People might be able to do a better job of voting if newspeople were more in the habit of asking questions.
Basic public policy questions seem to go unasked:
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?
Is local CBP staffing and infrastructure at all relevant in keeping heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or meth from entering the Puget Sound area?
Newspeople remain silent:
Independent/alternative media.
Out asking questions:
November 4, 2019 ClutchPoints
Jets coach Adam Gase is not worried about his job security
Why doesn’t this style of reporting cross over to stories about the US Dept. of Homeland Security, big drug busts, or the Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars?
Any War on Terror Generals getting fired for failed efforts?
Any Homeland Security people getting fired for failing to keep bad guys from moving meth & heroin into the Puget Sound area?
Do public schools still teach Armistice Day lessons?
Any newspeople asking questions?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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About this time of year – Fort Ebey
This project gets a little bigger each year as we get better at collecting and storing the browns and greens needed for a new compost pile.
Good idea to have it get dark an hour earlier?
Local sunset: 1647
Vote by mail ballot must be postmarked no later than Election Day.
Completed ballot travels through the mail in an envelope that is prepaid.
The prepaid envelope will not get a postmark?
How does this work?
If it takes further explanation, why isn’t this explanation included with the ballot instructions?
If a WA voter is visiting family in Florida & they mail the prepaid ballot envelope in FL- a day or two prior to Election Day- will it be counted?
Tax Day
Any of this going on for Election Day?
“Some post offices have extended hours on tax day and offer late postmarking, the USPS says.”
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Much talk of freedom.
Voting is highly emphasized.
Basic public policy questions seem to go unasked.
People might be able to do a better job of voting if newspeople were more in the habit of asking questions.
Our questions appear in bold type.
Freedom
“…the men and women of the armed forces guarantee our freedom…”
“For now, the skies above the Olympic Peninsula belong to the Navy’s mission of defending freedom. What that sounds like is up for debate.”
Voting is highly emphasized
WA Secretary of State:
“Our right to vote is protected by the extraordinary men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.”
Local elections matter! With paid postage, every mailbox is a drop box — mail your ballot envelope before Election Day or use a Snohomish County drop box.
Basic public policy questions related to the drug war, war on terror, and Homeland Security funding and performance seem to go unasked.
Vibrant comment section in local paper:
October 23, 2019 Kent Reporter
16 indicted for trafficking large amounts of heroin and methamphetamine in Seattle area
October 30, 2019 Reason
Rep. Dan Crenshaw:
It’s necessary to protect America from “an ideology that truly wants to kill us.”
Terrorists must not be trying very hard. Can’t they come to the US the same way cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, or meth does?
In the news:
$200 million worth of meth somehow enters the US after getting past US Troops at the border and federal agents manning $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security. Product not discovered until after arriving in Australia.
Zero questions from newspeople:
October 31, 2019 KING 5 News
Australian police find $200 million worth of meth hidden in sriracha bottles
October 23, 2019, Q13 News video:
Drowning in methamphetamine?
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:
Representative Crenshaw,
Whatever happened to the formal congressional declaration of war?
This would be the time to hear from elected leaders and top generals on all the issues that have doomed the Department of Defense track record for winning wars since DOD was established in 1949.
Oct 30, 2019 The Guardian
Baghdadi raid video released as US general warns of Isis reprisal attacks
Why admit to taking out a bad guy if it may result in reprisal attacks?
Pentagon aerial footage of US raid on Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi:
With this type of vigilance in place, why are cartels able to move product into Hometown, USA?
Why are Border Patrol arrest statistics secret at Port Angeles, if it is appropriate to release video of a terrorist takedown?
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
Oct 30, 2019 Seattle Times
Is the freedom talk just for federal holidays and overseas military operations?
If CBP is good at locating inbound contraband- why is there no shortage of cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or meth anywhere in the US?
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:
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
Port Angeles Drug War Covered By Press Release
Press Plays The Role of Armed Forces & Homeland Security Public Affairs Staff
Homeland Security Meth/Heroin Racket Rolls On
Other issues too:
Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part
Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Oct 31, 2019 Nine News Australia
‘Keep the hard fight on with meth’: US helps draw up battle lines in Australia
Will the DEA advise Australia on a border wall?
