War On Terror News

Policing for Profit: Highway Robbery on a Suspicion, by the Government

In the practice of special counter-drug patrols, cars and semi-trucks are pulled over on excuses of small infractions. The targets have out of state license plates. They are then "asked" if they will allow a search of their vehicle. (Just say NO!) The police are looking for cash. The cash is then seized on the suspicion that it is drug profits. The driver is pushed to deny ownership to make the legal proceedings simpler. The cash is then kept by the law enforcement agencies involved in seizing it. If the Citizen wants his money back, the prosecutor's office requires them to fight for it, with lawyers, sometimes for years, at considerable cost.

While it was Tennessee's journalists that uncovered it here, these shakedowns are not just happening here.  News Channel 5, WSMV, Nashville has been investigating the illegal seizures of property for two years, since the Institute for Justice came out with their report.  What they found was an abuse of power, greed, and corruption.  It is clear from the words of those in power, those stealing from The People, that it is a breach of the Constitution.  The people of Tennessee are outraged over it, even though the police are targeting guests of our great state. 

The Institute of Justice points out that this practice is happening elsewhere.  It includes Michigan, Texas, and Georgia in its reports as being worse than Tennessee, and more than half the Nation gets graded at least as bad.  It found that in 2008, more than $1 Billion had been seized from individual Citizens and was being held by the Department of Justice's Assets Forfeiture Fund.  Download Inst for Justice - Policing for Profit

NewsChannel5.com | Nashville News, Weather

I encourage you to watch the video series.  The defense of the practice by prosecutors and police officers should enrage you.  When a police officer says "he didn't prove it wasn't drug money," it demonstrates a practice of "guilty until proven innocent."

"It is illegal to have proceeds." [of criminal activity], District Attorney General Kim Helper.  The "fact that no one ever claimed the money proves it was illegal."

"The doctrine of in rem  forfeiture arose from Medieval ideas, rooted in the ancient law of “deodand.” Kings, for instance, could seize an instrument that caused the death of another in order to finance the deceased’s funeral mass. The idea arose from a superstitious belief that objects acted independently to cause death."  Policing for Profit, Institute of Justice

 

NewsChannel5.com | Nashville News, Weather

There is nothing illegal about using and/or having cash.  I understand that in today's world few people use cash, but short of gold and silver, paper currency is still the closest thing to real money.

Constitutionally, it is the burden of the prosecutor and police to prove guilt in a crime, not the accused to prove innocence.  This fundamental premise must be upheld in law, in legislation, and in practice.

Constitutionally, you and your property cannot be searched without proof of cause.  It cannot be seized without Warrant.

"The right of the people to be secure in their persons, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures shall NOT be violated.." 4th Amendment, Bill of Rights, US Constitution

".. nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation." 5th Amendment, Bill of Rights, US Constitution

If you are pulled over and asked to forfeit your Rights, i.e., "Can we look in your vehicle?"  Just say NO!  It may be the practice, but it is un-Constitutional, for the government to presume you are guilty because you retain your rights.

What should happen now?  The Governor and Legislature of Tennessee should act to remove the excuse for unlawful search and seizure.  The Judges should clamp down on the practice and protect the Constitution they swore to uphold.  And beginning with the DAG Kim Helper, and including every official uncovered in Channel 5's investigation, demonstrating the corrupt and un-Constitutional "justification" for these roadside shakedowns should be fired, and stripped of any chance of ever being in a position of authority again.  Ms. Helper should be disbarred.

And Citizens of other States should press for their governments to do the same.  I'm all for seizing the finances of criminal organizations, but that money is not guilty of anything.  The owner of the money must be proven to have gained it through criminal activity, before it can be seized.

Related articles

Government, the Thief

Citizenship & Constitution: Your Freedoms and My "Right" to Restrict it

What Were the Founding Fathers Thinking!?!?

Tennessee: Appellate Court Upholds License Plate Roadblocks

Supreme Court doubtful on warrantless police detention

Government, the Thief

Disturbing Detention: Former Marine held for Facebook Rants

Tennessee Department of Safety to begin Christmas Holiday Enforcement December 21st

Syrian Prime Minister defects; TV station attacked

Syria's prime minister has defected two months after taking the job, saying he is joining the opposition to President Bashar al-Assad.

In a statement read in his name on Al Jazeera television Monday, Riad Hijab said he was leaving what he called “the killing and terrorist regime.” 

The statement said he and his family were in a safe place.  Jordanian officials said he had defected to Jordan.

Syrian state television said Mr. Hijab was fired and replaced by his deputy, Omar Ghalawanji.

The news came hours after state media said a bomb exploded at the state television building in Damascus, wounding several people. The station remained on the air following the blast, which ripped through the third floor of the building.

