Trump vs the World

Donald Trump didn't just stir the pot he threw the whole thing out the window with these comments:

"When Mexico sends its people," Trump said during his presidential announcement, "they're not sending the best. They're not sending you, they're sending people that have lots of problems and they're bringing those problems. They're bringing drugs, they're bringing crime. They're rapists and some, I assume, are good people, but I speak to border guards and they're telling us what we're getting."


Trump's statement went viral and the PC Mob is ruling the streets looking to lynch the Donald and anyone near him. In this case Trump speaks the truth. Listen to his statement. He never says Mexican people are criminals and rapist.

The mob mentality seems to have blinded America. The Mexican government and several other countries are providing aide to segments of their population to cross the US border.We are naive and ignorant if we believe otherwise.

The governments are not alone. There are organizations, corporations and politicians providing legal and financial support to bring as many immigrants as possible. Their motivations are unclear but one can speculate for the countries of origin a decrease in welfare expenditures and a reduction in jail populations. On this side of the border political gain can be achieved by increasing a political base.

This tactic was originally engineered by Cuban dictator Fidel Castro. Castro sent prisoners, drug addicts and mentally ill people to the US. This over emotional backlash against Trump shows a fault in Americans ability to face reality. The governments of Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras and others have followed Castro's model. Each of these countries provide some level of support for their citizens to cross illegally into the United States.


In 2014 more than 7000 unaccompanied children under 12 were apprehended crossing the border. (How many were not apprehended?) The media and our politicians think we are so stupid we believe 7000 kids 1500 miles away woke up one cheery day and decided to leave their homes and walk to the United States. Although Trumps statement is crude his message is not far from the truth?

The southern neighboring governments are not going to allow their brightest, most educated and wealthy citizens to illegally cross our border. They are going to send the uneducated, the poor, the criminals and the sick.

There is another side Trump did not mention. A darker side the we must courageously address. Parts of Mexico, the Mexican government and the US border are controlled by drug cartels. On both sides of the border, elected officials, law enforcement and military are powerless to do anything. Drugs, weapons and people are smuggled across the border daily. A fence alone will not stop this illegal and very profitable trafficking. 


The United States is the greatest country in the history of mankind because she provides opportunity to all people. Throughout our history, the people who have been repressed and abused by their own governments come to the United States and achieve incredible success. And their success further improves our nation as a whole. It is imperative that our immigration laws are firm, fair and executed.

America must get over this feigned shock and outrage over Trump's statement. Its time to look at the realities of our immigration situation. Perhaps then we can identify the people desperately trying to hide the truth and shame anyone who has the audacity to mention it. For it is these people who threaten our security and future as a nation. Our immigration laws have been twisted and manipulated to the point they now resemble our IRS code. We need just and modern immigration reform. Before we begin we must take off the rosy colored glasses so we can see the real immigration crises. Only then can we begin a rational endeavor to reform these laws to provide opportunity and protection of all United States citizens present and future.
 

"Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

The United States is great because it is a country that allows its individuals to become great.  Castro sent us his people during the Mariel Boat-lift crisis. Many of those Cubans became successful prosperous citizens of the United States.. It is estimated that 10-20% were deliberately chosen by Castro because of their criminal background or mental illnesses.  It was a difficult transition not only for the refugees but their new neighborhoods as well. Violent crime spiked, the drug trade prospered and a strain was placed on the communities as they tried to provide needed social services.

We need to But the immigration laws were were designed to protect and provide for the people not the politicians.  

Immigration Laws: Too Confusing

Zero Deportations

In 1996 US Immigration law was amended. The word deportation was removed. Legally we no longer deport people. The term deportation has been replaced with the legal method a person is sent back to their country of origin. A person is either returned or removed. This type of administrative change may seem trivial but it adds to the confusion of of an already complex series of laws that govern the US Immigration policies. It also has provided an opportunity for the politicians to deceive the American public by comparing statistics that in truth are not compatible. In this case we are speaking about the claim that under the Obama administration more people have been 'deported' than in past administrations. A claim according to the numbers the Department of Homeland Security is completely false. 

First lets review the definitions. According to the Homeland Security Yearbook of Immigration Statistics of 2012 Removals and Returns are defined as follows:

Removals: The compulsory and confirmed movement of an inadmissible or deportable alien out of the United States based on an order of removal. An alien who is removed has administrative or criminal consequences placed on subsequent reentry owing to the fact of the removal. [DHS]

Returns: The confirmed movement of an inadmissible or deportable alien out of the United States not based on an order of removal.[DHS]

The following charts illustrate the drop in returning non citizens to their country of origin despite claims of President Obama and the media. These numbers come directly from the Department of Homeland Security.  

 

Yearbook of Immigration Statisitics  

People around the world want to become citizens of the United States. One reason is because our laws keep us safe and provide incredible opportunity for everyone. Since Obama has taken office the number of persons removed from our country has plummeted.

The President has turned our already confusing immigration laws into an entangled myriad of laws and executive orders that are now as complex as our IRS laws. The President has declared many Immigration laws to be voluntary. It is time the American people demand reform that will not only help the politically charged and heavily funded special interest groups but reforms that guarantee the laws can be understood, followed and work to protect and provide opportunity for all United States Citizens present and future.

Oppurtunity for Peace Lost

Peace Abandoned

President Obama August 20, 2012

“We have been very clear to the Assad regime, but also to other players on the ground, that a red line for us is we start seeing a whole bunch of chemical weapons moving around or being utilized.  That would change my calculus.  That would change my equation.”

President Obama's Red Line

White House spokesman Josh Earnest August 21, 2012

“As the President said yesterday in terms of Syria, we’re watching very closely the stockpile of Syrian chemical weapons; that any use or proliferation of efforts related to those chemical weapons is something that would be very serious and it would be a grave mistake."

November 2012

President Obama Re-elected President of the United States. 

August 21, 2013

A year after Obama's Red Line statement Ghouta Syria was struck with rockets containing Sarin gas. Sarin gas is a nerve agent that causes the victims to lose control of the muscles used to breath. The death toll from this assault was estimated between 280 to 1700 people. The world was horrified. It was 25 years since Iraqi President Saddam Hussein unleashed his own weapons of mass destruction against the Iranians during the Iran-Iraq war.

The attacks in Ghouta marked a unique time in history, the leaders of the Middle East stood together with world leaders in shock waiting for a leader to rise.

All eyes turned to Washington. President Obama returned to the White House on Aaug 19 after vacationing at  Martha's Vineyard decided it was best to go golfing Aug 25 and Aug 31. This marked the first time since World War II America did not attempt to lead after an international crises. The world became a darker place.

The Wisdom of our Founding Fathers

The American Flag at Headquarters Marine Corp beside Arlington National Cemetery

As we celebrate our Nations birthday I wanted to bring to attention the wisdom of our Founding Fathers.

There is no definitive guide that identifies our Founding Fathers. Some consider any patriot at the time who served or sponsored the effort to gain our Independence can be considered a Founding Father. Others say it is the signers of our Declaration of Independence or framed our Constitution. In 1973 historian Richard B. Morris wrote "Seven Who Shaped Our Destiny: The Founding Fathers as Revolutionaries". Morris identified John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and George Washington as the men who were key in the birth of our Nation and identified these men as our founding fathers.

Below you will find quotes from several of our Founding Fathers. Quotes that every American should read and consider.

 

 

John Adams

"But a Constitution of Government once changed from Freedom, can never be restored. Liberty, once lost, is lost forever."

Benjamin Franklin

"Having been poor is no shame, but being ashamed of it, is."

Alexander Hamilton

"A fondness for power is implanted, in most men, and it is natural to abuse it, when acquired."

Thomas Jefferson

"Cherish, therefore, the spirit of our people, and keep alive their attention. Do not be too severe upon their errors, but reclaim them by enlightening them. If once they become inattentive to the public affairs, you and I, and Congress, and Assemblies, Judges, and Governors, shall all become wolves."

James Madison

"Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives."

Thomas Paine

"A nation under a well regulated government, should permit none to remain uninstructed. It is monarchical and aristocratical government only that requires ignorance for its support."

George Washington

"Against the insidious wiles of foreign influence, (I conjure you to believe me fellow citizens) the jealousy of a free people ought to be constantly awake; since history and experience prove that foreign influence is one of the most baneful foes of Republican Government."

John Jay

"It is much to be wished that slavery may be abolished. The honour of the States, as well as justice and humanity, in my opinion, loudly call upon them to emancipate these unhappy people. To contend for our own liberty, and to deny that blessing to others, involves an inconsistency not to be excused."

How To Be Safe And Have Fun

There are so many things to do with the entire family during the 4th of July. While our nation is under a heightened alert we can safely celebrate our nation's birthday. Here are a few steps to help you remain vigilant without allowing fear or panic to overwhelm.

