Oregon Governor on the Ground in Afghanistan (VIDEO)

DISPATCHES FROM AFGHANISTAN
"They understand their future lies with America, in giving them an opportunity to give them a stable society."

(KABUL, Afghanistan) - Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski is no stranger to the military, and troops in Afghanistan were not surprised to see him on base at Camp Phoenix where the Oregon National Guard is based with the 41st Combat Brigade. As Tim King shows us in this next report, Oregon's top dog got a good feel for the local culture and the progress of the military mission known as Enduring Freedom.

Oregon's Commander in Chief visited Camp Phoenix in Afghanistan this week to inspect the operation and congratulate Oregon troops who are deployed here with the 41st Combat Brigade. He says the road ahead is not a short one, but expressed confidence in the abilities of Oregon's soldiers.

Governor Ted Kulongoski said, "This is achievable, it's just going to take more time. But I have to tell you something; The Oregon National Guard, they've got to be some of the best soldiers in the world."

The Governor visited Camp Phoenix on a day when locals are allowed to sell their goods. He also visited a number of forward outposts, allowing good insight into the operations here, and the local culture which he describes as supportive, and that's great in a nation where fighters sometimes value their weapons more highly than their women.

"They see their future in our ability to provide them with the resources and the opportunity to build this infrastructure of a government,” the Governor explained, “the economy, the roads, sewer, water, those are the things they need and I think that is why they are so supportive of the Americans being here."

As a long time officer of Oregon's courts, Kulongoski cautions that Afghanistan will never have a democracy as we know it, but he believes that success in self-governance is possible in this Islamic Nation's future.

"They understand their future lies with America, in giving them an opportunity to give them a stable society." Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski

The Governor says supporting troops is a multi faceted thought in this complex world.

"I want Oregonians to understand that this conflict here in Afghanistan is about more than the soldiers fighting it or their families or their wives or children or their moms and dads, it's about all of us and all of us have to have a sense that this is a shared sacrifice, that this is something that will benefit us all, so I actually think that if I have one thing to say; this Christmastime, when you're around your family and you're around the fire, think about these kids over here making America a better place and a safer place for all of us."

Governor Kulongoski had dinner with the president of Afghanistan while visiting, and he says that left him with a feeling that the work here is indeed progressing.

Watch the Video News Report below, direct from Kabul, Afghanistan by Tim King: Video

Tim King is a former U.S. Marine with twenty years of experience on the west coast as a television news producer, photojournalist, reporter and assignment editor. In addition to his role as a war correspondent, this Los Angeles native serves as Salem-News.com's Executive News Editor. Tim spent the winter of 2006/07 covering the war in Afghanistan, and he was in Iraq over the summer of 2008, reporting from the war while embedded with both the U.S. Army and the Marines.

Tim holds awards for reporting, photography, writing and editing, including the Silver Spoke Award by the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (2011), Excellence in Journalism Award by the Oregon Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs (2010), Oregon AP Award for Spot News Photographer of the Year (2004), First-place Electronic Media Award in Spot News, Las Vegas, (1998), Oregon AP Cooperation Award (1991); and several others including the 2005 Red Cross Good Neighborhood Award for reporting. Tim has several years of experience in network affiliate news TV stations, having worked as a reporter and photographer at NBC, ABC and FOX stations in Arizona, Nevada and Oregon. Tim was a member of the National Press Photographer's Association for several years and is a current member of the Orange County Press Club.

Serving the community in very real terms, Salem-News.com is the nation's only truly independent high traffic news Website. As News Editor, Tim among other things, is responsible for publishing the original content of 82 Salem-News.com writers. He reminds viewers that emails are easily missed and urges those trying to reach him, to please send a second email if the first goes unanswered. You can write to Tim at this address: newsroom@salem-news.com

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Comments Leave a comment on this story.

All comments and messages are approved by people and self promotional links or unacceptable comments are denied.

Pharmacist March 30, 2007 4:10 pm (Pacific time)

Doctors and counselors so often find it easier to medicate and therefore eradicate their problems whereas children are concerned. WBR LeoP

Osotan; February 24, 2007 4:17 am (Pacific time)

Now I know where Leonardo gets his ideas! This stuff makes everything I've sent in hardly out of line at all! Amazing!., and if they're not 85% medicated, they're missing a great opportunity!

The Analysis February 9, 2007 10:01 pm (Pacific time)

Dear Mr.Tim King: I have alot of respect for you. I think you do a great job. I know that you are far brighter than most people might imagine...even Bonnie. My point was I thought that the Governor inadvertently gave away a little secret that maybe you and I know but maybe he was not aware of. There will never be a democracy in Afghanistan in our lifetime. Maybe he does know but it was good to hear him say it. That is all. Your coverage in Afghanistan has been exceptional. I wish for you something that I have not yet found no matter where I go....true inner peace. We take ourselves with us where ever we go. I will keep trying till the end. Never say "never" and never say "always." Sorry for such a late response....stuff happens.

Tim King December 27, 2006 8:58 pm (Pacific time)

To the person writing as "The Analysis" - I hope you don't really believe that I didn't select that sound bite from the Governor intentionally, geez... you assume I write my stories and include things like that without realizing the point that is being made? If you were here with me you too would clearly understand that Afghanistan is not headed for a Jeffersonian type of democracy. Sorry you apparently take me for less than I am, I hope that clarifies that I don't spend hours recording, researhing, writing and producing a report without "realizing" what I am getting at. I personally don't understand your POV though, I guess I am missing something, thanks just the same for your thoughts.

SGT John Parsons December 18, 2006 1:04 pm (Pacific time)

I just want to say thanks to Tim for getting our story out I have told him this in person but wanted to get it in print. He is a great guy and the people back home need to demand his stories get some TV air time.

James J. Hogan December 13, 2006 6:12 pm (Pacific time)

Henry: You have my permission to post any commentes from those e-mails that you like. After all they are my my property and there's no copyright on them. And quite frankly I personally am not ashamed of myself for anything.

jeffbenice December 13, 2006 8:53 am (Pacific time)

Al, you and jim should just kiss and make up.And leave the salem-news fans alone.........

James J. Hogan December 11, 2006 8:29 pm (Pacific time)

For everyone who would like to know what Al is talking about you can go to my website @ www.theonlinecarpenter.com/page1.html where I put up a photo documentory of what happened to me on a jobsite. Al helped me out and visited me in the Hospital and drove me around the first couple of weeks after I got out of the Hospital. He's quite a guy. I can vouch for him on that. He's a bit fruity...but he's ok.

Dear J.J.H. December 11, 2006 7:21 pm (Pacific time)

Stop fantasizing about court and a fat settlement. If you did not annoy people in a work environment, you would not have been assaulted. People will only put up with you for a while before they get real angry... Gio, did what he did because you were always bothering him, especially with that damn camera. Now,your Judge Judy, Kissa Meass, Maryanne, Donna, Creed, Johnny Gumba, Joey Illuminati, Jason Vale, Beamer, Buckwheat, Patty M. and more. I really feel sorry for Gio. Now that I have gotten to really know you, I can see where you could push a man over the limit.

Kissa Meass December 11, 2006 4:36 pm (Pacific time)

Great comments.

Judge Judy December 11, 2006 4:25 pm (Pacific time)

Lela, Henry, C'itall, Tim, jane, Anonymous, johnny boy, LOL, are all against you Dove. You don't stand a chance in court here.

Maryanne Delassandro December 11, 2006 4:09 pm (Pacific time)

Yes Paul, I agree. Parents should keep their kids off the internet unless it's for school or the library. Very good point! Good to see their are other mob families comunicating here too.

Paul Castelano December 11, 2006 2:09 pm (Pacific time)

The Children's Internet Protection Act CIPA, regulates libraries and public shools. Now you have really flipped your wig Jim, trying to impersonate Homeland Security. Your internet game days are coming to an end. Do you really need a major criminal charge at this time? Aren't you in enough hot water? And I do not mean the hot tub. I also do no appreciate what you did to my good name. I suggest you clear it up.

CIPA December 10, 2006 11:39 pm (Pacific time)

Henry Ruark Sir: There no need for friend Dov to face necessity to ID-self openly, we have tracer on cell transponder via satellite as per orders of HLS. NS concerns have been arranged following subjects remarks consequential to the nature of intell being released as speculated threats to HLS. We will take it from here, Sir. Respectfully, CIPA

For The Likes Of You December 10, 2006 10:06 pm (Pacific time)

Just please let these to messages go through Henry Ruark as I have this confession to make and I feel I should just let the readers know what I am going through so they will forgive me for my rants. Please, as it took a real lot to get this out of my system...you know, about the aliens and the money they stole for me and all. I've got to let peole understand I sometimes feel so superior to them sometimes. Then maybe they will understand me better.

For The Likes Of You December 10, 2006 9:59 pm (Pacific time)

Dear Readers, I have had many abductions and visitation experiences and I have implants that were left in my body by alien forces. An Oral Surgeon has even noted scars on the roof of my mouth that are consistent with surgery, yet I have had no previous surgical history. I would like to have doctors, aside from my head shrinks, to look into my phsycological problems as well as the physical symptoms I am experiencing. I am unsure how to broach the subject though. I am an "on top of the hill" Long Islander just like anybody els...well there's hardly anybody like me. And I have a lifetime of "Pollyana" experiencs. I could spend my whole day cutting up the key board as I'm now financially independant as a result of the large sum of money that was left to me by the Mother Ship from the aliens that abducted me. They stole the money from the Fed with their computer skyjacking device. They just dowloaded the digits from the banks wirelessly. It was incredible. I really should'nt be complaining about things. I should just be really grateful. Maybe I should'nt be considering myself "top of the hill". Maybe I should just think of myself as "loaded and over the hill", with nothing better to do than comment online about "The Three B's" I am experiencing. Maybe I should write a book and have it published! But then the readers would put the book on the shelves and never read it and they would forget about me! Oh, no. I must find a place on the internet where I can interact with other earthlings so I can still feel a little grounded even though I'm "top of the hill".....and off of the friggin' grid 'a little bit'.

