Putting Life Back Together as a J6’er

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Received from a friend. Published by request

Too many Americans are completely unaware of the hardships that both the government and people who turn a blind eye toward the truth of January six have caused and continue to cause.

The Battle to Be Heard Goes On!

March 24th, 2026

To One and all!!

Update: I’m still working on the lawsuit against the government. Much like all wrongfully imprisoned Americans!!

On the job hunt: When I was looking into AMWAY back in the 90’s, and ADVOCARE in the early 2000’s. I learned one thing.

 “Network, or Don’t Work.“

I applied my awesome skill set, to the local markets where I’m currently located. I put in a ton of applications for various employment in and around the area.

I was shocked and awed when I received a phone call from a local Farm (The farm has a ton of things going on; Local Market, Acre’s of Vegetable Gardens, Tree sales, Plants, Christmas Trees in the winter, on and on.) $18.00 hour. I was to come in and report for an interview ASAP.

I put my best work clothes on (in case I was to start that day), then fueled up my truck. Showed up about twenty minutes early. Practiced what I would say. I thought about a million different topics that I may be asked, and how to answer. This will be my first interview in about three decades. I was a bit nervous (unlike the interview by the FBI when I turned myself in.)

When the time came. I was taken into a meeting room where I met three different individuals.

“Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from? How long were you in the military? What have you been doing since you retired? What are you doing here in this state? Wow, when can you start? You seem like a nice guy.”

I was given paperwork to fill out. I gave them a copy of my DL. Spoke with the owner. I was excited. The interview went well. I felt positive about this. They walked me around the entire operation. Introducing me to numerous employees. I went home and took my girlfriend out for lunch. We were jumping around in the parking lot, looking stupid. Yes! I got a job! It’s going to get better from here!!!!! Just like the military, I’ll climb the Ladder of Success on the backs of my peers! Get a shirt with my name on it! Buy some rubber boots for the muck! Get another pair of work pants. Get a Super Man Lunch Box!!! Yes!

We didn’t finish lunch when I received a phone call from the owner.

“Jeff, hey. I’ll be frank with you for a moment. We looked your name up, and we’d like to speak with you. Can you come back and answer a few questions?”

Sure. I’ll be there in an hour. I knew exactly what he was talking about. I didn’t finish my lunch.

This time, there were five people in the same conference room. All waiting on me.

Hiring Manager: “Jeff, thanks for coming back. We did a background check on you. You were at January 6th? We watched a ton of videos about you. I gave this information to the others. This is why you are here.”

I replied: Would you like to hear some of it? Maybe my side of the story? Because there’s more than what you know. Like how I got there, and what’s happened to me since I turned myself into the FBI?

“Well Jeff. I’m sure it’s a good story. But we run a good organization and have young people working here that are impressionable. They wouldn’t do well if they knew who was working alongside them. We would like to thank you for coming by and speaking with us. But we can’t take you at this time. Thank you, Jeff. Have a good day.”

Everyone left at one time. I sat in the parking lot thinking. What just happened?

Wanna know what true embarrassment Is?

Supporting/Serving my country with my life after 30-years, can’t find a job because of corrupt teams 54,64,74 of the MPD. Corrupt Politicians. I was told false promises by the very same people I voted for. Watched the “Thin Blue Line” destroy women and men who were unarmed. Knowing the names and actions of corrupt law enforcement and telling my attorneys about it. With no response. Sent to Ft. Worth TX because my attorneys didn’t want to represent me.

This’s been happening since the moment I was released.

I told all of you! The Government arranged this to happen to the American People because of their hatred to our President. We found it on video. Tried to tell our attorneys.

No one is listening!

Guerrilla Warfare.

They want everyone around you to know! This is what happens when you speak out against the Democratic Government.

I’ll never get employment in a quality job. I’ll never vote again. I will never trust Attorneys, nor Government officials, again!

I also relayed this information to my Legal Team. No Response from them. Shocking…………

That is my dream. This is my nightmare. Everyday.

What do I tell my kids?

Dad can’t afford to pay for your school clothes and food. Good luck working your way through college. No money for your wedding day. No money for you to fall back on. Dad is still trying to keep himself off the street corner with a cardboard sign.

At what point does the American public open their eyes? Where are you,America? Where are you when I need you the most?

What will you do when they come for you?

Jeffrey McKellop

U.S. Army (Retired)

3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne)

ODA 394 / 396

Jeffrey McKellop’s GiveSendGo page can be found here.

State of affairs: The Jetties of the Little Wicomico River and Chesapeake Bay

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Jetty Degradation on The Little Wicomico River: Economic and Safety Impacts

The degradation or impassibility of jetties, which facilitate ingress and egress between the Little Wicomico River and the Chesapeake Bay, can have significant economic impacts across multiple sectors. Jetties are designed to maintain navigation channels by preventing sediment deposition, but their failure due to shoaling and structural erosion disrupts this function, leading to cascading economic consequences.

For tourism, the inability to access waterways via these jetties can deter recreational boating, fishing, and ecotourism activities. These activities are major drivers of local and regional economies, and disruptions can lead to reduced visitor numbers, decreased spending at marinas, restaurants, and local shops, with a decline in seasonal revenue. The loss of access to scenic or ecologically rich areas can diminish the appeal of the region as a tourist destination.

Aquaculture operations, particularly shellfish farming and other aquaculture activities located near or dependent on these waterways, face substantial risks. Shoaling and structural erosion can block access to critical farming sites, hinder the transport of seed stock and harvested products, and increase operational costs due to the need for frequent dredging. This can reduce productivity and profitability, potentially leading to business closures.

Local marine industries, including commercial fishing and boat repair services, are also adversely affected. Reduced access to fishing grounds and delays in vessel maintenance or deployment due to navigational hazards can lower catch rates and increase operational downtime. The need for emergency dredging or structural repairs further strains resources, especially for small businesses.

Real Estate property values in local communities are closely coupled with access to Chesapeake Bay waters through the jetties and the perceived stability of the shoreline. When jetties degrade, and navigation becomes unreliable, property values can decline due to increased risk of storm damage in proximity to the jetties, reduced recreational appeal, and diminished quality of life. Homes and businesses located near affected waterways may become less desirable, leading to lower demand and reduced marketability.

The stability of the local population can be threatened as economic hardships accumulate. Job losses in tourism, aquaculture, and marine industries may force residents to relocate, leading to a shrinking population and reduced community vitality. The long-term sustainability of the area may be compromised if infrastructure degradation is not addressed, potentially resulting in a cycle of decline that is difficult to reverse

Safety Impacts on Sea Rescue Operations at Smith Point Marina

Degraded or impassable jetties at the mouth of the Little Wicomico River pose significant safety risks to Sea Rescue operations based at Smith Point Marina. Shoaling and structural erosion reduce navigable depth, increasing the likelihood of vessel groundings—especially for larger rescue craft or during low tide.

Internet search results confirm local claims that the jetty channel has been grounded in as little as 2.5 feet of water, despite being designated for 8-foot depths. This forces rescue teams to delay or reroute responses, particularly for deep-draft vessels like Rescue III. In one documented incident, a sailboat grounded in the jetties required extensive effort to dislodge, prolonging response times and increasing risk during deteriorating weather.

Additionally, low tides and shoaling prevent safe transit for rescue boats attempting to assist disabled vessels. For example, a 2025 incident noted that a deep-draft yacht could not be towed to Smith Point Marina due to low tide at the jetties, forcing an alternate route to Cockrell Creek. This limits operational flexibility and endangers both mariners and rescuers, especially during storms or medical emergencies.

During a November 2024 nor’easter, a sailboat grounded on Fleeton Bar required Coast Guard helicopter evacuation after Sea Rescue crews were unable to safely deliver a towline due to hazardous sea conditions exacerbated by restricted access and shallow waters. This highlights how jetty degradation can escalate routine rescues into high-risk operations, requiring external air assets and increasing danger to all involved.

Volunteer crews must also navigate poor visibility, strong currents, and submerged debris near eroded jetties, further compromising safety.

The Silence in the Noise

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I spent Tuesday handing out sample ballots in my district. I was gonna be there all day with only a 2-hour break. Several people cycled through the other tent, and I spent some time talking with each of them.

Are there those who don’t believe anything they didn’t hear on CNN first? Yes – in numbers.
Are there those who radiate arrogance and a false air of superiority? Yes
Are there those who would stand in their burning living room and deny their house was on fire? Yes.

There was a referendum on the ballot to rein in control of the School Board by making it an appointed board. The referendum was triggered by significant financial malfeasance, resulting in substantial property tax increases.

Yet, I heard some of these people blame the Board of Supervisors for the increase in property taxes (that is a total lack of understanding of how the system works). I heard insane attempts at defending the School Board. Having been somewhat immersed in the problem the past few years, I’m aware of exactly where the problem lives. If one individual had stepped down from the School Board several years ago, the referendum wouldn’t have come up.

In a community where School Board members run unopposed nearly 80 percent of the time, I heard, “I don’t want to give up my voting rights.” Err, um… my rubber stamp.

I interacted with those who had read the Democrat talking point training material. An exception renders a point invalid. Dual realities can’t exist, and so on.

One of my Democrat counterparts asked why we didn’t mark a suggestion on our sample ballot for the referendum. My answer was that it would be unethical to divide opinions on party lines for a non-partisan issue. The discussion went silent.

In a larger context, my side, my team, played it poorly.

I’ll use this referendum as an example of how errors were made.
In the beginning, a group of supporters of the referendum, Republicans, gathered to address how to collect signatures. Didn’t invite a single Democrat. It was a non-partisan referendum – one would think. Further, and by way of advertising and letters to the editor, the group continued to make it partisan.

Democratic teachers supported the referendum at personal risk. But those who weren’t paying attention defaulted to “If the Republicans came up with it, I’m opposed to it.” The word Republican is interchangeable with Democrat here.

NOTE TO SELF: Don’t make universally applicable concerns partisan if doing so is avoidable.

That last bit is the root of the problem in America. Neither side is comfortable with an idea from the other side. It’s a fact. And, perhaps, for good reason. How we got here is a huge discussion that I’ll save for later. Based on Tuesday’s experience, the idea, locally, of working with Democrats is more offensive to Republicans than working with Republicans is to Democrats, though neither side likes the idea. Perhaps justified. Why would I say that? I had occasion to talk to a couple of guys from the local Democratic committee. The discussion was about a problem both local Democrats and Republicans should be concerned about. The problem? The largest employer in the community is under political attack from a group that neither side supports.

As a JFK Democrat (a Republican), I am loath to dismiss, out of hand, someone whose life experience is predictably different than mine (to include what news sources are trusted sources).

In our community, we don’t have a strong business environment. Jobs are scarce, and those that are available are usually not the type one would build a career out of. So, when taxes go up, it sucks – a lot. If we lost our largest employer, it would suck a lot more. In this case, it doesn’t matter why both sides agree, only that they do.

I will disagree with the majority of today’s Democrat dogma to my dying day. But I’ll listen to them. To do otherwise would be like driving at night with one headlight. That said, I will go full-on Charlie with them whenever possible.

I could go on writing about this for days – I won’t. But I have a bipartisan message for America and my local community:

Grow up, wise up, and pay attention. Research. Avoid multi-billion-dollar media outlets. Participate outside of echo chambers. Make your beliefs your own. Just because someone says something doesn’t make it so, unless they have verifiable receipts.

An Open Letter (rant) from a Great American Patriot

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Posted with permission from the author.

 
To whom it may concern,
 
There’s been a lot of chatter on social media about what a certain type and group of people may do once their government assistance runs out. There’s talks of hunting down, robbing, and hurting people that look like me. While I’m sure there are some people that look like me that you may be able to get away with that kind of animalistic, predatory behavior. One that you seem to embrace as a community. However, let me explain something to you…
 
I was born into a single-parent home that later needed government assistance once my father left my mother. She was so embarrassed to use her $60 a month in food stamps so she would take a bus to other stores where neighbors were less likely to see her use them. She was on them for less than six months. She got two jobs, after sobbing at Christmas because she couldn’t afford to get her children Christmas presents. She made sacrifice after sacrifice to give me and my sister nice enough clothes not to be laughed at while we went to school in a “very racially diverse” Neighbourhood. She went to work wearing rags.
 
I was never able to fully appreciate her until I became a man. And sometimes I still don’t. I’ll never know what she went through as a young single mother trying to raise two children on her own. But she did it. She did it somehow with all odds against her. Because this country gave her the opportunity. Her family immigrated here from Russia and Czechoslovakia. Without a dollar to their name. She worked in a steel mill in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at the age of 18 years old.
 
She prayed for me every single day of her life. There’s no doubt in my mind that her prayers worked. So let me tell you this very straightforward as I possibly can. Because I am not the only one like me that looks like me. In fact, I’m far from it, that feels this way.
 
But if you think I’m going to allow you to take from me, or hurt anybody that I love because you refuse to get off your ass and do anything because you rely on the same government that you claim you are against, you better think twice. Because I would rather die where i stand over a quarter than allow an animal like you to take it from me. I am sick of being blamed for a Culture’s very own self demise. I am tired of hard-working everyday Americans being blamed for people that refused to do anything for themselves. Half-brain-dead mothers having ghetto children with no education and no guidance that teach them to hate other people because their mother is a useless whore. Well, mine wasn’t. And mine was born into an environment Worse than some of these animals will ever know.
 
If you love this country and you want to see us be the strongest nation on this planet for the next thousand plus years, then I care not what color your skin is. You are my fellow countryman. But if you blame other people that are caught in the same system that you’re too lazy to get out of because you vote democrat, please have a life insurance policy before you approach my family with your violence and hatred. But who are we kidding? You wouldn’t even know your Social Security number If it wasn’t for the fact that you had to put it on every government sheet you filled out for free shit in your lifetime…
 
FAFO!
 
Barry Ramey!

Identifying Indoctrination in our Education Systems

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Within the United States, and in fact across the globe, we see schools hijacked, indoctrinating generations of the young toward an agenda. While parents and communities protest, nation states and states within the US have been forcing this indoctrination, with the result being a total lack of critical thought processes for far too many. A lack of quality education and its gift of critical thought makes all of humanity weak, lacking the ability to resist or even identify propaganda.

