Above: Port Hadlock Transit Center
What Others Are Saying
The Jimmy Dore Show
Valhalla VFT
Related:
Glenn Diesen Clips
FOX 10 Phoenix
Archives for category: A Free And Honest Society
Above: Nordland Transit Center
A State Of The Union Not Recently Seen On TV
Questions For Or About MAGA
The Jimmy Dore Show
US Armed Forces Stop Loss?
Valhalla VFT
The Oak Bay Starfish take:
Bad timing for a draft because The Joint Chiefs of Staff spent past years squandering credibility and prestige with undeclared/unwon wars and military operations for your freedoms.
They tried a draft during the Vietnam War. They ended up finding out they had to stop.
Don’t lie to people and maybe they would be more patriotic.
Last time there was a draft, children were raised by the WWII generation, in families where Mom and Dad were married to each other.
What makes elected officials believe we have some sort of 1950s crop of citizens now who would comply with a draft?
Has the US ever won an undeclared war using a draft?
From 2004
“Today, however, the Congress has relinquished its delegated powers, giving the President license to do whatever he and his office determine that they can get away with. Consequentially, the presidential and legislative oaths to the Constitution have just turned into a great photo op on inauguration day.”
“It is a sad and hard realization for a grunt who loves the Marine Corps to admit that the organization is not used in the preservation of liberty, and has not been used toward that end for a very long time.”
Source:
By Casey Khan
February 14, 2004
Armed Forces Recruiting – 1980s
Part of what made it work:
In past decades, people could do time in uniform, then return to the US with a feeling that they were living in the best country on the planet.
They believed it and their parents and grandparents believed it.
Those who did may have wished to hand down a better version of the modern American society to their kids and grandkids.
Today-
Standards have deteriorated. The troops return to an ongoing breakdown of society.
Both major parties have taken turns in power over the past 40 years or so. For sure, there is a chunk of public policy that has become worse, not better.
Emergency/crisis/chaos mode is what we get now.
ReasonTV
During the Vietnam War, US troops were sent to Vietnam.
Feb 26, 2024:
The Ohio National Guard is sent to “support Operation Spartan Shield and Operation Inherent Resolve.”
What Others Are Saying
Katie Phang
Related:
Mixed Messages – Strikes On Iran
The federal government tells lies. The press asks zero questions.
Sealed Border Fails To Keep Drugs Out Of WA
Early days after Iran strikes:
Above: Approved Flag Images
A symbol of the propaganda that makes it all work.
What Others Are Saying
Judge Napolitano – Judging Freedom
The Oak Bay Starfish Take
Right now it is possible to find info that makes it look like the war is going well. Others believe differently.
The situation can be controversial based on:
Campaign statements of the past/Trump the candidate versus Trump of the present day.
Past track record for solving problems in distant lands or at home.
The Constitution.
We were told we needed to send troops to Vietnam.
Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, etc. Some may have become skeptical along the way.
Don’t lie to people and maybe they would be more patriotic.
Federal Drug War Scam
The post 911 surveillance state (fusion centers, license scanners, Homeland Security grant money, monitoring of e-mails, text messages, & social media sites, no fly/terror watch lists, tracking of cell phones, best advances in REAL ID and AI technologies, etc.) fails to keep fentanyl out of the greater Puget Sound area.
Some version of REAL ID has been required at border crossings and ports of entry since 2009.
More cartel drug overdose deaths now, or before REAL ID?
Any questions from newspeople?
Why It Matters
Americans were told that they faced a life and death situation after 911. If certain actions were not taken, terrorists could come to America to disrupt our way of life and attempt another 911.
If all this was a life and death situation that required sending the troops to Iraq and Afghanistan, wouldn’t it be important to ask a few public policy questions about what was going on?
Newspeople have a long history of not asking questions in this area.
The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.
Look for newspeople and school teachers to ask zero questions in this area:
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Love to see newspeople interview elected officials and let us know how sending US Troops to Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia, etc., is somehow defending the constitution.
Podcast 9 Defending The Constitution?
Above: Approved Flag Images
A symbol of the propaganda that makes it all work.
Sentinel
Breaking Points
Glenn Greenwald
Valhalla VFT
Liberty Vault
Tennessee Brando
Sentinel
Judge Napolitano – Judging Freedom
Yet Another Illegal Regime-Change War
Bill Astore – Bracing Views
Feb 28, 2026
What are the main U.S. military bases in the Middle East?
Feb 28, 2026 – Reuters
The Fantasy Newsperson Asks:
If the CIA (est 1947) serves as an advantage to the US, why does the Department of Defense have such a poor record of winning undeclared wars going back to 1949, the year DOD was established?
REAL ID
Some version of REAL ID has been required at border crossings and ports of entry since 2009.
More cartel drug overdose deaths now, or before REAL ID?
Any questions from newspeople?
The Fantasy Newsperson Asks:
What keeps the terrorists with no ID of any kind from creating a disruption at the back end of the airport security screening line?
More here:
Air Travel – TV Newspeople Will Never Question The War On Terror
Why It Matters
Americans were told that they faced a life and death situation after 911. If certain actions were not taken, terrorists could come to America to disrupt our way of life and attempt another 911.
If all this was a life and death situation that required sending the troops to Iraq and Afghanistan, wouldn’t it be important to ask a few public policy questions about what was going on?
Newspeople have a long history of not asking questions in this area.
More here:
Cartel Boss Removed – Supported By Intelligence From Washington
Related:
Ongoing Militarization of American Culture
I had a good time in Boy Scouts in the 1970s. Not happy with all the changes since.
This is the same country that stages a big celebration of freedom and independence from a powerful central government each July 4th.
The Dept. of War will watch over and manipulate whatever this club is up to now?
