The Evolving (yet largely ignored) National Security Crisis

 

      As we age, we all notice that time is gaining speed.  However, it also opens windows and realization to many other larger problems.  In the past 25-30 years there have been so many violent acts tied inevitably to mental health issues.  We easily accept this at truth yet wonder how things have gotten so out of control.  The problem has indeed grown and adapted over the years.  I approached this as an investigation of the mathematics angle......populations vs. occurrence.  

      During the 1970s, mental health treatment in the United States underwent significant changes due to the ongoing process of deinstitutionalization and a shift towards community-based care.  The 1970s saw a continuation of the trend of reducing the number of state hospitals and their inpatient populations, a trend that began in 1956.  The resident population in state psychiatric hospitals declined dramatically from about 370,000 in 1970 to 40,000 by 2014.

      The Community Mental Health Centers Act of 1963, signed by President Kennedy, played a pivotal role. This act aimed to shift mental health services from large institutions to community-based settings.   

      IN 1970 THE US POPULATION WAS 203.3 MILLION WITH 370,000 IN NEED OF HOSPITALIZATION……. A 1 IN 548 RATIO.  This, of course, involved voluntary services.  To this day there has always been an unavoidable stigma attached to mental health issues. In the 70s this was a very important factor in promoting voluntary care.   

      In 2025 mental health has become a nationwide crisis.  US POPULATION IS 347 MILLION WITH 52.9 MILLION IDENTIFIED WITH MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES, A 1 IN 6 RATIO. THIS EQUATES TO 17% OF THE POPULATION

      It stands to reason that if the 'core problem' maintains the number of occurrences will increase with increasing population.  This would be the mathematical approach to logic.  However, you must also address the causes and relations to violence, something not considered in 1970.    

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?  

      Looking at this from a clinical approach, exposure to gun violence, whether through direct experience or witnessing it, can lead to serious mental health consequences like depression, anxiety, and PTSD.  Conversely, while mental health conditions are not direct causes of violence, they can be risk factors, particularly when combined with other factors like substance abuse or access to firearms.

      It's crucial to understand that mental illness is not a direct cause of violence.  People with mental health conditions are more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators.  While mental illness itself doesn't cause violence, certain mental health conditions (like severe depression, psychosis, or personality disorders) can be risk factors, especially when combined with other factors like substance abuse, history of violence, or easy access to firearms.   There is certainly enough of that to go around these days.  A public health approach to gun violence prevention focuses on addressing the root causes of violence, including mental health issues, and implementing strategies to reduce exposure to violence and promote mental well-being.  The recent gunman who fired 100 rounds at the CDC in Atlanta was identified as a long time mental health patient.  The examples are a growing population.  

     Policies aimed at reducing gun violence, such as stricter gun control measures and extreme risk protection orders, can also play a role in preventing both violence and suicide.  In 2025, according to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been 8,653 deaths due to gun violence, categorized as homicide, murder, or unintentional incidents. Additionally, there have been 15,827 injuries resulting from gun violence. This includes 131 deaths and 288 injuries to children (0-11 years old), and 609 deaths and 1,688 injuries to teens (12-17 years old).

      Finally, we get to my feelings on this.  People identify with their particular 'Locus of Control'.  Most gun violence episodes are the result of an external Locus of Control, meaning that these people tend to praise or blame external factors such as their family, economic status, and any number of a myriad of other external factors. 

      As for adolescents the evolution of change has had a significant effect due to increased stresses from social pressure.  Hey, I never really enjoyed high school and that was in the late 60s.  There have been 'latch key' children for nearly 60 years now and in far too many homes the 'nuclear family' has disappeared.  The 'ages old' societal impact of peer pressure and 'out of control' social media influencers do not help.   

      When JFK signed his Community Based Mental Care Act it put responsibility back on the local level, but the responsibility to seek this help rests solely on the individual.  A friend of mine has a sister with serious mental issues, but can only be held 24 hours unless they diagnose deeper issues, and not without the patient's permission.  

      Gun Control is ineffective with no apparent reasonable solution in sight.  A higher level of education towards guns is sorely needed.  This includes sole responsibility, something sorely lacking in many communities around the country.  Law enforcement needs to be fully supported on the local and state levels.  The local levels are where the serious problems occur.  Police are often far too 'hamstrung' by a liberal local administration and a highly ineffective court system.  

      This is where the illegal immigrant numbers come into play.   There is no evidence to support the claim that undocumented immigrants are responsible for 4,000 deaths in the US annually.  There are no mental health statistics for this population.  It is worth noting that immigrants are statistically less likely to be arrested for violent crimes (especially in sanctuary cities), including homicide, compared to US-born populations.   The opposition to law enforcement of such crimes are strictly based on twisted political motives.  It makes no sense and many of the citizens in those cities are becoming fed up.  In fact, applicants for the growing vacancy of ICE positions is booming.  