When combating the core existential threat of global cultural indoctrination, distinguishing the similarities and differences between Education and Indoctrination is paramount.

Differences between Education and Indoctrination:

Education seeks to develop critical thinking, curiosity, and independent reasoning by presenting evidence-based information, encouraging questioning, and fostering open inquiry. It equips individuals with the tools to analyze, evaluate, and form their own conclusions.

Indoctrination aims to instill specific beliefs or ideologies, often without room for questioning or critical examination. It prioritizes conformity to a predetermined narrative, discouraging dissent or independent thought.

The key difference lies in intent and method: education empowers individuals to think for themselves, while indoctrination seeks to shape beliefs to align with a specific agenda.

Methodologies differ between the two as demanded by the differing motivations.

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The methodologies of education and indoctrination differ significantly in their approaches, goals, and execution. Below are key differences in their methodologies:

Education

  1. Critical Thinking and Inquiry:
    • Encourages questioning, skepticism, and exploration of multiple perspectives.
    • Uses Socratic methods, discussions, and debates to foster analytical skills.
    • Example: Students might analyze primary sources to form their own interpretations of historical events.
  2. Evidence-Based Learning:
    • Relies on empirical data, peer-reviewed research, and verifiable facts.
    • Teaches students how to evaluate sources for credibility and bias.
    • Example: A science class might involve experiments to test hypotheses, with results driving conclusions.
  3. Open-Ended Exploration:
    • Promotes curiosity and allows for ambiguity or uncertainty in answers.
    • Encourages students to pursue their own interests within a subject.
    • Example: A literature class might ask students to interpret a novel’s themes without prescribing a “correct” interpretation.
  4. Diverse Perspectives:
    • Exposes students to competing ideas, theories, or worldviews to broaden understanding.
    • Encourages respectful dialogue and consideration of opposing views.
    • Example: A history curriculum might include accounts from multiple sides of a conflict.
  5. Skill Development:
    • Focuses on teaching transferable skills like problem-solving, logic, and communication.
    • Aims to prepare individuals for independent decision-making in varied contexts.
    • Example: Math education emphasizes logical reasoning and problem-solving techniques applicable beyond the classroom.
  6. Feedback and Reflection:
    • Uses assessments to gauge understanding and encourage improvement, not enforce compliance.
    • Encourages self-reflection and metacognition (thinking about one’s own thinking).
    • Example: Essays or projects are graded with constructive feedback to improve critical analysis.

Indoctrination

  1. Dogmatic Instruction:
    • Presents a single worldview or ideology as unquestionably true.
    • Discourages or punishes questioning of the prescribed beliefs.
    • Example: A group might teach that a specific political or religious doctrine is the only valid perspective.
  2. Repetition and Memorization:
    • Relies on rote learning of specific ideas, slogans, or texts to instill beliefs.
    • Prioritizes acceptance over understanding.
    • Example: Repeatedly reciting a group’s manifesto without analyzing its content.
  3. Controlled Information:
    • Limits exposure to alternative viewpoints or conflicting evidence.
    • Filters or censors information to align with the desired narrative.
    • Example: Only providing texts that support a specific ideology while excluding others.
  4. Emotional Manipulation:
    • Uses fear, guilt, or loyalty to enforce adherence to beliefs.
    • Appeals to emotions rather than reason to shape attitudes.
    • Example: Framing dissent as betrayal or moral failure to discourage independent thought.
  5. Authority-Driven:
    • Relies on the authority of a leader, text, or institution to dictate truth.
    • Discourages individual interpretation in favor of obedience.
    • Example: A teacher or leader might insist their interpretation of a text is the only valid one.
  6. Punishment for Non-Conformity:
    • Uses social pressure, ostracism, or penalties to enforce compliance.
    • Assessments, if present, test adherence to the ideology rather than understanding.
    • Example: Students might be penalized for expressing views that challenge the group’s doctrine.

Summary of Differences

  • Education employs methodologies that prioritize intellectual freedom, critical analysis, and exposure to diverse ideas. It uses evidence, open dialogue, and skill-building to empower independent thought.
  • Indoctrination relies on control, repetition, and emotional or social pressure to enforce conformity to a specific belief system, limiting critical engagement and alternative perspectives.

These methodological differences reflect the core distinction: education fosters autonomy, while indoctrination demands allegiance.