“Some of the changes mirror what the organization suggested to the Defense Department in January, which included discontinuing its Citizenship in Society merit badge and introducing a Military Service merit badge as well as waiving registration fees for the children of military personnel.”
Source:
Scouting America Will Alter Its Policies to Maintain Support From the US Military, Pentagon Says
By Ben Finley and Jamie Stengle – Associated Press
Feb 27, 2026
Less respect for both organizations now.
Decades after the lessons of Vietnam, the Pentagon seems to specialize in undeclared/unwon wars.
It feels like a society where honest and meaningful ideas stand up to questioning and discussion, but the questioning and discussion rarely takes place.
You can be sure that newspeople and the teachers who stage Veterans Day assemblies will never ask questions to make sense of how sending US troops to distant lands is related to American rights and freedoms.
More Discussion Please
Both major parties tell us The Troops are sent to distant lands to defend American rights and freedoms.
CNN Nov 11, 2023
Biden honors Americans who ‘stood on the front lines of freedom’ in Veterans Day remarks
The Fantasy Newsperson Asks:
Mr President,
Going back to the 1990 Operation Desert Shield,
How would American freedoms today be any different if US troops were never sent to Iraq?
The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.
Look for newspeople and school teachers to ask zero questions in this area:
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Love to see newspeople interview elected officials and let us know how sending US Troops to Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia, etc., is somehow defending the constitution.
Podcast 9 Defending The Constitution?
Strike Iran? Do The Math First – Sentinel
The Jimmy Dore Show
Sentinel
The Fantasy Newsperson Asks:
If the CIA (est 1947) serves as an advantage to the US, why does the Department of Defense have such a poor record of winning undeclared wars going back to 1949, the year DOD was established?
Some version of REAL ID has been required at border crossings and ports of entry since 2009.
More cartel drug overdose deaths now, or before REAL ID?
Any questions from newspeople?
Why It Matters
Americans were told that they faced a life and death situation after 911. If certain actions were not taken, terrorists could come to America to disrupt our way of life and attempt another 911.
If all this was a life and death situation that required sending the troops to Iraq and Afghanistan, wouldn’t it be important to ask a few public policy questions about what was going on?
Newspeople have a long history of not asking questions in this area.
More here:
Cartel Boss Removed – Supported By Intelligence From Washington
Possibly of interest:
Related:
News Content
Newspeople Not Asking Questions
Sound Publishing And Black Press Media
Port Angeles Homeland Security Spending Spree
Grays Harbor Fentanyl & Meth Not Stopped By Kristi Noem
Air Travel – TV Newspeople Will Never Question The War On Terror
A giant flag ritual at the next ball game will make it all good.
Take An Oath To The Constitution
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
Above: Out for a walk.
These guys discuss leadership:
Cleared Hot Clips
Possibly of interest:
Welcoming Visitors From Canada – USA 250
Seems Like – Past Image of Law Enforcement
Some version of REAL ID has been required at border crossings and ports of entry since 2009.
More cartel drug overdose deaths now, or before REAL ID?
Any questions from newspeople?
Why It Matters
Americans were told that they faced a life and death situation after 911. If certain actions were not taken, terrorists could come to America to disrupt our way of life and attempt another 911.
If all this was a life and death situation that required sending the troops to Iraq and Afghanistan, wouldn’t it be important to ask a few public policy questions about what was going on?
Newspeople have a long history of not asking questions in this area.
Above: Port Townsend Ship Canal/South Indian Island
Tax money- which some people intend to be used to help others via public assistance programs– also goes for bombing Somalia.
Helping others by donating to churches or private charities, food banks, etc. can avoid these conflicts.
Donors are free to opt out if a charity misbehaves.
Forced Charity
The government doesn’t specialize in anything other than feeding itself.
People could keep more of their own money to donate to causes of their choosing if the federal government was not taking it to pay for wasteful programs.
Original post:
Nov 22, 2016
Above: Approved Flag Images
A symbol of the propaganda that makes it all work.
Sentinel
The Oak Bay Starfish Take
Pro sports and made for TV events are part of the entertainment industry.
They are not part of the federal government even though we often see militarized pageantry, giant flag rituals, fighter jet flyovers and quick views of The Troops still in the Middle East at game time.
It is easy to be a bit confused because the federal government is very much involved in the event each year.
The event does play to a groupthink patriotism. Some might prefer it was just sports and who cares about the Ads and the show at halftime.
Head over to markets in the International District of Seattle or the agricultural Skagit Valley and you will see products with labels not printed in English. Visit a cafe for lunch. You will be amongst a different culture. Good with me.
US History
Puerto Rican Medal of Honor recipients:
Remembering the fallen: Puerto Rican Medal of Honor recipients
By Sgt. 1st Class Deziree Lau 99th Readiness Division
Puerto Ricans Represented Throughout U.S. Military History
By Shannon Collins – DOD News
Oct. 14, 2016
Possibly of interest:
Super Bowl Flyovers – Propaganda Update
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
The people of Alaska need services in the Middle East
Above: Approved Flag Images
A symbol of the propaganda that makes it all work.
DoW Christian Service Draws Dozens of Complaints from Members, Contractors
By Nick Mordowanec – Military.com
Feb 15, 2026
Possibly of interest:
Take An Oath To The Constitution
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
Above: Approved Flag Images
A symbol of the propaganda that makes it all work.
This is the same country that stages a big celebration of freedom and independence from a powerful central government each July 4th.