 

      The issue of mental health needs to more aggressively pursued.  We have been successful at securing the border, thus nearly eliminating the influx, but we have failed at fixing health care.  The 'left' will surely blame POTUS, but the problem has existed for 62 years.  We are trying to support law enforcement, but not in all crucial states and this might just be another brick in National Jenga.  

    I note that this was a difficult chapter to write as many search results are affected by AI, often skewing the results.  I had to dig much deeper to find the #s I was looking for.  This quote reeks of irony.   MLK, much like JFK, had a much clearer and decent view of our nation's troubles.  

"Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars"

Martin Luther King

Dave's Killer Bread

 

       This is a great story.  We first tried it at Mom's house in Tumwater, WA in 2014.  It is a whole grain bread; Mom ate it for the health value.  We found the taste, texture, and freshness to be noteworthy. 

      Their story began in 2005, at the Portland Farmers Market, when Dave Dahl and his nephew brought some loaves of bread to sell. They knew they had something killer and unique, but little did they know how much these products would shake up the bread aisle.

      For Dave, this was more than just taking a few loaves of bread to a local market. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life.  Though he grew up in a family of bakers, his life took a different path. A path that led to prison for a total of 15 years.  But during his last sentence, he had a pivotal moment of clarity where he realized he wanted to do more with his life.  He was welcomed back to the small family bakery by his older brother, Glenn. Determined to prove his worth and make a positive impact, Dave worked tirelessly to bake breads that tasted unlike anything else on the market. Packed with seeds and grains, made with only the very best organic and non-GMO ingredients. 

      They are a proud Second Chance Employer, hiring the best person for the job, regardless of criminal history.  They have witnessed first-hand that someone’s past does not define their future, and that sometimes giving someone a chance is all they need to become a Good Seed.  Second Chance Employment — Dave's Killer Bread

      As of 2016 DKB is sold nearly everywhere in North America.  

      Locally, you find their products in Kalkaska, Mancelona, Bellaire, Williamsburg, Grayling, and of course Traverse City.  Their vast array of products include:   Products — Dave's Killer Bread  including 6 different thick and thin sliced breads, 7 different breakfast bagels and muffins, 6 different buns and rolls, 6 different energy bars, and 6 different snacks.  

      You can research the nutritional information for each product at Nutrition — Dave's Killer Bread

      Barb loves the WW Thin Sliced Good Seed while I prefer the Thick Sliced 21 Whole Grain.  No white bread for us.  We both like the Cinnamon Raisin Bagels, the 21 Whole Grains and Seeds Burger Buns are very tasty.  

     Now the bottom line is for such fine nutrition products the price is not cheap.  A typical loaf of bread costs around $6.19, the breakfast bagels/muffins run $5.99, a pouch of snack bites cost $7.99 while a box of snack bars run around $6.  You must weigh your desire to purchase a much healthier alternative versus the cost.  This varies family to family.  I personally enjoy the flavor regardless of cost, but Barb will buy generic when she shops alone.  It's always 'push-pull'.  

      This is as much of an American Success Story and any other.  Perhaps even more outstanding given Dave's 4 chances at rehabilitation.  RESPECT.  

"I was just a guy selling bread.  A guy just out of prison (in 2004).  People ask me how long it took me to create the bread, and I say 43 years ... I can't believe how fast the bread came, but it was a lifetime journey. I was a four-time loser before I realized I was in the wrong game" 

Dave Dahl

47th Annual Hessel Antique Wooden Boat Sheaux

 

      Always the second Saturday of August, the Les Cheneaux Islands Antique Wooden Boat Show is known as one of the largest shows of its kind and has grown to encompass family friendly activities throughout the week.  The “Boat Show” has been a major attraction since it began in 1978.  This event is hosted by the Les Cheneaux Historical Association - proceeds help to fund the operation of our historical and maritime museums.  There is also a car show and exhibits on display.  Accommodations in the area are slim so plan in advance.  

      Barb and I had planned to come up for the week, staying nearby at the Hessel Casino Campground, but due to unfortunate truck issues chose to make this a day long trip.  It is a little over a 2-hour trip for us, but we planned to make a day of it.  Admission was $10 each.  

      We loved the experience; you have to appreciate the art and craftsmanship of it all.  It was quite hot with highs in the low 90s and humidity from hell.  Everyone was hot, but the crowds were very pleasant.  Over 9,000 were in attendance. 

“Freedom is what we do with what is done to us.”

Jean-Paul Sartre

Deutschländer Tragen Nudelsalat

 

      Literally translated this is German Pasta Salad with Bear Meat.  I used smoked Michigan Black Bear sausage I made this past winter for this meal.  We are nearing the end of Barb's bear meat from last season.

