About time to get back out there.
Today’s beer glass comes to us from Big Block Brewery & Taproom.
Looking good guys.
Mixed messages running strong.
Island County
June 9, 2020 Whidbey News-Times
County may ask to move to Phase 3 next week
“Island County Public Health Director Keith Higman told commissioners at a meeting last week that the county can make the request as early as June 13.”
“Under Phase 3, restrictions meant to prevent the spread of COVID-19 will be further loosened. Gatherings of up to 50 people will be allowed, restaurants can move to 75 percent capacity, bars can open at 25 percent and movie theaters can open at 50 percent capacity.”
I went to the US Post Office in Oak Harbor earlier today to take care of some business inside at the customer service desk. Only 7 people are allowed in that part of the building, so the waiting line begins out in the area adjacent to where the PO boxes are located. When it was my turn to go in, I was asked if I had a mask. I said I did not have one. A nice lady in line ahead of me gave me one.
Never saw anything in our local paper about masks being required at the post office. Did I miss it?
Jefferson County
Over in Jefferson County, they got the word out:
May 29, 2020 Port Townsend Leader
“Public Health Officer Tom Locke issued a masking directive May 28 requiring all individuals in Jefferson County to wear face coverings over their noses and mouths when they are at indoor and outdoor public locations and cannot maintain a 6-foot distance from others.”
Thank you Port Townsend Leader, for keeping your comment section open.
Island County
June 5, 2020 Whidbey News-Times
Commissioner says governor’s new mask rule defies basic science, logic
“…beginning June 8, nearly all employees in the state will be required to wear a cloth facial covering or face mask, except when working alone in an office, vehicle or job site.”
Jefferson County
June 10, 2020 Port Townsend Leader
Ferry schedules on reduced service until further notice
My understanding is that the Port Townsend Keystone route runs only one boat in the winter and two in the summer.
Island county is now headed towards Phase 3?
How does it help anyone or any situation to stay on a winter/one boat schedule?
Related:
Whidbey Island
Over at the State Park: Shut Off The TV And Get Outside For A Bit
Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.
Pizza delivery, marijuana and booze sales roll on as government agencies phase out access and services.
Local press responds with reduced coverage and less in the way of asking questions.
Concealed Carry Processing Suspended
Mixed Messages On What Is An Emergency
Looks like Sound Publishing has removed all old comments and shut down the opportunity to post new comments on all of their newspaper web editions?
Manage it, don’t ban it. Online comment sections
Recommendations to bring in more subscribers:
Ready to Support Local News on Whidbey Island
I feel like a man on the moon in 1969 was a proud American moment.
Since that time, both major parties have taken turns in power and have squandered credibility that would help in the current situation.
We were told we needed to send troops to Vietnam to stay safe.
Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, etc.
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Stay-at-home, except when purchasing liquor up until 9 p.m.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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Keystone Ferry – Inbound
Coupeville/Penn Cove is on the eastern shore of Whidbey Island-no ferry link to Port Townsend exists there.
Possibly of interest:
Occasionally Looking for the Coupeville Ferry
Ferry Traffic Leaving Coupeville Terminal Routed Away From Coupeville
Image above: 6/10/2020
Source: Washington State Department of Health Shellfish Safety Map
In the news:
June 9, 2020 South Whidbey Record
Cost of septic pumping to increase in Island County
“They have been talking to officials at the Town of Coupeville about the possibility of a temporary sewage-related partnership. The proposal is for the town to treat the county’s supernatant, which is a clear liquid byproduct of sewage treatment that requires further treatment before it can be discharged.”
Looks like two sewage treatment plants are already sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?
Number one:
Coupeville – just west of Captain Thomas Coupe Park
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
Number two:
North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
Several Island County beaches are now closed for recreational shellfish harvest because of sewage treatment outfall.
Sewage treatment outfall. Not stormwater.
This appears to be a routine/ongoing situation.
View the Washington State Department of Health beach list here.
Coupeville site visit 4/2/2020:
Back in 2017, Island County Public Health posted a sign at the Coupeville Wharf about restrictions on recreational shellfish harvesting.
Why no warning sign on 4/2/2020?
Three reasons why it looks like a warning sign should still be posted:
1 On 4/2/2020 the Washington State Department of Health tells us that this is not a safe location for recreational shellfish harvest: Shellfish Safety Map
Image above: April 2nd, 2020
Source: Washington State Department of Health Shellfish Safety Map
2 WDFW tells us that this is not a safe location for recreational shellfish harvest:
3 The sign posted at the west end of Penn Cove by WDFW tells us that this is not a safe location for recreational shellfish harvest.
Image above:
Coupeville
Another Month With An R at Captain Thomas Coupe Park – Site Visit
Love to see newspeople provide updated reporting on this:
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
Image above:
North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing
Site Visit – Another Month With An R at Monroe Landing
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
Is the sewage treatment plant sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?
Reporting on this topic appears to be completely off limits to the press.
Image above:
I found this sign posted on 4/2/2020 at the west end of Penn Cove. The sign has been there long enough to become faded from the weather.
WDFW has posted this permanent sign showing a dark shaded area in the eastern part of Penn Cove. The dark shaded area indicates a location that is unsafe for clam & oyster harvest.
Interesting that the part of the cove farthest from open waters is the part where the water is cleaner.