In The News
FCC scrutinizes Bad Bunny halftime show for potential rule violations: Report
KOMO News
Feb 13, 2026
Leader is not pleased with entertainment choices:
Trump calls Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show a ‘slap in the face to our country’
By Nadine El-Bawab – ABC News
Feb 8, 2026
US History
Puerto Rican Medal of Honor recipients:
Remembering the fallen: Puerto Rican Medal of Honor recipients
By Sgt. 1st Class Deziree Lau 99th Readiness Division
Puerto Ricans Represented Throughout U.S. Military History
By Shannon Collins – DOD News
Oct. 14, 2016
Possibly of interest:
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
Above: Grays Harbor – looking south towards Westport.
From 1976 Bicentennial To USA 250
TV Ads
Today, overweight people are hired to do TV Ads for pharmaceutical drugs used to achieve weight loss.
More here:
Breaking Points
Back in 1976, people shown on TV seemed less likely to be overweight. Something like the ship’s crew seen on the The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau, or Reality TV when I was a kid:
50 years from adolescent males backpacking on overnight Boy Scout outings to role models for profit on TV and reaching for injections and pills in order to deal with being fat.
USA 250
Same country that stages a big celebration of freedom and independence from a powerful central government each July 4th.
Today:
Leader is not pleased with entertainment choices:
Trump calls Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show a ‘slap in the face to our country’
By Nadine El-Bawab – ABC News
Feb 8, 2026
US History
Puerto Rican Medal of Honor recipients:
Remembering the fallen: Puerto Rican Medal of Honor recipients
By Sgt. 1st Class Deziree Lau 99th Readiness Division
Puerto Ricans Represented Throughout U.S. Military History
By Shannon Collins – DOD News
Oct. 14, 2016
What Others Are Saying
Tennessee Brando
TYT Sports
Journalism funded by advocacy groups:
Cliff Mass Weather Blog
Feb 7, 2026
Misinformation in the Seattle TImes About Drought, Snowpack, and Climate Change
Old Man Blog category:
Thoughts on changes in American culture relating to those born roughly in the late 50s & early 60s.
Original Old Man Blog here: https://oldmanblogdotcom.wordpress.com
New updates here: https://oakbaystarfish.com/category/old-man-blog/
Related:
Above: Approved Flag Images
A symbol of the propaganda that makes it all work.
The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.
In The News
‘High Stress, High Stakes’: Behind-The-Scenes Look at Super Bowl Flyover
By Nick Mordowanec – Military.com
Feb 4, 2026
“U.S. Air Force Sports Outreach Program Manager Katie Spencer has overseen planning for six Super Bowl flyovers, but each year presents new challenges. She and her team are always ready to meet and exceed expectations, especially to celebrate the United States’ 250th birthday.”
“The Air Force-Navy collaboration representing 250 years of airpower and maritime strength is deemed a reflection of the entire U.S. Armed Forces—Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard—that safeguards freedom.”
Freedom?
In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our 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, semi automatic rifle sales, federal minimum drinking age, federal toilet regulations, sports betting, federal gas can regulations/free enterprise system, web censorship, voting rights, bump stock ban, interracial marriage, gay marriage, tobacco sales, open container laws, etc.
American freedoms come and go.
None of the above are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.
Both major parties are OK with federal prohibition of alcohol and tobacco for adults age 18-20.
No such thing the day I graduated from high school.
That was before decades of military operations for your freedoms.
Both major political parties are now OK with treating 18-20 year old adults as second-class citizens.
Why do elected officials and high level DOD civilians speak of the US Armed Forces as if they function as some sort of giant civil rights organization?
Look for newspeople and school teachers to ask zero questions in this area:
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Love to see newspeople interview elected officials and let us know how sending US Troops to Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia, etc., is somehow defending the constitution.
Podcast 9 Defending The Constitution?
Lies About Freedom
It’s all about the freedom folks.
Biden honors Americans who ‘stood on the front lines of freedom’ in Veterans Day remarks
CNN Nov 11, 2023
Sorry, no newspeople available to ask:
Mr President,
How would American freedoms and the Constitution be any different today if US troops were never sent to Iraq way back in 1991?
Look for newspeople and school teachers to ask zero questions in this area.
May 28, 2020 WMAR
Salisbury Mayor deploying to Africa with Maryland National Guard
Several news sources published this quote. View them here.
The idea that sending hometown troops to Africa would be linked in any way with keeping the people of Salisbury Maryland safe and free calls for more discussion.
Mayor Day,
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.”
Happy 250 USA
Bill Hicks: You are free to do as we tell you.
At 4:17 below, Bill Hicks delivers his message.
Credibility squandered, enthusiasm dried up.
A giant flag ritual at the next ball game will make it all good.
Don’t lie to people and maybe they would be more patriotic.
Mainstream Media Functions Like Paid Actors Reading A Script
Americans do not live in a free and honest society. Today, the mainstream media will function like paid actors reading a script:
Would any newsperson ever ask:
Did the advantage of US air power allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?
US jet aircraft have been able to strike targets in what wars won by the US?
Currently serving four-star officers and high level DOD civilians have been associated with what wars won by the US?
From 2004
“Today, however, the Congress has relinquished its delegated powers, giving the President license to do whatever he and his office determine that they can get away with. Consequentially, the presidential and legislative oaths to the Constitution have just turned into a great photo op on inauguration day.”
“It is a sad and hard realization for a grunt who loves the Marine Corps to admit that the organization is not used in the preservation of liberty, and has not been used toward that end for a very long time.”
Source:
By Casey Khan
February 14, 2004
Related:
Air Travel – TV Newspeople Will Never Question The War On Terror
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
Take An Oath To The Constitution
The people of Alaska need services in the Middle East
The country struggles with:
Above: Approved Flag Images
A symbol of the propaganda that makes it all work.
2nd Amendment
Washington Gun Law
Federal Gun Ban for Marijuana Users?
Another of many examples where American freedoms may come & go-completely unrelated to military operations/US Troops in distant lands, or the Sound of Freedom over Coupeville.
From the web:
Jacob Sullum – Reason
Feb 2, 2026
The NRA and NORML Unite To Oppose the Federal Gun Ban for Marijuana Users
Our take:
It’s a society that can’t stop bragging about freedom, thanking the troops for freedoms, fighting wars for freedoms, staging military jet flyovers at sporting events for freedom, etc.
Would any newsperson or school teacher ever ask:
It took a constitutional amendment to prohibit the sale of a glass of wine- why no constitutional amendment to authorize a federal prohibition of marijuana?
Today-
You may fill a shopping cart with hard liquor, make the purchase and head home. You do not give up your guns.
Yon may be involved in a serious car wreck and take prescription meds that may include mind and body altering opioids. You are not required to turn in your guns.
More here: Imagination Run Wild
Above: Slow Lane – Hill Road
Federal Gun Ban for Marijuana Users?
Another of many examples where American freedoms may come & go-completely unrelated to military operations/US Troops in distant lands, or the Sound of Freedom over Coupeville.
From the web:
Jacob Sullum – Reason
Feb 2, 2026
The NRA and NORML Unite To Oppose the Federal Gun Ban for Marijuana Users
Our take:
It’s a society that can’t stop bragging about freedom, thanking the troops for freedoms, fighting wars for freedoms, staging military jet flyovers at sporting events for freedom, etc.
Would any newsperson or school teacher ever ask:
It took a constitutional amendment to prohibit the sale of a glass of wine- why no constitutional amendment to authorize a federal prohibition of marijuana?
Today-
You may fill a shopping cart with hard liquor, make the purchase and head home. You do not give up your guns.
Yon may be involved in a serious car wreck and take prescription meds that may include mind and body altering opioids. You are not required to turn in your guns.
More here: Imagination Run Wild
Security Theater
KOMO News
Real Newspeople May Ask:
What keeps the terrorists with no ID of any kind from creating a disruption at the back end of the airport security screening line?
Guaranteed: No TV newsperson anywhere will ever ask this question. Americans do not live in a free and honest society.
More here:
Air Travel – TV Newspeople Will Never Question The War On Terror
Would any newsperson ever ask:
Has any WA gun control measure or public policy effort of the past 20 years slowed down the gunfire between say, Everett and Tacoma?
KOMO News
More than 300 comments are posted with the video above.
Free Enterprise System
WSDOT spending $12M to fill electric vehicle charging gaps on state highways
by Theron Zahn – KOMO News
Feb 1, 2026
“The Washington Department of Transportation is giving more than 12 million dollars in federal money to five companies to make driving long distances in electric vehicles easier.”
Not really free enterprise if layers of government must be involved in moving money around in order to make it work?
Several comments are posted with the article.
An old favorite:
Seattle climate change:
Seattle invests nearly $1M to support diverse communities most affected by climate change
Image above: Penn Cove 1/30/2026
Source/Daily Status Reports: Washington State Department of Health Shellfish Safety Map
Click image once or twice to show detail.
Several Whidbey beaches remain closed all year long for recreational shellfish harvest because of sewage treatment outfall.
Sewage treatment outfall. Not stormwater. Not climate change.
Reporting on this topic appears to be completely off limits to the press.
View the Washington State Department of Health beach list here.
Penn Cove
Real newspeople may ask:
When is the last time all of Penn Cove was safe for recreational shellfish harvest?
Coupeville
“Clams, mussels and oysters CLOSED year-round.”
“…clams, oysters, and mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time.”
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing
“Clams, mussels and oysters CLOSED year-round.”
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
Below: An April 6, 2020 audio file describing recreational shellfish harvest and sewage treatment outfall at Penn Cove.
Has anything changed? Newspeople remain silent.
12:44 audio file and local photos of Penn Cove:
Podcast 4 Another Month With An R – Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfalls
A photo tour of Penn Cove:
Wastewater Treatment Plant – Department of Ecology Award For Outstanding Performance
Possibly of interest:
Sound Publishing And Black Press Media
Above: Approved Flag Images
A symbol of the propaganda that makes it all work.
The Hill
At 06:49 below:
Border Is Totally Closed
Back Home – Seattle, Bremerton, Everett, Tacoma, Port Angeles
Which community will be first to announce that local drug addicts are having any problem finding their cartel product of choice due to any federal drug war effort?
Any shortage of cartel product in any of these communities?
Any questions from newspeople?
December 2025 – The Border Is Not Sealed
Compliant TV newspeople host the DEA for friendly interviews avoiding any mention of progress made by Kristi Noem or Dept. of War strikes on drug boats.
Border Not Sealed – Seattle DEA
In recent years, the press tends to support government agencies, departments and policies rather than question them.
Arizona DEA – Border Not Sealed
Texas – All Federal Efforts Fall Short
Again- Kristi Noem’s giant and expensive US Dept. of Homeland Security appears to be completely irrelevant here.
The post 911 surveillance state (fusion centers, license scanners, Homeland Security grant money, monitoring of e-mails, text messages, & social media sites, no fly/terror watch lists, tracking of cell phones, best advances in REAL ID and AI technologies, etc.) fails to keep fentanyl out:
Fentanyl still flooding the Valley as DEA pushes for 0 deaths
by: Jorge Vela KVEO News
Dec 19, 2025
“The Drug Enforcement Agency has launched a new nationwide initiative called Fentanyl Free America, aiming for zero deaths from the deadly synthetic drug as fentanyl seizures continue to rise across the country.”
“Fentanyl was also recently designated a weapon of mass destruction, a move that expands the DEA’s authority to combat trafficking.”