What sort of track record does the DEA have in keeping meth out of American communities?
US Troops at the border, El Chapo takedown, opioid lawsuits, REAL ID, Homeland Security grant money, CBP social media posts, strict post 911 security protocols and a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security fail to keep meth out of the Puget Sound area:
October 23, 2019, Q13 News video:
Newspeople play along by not asking any questions.
Drowning in methamphetamine?
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:
Related:
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
More here:
Port Angeles Drug War Covered By Press Release
Press Plays The Role of Armed Forces & Homeland Security Public Affairs Staff
Homeland Security Meth/Heroin Racket Rolls On
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
WA voters approved enhanced background checks back in 2014:
November 4, 2014 Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Washington voters choose gun control; huge majority in Seattle area
Washington Universal Background Checks for Gun Purchases, Initiative 594 (2014)
“Furthermore, the initiative rendered it illegal to hand off a firearm to people outside a person’s immediate family, though exceptions were mentioned, including situations in which people are at a shooting range or hunting.”
Back in 2014 – Initiative 594 – Attempting to comply:
Recent weeks:
An 18-year-old shot someone six times at a Lakewood gas station. He’s been sentenced
Bellevue PD says first murder in 3 years was gang-related
Car windows keep being shot out in Tacoma
One dead after two overnight shootings in Seattle
2 wounded in South Seattle drive-by shooting
Four separate shootings strike over the weekend in King County
Looks like frequent gun crimes roll on.
Enhanced background checks approved back in 2014 have had time to take hold.
Any reporting or updates on this?
Another of many examples where freedoms may come & go- completely unrelated to military operations/US Troops in distant lands, or the Sound of Freedom:
Tacoma gun and ammo tax
Why would this be necessary if the 2014 move to require enhanced background checks has been effective?
Some of us who were kids in the 60s and 70s remember gun racks in trucks. The sight of rifles out in public didn’t seem to cause a stir. Seemed like there was less in the way of mass-casualty shootings too.
August 23, 2019 Tacoma News Tribune
Gun, ammunition tax proposed by Tacoma council member
“Mello’s request comes after recent shootings, including several in Tacoma this month. Mello’s letter was also signed by Mayor Victoria Woodards and Council member Catherine Ushka.”
October 28, 2019 KING 5 News video:
Tacoma City Council to vote on proposed gun tax
“…22 gun-related homicides in Tacoma this year alone…”
Washington State Constitution:
SECTION 24 RIGHT TO BEAR ARMS. “The right of the individual citizen to bear arms in defense of himself, or the state, shall not be impaired, but nothing in this section shall be construed as authorizing individuals or corporations to organize, maintain or employ an armed body of men.”
More here:
Machine Guns From American Sporting Goods Stores?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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Away from any residential area, & out to a safe and legal place in the hills, for a few hours of plinking.
Remember the old tradition of having your Halloween candy X-rayed?
It is still a good idea.
Before the kids are allowed to eat any candy- round them up and carpool with neighbors to the hospital, courthouse or law enforcement HQ to get the loot X-rayed.
The X-ray will reveal any needles, razor blades, or metal filings in the treats.
Is there a test for weed killer or rat poison? Ask about it.
Cold War era ritual lives on:
Casper, Wyoming
“The WMC’s Urgent Care East is offering free X-rays of Halloween candy from 3-11 pm Oct. 31-Nov. 1.”
Dale City, Virginia
“Patient First to Offer Free Candy X-Rays Oct. 26 to Nov. 3”
Southern Maryland
“Patient First Providing Halloween Safety Tips and Offering Free Candy X-Rays October, 26 to November 3, 2019”
Multiple locations in Maryland
“Free Halloween Candy X-rays Offered In Glen Burnie”
Odenton, Maryland
“Free Halloween Candy X-rays Offered By Odenton Medical Center”
Temple, Texas
“CTX emergency rooms X-raying Halloween candy for sharp objects”
“While your trick-or-treating, I know it’s probably tempting to grab some and start eating, but please check what the kids are eating before they eat it.”
Richmond, Virginia
“Patient First offering free X-ray of Halloween candy”
Dayton, Ohio
“Mont. Co. coroner to offer free x-ray scans of Halloween candy”
“It is about keeping our kids safe,” says Dr. Kent Harshbarger. “The public hears horror stories of razor blades being in candy that their child received from Trick or Treating and this is a great free way to make sure that all the candy is safe from this hazard.”
Make an appointment folks:
“An appointment is highly suggested. You can schedule one by calling…”
Houston, Texas
“Memorial Village ER to offer Halloween candy X-ray screenings”
“The event from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31, will feature X-ray screenings of Halloween candy to look for any foreign objects such as glass or metal before the children (and parents) partake. Children will learn about how the X-ray machines work.”
Event ends at 8pm, so hurry up & get over there.
“The event will discuss safety tips and hand out safety reflectors to keep children safe as they walk the streets in the evening hours. And of course, there will be candy on hand, too.”
OK- so, go twice. On the first visit you can grab some safety reflectors and listen to a discussion of safety tips. Come back later for X-rays.
Burke County, Georgia
“Burke County offering to x-ray Halloween candy for trick or treaters”
“Bennerman and the Burke County Sheriff’s Office will be using these metal detectors to make sure the candy is safe to eat.”
“The scanner can pick up all types of metal things, thumbtacks, gym clips, needles, and any type of metal devices.”
Henrico County, Virginia
“Patient First offers free safety blinkers, Halloween candy x-rays”
Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!
Related:
Stay in your homes and wait for further instructions.
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
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?
US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA
An upgrade in staff requiring a new, $11.9 million, 50 agent facility. Secret arrest statistics, denied FOIA requests, heroin and meth in the community, no cross-border USBP arrest in more than 9 years, fraudulent overtime claims, 1,200-horsepower interceptor boats and zero questions from the press.
Possibly of interest-
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
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
Why are Border Patrol arrest statistics secret at Port Angeles?
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
The large drug bust story is always reported as a big success. This, after drug traffickers are somehow able to move product past National Guard Troops, strict post 911 security protocols and federal agents manning a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security- before product arrives in Hometown, USA.
October 23, 2019, Q13 News video:
Drowning in methamphetamine?
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:
The drug war is especially fascinating because preventing bad people from coming here to do bad things became a bigger priority after 911.
We’re told that we are in a life and death struggle in the War on Terror. Bad people will come here to destroy our American way of life if we don’t send The Troops to fight in places like Iraq and Afghanistan. Since 2009, we need a special ID to go have lunch in Canada and then return home.
Every 12 months, the US Department of Homeland Security gets another $40 billion in taxpayer funds.
If the drug war excuse now, is that migrant surges are diverting attention away from cartel traffic- remember that heroin was a problem in US communities prior to the recent migrant surges. Heroin is still here and now meth has taken hold.
US Troops at the border, El Chapo takedown, opioid lawsuits, REAL ID, Homeland Security grant money, CBP social media posts, strict post 911 security protocols and a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security fail to keep bad guys from moving 50 pounds of methamphetamine into Oak Harbor:
October 25, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Feds bust alleged meth smugglers in Oak Harbor
“The federal task force behind the high-level narcotics trafficking investigation is known as BEST, which is short for Border Enforcement Security Task Force.”
Border Enforcement Security Task Force?
Question for newspeople:
Is the local meth situation linked in any way with the US/Canada border?
“It is comprised of law enforcement from Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Customs and Border Protection Air Marine Operations, Border Patrol, Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.”
Question for newspeople:
Has local Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations been able to intercept any meth headed to Whidbey Island, or do they react after product arrives in local communities?
Is local CBP staffing and infrastructure at all relevant in keeping heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or meth from entering the Olympic Peninsula, or the Puget Sound area?
Island County Homeland Security-funded patrol boat
Back in 2014:
Island county to purchase new patrol boat to help with Puget Sound security:
Federal grant money goes to “…gain a better grasp on cross border activity and to prevent illegal crossings.”
“Funding for the boat was issued through the Homeland Security Grant Program under Operation Stonegarden.”
Questions for newspeople:
Has there been any post 911 history of maritime “cross-border activity” on Whidbey Island?
Has the Island County Homeland Security-funded patrol boat been involved in any arrest or seizure related in any way to the US/Canada border?
Real ID
Love to see newspeople schedule an interview with the US Dept. of Homeland Security & ask:
Are passports/enhanced/Real IDs effective in keeping cartel-sourced heroin and meth out of the US?
Standard driver’s licenses have not been accepted at the border since 2009.
Lessons Learned?
Anytime there is a plane crash, or an industrial accident, a thorough investigation takes place. Lessons learned are used to prevent future accidents. Any similar effort after a big drug bust?
Preventing drugs from entering local communities would kill the chance for various agencies to get publicity for the occasional big drug bust happening in those communities:
Whidbey Island
“City, county, tribal and federal law enforcement took part in a drug bust in Oak Harbor Wednesday that resulted in the seizure of 50 pounds of methamphetamine and the arrest of two men, according to a press release from Oak Harbor Police Chief Kevin Dresker.”
“The federal task force behind the high-level narcotics trafficking investigation is known as BEST, which is short for Border Enforcement Security Task Force. It is comprised of law enforcement from Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Customs and Border Protection Air Marine Operations, Border Patrol, Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.”
Seattle area
“Federal, state and local law enforcement fanned-out throughout the Puget Sound region Wednesday, arresting 17 people – two from Auburn, another from Pacific – in connection with multiple counts of drug trafficking, U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran said.”
“In the last year, DEA working with other federal, state and local law enforcement, have seized 3,400 pounds of methamphetamine, representing a record amount for the region.”
“In addition to the agencies listed above, these law enforcement agencies assisted with the arrests and search warrants executed today: King County SWAT, Valley SWAT, Pierce County SWAT, Washington State Patrol SWAT, Lakewood Police Tactical Team, Valley Narcotics Enforcement Team (VNET), Joint Narcotics Enforcement Team (VNET), West Sound Narcotics Enforcement Team (WestNet), Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, Grays Harbor Sheriff’s Office, Hoquiam Police Department and Aberdeen Police Department.”
“The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew Colasurdo and Marci Ellsworth.”
Snohomish 2015
Local law enforcement agencies may benefit when the US Dept. of Homeland Security fails to keep heroin out of the US:
Seattle media: Heroin busts could finance police construction in Snohomish
Drug Take Back Day
A huge success for the legal drug dealers- they sold more than 12 million pounds of medications to people who did not need them:
WSFA October 26, 2019
DEA holds annual Drug Take Back Day
More here:
Port Angeles Drug War Covered By Press Release
Press Plays The Role of Armed Forces & Homeland Security Public Affairs Staff
Homeland Security Meth/Heroin Racket Rolls On
If you run a government operation- these are the reporters you want to see on interview day:
Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
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South entrance- Port Townsend Ship Canal
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.”
If the U.S. Armed Forces protect the right to vote- 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?
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?
It turns out The Troops were in no hurry to enable all adults to act on their right to vote.
US Military operations conducted in the 1940s, 50s & 60s didn’t get the job done.
It wasn’t until July of 1971 that 18 year old adults could take delivery on one of the freedoms we hear so much about.
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.
The Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars goes back to 1949.
More here:
If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms…
Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part
Not OK to question undeclared and unwon wars that never end
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
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
Saw some really nice worms while raking wet leaves out there today.
High on life in the world of composting.
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?
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.
The Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars goes back to 1949.
WA Secretary of State:
“Our right to vote is protected by the extraordinary men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.”
Is there any case in which the US Armed Forces have been sent to distant lands on a mission to protect a Washington State citizen’s right to vote?
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?
With all this talk of freedom- would it be OK to grow a marijuana plant in the back yard?
Can I take my 20 year old girlfriend (a responsible adult) down to the bar to order up a few beers for freedom?
Should we check with the Joint Chiefs of Staff first?
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?
It turns out The Troops were in no hurry to enable all adults to act on their right to vote.
US Military operations conducted in the 1940s, 50s & 60s didn’t get the job done.
It wasn’t until July of 1971 that 18 year old adults could take delivery on one of the freedoms we hear so much about.
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.
In the weeks ahead, public school teachers will host Veterans Day (not Armistice Day) assemblies, where young students will be told that The Troops, and veterans before them were sent to distant lands to defend American rights and freedoms.
This idea does not stand up to questioning and mostly will not be questioned by traditional veterans groups, public school teachers, moms, dads, students or the press.