This sign remains in place even during the driest months of the year.
March 13, 2020 Whidbey News-Times
4th grade students publish book on Salish Sea
“Invisible Pollution in the Salish Sea”
School teachers,
Are you teaching your students to look for green colors on the Recreational Shellfish Safety Map?
More here:
Green colors show safe places for recreational shellfish
Distance learning idea:
Podcast 4 Another Month With An R – Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfalls
Whidbey Waters – Mixed Signals of Concern
Related:
Whidbey Signs of Water Quality
When Things Get Back To Normal
Ready To Purchase A Subscription – Whidbey Water Quality
Less Pollution at Bellingham and Anacortes?
More Than A Week Since The Big Rains
Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area – Any News Coverage?
Ocean Water in Snohomish County?
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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.
What happened to officer Anderson?
Discussion of the role of law enforcement in a free society
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?
August 7, 2019 Jacob G. Hornberger
Kneeling during ball game flag rituals was frowned upon
More flags, military jet flyovers, and an increased use of the word hero will make it all good.
Mayor Day tells us that sending hometown troops to Africa is linked to keeping the people of Salisbury Maryland safe and free.
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.”
Open container laws
Port Townsend and the Sound of Freedom
I understand that people are patriotic. I understand that people are proud of their time in uniform. I understand that elected officials want to generate support for overseas military operations.
Making claims that these deployments are linked in any way with American rights and freedoms is fiction.
A Fictional Militarized Version of Freedom
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Related:
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Soviet-Style Militarized Pageantry Update
US Funds The Armed Forces As If We Are A Socialist Country?
Why Do Americans Celebrate Pretend Freedom and Independence on July 4th?
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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Welcome Visitors
Rent yourself a State Parks buoy at Fort Worden
Voted best consumer value in weekend recreation.
The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.
In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.
In terms of American rights and freedoms-The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.
I understand that people are patriotic. I understand that people are proud of their time in uniform. I understand that elected officials want to generate support for overseas military operations.
Making claims that these deployments are linked in any way with American rights and freedoms is fiction.
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.”
Local press
Here, in this military town, the local paper seems to go with family friendly and patriotic themes.
A while back, their hometown pride was running high when they posted:
“For the past couple of years, the Whidbey News-Times paid the insurance for the Veterans Day Parade, about $200, because it was a small way of saying thank you to the men and women who sacrificed so that we may have our liberties, including our Freedom of Speech.”
Were US troops sent to Vietnam so that Americans could be free to send letters to the editor?
Is there any case in which the US Armed Forces have been sent to distant lands on a mission to protect freedom of speech?
Military Town – Hometown Pride
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.
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.
Why do we pretend that the US Armed Forces function as some sort of giant civil rights organization?
Many veterans claim to have served to protect American rights & freedoms.
How does this work?
Black people were still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory.
Voting
Congressman Derek Kilmer:
Wars are for freedom and democracy.
WA Secretary of State:
“Our right to vote is protected by the extraordinary men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.”
Page 7 of the Washington State Elections Voters Pamphlet for the November 5th, 2019 General Election:
“Our right to vote is protected by the members of the U.S. Armed Forces.”
“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?
Until July of 1971, 18 year old adults did not have full voting rights. Why didn’t US Military operations conducted in the 1940s, 50s & 60s get the job done on this?
One of the nation’s largest, oldest and most respected veterans organizations tells us: Veterans, not politicians, ‘give us the right to vote,’ observers at Amherst Veterans Day ceremonies told
Veterans give 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?
Claims about freedoms that cry out for questioning:
Two major political parties continue to promote the idea that The Troops are sent to distant lands to fight for American rights and freedoms.
School teachers and newspeople are OK with promoting this urban legend.
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.
Each November, school teachers across America host Veterans Day assemblies– and promote the idea to children that The Troops are in distant lands-fighting for American rights and freedoms-as if the US Armed Forces function as some sort of giant civil rights organization.
In Washington State, these assemblies are mandatory.
The VA tells teachers that The Troops are Defending Liberty and Freedom.
Love to see a student ask: 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?
Love to see a student ask: If the wars aren’t won-how can they protect our freedom?
Love to see a student ask: Whatever happened to lessons about Armistice Day?
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?
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Related:
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Soviet-Style Militarized Pageantry Update
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
A symbol of a Dept. of Defense with a truly poor track record for winning wars since DOD was established way back in 1949.
A symbol of a Dept. of Defense that was nowhere to be found on 911.
We haven’t won a war since.
A symbol of lies told to support undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.
A symbol of newspeople not asking questions.
Absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war, the people of Minnesota need services in Africa.
Jun 7, 2020 The Free Press
DUTY CALLS: Local National Guard unit heading to Africa
“Despite their differences in age and experience, Staff Sgt. Truman, 47, and 2nd Lt. Ross, 26, had some common reactions to the yearlong assignment. Both had barely heard of Djibouti, the tiny country that’s home to the only permanent U.S. military base in Africa.”
“If Camp Leonnier and Djibouti sound familiar to Mankatoans, it might be because another Mankato-based military unit is already deployed there. The Army Reserve’s 492nd Engineer Company is scheduled to return this summer.”
Life wasn’t meant to change after the big Saddam Hussein & Osama bin Laden takedowns.