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While education and indoctrination differ significantly in intent and methodology, they share some similarities, particularly in their structures and processes, which can sometimes make them appear superficially alike. Below are key similarities:

  1. Structured Delivery of Information:
    • Both involve organized systems for imparting knowledge or beliefs, often through formal settings like classrooms, lectures, or training sessions.
    • Example: A school curriculum (education) and a religious indoctrination program might both use structured lessons to convey content.
  2. Use of Authority Figures:
    • Both rely on teachers, leaders, or instructors to guide the learning process.
    • Example: A teacher in a classroom (education) and a charismatic leader in a cult (indoctrination) both hold positions of influence over learners.
  3. Repetition for Reinforcement:
    • Both may use repetition to reinforce concepts or ideas, ensuring retention.
    • Example: Education might involve repeated practice of math formulas, while indoctrination might involve reciting ideological slogans.
  4. Social Environment:
    • Both often occur in group settings, leveraging social dynamics to facilitate learning or acceptance.
    • Example: Classrooms foster peer interaction for collaborative learning, while indoctrination groups use peer pressure to encourage conformity.
  5. Goal of Shaping Perspectives:
    • Both aim to influence how individuals think or view the world, though their approaches differ.
    • Example: Education seeks to develop critical thinking about societal issues, while indoctrination seeks to align beliefs with a specific ideology.
  6. Use of Texts or Materials:
    • Both utilize books, texts, or media to convey ideas or information.
    • Example: A history textbook in education and a propaganda pamphlet in indoctrination both serve as tools to transmit content.
  7. Assessment or Evaluation:
    • Both may include methods to assess understanding or adherence, such as tests, discussions, or demonstrations of loyalty.
    • Example: Education uses exams to test comprehension, while indoctrination might test commitment to a cause through loyalty displays.

Key Distinction Within Similarities

While these similarities exist, the intent and execution differ sharply. Education uses these methods to foster independent thought and critical analysis, aiming for intellectual growth. Indoctrination employs them to enforce conformity and limit questioning, prioritizing adherence to a specific agenda. The overlap in structure can sometimes blur the line, but the underlying purpose—empowerment versus control—sets them apart.

Economic insights in Northumberland County Virginia (pt. 2) – The challenges

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In a previous post, we looked at economic opportunities in Northumberland County. Today, we’re going to take a look at a few challenges. Northumberland County, Virginia, faces several economic challenges that impact its development and growth. The county, located on the Northern Neck and part of the Northern Neck George Washington Birthplace AVA winemaking appellation, has a population of 11,839 as of the 2020 census.

Historical Context and Demographics

Northumberland County was officially formed in 1648, making it one of the oldest counties in Virginia. The county is located on the Northern Neck, bordered by the Rappahannock River to the south and the Potomac River to the north, with the Chesapeake Bay to the east. As of the 2020 census, the population was 11,839, with a population density of 41 people per square mile. The county has a significant water area, comprising 33.0% of its total area, which affects land use and economic activities.

Economic Challenges

  • Limited Industrial Base: The county’s economy is heavily reliant on a few key industries, such as seafood processing, manufacturing, and tourism. This lack of diversity makes the local economy vulnerable to market fluctuations and industry-specific downturns. Northumberland County has a relatively small and limited industrial employment base, with the lion’s share of employment positions held by just a few. The largest employers in the county include the Northumberland County School Board, Omega Protein, Manufacturing Techniques Inc., and the County of Northumberland. Again, while these employers provide jobs, the lack of diverse industries can make the local economy vulnerable to economic downturns and changes in specific sectors.

  • Rural Isolation and Infrastructure: The rural nature of Northumberland County, with a low population density of 41 people per square mile, presents challenges in attracting new businesses and investments. The county’s remote location and limited access to major transportation networks can deter potential investors. 

  • Workforce Development: The Northumberland County Economic Development Commission and Public Schools have organized a Career and Job Exposition to address workforce development issues. This event aims to connect job seekers with employers and highlight the skills needed in the local job market. However, the county may still face challenges in providing a skilled workforce that meets the needs of modern industries.

  • Infrastructure: The county’s infrastructure, including roads and utilities such as water, wastewater management, electricity, and broadband internet, may not be as developed as in more urban areas. This can hinder economic growth and the ability to attract and retain businesses that require robust infrastructure.

  • Tourism and Seasonal Employment: Tourism is an important sector in Northumberland County, with attractions such as the Indian Creek Yacht and Country Club and various seafood-related businesses. However, tourism is often seasonal, leading to fluctuations in employment and income. This seasonality can create economic instability for residents who rely on tourism-related jobs.

  • Agricultural Decline: Once a significant part of the county’s economy, agriculture has faced challenges due to changing market conditions and environmental factors. The decline in traditional farming activities has led to a reduction in agricultural employment and income. However, the county is part of the Northern Neck George Washington Birthplace AVA winemaking appellation, which offers some potential for agricultural diversification.

  • Economic Development Efforts: Despite these challenges, the Northumberland County Economic Development Commission is actively working to retain and expand existing businesses and attract new ones. The commission’s strategic plan focuses on enhancing economic activities to benefit all businesses and citizens.

These challenges highlight the need for continued efforts to diversify the economy, improve infrastructure, and develop a skilled workforce to support sustainable economic growth in Northumberland County.