Henry Ruark December 10, 2006 8:23 pm (Pacific time)

To all: Fun's fun, and game is game; but in all decency we should provoke no further. If Dov wishes to write and by-line an Op Ed expressing his points, will ask Editor to sub for one of mine...that fair enough ? Steals-no-space that way... All that's required is full ID (confidentially) so we know who speaks, and from what background; and 750-word limit !

Henry Ruark December 10, 2006 8:00 pm (Pacific time)

Friend Dov: Forgot to suggest you write Op Ed for Big O or STATESMAN;but then you'd face necessity to ID-self openly, with word-limit of 200-only ! AND one-shot/only, too...

Henry Ruark December 10, 2006 7:56 pm (Pacific time)

Ben: Blog ? What would he power it with ? Had daily-owner once like that. We both did Edits and signed them...he got run out of town within six months, and I hadda leave the paper for United Press AGAIN ! His name was Loeb, Bill Loeb, later notorious in Manchester NH.

Ben Dover December 10, 2006 6:51 pm (Pacific time)

When is "Dover" gonna get his own blog going at his own damn website?

Dear LOL December 10, 2006 5:32 pm (Pacific time)

Do you really think that people are all on the same level? Would you have your heart operated on by your next door neighbor? Would you go to a 10 year old for advice? Would you go to a library or a television set for information? Do you think that everyone in your family and your friends are all on the same level? If you answer yes, you are just lying to yourself. People sometimes need to shut up and listen. I do it all the time, but not for the likes of you.

Anti-Anthem December 10, 2006 5:18 pm (Pacific time)

That is the worst song parody I have ever heard.

Dear Henry December 10, 2006 4:50 pm (Pacific time)

Look at what first grade comments that were made by LOL and Anthem. I never said that all people are first graders, I said most are and that is a fact. The only people that have lost the fight are all of the military personal that chose to go to places like Iraq and Afghanistan. I never wanted them to go to fight for large multinationals. It was their choice and their first grade mentality that helped them decide to go. I was against this nonsense since day one. Now who is the fool? I also never said I was the smartest person in the world but am not far from it. I also know that many of these people could not get good jobs domestically so they went to protect the very companies that outsourced their jobs domestically. If I took up alot of space, then alot of your reader are too lazy to reply with anything of substance.

Henry Ruark December 10, 2006 12:28 pm (Pacific time)

Friend Dov: Have been reviewed caustically before but still got pay-check for same; can you show some ? Re sources/documentation, find little in reviewing yours; why not send ID-emailer to S-N, and we can exchange whole files/full when you willing to by-line same. Re "venom", persuasive style sometimes requires straight talk - sorry if beyond your reading-range. Re yrwholestring, allathis from simple kudos to Tim? Re "free speech", you've used up more than Op Ed-twice...by line-count.

LOL December 10, 2006 10:29 am (Pacific time)

Good one Henry,, "rant till your own venom vanquished credibility." shhh dont tell him, he thinks he is an emperor or a prophet in his own self absorbed mind. to Dov everyone else in the world are 1st graders. yea Dov, you are special and unique*** just like everyone else.

Anthem December 10, 2006 10:10 am (Pacific time)

Oh, say can you see/ By the Doves early flight. Was so galiant but then failed , fell by the waste side and not jailed...who brought words and a fight ...all through the night..and so...

Dear Henry December 10, 2006 9:26 am (Pacific time)

Before you use words like "delusional" or never "documented" you should research the things I suggested such as "The Corporation" Fox vs. Jane Akre (because of Monsanto), etc. There is no law that holds media accountable for accuracy, you can outright lie and it is not illegal...even if you own 1000 television stations. You need to do more homework and not be so defensive. Nothing I said lacks credibility and when I site a source, you ignore it. I give up. Live in a nice, nice, fantasy. Some of your pieces are very critical and filled with venon. I am not filled with venon...frustration yes...sometimes I loose my cool....but if you don't want to learn more than you already know, I can not control that and stop talking in those God awful riddles, or is there another word for it? Use complete sentences and say what you mean. I do not find your commentary writing style the least bit amusing. Your articles are well written but nothing is perfect. Give us both a break! Because lying in media is not illegal, I have always said that 9/11 was an inside job....just like Alex Jones, and John Conner. Salem-News.com is supposed to be a new concept in media without censorship (within reason). If other people are too lazy to write in or are busy watching television when they could be writing and learning, then I out-number them in opinion. I encourage more people to participate on this site. Why don't they? One reason is that the writing skills of people under 50 prox. is so deficient that they are embarrassed to even try. They should not be ashamed. The only way they will learn is to practice writing and expressing themselves.

