A view from Rosario Beach.
B.C. excursion boat heads out.
Looking out to Northwest Island
Site details here.
A view from Sharpe Cove.
Cheerful social media posts with plenty of exclamation points coming from public agencies and volunteer groups with an eye on the health of local waters.
Zero questions from newspeople.
Image above:
Washington State Dept. of Health status updated July 15, 2019.
Source: Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife OAK HARBOR BEACH PARK
“State Dept. of Health cautions that Clams, Oysters and Mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time.”
“Water Quality Comment: This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Eight months back
Plant up & running the day prior to this article:
November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times
Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running
Article indicates the cost of the project is $142 million.
November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times
Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online
“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”
See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.
Recent project cost update:
May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Oak Harbor asks Navy to pay $39 million to connect to city sewer system
Article indicates the cost of the project is $149 million.
Coupeville
A situation linked to the Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant? Love to see newspeople provide updated reporting on this.
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
Sounds like the sewage treatment plant is sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?
Looking for updated reporting from newspeople anywhere in the Puget Sound area, also updates from public agencies and volunteer groups with an eye on the health of local waters.
Love to see newspeople ask questions on the water quality impact of Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant outfalls.
Stewardship is a priority:
Sign below posted at Flintstone Park educates the public on local waters.
Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area
Background:
More here:
Oak Harbor Splash Park – Water Quality & Conservation
Local Shellfish Aren’t Celebrating
“…the dryer has been the last piece of the puzzle.”
“Shellfish are very sensitive to pollution levels…” – Puget Sound Update
Shipwreck Shores – Zero Questions From Newspeople
An eye on the health of local waters – Whidbey sewage treatment plant outfalls
Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople
Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea
Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant
Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.
In terms of American rights and freedoms- The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.
Legal marijuana, concealed carry of handguns, semi automatic rifle sales, federal minimum drinking age, bump stock ban, interracial marriage, gay marriage, tobacco sales, voting rights, etc.
None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.
As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.
If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.
More here:
Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part
1967
Did the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to safeguard American freedoms?
Was it the Viet Cong that set up laws in 16 US states to prohibit interracial marriage?
Hometown Pride
“For the past couple of years, the Whidbey News-Times paid the insurance for the Veterans Day Parade, about $200, because it was a small way of saying thank you to the men and women who sacrificed so that we may have our liberties, including our Freedom of Speech.”
Were US troops sent to Vietnam so that Americans could be free to send letters to the editor?
Is there any case in which the US Armed Forces have been sent to distant lands on a mission to protect freedom of speech?
Is protecting freedom of speech even part of training scenarios?
Military Town – Hometown Pride
1965
Did the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to safeguard American freedoms?
Was it the Viet Cong that restricted rights to freedom of speech or expression in public schools?
JUNE 10, 2019 TIME
High School Students’ Graduation Speeches Keep Getting Censored. But They’re Seen by Millions Anyway
“In 1965, a young Iowa middle schooler named Mary Beth Tinker decided to wear a black armband to school to protest the war in Vietnam. She was suspended for doing so, eventually leading to 1969 Supreme Court case Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District. In a 7-2 decision, the court found that students at public schools maintain their First Amendment right to free speech.”
One of the nation’s largest, oldest and most respected veterans organizations tells us: Veterans, not politicians, ‘give us the right to vote,’ observers at Amherst Veterans Day ceremonies told
Veterans give rights?
It turns out The Troops were in no hurry to enable all adults to act on their right to vote.
US Military operations conducted in the 1940s, 50s & 60s didn’t get the job done.
It wasn’t until July of 1971 that 18 year old adults could take delivery on one of the freedoms we hear so much about.
Hey school teachers–
If veterans fought for our right to vote- how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
Possibly of interest:
Let’s Honor The Troops In Honest Ways
USO: “…82% of military families feel that the public doesn’t understand their sacrifices.”
Armistice Day Is Now Free Chow Day
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
Watching the waves at Fort Ebey
From comments:
“If we break these people, we should try to fix these people. Better yet we should stop breaking them to begin with.”
Congressman Derek Kilmer
Wars are for freedom and democracy.
Congressman Kilmer,
If wars are fought for democracy- how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
With all this talk of freedom- would it be OK to grow a marijuana plant in the back yard?
Can I take my 20 year old girlfriend (a responsible adult) down to the bar to order up a few beers for freedom?
Should we check with the Joint Chiefs of Staff first?
Need more people to stay for undeclared/unwon wars that never end update:
July 8th, 2019 Marine Corps Times
The Corps is offering big bonus bucks for ground combat Marines in 2020
“…some Marines may be eligible for bonuses and extra kicker payments totaling nearly $90,000.”
“The Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Robert B. Neller has spent the past several years overhauling Corps’ ground combat element by equipping the force with new automatic weapons, rocket launchers, drones and tablets.”
The Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars goes back to 1949.
Possibly of interest:
Let’s Honor The Troops In Honest Ways
USO: “…82% of military families feel that the public doesn’t understand their sacrifices.”
Jet Noise Protects Your Right To Protest?
Armistice Day – Six Months Out
Armistice Day Is Now Free Chow Day
U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom
Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom
Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
Low tide and fog at Libbey Beach
Are newspeople forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security funding and performance?
Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound meth or heroin?
Even one time?
Newspeople remain silent.
Port Angeles
June 23, 2019 Peninsula Daily News
Border Patrol contingent shrinks on Peninsula
“Lindsay said agents are focused on getting a handle on cross-border maritime traffic in partnership with the Coast Guard, Canadian authorities, state and local law enforcement agencies and tribal law enforcement officials to interdict smuggling and other illegal activities.”
Island County
2014
Island county to purchase new patrol boat to help with Puget Sound security:
Federal grant money goes to “…gain a better grasp on cross border activity and to prevent illegal crossings.”
“Funding for the boat was issued through the Homeland Security Grant Program under Operation Stonegarden.”
Has there been any post 911 history of maritime “cross-border activity” on Whidbey Island?
Has the Island County Homeland Security-funded patrol boat been involved in any arrest or seizure related in any way to the US/Canada border?
Patrol boats fail to keep bad guys from moving product into Bremerton and Port Angeles:
July 5, 2109 Kitsap Sun
Detectives seize over $900,000 worth of drugs in Bremerton bust
July 5, 2019 Peninsula Daily News
Two arrested, heroin and methamphetamine seized at Port Angeles motels
July 6, 2019 Peninsula Daily News
Sheriff’s Office: Port Angeles man arrested with more than $11,000 in narcotics
Welcome Home Troops
Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan- working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.
Don’t worry- The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:
Is local CBP staffing and infrastructure at all relevant in keeping heroin and meth from entering Port Angeles, Clallam County, the Olympic Peninsula, or the Puget Sound area?
US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA
An upgrade in staff requiring a new, $11.9 million, 50 agent facility. Secret arrest statistics, denied FOIA requests, heroin and meth in the community, no cross-border USBP arrest in more than 9 years, fraudulent overtime claims, 1,200-horsepower interceptor boats and zero questions from the press.
Possibly of interest-
Newspeople play the role of federal public affairs personnel during Operation Macho Swagger– a ride-along to let us know what is being done to keep the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca safe from B.C. incursions: Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin
Local meth news stories here.
Local heroin news stories here.
If you run a government operation- these are the reporters you want to see on interview day:
More here:
Whidbey Homeland Security Grant Money- Newspeople Remain Silent
Port Angeles Border Patrol – Newspeople Remain Silent
Port Angeles CBP Staffing & Infrastructure – Newspeople Remain Silent
Port Angeles CBP – Keeping Meth Out of Town?
Puget Sound Homeland Security Industrial Complex
Port Angeles Heroin – Newspeople Remain Silent
Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
Watching for cross-border maritime traffic on an early winter morning- Point Wilson, Washington
The bend test
These guys know how to take care of business:
10 Weeks of Sunshine IPA
Scuttlebutt Brewing Company
Newspeople aren’t showing up to ask questions. Our questions appear in bold type.
June 25, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Soak up the fun at launching of Shipwreck Shores
“The waterside splash pad, dubbed Shipwreck Shores, features a pretend shipwreck, a craggy stream and plenty of squirting water. It utilizes clean city water — not treated water from the treatment plant nor reused water.”
From comments:
“Since the multi million dollar facility is state of the art and you are supposed to be able to drink the water after treatment…..shouldn’t they use that water at the splash park?”
Article makes no mention of local water quality impacted by sewage treatment plant outfall.
Clean City Water?
Is the state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant sending unsafe product into local waters?
June 28, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
City asks for reduced water use
From comments:
“…reduce their water usage by 10 percent…shorter showers, turn off water while brushing teeth, let lawns go dormant in the summer, water plants deeply and less often, fix leaks and flush toilets less”
“Yes, and be sure to go the Grand Opening of the City of Oak Harbor’s “Shipwreck Shores” water splash park where all such reductions will be summarily dismissed and ignored.”
Will Clean City Water be used to operate the Splash Park in the months ahead? How clean is the product leaving the sewage treatment plant outfall?
Image at top of page:
Washington State Dept. of Health status updated June 30, 2019.
Source: Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife OAK HARBOR BEACH PARK
“State Dept. of Health cautions that Clams, Oysters and Mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time.”
“Water Quality Comment: This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
More than seven months ago:
November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times
Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running
Article indicates the cost of the project is $142 million.
November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times
Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online
“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”
See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.
Recent project cost update:
May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Oak Harbor asks Navy to pay $39 million to connect to city sewer system
Article indicates the cost of the project is $149 million.
Coupeville
A situation linked to the Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant? Love to see newspeople provide updated reporting on this.
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
Sounds like the sewage treatment plant is sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?
Looking for updated reporting from newspeople anywhere in the Puget Sound area, also updates from public agencies and volunteer groups with an eye on the health of local waters.
Love to see newspeople ask questions on the water quality impact of Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant outfalls.
More here:
Local Shellfish Aren’t Celebrating
“…the dryer has been the last piece of the puzzle.”
“Shellfish are very sensitive to pollution levels…” – Puget Sound Update
Shipwreck Shores – Zero Questions From Newspeople
An eye on the health of local waters – Whidbey sewage treatment plant outfalls
Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople
Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea
Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant
Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
What I find interesting about politics:
Taking a look at what does not change no matter what political party or personality is in office.
People who are willing to question their chosen political party.
Also a big fan of alternative media.
2020 Democratic Debate Train Wreck & Review
Found it here:
More here:
No Matter What Political Party Or Personality Is In Office
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo- Nordland Transit Center
The Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars goes back to 1949.
Found it here: Lew Rockwell
June 27, 2019 Patrick J. Buchanan
Memo to Trump: Trade Bolton for Tulsi
“At the end of the Cold War, we were the lone superpower. Who forfeited our preeminence? Who bled us of 7,000 U.S. lives and $6 trillion in endless Middle East wars? Who got us into this Cold War II?”
“Was all this the doing of those damnable isolationists again?”
Possibly of interest:
Let’s Honor The Troops In Honest Ways
USO: “…82% of military families feel that the public doesn’t understand their sacrifices.”
Jet Noise Protects Your Right To Protest?
Armistice Day – Six Months Out
Armistice Day Is Now Free Chow Day
U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom
Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom
Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
Fort Ebey Bluff Trail
KOMO News
June 26, 2019 The Seattle Times
Will Governor Inslee advocate for reducing environmental impacts by shutting down undeclared/unwon wars that never end?
The Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars goes back to 1949.
Newspeople- please let us know.
More here:
Newspeople Remain Silent – Missing A Chance To Ask Questions
Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.
Are newspeople forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security funding and performance?
Port Angeles Border Patrol – Newspeople Remain Silent
News Tip/Story idea:
Whidbey Island
New sewage treatment plant in operation since 11/15/18.
WDFW:
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Local Shellfish Aren’t Celebrating
Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Image above:
Washington State Dept. of Health status updated June 26, 2019.