7 ounces spiral pasta (I used Fusilli)

Salt n pepper

1 pound pork sausage or bear meat sausage

7 ounces canned sweet corn 

3-1/2 ounces frozen peas 

7 ounces Edam or Gouda cheese 

2 Tbsp mayonnaise

1 Tbsp mustard

1 diced sweet pickle

3-1/2 ounces half n half

2 Tbsp tomato sauce

1 tsp lemon juice

1 tsp paprika

2 dashes Worcestershire sauce

2 Tbsp parsley

3-1/2 ounces cherry tomatoes

Chives for garnish 

      Cook the pasta al dente in salted water, drain and rinse with cold water.

      Cut sausages on the bias diagonally.  Drain the sweetcorn, blanche the peas, drain and allow to cool.  Cut the cheese into cubes.

      Mix the mayonnaise, half n half, tomato sauce and lemon juice and then season with salt, pepper, paprika and Worcestershire sauce to create a savory mix with the parsley and allow to marinade for about half an hour.  Wash and quarter the tomatoes and arrange them on the plate with the pasta salad.  Delicious.  

 

“German food is like a warm hug on a cold winter’s night...hearty, simple, and full of love.”  

Traditional German Proverb

Makah Ozette, the perfect fingerling potato

 

      Makah Ozette potatoes are a unique fingerling variety, prized for their creamy, nutty, and earthy flavor. They are also known for their elongated, lumpy shape, thin skin, and firm, creamy white flesh.  Originally from South America, they were brought to the Pacific Northwest and cultivated by the Makah people of Washington's Olympic Peninsula for around 200 years.  They were added to the Slow Food's Ark of Taste to help preserve this unique variety.  They are nutty, earthy, and slightly sweet, with a creamy texture.  Although primarily blonde in color, you will also find them in brown or sometimes red hues, most notably at Trader Joe's.  They are a bit of a novelty, but we love the flavor.  

      Steaming whole and then lightly crushing with a fork is a popular preparation.  You can also roast which brings out their earthy and nutty flavors.  Pan-frying can also enhance their flavor.  They can be mashed for a creamy texture. They can also be halved and used in warm potato salads. They can be grated and used in potato pancakes. 

      They pair well with browned butter, lemon, scallions, cheese, paprika, and various meats and fish.  Due to their long, cylindrical shape they can be sliced into chunks or even slivers if you wish.  

      Living in Michigan and Texas I don't often find them.  When visiting Washington or Oregon they are easily found in Whole Food, Organic Food Stores, and Trader Joe's.  Some of our favorite recipes include:  

Roasted Taters

1 lb Makah Ozette Potatoes washed and halved lengthwise

2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional: ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese

Optional Spices (about a teaspoon each): garlic powder, smoke paprika, onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

       

       Preheat your oven to 425 Fahrenheit.

       Fill a medium bowl with cold water.  After you have washed your potatoes, begin cuttin them in half lengthwise and place them in the cold water.  This will help them get nice and

 crispy when you bake them.

       Drain your potatoes and allow them to air dry for 10 minutes.  Add back to the bowl and

 drizzle in your oil, cheese (optional), and seasoning blend.  Shake until evenly coated

 Spread out onto a lined baking sheet or even a cast iron skillet.  Place into the oven for

 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the potato is fork tender.  Flip

 halfway through and make sure you are keeping an eye on them as some spices tend to

 burn if they are not turned frequently.  Allow to cool before enjoying as a side dish. 

 Sautéed Makah Ozette Potatoes

2 pounds Makah Ozette potatoes, halved lengthwise

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for coating

1 cup chicken broth

Flakey sea salt, to taste

      This is our favorite recipe.  Rinse the potatoes in water.  You can leave them whole if you wish.  Pour chicken broth into skillet and turn heat to medium.  Rub potatoes liberally with oil and let rest for 10 minutes.  

      Add potatoes to simmering broth, add salt.  Simmer till fairly tender.  Keep an eye on this as it can get out of hand.  When ready to serve, place on plate and fork smash with some butter.  

Makah Ozette Potato Salad with Mustard and Fresh Herbs

      This recipe uses 2 pounds of Ozette potatoes, and a dressing made with Dijon and whole grain mustards, minced shallot and garlic, apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, chopped chives and parsley, salt, pepper, and hazelnut oil.

      Slice the potatoes across the grain into chunks.  Boil the potatoes till tender, drain and cool.  

      Combine the mustards, vinegar, mayonnaise, herbs, salt, pepper, and hazelnut or walnut or almond oil.  Slice the cooled potatoes and toss with the dressing. Adjust seasoning and add more hazelnut oil if needed.  Serve.

There are handful of online sites you can order from, but they are limited.  

Potatoes - Irish Eyes

Burpee.com 

www.traderjoes.com/

"In Makah tribal culture, the social aspects of food are as important as the food itself"

Polly McCarty