Posted on 01/23/2006 8:50:04 AM PST by 1curiousmind
Admittedly, every large gathering of US citizens is a potential target for a terrorist attack. And every Superbowl since 9/11 has had the potential to be a target due to the world-wide spotlight and the cultural significance of a uniquely American spectacle.
However, what makes this year's Superbowl in Detroit different is its location. The venue, Ford Field, is located less than 7,000 ft from Canada. Another venue, the Expo Center, is right on the water, less than 2,000 feet from the Canadian side. It will be hosting a 5-day event for children called "The NFL Experience".
HERE'S WHAT SCARES ME: This time terrorists could launch several different kinds of attacks from outside the country. No more need to sneak across the border. In my opinion, that is something that we should be very concerned about.
We should remember that some of the 9/11 attackers entered the US from Canada in the preceding days. Another potential attack was, by a stroke of luck, intercepted at a border crossing near Seattle. Canada is known for its relaxed immigration policy. The Canadian government seems to be continuing to operate with a pre 9/11 mentality. Even their border agents have held repeated strikes because they are not allowed to carry firearms. http://www.wxyz.com/wxyz/nw_local_news/article/0,2132,WXYZ_15924_4228631,00.html
Both Toronto and Montreal (not to mention metro Detroit) have very sizable Muslim and Middle eastern populations. Thousands are expected to visit Windsor and Detroit from these cities during the Superbowl.
Add to this the timing of BinLaden's latest audiotape. Even some of his statements indicate that they have been patiently awaiting the right time to strike and soon this will take place in our "heartland".
A simple search of this website reveals some patterns of possible former attempts that were thwarted. Like the DC to Houston flight (CO 1519) that was cancelled at the last minute during the 2004 Superbowl due to a specific terror threat. http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1069659/posts
On Oct 2, 2005 a student at Oklahoma University reportedly blew himself up outside a packed stadium of 84,000. The act was officially ruled a suicide even though he had been involved at a local Mosque (one that had ties to the 9/11 terrorists) Even his roommate was a Pakistani that had a plane ticket to Algeria. http://tapscottscopydesk.blogspot.com/2006/01/from-ou-to-algeria-was-suicide-bomber.html
QUESTION: Had you even heard of this? Not me!
Then on Dec 23 three Algerians were arrested in Italy and it was reported that plans were uncovered to blowup US stadiums among other targets. http://www.turkishpress.com/news.asp?id=93048 Coincidence? Or did the FBI play dumb in order to get to this Algerian group?
So back to my original point: Are we sure that Canada is on top of this potential threat? What about Canadian airspace? A plane loaded with explosives could reach Ford Field within 3-5 seconds of entering US airspace. Shoulder-launched grenades could easily reach the Expo Center with accuracy. An attack by boat is also possible. And what about the Ambassador bridge and the Detroit/Windsor Tunnel? I believe that both of these are vulnerable to attack without the need to pass through US Customs. Windsor hotels and Casinos will be packed with US visitors as well. I think these are enough examples to make it clear that we are depending on our good neighbor to the north to help protect us this time. Is our trust well-placed? I have my doubts.
IBTZ
Strange first post!
I like cheese. Do you like cheese?
PS, IBTZ
Welcome to FR.
Right now, its a lot of speculation.
But I have no doubt whatsoever that the security measures being taken (on the US' part) are higher than anyone might suspect.
Just tell the kids to "Watch out for the Islamic BOOGEYMAN!!!!"
welcome to Free Republic...
enjoy your stay
Canada couldn't protect a tangerine, let alone the Super Bowl.
Why will he be zotted? It might be a vanity, but he asks a good question, and brings up some valid points. I suspect our side is taking precautions--but nevertheless, it's a good question, and I really don't trust Canada at this time.
I intended to include this link in my original post:
http://www.floppingaces.net/2006/01/13/superbowl-possible-target-for-al-qaeda/
did i make it??????????
Y2K syndrome all over again.
Hold your fire!!!! I think he raises a good question.
i travel to canada alot on business.....the canadian side of the border crossing is a joke....anybody could just waltz on over......
AND...they prepared themselves by frequenting Miami strip clubs. The Windsor Ballet is much less skanky than South Beach. Let's encourage the Canoogians to arrest all Middle Eastern types attending the ballet!
Maybe, I'll head over and do a little sleuthing meownself.
Good post (the orig., not your reply)
/note to self: Stay north of Clare for the weekend
Blog Pimp!
Fo' da shizzle!
Awe shucks, I know its a good question but we get so few chances to be ibtz. Can't we just zot him alittle?
What is the date of the Superbowl?
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