Addressing Economic Challenges

  • Diversification of the Economy: Efforts to diversify the local economy are essential. This can include promoting small businesses, supporting the growth of the winemaking industry, and attracting new industries that align with the county’s character, resources, and strengths. Diversification can help reduce the county’s vulnerability to economic shocks and create more stable employment opportunities.

  • Investment in Infrastructure: Investing in infrastructure, particularly water and sewer management, transportation, electric grid, and any remaining high-speed internet dark spots, can improve the overall environment and attract new businesses. Better infrastructure can also enhance the quality of life for residents and make the county more attractive to potential investors and residents.

  • Workforce Training: Enhancing workforce training and education programs is crucial for developing a skilled labor force. Partnerships between local schools, community colleges, and businesses can provide targeted training and education that aligns with the needs of the local economy.

  • Support for Small Businesses: Providing support and resources for small businesses can help foster entrepreneurship and innovation. This can include access to capital, business development services, and networking opportunities.

  • Community Engagement and Collaboration: Engaging the local community in economic development efforts can ensure that initiatives are aligned with the needs and priorities of residents. Collaboration between local government, businesses, and community organizations can create a more cohesive and effective approach to economic development.

Summary Table

Economic Challenge

Description

Potential Solutions

Limited Industrial Base

Small and limited industrial base, making the economy vulnerable to sector-specific changes.

Diversify the economy by promoting small businesses and attracting new industries.

Agricultural Decline

Decline in traditional farming activities, reducing agricultural employment and income.

Promote agricultural diversification, such as the winemaking industry.

Tourism and Seasonal Employment

The seasonal nature of tourism leading to economic instability.

Develop year-round tourism activities and support seasonal businesses.

Rural Isolation and Infrastructure

Limited access to high-speed internet and modern transportation networks.

Invest in infrastructure, particularly in transportation and high-speed internet.

Workforce Development

Need for skilled labor and training programs.

Enhance workforce training and education programs, including partnerships with local schools and businesses.

Economic Development Initiatives

Limited resources and the effectiveness of economic development initiatives.

Increase support for the Northumberland County Economic Development Commission and foster community engagement.

By addressing these challenges, Northumberland County can work towards a more resilient and prosperous economic future.

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This post is based on the writer’s observations and other resources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northumberland_County,_Virginia
https://www.co.northumberland.va.us/edc
https://www.northumberlandcoc.org/economic-profile/

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Economic insights in Northumberland County Virginia (Pt. 1)

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This article is the first in a series of articles targeting economic climate and opportunities in Northumberland County Virginia
 
Northumberland County, Virginia, offers several opportunities in light manufacturing, based on the region’s economic structure and available resources. The following summarizes areas where opportunities may exist:

  • Value-Added Food Manufacturing:

 
Northumberland County benefits from its location, which could support the expansion or establishment of value-added food manufacturing. In particular, sea food. The county is part of Virginia, which has a higher location quotient for value-added food processes, indicating a specialization in this sector. This could include food processing units, packaging facilities, or specialized product lines like gourmet or organic foods.
Home to multiple aquaculture businesses, Northumberland County has room for growth.

  • Marine and Boat-Related Manufacturing:

Given Northumberland County’s proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, there is potential for manufacturing related to boating and marine activities. This might include boat construction, repair parts, or equipment like marine hardware and accessories.

  • Craft and Specialty Manufacturing:

The county could leverage its rural charm and natural resources for craft manufacturing. This might involve small-scale production of local crafts, artisanal products, or specialty items that can attract tourists or be sold online. Examples include wooden furniture, decorative items, or local-themed souvenirs. There has been recent movement in furniture manufacturing with a pending permit cross from Cygnets restaurant.

  • Agricultural Support Manufacturing:

With agriculture being a significant part of Virginia’s economy, there’s an opportunity for manufacturing agricultural equipment, tools, or parts. This could range from simple farming implements to more specialized machinery tailored for local farming needs.

  • Educational and Workforce Development Support:

 
While not manufacturing directly, Northumberland County has a supportive educational framework for light manufacturing through Northumberland County Public Schools and potential partnerships with broader educational institutions in Virginia. This can aid in workforce development for any new manufacturing ventures, particularly in areas like welding, supported by programs like the Rockbridge Area Advanced Manufacturing Project (RAAMP) for example in other regions. Developing similar post-high school training and education more locally to Northumberland would help foster and grow the local workforce.
 

  • Light Industrial Manufacturing:

As per general trends in Virginia, light industrial manufacturing jobs, including production operators, warehouse workers, and assembly roles, are available. Northumberland could attract businesses in this sector by offering incentives or utilizing the county’s strategic location for logistics.
 
Potential investors or entrepreneurs should consider local incentives, the availability of skilled labor, and infrastructure like transportation for goods distribution when exploring these opportunities. Engaging with local economic development offices could provide more targeted insights and support for establishing or expanding manufacturing operations in Northumberland County.
 