“Dr. Melendez said illegal fentanyl is now the leading cause of death for Americans between the ages of 18 and 45.”
Texas Again – Dec 23, 2025
Newspeople play the role of DEA public affairs staff instead of asking questions in the promotional video below.
Zero questions Re: Kristi Noem’s giant and expensive US Dept. of Homeland Security.
Zero questions Re: Dept. of War Vietnam-style drug boat body counts.
Made for TV DEA spokesperson lets us know what to think:
In The News:
President Donald Trump talks ethanol, inflation and his accomplishments in Iowa
by Michael Howell – WGME News
Jan 27, 2026
“He spoke for 56 minutes about his support of ethanol, a hot topic in Iowa, inflation and touted his accomplishments from his first year of his second term in office.”
Ethanol
0:41 in the video below:
If ethanol made a lot of sense we wouldn’t have to subsidize it or mandate its consumption:
Tariffs
WatchlistTYT
Related:
Port Angeles Homeland Security Spending Spree
Throwback Thursday – Port Angeles Drug War
USA 250 – Where Are Things Now?
Above: Big driftwood at Point Partridge
Cliff Mass Weather Blog
Global Warming is Only A Modest Problem
Jan 19, 2026
As time goes on, the consumer choices we have are becoming more restricted by a combination of government and big business policies, not Saddam Hussein, Osama bin Laden or the next bad guy DOD will be going after in distant lands.
Some of the restrictions are related to climate change. Some are not.
Welcome Home Troops
The Uniparty is OK with decades of undeclared/unwon DOD wars and whatever pollution they generate. Look out for bans and restrictions on that lawnmower you wanted to buy.
Governments at various levels are now in the habit of setting deadlines for new restrictions, bans and mandates.
Smoking bans, plastic bag bans, gun bans, federal toilet regulations, bottled water bans, mandates on what sort of vehicle you may drive.
All this, while we are told that US military operations in distant lands are somehow linked to American rights and freedoms.
Alternative media provides an update on the banning of gas powered outdoor equipment:
Possibly of interest:
Consumer Demand Or Government Demand?
‘Pledge’ debate: A lesson in good manners; politeness wins
By Jeff Clemens – Chinook Observer
Jan 19, 2026
Trump Defends Flag On National Pledge Of Allegiance Day
The Dallas Express
Dec 29, 2025
No, you can’t make students stand for the Pledge of Allegiance
by Carrie Robison
Foundation for Individual Rights in Education
Jan 20, 2026
From Oak Bay Starfish
I grew up in the Cold War era. Pledge of allegiance in elementary school. Man on the Moon in ’69.
The WWII generation set up a modern society that seemed to be working pretty well during the last century. Still room for improvement, but mostly, things seemed to be up and running.
In the 60s & 70s I never attended a Veterans Day assembly at school.
There were none.
Probably enough veterans around to remove most of the mystique, or maybe those veterans thought it was all just an average thing and did not want to be seen as a separate part of American society, or get head of the line parking spots over at the grocery store. Maybe the concept of Armistice Day had not gone completely extinct.
Growing up in the 60s & 70s- veterans were all around- church, school, Boy Scout leaders, family, the neighborhood, etc. It was all just an average thing. These folks weren’t seen as a separate part of American society.
People weren’t stepping over to say “Thanks for your service” to my Dad- who did time in the Navy in the 50s- but looked just like anyone else out in public.
These guys weren’t lining up for free dinner promotions marketed by major restaurant chains.
Decades after the lessons of Vietnam, the Pentagon seems to specialize in undeclared/unwon wars.
My thing is:
Don’t lie to people and maybe they would be more patriotic.
Armed Forces Recruiting – 1980s
Part of what made it work:
In past decades, people could do time in uniform, then return to the US with a feeling that they were living in the best country on the planet.
They believed it and their parents and grandparents believed it.
Those who did may have wished to hand down a better version of the modern American society to their kids and grandkids.
Today-
Standards have deteriorated. The troops return to an ongoing breakdown of society.
Both major parties have taken turns in power over the past 40 years or so. For sure, there is a chunk of public policy that has become worse, not better.
Emergency/crisis/chaos mode is what we get now.
Old Man Blog category:
Thoughts on changes in American culture relating to those born roughly in the late 50s & early 60s.
Original Old Man Blog here: https://oldmanblogdotcom.wordpress.com
New updates here: https://oakbaystarfish.com/category/old-man-blog/
More here:
Take An Oath To The Constitution
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
Above: Out to North Jetty
Will the federal government move towards suppressing alternative media?
The Jimmy Dore Show
Related:
Illegal To Record Videos of ICE?
We were told we needed to send troops to Vietnam. Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, etc. Some may have become skeptical along the way.
Credibility squandered, enthusiasm dried up.
A giant flag ritual at the next ball game will make it all good.
Don’t lie to people and maybe they would be more patriotic.
Whatever people want to put in their shopping cart is OK with me. I’m not keeping track. I feel like more consumer choice is better. Not sure why we look to the federal government as a source to steer our lives.
USDA
“The Guidelines emphasize simple, flexible guidance rooted in modern nutrition science:
Prioritize protein at every meal
Consume full-fat dairy with no added sugars”
Same country that stages a big celebration of freedom and independence from a powerful central government each July 4th.
Last Century
The TV
Same country known for wall to wall ads for meds that come with gruesome and quality of life threatening side effects.
The federal government prefers that legal drug dealers of their choosing supply Americans with their meds.
Chronic Side Effects
May cause thoughts of death or suicide which may be permanent and can be fatal.
Hey, good news-
Grandpa is feeling better now that he has quit smoking.
He is feeling well enough to participate in a TV ad for the meds he took.
When you go to stay with Grandpa this summer, just know that he may be experiencing:
“Hostility, agitation, depressed mood, and suicidal thoughts or actions”
Possibly of interest:
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
Above: Indian Beach, Oregon
Sentinel
US Advantage – Macho Swagger
Watch Secretary of War Pete Hegseth takes thrilling fighter jet ride with ‘Top-Gun’ pilots:
Since 1986 Top Gun:
The US Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911.
We haven’t won a war since.
Decades after the lessons of Vietnam, it feels like the people who run the Pentagon specialize in undeclared/unwon wars.
Would any TV newsperson ever ask:
Did the advantage of US air power allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?
US jet aircraft have been able to strike targets in what wars won by the US?
Currently serving four-star officers and high level DOD civilians have been associated with what wars won by the US?
Above: A meetup with newspeople who ask questions.
Same country that stages a big celebration of freedom and independence from a powerful central government each July 4th:
WatchlistTYT
Related:
Take An Oath To The Constitution
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
War Veteran Speaks:
Trade, Travel and Friendship
Some might say trade, travel and friendship (as much as possible) are good for the economy. This approach may help to avoid misunderstandings and wars.
Welcoming Visitors – USA Style – 2026
National Parks Hospitality & Goodwill Program
JFK speaks of presidential leadership and the role of the press in a free society.
Americans do not live in a free and honest society.
Possibly of interest:
Plan To Try And Celebrate – USA 250
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
For the Marines, the War on Terror began before 911
Take An Oath To The Constitution
Please let us know when Seattle area drug addicts have any difficulty finding their cartel product of choice:
Operation Macho Swagger – “CIA Squad Smashed Venezuela…”
The people of Alaska need services in the Middle East
Photo-
Hill Road
In The News
Brutal weekend for NFL officiating draws widespread scrutiny
by Grayce McCormick – The National News Desk
Mon, Dec 1, 2025
Think about American culture and sports. Americans know and care about the rules in sports. The rules are critical.
Coaches and quarterbacks face the press after every game and answer questions, win or lose.
No press secretary. No public relations spokesperson. No freedom of information act requests. No classified documents. Player stats and injury reports are always available.
Instant replays, commentary in the broadcast booth, analysis from network studios, sports talk radio, etc. Fans get tons of info all of the time. No chance for conspiracy theories to develop. Missed calls by NFL officials may be discussed for weeks on end. No such thing as: “We can’t comment on an ongoing investigation.” Instant replay is for all to see. Sports writers are OK with being critical of coaches, teams, players, the rule book, the league, referees, team owners, when the season starts and ends, etc. This is what a free and independent press looks like.
Coaches get fired for months of poor play.
Away From Sports Coverage
Newspeople and politicians are more about information suppression and not asking questions.
In recent years, the press tends to support government agencies, departments and policies rather than question them.
In government, it is fully understood that people will not have access to complete information through everyday channels.
Ever hear of a Freedom of Information Act Request in sports? How about a denied FOIA request?
Ever see a pro football coach or quarterback refer reporters to his press secretary for answers? Presidents do so on a daily basis. Professionals are hired to provide only the desired version of answers to questions.
Ever see a pro football coach or quarterback refer reporters to a public information officer for answers to questions?
JFK speaks about the role of the press in a free society:
Homeland Security Is A Scam
Love to see sports writers report on Homeland Security funding and performance.
Regular newspeople appear to be forbidden to ask questions in this area.
An enthusiastic report from the web:
CIA Squad Smashed Venezuela With Powerful Weapon, New Report Reveals
By David Hookstead – OutKick
Dec 30, 2025
“There is no sign indicating Trump plans on taking his foot off the gas when it comes to Venezuela and Maduro. The operations will continue, and our guys will continue to get the job done.”
Any Newsperson Anywhere
Please let us know when Seattle area drug addicts have any difficulty finding their cartel product of choice.
Any questions from newspeople?
Fake War on Terror – Borders Not Sealed
A fake War on Terror features a DEA that thrives on borders that are not sealed and the newspeople who avoid asking questions about all this.
Kristi Noem, REAL ID & Dept. of War Vietnam-style drug boat body counts fail to keep fentanyl from entering the US.
Just ask the DEA:
December 2025 – The Border Is Not Sealed
Compliant TV newspeople host the DEA for friendly interviews avoiding any mention of progress made by Kristi Noem or Dept. of War strikes on drug boats.
Border Not Sealed – Seattle DEA
In recent years, the press tends to support government agencies, departments and policies rather than question them.
Arizona DEA – Border Not Sealed
Texas – All Federal Efforts Fall Short
Again- Kristi Noem’s giant and expensive US Dept. of Homeland Security appears to be completely irrelevant here.
The post 911 surveillance state (fusion centers, license scanners, Homeland Security grant money, monitoring of e-mails, text messages, & social media sites, no fly/terror watch lists, tracking of cell phones, best advances in REAL ID and AI technologies, etc.) fails to keep fentanyl out:
Fentanyl still flooding the Valley as DEA pushes for 0 deaths
by: Jorge Vela KVEO News
Dec 19, 2025
“The Drug Enforcement Agency has launched a new nationwide initiative called Fentanyl Free America, aiming for zero deaths from the deadly synthetic drug as fentanyl seizures continue to rise across the country.”
“Fentanyl was also recently designated a weapon of mass destruction, a move that expands the DEA’s authority to combat trafficking.”
“Dr. Melendez said illegal fentanyl is now the leading cause of death for Americans between the ages of 18 and 45.”
Love to see newspeople ask:
More overdose deaths now, or before the giant and expensive US Dept. of Homeland Security was created back in 2002?
Texas Again – Dec 23, 2025
Newspeople play the role of DEA public affairs staff instead of asking questions in the promotional video below.