Source: Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife OAK HARBOR BEACH PARK
“State Dept. of Health cautions that Clams, Oysters and Mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time.”
“Water Quality Comment: This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
June 25, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Soak up the fun at launching of Shipwreck Shores
“The waterside splash pad, dubbed Shipwreck Shores, features a pretend shipwreck, a craggy stream and plenty of squirting water. It utilizes clean city water — not treated water from the treatment plant nor reused water.”
From comments:
“Since the multi million dollar facility is state of the art and you are supposed to be able to drink the water after treatment…..shouldn’t they use that water at the splash park?”
Article makes no mention of local water quality impacted by sewage treatment plant outfall.
We’re not seeing any signs of improvement in more than 7 months.
Looking for updated reporting from newspeople anywhere in the Puget Sound area, also updates from public agencies and volunteer groups with an eye on the health of local waters.
Love to see newspeople ask questions on the water quality impact of Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant outfalls.
Stewardship is a priority:
Sign below posted at Flintstone Park educates the public on local waters.
Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area
More than seven months ago:
November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times
Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running
Article indicates the cost of the project is $142 million.
November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times
Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online
“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”
See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.
Recent project cost update:
May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Oak Harbor asks Navy to pay $39 million to connect to city sewer system
Article indicates the cost of the project is $149 million.
Coupeville
A situation linked to the Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant? Love to see newspeople provide updated reporting on this.
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
Sounds like the sewage treatment plant is sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?
More here:
“…the dryer has been the last piece of the puzzle.”
“Shellfish are very sensitive to pollution levels…” – Puget Sound Update
Shipwreck Shores – Zero Questions From Newspeople
An eye on the health of local waters – Whidbey sewage treatment plant outfalls
Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople
Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea
Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant
Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Last time around, President Trump may have benefited from an anti-Obama/Hillary energy that is gone now.
People sold on his positive potential have had time to find out if Mexico would pay for a wall or if The Troops would be coming home from undeclared/unwon wars that never end.
Farmers have felt the impact of trade tensions.
Various companies, their employees and families too.
June 25, 2019 The Bulwark
The Haley-Trump Trial Balloon Is Pitiful
June 25 2019 Fox 56
Pence launches ‘Latinos for Trump’ coalition
Looks like there’s some selling to do.
American popular and political culture insists on dividing people up into groups- then assigning a separate value to each group. Surely, members of a specific group would think, act & vote as one.
More here:
Veterans Support All Candidates 2020!
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo- Port Townsend Farmers Market
June 23, 2019 Peninsula Daily News
Border Patrol contingent shrinks on Peninsula
“Border Patrol staffing totaled four agents in 2006. They worked in undersized quarters in downtown Port Angeles — in what’s now the Richard B. Anderson Federal Building.”
“The station had 42 personnel when ribbon-cutting ceremonies marked the headquarters’ opening Sept. 14, 2012.”
“Increased presence of Border Patrol agents between 2006-2010 sparked protests over such practices as the agency setting up checkpoints on U.S. Highway 101 to apprehend illegal immigrants and controversy over construction of the new headquarters to house more agents.”
“Lindsay said agents are focused on getting a handle on cross-border maritime traffic in partnership with the Coast Guard, Canadian authorities, state and local law enforcement agencies and tribal law enforcement officials to interdict smuggling and other illegal activities.”
Newspeople aren’t showing up to ask questions.
We’ll ask a few of our own here. Our questions appear in bold type.
Newspeople,
Why did the Blaine Sector Weekly US Border Patrol blotter go extinct?
When is the last time the Port Angeles Border Patrol made an arrest of any kind?
Any arrests connected to cross-border maritime traffic?
When local USBP staffing went from four to 42 agents, what increase in arrests and apprehensions was achieved?
Why are Border Patrol arrest statistics secret at Port Angeles?
Elsewhere, when there’s something to brag about- the public is promptly notified:
Border Patrol K-9 Sniffs out Cocaine Hidden in Dashboard
Are fraudulent overtime claims still the norm at Port Angeles?