There are several topics presented here that will be unpacked in future updates to this article.

Disinformation via Deceptions of Omission

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The purpose of this article is to, hopefully, reign in the craziness around the internet regarding deceptive points made by accounts with large followings. To that end, this article is a single point in a galaxy of points to be made.

 
Too many stories are incomplete. In being abridged, they are deceptive. Words mean something. Leaving important words out of a story is a lie of omission.
 
For years now, there has been a lie running through the veins of social media. One claiming that individuals that we know have committed crimes against the people of the US will be subject to military tribunals. In some of the more bold cases, the claims are that such tribunals have already taken place.
 

Today’s word of omission is “Jurisdiction”

According to Cornell’s Legal Information Institute
“Jurisdiction can be defined as:
1) Power of a court to adjudicate cases and issue orders; or
2) Territory within which a court or government agency may properly exercise its power. See, e.g. Ruhrgas AG v. Marathon Oil Co. et al., 526 U.S. 574 (1999).
Jurisdiction: An Overview
One of the most fundamental questions of law is whether a given court has jurisdiction to preside over a given case. A jurisdictional question may be broken down into three components:
The claims of pending as well as ongoing military tribunals against civilians is presented with admirably designed deceit. In specific, the claim is that certain civilians are currently facing or will be facing military tribunals. Many of the persons in question are elected officials, extremely wealthy persons, and heads of national institutions.
 
These claims would necessarily require the military’s jurisdiction to leapfrog over the Constitutional jurisdiction of civilian courts – a terrifying concept as such an overtaking of the courts would have far-reaching constitutional implications.
 

So What is the Jurisdiction of Military Tribunals?

According to Aaron Meyer Law:
In general, anyone who is subject to military law can be tried by a military tribunal. This includes:
  • Members of the armed forces. This encompasses all individuals who are serving or have served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard. Active-duty personnel, reservists, and National Guard members are all subject to military law and can be tried by a military tribunal if they are accused of breaking the law.
  • Enemy combatants. Enemy combatants are individuals who are fighting against the United States in a war or other armed conflict. They can be tried by a military tribunal if they are accused of breaking the law.
  • Civilians working for the military. This includes contractors, employees of defense companies, and other civilians who are working for the military. Any of these individuals can find themselves subject to military law and in a military tribunal depending on the circumstances.

Again, words matter

The claims that civilians are subject to tribunals fail to articulate under what conditions any civilian might find themselves facing such tribunals. But in 1866, the US Supreme Court ruled on various questions in Ex Parte Milligan.
 
Justice Davis wrote the majority opinion, which was joined by Justices Clifford, Field, Grier, and Nelson. The majority opinion stated that so long as civil courts were active at home, it was unconstitutional to try American citizens by military tribunal. They also said that Congress did not have the power to authorize a military commission in Indiana.
The majority also laid out the three situations where military tribunals were appropriate. They stated that Milligan must be released immediately as his rights had been violated and he had not been given due process of law.
 
Ex parte Milligan 71 U.S. 2 (1866). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/71/2/case.html
 
This case laid out the three types of military jurisdiction (taken from the site previously linked here):
  1. “The first of these may be called jurisdiction under MILITARY LAW, and is found in acts of Congress prescribing rules and articles of war, or otherwise providing for the government of the national forces”
  2. “The second may be distinguished as MILITARY GOVERNMENT, superseding, as far as may be deemed expedient, the local law, and exercised by the military commander under the direction of the President, with the express or implied sanction of Congress.”
  3. “The third may be denominated MARTIAL LAW PROPER, and is called into action by Congress, or temporarily, when the action of Congress cannot be invited, and in the case of justifying or excusing peril, by the President, in times of insurrection or invasion, or of civil or foreign war, within districts or localities where ordinary law no longer adequately secures public safety and private rights.”
Point 3 is frequently misconstrued among those insisting that tribunals are happening under martial law or laws of war.
 
NOTE: DoD’s Law of war is specific to armed conflict. The manual does NOT apply to activities within the US and its territories; a condition where all bets are off. It is a document reflecting the DoD’s interpretation and application of international laws regarding how one state shall manage affairs within other states that it occupies.
 

Martial Law

Martial Law is a declared state – under all US jurisdictions. There has been no declaration of Martial Law within the United States since Abraham Lincoln. Had there been a declaration of martial law, the commensurate lockdowns would have been unmistakable.
 
The Constitution is an interesting document. It doesn’t define Martial Law, but it does define who can declare it (President, Congress, and, state governors). Declarations and their consequences are subject to Constitutional review.
 
To be clear, the entirety of the US is NOT currently under Martial Law, and it hasn’t been for more than 150 years. True, martial law has been declared 68 times in US history. All but one have been at the state or regional level.
 
If you’ve gained anything from this article, please share it.
 
Below is a list of core topics for the reader to explore:
 
The military is restricted concerning enforcement of civilian law (Posse Comitatus Act)
Civilians not associated with Military ops are not subject to military tribunal
The DoD Law of War manual (as updated in 2023) governs US military occupation of foreign nations/territories
 

Ignorance and Manipulation Continue to Run Deep

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During discussions on the school playground at the Northumberland County Board of Supervisors meeting held Nov 14th Holly Wargo, Tara Booth, and Dana Obier via Zoom, all demonstrated a fundamental lack of mathematical understanding. Or did they?
While discussing the fate of the NES playground, each argued that since reimbursements for previous projects have come in that those amounts are available to spend AGAIN. This is either jaw-dropping ignorance that should not exist in an educational institution at any level OR it’s a social manipulation born of the arrogant assumption that the tax payers are equally ignorant.

Before we get too far down the road, lets make sure everyone understands the basics of how grants work.

When the schools or any other department of government has a project that is outside the economic capabilities of, in this case the county’s, budget to just pay for outright, that department, in this case NUCPS, seeks a grant.
With an approved grant in hand, the financial risk to the county is mitigated. The county then is able and required to provide initial funding for the project – the grant money is not available for reimbursement until AFTER the project is completed. When the project is completed, the department files for reimbursement from the grant source providing evidence of completion. When the reimbursement arrives, the “Loan” made to the project by the county is paid off. Like a bank on a car loan, when you pay it off, they don’t just give you more money to go spend on what ever you want. You would need to apply for another loan to buy your next purchase.

More simply put, you can’t spend grant money twice.

This basic mathematical principal should be universally understood by school children and unquestioned by adults. Yet, here in Northumberland County, we have members of the School Board as well as the schools Administration who will tell you that reimbursement money is available for spending – seemingly indefinitely. And it isn’t. These are the people responsible for more than half of county revenue. Failing to understand basic finance math is unforgivable.

But is that all there is?

During the Board of supervisors meeting, Chip Williams had prearranged a presentation of sorts to be reviewed by Luttrel Tadlock. The history of issues with the playground go back at least to 2014. In the intervening years, there have been several imprudent missteps.
Most recently, there were a series of construction projects that were to be funded using an ESSER grant moneys. Only one project was child safety critical – the playground. In spite of Holly Wargo’s vehement declaration on June 15 of 2023 that the playground would be the priority, it wasn’t. It was put on the back burner in favor of less critical school infrastructure such as resurfacing of the track in support of state level sporting events – arguably nowhere near as critical as a rundown playground.
At the end of the day, NUCPS had the funds to repair and replace the playground and it didn’t happen. NOW, Dana Obier claims it’s on the county to pay for it, raising property taxes and erasing good efforts made on gaining control of the budget process. The School Board couldn’t do the right thing when they had the money. They made bad choices and now want the people of Northumberland County to pay to clean up the mess that they’ve made through gross neglect.

So, is the School Board this ignorant or are they playing politics relying on the people of Northumberland County to be ignorant?

To be fair, only one member of the School Board has been brazenly toxic on the topic – as is consistent with that member’s personality. There have been no public discussions on the playground by the School Board and no motions or votes providing direction from the School Board. Yet, it is School Board policy that in such cases, School Board action is required. To think that All School Board members are on the same page as Ms. Obier would be unreasonable. Surely the other members are aware of their own policies as would normally be the case for Administration and staff members. And yet we are faced with this conundrum; Are members of the School Board and Administration ignorant? It appears so.
They’ve spoken ignorantly to the topic of grant reimbursements while at the same time relying on the public to be ignorant enough to buy their story.
It’s a long road to gaining credibility on this topic for the Schools. With a long history of financial obfuscation, the people should be wary of how the schools move forward.

Remember

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Provided with permission by J6r – Taylor Johnatakis
Remember- 2/11/2024 
Engraved on the inside of my wedding band is the most powerful word of all, Lembre-Se, which is Portuguese (my wife and I met in Brazil) for REMEMBER.
It is upon the word remember that all knowledge is based. It is remembering what brought pain or pleasure that directs the instinct of man. Remembering takes lessons of the past, applies them to the present so that we can better choose our future.
Those who seek control, want to get you to forget. History repeats itself, to those who do not remember its lessons and patterns. Those whose fruit is bitter, want you to forget the awful taste and take another bite.
Remember why we fought for freedom, why we died for rights, remember what price was paid for truth and we will never go astray. If we forget, we must experience every pain again, every price paid twice or more, and truth will be forgotten.
Remember who, what, when, where and why and the future CAN be smoother sailing.
Government is built on consent, do we REMEMBER what that means? We would be wise to remember the landmark Supreme Court Case Erie v. Tompkins (304 U.S. 64, 58 S. Ct. 817, 82 L.Ed 1188) which holds there is no Federal General Common Law, it’s all Commercial…REMEMBER.