“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.”
“…active duty pay and benefits and go home every night…”
“Truman won’t be going home every night — or any night — for the next year. He and the other 700 soldiers reported to Camp Ripley on Monday for additional training and will depart for Fort Bliss, Texas, at the end of June.”
May 28, 2020 WMAR
Salisbury Mayor deploying to Africa with Maryland National Guard
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.”
The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.
In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.
In terms of American rights and freedoms- The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.
Legal marijuana, concealed carry of handguns, semi automatic rifle sales, federal minimum drinking age, sports betting, voting rights, bump stock ban, interracial marriage, gay marriage, tobacco sales, open container laws, etc.
None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.
As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.
If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.
Just Be Honest.
Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Some states have worked to keep the National Guard out of undeclared wars in distant lands:
Idaho
Feb 26, 2020 Post Register
“As lieutenant governor, I support efforts by Rep. Tammy Nichols — backed by former Idaho National Guard Sgt. Dan McKnight and BringOurTroopsHome.US — to enact “Defend the Guard”legislation requiring that Idaho’s Guard personnel shall not be activated for combat duty overseas unless Congress has first declared war.”
West Virginia
Jobs program:
Bill would disrupt West Virginia’s National Guard
February 10, 2020 West Virginia MetroNews Network
“Second, and perhaps more important, the state and the National Guard benefit significantly from the Guard’s federal roles in federal allocations and civilian jobs here. If West Virginia were able to withdraw from its federal role (except in the case of a declared war), it would lose millions of federal dollars, civilian jobs and critical military training and support.”
If small towns all across America had military jobs programs-would they question undeclared/unwon wars that never end?
More here:
US Funds The Armed Forces As If We Are A Socialist Country?
Related:
Various states have recently sent National Guard troops to distant lands. Each one claims that military operations overseas are somehow linked to American rights and freedoms:
How did Rhode Island freedoms get over to the Middle East?
Maryland Freedoms Found In The Middle East?
West Virginia Freedom Found In The Middle East?
How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?
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
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The proud eagle as a symbol of the nation. Chosen to represent the country in a time prior to U.S. service members being stationed in 170+ countries overseas.
Prior to the Department of Defense involving itself in decades of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.
Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.
Are newspeople forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security funding and performance?
The press release style of news reporting means that a statement is prepared by whatever agency was involved in the latest bust/federal grant money award, etc. Newspeople post this statement without asking any questions.
Our questions appear in bold type.
After squandering DOD credibility for decades in distant lands, a new WWII style uniform look and a pledge to clobber the cartels:
April 1, 2020 C-SPAN
Did General Milley show a lack of confidence in a $51.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security and their ability to keep cartel product out of US communities when he made this bold commitment to go after cartels?
State-run media update:
Jun 3, 2020 DEA NewYork
Nothing gets past @CBP’s K9 units!
Nothing gets past @CBP’s K9 units?
Any word on how this load of cocaine made it into WA before the attempted transport into Canada?
May 27, 2020 The Bellingham Herald
$2.5 million in cocaine found in commercial truck crossing into Canada near Blaine
Another undetected load entered WA earlier in the month of May.
Where were @CBP’s K9 units?
May 14, 2020 KIRO7
$3 million worth of cocaine seized at US-Canadian border
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:
Jun 4, 2020 iFiber One News
Grant Co. designated as High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, more federal resources now available
Being recognized as a county with a drug trafficking problem is great news?
What about General Milley’s pledge to clobber the cartels? Is the Dept. of Defense at all relevant in keeping cartel product out of Grant County?
If nothing gets past @CBP’s K9 units, why the need for federal drug war grant money in Kootenai County?
June 4th 2020 KVAL News
US designates Kootenai County part of Idaho/Oregon High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area
“The designation means law enforcement agencies will get federal grant money, and that federal, state, local and tribal police will be better able to coordinate activities and share information.”
Did General Milley show lack of confidence in DEA’s ability to keep cartel product out of US communities when he made his bold pledge two months back?
Will there be less need for federal grant money related to the drug war if General Milley’s plan takes hold?
Will there be less need for a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration if General Milley’s plan takes hold?
Will High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas be phased out if General Milley’s plan takes hold?
More here:
Port Angeles/Blaine Drug War Scam – Zero Questions From The Press
Cartel responds to General Milley by moving more product into the US
Rare & Mysterious Port Angeles Border Patrol Arrests
Zero Questions from Puget Sound Area Newspeople – Drug War Press Release
Pentagon Going After Cartels Update
Podcast 2 Pentagon Taking On Drug Cartels
DOD Symbolism vs. Track Record
The Big Drug Bust – Always Reported as a Highly Successful Team Effort
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Newspeople play the role of federal public affairs personnel during Operation Macho Swagger–a ride-along to let us know what is being done to keep the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca safe from B.C. incursions: Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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A symbol of federal credibility.
A symbol of newspeople repeatedly posting press releases and asking zero questions while making pleas for more support, donations and paid subscriptions.
Violence delevered to non-violent situations by law enforcement personnel or rioters.
Dave Smith isn’t trying to please everyone.
9:15 Appalled by acts of violence against peaceful people and property destruction:
Related:
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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Port Hadlock Transit Center
Jun 2, 2020 CNBC
Pentagon official walks back Trump claim that top military officer is in charge of protest response
“In a contentious call with the nation’s governors Monday, Trump described Joint Chiefs Chairman U.S. Army Gen. Mark Milley as “a warrior” with “a lot of victories and no losses,” according to audio obtained by NBC.”
JUNE 2, 2020 KELLEY BEAUCAR VLAHOS
General Milley Checks On His Troops…On The Streets Of D.C.
“He finished the evening by addressing the nation, announcing he would be deploying federal troops “to stop the rioting, looting, vandalism, assaults and the wanton destruction of property,” he said. “We will end it now.” He said the military would exert “total domination” over the situation. Again, flash bangs could be heard and smell of tear gas in the air as protesters were dispersed just before the D.C. curfew.”
Federal troops “to stop the rioting, looting, vandalism, assaults and the wanton destruction of property,” he said. “We will end it now.”
Love to see newspeople ask:
General Milley,
Why does DOD seem to struggle with similar missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, etc.
In the news-
After squandering DOD credibility for decades in distant lands, a new WWII style uniform look and a pledge to clobber the cartels:
April 1, 2020 C-SPAN
Did General Milley show a lack of confidence in CBP’s ability to keep cartel product out of US communities when he made this bold pledge two months back?
Will there be less need for CBP, a DEA, a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program, or an Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team if General Milley’s plan takes hold?
Is this the sort of Macho Swagger required to keep cartels from moving product into US communities?
Cartel responds to General Milley by moving more product into the US
Port Angeles/Blaine Drug War Scam – Zero Questions From The Press
Related:
Disoriented man who may have lost his way and requires the use of a cain in order to walk is struck down by riot police on an almost empty street?
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
More here:
US Funds The Armed Forces As If We Are A Socialist Country?
Kneeling during ball game flag rituals was frowned upon
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Why Do Americans Celebrate Pretend Freedom and Independence on July 4th?
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
Right To Vote Linked To Military Operations/US Troops in Distant Lands?
Soviet-Style Militarized Pageantry Update
DOD Symbolism vs. Track Record
Not The Trump Hater Page Update
Pentagon Going After Cartels Update
Podcast 2 Pentagon Taking On Drug Cartels
Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree
The Big Drug Bust – Always Reported as a Highly Successful Team Effort
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
The proud eagle as a symbol of the nation. Chosen to represent the country in a time prior to U.S. service members being stationed in 170+ countries overseas.
Prior to the Department of Defense involving itself in decades of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.
Trying to figure out what the major political parties believe in, has always been more important to me than the political personalities that come and go.
On occasion, events become so curious that they call for further attention and discussion.
In the video below, are we seeing a campaign stop?
What would the transcript of this event look like?
At 1:07 we see the start of an awkward/not made for TV moment.
Standing and silently manipulating a bible in front of a closed church.
At 1:31, high level members of the administration, looking a bit lost and a lot awkward are invited to get on camera.
JUNE 2, 2020 KELLEY BEAUCAR VLAHOS
General Milley Checks On His Troops…On The Streets Of D.C.
“He finished the evening by addressing the nation, announcing he would be deploying federal troops “to stop the rioting, looting, vandalism, assaults and the wanton destruction of property,” he said. “We will end it now.” He said the military would exert “total domination” over the situation. Again, flash bangs could be heard and smell of tear gas in the air as protesters were dispersed just before the D.C. curfew.”
Federal troops “to stop the rioting, looting, vandalism, assaults and the wanton destruction of property,” he said. “We will end it now.”
Love to see newspeople ask:
General Milley,
Why does DOD seem to struggle with similar missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, etc.
Related:
Disoriented man who may have lost his way and requires the use of a cain in order to walk is struck down by riot police on an almost empty street?
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
Crackdown In The Streets/Public Relations news video update at 0:25
Looks more like a disoriented man who may have lost his way and requires the use of a cain in order to walk.
Looks less like a violent agitator or protester who might participate in rioting or looting:
More flags, military jet flyovers, and an increased use of the word hero will make it all good.
Is this the sort of Macho Swagger required to keep cartels from moving product into US communities?
Cartel responds to General Milley by moving more product into the US
Port Angeles/Blaine Drug War Scam – Zero Questions From The Press
Possibly of interest:
Kneeling during ball game flag rituals was frowned upon
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Why Do Americans Celebrate Pretend Freedom and Independence on July 4th?
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
Right To Vote Linked To Military Operations/US Troops in Distant Lands?
Soviet-Style Militarized Pageantry Update
DOD Symbolism vs. Track Record
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
A few thoughts:
Not advocating socialism here.
Not describing the people who do time in uniform here.
Just taking a look at how the US Armed Forces are funded and the attitudes that go with that.
I am thinking that when the nation started out, the military at the time was somewhat like a volunteer fire dept. They were big enough to take care of their own neighborhood and maybe help out the next town over.
No money needed to be raised to send troops to Afghanistan or to support NATO operations.
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015 ISSUE The Atlantic
“T. X. Hammes, a retired Marine Corps colonel who has a doctorate in modern history from Oxford, told me that instead of applying critical judgment to military programs, or even regarding national defense as any kind of sacred duty, politicians have come to view it simply as a teat.”
Always a big issue on Whidbey Island
July 16, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Letter: AG’s lawsuit against Navy is a political spectacle
“We cannot imagine a more worthy cause than supporting the mission of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, the largest employer within three counties. NAS Whidbey Island provides over 9,000 military and civilian jobs with a total economic activity generated in this area equalling nearly $1.04 billion. Jets truly do equal jobs.”
Christine Cribb Executive Director Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce.
The cash required to bring in these jobs and economic activity comes out of the pockets of taxpayers. It’s not based on any sort of voluntary exchange or honest demand for these services.
If small towns all across America had military jobs programs- would they question undeclared/unwon wars that never end?
More here:
Jobs Programs For Your Freedoms Update:
Free Entrance Days in the National Parks
This sounds like an idea from a capitalist society. Maybe a fast food place picks a certain day to offer free fries, etc. It’s been done before.
National Parks lands are paid for the same way as the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Why no free days for undeclared/unwon wars that never end?
People will say that our system is based on capitalism and that is how a great deal of money is raised to fund DOD.
Capitalism:
If Amazon needs truck drivers to move product between warehouses and distribution centers, they contract with people and companies to get that done, all the way down into your neighborhood. Amazon doesn’t have the federal government force people to kick in tax money to pay for their trucks. If people don’t like Amazon, they are free to opt out on being a customer.
A Las Vegas casino needs a security team. The casino contracts with people and companies to set up an environment where their customers feel safe and comfortable to come and spend money. If you don’t like gambling, you are free to opt out on visiting any casino. The casino is not using the federal government to force you to pay for their operations.
May 22, 2020 The Future of Freedom Foundation
How About Permanently Closing Public Schools?
by Jacob G. Hornberger
No longer somewhat like a volunteer fire dept.
U.S. service members are now stationed in 170+ countries overseas.
NATO was created after WWII to contain Soviet aggression. The cold war ended, but NATO remained in place.
Did the advantage of NATO allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?
Has NATO ever participated in a war declared by the US?
Why does the Dept. of Defense have such a poor track record for winning wars?
Why do we hear constant lies about freedom related to US military operations in distant lands?
Freedom from lies about freedom?
May 26th, 2020 Congressman Derek Kilmer
Congressman Kilmer tells us that wars are waged to defend our freedom.
Congressman Kilmer,
While the troops were deployed, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.
Can you help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here?
December 21st 2019 KOMO News
Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide
“Signed into law by President Donald Trump Friday as part of the new $1.4 trillion spending bill, a new measure prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21.”
Congressman Derek Kilmer:
May 26, 2019
Wars are for freedom and democracy.
Congressman Kilmer,
If wars are fought for democracy-how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
Congressman Kilmer,
If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms, what becomes of those freedoms when the US leaves Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc., without a victory?
1967
Did the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to safeguard American freedoms?
Was it the Viet Cong that set up laws in 16 US states to prohibit interracial marriage?
Legal marijuana, concealed carry of handguns, semi automatic rifle sales, federal minimum drinking age, sports betting, voting rights, bump stock ban, interracial marriage, gay marriage, tobacco sales, open container laws, etc.
None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.
As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.
If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.
Just Be Honest.
Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.
A Dept. of Defense that was nowhere to be found on 911.
We haven’t won a war since.
A Dept. of Defense with a truly poor track record for winning wars since DOD was established way back in 1949.
The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.
In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.
In terms of American rights and freedoms- The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.
Nov 14, 2019 Stars and Stripes
Post-9/11 Wars Have Cost American Taxpayers $6.4 trillion, Study Finds
More here:
Unsustainable Military Spending
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Why Do Americans Celebrate Pretend Freedom and Independence on July 4th?
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
Right To Vote Linked To Military Operations/US Troops in Distant Lands?
Soviet-Style Militarized Pageantry Update
DOD Symbolism vs. Track Record
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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A symbol of a Dept. of Defense with a truly poor track record for winning wars since DOD was established way back in 1949 and the lies about freedom that are used to promote it.
Non violent protest please.
August 7, 2019 Jacob G. Hornberger
Welfare-Warfare State “Freedom” and “Patriotism”
More here:
Flag Idolatry Means Never Having to Ask Questions
Why Do Americans Celebrate Pretend Freedom and Independence on July 4th?
A Critical Time To Trust The Government
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Way before COVID-19:
Halloween 2019
In the news:
Gallipolis, Ohio
Local authorities dictate a one hour window for trick-or-treat time 2019. For some reason, Halloween will be observed exactly one week in advance of October 31st.
Your family will start at 5:30 and be done for the year at 6:30 p.m.
“The Gallipolis Police Department recently announced times for Trick-or-Treat set for the Gallipolis.”
“The annual event will be from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 24. All drivers are reminded to be cautious and drive slowly throughout the community.”
This is not an event held over at the mall, town square or dentist’s office:
Much of the article above includes detailed safety tips such as dressing the kids up in reflective gear so they look like a county road maintenance crew. It’s clear that most of the WWII generation is gone now.
For more about safety, please visit our safety tips page:
More here:
Stay in your homes and wait for further instructions.
Whidbey Island
May 29, 2020 Whidbey News-Times
Conflicting mask proclamations in Langley clarified
“Fortunately, the mayor is giving special permission to cast off those facial binds while eating.”
Pizza delivery, marijuana and booze sales roll on as government agencies phase out access and services.
Local press responds with reduced coverage and less in the way of asking questions:
Concealed Carry Processing Suspended
Over in Spokane, a picnic at a park:
“The city of Spokane Valley sent the organizer of a picnic a letter telling her not to have the picnic. The city cited King Inslee’s orders over his realm as the reason we can’t picnic. Come join us at Valley Mission Park in Spokane Valley 5/30/20 11-2.”
Freedom and Independence from a powerful, central government?
Dec 17, 2019 The Atlantic
The Lessons of the Afghanistan Papers
Undeclared/unwon wars that never end.
Nov 14, 2019 Stars and Stripes
Post-9/11 Wars Have Cost American Taxpayers $6.4 trillion, Study Finds
More here:
Unsustainable Military Spending
Billions of dollars spent every 12 months on a US Dept. of Homeland Security that fails to keep cartels from moving product into Hometown, USA.
March 2, 2020 Auburn Examiner
DEA Announces Launch of Methamphetamine Initiative
Welcome Home Troops
Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan-working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.
Don’t worry-The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:
More here:
Port Angeles/Blaine Drug War Scam – Zero Questions From The Press
Freedom from lies about freedom?
May 26th, 2020 Congressman Derek Kilmer
Congressman Kilmer tells us that wars are waged to defend our freedom.
Congressman Kilmer,
While the troops were deployed, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.
Can you help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here?
December 21st 2019 KOMO News
Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide
“Signed into law by President Donald Trump Friday as part of the new $1.4 trillion spending bill, a new measure prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21.”
Congressman Derek Kilmer:
May 26, 2019
Wars are for freedom and democracy.
Congressman Kilmer,
If wars are fought for democracy-how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
Congressman Kilmer,
If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms, what becomes of those freedoms when the US leaves Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc., without a victory?
1967
Did the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to safeguard American freedoms?
Was it the Viet Cong that set up laws in 16 US states to prohibit interracial marriage?
More here:
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
Right To Vote Linked To Military Operations/US Troops in Distant Lands?
Soviet-Style Militarized Pageantry Update
DOD Symbolism vs. Track Record
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Some controversy related to this one, because the brewery was bought out by the big guys.
This one is pretty common to find on tap at bars and restaurants.
I order it, because I know I like it, & these days, I’d like to do less experimenting.
Related:
Along for the afternoon: Classic Deep Cuts
Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.
Are newspeople forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security funding and performance?
The press release style of news reporting means that a statement is prepared by whatever agency was involved in the latest bust. Newspeople post this statement without asking any questions.
Our questions appear in bold type.
Port Angeles
Is Port Angeles CBP staffing and infrastructure at all relevant in keeping heroin, cocaine and meth from entering Port Angeles?
Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound cocaine, meth or heroin?
Newspeople remain silent.
May 27, 2020 Peninsula Daily News
Bail set at $100,000 for Forks man
“Bail of $100,000 was set Tuesday for a Forks man who allegedly tried to swallow a bag of heroin that could have killed him while he was being arrested outside Walmart east of downtown Port Angeles.”
“King said that inside the vehicle, detectives found 47.4 grams of heroin, 4 grams of cocaine, 1.2 grams of methamphetamine, three sets of digital scales, $3,000 in $20 and $100 bills in Harris’ purse, a loaded 9 mm semi-automatic handgun in her purse, unused plastic baggies, and “crib notes” that appeared to list drug sales.”
When will a $51.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security be able to keep heroin, cocaine and meth from entering Port Angeles?
Is General Milley confident that CBP is able to keep cartel product out of US communities?
Any word on General Milley’s pledge to clobber the cartels?
Will there be less need for an Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team (OPNET) after General Milley’s plan prevents cartels form moving product into the US?
Are fraudulent overtime claims still the norm at Port Angeles?
Border Patrol whistleblower pays price for refusing overtime pay
More here:
Rare & Mysterious Port Angeles Border Patrol Arrests
Near Blaine – Two incidents in May – A total of $5.5 million worth of cocaine enters Washington State – The press responds with zero questions:
Second incident
May 27, 2020 Bellingham Herald
$2.5 million in cocaine found in commercial truck crossing into Canada near Blaine
“The Canadian Border Services Agency announced that it seized 20 kilograms of suspected cocaine found in a commercial truck attempting to cross the border from the U.S. at the Pacific Highway port of entry Commercial operation earlier this month near Blaine.”
“It is the second significant drug bust at the Blaine border crossing this month.”
“On May 9, an anonymous tip led U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Pacific Highway Truck Crossing to find an estimated $3 million in cocaine in a commercial truck heading to Canada. Officers believe the driver of the truck is connected to a large international drug trafficking organization”
Any word on how the cocaine made it into WA before the attempted transport into Canada?
What about General Milley’s pledge to clobber the cartels?
When will a $51.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security be able to keep cocaine out of WA?
Welcome Home Troops
Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan-working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.
Don’t worry-The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:
First incident
May 14, 2020 KIRO 7 News
$3 million worth of cocaine seized at US-Canadian border
“CBP officials said they referred a tractor-trailer driven by a Canadian citizen for additional examination during an outbound inspection.”
May 14, 2020 Washington Examiner
Man nabbed smuggling $3M worth of cocaine into Canada from the US
“Customs officers stopped a blue 2000 Freightliner with British Columbia tags towing a trailer with Oklahoma plates as it attempted to pass through outbound inspection lanes May 9. The officers found five handbags in the back of the trailer that contained 132 pounds of cocaine, worth $3 million in street value.”
Any word on how the $3 million worth of cocaine got past General Milley’s DOD, a $51.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security, then on into WA?
Anytime there is a plane crash, a loss at sea, or an industrial accident, a thorough investigation takes place. Lessons learned are used to prevent future accidents.
Why no similar effort in the drug war?
Newspeople remain silent.
Related:
Cartel responds to General Milley by moving more product into the US
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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A symbol of newspeople repeatedly posting press releases instead of asking any questions.
WA lost hundreds of millions of dollars to scammers
May 24, 2020 The Seattle Times
“By the time the fraud was recognized, scammers had made off with “hundreds of millions of dollars,” ESD Commissioner Suzi LeVine acknowledged Thursday.”
“All of that happened despite a $44 million software upgrade at ESD that was supposed to help detect such fraud.”
Every vote counts?
March 26, 2020 Whitman County Gazette
“I-976 was supposed to go into effect Dec. 5, but has been held up by the city of Seattle and King County officials who have filed suit to prevent its implementation.”
Trust in law enforcement
May 26, 2020 reason
Minnesota Man Dies After Video Shows Cop Pressing Knee to His Neck for Nearly 8 Minutes
“…pressing his knee into the side of Floyd’s neck while he’s on the ground and handcuffed.”
More flags, military jet flyovers, and an increased use of the word hero will make it all good.
Whidbey waters and sewage treatment plant outfalls
I will purchase a subscription to any Puget Sound area newspaper working to inform us on Whidbey water quality impacted by sewage treatment plant outfalls.
One or more sewage treatment plants are sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?
Reporting on this topic appears to be completely off limits to the press.
Several Island County beaches are now closed for recreational shellfish harvest because of sewage treatment outfall.
Sewage treatment outfall. Not stormwater.
This appears to be a routine/ongoing situation.
View the Washington State Department of Health beach list here.
More here:
Whidbey Signs of Water Quality
A good time to safeguard trust in the press too.
1:25 News crew busted for lecturing about masks while not wearing them:
0:34
I feel like a man on the moon in 1969 was a proud American moment.
Since that time, both major parties have taken turns in power and have squandered credibility that would help in the current situation.
We were told we needed to send troops to Vietnam to stay safe.
Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, etc.
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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A symbol of credibility at all levels of government.
A trip to the state park might be a chance to leave the pressures of the world behind for an hour or two.
Preemptive warning notices will snap your mind back to reality before you even start your visit at the park.
As I have posted earlier, the parks are not new to me. I have been visiting Washington State Parks in the Puget Sound area since the 70s. Today’s parks are much more about a culture of warnings and enforcement than they were in the old days. Driving over to the local state park these days is like asking permission to enter a military base. Stop and show your parking pass before you arrive at the parking area. Listen to a reminder to display your parking pass so that you will not get a ticket. Am I on a third grade field trip?
This was true prior to the current news Re: COVID-19.
Let’s get out on the trail:
A park bench by the lake:
Prior to COVID-19
Wondering if something like 89 cents of each dollar collected for daytime parking fees goes directly towards funding of the manufacturing, installation and maintenance of enforcement related warning signs, kiosks, pay boxes, fluorescent placards, and the manufacturing and distribution of enforcement related literature, blank forms and documentation materials.
Photos here:
Enjoy Washington’s Natural Heritage
Washington State Parks
Have Washington State Parks been taken over by a culture of enforcement?
Sept. 26, 2018 The News Tribune
Bad guys will be up the river when these cops finish their training
Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission provides training to sheriff’s deputies Re: “…a terrorist threat or protester boat was getting too close to a high-value target: A nuclear submarine, commercial boat or cruise ship, among others.”
“…Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission. The agency is in charge of training all 53 law enforcement agencies in the state that have marine units.”
“An Island County sheriff’s boat was in hot pursuit as deputies on board that boat played the part of, well, themselves.”
Please consider moving towards a Leave No Trace theme when it comes to posting warning signs at the parks.
Related:
Less Hassle – Oregon State Parks
Another Season – Another WA State Parks Checkpoint
Mixed Messages On What Is An Emergency
Local info:
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
We wouldn’t have the freedom to have a campfire if Saddam Hussein was still in power.
Another of many examples where freedoms may come & go-completely unrelated to military operations/US Troops in distant lands, or the Sound of Freedom:
1967
Did the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to safeguard American freedoms?
Was it the Viet Cong that set up laws in 16 US states to prohibit interracial marriage?
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?
Total nonsense:
WA Secretary of State
“Our right to vote has always been protected by the brave men and women who serve in our Armed Forces.”
If a right to vote has always been protected by the brave men and women who serve in our Armed Forces, how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
If a right to vote is protected by the US Armed Forces, what becomes of that right when the US leaves Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc., without a victory?
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
Right To Vote Linked To Military Operations/US Troops in Distant Lands?
Maybe Get Away From The Bragging About Freedom?
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.
Are newspeople forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security funding and performance?
