Happy Orange-Threat-Level New Year!

[EstimatedProphet]

I just got through an 11-hour trip to fly 3 hours (as is now typical). Unfortunately I had to spend a 4 hour layover in Houston. While there, there was a broadcast message over the loudspeakers on an approximately 20 minute loop which said (I am paraphrasing, but not much) "There is an Orange Level alert, from the Department of Homeland Security. This airport is under high surveillance. Those making inappropriate comments or jokes about the alert, or the security procedures, or staff, are subject to arrest."
Nice, huh? I know it wouldn't be exactly SMART to go through the airport making jokes about the security personnel (they aren't often known for their sense of humor), but I doubt it needs to be illegal, especially if it conflicts with that pesky Freedom of Speech thingie.
The monsters are due on Maple Street, people.

[POed_Ex_Repub]

1. Been there, done that.

Fun wasn't it? :crazy:

[otohara]

2. Which Airport

this is insane

[EstimatedProphet]

3. Oh, the airport!

Forgot to mention, it was George Bush International in Houston.
What a coinkidink.

[Barkley]

4. Orange Level Alert at Bush International

"He who fights with monsters might take care lest he thereby become a monster. And if you gaze for long into an abyss, the abyss gazes also into you."

- F. Neitzche

[EstimatedProphet]

5. OK, I'll try not to become a monster.

However, I do still see an inherent violation of free speech in not being able to make a COMMENT about security measures. Let's be specific about this-the message in the airport was not about making a comment that could be interpreted as a threat, it was about making a comment, period. Jokes. Statements. Etc. All were stated to be cause for arrest.
Sorry, but that does make me mad.

[newyawker99]

7. Hi EstimatedProphet!!

Welcome to DU!! :toast:

[newyawker99]

6. Hi Barkley!!

Welcome to DU!! :toast: