that was nowhere to be found on 911.
We haven’t won a war since.
A Dept. of Defense with a truly poor track record for winning wars since DOD was established way back in 1949.
The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.
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.
Nov 14, 2019 Stars and Stripes
Post-9/11 Wars Have Cost American Taxpayers $6.4 trillion, Study Finds
More here:
Unsustainable Military Spending
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Why Do Americans Celebrate Pretend Freedom and Independence on July 4th?
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
Right To Vote Linked To Military Operations/US Troops in Distant Lands?
Soviet-Style Militarized Pageantry Update
DOD Symbolism vs. Track Record
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
A symbol of a Dept. of Defense with a truly poor track record for winning wars since DOD was established way back in 1949 and the lies about freedom that are used to promote it.
Non violent protest please.
August 7, 2019 Jacob G. Hornberger
Welfare-Warfare State “Freedom” and “Patriotism”
More here:
Flag Idolatry Means Never Having to Ask Questions
Why Do Americans Celebrate Pretend Freedom and Independence on July 4th?
A Critical Time To Trust The Government
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Way before COVID-19:
Halloween 2019
In the news:
Gallipolis, Ohio
Local authorities dictate a one hour window for trick-or-treat time 2019. For some reason, Halloween will be observed exactly one week in advance of October 31st.
Your family will start at 5:30 and be done for the year at 6:30 p.m.
“The Gallipolis Police Department recently announced times for Trick-or-Treat set for the Gallipolis.”
“The annual event will be from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 24. All drivers are reminded to be cautious and drive slowly throughout the community.”
This is not an event held over at the mall, town square or dentist’s office:
Much of the article above includes detailed safety tips such as dressing the kids up in reflective gear so they look like a county road maintenance crew. It’s clear that most of the WWII generation is gone now.
For more about safety, please visit our safety tips page:
More here:
Stay in your homes and wait for further instructions.
Whidbey Island
May 29, 2020 Whidbey News-Times
Conflicting mask proclamations in Langley clarified
“Fortunately, the mayor is giving special permission to cast off those facial binds while eating.”
Pizza delivery, marijuana and booze sales roll on as government agencies phase out access and services.
Local press responds with reduced coverage and less in the way of asking questions:
Concealed Carry Processing Suspended
Over in Spokane, a picnic at a park:
“The city of Spokane Valley sent the organizer of a picnic a letter telling her not to have the picnic. The city cited King Inslee’s orders over his realm as the reason we can’t picnic. Come join us at Valley Mission Park in Spokane Valley 5/30/20 11-2.”
Freedom and Independence from a powerful, central government?
Dec 17, 2019 The Atlantic
The Lessons of the Afghanistan Papers
Undeclared/unwon wars that never end.
Nov 14, 2019 Stars and Stripes
Post-9/11 Wars Have Cost American Taxpayers $6.4 trillion, Study Finds
More here:
Unsustainable Military Spending
Billions of dollars spent every 12 months on a US Dept. of Homeland Security that fails to keep cartels from moving product into Hometown, USA.
March 2, 2020 Auburn Examiner
DEA Announces Launch of Methamphetamine Initiative
Welcome Home Troops
Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan-working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.
Don’t worry-The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:
More here:
Port Angeles/Blaine Drug War Scam – Zero Questions From The Press
Freedom from lies about freedom?
May 26th, 2020 Congressman Derek Kilmer
Congressman Kilmer tells us that wars are waged to defend our freedom.
Congressman Kilmer,
While the troops were deployed, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.
Can you help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here?
December 21st 2019 KOMO News
Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide
“Signed into law by President Donald Trump Friday as part of the new $1.4 trillion spending bill, a new measure prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21.”
Congressman Derek Kilmer:
May 26, 2019
Wars are for freedom and democracy.
Congressman Kilmer,
If wars are fought for democracy-how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
Congressman Kilmer,
If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms, what becomes of those freedoms when the US leaves Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc., without a victory?
1967
Did the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to safeguard American freedoms?
Was it the Viet Cong that set up laws in 16 US states to prohibit interracial marriage?
More here:
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
Right To Vote Linked To Military Operations/US Troops in Distant Lands?
Soviet-Style Militarized Pageantry Update
DOD Symbolism vs. Track Record
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Some controversy related to this one, because the brewery was bought out by the big guys.
This one is pretty common to find on tap at bars and restaurants.
I order it, because I know I like it, & these days, I’d like to do less experimenting.
Related:
Along for the afternoon: Classic Deep Cuts
Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.
Are newspeople forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security funding and performance?
The press release style of news reporting means that a statement is prepared by whatever agency was involved in the latest bust. Newspeople post this statement without asking any questions.
Our questions appear in bold type.
Port Angeles
Is Port Angeles CBP staffing and infrastructure at all relevant in keeping heroin, cocaine and meth from entering Port Angeles?
Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound cocaine, meth or heroin?
Newspeople remain silent.
May 27, 2020 Peninsula Daily News
Bail set at $100,000 for Forks man
“Bail of $100,000 was set Tuesday for a Forks man who allegedly tried to swallow a bag of heroin that could have killed him while he was being arrested outside Walmart east of downtown Port Angeles.”
“King said that inside the vehicle, detectives found 47.4 grams of heroin, 4 grams of cocaine, 1.2 grams of methamphetamine, three sets of digital scales, $3,000 in $20 and $100 bills in Harris’ purse, a loaded 9 mm semi-automatic handgun in her purse, unused plastic baggies, and “crib notes” that appeared to list drug sales.”
When will a $51.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security be able to keep heroin, cocaine and meth from entering Port Angeles?
Is General Milley confident that CBP is able to keep cartel product out of US communities?
Any word on General Milley’s pledge to clobber the cartels?
Will there be less need for an Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team (OPNET) after General Milley’s plan prevents cartels form moving product into the US?
Are fraudulent overtime claims still the norm at Port Angeles?
Border Patrol whistleblower pays price for refusing overtime pay
More here:
Rare & Mysterious Port Angeles Border Patrol Arrests
Near Blaine – Two incidents in May – A total of $5.5 million worth of cocaine enters Washington State – The press responds with zero questions:
Second incident
May 27, 2020 Bellingham Herald
$2.5 million in cocaine found in commercial truck crossing into Canada near Blaine
“The Canadian Border Services Agency announced that it seized 20 kilograms of suspected cocaine found in a commercial truck attempting to cross the border from the U.S. at the Pacific Highway port of entry Commercial operation earlier this month near Blaine.”
“It is the second significant drug bust at the Blaine border crossing this month.”
“On May 9, an anonymous tip led U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Pacific Highway Truck Crossing to find an estimated $3 million in cocaine in a commercial truck heading to Canada. Officers believe the driver of the truck is connected to a large international drug trafficking organization”
Any word on how the cocaine made it into WA before the attempted transport into Canada?
What about General Milley’s pledge to clobber the cartels?
When will a $51.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security be able to keep cocaine out of WA?
Welcome Home Troops
Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan-working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.
Don’t worry-The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:
First incident
May 14, 2020 KIRO 7 News
$3 million worth of cocaine seized at US-Canadian border
“CBP officials said they referred a tractor-trailer driven by a Canadian citizen for additional examination during an outbound inspection.”
May 14, 2020 Washington Examiner
Man nabbed smuggling $3M worth of cocaine into Canada from the US
“Customs officers stopped a blue 2000 Freightliner with British Columbia tags towing a trailer with Oklahoma plates as it attempted to pass through outbound inspection lanes May 9. The officers found five handbags in the back of the trailer that contained 132 pounds of cocaine, worth $3 million in street value.”
Any word on how the $3 million worth of cocaine got past General Milley’s DOD, a $51.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security, then on into WA?
Anytime there is a plane crash, a loss at sea, or an industrial accident, a thorough investigation takes place. Lessons learned are used to prevent future accidents.
Why no similar effort in the drug war?
Newspeople remain silent.
Related:
Cartel responds to General Milley by moving more product into the US
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
A symbol of newspeople repeatedly posting press releases instead of asking any questions.
WA lost hundreds of millions of dollars to scammers
May 24, 2020 The Seattle Times
“By the time the fraud was recognized, scammers had made off with “hundreds of millions of dollars,” ESD Commissioner Suzi LeVine acknowledged Thursday.”
“All of that happened despite a $44 million software upgrade at ESD that was supposed to help detect such fraud.”
Every vote counts?
March 26, 2020 Whitman County Gazette
“I-976 was supposed to go into effect Dec. 5, but has been held up by the city of Seattle and King County officials who have filed suit to prevent its implementation.”
Trust in law enforcement
May 26, 2020 reason
Minnesota Man Dies After Video Shows Cop Pressing Knee to His Neck for Nearly 8 Minutes
“…pressing his knee into the side of Floyd’s neck while he’s on the ground and handcuffed.”
More flags, military jet flyovers, and an increased use of the word hero will make it all good.
Whidbey waters and sewage treatment plant outfalls
I will purchase a subscription to any Puget Sound area newspaper working to inform us on Whidbey water quality impacted by sewage treatment plant outfalls.
One or more sewage treatment plants are sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?
Reporting on this topic appears to be completely off limits to the press.
Several Island County beaches are now closed for recreational shellfish harvest because of sewage treatment outfall.
Sewage treatment outfall. Not stormwater.
This appears to be a routine/ongoing situation.
View the Washington State Department of Health beach list here.
More here:
Whidbey Signs of Water Quality
A good time to safeguard trust in the press too.
1:25 News crew busted for lecturing about masks while not wearing them:
0:34
I feel like a man on the moon in 1969 was a proud American moment.
Since that time, both major parties have taken turns in power and have squandered credibility that would help in the current situation.
We were told we needed to send troops to Vietnam to stay safe.
Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, etc.
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
A symbol of credibility at all levels of government.
A trip to the state park might be a chance to leave the pressures of the world behind for an hour or two.
Preemptive warning notices will snap your mind back to reality before you even start your visit at the park.
As I have posted earlier, the parks are not new to me. I have been visiting Washington State Parks in the Puget Sound area since the 70s. Today’s parks are much more about a culture of warnings and enforcement than they were in the old days. Driving over to the local state park these days is like asking permission to enter a military base. Stop and show your parking pass before you arrive at the parking area. Listen to a reminder to display your parking pass so that you will not get a ticket. Am I on a third grade field trip?
This was true prior to the current news Re: COVID-19.
Let’s get out on the trail:
A park bench by the lake:
Prior to COVID-19:
Wondering if something like 89 cents of each dollar collected for daytime parking fees goes directly towards funding of the manufacturing, installation and maintenance of enforcement related warning signs, kiosks, pay boxes, fluorescent placards, and the manufacturing and distribution of enforcement related literature, blank forms and documentation materials.
Enjoy Washington’s Natural Heritage
Washington State Parks
Have Washington State Parks been taken over by a culture of enforcement?
Sept. 26, 2018 The News Tribune
Bad guys will be up the river when these cops finish their training
Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission provides training to sheriff’s deputies Re: “…a terrorist threat or protester boat was getting too close to a high-value target: A nuclear submarine, commercial boat or cruise ship, among others.”
“…Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission. The agency is in charge of training all 53 law enforcement agencies in the state that have marine units.”
“An Island County sheriff’s boat was in hot pursuit as deputies on board that boat played the part of, well, themselves.”
Please consider moving towards a Leave No Trace theme when it comes to posting warning signs at the parks.
Related:
Less Hassle – Oregon State Parks
Another Season – Another WA State Parks Checkpoint
Mixed Messages On What Is An Emergency
Local info:
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
We wouldn’t have the freedom to have a campfire if Saddam Hussein was still in power.
Another of many examples where freedoms may come & go-completely unrelated to military operations/US Troops in distant lands, or the Sound of Freedom:
1967
Did the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to safeguard American freedoms?
Was it the Viet Cong that set up laws in 16 US states to prohibit interracial marriage?
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Total nonsense:
WA Secretary of State
“Our right to vote has always been protected by the brave men and women who serve in our Armed Forces.”
If a right to vote has always been protected by the brave men and women who serve in our Armed Forces, how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
If a right to vote is protected by the US Armed Forces, what becomes of that right when the US leaves Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc., without a victory?
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
Right To Vote Linked To Military Operations/US Troops in Distant Lands?
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.
Are newspeople forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security funding and performance?
Love to see more in the way of newspeople out asking questions. Get away from posting the press release handed down from whatever agency was involved in the latest bust.
Zero questions from newspeople:
Local meth news stories here.
Local heroin news stories here.
Plenty of questions here:
Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree
The press release style of news reporting avoids asking questions. Our questions appear in bold type.
June 2, 2010 Peninsula Daily News
What happens next to alleged Canadian smugglers of a quarter-ton of pot?
“Customs and Border Protection agents on marine patrol apprehended the Canadians unloading 547 pounds of “B.C. bud” marijuana off the Deep Creek area about halfway between Port Angeles and Neah Bay at about 1:30 a.m. Monday, authorities said.”
July 4, 2010 Peninsula Daily News
Details emerge in big ‘BC bud’ pot bust case
“Two Canadian nationals were caught unloading it from a boat near Clallam Bay at about 1:20 a.m. May 31, according to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agent’s account of what occurred the night of the men’s capture following a 1.5-mile, high-speed boat chase.”
Why are Border Patrol arrest statistics secret at Port Angeles?
Port Angeles CBP arrest statistics are secret:
March 19, 2014 Sequim Gazette
Agent counters allegations of ‘boredom’
“In March, Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Richard Sinks declined to release statistics on apprehensions or detainments made by the Port Angeles station.”
“Disclosure of the arrest statistics from the Port Angeles station would provide those interested in crossing our borders illegally with information that could aid their strategic targeting of potentially vulnerable areas along the border,” he said in an e-mail. “To maintain operational security these numbers will not be provided.”
Go and ask the FBI for Chicago bank robbery statistics. You’ll get the numbers. They won’t tell you that statistics/public records must be withheld because stats would assist bank robbers if they were shared with the public.
What other law enforcement agencies, anywhere in the US maintain secret arrest statistics?
Washington State Patrol shares DUI arrest statistics on social media here:
“Our #WSP District 8 troopers removed 1,429 impaired drivers from the roads in 2018.”
“Here is a breakdown of what it looks like in each of our 7 counties.”
Elsewhere, when CBP has something to brag about-the public is promptly notified:
Border Patrol K-9 Sniffs out Cocaine Hidden in Dashboard
Border Patrol Stops Drug Smuggler on I-8
Border Patrol Agent’s Public Safety Check Turns into Heroin Bust
If releasing info about arrests helps the bad guys, why was the public promptly notified of the May 31, 2010 arrests described at the top of this page?
Almost exactly 10 years later:
May 16, 2020 Bellingham Herald
Border agents seize nearly 500 pounds of marijuana on boat from Canada
“Several agencies partnered to intercept a drug shipment from Canada Monday, May 11, that contained nearly 500 pounds of marijuana, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.”
“Department of Homeland Security investigators, along with Bellingham Air and Marine Operations and Border Patrol agents, tracked the 23-foot Bayliner boat from Canadian waters to the John Wayne Marina in Sequim, according to a news release Friday, May 15. Agents then seized the boat and 497 pounds of marijuana.”
The most complete coverage on this incident seems to come from state-run media:
May 15, 2020 U.S. Customs and Border Protection
DHS partners coordinate to seize nearly 500 pounds of marijuana
“U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Port Angeles Station in coordination with Air and Marine Operations, Bellingham Air and Marine Branch, and Homeland Security Investigations interdicted a narcotics smuggling load on Monday, which had originated in Canada.”
May 12, 2020 US Border Patrol Acting Chief Patrol Agent Tony Holladay
“Blaine Sector’s Port Angeles Station, CBP’s AMO and HSI seized 496 pounds of marijuana that was smuggled across the U.S./Canada maritime border yesterday morning. Always vigilant! #Teamwork #HonorFirst”
If releasing info about arrests will help the bad guys, why was the public promptly notified of the May 11, 2020 arrests described above?
Two incidents, almost exactly 10 years apart, both involving very similar quantities of marijuana.
Since Sept. 11th, 2001, are these the only two cross-border arrests made by the Port Angeles Border Patrol?
Are legal marijuana rules and restrictions in Washington State, so complicated that the black market continues to thrive?
Questions newspeople will not ask:
Are fraudulent overtime claims still the norm at Port Angeles?
Border Patrol whistleblower pays price for refusing overtime pay
Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound meth or heroin?
Even one time?
Is local CBP staffing and infrastructure at all relevant in keeping heroin and meth from entering Port Angeles, Clallam County, the Olympic Peninsula, or the Puget Sound area?
Newspeople,
Why did the Blaine Sector Weekly US Border Patrol blotter go extinct?
When local USBP staffing went from four to 42 agents, what increase in arrests and apprehensions was achieved?
Related:
Cartel responds to General Milley by moving more product into the US
Zero Questions from Puget Sound Area Newspeople – Drug War Press Release
Pentagon Going After Cartels Update
Podcast 2 Pentagon Taking On Drug Cartels
DOD Symbolism vs. Track Record
The Big Drug Bust – Always Reported as a Highly Successful Team Effort
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Newspeople play the role of federal public affairs personnel during Operation Macho Swagger–a ride-along to let us know what is being done to keep the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca safe from B.C. incursions: Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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Vancouver Island from Crescent Beach
Watching this one come long.
In the ground for about 13 months.
Grass clippings for mulch.
May 12, 2020 Cliff Mass Weather Blog
Seattle Parks without Parking, Washington Beaches without Beachcombers
“What we have here is the threat of collective punishment if a few people “break the rules” created by some misguided elected officials or city/state bureaucrats. Everyone will suffer if a few kids gather too closely or some of the “unwoken” have an illicit picnic.”
May 13th, 2020 KOMO News
Impaired teen busted for doing 110 mph on freeway, State Patrol says
“A 16-year-old is facing charges of reckless driving and DUI after state troopers say he was pulled over doing 110 mph on Interstate 182 in Pasco.”
“He also is facing possible additional charges of DUI and driving without a license, state troopers say.”
Speeding.
Reckless driving.
DUI.
Driving without a license.
Risking the safety of others.
Any plan to restrict travel on WA roads due to these sorts of cases?
Washington State Parks
I have been visiting the parks since the 70s. Today’s parks are much more about a culture of warnings and enforcement than they were in the old days. Driving over to the local state park these days is like asking permission to enter a military base.
This was true prior to the current news Re: COVID-19.
Wondering if something like 89 cents of each dollar collected for daytime parking fees goes directly towards funding of the manufacturing, installation and maintenance of enforcement related warning signs, kiosks, pay boxes, fluorescent placards, and the manufacturing and distribution of enforcement related literature, blank forms and documentation materials.
Enjoy Washington’s Natural Heritage
May 12, 2020 Whidbey News-Times
Blue Fox petitions to avoid becoming pandemic casualty
“The drive-in, located along Monroe Landing Road just south of Oak Harbor, has been family owned and operated since 1988. Last week, the Blue Fox cancelled a free screening of “I Still Believe.” The drive-in’s owners posted online that they were unable to get clarification from Inslee’s office on when drive-in theaters could reopen.”
May 12, 2020 South Whidbey Record
Iconic inn gets new cedar roof thanks to grant
Alternative/independent news media in Keene, NH out asking questions about why voluntarily funded projects are non-essential:
Seattle area LE officer reflects on the Bill of Rights:
Discussion of the role of law enforcement in a free society
Whidbey Island
Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.
Pizza delivery, marijuana and booze sales roll on as government agencies phase out access and services.
Local press responds with reduced coverage and less in the way of asking questions.
Concealed Carry Processing Suspended
Mixed Messages On What Is An Emergency
Looks like Sound Publishing has removed all old comments and shut down the opportunity to post new comments on all of their newspaper web editions?
Manage it, don’t ban it. Online comment sections
Ready to Support Local News on Whidbey Island
I feel like a man on the moon in 1969 was a proud American moment.
Since that time, both major parties have taken turns in power and have squandered credibility that would help in the current situation.
We were told we needed to send troops to Vietnam to stay safe.
Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, etc.
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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Welcome Visitors
Rent yourself a State Parks buoy at Fort Worden
Voted best consumer value in weekend recreation.
Update:
More here:
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.
Are newspeople forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security and DOD funding and performance?
A 5th grade book report would require more in the way of asking questions.
US Troops at the border, El Chapo takedown, opioid lawsuits, REAL ID, Homeland Security grant money, CBP social media posts, strict post 911 security protocols, and a $51.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security fail to keep cartel-sourced product out of US communities.
In the news-
After squandering DOD credibility for decades in distant lands, a new WWII style uniform look and a pledge to clobber the cartels:
April 1, 2020 C-SPAN
Away from border crossings and ports of entry:
May 20th 2020 News 4 San Antonio
K-9 unit finds more than $2.7 million of heroin inside car batteries during traffic stop
A major drug bust is reported as a highly successful team effort, after cartel manages to move product past General Milley’s DOD, a $51.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security, then on into the University Heights neighborhood of the Bronx:
May 08, 2020 Drug Enforcement Administration
Coronavirus-stamped heroin/fentanyl glassines seized in the Bronx: Six individuals charged
Special Narcotics Prosecutor Bridget G. Brennan:
“Taking a million dollars’ worth of deadly drugs off the street is critical at this time, when isolation and fear make substance users ever more vulnerable. A team of investigators and attorneys demonstrated remarkable dedication, following investigative leads to this successful conclusion, despite the added dangers of enforcement during a crisis of this magnitude, and I commend them.”
Taking deadly drugs off the street after cartel was able to move product past DOD and the US Dept. of Homeland Security.
Well done guys.
“A long-term investigation into a narcotics trafficking operation in New York City, with distribution throughout the Northeast, led to the seizure of approximately 120,000 glassine envelopes of suspected heroin/fentanyl worth over a million dollars, as well as $25,000 cash and drug packaging materials.”
Wonder what was happening at border crossing inspections during this long-term investigation. Do the good guys who made the local bust notify the good guys at the border and ports of entry about the weak links in their process? Any newspeople available to do a follow-up with General Milley?
“Traffickers market their drugs like businesses, branding their product with stamps to attract users, like ’24 Black Mamba’; or use an ‘Antrax’ stamp to designate origins and reference enforcer gangs of the Sinaloa Cartel.”
“I applaud the New York Drug Enforcement Task Force and the New York City Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor for their diligent work on this investigation.”
Will the New York Drug Enforcement Task Force and the New York City Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor be shut down after General Milley’s plan prevents cartels form moving product into the US?
May 14, 2020 KIRO 7 News
$3 million worth of cocaine seized at US-Canadian border
“CBP officials said they referred a tractor-trailer driven by a Canadian citizen for additional examination during an outbound inspection.”
May 14, 2020 Washington Examiner
Man nabbed smuggling $3M worth of cocaine into Canada from the US
“Customs officers stopped a blue 2000 Freightliner with British Columbia tags towing a trailer with Oklahoma plates as it attempted to pass through outbound inspection lanes May 9. The officers found five handbags in the back of the trailer that contained 132 pounds of cocaine, worth $3 million in street value.”
Any word on how the $3 million worth of cocaine got past General Milley’s DOD, a $51.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security, then on into WA?
Newspeople remain silent.
May 27, 2020 Bellingham Herald
$2.5 million in cocaine found in commercial truck crossing into Canada near Blaine
“The Canadian Border Services Agency announced that it seized 20 kilograms of suspected cocaine found in a commercial truck attempting to cross the border from the U.S. at the Pacific Highway port of entry Commercial operation earlier this month near Blaine.”
“It is the second significant drug bust at the Blaine border crossing this month.”
“On May 9, an anonymous tip led U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Pacific Highway Truck Crossing to find an estimated $3 million in cocaine in a commercial truck heading to Canada. Officers believe the driver of the truck is connected to a large international drug trafficking organization”
Any word on how the cocaine made it into WA before the attempted transport into Canada?
Welcome Home Troops
Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan-working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.
Don’t worry-The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:
May 13, 2020 Sequim Gazette
Local law enforcement seeing rise in overdoses
“A culmination of several factors, many of them related to the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak, are suspected driving forces behind a boom in heroin overdoses in recent weeks, local law enforcement and health officials said last week.”
Zero questions from newspeople:
Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound heroin?
Even one time?
May 7, 2020 My Clallam County
CLALLAM OVERDOSES SPIKED UP SINCE PANDEMIC SHUTDOWN
“Clallam County law enforcement and fire personnel responded to 8 known heroin overdoses in January through March of this year. In the month of April alone, that number spiked to 19.”
“More fentanyl in the local drug supply may also be contributing to the overdoses. OPNET detectives say information from multiple sources suggests there is an increased volume of fentanyl in the local methamphetamine and heroin supply.”
Love to see newspeople ask:
Is Port Angeles CBP staffing and infrastructure at all relevant in keeping heroin, fentanyl and methamphetamine from arriving on the Olympic Peninsula?
More here:
Pentagon Going After Cartels Update
Podcast 2 Pentagon Taking On Drug Cartels
DOD Symbolism vs. Track Record
Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree
The Big Drug Bust – Always Reported as a Highly Successful Team Effort
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
Looking north towards the Bluff Trail
Same country that will stage a big celebration of smaller/limited government on July 4th.
May 7, 2020 Q13 NEWS
Air Force flyover to honor healthcare workers Friday in Western Washington
Same news source that tells us face masks are required on Whidbey Island, when, really they mean masks are required in the city of Langley. Check your local geography guys.
Why Now?
Not much good news from the undeclared wars overseas.
Sporting events have been shut down.
Its been a while since Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper reminded us that our Service Members are fiercely defending the freedoms we value every day.
This is a great time for an ongoing militarization of non-military events, and we are the very best at militarized pageantry.
In the news:
April 29, 2020 USA Today
US fighter jet aircraft have been able to strike targets in what wars won by the US?
Press plays the role of US Armed Forces public affairs staff:
April 29, 2020 KTVO Television
The National Guard is in on it too.
The National Guard has also been in the news recently for their work in supporting local food banks.
Some people may prefer to have churches and private charities run food banks.
When the national guard isn’t helping to support food banks, they are involved in various operations in distant lands.
The people of Iowa need services in one or more locations which may include 20 nations in the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia, including Afghanistan, Iraq and other countries. Also in the Republic of Kosovo:
May 6, 2020 The Messenger
Iowa National Guard units to deploy overseas
“About 330 soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 194th Field Artillery, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat team will deploy in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. Central Command is made up of 20 nations in the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia, including Afghanistan, Iraq and other countries.”
“An additional 400 Iowa National Guard soldiers received mobilization orders to support NATO’s ongoing Kosovo Force mission in the Republic of Kosovo.”
This can all be a little confusing for the average person, so maybe the flyovers will help to solidify pride and a patriotic spirit.
More here:
DOD Symbolism vs. Track Record
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Just in time for warmer weather, an old favorite is back. We have enjoyed this one sveral times in the past.
Today’s beer glass comes to us from Big Block Brewery & Taproom.
Looking good guys.
Wednesday, May 6, 2020 The Washington Times
CBS denies staging scene of lengthy coronavirus testing line
“CBS News has denied faking a scene of novel coronavirus testing in Michigan by padding the drive-thru line with clinic workers to make the health center look busier than it was, as alleged in a Project Veritas expose released Wednesday.”
“In a statement to the Washington Times, CBS News denied that the crew staged such a scene, which would be a clear breach of journalistic ethics.”
“The segment, called “Michigan Ramps Up Testing” and introduced by “CBS Morning News” host Gayle King, focused on the importance of expanded testing as the state seeks to reopen after shutting down vast swaths of the economy for the coronavirus.”
Did CBS ask questions on the day they showed up in Grand Rapids to report on this story?
Were no questions asked Re:
How many people arrived for testing on that day?
From how far away were some of these people traveling to be tested?
What was the average wait time after arriving for testing?
Did CBS interview any of the people who came to be tested on that day?
Did CBS obtain or review any records of testing conducted on that day?
If CBS had asked more basic questions, in order to inform the public, CBS may have had a better understanding of the situation before they aired the story.
May 6, 2020 WOOD TV8 News Video
Expert: Accusations of staged COVID-19 test line fodder for doubters
“This just provides more reason for people to doubt what they see on the news — and not just on CBS — but this doesn’t do anybody any good,” Tompkins told News 8. “The viewer, who already is skeptical, or maybe even cynical, now is able to point to this to say, ‘Oh wait, those lines aren’t real.’”
“CBS removed the Grand Rapids video from its online report, but as of Wednesday evening did not include information about the change to the story on its website.”
May 6, 2020 The Washington Post
CBS News edits testing story after Project Veritas exposes clinic’s line-stuffing ploy
From Project Veritas:
MAY 06, 2020 Project Veritas
CBS News This Morning’ Aired Faked COVID-19 Drive-Through Testing Site Line of Cars
MAY 06, 2020 Project Veritas
Possibly of interest:
Manage it, don’t ban it. Online comment sections
Ready To Purchase A Subscription – Whidbey Water Quality
Ready to Support Local News on Whidbey Island
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
In recent weeks, the trails I am familiar with at Fort Ebey have remained unrestricted. Back out today to enjoy the scene.
Related:
Mixed Messages On What Is An Emergency
Designated as fully nonessential in all 50 states.
An idea handed down from people who have more experience than we do.
We are the very best at militarized pageantry.
In the news:
April 29, 2020 USA Today
US fighter jet aircraft have been able to strike targets in what wars won by the US?
Press plays the role of US Armed Forces public affairs staff:
April 29, 2020 KTVO Television
Drug War
US Troops at the border, El Chapo takedown, opioid lawsuits, REAL ID, Homeland Security grant money, CBP social media posts, strict post 911 security protocols, and a $51.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security fail to keep cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, fentanyl and meth out of US communities.
After squandering DOD credibility for decades in distant lands, a new WWII style uniform look and a pledge to clobber the cartels:
April 1, 2020 C-SPAN
General Milley, the DEA says they still have big problems:
April 28th 2020 KABB FOX 29 News video:
“According to the DEA, almost all the methamphetamine consumed in the U.S. comes from Mexico, where it’s produced on an industrial scale and smuggled across the border.”
“The cartels in Mexico are flooding the domestic illegal drug market with methamphetamine,” said Special Agent Sorianello.
General Milley,
How will ships, aircraft and troops in the Caribbean & eastern Pacific keep cartels from moving product into US communities?
Looks like more time will be needed for DOD to keep cartel product from showing up away from border crossings and ports of entry:
April 29, 2020 KPBX-FM
Ohio County Prosecutor: Pandemic Puts More Stress On Families Dealing With Addiction
“Kimes-Brown says the county is still struggling with what she calls a “horrible” meth problem and is also seeing more abuse of fentanyl and carfentanil. “The fentanyl use is deadly,” she says.”
US Ports of Entry
March 2, 2020 Auburn Examiner
DEA Announces Launch of Methamphetamine Initiative
Billions of dollars spent every 12 months on a US Dept. of Homeland Security that fails to keep cartels from moving product into Hometown, USA.
Welcome Home Troops
Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan-working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.
Don’t worry-The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:
A Dept. of Defense with a truly poor track record for winning wars since DOD was established way back in 1949.
A Dept. of Defense that was nowhere to be found on 911.
We haven’t won a war since.
More here:
Pentagon Going After Cartels Update
Podcast 2 Pentagon Taking On Drug Cartels
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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Low tide day – Port Townsend Ship Canal
Getting started with Black Oil sunflower seeds.
We’ll eat some and try to grow some in the garden.
April 30, 2010 Seattle Times
Yardsmart: Think big with sunflower seeds
Here is the video that got us interested in trying this:
More here:
