Archives for category: Federal Holidays
May 31, 2021 KUSI News video:
San Diegans reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day
1:20
“The True Cost of Freedom”
We are told by TV newspeople and politicians that we wouldn’t have our freedoms without those who died in wars. This blanket statement is a one size fits all. Whichever war. They’re all the same. We were there for freedom.
The idea that freedom comes from wars doesn’t seem to stand up to any discussion or questioning.
School teachers, maybe six months from now, please provide lessons in the classroom to explain how the price of freedom is related to wars fought by the US.
Here are a few questions and ideas to include in your lessons:
The Troops are often sent to distant lands to fight people who:
“…had never attacked the United States or even threatened to do so.”
May 27, 2021 Jacob G. Hornberger
The Lies of the National-Security State
May28, 2018 Jacob G. Hornberger
Memorial Day Is Based on a Lie
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?
School teachers, why do we speak of the US Armed Forces as if they function as some sort of giant civil rights organization?
Tomi Lahren video 0:11
“I’ve got loved ones overseas right now fighting for your right to sit on a bench…”
If The Troops fight for your right to sit, stand, kneel, etc.- why were black people still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory?
Tomi Lahren at 2:37
We have the freedom to enjoy a backyard BBQ because of undeclared/unwon wars that never end:
Glorification of military service / 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?
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
While the troops were deployed, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.
Can elected officials of any party or any member of the press 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
Sending US Troops to Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia, etc., is somehow defending the constitution?
What becomes of American rights and freedoms and the constitution when the US returns from distant lands without a victory?
Whatever happened to the formal congressional declaration of war?
This would be the time to hear from elected leaders and top generals Re: lessons learned on all the issues that have doomed the Department of Defense track record for winning wars since DOD was established in 1949.
Podcast 9 Defending The Constitution?
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
Do public schools still teach about Armistice Day?
The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.
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, 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 wars in distant lands.
Related:
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Appreciation For Alternative Viewpoints And Voices of Dissent
Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
Do Americans have an honest relationship with the US Armed Forces?
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog
Photo-
On watch at Fort Ebey
Local info:
This weekend.
Get on down to the dealership.
August 26, 2011 James Bovard
Memorial Day Reflections and Revisionism
The Troops are often sent to distant lands to fight people who:
“…had never attacked the United States or even threatened to do so.”
May 27, 2021 Jacob G. Hornberger
The Lies of the National-Security State
May28, 2018 Jacob G. Hornberger
Memorial Day Is Based on a Lie
JFK speaks about the role of the press and voices of dissent in a free society:
Ideas for additional reading:
My blog:
Do Americans have an honest relationship with the US Armed Forces?
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Armistice Day – Six Months Out
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog
Photo-
Plenty of lonely beach out there.
North of Perego’s Lagoon, looking towards Fort Ebey.
Local info:
May 27, 2021 Los Angeles Daily News
A prayer, a salute and a thank you on Memorial Day for those who fought to secure our freedoms
Random thoughts:
Interesting that WWII is used as a justification for war, but no comment is made on the undeclared/unwon wars that followed.
The Dept. of Defense did not exist until 1949.
The free and well armed people who populate the North American continent could be forced by people in military uniforms to pledge allegiance to a flag not of their choosing?
“Gather around kids, I want to talk to you about Memorial Day.”
Interesting that the focus is on children. Maybe this is because they see the speaker/writer as an authority figure and will not question the message. Our questions appear in bold type.
While the troops were deployed, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.
Can elected officials of any party or any member of the press 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.”
“…a mean, crazed man named Hitler who wanted to take over the world.”
Please see Operation Sea Lion.
FDR
Answering his call to arms? 10 million were drafted in WWII.
June 24, 2020 Jacob G. Hornberger
The “Greatest” Generation’s Refusal to Fight the “Good War”
“According to the website of the National WWII Museum, 38.8% (6,332,000) men were volunteers in World War II while 61.2% (11,535,000) were draftees.”
WWII
If the troops were fighting for American rights and freedoms-why were black people still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII 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?
Glorification of military service / 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?
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.
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, 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 wars in distant lands.
Sending US Troops to Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia, etc., is somehow defending the constitution?
What becomes of American rights and freedoms and the constitution when the US returns from distant lands without a victory?
Whatever happened to the formal congressional declaration of war?
This would be the time to hear from elected leaders and top generals Re: lessons learned on all the issues that have doomed the Department of Defense track record for winning wars since DOD was established in 1949.
Podcast 9 Defending The Constitution?
Related:
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
Do Americans have an honest relationship with the US Armed Forces?
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
May28, 2018 Jacob G. Hornberger
Memorial Day Is Based on a Lie
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog
An occaision of deep religious significance.
A time to enjoy, even for people who are not religious.
Maybe it’s a day for family traditions. A day for generations to gather. A day for kids to have fun. A day to reflect on a new season.
Unlike Christmas, there seems to be little marketing pressure from retailers. Christmas merchandise begins to go up in stores in late August. Easter is more of a take it or leave it event. No scolding about what to say when exchanging Easter greetings. No obligation to make a gift list. Not a federal holiday. No need for a giant government to pretend to play a role here.
No unusually crowded stores, shipping outlets or ferry and air terminals because of Easter.
Good Stuff.
Related:
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
The End of the Holiday Season is Here
Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
A few years back – Skagit Valley
Requesting permission from a giant federal government to celebrate independence from a giant federal government update:
Mar 15, 2021 Fox News Video
Gov. Kristi Noem to keep fighting for July 4th fireworks at Mount Rushmore after feds deny request
As the months go by, we can see that there is a list of things the government is not very good at. Is this list bigger than a list of the things government does well?
Alternative media is OK with asking these sorts of questions. Mainstream media seems to avoid reporting on various topics.
Newspeople play the role of federal public affairs staff as authorities prepare for the Super Bowl.
We are the very best at militarized pageantry for pro sports events.
Sorry, no time for newspeople to ask:
Did the advantage of US air power allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?
US fighter jet aircraft have been able to strike targets in what wars won by the US?
The Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911.
We haven’t won a war since.
The Dept. of Defense has a truly poor track record for winning undeclared wars since DOD was established way back in 1949.
Who are the Patriots on the Fourth?
by Jacob G. Hornberger
“On the Fourth of July, American statists will be praising the troops, glorifying their exploits in foreign countries, thanking them for defending our rights and freedoms, and expressing thanks to federal officials for taking care of them with Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, education grants, farm subsidies, drug laws, and the myriad other programs that come with America’s welfare-warfare state.”
“First, let’s get one thing clear: contrary to popular opinion, the men who signed the Declaration of Independence were not great and courageous Americans. That’s an important fact to keep in mind. The reason? They weren’t Americans. They were British citizens, no different from British citizens today. The only difference was that they were living abroad, much as many American citizens live abroad today.”
“Thus, the people who were fighting in the Revolutionary War were not supporting the troops. They weren’t thanking and glorifying them for defending their rights and freedoms. Instead, they were shooting at them and killing them. They had taken up arms against their very own government.”
Related:
Most And Least Meaningful Federal Holidays
Soviet-Style Militarized Pageantry Update
Soviet Style Military Flyovers
Why Do Americans Celebrate Pretend Freedom and Independence on July 4th?
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
4 Stories The Puget Sound Press Will Not Question Or Report On
Some Veterans See Nonveterans As Second-Class Citizens?
Port Angeles – Stay in your homes and wait for further instructions.
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
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.
A society where voices of dissent are not authorized.
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?
Sending US Troops to Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia, etc., is somehow defending the constitution?
What becomes of American rights and freedoms and the constitution when the US returns from distant lands without a victory?
Whatever happened to the formal congressional declaration of war?
Podcast 9 Defending The Constitution?
Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
A symbol of newspeople who fail to ask what the major political parties stand for or believe in.
Even during a long election season.
What are your favorite Presidents Day traditions?
Some federal holidays have little meaning. Some are quite meaningful. People may have different feelings about each one. How you felt in the third grade may be different from how you feel now.
New Year’s Day
May be a fun time based on your personal traditions. May be a good time to grasp a feeling of starting over or making plans for the new year.
Any meaning in connection with the US federal government or US history?
Martin Luther King Day
One of the very most meaningful to me, based on US history and his teachings of non-violent civil disobedience.
Presidents Day
Meaningful if you are in the third grade. Much less meaningful as time goes on. When I was in the third grade, this history had not been established:
Six US Presidents have now had their hands on the wheel in Iraq
February 5, 2021 KARE 11
St. Cloud-based National Guard aviators deploying to Kuwait and Iraq
Will there ever come a time when newspeople ask if there is any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war, linked to the movement of National Guard troops to an overseas location?
Memorial Day
Very meaningful. Could be more meaningful if the observance included an Armistice Day component. The idea that the troops are sent to distant lands to defend American rights and freedoms seems to be the primary theme.
If politicians were serious about Memorial Day they would insist on a formal congressional declaration of war before sending The Troops into action.
If Politicians Were Serious About Memorial Day…
Juneteenth
9:16
A US President who never mentioned Juneteenth in any speech during 8 years in office:
4th of July or Independence Day
Historically meaningful. Today, it’s a big celebration staged by a country that is not free. The day may be used to give thanks to veterans for defending American rights and freedoms in distant lands.
The Presidents of Presidents Day sign off on stuff like this:
While the troops were deployed, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.
Can elected officials of any party or any member of the press help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here:
Dec 21, 2019 KOMO News
Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide
July 4, 2014
Libertarians Are the Real Fourth of July Patriots
“…the signers of the Declaration of Independence, which we celebrate today, opposed everything the U.S. government represents today, including big government, standing armies, militarism, and empire.”
“…the revolutionaries in 1776 were not supporting their troops after the issuance of the Declaration of Independence. They were instead killing the soldiers of their very own government.”
July 4, 2018 Laurence M. Vance
“Patriotism is now equated with profound admiration for the military. It doesn’t matter what where the troops go, how long they stay, what they do when they are there, whether they should go, why they go, or how much it costs to keep them there.”
Labor Day
Meaningful for some, based on an understanding of the American labor movement. For many, just a day off, or a day for wondering why there is not a federal holiday for people who graduate from high school or one for people who get married.
Columbus Day
One of the very least meaningful. Columbus never set foot in what is today the 50 US states.
Veterans Day
One of the very most meaningful for some. Stolen from Armistice Day in the 1950s. At that time, the US Dept. of Defense had started a decades long tradition of not being able to stay out of or win undeclared wars in distant lands.
Today, Armistice Day is free chow day.
Meet a veteran who isn’t shy about going out & grabbing a couple free meals-it’s a proud thing:
The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.
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.
Goodbye Armistice Day – Free Meals, Deals and Discounts
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Thanksgiving Day
One of the very most meaningful. A time to give thanks for what is important in your life.
The elementary school lessons about friendly relations with Indians who were later slaughtered by the US government are questionable.
Christmas Day
A holiday of great religious significance.
Somehow linked to the US federal government or US history? Not too sure about that.
For me, I look at 365 days a year as the time to do more or less in terms of what we think is meaningful in life. Things that are meaningful are on our mind all the time. They are not saved up for a special day on the calendar.
Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
The beer photo fetish.
A year round tradition, not linked with any special day on the calendar.
Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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.
Jun 7, 2020 The Free Press
DUTY CALLS: Local National Guard unit heading to Africa
Life wasn’t meant to change after the big Saddam Hussein & Osama bin Laden takedowns.
Operation Enduring Freedom:
“Both deployments are part of Operation Enduring Freedom, the now-19-year-old attempt to quell terrorism launched in response to the 9/11 attacks.”
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.”
Port Angeles, WA
Big July 4th celebration update:
June 15, 2020 Peninsula Daily News
Port Angeles to livestream fireworks July 4
“Fireworks will burst in the air above Port Angeles Harbor on the Fourth of July this year, but the Port Angeles Chamber of Commerce is urging residents to view the show online or from their yards rather than in a large gathering downtown.”
“But this year’s new normal will include a never-before-seen addition: a Heroes Appreciation Wall in front of the shuttered Lincoln Theater at 132 E. First St.”
“However, the committee has found that contingency plans must be invoked to conform to safe practices guidelines and has updated its plans and activities that would have involved large gatherings are cancelled.”
Interesting how different communities plan similar events.
Jonesboro Arkansas
June 15, 2020 KAIT
Freedom Fest fireworks display set for July 4th
The annual Freedom Fest Fireworks Display will be held Saturday, July 4, at the Southside Softball Complex in Jonesboro.
The event, according to a news release, has been described as “the biggest free fireworks display in the state” of Arkansas.”
Who are the Patriots on the Fourth?
by Jacob G. Hornberger
“On the Fourth of July, American statists will be praising the troops, glorifying their exploits in foreign countries, thanking them for defending our rights and freedoms, and expressing thanks to federal officials for taking care of them with Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, education grants, farm subsidies, drug laws, and the myriad other programs that come with America’s welfare-warfare state.”
“First, let’s get one thing clear: contrary to popular opinion, the men who signed the Declaration of Independence were not great and courageous Americans. That’s an important fact to keep in mind. The reason? They weren’t Americans. They were British citizens, no different from British citizens today. The only difference was that they were living abroad, much as many American citizens live abroad today.”
“Thus, the people who were fighting in the Revolutionary War were not supporting the troops. They weren’t thanking and glorifying them for defending their rights and freedoms. Instead, they were shooting at them and killing them. They had taken up arms against their very own government.”
More here:
Port Angeles – Stay in your homes and wait for further instructions.
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Why Do Americans Celebrate Pretend Freedom and Independence on July 4th?
A Fictional Militarized Version of Freedom
Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Soviet-Style Militarized Pageantry Update
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
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
All over the US, faux July 4th celebrations of freedom & liberty were the norm, even before the current news Re: COVID-19.
Since last July 4th:
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.”
Port Angeles
In the news:
June 15, 2020 Peninsula Daily News
Port Angeles to livestream fireworks July 4
“Fireworks will burst in the air above Port Angeles Harbor on the Fourth of July this year, but the Port Angeles Chamber of Commerce is urging residents to view the show online or from their yards rather than in a large gathering downtown.”
“But this year’s new normal will include a never-before-seen addition: a Heroes Appreciation Wall in front of the shuttered Lincoln Theater at 132 E. First St.”
“However, the committee has found that contingency plans must be invoked to conform to safe practices guidelines and has updated its plans and activities that would have involved large gatherings are cancelled.”
Since last July 4th
Halloween too:
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.”
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.
When I was a child in the 1970s, local authorities and elected officials played no role in telling families when trick or treating would begin or end.
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
More here:
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Why Do Americans Celebrate Pretend Freedom and Independence on July 4th?
A Fictional Militarized Version of Freedom
Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Soviet-Style Militarized Pageantry Update
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- Please Dispose of Properly
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
Spirits are on the rise. A season of expectation, overscheduling, emotion, obligation, memories, deadlines, marketing, advertising, programming, photo moments, and unusually crowded stores, shipping outlets, ferry and air terminals comes to a close.
How many Friday and Saturday evenings are there in December? Hurry and take a look because holiday and office parties, tree lighting events, etc., will need to be fit in somewhere.
Ready, Set, Go!
Almost a cultural peer pressure that sets up many people to try to do the same thing at the same time, now becomes a time of doing more or less with life because it’s meaningful, not because the calendar says so.
Never here to take away from others what is meaningful to them, just an urge to duck out all year long and be somewhere near the slow lane.
Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
Looking north towards the Ebey’s Landing Bluff Trail
July 4th – Independence Day
The government can’t tell us what to do! We Celebrate Revolution!
Columbus Day
We honor those who set sail to discover the new world.
We’re all about risk taking and a spirit of adventure that later brought us the first airplane flight and the first man on the moon in 1969.
Halloween
Stay in your homes and wait for further instructions.
In the news:
Gallipolis, Ohio
Still six weeks out and 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.”
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.
Fore more about safety, please visit our safety tips page:
Rochester, Wisconsin
Sunday, Oct. 27
1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
New Middletown, Ohio
Trick or Treat: Oct. 31, from 6-7 p.m.
Reedsville, Ohio
Trick or Treat: Thursday October 24, 6 – 7 p.m.
Bayside, Wisconsin
Halloween 2019: Milwaukee area trick-or-treat times
Bayside: Sunday, Oct. 27, 1-4 p.m.
Washington County, Wisconsin
Halloween trick-or-treat for communities across Washington County
New Boston, Ohio
New Boston sets Trick or Treat night
“Loper then the read the final Resolution No.10-2019 a resolution establishing October 31 as Trick or Treat in the Village of New Boston, with the times being the same as last year – motion made by Ottney and seconded by Mills and then passed by council. The meeting was adjourned.”
Amesbury, Massachusetts
“Several years ago, Police Chief Cronin decided to keep Trick or Treat on Oct. 31 each year; in Amesbury children should plan to be canvassing neighborhoods between 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursday Oct. 31. Times may vary slightly in neighboring communities and some towns observe trick or treat on another day, so check with your local police department or watch The Daily News in the upcoming weeks.”
When I was a child in the 1970s, local authorities and elected officials played no role in telling families when trick or treating would begin or end.
Related:
Local Authorities Work to Crush Halloween
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
In the news:
May 24, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Letter: Please put ‘Civility First’ Memorial Day weekend
“…we honor the memories of those who died protecting our freedom…”
May 24, 2019 WSFA 12 News
‘It’s not about picnics’: A war widow has a message for Americans on Memorial Day
“Now Rachel wants Americans to know that Memorial Day isn’t just a day off work, or a time to party with friends. It’s a solemn day to remember those who have given their lives for our freedom.”
“It’s not a day to have a picnic. It’s the day to remember those who have given their lives so we can have a picnic. I see the flags flying half mast and this is a way we show them we remember,” she says.
US foreign policy goals and objectives are mapped out at the very highest levels of government.
Ask yourself- is there someone at the table- in those high level planning sessions- who makes sure that military operations overseas include a mission to protect American rights and freedoms?
Does someone make sure the mission is to defend the constitution?
Is there anyone who verifies that the mission is to protect our physical security?
May 26, 2019, The Associated Press
Mike Pence: West Point grads should expect to see combat
“Vice President Mike Pence told the most diverse graduating class in the history of the U.S. Military Academy on Saturday that the world is “a dangerous place” and they should expect to see combat.”
“Some of you will join the fight against radical Islamic terrorists in Afghanistan and Iraq.”
Life wasn’t meant to change after the big Saddam Hussein & Osama bin Laden takedowns:
May 23, 2019 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Wisconsin National Guard soldiers return home from 10-month deployment in time for Memorial Day
The people of Wisconsin needed services in “…15 locations spread across Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Jordan, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.”
U.S. service members are now stationed in 170+ countries overseas.
Same country that will stage a big celebration of smaller/limited government on July 4th.
Congressman Derek Kilmer
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?
January 7, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Boeing reaches out to help military members and their families
Do the folks who reach out to help military members and their families also advocate for phasing out undeclared/unwon wars that never end?
The Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars goes back to 1949.
“This Memorial Day, spare us the flyover jets, flag-wielding honor guards, and other patriotic mush of 21st-century popular culture. Instead, I’d submit that now—after 18 years of endless, ineffective war—it’s a time for nuance, for a collective national self-assessment.”
Danny Sjursen – A retired U.S. Army Major
“At professional sports events, the once-modest singing of the national anthem has been overshadowed by flyovers from fighter jets, field-sized flags and uniformed troops on parade. Airport loudspeakers blare expressions of gratitude for the troops, and flight attendants call attention to uniformed military members aboard planes.”
The best way America can honor its fallen soldiers is to create fewer of them
Danny Sjursen – A retired U.S. Army Major
May 25, 2019 KDKA-TV News – CBS Pittsburgh
Deals, Discounts And Freebies: Memorial Day Discounts For Veterans
May 24, 2019 USA Today
Free food and Memorial Day deals for active military and veterans Monday
We’re the very best at symbolism.
