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Posts published in “Day: February 22, 2009”

On the base

The Northwest's military bases are not especially large in number - compared in some other parts of the country - but they are substantial and they are distinct. As a site of political and social culture, they are distinct from whatever is around them, a separate world. It isn't often explored by outsiders.

The death of a 16-year-old girl at Fort Lewis (near Tacoma) has prompted some examination. A piece in the Seattle Times today is well worth the read, as it notes some of the fallout from the case and the larger picture it illuminates.

From the Times: "The incident has shone an unflattering light on the late-night culture at Fort Lewis, which functions like a small city behind its gates. It also has exposed flaws in the post's policies and security, sparking changes that took effect last week, with more changes likely in the works."

‘Into a pit’

Now that the federal stimulus money has been signed off, but before any fallout from it (whatever that is, will take weeks at least to start to be felt), is a useful time for a review of where we are. The view in Oregon is not far off from many: Headed "into a pit," says the chief state economist.

A solid Oregonian overview runs today.