Plan Ahead

Make sure your children carry an ID. A simple piece of paper with their name and your contact information folded and placed in their pocket works well.

Write your phone number on their arms.

Talk to your children about behaving like an adult. Don't scare them make it fun. Remind them if they get lost to stay where they are until you get there.

Tell them if a police officer comes by to have them call the number on their arm or they see another family have them ask that Mom for help.

Don't make yourself a target. Keep jewelry and watches at home. Keep your phone from plain sight.

Dress appropriately for the event. Wear sneakers or comfortable walking shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather.

Bring water and some type of snacks for you and your children.

Dress your children in bright clothing to help them stand out so you can easily spot them

Let someone know where you are and when you are expected home.

Upon Arrival

The first thing you should do in entering an event is to observe the exits. This applies indoors as well as outdoors. If you are attending a parade know the main roads to get in and out of the area. Observe secondary routes in the event the main roads are blocked. 

Know the location of local hospitals and police departments. Many events will have a designated area for first aid and police to headquarter the event.


Decide on a designated area to meet in the event your family or friends get split up

If you are not on the ground floor know where the location of the stairs.

During the Event

Be aware of the people around you. Look for any unusual or aggressive behavior. If you feel uncomfortable near somebody move away instead of trying to confront them.

Be aware of any items such as backpacks bag or packages that are left alone. Move away from these objects and report them to security.   

Point out to your children the police officers, emergency personnel and security stations at the event. Walk up to them and introduce yourselves and thank them for helping keep everyone safe.

Stay sober

Conclusion

A little thought and preparation can keep you and your loved ones safe and allow you and your family to have fun and enjoy the event.

The Real Benghazi Tradegy

Dereliction of Duty

Every month from May through Sept of 2012 messages were sent to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, President Obama, every US military base as well as embassy and official US facility across the globe. These are normal warnings sent out around certain holidays or anniversaries to remind US personnel to be vigilant as celebrations may increase the chances of an attack.  The message specified possible attacks on July 4 and Sept 11 Anniversary and asked all personnel and commands to be vigilant for possible assaults against US facilities and interests. Additional remarks were made to insure personnel refrain from excessive July 4th celebrations that may flaunt or antagonize local residents.

In addition to these warning Ambassador Stevens sent emails and official messages explaining his concerns about security at the Benghazi complex and increased chatter that an assault on the facility may occur on the anniversary of 9/11. Ambassador Stevens followed up these messages with phone calls and personal requests for additional security at the Benghazi facility. Ambassador Stevens also suggested the temporary withdrawal of Benghazi personnel if security measures could not be increased.

Why would President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton refuse to listen to Ambassador Stevens.  Stevens was an experienced diplomat who understood the dangers of his position. He understood the situation on the ground and his pleas for help were certainly not unfounded they were only ignored. A leader that refuses to listen to their people is not a leader at all.

Brief Overview of U.S. Diplomatic Security:

United States diplomats, their missions and visiting foreign diplomats are protected by the United States Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), a branch of the Department of State.  A Regional Security Officer (RSO) is the main security adviser and attache to a US Ambassador serving in each Embassy or Consulate.The Ambassador and Regional Security Officer work together with the State Department to insure security is maintained at our embassies and consulates.

John Christopher Stevens was the US Ambassador to Libya from May 2012 until his death on September of 2012. Ambassador Stevens was very familiar with Libya having served as the Deputy Chief of Mission in Libya from 2007-2009. He also served in Libya as a special representative to the National Transitional Council in 2011 during Libya's revolution.

 Eric Nordstrom began his career as a Regional Security Officer in 2000. His first assignment was as an Assistant RSO in Honduras. He began his tour of duty in Benghazi in September of 2011 and was transferred in July 2012. 

Violence Erupts

December 2011: a terror plot in Benghazi was prevented. Warnings were sent describing many Islamic terrorists were operating in and around Benghazi.


April: An explosive device being thrown at a UN convoy traveling in Benghazi

May: An RPG was launched at the offices of the International Red Cross in Benghazi

June: An IED is detonated outside the US Benghazi consulate compound

June: An RPG strikes a convoy carrying the Ambassador from Britain. The UK realizing the deteriorating environment closed their consulate.

How Could They Be Ignored

March 2012: RSO Eric Nordstrom sent a request for additional security. This request was ignored or lost. 