Henry Ruark December 10, 2006 1:17 am (Pacific time)

Dov: Never touch bacon, no matter however gracefully offered. Yours surely a bit raw yet, more "b-b" than factual,never "documented", so "delusional". But at least we allowed you to rant till your own venom vanquished credibility.

Oh Henry December 9, 2006 8:36 pm (Pacific time)

I gave you all alot of information that is not generally known and is important to gain a better perspective on how things really are. Maybe you feel that I have pissed on some parade. I will continue to feed my pearls but not to ......

Henry Ruark December 9, 2006 5:42 pm (Pacific time)

Dov: You wanta wake 'em up, get yourself a bell, and toll it in the streets...more effective, especially if you think they are all so stupid. And think of the open channel here-saved, for something worth the time other than personal hallucinations.

Dear Anonymous Hank December 9, 2006 4:05 pm (Pacific time)

I do not think that King George II should be impeached. I think that the world is entitled to a "Nuremberg Trial". I am sure that the verdict will be execution. But murderers like King George and O.J. usually get off because the general population has no guts and they are real stupid.

Dove December 9, 2006 3:57 pm (Pacific time)

Sorry Johnny, Some people are more educated than others. Do you think that a first grader knows more than you? I doubt it. If you still watch television that is test number one that you are not at a certain level. Everything is controlled on the tube. If a news story irks a sponsor, people like Ruppert Murdoch and his crew will pull the story immediately. The sponsors also dictate to broadcasters what will and will not be seen. You can look up the famous Monsanto case. Monsanto threatened Fox because their investigative reporters were going to blow the lid off of one of Monsanto's agricultural cow hormone products. The investigators, Jane Akre and her husband were initially fired even though Fox had asked them to do a story because they are top notch reporters. Even so, Monsanto said pull the story (the truth) or else. Akre won a $425,000 judgement against Fox for being fired as a "Whistleblower" which is illegal in all businesses. The only problem is that in media, you have no obligation to tell the truth, so the court took away the judgement. This is what soldiers are fighting for....a corrupt and out of control corporate America. If you want to sing "Sunshine and Lollipops," and live in a fantasy, that is your misfortune. Everything you ever heard on the television has been screened, edited, rewritten, deleted and some of the information is held back with death threats. Welcome to the real world of media. About the only thing on T.V. that is somewhat accurate is your local weather. I am not trying to bait, I am trying to educate and hopefully a few people will catch on and see that they have been lied to, manipulated and used. I am trying to help, not hurt but you and so many others are so darn defensive you will die ignorant and poor and wonder what in the hell happened. You are your own worst enemy, not me. I am trying to wake people up. You want to live in T.V. Land. By the way the newspapers, magazines and radio are controlled by the same people. The only place that you or I have a chance to learn is right here on the internet before the Feds at the request of big business and bankers take that away too.

johnny boy December 9, 2006 12:39 pm (Pacific time)

yea, Dover seems to like to bait each poster to get them to pay attention to him. beggin for attention? So does Dover have a day job or unemployed? And all of his boasting of how he knows people and reads, that makes him all knowing, more so than anyone else here?? intersting thread. 'Your America?" so where are you from Dover? what is your agenda? Would not be surprised if Mr Dover is the kind who is an aquantance of the guy who tried to plan the Shopping Sprea in IL. Also the soldier, national guard types anyhow are not brainwashed. Which is why the Active Army dislikes the guard,, but if Dover knew anything about military he would know that.

Dove December 9, 2006 12:09 pm (Pacific time)

Jane Ingenue, I can quote Jesus because he was a man, not a God. You should watch the documentary "The Corporation". One of my schoolmates, Jane Akre does a segment with her husband. You will never watch television or any main stream media again. You are right, I do believe in myself. I also know that without criticism we do not get to a higher level of awareness or consciousness.

Anonymous December 9, 2006 12:03 pm (Pacific time)

Dov or "sit-in": Musta been readin' all the wrong stuff... Re "lifetime experience", that's where "b-button feeling" originates...which was why Editor-Gov. Sprague made the original statement. Meanwhile you will obviously now immediately sign on with your Congressionals to impeach King George II, right ?

jane December 9, 2006 11:20 am (Pacific time)

Dov, first off you are wrong. in many ways. I dont hate you, I dont know you. besides, you dont deserve that much of my energy to feel hate. I find you humorous and stupid, a small minded narcissist. I am not from Salem and not brainwashed. you dont know squat about me and not going to waste my time explaining who I am to you. and so if you hate religion how can you quote Jesus? ha, so many contridictions from you. you obviously dont believe in him nor anything else, but yourself and criticizing everyone and everything else.