Zero questions Re: Kristi Noem’s giant and expensive US Dept. of Homeland Security.
Zero questions Re: Dept. of War Vietnam-style drug boat body counts.
Made for TV DEA spokesperson lets us know what to think:
Puget Sound Area
The Northwest High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area chases after cartel product not stopped at the border by Kristi Noem.
Will Northwest HIDTA be shut down when cartel drugs stop entering the US? Have recent US Dept. of Homeland Security efforts reduced the need for Northwest HIDTA services?
Has any community anywhere in the US downsized or shut down any local drug task force, or narcotics enforcement team due to the success of Dept. of War strikes on narcoterrorist drug boats?
Any questions from newspeople?
Related:
Operation Macho Swagger – “CIA Squad Smashed Venezuela…”
Port Angeles Homeland Security Spending Spree
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
For the Marines, the War on Terror began before 911
Take An Oath To The Constitution
TSA – Newspeople Refuse To Ask
Launching Strikes In The Region Since 1991 Desert Storm
Throwback Thursday – Port Angeles Drug War
The people of Alaska need services in the Middle East
Photo-
A symbol the free and independent press of 2025 and US newspeople not asking questions over the past 30 years or so.
Cliff Mass Weather Blog
Dec25, 2025
“Northwest drought is being exaggerated by a group including publicly funded agencies, the media, local government, and climate activists.
At its essence, it is ideological, anti-science, political, and self-serving.”
Above: Symbol of the 2025 version of constitutional limits placed on the federal government.
Pentagon drug boat strikes off the coast of Latin America
From the web:
“The Trump administration’s assault on alleged drug boats has killed about one person per day since early September. These are murders, and basic humanity demands that we not get complacent about them.”
The Watch
RADLEY BALKO
DEC 19, 2025
“Fentanyl isn’t produced in or trafficked through Venezuela. So these boats aren’t carrying fentanyl.”
From 2004
“Today, however, the Congress has relinquished its delegated powers, giving the President license to do whatever he and his office determine that they can get away with. Consequentially, the presidential and legislative oaths to the Constitution have just turned into a great photo op on inauguration day.”
“It is a sad and hard realization for a grunt who loves the Marine Corps to admit that the organization is not used in the preservation of liberty, and has not been used toward that end for a very long time.”
Source:
By Casey Khan
February 14, 2004
Macho Swagger
Watch Secretary of War Pete Hegseth takes thrilling fighter jet ride with ‘Top-Gun’ pilots:
Since 1986 Top Gun:
The US Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911.
We haven’t won a war since.
Decades after the lessons of Vietnam, it feels like the people who run the Pentagon specialize in undeclared/unwon wars. Is it understandable that young people and their parents and grandparents would take a dim view on all this?
Related:
Take An Oath To The Constitution
Drug boat body count & Whidbey increase in illegal drug activity
Drug Boat Body Count Irrelevant At Seattle?
Throwback Thursday – Port Angeles Drug War
Big Success With Undeclared Wars?
Port Angeles Homeland Security Spending Spree
Cliff Mass Weather Blog
Dec 16, 2025
“Drought during a period of flooding, moist soils, and above-normal reservoir levels.”
“During this fall wet season, most locations received MORE precipitation than usual.”
Above: Damon Point
The Constitution vs. the Commander-in-Chief
by John W. Whitehead
Dec 12, 2025
The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.
Look for newspeople and school teachers to ask zero questions in this area:
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Love to see newspeople interview elected officials and let us know how sending US Troops to Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia, etc., is somehow defending the constitution.
Podcast 9 Defending The Constitution?
From 2004
“Today, however, the Congress has relinquished its delegated powers, giving the President license to do whatever he and his office determine that they can get away with. Consequentially, the presidential and legislative oaths to the Constitution have just turned into a great photo op on inauguration day.”
“It is a sad and hard realization for a grunt who loves the Marine Corps to admit that the organization is not used in the preservation of liberty, and has not been used toward that end for a very long time.”
Source:
By Casey Khan
February 14, 2004
Related:
Take An Oath To The Constitution
No Fourth Amendment rights at the border?
Above: Occasionally looking for the Coupeville ferry
Coupeville/Penn Cove is on the eastern shore of Whidbey Island- no ferry link to Port Townsend exists there.
The era of newspeople not asking questions brings on private citizens who go out and ask questions.
Instead of waiting for school teachers to teach about individual rights and limited government authority, waiting on the press to ask questions, or courts to handle cases, these guys go out and update us with a quick reality check.
These guys were also never waiting on the overthrow of Saddam Hussein or the take down of any other bad guy in distant lands, as DOD defends the constitution, etc.
Operating A Camera In A Public Place
Flex Your Freedoms
Welcome Home Troops
Request for ID at 13:50
The Oak Bay Starfish Take
The press has failed.
Over the past 35 years or so, newspeople have failed in their role of investigating and asking questions related to public policy.
In a free and honest society, newspeople would ask questions.
In recent years, the press tends to support government agencies, departments and policies rather than question them.
School teachers have failed.
School teachers have failed in their role to teach about basic individual rights and limited government authority. If school teachers and the press did a proper job informing citizens on public photography, it would be seen as a much less controversial act.
The press is free to go and interview the people who have posted the public photography videos below.
School teachers are free to find the best of public photography videos and make lessons of them in class.
More here:
Operating A Camera In A Public Place
Above: A few years back. About this time of year – Whidbey Island.
Sorry, the contrived and newly-created peace prize by football’s governing body FIFA did not smooth things out over here.