July: US Ambassador Stevens and RSO Eric Nordstrom sent multiple cables to Washington requesting additional security.

July 9th: Ambassador Stevens files to extend a 16 man Mobile Security Deployment Team service which was set to transfer in August.

August 2: Ambassador Stevens requested protective detail bodyguard positions. Ambassador Stevens stated "the security condition in Libya ... unpredictable, volatile and violent."

August: the State Department removed the 16 man security force. 

August 8: Stevens sends another cable to State Department stating "a series of violent incidents has dominated the political landscape". Stevens made it clear these attacks were not random and called them "targeted and discriminate attacks."


President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton not only ignored the events and requests coming from Ambassador Stevens and RSO Nordstrom that clearly justified the need for additional security forces. Instead these "leaders" ignored the recommendations and recklessly reduced security. The removal of the multiple security teams and the Regional Security Officer was negligent and a dereliction of duty.

The real tragedy of Benghazi:

The real tragedy is the rabbit hole journey Congress, the media and the public have taken since the murders. We are too distracted to focus on the negligent actions and dereliction of duty by our leaders. We allowed ourselves to fall prey to the political maneuvers of leaders more interested in their political and financial gains then the welfare of our nation and its people.

Thoughts and Prayers

Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens, U.S. Foreign Service Information Management Officer Sean Smith. CIA contractors, Tyrone S. Woods and Glen Doherty and their families.

Paying for College

College Options

 Tuition costs have skyrocketed in the past 10 years. A college degree maybe a safe bet to help a person succeed but it's not a sure thing. Students and parents should be thoughtful in selecting a degree. Find a program that is marketable and interesting. Keep all options on the table. There are other options available to pursuit a higher education. Don't succumb to the social pressure of standing on line at the bank to start your line of school credit and ship off to a four year college or university. You don't have to do what everyone else appears to be doing. There are smarter ways to achieve your higher education goals.

The average price for college across the nation in 2014-2015 was $23,400. Private colleges are $46.000. It is easy for students to leave college owing over $100,000.00  

There are other options if money is tight or if you just want to save some of your hard earned money and do not want to graduate with 100k worth of student loan debt.

Community College:

A great place to start and students will pay less than $5000 a year. Coordinate with community college guidance office to study courses that will transfer to the state's 4 year colleges.

A person with an Associate Degree increases their marketability in the work force. An Associates degree will also increase the odds of getting a job and demands a higher wage than a person directly out of high school. 

Some states such as Virginia have coordinated programs that transfer all credits but upon completion of your Associates Degree guarantee acceptance. This is a fantastic deal for students saving money or did not take high school quite so serious.

 Tuition Assistance: 

The Associates Degree is not necessary to begin employment.  Dedicating the time to complete the two year degree directly out of high school places the individual on a fast track to completing their Bachelors degree.  Employers want motivated independent employees  Many employers will reimburse their employees tuition costs if they are attending college part time while they are employed. Companies know employees willing to invest and dedicate their free time to work towards a higher education are serious about their career and development. 

CLEP Test: 

The College Level Examinations program (CLEP) provide students with the chance to earn college credits in a few ways. College programs vary but many will take up to 12 credits on a variety of courses. The traditional CLEP tests cost $80 per course. A substantial savings in money and time. Coordinate with your school guidance office to insure you receive credit towards your degree.

Clep Test Subjects

Military:

The Post-9/11 GI Bill will pay your in state tuition and you may also qualify for housing, books and other expenses. The military can also train an individual get them the experience needed to launch their career. College courses are offered on base while active duty and the tuition is reimbursed. this provides the vet with the opportunity to get their college work started.

Military GI Bill

 Grants:

College grants like scholarships are not paid back. The Federal Government is the largest issuer of college tuition grants. To get started a student must register with Department of Education by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

FAFSA

Scholarships: 

Work hard in high school. Play sports join clubs, volunteer your time be involved throughout your high school career and you will drastically increase your odds of earnig scholarship money. In addition to merit scholarships for the top performing students there are millions of dollars worth of scholarships available from many non profit and for profit organizations. There are many web sites that offer guidance on the many scholarships available and inexpensive phone apps to aid in your search.

Scholarship Search 

Scholarship Phone App

Teamwork:

It is possible and sometimes necessary for an individual to work alone in educating oneself. It is easier with a family working together. Parents should start talking to their child while they are in grammar school about attending college. The talks should be age appropriate and geared towards inspiring the child to realize their education does not end in high school.