Possibly of interest:
Armistice Day Is Now Free Chow Day
U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom
Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom
Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips
Military Town – Hometown Pride
Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville
Legal marijuana, concealed carry of handguns, semi automatic rifle sales, federal minimum drinking age, bump stock ban, interracial marriage, gay marriage, tobacco sales, voting rights, etc.
None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.
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?
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo- Big Driftwood at Fort Ebey
Jun 5th, 2018 PBS News Hour:
WATCH: Trump holds ‘Celebration of America’ event after withdrawing invite to Philadelphia Eagles
The military is overemphasized in American culture.
The Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911. We haven’t won a war since.
We’re told to thank The Troops for defending American rights and freedoms in Iraq & Afghanistan.
Undeclared/unwon wars that never end?
0:24
The purpose is to protect our freedoms:
We are living in a land of make believe.
In the coming weeks we’ll have a big celebration of freedom & independence based on the founding of this country.
Jacob G. Hornberger reminds us that the people who founded this country “…didn’t want a strong, powerful, centralized government.”
2:07
Why not cancel the National Anthem and militarized pageantry at sporting events?
More here:
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
People in need should be able to get assistance.
Tax money- which some people intend to be used to help others via public assistance programs– also goes for bombing Iraq and Afghanistan. US bombing of Iraq goes back to 1991.
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.
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 failed wars that never end. The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.
Are federal public assistance programs working?
Summer feeding programs have been set up to provide meals when school is out.
Summer Meal Program Information
Summer feeding program continues to grow in Peoria
“We’ve gone from 2,000 to 3,000 meals all summer five years ago to 65,000 meals this summer,” he said. The program ends Aug. 4.
Baltimore Co. schools serving free meals this summer:
Coupeville School District
Love to see newspeople ask: If a family qualifies for free and reduced price school breakfast and lunch- wouldn’t they also qualify for year-round public assistance to provide meals at home? Would this reduce the need for summer feeding programs?
USDA Federal School Lunch Program- Virgin Islands:
Find us on facebook:
Veterans Against the Glorification of Military Service
High levels of reverence for the flag?
Meanwhile, Heroin-Trafficking Cartels Move Product into Washington State
Newspeople will not question the US Border Patrol at Port Angeles?
Our free and independent press has stopped asking questions.
and Sound of Freedom
Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo- Please Dispose of Properly
Would it be possible to have HOAs enact rules to prevent the improper disposal of items bearing a likeness of the American flag?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
How about an opt in/out pass to pay for decades of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands?
U.S. gives Iraq a $2.7 billion credit to buy military equipment
Similar items posted daily on facebook at:
Newspeople will not question the US Border Patrol at Port Angeles?
Our free and independent press has stopped asking questions.
and Sound of Freedom
Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
At least there won’t be any guilt trips about just seeing it as a long weekend.
Bonus- Free admission to federal lands you paid for the same as the wars in Iraq & Afghanistan.
Photo- Point Hudson
New group identity for veterans-
Go and see how much free stuff you can get this weekend.
Veteran’s Day 2014:
Huge number of comments Re: what sort of ID is proper to get free & discounted stuff-
Where are the veterans who don’t want free meals, discounts, head of the line privileges at the airport, etc.
Meet some veterans who have become disgruntled Re: discount availability:
“Home Depot No Longer Honors all Veterans”
Well done guys.
The Veteran’s Day federal holiday was signed into law during the Cold War.
The US had then entered into a long period of involvement in undeclared/unwon wars overseas.
Hey school teachers– if the wars aren’t won- how can they protect our freedom?
Hey school teachers- whatever happened to the more meaningful Armistice Day?
Related:
Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips
Fought and died to defend our freedom?
Press, military, entertainment industry & big business partnership
Ongoing militarization of American culture: Troops on the street?
Discuss on facebook here:
Photo- South Indian Island
Why Do We Keep Thanking the Troops?
Rory Fanning
Starbucks Chairman Howard Schultz has said of the upcoming Concert for Valor:
“The post-9/11 years have brought us the longest period of sustained warfare in our nation’s history. The less than one percent of Americans who volunteered to serve during this time have afforded the rest of us remarkable freedoms—but that freedom comes with a responsibility to understand their sacrifice, to honor them and to appreciate the skills and experience they offer when they return home.”