“The Story of Veterans Day presents all of us with an excellent opportunity to show our appreciation for the tremendous contributions veterans have made, which enable so many of the rights and freedoms we enjoy every day.”
Are teachers planning any lessons or discussions to learn more about how American rights and freedoms are enabled by wars in distant lands?
Here is a question I’d like to see asked by a 5th grader:
Why do we speak of the US Armed Forces as if they function as some sort of giant civil rights organization?
More here:
Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part
Not OK to question undeclared and unwon wars that never end
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
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- October Sun
The Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars goes back to 1949.
Oct 21, 2019 The Daily Beast
Video: ‘The View’ Doubles Down on Hillary Clinton’s Tulsi Claim: She’s a ‘Useful Idiot’
The View hosts clash on Clinton attacks against Gabbard:
Foreign policy disaster update:
Whatever happened to the formal congressional declaration of war?
This would be the time to hear from elected leaders and top generals on all the issues that have doomed the Department of Defense track record for winning wars since DOD was established in 1949.
More here:
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-
Detailed reporting and a large number of meaningful reader comments here:
Oct. 19, 2019 The Seattle Times
Instant analysis: Three impressions from No. 25 UW Huskies’ loss to No. 12 Oregon
When a sports team falls short, hometown loyalty does not stand in the way of questioning players, coaches, referees, team owners, league rules, etc.
No similar open & honest discussion seems to exist Re: the Dept. of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars.
If the US Armed Forces were an NFL team, or a top 25 college football team, sports talk radio would feature comments like: DOD was nowhere to be found on 911. We haven’t won a war since.
Glorifying Military Service
No similar open & honest discussion seems to exist Re: the idea that undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands are somehow linked to American rights and freedoms.
Both major political parties, sports announcers, public school teachers, and the press promote the idea that wars are for freedom. This idea does not stand up to questioning and mostly will not be questioned by traditional veterans groups, public school teachers, the press, or readers commenting on news-related web sites.
Congressman Derek Kilmer:
Wars are for freedom and democracy.
When the US returns from an undeclared war or military conflict without a victory- what becomes of American rights and freedoms?
The family friendly, hometown pride-oriented local small town papers and TV news folks not only shy away from asking questions, they promote urban legends about freedom.
“For the past couple of years, the Whidbey News-Times paid the insurance for the Veterans Day Parade, about $200, because it was a small way of saying thank you to the men and women who sacrificed so that we may have our liberties, including our Freedom of Speech.”
Were US troops sent to Vietnam so that Americans could be free to send letters to the editor?
Is there any case in which the US Armed Forces have been sent to distant lands on a mission to protect freedom of speech?
Is protecting freedom of speech even part of training scenarios?
Veterans protect freedom of speech?
1965
Did the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to safeguard American freedoms?
Was it the Viet Cong that restricted rights to freedom of speech or expression in public schools?
JUNE 10, 2019 TIME
High School Students’ Graduation Speeches Keep Getting Censored. But They’re Seen by Millions Anyway
“In 1965, a young Iowa middle schooler named Mary Beth Tinker decided to wear a black armband to school to protest the war in Vietnam. She was suspended for doing so, eventually leading to 1969 Supreme Court case Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District. In a 7-2 decision, the court found that students at public schools maintain their First Amendment right to free speech.”
Urban legends about freedom
A popular slogan around here: Jet Noise is the Sound of Freedom
Maybe the sound is the reminder of a Dept. of Defense that is not good at winning, preventing, or shutting down wars.
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.
Why do we pretend that the US Armed Forces function as some sort of giant civil rights organization?
In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.
In terms of American rights and freedoms- The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.
Many veterans claim to have served to protect American rights & freedoms.
How does this work?
Black people were still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory.
Women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI.
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?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
Why, in 1967 was an interracial couple sentenced to a year in jail for violating Virginia’s ban on marriage between people of different races? Where were The Troops?
With all this talk of American rights and freedoms- would it be OK to grow a marijuana plant in the back yard? Can I take my 20 year old girlfriend (a responsible adult) down to the bar to order up a few beers for freedom?
Should we check with the Joint Chiefs of Staff first?
More here:
Did the speech mention Armistice Day?
Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part
Let’s Honor The Troops In Honest Ways
Military Town – Hometown Pride
Navy on Whidbey is a Matter of National Security?
Armistice Day Is Now Free Chow Day
Too Many Lies From Veterans – Straight Out of a Land of Make Believe
Sports Culture Tends to be Open and Honest
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-
A symbol of a culture where voting and giant flag rituals at sporting events are highly emphasized, while asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.
Geography note:
A line from Point Partridge to Point Wilson is the boundary between Admiralty Inlet and of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Waiting on a wave at Point Partridge
Local trails overview here:
Fort Ebey Surf Forecast
Point Partridge Tide Predictions
Article describing local surf conditions:
Surfing on Whidbey Island Fort Ebey State Park
Fort Ebey
When did scary Halloween decorations turn into this?
Related:
Stay in your homes and wait for further instructions.
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Both major parties are OK with controlling people while telling us that wars are for freedom.
Freedom
“…the men and women of the armed forces guarantee our freedom…”
“For now, the skies above the Olympic Peninsula belong to the Navy’s mission of defending freedom. What that sounds like is up for debate.”
Congressman Derek Kilmer:
Wars are for freedom and democracy.
April 14th, 2019 Press Release from the office of U.S. Senator Susan Collins
Senator Collins Attends 286th Combat Service Battalion Hero Send Off Ceremony
70 Bangor-based Maine National Guard soldiers are deploying to Poland in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve
“There is no cause more noble than preserving America’s freedom…”
With all this talk of freedom- would it be OK to grow a marijuana plant in the back yard?
Can I take my 20 year old girlfriend (a responsible adult) down to the bar to order up a few beers for freedom?
Should we check with the Joint Chiefs of Staff first?
Controlling People
Is the freedom talk is just for federal holidays and overseas military operations?
Canadian baby boomers being banned from U.S. for admitting they used pot years ago, lawyer says
Pledge of Allegiance
Making small children recite a loyalty oath indicating Liberty and Justice for all.
When they get a little older, they will see that they are pledging allegiance to a system where adults are divided into groups of first and second-class citizens.
Alcohol, marijuana, tobacco and firearms restrictions are in place for 18-20 year old adults. Is there any state where recreational marijuana laws remove prohibition for adults at age 18?
Are veteran’s organizations working to restore these freedoms?
Will the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to take a stand against dividing adults up into groups of first and second-class citizens?
More here:
Adult Products May Be Harmful To Children?
Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part
TV helps us to think by offering up contained choices:
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- Port Hadlock scene
October 11, 2019 Peninsula Daily News
Veteran’s background questioned
Well done. Significant research was required to investigate this story. Very complete reporting here. Much appreciated.
Leaving the comment section in place would have been a plus. It may have resulted in comments showing appreciation for this style of reporting.
Love to see similar reporting Re: Port Angeles CBP and their role in keeping drugs out of town.
US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA
An upgrade in staff requiring a new, $11.9 million, 50 agent facility. Secret arrest statistics, denied FOIA requests, heroin and meth in the community, no cross-border USBP arrest in more than 9 years, fraudulent overtime claims, 1,200-horsepower interceptor boats and zero questions from the press.
Related:
Port Angeles Drug War Covered By Press Release
Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree
October 9, 2019 Tacoma News Tribune
Myriad problems led to JBLM soldier dying after pinned under Stryker, investigation finds
Well done to Alexis Krell and the Tacoma News Tribune. Some news outlets would have gone with whatever press release was provided by Joint Base Lewis–McChord.
This story required extra research:
“Under the Freedom of Information Act, The News Tribune requested records of the investigation into Watters’ death, which the newspaper received Monday.”
Detailed reporting and meaningful comments here:
October 6, 2019 The Seattle Times
Stanford stuns No. 15 Washington in merciless, methodical thrashing
Why doesn’t this style of reporting cross over to stories about the US Dept. of Homeland Security, big drug busts, or the Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars?
We’re still seeing frequent shootings in the Puget Sound area.
WA voters approved enhanced background checks back in 2014:
November 4, 2014 Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Washington voters choose gun control; huge majority in Seattle area
Any reporting or updates on this?
JFK speaks about the role of the press in a free society:
Related:
Press Plays The Role of Armed Forces Public Affairs Staff
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
Watching over the Bluff Trail at Fort Ebey.