A pro-government, private TV station, which itself was hit with a deadly blast in June, broadcast images of the building's damaged walls, wires dangling from a collapsed ceiling and people walking through smoke-filled hallways.

Syrian opposition activists are reporting continued attacks by government forces in the northern city of Aleppo Monday.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says the army is shelling several neighborhoods in Aleppo, and that nationwide nearly 30 civilians had been killed.

Government and opposition claims in Syria are difficult to verify because journalists do not have freedom of movement.

Meanwhile, U.S. Senators John McCain, Joseph Lieberman and Lindsey Graham say the United States should provide direct assistance to the opposition, including weapons, intelligence and training.

In a joint opinion piece published late Sunday by The Washington Post, they say that the U.S. is jeopardizing its national security as well as its moral standing in the world by remaining on the sidelines.

The senators compared not aiding the rebels to the U.S. relationship with Kurds and Shi'ites in Iraq under Saddam Hussein and the Tutsis in Rwanda, saying inaction would haunt the nation “for years to come.” VoA.

OP/ED: Hawaii Five-0 needs to learn some respect for their betters

15 December 2011

Yesterday, I got wind of a disgraceful incident by the crew of a tv show towards our most precious Veterans of Pearl Harbor Day.  The news wires were reporting that a group of Pearl Harbor survivors - respected members of our Greatest Generation -  Veterans all in their 80's and 90's,  had made a pilgrimage to the PunchBowl Cemetary to hold a commemorative Service to honor their brothers who perished on that "Day in Infamy." 

This was to be a solemn, dignified service, but because of the presence of a Hawaii Five-0 tv crew, was turned into a terrible display of ignorance and disrespect.

The milblogs heard of this, and had the expected response:

Marine in Afghanistan asks Mila Kunis to the 3/2 Marine Corps Ball

Statement from Sgt. Scott Moore

2nd Marine Division

“The idea behind my YouTube invitation to Mila Kunis came about after some Marines from 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, and I were hanging out talking. One of the Marines bet that I wouldn’t make the video and post it. Of course, a bet between Marines must be honored, so I took the chance. You can't make shots that you don't take, so I took the best shot I could. The Marines of 3/2, my family and friends back home in Grove City, Pa. have been so supportive, and did a great job of getting the video a lot of attention. I'm very excited about the opportunity to share the experience with Ms. Kunis and would like thank her for accepting my offer."  [Video is below the break]

Mullen Discusses Afghanistan, Iraq, 'Don't Ask' on Letterman

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, June 14, 2011 - America's top military officer explained what members of the U.S. military have gone through during 10 years of war to the audience of the "Late Show with David Letterman" last night.

Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told David Letterman that the American people need to know what their armed forces are doing and the sacrifices service members and their families are making.

"We're in our tenth year of war," the chairman said. "We've had almost 2 million men and women serve in Afghanistan and Iraq. Some of them have seen horrors we can't even imagine."

These soldiers, Marines, sailors and airmen have deployed repeatedly. "Some of our big units, which would be a brigade of 4,000 or 5,000 soldiers, have deployed for a year at a time -- four, five, six times," he said. And then the units are home for a year.

BBC documentary to show Helmand through soldiers' eyes

A People In Defence news article

7 Jun 11 A new documentary series starting tonight on BBC3 uses footage shot by British soldiers serving in Helmand province on cameras mounted on their helmets to tell their stories. Report by Leigh Hamilton.

A soldier from 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment fires a 'Minimi' Light Machine Gun, while another directs his fire, during operations in Kajaki, Helmand province, in 2007 (stock image)
[Picture: Corporal Jon Bevan, Crown Copyright/MOD 2007]

The makers of 'Our War: 10 Years in Afghanistan' claim it will offer viewers, for the first time, the chance to see as close as possible front line action through a soldier's eyes.

The programmes are mainly based on video footage gathered via personal cameras that have been fixed on the helmets of British soldiers who have deployed to Helmand in the last 10 years.

There are three 60-minute episodes in the series, each one looking at a specific time in Helmand over the last 10 years, with key sequences made up from the helmet-mounted cameras.

The eyes we see the front line through include those of

Dog Whisperer auditions coming to Fort Hood

Fort Hood Public Affairs Office

03.15.2011 FORT HOOD, Texas -- Producers for the National Geographic Channel's Show, "The Dog Whisperer," will be at the Fort Hood Post Exchange Food Court, March 26, taking auditions for Cesar Millan's show. Anyone with a military identification card is eligible to audition.

The Dog Whisperer is currently accepting applications from anyone assigned to Fort Hood for an upcoming episode to be filmed, April 19-21. Fort Hood employees can nominate their family by attending the audition with their dog or by visiting the show's submission Web site at www.cesarsway.com/dogwhisperer/submissions. Applicants must videotape their dog's behavior and bring it with them to the audition.

The Dog Whisperer is looking for a variety of dog problems, including unusual phobias, obsessions, fearful behavior, aggression or any other unusual situations that Cesar Millan could help transform. For more information on the audition times, call the Post Exchange at (254) 532-7200.

Operation Cupcake: On TLC Tonight: Troop Support

At 10:30 PM (ET), 4 March 2011, on TLC, The Learning Channel, Cupcake Champs, Georgetown Cupcakes gets the biggest reward by doing the greatest thing they've done yet: baking and shipping 10,000 cupcakes to the Troops in Afghanistan. Admiral Mullen's wife, Deborah, guest-judges.

(Did they have to use pink boxes though?)

 It is always a pleasure to see Americans combine their expertise, their passions, their hobbies, and their businesses into a means of Supporting Our Troops, as these two sisters have done.  Sometimes, (most times) the gift of time and effort are much more effective than a gift of money.  The moral: think about what you enjoy and how you could include Veterans, Wounded Warriors, and Families in that effort. 

'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition' Builds Home for Fort Hood Shooting Victim

7th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment 

12.14.2010 Story by Spc. Ken Scar FORT HOOD, Texas - Staff Sgt. Patrick Ziegler reported to the Soldier Readiness Processing Center on post, returning early from his second deployment in Iraq to attend Officer Candidate School. For reasons that may never be explained, fate delivered him to that one particular building on Nov. 5, 2009.

Just after 1:30 p.m., Zeigler’s future, past, and everything he knew was blown into black by a gunman’s bullet from an automatic pistol. On that day, 13 people were killed and 32 others were injured.

Weeks later,

Rachel Maddow Show Broadcasts Live From Camp Phoenix, Afghanistan

196th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade
Story by Sgt. Rebecca Linder

07.11.2010  CAMP PHOENIX, Afghanistan — It’s not common when TV stars, celebrities or even news hosts come to a war zone, but Afghanistan was in for a treat when Rachel Maddow, the host of “The Rachel Maddow Show” of MSNBC, broadcasted her show live, July 7 and 8, from Camp Phoenix in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Maddow and her crew traveled around different parts of Afghanistan for nearly a week to report on the war effort and talk with servicemembers about their mission here. The show chose Camp Phoenix as a prime location in the capital to report the stories they covered during their visit.

Maddow is well known for her liberal viewpoint on news, but after watching her show, one Soldier had a different impression of her war coverage.

Strike Soldier Makes Final Cut in "Will You Marry Me?" Contest

Strike Soldier Competing for Chance to Win Dream Wedding

2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (AA) Public Affairs Story by Sgt. James Hunter

01.20.2010  FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. – At the age of 30, Staff Sgt. Cleveland "Sonny" Carr has been awaiting the opportunity to settle down with one particular woman the rest of his life. He's been married once and has dated off and on since then. It wasn't until he met, or reunited with, Maya Miller on Facebook that his life would seemingly change forever.

See, Carr is an infantryman with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), and has spent a good majority of his military career deployed in Iraq. He's been there three times now and is awaiting his fourth deployment this summer, when the brigade will take off for Afghanistan. Marriage is something Carr wanted, but the true love was never really there, until he met his soulmate in Miller.

Miller, a native of Chicago, has a similar situation as well. She too is a divorcee with two children she raises on her own. She, however, is a very independent woman, dedicated to her children and her work as a seventh-grade reading teacher in Chicago.

The two of them

Veterans' Benefit Frustrations - 60 Minutes {Video}

"Two wars and a recession have significantly increased the claims handled by the U.S. Dept. of Veteran's Affairs, slowing the large bureaucracy and frustrating many veterans. Byron Pitts reports."

 

Did you miss the 60 Minutes broadcast yesterday, January 3, 2010?  If so, here is the video of it.

 

Watch CBS News Videos Online

 

 

Please follow this link to view the comments left on the CBS 60 Minute site by people directly impacted by this.

 

 

NFL Sunday Pregame: From Bagram, Afghanistan

FOX NFL Pregame Show Kicks Off From Afghanistan

Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO by Capt. Michael Greenberger 11.10.2009 10:32

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – Nearly 1,000 screaming fans crowded the stage in the Morale, Welfare and Recreation clamshell tent as FOX's Terry Bradshaw, Jay Glazer, Jimmy Johnson, Howie Long, Curt Menefee, and Michael Strahan kicked off their NFL Sunday pregame show just in time for Veterans Day.

The show, brought to Afghanistan by FOX and Armed Forces Entertainment, was taped over two days rather than shot live, due to time restrictions and being overseas. The decision, however, allowed FOX to show several vignettes about life for service members in Afghanistan, shown in the 2-hour pregame show.