In The News
Tourists to US would have to reveal five years of social media activity under new Trump plan
Chris Michael – The Guardian
Dec 10, 2025
“…US Customs and Border Protection agency (CBP) said it would also require any telephone numbers used by visitors over the same period, and any email addresses used in the last decade, as well as face, fingerprint, DNA and iris biometrics. It would also ask for the names, addresses, birthdates and birthplaces of family members, including children.”
“CBP claims the authority to search the devices of any prospective entrant to the US. Although entrants can refuse, they may then be denied entry.”
Somehow, Seattle area drug addicts still have no problem obtaining their cartel product of choice under these policies.
Want to visit Disneyland, The Grand Canyon, travel Route 66, attend an MLB game or visit bourbon distilleries?
Submit to requirements that replicate hiring on as a CIA employee. Plan to spend big bucks on a fun vacation and enjoy some American hospitality.
Welcome To Our Country – How To Play This
Do not question or criticize the policies of the US government or the policies of various foreign governments.
Make a daily effort to watch Karoline Leavitt and adapt whatever she says into your own speech, e-mails, text messages, social media posts, cell phone conversations, etc.
Congressman Mark Alford also sets the example on how to proceed:
Remember to advise all family members, including children to follow these same protocols for family travel to work out OK for next summer.
Trade, Travel and Friendship
Some might say trade, travel and friendship (as much as possible) are good for the economy. This approach may help to avoid misunderstandings and wars.
These folks do not work for the US federal government.
What others are saying:
U.S. Requires Social Strip-Search on Entry
Moon of Alabama
December 11, 2025
Related:
National Parks Hospitality & Goodwill Program
Post-911 Surveillance State Falls Short
Above: USMC Okinawa – 1980
Drug Boat Body Count Ops
Some might ask why these military operations were made public to begin with.
Operation Macho Swagger coming from a Dept. of War that wanted press organizations to sign agreements to work inside the Pentagon to keep the news under control.
The ops were initially made public maybe to take credit for results that had not yet been delivered. To make claims in advance that cartel product would be cut off from arriving in the 50 states.
Real Newspeople?
Real newspeople might ask:
Has any community anywhere in the US downsized or shut down any local drug task force, or narcotics enforcement team due to the success of Dept. of War strikes on narcoterrorist drug boats?
Any questions from newspeople?
When this trend kicks off, we’ll know that 2025 Vietnam-style drug boat body count ops matter in keeping cartel product from reaching drug addicts here at home.
More Questions
Is Kristi Noem’s giant and expensive US Dept. of Homeland Security completely irrelevant here?
Has the US Dept. of Homeland Security ever created any shortage of cartel product anywhere in the US?
Are the efforts of any federal agency or department causing local drug addicts to have any problem finding their cartel product of choice?
Is the Seattle fentanyl supply any different today than under Biden?
Homeland Security Is Ineffective In The Drug War
More than six months back, Kristi Noem deployed her ass kicking drug war road show.
March 20, 2025
Public Affairs efforts commence – the word goes out.
Cartels have been placed on notice.
Secretary of Homeland Security delivers no nonsense statements in the March 20, 2025 video posted below.
Tough Talk Before The Epstein Files Flip Flop
Below:
Pam Bondi and Kash Patel speak with confidence back before the flip flop on the Epstein files release.
All is well.
High levels of confidence in this businesslike event. Unfortunately, questions from the press were not picked up in the audio below.
April 9, 2025
The claim:
At 5:00 in the video above, the FBI director clams that various federal agencies will “…get all the drugs off the streets…”
“Almost 45,00 pounds of pure, uncut cocaine were seized and 3,800 pounds of marijuana, Bondi said.”
Under Kristi Noem
Cartels move product into all 50 states.
DEA High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas:
“…HIDTA-designated counties are located in 50 states…”
Welcome Home Troops. Thanks for doing time/risking your ass in Iraq and Afghanistan, working to keep a post 911 USA safe & secure.
Don’t worry-The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:
Welcome Home Troops
Common flashlight batteries are now locked up like diamond jewelry:
Kristi Noem is sealing off the border. Any day now, cartel drugs will no longer be available anywhere in WA.
People will no longer need cash to support a drug habit. There will be no more need to steal, and we can all go back to how things were in the last century.
Back to a time before the US Dept. of Homeland Security was established in 2002. This giant federal agency now has more than two decades of experience and lessons learned in working to prevent cartel product from entering the US. More overdose deaths now, or before DHS?
We’re not impressed.
Credibility squandered, enthusiasm dried up.
Macho Swagger
Watch Secretary of War Pete Hegseth takes thrilling fighter jet ride with ‘Top-Gun’ pilots:
Since 1986 Top Gun:
The US Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911.
We haven’t won a war since.
Decades after the lessons of Vietnam, it feels like the people who run the Pentagon specialize in undeclared/unwon wars. Is it understandable that young people and their parents and grandparents would take a dim view on all this?
Some Americans may be asking:
Did the advantage of US air power allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?
US jet aircraft have been able to strike targets in what wars won by the US?
The Press Has Failed
Over the past 35 years or so, newspeople have failed in their role of investigating and asking questions related to public policy.
In a free and honest society, newspeople would ask questions.
JFK speaks about the role of the press and voices of dissent in a free society:
Just Be Honest
This could be a slogan for government to live by, no matter what political party or personality is in power.
The US federal government has been involved in decades of various events where records were sealed or redacted and files were kept secret.
As the years went by, the public found out they were lied to.
Federal credibility is squandered over a period of decades. Now, people are scolded for wanting to be honestly informed on government activities. Well done. Something to get proud about.
Don’t lie to people and maybe they would be more patriotic.
Related:
Fentanyl Arrives In Grays Harbor County
Drug Boat Body Count Irrelevant At Seattle?
Throwback Thursday – Port Angeles Drug War
Take An Oath To The Constitution
Sound Publishing And Black Press Media