Love to see more in the way of newspeople out asking questions. Get away from posting the press release handed down from whatever agency was involved in the latest bust.
Zero questions from newspeople:
Local meth news stories here.
Local heroin news stories here.
Plenty of questions here:
Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree
The press release style of news reporting avoids asking questions. Our questions appear in bold type.
June 2, 2010 Peninsula Daily News
What happens next to alleged Canadian smugglers of a quarter-ton of pot?
“Customs and Border Protection agents on marine patrol apprehended the Canadians unloading 547 pounds of “B.C. bud” marijuana off the Deep Creek area about halfway between Port Angeles and Neah Bay at about 1:30 a.m. Monday, authorities said.”
July 4, 2010 Peninsula Daily News
Details emerge in big ‘BC bud’ pot bust case
“Two Canadian nationals were caught unloading it from a boat near Clallam Bay at about 1:20 a.m. May 31, according to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agent’s account of what occurred the night of the men’s capture following a 1.5-mile, high-speed boat chase.”
Why are Border Patrol arrest statistics secret at Port Angeles?
Port Angeles CBP arrest statistics are secret:
March 19, 2014 Sequim Gazette
Agent counters allegations of ‘boredom’
“In March, Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Richard Sinks declined to release statistics on apprehensions or detainments made by the Port Angeles station.”
“Disclosure of the arrest statistics from the Port Angeles station would provide those interested in crossing our borders illegally with information that could aid their strategic targeting of potentially vulnerable areas along the border,” he said in an e-mail. “To maintain operational security these numbers will not be provided.”
Go and ask the FBI for Chicago bank robbery statistics. You’ll get the numbers. They won’t tell you that statistics/public records must be withheld because stats would assist bank robbers if they were shared with the public.
What other law enforcement agencies, anywhere in the US maintain secret arrest statistics?
Washington State Patrol shares DUI arrest statistics on social media here:
“Our #WSP District 8 troopers removed 1,429 impaired drivers from the roads in 2018.”
“Here is a breakdown of what it looks like in each of our 7 counties.”
Elsewhere, when CBP has something to brag about-the public is promptly notified:
Border Patrol K-9 Sniffs out Cocaine Hidden in Dashboard
Border Patrol Stops Drug Smuggler on I-8
Border Patrol Agent’s Public Safety Check Turns into Heroin Bust
If releasing info about arrests helps the bad guys, why was the public promptly notified of the May 31, 2010 arrests described at the top of this page?
Almost exactly 10 years later:
May 16, 2020 Bellingham Herald
Border agents seize nearly 500 pounds of marijuana on boat from Canada
“Several agencies partnered to intercept a drug shipment from Canada Monday, May 11, that contained nearly 500 pounds of marijuana, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.”
“Department of Homeland Security investigators, along with Bellingham Air and Marine Operations and Border Patrol agents, tracked the 23-foot Bayliner boat from Canadian waters to the John Wayne Marina in Sequim, according to a news release Friday, May 15. Agents then seized the boat and 497 pounds of marijuana.”
The most complete coverage on this incident seems to come from state-run media:
May 15, 2020 U.S. Customs and Border Protection
DHS partners coordinate to seize nearly 500 pounds of marijuana
“U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Port Angeles Station in coordination with Air and Marine Operations, Bellingham Air and Marine Branch, and Homeland Security Investigations interdicted a narcotics smuggling load on Monday, which had originated in Canada.”
May 12, 2020 US Border Patrol Acting Chief Patrol Agent Tony Holladay
“Blaine Sector’s Port Angeles Station, CBP’s AMO and HSI seized 496 pounds of marijuana that was smuggled across the U.S./Canada maritime border yesterday morning. Always vigilant! #Teamwork #HonorFirst”
If releasing info about arrests will help the bad guys, why was the public promptly notified of the May 11, 2020 arrests described above?
Two incidents, almost exactly 10 years apart, both involving very similar quantities of marijuana.
Since Sept. 11th, 2001, are these the only two cross-border arrests made by the Port Angeles Border Patrol?
Are legal marijuana rules and restrictions in Washington State, so complicated that the black market continues to thrive?
Questions newspeople will not ask:
Are fraudulent overtime claims still the norm at Port Angeles?
Border Patrol whistleblower pays price for refusing overtime pay
Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound meth or heroin?
Even one time?
Is local CBP staffing and infrastructure at all relevant in keeping heroin and meth from entering Port Angeles, Clallam County, the Olympic Peninsula, or the Puget Sound area?
Newspeople,
Why did the Blaine Sector Weekly US Border Patrol blotter go extinct?
When local USBP staffing went from four to 42 agents, what increase in arrests and apprehensions was achieved?
Related:
Cartel responds to General Milley by moving more product into the US
Zero Questions from Puget Sound Area Newspeople – Drug War Press Release
Pentagon Going After Cartels Update
Podcast 2 Pentagon Taking On Drug Cartels
DOD Symbolism vs. Track Record
The Big Drug Bust – Always Reported as a Highly Successful Team Effort
Growing Up In The Cold War Era
Newspeople play the role of federal public affairs personnel during Operation Macho Swagger–a ride-along to let us know what is being done to keep the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca safe from B.C. incursions: Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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Vancouver Island from Crescent Beach
Watching this one come long.
