by Flain Douglas, Factotum
The militarization of city police forces has become the latest "hot button" issue in the United States. No community, large or small, is immune, as citizens of Blencoe, Iowa recently discovered.
Under the Department of Defense Excess Property Program (DoD 1033), the Blencoe police force has been provided with surplus military equipment for use in local law enforcement.
The materials arrived at 10:00 a.m., delivered by a uniformed representative of the United Parcel Service. Mayor Rusty Collison accepted the equipment on behalf of the town in a small ceremony last Friday.
As part of DoD 1033, Blencoe has received a pallet of "Cheesy Omelet" Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) and two entrenching tools.
Mayor Collison presented one of the tools to the wife of Blencoe's Chief of Police, Mrs. Rusty Collison.
In a brief speech, Mayor Collison stated, "With great power, comes great responsibility."
Blencoe Community Center to Host Breakfast Fundraiser
The Blencoe Sunrise Club will host a community breakfast this coming Sunday. Funds raised by the breakfast will be dedicated to the construction of new sidewalks, replacing those mistakenly torn up last week.
The menu includes:
- A Cheesy Omelet
- Side of Fruit Cocktail
- Crackers
- Spread
- Dessert
- Skittles
- Beverages - Gatorade-like drink mixes, coffee, tea (choice of one)
- Hot sauce
- Flameless Ration Heater (not for consumption)
- Accessories - may include spoon, matches, creamer, sugar, salt, chewing gum, toilet paper, etc.
In addition to the delicious meal, the Sunrise Club will hold a raffle. First prize: a camping shovel!