Dear Anonymous Hank December 9, 2006 9:00 am (Pacific time)

My experience comes from a life time of reading and personally knowing people who got shafted by the system or who fought and won. Read about a few of my schoolmates like Jane Akre, Joan Echtenkamp Klein, John Scibilia, Roger Ressmeyer, Alberta Phillips...these are just a few of the people that I spent my young and teen years around. They do not go for publicity, but if you look them up, you will see that most of them have done great things without intention....they were just good people and pure at heart like me.

Henry Ruark December 9, 2006 8:56 am (Pacific time)

To all: Do believe original comment was "right on"...with degradation, perversion of open channel clearly demonstrating characteristics of each participant. Refer all by our Search Bar to "Op Ed 'What. Why, How' May 24. 06" which sets forth our pro-standards...follow wisely.

Q Madp December 9, 2006 8:26 am (Pacific time)

Hey Tim!! Keep those reports coming. Your 3 minutes of positive reporting is a nice break from hours of daily bad reporting by the media. Now, if the actors on Ch12 could only read and give your correct website, that would be a bonus. Take care! Q www.IraqWarHeroes.org

The Analysis December 9, 2006 7:20 am (Pacific time)

Kulongoski admits in Tim's interview that Afghanistan will never have a democracy as we know it. Good Work Tim! You did something great and probably did not even realize it!

To Dr. Freud December 9, 2006 7:10 am (Pacific time)

Why should anyone disclose to the likes of someone like you who they are? Your the real sicko here and a character like you comes out bright and blaring!

Dr. Freud December 9, 2006 5:42 am (Pacific time)

Henry: Martin luther king practiced freedom of speech and was able to jar the status quo...look what hapened to him. Only in America do people actually think they have the right to freedoms of speech...yeah sure when it's just plain boring news, same old same old and doesn't effect positive change.

Dr. Freud December 9, 2006 5:37 am (Pacific time)

Henry: Fact 1:True "opinion" is factual, cogitated,rational, calm-and- reasonable,and documented.
Fact 2: That's why professionals sign what they write: You know who they are --and whether they are trustworthy.
Fact 3: The apricot seed was claimed as the cure for all cancers over 30 years ago.
Fact 5: Doctors signed falls claims against the apricot seeds claiming they have no known beneficial effect against cancer to protect a 210 billion dollar a year industry and the Illuminati's population reduction plan(equivilant to Hitlers Third Reich only a 100 times more evil, worse, right here in our "country")
Fact 6: A man by the name Jason Vale was imprisoned for treating thousands of people with the seeds and was warned to keep silent about them and the way they cured his own cancer.
Fact 7: The first Amendmant right is bogus. You're only allowed to say things that do not truly serve the people because the truth would take out the foundation of this country like a _______(you can fill in the blank on that one)Interested in knowing the truth about Jason visit this link: Jason Vale and the Cancer Mafia
Fact 6: President Bush was quoted as saying "The truth will get you killed."

The anti-Corporation December 8, 2006 10:47 pm (Pacific time)

The military has been used by corporations constantly to protect the corporation and make it expand in places that do not want it. I do not think that Afghanistan needs MacDonalds or KFC. Do you want beautiful places to be privately owned? Do you want Halliburton and Kellog Brown and Root to have more say than people? I am sick of the military being used for large multi-national interests under the guise of spreading democracy and safe guarding people domestically. All they want to do is to sell Tide and hamburgers in Afgahnistan and everywhere else......of course I mean all products, including a pet rock if they can brainwash the population that it is a cute thing to have. To hell with corporate American and using our military for their own gain....ain't that right Halliburton?

Seth December 8, 2006 9:04 pm (Pacific time)

Sorry, I mean Jim. Stop stabbing in the dark.

Eddie the Steam Queen December 8, 2006 8:52 pm (Pacific time)

James, get a grip!

The Supreme December 8, 2006 8:48 pm (Pacific time)

Hey Freud, Talk about multiple personalities and being anonymous. Who are you, Diana Ross? What a hypocrite! You can not handle different opinions in this freedom of speech land. Give us all a break!

Anonymous December 8, 2006 8:41 pm (Pacific time)

Dov'nor: For the record, I've been reporting on "free press"denigration for over 30 years... Much right here in Salem, re Gannett monopoly. From whence cometh your info? Experience? Survey? Visit? Correspondence with leaders? Newsroom-time?

Henry Ruark December 8, 2006 8:32 pm (Pacific time)

To all: Don't confuse your emotion-driven "belly-button feeling" with "opinion". True "opinion" is factual, cogitated,rational, calm-and- reasonable,and documented. That's why professionals sign what they write: You know who they are --and whether they are trustworthy. "Anonymous" run for cover when questioned since they not seeking to share information, but to manipulate, often for malign personal purposes. S-N Comments-space deserves decency from anyone respecting 1st Amendment and community. IF you hide behind mask of anonymity, best stay silent or consider what you fear --and face yourself in the mirror.

Rambo December 8, 2006 7:54 pm (Pacific time)

Tim you look good...and the Governator does too. henry you're a flip fly dude, love ya man.

Rambo December 8, 2006 7:51 pm (Pacific time)

Re: Salem-News.com reserves the right to edit or delete....you can bet your ass I saved this page to my hard drive! Now I'll have to do that from now on cause Salem has a habbit lately of deleting the good stuff.

Dr. Freud December 8, 2006 7:46 pm (Pacific time)

When all else fails....MEDICATE! I'm coming out...I want the world to know, I want to let it show...I'm coming out...

Dr. Freud December 8, 2006 7:38 pm (Pacific time)

I suggest that if one decides to go the anonymous route that they should play into their multiple personality disorder to come up with another character, as the character intended to be masked is blaring as bright as day to any one following commments on this site...aint that right eqriddler...yep that's right Freud!

OOOOPs December 8, 2006 7:31 pm (Pacific time)

Freudian slip.....

Seth December 8, 2006 7:30 pm (Pacific time)

Thankyou Al, for pointing out that the troops do nothing for us but help carry out the agenda of the Illuminati and The New World Order...they are all brainwashed Zombies just like the prophet John Conner suggests! Death to The New World Order and Death to the Zombies carrying out it's mission....they certainly ain't working to secure anybody's freedoms so anyone with that notion is brain dead.

Dear Editor December 8, 2006 7:23 pm (Pacific time)

No one has been abusive (except maybe some of your own). If you find a difference of perspective hard to handle, do not call it abusive or offensive...that is just a cop-out and disguised censorship. If anything is abusive, it is the comments that you let pass about Dovernor's mental health and meds and all the rest.

Rambo December 8, 2006 7:13 pm (Pacific time)

"But,I didn't do anything! I didn't do anything!....Adrianne,...Adrianne!...ooops wrong movie....This is better than romper room, to hell with the news! This diologue blows the news out of the water....I would actually PAY salem-News to become a member now!

Editor December 8, 2006 7:01 pm (Pacific time)

Salem-News.com reserves the right to edit or delete comments at our discretion. Comments found to be overly abusive, offensive, inciting of violence or otherwise inappropriate are flagged immediately and possibly denied. That's our policy. That's the rule.

Henry Ruark December 8, 2006 6:59 pm (Pacific time)

Dov-ie: Had not read your last (speaking hopefully !), but find it insulting to both citizens and soldiers. When you are courageous enough to stand up face-front and announce name and ID, then you have write to speak (no, not misspelled !).

Dear Anonymous December 8, 2006 6:58 pm (Pacific time)

Have you never stood back from the crowd to think for yourself? It takes courage. Why do you put yourself where you are? What are your vulnerabilites and fears, if you say you have none or only give a few comfortable revelations, you are a liar and a coward.

Dear Hank December 8, 2006 6:54 pm (Pacific time)

Tim has only been praised for what he is trying to do. Lela was not criticized, she was just given food for thought. It was stated that at heart, the people at Salem-News.com are well-intentioned....poorly informed at times, but well intentioned. Good people...just a little misguided with "group think." Your anger shocks me. Are you another censor? Are you another Putin?

Dovernor December 8, 2006 6:48 pm (Pacific time)

I express the truth and I am attacked. Who is in denial? Everything going on abroad is for the benefit of a "Corporation". This is also the name of a documentary that I suggest you watch. I must have touched a nerve, because none of you are laughing, you know that I am right.

Ethel Berman December 8, 2006 3:46 pm (Pacific time)

If your comment section is only going to be as the song said, "A Mutual Admiration Society," why not just rent out the town hall and give each other a massage and a box of chocolates.

Dovernor December 8, 2006 3:29 pm (Pacific time)

Jane, People like you and the troops hate people like me. So therefore never say that you or the troops are doing anything for me. Also do not make assumptions about my holiday or lack thereof. Do not make assumptions of my comforts or lack thereof. Do not make assumptions of my well-being or lack thereof. You have been so brainwashed it truly disgusts me even though it is partially not your fault but you are culpable as a free thinking adult. I know that you will be this way when you are an old woman, unless something or someone drastic comes into your life such as the likes of me. The world does not revolve around Salem or Oregon or the United States. China now has about 1.3 billion people, India has about 900 million people, the U.S. has only about 300 million. The Roman Empire has fallen. Your America died a long time ago and in the coming years you will feel the reality of this by the accelerated lowering of the standard of living.

Henry Ruark December 8, 2006 1:51 pm (Pacific time)

B-T-W: What absolute arrogance, even if citing "the Bible" ! Your unconcern for heavy profession responsibilities imposed both by law and working custom are on full display. Neither B. nor Tim deserve your irrational criticism; both do extremely well in excruciating circumstance --to which you have no right to add further tumult and your own choice of word torture via quote-cited...I suggest you simply "stick it"...your choice where.

Anonymous December 8, 2006 1:31 pm (Pacific time)

Dovenor: Name for new party you seem to need: "NegaNationIstas". Your creed: Kill anything progressive before it can prove itself. Your own need: Counselor who understands "top-of-hill", and why people put selves there: it is NOT via "courage" but very often ongoing denial of own vulnerabilities--and fear of life-demands.

By the way. December 8, 2006 9:42 am (Pacific time)

Tim does a better job at approval because he is far more pro-free speech and not keen on propaganda and censorship. Really, really disappointed.....I still think that you are a good person Bonnie and the rest of you too, but as Jesus would say, "Forgive Them for They Know Not What They Do." And as you know, I hate religion and blind patriotism....even if it hurts the feelings of a few little boys and a swell- head governor.

Dovernor December 8, 2006 9:37 am (Pacific time)

Thanks for deleting my comments. You call this a free country where Lela thinks she can say whatever she wants? You are censoring me. Hank thinks there is a free and open press here. What a joke. I am really disappointed. I am out of here. Enjoy the "Free" and wonderful United States, where if you do not kiss governor ass you get deleted. This is no different than the old U.S.S.R. As a matter of fact it is worse because even on a small scale such as your web based newspaper, there is no freedom of speech. If the kids in Afghanistan can not handle the truth, then send them home to their mothers because I rained on their delusional parade.

jane December 7, 2006 12:33 pm (Pacific time)

Look... It wasnt about a LOVE ME fest. I have relatives and many friends in Afghanistan w/the 41st. IT WAS ABOUT SHOWING SUPPORT FOR THE OREGON TROOPS. Our state TAG (The Adjutant General) of the OR National Guard was out there a few days before. They both went to show the 41st BDE soldiers They CARE. Hello!!! By dis'-in the governor visiting our troops, you are indivertibly DISSIN OUR Oregon TROOPS! Knock that crap off! There at about 900 or so Oregon troops, not to mention other states NG troops and other countries soldiers, having a really crappy Christmas in Afghanistan. So… as you get in your nice warm car and go to you nice warm house, think of the troops that appreciated the Governor and the TAG making the time and taking the risk' to show appreciation to those of us" who give the sacrifice for You.

Dovernor December 7, 2006 9:52 am (Pacific time)

It takes alot of courage to be totally individualistic and see the crowd from the top of the hill. It is also a very lonely place. I would rather take the path less chosen even though it creates disdain from the vast majority of people. By the way, it takes courage to seek out a mental health professional and open yourself up like a book and peal the layers of your psyche like an onion. Alot of people in states like Oregon think there is a stigma to seeking supportive mental health services (medication or not). All the people that you read about that use crystal meth and get arrested for drunk driving are not brave or evolved enough to reach out for proper mental health care. Also, those that grin and bear it are just being foolish....they too are afraid of the stigma. I would expect you to broaden the symbol of an "expensive meal". I was using that as a "petty" example of how the people we elect jet set around the world with the utmost comfort and get the utmost undeserved praise. Compare what Tim King had to go through to what the governor had to go through. King made a great sacrifice at tremendous personal cost. He is brave (even brave people can get nervous). The governor is just another jet-setter and publicity hound.

Dovernor December 7, 2006 9:37 am (Pacific time)

Tim, I appreciate what you are doing but well know that smiling polititians have one purpose....to get votes and endear themselves to the public for future personal advantage..... Everything is for publicity. I respect you for the hardship you went though to engage on this venture. You did not have this trip handed to you on a silver platter. But a Governor?....It is all for publicity. There are plenty of problems in Oregon and the U.S. that need to be addressed. The people that have chosen to serve usually do so to get the free military benefits such as higher education. Remember this was called a "poverty-draft" for people that could not find decent employment domestically and did cost-benefit analysis. (Ironically it is the people in high level of government that allow or look the other way when it comes to outsourcing of our jobs but then publicly state that they think it is terrible. The options were not good but they took the better of the two...most of them anyway. As far as the plate of food goes Tim, you should know more than anyone that politicians travel in the utmost luxury with bodyguards and all the rest (maybe you do not mind paying for this with your tax dollars but I do mind). They are surrounded by people who will protect them physically and obviously emotionally. The governor is wearing expensive (at least in appearance, eyewear and very well fitting clothing....expensive or not). You look like you were only concerned about getting the news out and covering the story. This is where I respect you but not him. (What you did was at great personal sacrifice to your friends and your family). To a governor, this is just another publicity and "Love Me" stunt. Unfortunately the truth hurts. Upon return, you deserve a big homecoming, he does not. Keep up the good work!

C'itall December 7, 2006 9:13 am (Pacific time)

I think we're ALL what's wrong with America. I agree that we can't fix everything, but we made this mess, and if all we do is bitch about it, then we're not useful whatsoever. I could care less what the gov ate on the plane, how petty. Can't you just be glad that he showed up where so many wouldn't dare- or bother? The troops appreciate it, even if you don't. BTW, meds are a good thing, sorry to imply that you're bad for needing them.

Tim King December 7, 2006 2:37 am (Pacific time)

Governor Kulongoski visited Afghanistan because his people are here. The whole point about eating good food on an airplane, what is that? I'm sure the extremely critical person using the call sign Dovernor would wave the plate for the good of the world, right? I doubt it. I think personally that this person should have some courage and print their name if they are going to criticize us for not printing every rant sent in, it lends credibility.

C'itall December 6, 2006 11:29 pm (Pacific time)

Looks to me like Dovernor's been in a lot of counselor's chairs and has a lot in his future. I'm sure they've learned a lot from you, you're a case study by all means. What you seem to forget is that this country has to have a government. You won't be satisfied no matter how hard a public servant tries, or what sacrifices they make. It's very unhealthy to be so resentful, hateful, and vengeful. Don't fix anything, just get pissed off and yell a lot. Where has that gotten you so far? Denial is a place, and you're living in it. Good luck man, don't forget your meds.

Dovernor December 6, 2006 9:29 pm (Pacific time)

Dr. Ruark, I am not talking about third world countries. Are you trying to tell me that editors don't "kill your stuff" in the United States? Now you know I have you on that one! You better believe they do. What do you think that I am in denial about? Criticize a baby-kisser like a governor and you get attacked by the general populace. I have never met a polititian yet that was not a total phoney out to try to please the majority for the purpose of keeping his or her position. You may put them on a pedestal, I put them in the garbage. Da Nile is a river in Eygpt. As far as metal health wizards, I have seen my share and guess what? They agree with me and are intimidated by me when they throw out a concept that no one has challeged before. They all have told me that they, even with their high degrees that they have learned alot from me. So, maybe if you look beyond the anger and hurt that I feel, you might learn something.

Henry Ruark December 6, 2006 8:30 pm (Pacific time)

Dovenor: In those countries you mention, what happens is that the editors kill your stuff, under governmental pressures. In some other places, believe me, from actual experience, they DO come and take you away...reported to me personally by friends working there with that happening. If things so bad here, why not do something to change it rather than sideline-scream ?? From some Freudian background (intimately-learned !) you sound to me as if in serious denial...dangerous state. Better see counselor rapidly.

Dovernor December 6, 2006 7:50 pm (Pacific time)

Lela, One thing that always amazes me about Americans, they have in their subconscious this notion that if you speak your mind in Canada, Australia, Denmark, Holland, France, England, Sweden, Norway, Belgium, Germany etc. that someone comes to take you away. If you want to fiddle while Rome is burning, that is your business. Some of us are not so Pollyanna. If I told you what I really see going on in this country, the editor would not print it out of fear for retribution. So, am I really allowed to speak my mind in the United States? The answer is a resounding NO!

Lela December 6, 2006 6:11 pm (Pacific time)

Well Dovernor aren't you glad you are living in a country where you can speak your mind and not worry about someone knocking on your door to take you away because you spoke up. Why don't you try looking around and seeing the good around you, as it sounds as if all you see is the bad. I feel so sorry for you if all you see is the bad in your life. No, life isn't perfect and maybe parts of our government isn't perfect but there is always something good to cherish, but only if you look for it.

Dovernor December 6, 2006 10:59 am (Pacific time)

Governor, We do not even have stability here. All those resources that are being spent abroad are needed home (if you can call this home anymore). How can they have a democracy when we still have places like Florida, which is a Banana Republic and other states as corrupt. We do not even have free, honest elections here, how can you talk about helping people over there. Ask the wide variety of opinions of black America what they think. You can spout your jibberish a world away but you are wasteing my MONEY! GIVE IT BACK! What kind of fancy meal did you have on the plane and how many tax deductions do you take? Typical politician. You are all the same....Dem-Rep...it is the same old garbage!

Jean Marie December 6, 2006 2:53 am (Pacific time)

How cool to see our Governor showing his support by actually showing up in a war zone. Once a Marine, always a Marine! I guess that goes for Tim, too!

Henry Ruark December 6, 2006 1:48 am (Pacific time)

Beautiful job, Tim ! Unique opportunity for Oregon people to see leader-in-action, thus understand him and their own situation. S-N demonstrating high value of real community service via this project.

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Oregon Governor on the Ground in Afghanistan (VIDEO)

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