Since 911- US military operations have afforded the rest of us remarkable freedoms?
Because freedom comes from decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas, a 3rd try in Iraq, a no-show on 911, etc.
Almost Veteran’s Day again-
Look for folks claiming that Americans wouldn’t have the freedom to post comments on newspaper websites if people had not given their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan to protect that freedom.
Hey school teachers- where did this idea come from? Were US troops sent to Vietnam so that Americans could be free to send letters to the editor?
Is there any case in which the US Armed Forces have been sent to distant lands on a mission to protect freedom of speech?
Is protecting freedom of speech even part of training scenarios?
Reaching for an honest understanding of US foreign policy makes more sense than “Thanks for your service.”
Don’t look for much in the way of explaining the meaning of Armistice Day & why that was thrown out for the purpose of honoring veterans.
More here:
Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips
Discuss on facebook here:
Photo- A symbol of freedom & federal government credibility
Just days after the nation celebrated Independence- someone gets caught with marijuana at a federal campground inside Washington State.
“A man called KING 5 to say he had pot confiscated and was ticketed while camping with friends. It happened when a ranger came by to check on their campfire. The ranger noticed the group had a small amount of marijuana.
The camper said he purchased it legally, but because he was on federal land the viewer said the pot was confiscated and that he got a $125 ticket.”
Click here to view authoritarian comments from people who are all about federal law even though they probably were up for celebrating independence on July 4th.
Favorite comment:
“Its federal land. Just like the Military bases.”
Maybe American culture would be easier to understand if all of the US was one giant military base.
It took a constitutional amendment to prohibit the sale of a glass of wine- why no constitutional amendment to authorize a federal war on drugs, drug czar, prohibition of marijuana, etc.
Same country where half time sports announcers remind us that The Troops are fighting undeclared/unwon wars overseas in order to defend your rights and freedoms.
Discuss on facebook here:
Photo- Summer on Whidbey Island
Our buyers inspect and select only the leanest cuts of meat for the grill-
In the 60s and 70s there were war protests. Today, a university tells us that the troops defend freedom.
More here: Glorifying military service
Discuss on facebook here:
These are the folks who watch the TV networks that host presidential debates & ask scripted questions of candidates.
These are the folks who listen to TV messages from halftime sports announcers who tell us that overseas military operations are somehow linked to American rights and freedoms.
These are the folks who vote.
Related:
Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips
Honor your heroes this weekend
Discuss on facebook here.
Photo- Nordland Transit Center
By being a good consumer-
Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend and Honor our very own Hometown Heroes!
By reaching for an honest understanding of US foreign policy.
By waiting until the TV isn’t talking about federal holidays, overseas military operations and football halftime ceremonies– then asking yourself if you live in a free and honest society.
By waiting a few months- then asking questions at public schools about those who claim that Americans wouldn’t have the freedom to post comments on newspaper websites if people had not given their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan to protect that freedom.
Hey school teachers- where did this idea come from? Were US troops sent to Vietnam so that Americans could be free to send letters to the editor?
Is there any case in which the US Armed Forces have been sent to distant lands on a mission to protect freedom of speech?
Is protecting freedom of speech even part of training scenarios?
Possibly of interest:
Related:
Discuss on facebook here.
Photo- Low tide
South entrance- Port Townsend Ship Canal
Insists on dividing people up into groups– then assigning a separate value to each group.
Cheers on military forces that are not in the habit of winning decades of undeclared wars in distant lands.
Credits The Troops with defending American rights and freedoms- as if the US Armed Forces function as some sort of giant civil rights organization.
Stopped supporting a draft a long time ago.
Spends money on gunboat escorts for ferries on Puget Sound while terrorists are free to put their boat on a trailer and drive it onto the ferry.
Spends months promoting the idea of buying stuff to celebrate Christmas.
Brags about freedom- then goes with a control freak approach on individual liberty.
Lies about the stories associated with federal holidays.
Celebrates independence from a powerful central government.
Tries to make people feel guilty for not properly observing some federal holidays.
Talks about legalizing marijuana while including restrictions that leave prohibition and the drug war in place for adults age 18-20, those who want to grow a plant at home, possess more than an ounce, or possess marijuana from non-state sanctioned outlets.
Talks about placing high taxes on legal marijuana.
Dealers, traffickers and cartels are good with this idea.
Supports a Homeland Security police state that can’t keep heroin and cocaine out of the US.
Tolerates reporters who do not ask questions.
Tolerates politicians who lie about clean energy.
Supports a Drug War that places us all at risk.
Photo- Port Hadlock Transit Center
Veterans Day is for honoring veterans. Memorial Day is for honoring those who died in wars. Sept 11th is for honoring the victims and heroes of 911- a time to remember how the nation pulled together in the days following the event.
Commenting on newspaper web editions-
The story has to do with the tenth anniversary of 911, a large number of troops lost in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan, or a federal park ranger gunned down in Washington State. Many comments asking for or offering prayers for the families who have suffered a loss, etc. (praying to the same god who watched over as the tragedy unfolded?) Someone posts a public policy question or comment related to the story-
“This isn’t the place for your political views, we don’t want to hear your comments about the war, or gun control, have some respect for the families, this is not the time”, etc.
Hey folks- this is a news site- not a church service. I would never scold anyone for offering prayers- why the effort to suppress ideas?
Troop suicides.
Multiple National Guard deployments to distant lands- absent any military emergency, draft, or declaration of war.
A Homeland Security police state that can’t keep heroin and cocaine out of the US.
Grand opening of a $9.8 million, 50 agent US Border Patrol station at Port Angeles- access restricted “only to media with credentials and invited guests”
The time never seems right for answers to serious public policy questions.
Photo- Kitty litter scoop for popcorn at dive bar.
Letter printed in the Kitsap Sun:
LETTER TO THE EDITOR | Join federal workers in celebrating the Fourth of July
Letter printed in the Bellingham Herald:
If you take the second sentence and enter it in a search engine- you can see that the same letter appeared all over the U.S.
The first letter prompted me to post this:
Celebrate your independence by honoring federal workers-
Photo- pre-tsunami debris scene on the Washington Coast
BBQ Safety Crackdown-
Check out the overly dramatic intro on this video designed to prevent backyard mayhem-
Worst case scenarios of fireworks abuse may result in severe injuries and property damage-
Stray bullet in Belfair wrecking yard ignites 2 cities’ worth of fireworks
First responders forced to pose at dumbed-down fireworks safety photo-op-
Family thrown into instant war zone-
Lit firecrackers in your pants at 0:21
If the video demonstrated the most dangerous things we could do with a gallon of gas- would that mean we should stay away from gasoline?
Lesson- Don’t duct tape an M-80 to your hand. Don’t stiffen your body and hold it over an aerial device for an extended period of time-
Scare tactic video featuring a simulated human head- held for an extended period of time over a fountain.
No option or possibility that fireworks might be used responsibly. All risk taking is bad- guaranteed to result in worst case scenarios.
Dr. Poindexter recommends attending professional shows only. There is no possibility that your family could safely use fireworks- got it?
Expect more injuries, death and maiming-
Setting off firecrackers on the ground sends a convincing message of doom-
Don’t do this-
Blowing up your own watermelon could be deadly-
Use glow sticks-
Bonus retro page I created a couple years ago here.
Discuss on facebook here:
Photo- Summer sunset at Fort Flagler
A local letter writer suggests sort of a Thanksgiving Day for federal workers on July 4th this year-
LETTER TO THE EDITOR | Join federal workers in celebrating the Fourth of July
A salute to federal workers out at the airport:
Grandpa’s ashes scattered at TSA checkpoint
A salute to a federal Drug Czar & all subordinate employees-
A salute to federal workers who monitor family farms and dairies-
A salute to all federal employees associated with The War on Terror-
A salute to federal workers serving the US Department of Homeland Security-
Video collection- DHS checkpoints
Gunboat escorts on Puget Sound
Suspicionless local ID checks?
Secret arrest statistics & the warehousing of Border Patrol agents at Port Angeles
Independence Day essays here and here