'Cake Boss' episode filmed at Joint Base McGuire to air Nov 9

by Capt. Dustin Doyle

621st Contingency Response Wing Public Affairs

Airmen, family and friends cheer as Buddy Valastro and his team of bakers from Carlo's Bakery deliver the cake for the 621st Contingency Response Wing's first-ever dining out. Carlo's Bakery, based out of Hoboken, N.J., is the focal point for TLC's hit show "Cake Boss." An episode featuring the cake built for the CRW dining out will air on TLC Nov. 9 at 9. p.m. Central time. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Jason Ramos)

11/6/2009 - Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. (AFNS)  -- Viewers of the hit television show "Cake Boss" will get a little taste of the Air Force mission when an episode filmed here in September airs on TLC, Nov. 9, at 10 p.m. Eastern time.

Air Force family's 'Extreme Makeover' to air Nov. 8

by Monica D. Morales
Air Force Materiel Command Public Affairs

11/3/2009 - WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFNS)  -- During this Year of the Air Force Family, one ultimate act of Airmen helping their own will get national attention Nov. 8 when ABC-TV's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" features an Air Force civilian and his new custom built house.

James Terpenning waves to volunteers and onlookers after seeing his new home unveiled as part of the television show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" Aug. 6, 2009. The episode featuring the Terpenning family will air Nov. 8 on ABC at 7 p.m. Central time. Mr. Terpenning is an Aeronautical Systems Center information technology specialist. (U.S. Air Force photo/Ron Fry)

"We are having lots of fun in the new house and life has been so much better," said James Terpenning, an Aeronautical Systems Center information technology specialist. "We had a great life before, but this new home makes that wonderful life so much easier."

The episode airs following the culmination of Air Force Family Week, a part of this year's celebration of Year of the Air Force Family.

'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition' Air Force style

Air Force volunteers pitch in for co-worker's 'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition'

by Ron Fry  Air Force Materiel Command Public Affairs

Air Force volunteers remove a wheelchair ramp from the James Terpenning home while "Extreme Makeover" camera crews videotaped the work Aug. 1 at Beavercreek, Ohio. (U.S. Air Force photo/Ron Fry)

8/4/2009 - BEAVERCREEK, Ohio (AFNS) -- A team of Air Force military members and civilians volunteered Aug. 1 to help a fellow Wright-Patterson Air Force Base employee who is getting a new home as part of ABC-TV's series, "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition."

A team of about 25 Air Force people helped with the makover of the home of James Terpenning, a computer specialist at the Aeronautical Systems Center. The team of volunteers were led by Gen. Donald Hoffman, the Air Force Materiel Command commander, and Lt. Gen. Jack Hudson, the ASC commander.

R. Lee Ermey Jumps At Ft. Campbell

Sgt. 1st Class Larry Jarrett, 101st Airborne Division Parachute Demonstration Team, prepares R. Lee Ermey for a tandem jump out of a CH-47F Chinook helicopter. Ermey, best known for his role as a drill instructor in "Full Metal Jacket" and host of "Mail Call" was at Fort Campbell to film an episode of his new show "Lock and Load."   By: Nondice Powell, Fort Campbell Courier.

Former 'Mail Call' host drops into Fort Campbell

Ordnance Soldiers Save "Skunk Werks"

Jesse James (center, w/coveralls) watches as service members work on a hybrid humvee at the "Skunk Werks" welding shop at Logistical Support Area Anaconda, Iraq, December 2005. The mechanics were challenged to create a unique humvee for the popular Discovery Channel show, Monster Garage.

Apr 25

By 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) Public Affairs

JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq - When Soldiers of the 602nd Maintenance Co. leave Iraq this summer they'll be taking a piece of history with them: the "Skunk Werks" welding shop from here.

Starting in 2003, the "Skunk Werks" was one of the first locations where Level II up-armor kits - more commonly known as "hillbilly armor" - were installed on military vehicles. It's because of this historical significance that Mr. Richard Killblane, the transportation corps historian, plans to move the "Skunk Werks" to the transportation museum at Fort Eustis, Va.

Tyndall Airmen slim down, prove fit to fight

by Senior Airman Anthony J. Hyatt
325 th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

4/22/2009 - TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The culmination of the Beat the Boss and the Biggest Loser competitions came April 17 at Tyndall AFB, Fla. The purpose of each event was to motivate Airmen through further incentives to strive for excellent scores on physical training testing, and to see which contestants could lose the most weight.

Fort Carson serves as backdrop for reality show

Apr 08

By Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Quill, 43rd Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office

FORT CARSON, Colo. - Fort Carson recently found out that invasions don't necessarily involve tanks, artillery and other forms of military might.

Boots to Suits LLC, a company contracted by the Army to produce a reality TV show, executed a mini invasion in which Fort Carson and its Soldiers played a starring role.

SSgt Jeremiah Workman on Lou Dobbs tonight!

You missed it?  Next airing of this should be at 3:50AM Eastern 28 MAR 2009.  It has not yet reached his webpage, but we will embed when that is available. CNN's Transcript of the Show (As of 9/13/09, I still haven't found the video, but I was impressed with Lou Dobbs in that he regularly ends his show with the story of one of Our Heroes.)

Jeremiah Workman: Shadow of the Sword
PRE-Order Now!!!! Ssgt Workman is featured in the Hall of Heroes and a book review on this from Our Jarhead Insider that read it as it was written: http://waronterrornews.typepad.com/home/2008/12/shadow-of-the-sword-by-jeremiah-workman-w-john-bruning.html The Most recent article is here: http://waronterrornews.typepad.com/home/2008/12/ssgt-jeremiah-workman-navy-cross-usmc-iraq-marion-oh.html and links to prior articles.

'Ace of Cakes' Treats U.S. Army, Hawaii to Special Military Cake

Jeffrey "Duff" Goldman and Geoffrey Manthorne, stars of the Food Network show "Ace of Cakes", move the UH-60 Black Hawk cake to the Wheeler Army Airfield location for the "Hero" shot, Jan 29. The “Ace of Cakes” crew videotaped their season finale on Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, Jan. 26-29.

Entertainers Join Elmo to Help Military Families Find ‘New Normal’

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2009 – Sesame Workshop will air a PBS special April 1 aimed at helping military families cope with changes.

Actor/singer Queen Latifah and singer John Mayer will join Elmo to present, “Coming Home: Military Families Cope with Change.” The special carries a message for children whose parents suffered a physical or psychological wound in combat.

Deployed Soldiers Get a ‘Troop Cave’ with Creature Comforts

Tony Siragusa, second from right, former National Football League player and co-host of DIY Network TV’s “Man Caves,” bonds with members of an Ohio National Guard unit during a taping of the show’s one-hour special, “Man Caves: USO Troop Edition.”
DIY courtesy photo  

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 23, 2009 – “Kuwait” and “all the comforts of home” are phrases rarely uttered in the same sentence, but a “Man Caves” makeover at Camp Virginia, Kuwait, will show that sometimes the improbable can happen.

Tonight - 8PM Eastern Time Watch Soldier Competes On Deal or No Deal

Soldier competes in popular game show

Dec 24, 2008
BY Jacqueline M. Hames

"Deal or No Deal" host Howie Mandel gestures at the camera while Staff Sgt. Matthew Zedwick looks to his on-stage guests. Zedwick said Mandel was a "pretty nice guy," and was really excited to have newlywed Zedwick and wife Kristin on the show. The two-hour Christmas special will air at 8 p.m. EST, Dec. 25. Photo by Trae Patton, NBC

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, December 24, 2008) -- A Soldier in the Army National Guard competes in a well-known game show on Christmas day for a prize of up to one million dollars.

Staff Sgt. Matt Zedwick, an Iraq veteran and the only living Silver Star recipient in the Oregon National Guard since World War II, will compete in a special holiday airing of "Deal or No Deal."

Zedwick appeared with his wife Kristin on the show to compete for a top prize of one million dollars. In addition to his wife, Zedwick's brother Dan and friend Ryan Tuttle were there to support him on the stage. Several friends, family members and fellow Soldiers were in the audience cheering him on.

Wynonna Judd joins Reserve Band for TV broadcast

Wynonna Judd joins Reserve Band for TV broadcast

Wynonna and Naomi Judd sing classic holiday music while the Band of the Air Force Reserve and Air Force Strings perform in the background during the 2008 Holiday Notes from Home concert recorded Dec. 9 in Nashville, Tenn. The concert is an annual holiday event recorded at the Grand Ole Opry House as a tribute to military men and women serving around the world. The show airs on Great American Country and on American Forces Network channels throughout December. (U.S. Air Force photo/Ken Hackman) Download HiRes

by Maj. Miki Kristina Gilloon
Air Force Reserve Command Public Affairs

12/10/2008 - ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. (AFNS)  -- Members of the Band of the Air Force Reserve and Air Force Strings teamed up with Wynonna and Naomi Judd and the Palmetto State Quartet for this year's Holiday Notes from Home concert recorded Dec. 9 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tenn.

Viewers around the world will have a chance to see this year's Holiday Notes from Home on Great American Country television beginning 10 p.m. Dec. 10 through Dec. 22. 

The American Forces Radio and Television Service is also scheduled to broadcast the show on American Forces Network channels for servicemembers and their families stationed overseas. On AFN Spectrum, personnel overseas can see the show at 7 p.m. (viewer time) Dec. 17, and on AFN Prime at 10 a.m. (viewer time) Dec. 25 .

This year's 60-minute program is hosted by Lorraine Crook and Charlie Chase of Crook and Chase radio and TV show. Wynonna and Naomi Judd, and the Palmetto State Quartet are accompanied by a full orchestra comprised of 60 musicians from the Band of the Air Force Reserve from Robins Air Force Base, Ga., and the Air Force Strings ensemble from Washington, D.C. Also featured is Staff Sgt. Angie Long, a Missouri Air National Guard Band vocalist .

The concert is an annual holiday event that serves as a tribute to military men and women serving around the world.

"The holiday season is a time for families and we're thrilled to be able to share the gift of music to our service members and supporters," said Maj. Donald Schofield, Band of the Air Force Reserve commander.

During the show Lt. Gen. Charles E. Stenner Jr., commander of the Air Force Reserve Command, thanked Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, their families and employers who support reservists for their daily sacrifices.

"Many of America's sons and daughters have selflessly answered the call to service. As the commander of more than 67,000 Citizen Airmen, I couldn't be more proud," he said. "Beyond our families, each of your communities also makes sacrifices. This program, Holiday Notes from Home, is just a small way to say 'thank you' to each of you." 

GAC will air the concert (all Eastern Standard Times) at 10 p.m. Dec. 10, at 2 and 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 10, at 3 p.m. Dec. 13, at 10 p.m. Dec. 15, at 2 a.m. and 11 p.m. Dec. 16, at 6 p.m. Dec. 21, and at 4 p.m. Dec. 22.

MTV visits Fairchild

MTV visits Fairchild

Airman 1st Class Tiffany Zaloudek receives instruction from Rich Browd, MTV director of the "How To Show," during the filming of an episode Nov. 17 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The episode, starring Airman Zaloudek, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 22nd Training Squadron, will demonstrate how to survive when you find yourself stranded and in need of being rescued. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford) Download HiRes

by Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

11/26/2008 - FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. (AFNS) -- Five crew members from MTV came to Fairchild Air Force Base Nov. 17 for a firsthand glimpse of what the Air Force has to offer. 

MTV's "How to Show" has celebrities demonstrating how to do a variety of things through a step-by-step format, and the Air Force joined MTV to show how Airmen survive, evade, resist and escape behind enemy lines.

During the planning process, many different scenarios for the "How To Show" were discussed among officials from MTV, the Air Force Recruiting Service and GSD&M Idea City (a marketing company employed by the Air Force), as to what the Air Force could offer the show. 

"Ultimately, we all agreed that the Fairchild base had the most educated group of people who would be able to provide unparalleled guidance throughout the different scenarios and shoots," said Theresa Piszczor, an MTV Networks account executive.

Senior Airman David Janossy, a 22nd Training Squadron survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist organized personnel, wrote scripts and worked the logistics.

"Showcasing our very unique skill sets of the 336th Training Squadron in combination with a new program produced by a cutting edge director like Rich Browd from MTV was an unbeatable opportunity," Airman Janossy said. "SERE gets to put its best foot forward to the public with help from world-class television professionals, and MTV gets an exciting program which educates their audience on some very useful outdoor emergency survival skills."

The MTV crew were escorted by SERE specialists to two locations to be used for filming over two days. Airman 1st Class Tiffany Zaloudek, a 22nd Training Squadron SERE specialist, explained and demonstrated how to survive when you find yourself stranded and in need of being rescued for the MTV cameras. She went through the steps starting with simply being prepared and staying calm. She showed how to build a fire and attract the attention of the rescuer were also covered in her step by step instructions on how to survive a land based emergency. 

"I understand they wanted to show a more diverse approach and having a female show survival techniques will hopefully give confidence to anyone, male or female, to be able to perform what we have shown," Airman Zaloudek said. "I worked with some of the nicest professionals from MTV and Air Force Recruiting. They made it fun and extremely easy for me. I got to see behind the scenes of how production is run and I give them mad props for all that they do, especially listening to me repeat the same line six times in a row. I hope they were able to take away new knowledge as I did from them."

On the final day of filming, one of MTV's own camera operators, Shawn Mattaro, attended the open water survival course required for all aircrews. Mr. Mattaro was required to take the course for the purpose of filming from inside the underwater egress training dunker.

Senior Airman Ethan Jago, a 66th Training Squadron SERE specialist, was chosen to narrate the water survival episode. This episode demonstrates the steps involved to egress from a submerged vehicle safely.

"I helped write the script for the water survival," Airman Jago said. "It was definitely an experience seeing how long it takes to film something as simple as a three minute show."

After two full days of filming, MTV left with a new and more personal perspective of the Air Force. 

"This was an incredible opportunity that exposed me to just a glimpse of the many skills learned in the Air Force," said Sheree Shu, an MTV producer. "As we will illustrate in the how-to spots, many of these skills are applicable to everyday life situations. It was an absolute pleasure working with all the individuals from the Air Force in making this happen and I look forward to working with them again."

It takes approximately four weeks from the time of filming to the time the two custom episodes featuring Fairchild AFB Airmen will launch on MTV.com and MTV mobile. Fairchild AFB episodes are scheduled to launch the week of Dec. 15. 

"After many years at MTV, I've never had the pleasure of directing such a cooperative and enthusiastic group of individuals," said Rich Browd, the MTV "How To Show" director. "This experience is one that we will not soon forget."

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

Airman 1st Class Tiffany Zaloudek receives instruction from Rich Browd, MTV director of the "How To Show," during the filming of an episode Nov. 17 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The episode, starring Airman Zaloudek, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 22nd Training Squadron, will demonstrate how to survive when you find yourself stranded and in need of being rescued. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Jack Baribault, an MTV cameraman, leans over the water to talk to Shawn Mattaro (blue helmet), another MTV cameraman, as Mr. Mattaro awaits further instructions from a survival instructor (red helmet) during an open water survival lesson Nov. 18 at the aquatic center at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. Mr. Mattaro was required to take the open water survival instruction for the purpose of filming from inside the underwater egress training dunker as part of one of the episodes for the "How To Show" on MTV.com and MTV mobile. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

Airman 1st Class Tiffany Zaloudek receives instruction from Rich Browd, MTV director of the "How To Show," during the filming of an episode Nov. 17 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The episode, starring Airman Zaloudek, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 22nd Training Squadron, will demonstrate how to survive when you find yourself stranded and in need of being rescued. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Jack Baribault, an MTV cameraman, leans over the water to talk to Shawn Mattaro (blue helmet), another MTV cameraman, as Mr. Mattaro awaits further instructions from a survival instructor (red helmet) during an open water survival lesson Nov. 18 at the aquatic center at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. Mr. Mattaro was required to take the open water survival instruction for the purpose of filming from inside the underwater egress training dunker as part of one of the episodes for the "How To Show" on MTV.com and MTV mobile. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Senior Airman Ethan Jago listens to instructions from the MTV crew before filming begins Nov. 18 at the aquatic center at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The MTV crew was at Fairchild to film several episodes for the "How To Show" seen on MTV.com and MTV mobile. Airman Jago, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 66th Training Squadron, was chosen to narrate for the episode demonstrating the steps involved in escaping from a submerged vehicle. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

Airman 1st Class Tiffany Zaloudek receives instruction from Rich Browd, MTV director of the "How To Show," during the filming of an episode Nov. 17 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The episode, starring Airman Zaloudek, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 22nd Training Squadron, will demonstrate how to survive when you find yourself stranded and in need of being rescued. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Jack Baribault, an MTV cameraman, leans over the water to talk to Shawn Mattaro (blue helmet), another MTV cameraman, as Mr. Mattaro awaits further instructions from a survival instructor (red helmet) during an open water survival lesson Nov. 18 at the aquatic center at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. Mr. Mattaro was required to take the open water survival instruction for the purpose of filming from inside the underwater egress training dunker as part of one of the episodes for the "How To Show" on MTV.com and MTV mobile. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Senior Airman Ethan Jago listens to instructions from the MTV crew before filming begins Nov. 18 at the aquatic center at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The MTV crew was at Fairchild to film several episodes for the "How To Show" seen on MTV.com and MTV mobile. Airman Jago, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 66th Training Squadron, was chosen to narrate for the episode demonstrating the steps involved in escaping from a submerged vehicle. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

An MTV film crew arrives at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., Nov. 17 to film an episode of the "How To Show" seen on MTV.com and MTV mobile. Fairchild was selected for two custom episodes involving land and water survival to be launched the week of Dec. 15. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image

How To Contact Congressmen, Representatives, Newspaper Editors, Talk Show Hosts and more!

A complete listing of E-Mail Addresses and Fax Numbers for U.S. Congress (House and Senate). along with all Governors.

http://www.conservativeusa.org/mega-cong.htm

A complete listing of U.S. Senators

You may choose to have the list of Senators sorted by Name, State or Party.  That makes it very easy to find someone if you don't know their name but do know what state they are from.  There is a great deal more information at this site:  Boigraphical Information, Telephone Numbers, Mailing Address in D.C. and more.

http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm

A complete listing by states of all U.S. House of Representatives.