Border Patrol whistleblower pays price for refusing overtime pay
Suspicionless checkpoints and bus boardings- away from border crossings and ports of entry:
Did the use of these checkpoints in Jefferson and Clallam Counties result in the seizure of any inbound heroin or meth?
Getting a handle on cross-border maritime traffic:
What role do 1,200-horsepower Border Patrol Interceptor boats play in keeping meth and heroin away from the Puget Sound area?
2011-
2013-
Heroin epidemic gripping Port Angeles
2015-
Port Angeles residents fed up with heroin problem
2017-
“Residents who filled the Port Angeles City Council chambers and lobby Tuesday night said they were fed up with the heroin epidemic in Clallam County and asked what is being done to stop opioid abuse and what they can do to help.”
2019-
KING 5 News
“Jail staff are now using medication to help addicts detox from heroin while in custody.”
Peninsula Daily News
Clallam health official: Narcan helping to cut overdose deaths
“About half of the overdoses have been from prescription drugs, not heroin, she said.” What about the other half?
Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound meth or heroin?
Even one time?
Newspeople remain silent.
Possibly of interest-
Newspeople play the role of federal public affairs personnel during Operation Macho Swagger– a ride-along to let us know what is being done to keep the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca safe from B.C. incursions: Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin
The Border Patrol has worked against itself on the Olympic Peninsula.
Secret arrest statistics and denied FOIA requests do not enhance agency credibility. Local law enforcement organizations avoid all this by establishing working relationships with the press.
It’s time for journalists to make appointments, schedule interviews and ask some questions. Suggested topics here: News tip/story idea
If no answers are available, please do a story describing the working relationship you have with the Washington State Patrol, local sheriffs departments and city police departments. Any denied FOIA requests generated by these agencies? Please compare to the Border Patrol at Port Angeles.
If you run a government operation- these are the reporters you want to see on interview day:
JFK speaks about the role of the press in a free society:
More here:
Port Angeles CBP Staffing & Infrastructure – Newspeople Remain Silent
Port Angeles CBP – Keeping Meth Out of Town?
Puget Sound Homeland Security Industrial Complex
Port Angeles Heroin – Newspeople Remain Silent
Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
Watching for cross-border maritime traffic on an early winter morning- Point Wilson, Washington
First time out to a new trail today at Fort Ebey.
A couple of eagles watched over the beach during our visit.
June 21, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Sound Off: Anti-jet noise activists’ narrative not rooted in reality
“Navy personnel and their young families are among our most committed and vibrant community members. In addition to ensuring a superlative national defense, they perform countless hours of community service and involvement.”
A superlative national defense?
The Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911. We haven’t won a war since.
Congressman Derek Kilmer
Wars are for freedom and democracy.
Congressman Kilmer,
If wars are fought for democracy- how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
With all this talk of freedom- would it be OK to grow a marijuana plant in the back yard?
Can I take my 20 year old girlfriend (a responsible adult) down to the bar to order up a few beers for freedom?
Should we check with the Joint Chiefs of Staff first?
Legal marijuana, concealed carry of handguns, semi automatic rifle sales, federal minimum drinking age, bump stock ban, interracial marriage, gay marriage, tobacco sales, voting rights, etc.
None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.
Hometown Pride
“For the past couple of years, the Whidbey News-Times paid the insurance for the Veterans Day Parade, about $200, because it was a small way of saying thank you to the men and women who sacrificed so that we may have our liberties, including our Freedom of Speech.”
Were US troops sent to Vietnam so that Americans could be free to send letters to the editor?
Is there any case in which the US Armed Forces have been sent to distant lands on a mission to protect freedom of speech?
Is protecting freedom of speech even part of training scenarios?
Military Town – Hometown Pride
As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.
If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.
In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.
In terms of American rights and freedoms- The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.
Possibly of interest:
USO: “…82% of military families feel that the public doesn’t understand their sacrifices.”
Jet Noise Protects Your Right To Protest?
Armistice Day – Six Months Out
Armistice Day Is Now Free Chow Day
U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom
Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom
Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo-
Watching the waves at Fort Ebey
Image above:
Washington State Dept. of Health status updated June 22, 2019.
Source: Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife OAK HARBOR BEACH PARK
“State Dept. of Health cautions that Clams, Oysters and Mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time.”
“Water Quality Comment: This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
June 21, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Operators working to de-stink dryer at sewage treatment plant
“The plant went online last fall — and was odor-free, at least on the outside — but the dryer has been the last piece of the puzzle. The city purchased the complex machine from a company in Germany and even sent a technician on a tour of German plants that use the technology.”
Article makes no mention of local water quality impacted by sewage treatment plant outfall.
We’re not seeing any signs of improvement in more than 7 months.
Looking for updated reporting from newspeople anywhere in the Puget Sound area, also updates from public agencies and volunteer groups with an eye on the health of local waters.
Love to see newspeople ask questions on the water quality impact of Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant outfalls.
More than seven months ago:
November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times
Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running
Article indicates the cost of the project is $142 million.
November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times
Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online
“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”
See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.
Recent project cost update:
May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times
Oak Harbor asks Navy to pay $39 million to connect to city sewer system
Article indicates the cost of the project is $149 million.
Coupeville
A situation linked to the Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant? Love to see newspeople provide updated reporting on this.
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing
“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”
Source: WDFW
Sounds like the sewage treatment plant is sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?
More here:
“Shellfish are very sensitive to pollution levels…” – Puget Sound Update
Shipwreck Shores – Zero Questions From Newspeople
An eye on the health of local waters – Whidbey sewage treatment plant outfalls
Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople
Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea
Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant
Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?
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US Troops at the border, El Chapo takedown, opioid lawsuits, REAL ID, Homeland Security grant money, strict post 911 security protocols and a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security fail to keep meth out of Boone County, Arkansas:
Jun 14, 2019 KYTV News
Prosecuting attorney gives new details about large meth bust in Boone County, Arkansas
“The 14th Judicial District prosecuting attorney said the drug bust is the largest meth bust in the western district of Arkansas, and the second largest in the whole state.”
“This last phase of the operation lasted a little over a year and a half, and this 149 pounds was part of this last phase of this investigation,” said Chief Chris Graddy.
“Sheriff Mike Moore said this was just one phase of a six-year investigation, and more than 100 people have been charged over that time period.”
“The prosecuting attorney said this bust would not be possible without the work of local law enforcement and the help of the federal government.”
Federal government swings into action after meth moves past federal agents manning a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security- then on into Boone County, Arkansas.
Outstanding team effort guys.
“Not only did we get this methamphetamine off the street, we took cash from the bad guys that’ll be used to fight drugs, we took vehicles from the bad guys that’ll be used to fight what’s happened,” Ethredge said.
“The methamphetamine that’s being dealt with by law enforcement today that we’re prosecuting is not being made locally,” Ethredge said. “It’s being imported. We know from this particular case exactly how the traffic of this meth came in from this community: where it came out of Mexico, the line it took to get here.”
These busts can get real big when criminal activity is allowed to develop over a period of six years.
Wonder what was happening at border crossing inspections during the 6 years these folks were under investigation.
Do the good guys who made the local bust notify the good guys at the border about the weak links in their process?
Love to see newspeople ask:
Were federal authorities at the border notified during this 6-year ongoing investigation?
Did the meth traffickers get fast track screening at the border so as not to disrupt this 6-year ongoing investigation?
If the meth traffickers were given a pass at the border- would that have tipped them off as to the investigation- or would that have been seen as standard protocol?
Imagine that LE authorities observe a shoplifter or bank robber in action. Instead of going in to make an arrest they back off and conduct an investigation that goes on for 6 years. What if they applied the same tactic Re: crimes involving arson, terrorism, child abuse, DUI, etc.
April 28, 2019 Region 8 News
Report: Mexican drug cartels bringing pure meth to Northwest Arkansas
Apr 25, 2019 KNWA News
Special Report: Pure Meth Imported By Mexican Drug Cartels Threatens Arkansans
“What we’re seeing coming from Mexico is a better, quality product. It’s almost 99-percent pure. It’s better quality, there’s more of it, it’s cheaper,” said Dak Kees, United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas.
“Kees says cars with homemade compartments carry pounds of meth at a time from the southern border across state lines.”
Vehicles with customized compartments?
Same tactic in Montana:
“Task force officers are also learning that vehicles with aftermarket switches and compartments are also being used to cross the border into Mexico and come back up to Montana, likely several times.”
Love to see newspeople ask:
If K-9 screenings and vehicle inspections for customized switches and compartments are effective when conducted by law enforcement authorities in Montana- why don’t these same practices work at the border?
Welcome Home Troops
Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan- working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.
Don’t worry-
The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:
More here:
K-9 Screenings After Meth Moves Past $40.6 Billion US Dept. of Homeland Security
Montana – Homeland Security Meth Racket Rolls On
Port Angeles CBP – Keeping Meth Out of Town?
Are newspeople forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security funding and performance?
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt
Photo- A symbol of drug war efficiency and newspeople playing along by not asking any questions.
A Promoted Tweet from the USO frequently reminds us that:
“According to the 2018 Blue Star Families’ Military Family Lifestyle Survey, 82% of military families feel that the public doesn’t understand their sacrifices. Let’s change that this Military Appreciation Month. Sign the card to help us reach 200K+ Americans thanking our troops…”
Military Appreciation Month was in May. The tweets are still coming in mid June.
I have not attempted to mute these tweets, because I see them as an opportunity to think about the message.
Thoughts for the USO:
People might come around if they had a say in undeclared/unwon wars that never end. When do we get to vote on all this?
Do the folks who honor and support military families also advocate for phasing out undeclared/unwon wars that never end?
If some sort of military/civilian divide has taken hold, here are a few recommendations for ending the divide:
Stop glorifying military service.
As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.
Stop telling us that undeclared/unwon wars overseas are somehow linked to American rights & freedoms.
In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.
In terms of American rights and freedoms- The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.
Many comments are posted below these USO tweets. Most are supportive, something like: My husband did 23 years in the Army and we support your sacrifices.
If you are proud of your time in uniform do you automatically support decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas?
This comment stood out to me:
“The Military and everyone in it are practically worshipped in this country.
I find it deeply disturbing.”
I’d have more respect for traditional veterans groups and the organizations that support military service if they promoted more of an Armistice Day message.
We’re not there yet.
One of the nation’s largest, oldest and most respected veterans organizations tells us: Veterans, not politicians, ‘give us the right to vote,’ observers at Amherst Veterans Day ceremonies told
Veterans give rights?
It turns out The Troops were in no hurry to enable all adults to act on their right to vote.
US Military operations conducted in the 1940s, 50s & 60s didn’t get the job done.
It wasn’t until July of 1971 that 18 year old adults could take delivery on one of the freedoms we hear so much about.
Hey school teachers–
If veterans fought for our right to vote- how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
Men Died For the Right to Vote?
Congressman Derek Kilmer
Wars are for freedom and democracy.
Congressman Kilmer,
If wars are fought for democracy- how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?
Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?
With all this talk of freedom- would it be OK to grow a marijuana plant in the back yard?
Can I take my 20 year old girlfriend (a responsible adult) down to the bar to order up a few beers for freedom?
Should we check with the Joint Chiefs of Staff first?
Questioning undeclared/unwon wars that never end:
June 11, 2019
GI Suicide: Maybe It’s The Job?
by Lawrence Wilkerson
“The U.S. government has told these young men and women that they are killing these people for freedom’s sake, for democracy, for women’s rights, for justice, to protect Americans, and for all manner of reasons that these troops know are just so much hogwash.”
“Lawrence Wilkerson served 31 years in the U.S. Army, retiring as a colonel. He is the Distinguished Visiting Professor of Government and Public Policy at the College of William & Mary.”
Possibly of interest:
Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part
Military Town – Hometown Pride
Jet Noise Protects Your Right To Protest?
Armistice Day – Six Months Out
Armistice Day Is Now Free Chow Day
U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom
Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom
Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips
Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville
How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?
Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.
Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog
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