An Amazing Book - Out of the Mountains

I'm just finishing up one of the best books I've read, Out of the Mountains by David Kilcullen.  If you have any interest in terrorism, organized crime or what keeps communities together, I highly recommend it.  It's the sort of book that made me thoughtful, offered a new perspective on many subjects and has inspired me to do some additional research.  It comes with my highest recommendation. 

All Hail the Police State, Part 18

I've written before about various government agencies that have firearms and SWAT teams, like the Department of Education.  Today I noticed that the newest SWAT team that's come to my attention is operated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife department.  You know, game wardens and park rangers.  Because the new futuristic super-poacher needs a militarized game warden to stop him.  Part of the  arsenal?  Gunboats mounted with .30 caliber machine guns including a 65 foot gulf patrol boat.  65' is almost superyacht status, a big freaking boat that cost millions of dollars.  To make sure people have their proper fishing permits, I guess.

That is crazy.

Almost as crazy as the Missouri Water Patrol, that has a SWAT team.  That trains on land.  Because, you know, they need a SWAT team to combat frat boys getting drunk and girls without their tops on in party cove at Lake of the Ozarks.

Stay safe out there!