There also is a list of resources which include, but is not limited to:  House schedule, House Directory, Clerk of the House, House Archives, Media Resources, Employment Opportunities and much more.

http://www.house.gov/house/MemberWWW_by_State.shtml#nd

Congressional Directory

The directory is set up so you may access your representatives by the zip code of where you live.  Or you can find someone using their last name, or if you can't remember that, you may put in the Party, the Chamber, the State and it will give you those names.

http://www.congress.org/congressorg/directory/congdir.tt

Newspapers Around The World

Are you looking for a newspaper in the United States, Canada or an international paper?  Perhaps you want a University publication.  Try this site.  They have a way to list the international papers alphabetical, which also shows the countries.

http://www.newspaperlinks.com/voyager.cfm

Contacting Talk Show Hosts, Newspapers, TV Networks, Entertainment Companies and more!

There is a comprehensive listing here of many radio talk shows, newspapers (including online ones), the various TV networks, elected officials and much, much more!

http://www.conservativeusa.org/megalink.htm#editors

Come On Down!................Servicemembers saluted on 'The Price is Right'

Servicemembers saluted on 'The Price is Right'

10/31/2008 - DALLAS (AFNS) -- "Master Sgt. Robin Brooks, come on down! You're the next contestant on 'The Price is Right!'" 

"Having my named called was music to my ears," said Sergeant Brooks, the first sergeant for the Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, from Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.

Although she had an airshow to prepare for the next day, she said she was happy she'd decided to be a part of the 350 member audience representing the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, retirees, disabled veterans and family members during a special taping of the daytime game show Sept. 10.

"This is an awesome opportunity to represent the Air Force and the Thunderbirds. I wouldn't have missed this opportunity for the world," she said of the "Salute to the Military" episode that is scheduled to air on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

Game Show Host Drew Carey was enthusiastic about hosting Sergeant Brooks and the rest of the distinguished audience members for the special made in conjunction with the Department of Defense Entertainment Media and the Army and Air Force Exchange Service.

"I think it's important for everyone to show our support to the servicemembers," said Mr. Carey, a former Marine reservist. "We sponsored shows like this before 9/11. And we've even sponsored shows specifically for each the four services in the past. I only wish I could do more."

When asked how this idea came about, Mr. Carey passed the credit onto his production team. 

"The idea came from Drew. He was very involved in how to lay out this show, down to the prizes being awarded and games selected," said Mike Richards, the co-executive producer for the show. 

"It was really important for us to make the special 'extra special,'" said Syd Vinnedge, the show's executive producer. "We wanted gifts that were specific to military servicemembers and we didn't want anyone to leave empty handed. Thus, we are grateful for the support AAFES has given this show. Without them, we couldn't have made it happen. This has definitely been a 'win-win' for all."

AAFES provided six $1,000 gift certificates for online shopping at aafes.com and six 1,000-minute phone cards for the contestants who made it on stage. Additionally, 10 percent discount coupons were given to everyone in the audience.

"When Drew explained the concept of the military salute show and wanting to provide gifts specifically for the military, I immediately thought of AAFES," said Barbra Brennan, the senior merchandizing representative from the CBS Promotional Placement and Awards Department. "I heard about the phone cards from a newspaper commentary addressing how any American could help the troops overseas during the holiday season a few years ago. I even checked the program out and was able to go to the aafes.com homepage to purchase phone cards for my brother, Marine Maj. Bradley Brennan, while he was deployed to Iraq. It was a little gesture, but it meant a lot to be able to hear from him on a continuous basis."

The phone cards and gift cards can be purchased for a specific person or any servicemember, and it is much more cost effective than sending packages through the mail.

Purchasing phone cards or gift cards for military members separated from their families during the holiday season is a great opportunity for any American to show their support for the troops overseas. Whether you know someone personally or not, a little bit of home makes a world of difference, Ms. Brennan said.

"I was surprised that AAFES went out of their way not only to provide prizes for the six contestants who actually made it on stage, but also for the entire audience. The certificates will be really helpful for the holidays," Sergeant Brooks said.

While AAFES handled the prizes, Vicente Ogilvie, the deputy special assistant for entertainment media at the Pentagon, ensured protocol was followed and every service was well represented.

"This was a joint effort between the Los Angeles Office and DOD level," he said. "This event required DOD approval due to the magnitude of support required. Drew has always showcased the military in a positive light in the past, and we were more than happy to assist him with this project because it also helps highlight the DOD's America Supports You program."

Tune into "The Price is Right" on Veterans Day to see all of the contestants and to learn who wins their game prizes and the showcase showdown.

The price is always right when supporting the troops through AAFES as shipping charges are reduced, and affordable calling is just a click away. Any American can take part in the "Help Our Troops Call Home" and "Gifts from the Homefront" programs by logging on to www.aafes.com.