Local Shellfish Aren’t Celebrating

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

Article indicates the cost of the project is $142 million.

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

“…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

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?

The Haley-Trump Trial Balloon Is Pitiful

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories An eye on the health of local waters, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Oak Harbor, The Business of Keeping People informed

Will President Trump be a weaker candidate this time out?

June 25, 2019 //

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

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

Categories Veterans support all candidates 2012!, Voting

Port Angeles Border Patrol – Newspeople Remain Silent

June 24, 2019 //

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 something happens that can be bragged 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-

“… their main interaction with the boating public: Boarding boats and checking for ID, getting a “vibe,” as Jeff P. called it, for what’s up.”

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

News tip/story idea

Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

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

Categories Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Olympic Peninsula Border Patrol, The Business of Keeping People informed

Orca View

June 23, 2019 //

First time out to a new trail today at Fort Ebey.

A couple of eagles watched over the beach during our visit.

Categories Fort Ebey, Local Stuff, Whidbey Island

Let’s Honor The Troops In Honest Ways

June 23, 2019 //

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?

USO: “…82% of military families feel that the public doesn’t understand their sacrifices.”

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:

Jet Noise Protects Your Right To Protest?

Armistice Day – Six Months Out

U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom

Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville

US Navy on Whidbey Island

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

Categories Armistice Day, Hometown Pride, School teachers not asking questions

“…the dryer has been the last piece of the puzzle.”

June 22, 2019 //

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

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

Article indicates the cost of the project is $142 million.

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

“…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

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?

Report: Mexican drug cartels bringing pure meth to Northwest Arkansas

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories An eye on the health of local waters, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Oak Harbor, The Business of Keeping People informed

Local Sunset: 2115

June 21, 2019 //

Categories Driftwood Fetish, Whidbey Island

Hastie Lake

June 16, 2019 //

Categories Hastie Lake, Local Stuff, Penn Cove Watershed, Whidbey Island

6 Year Meth Investigation – Welcome Home Troops

June 16, 2019 //

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

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?

Please Dispose of Properly

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.

Categories Homeland Security is a scam, Just Be Honest, Meth, Newspeople not asking questions, The Business of Keeping People informed

Whidbey Scene

June 15, 2019 //

Categories Hastie Lake, Local Stuff, Penn Cove Watershed, Whidbey Island

Hastie Lake

June 14, 2019 //

Categories Hastie Lake, Local Stuff, Penn Cove Watershed, Whidbey Island

USO: “…82% of military families feel that the public doesn’t understand their sacrifices.”

June 14, 2019 //

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

Jet Noise Protects Your Right To Protest?

Armistice Day – Six Months Out

U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom

Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville

“If “Men died for your right to vote!”, how did we manage to elect politicians after the Fall of Saigon in 1975?”

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

Categories Armistice Day

Almost Summer – Whidbey Island

June 13, 2019 //

Categories Hastie Lake, Local Stuff, Penn Cove Watershed, Whidbey Island

Jet Noise Protects Your Right To Protest?

June 12, 2019 //

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.

June 7, 2019 South Whidbey Record

Letter: Citizens of Ebey’s Reserve are not doing right thing

“I agree with Mayor Hughes, so I will spare readers of what I think of factions of citizens booing those who put their lives and health on the line to train to protect our right to protest our government on their accustomed training grounds used by jets since 1967.”

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.”

Do the US Armed Forces function as some sort of giant civil rights organization?

Many veterans claim to have served to protect American rights & freedoms.

How does this work?

Black people were still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory.

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?

1967

Did the Dept. of Defense play any role in defending American rights and freedoms?

Was it the Viet Cong that set up laws in 16 US states to prohibit interracial marriage?

Hometown Pride

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?

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

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.

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.

Armistice Day – Six Months Out

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Possibly of interest:

U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom

Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

Lonely beach- just north of Perego’s Lagoon

Categories Armistice Day, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Veterans Day Propaganda

Chocolate Mint

June 11, 2019 //

Categories Plant-Based, Simple Living

“Shellfish are very sensitive to pollution levels…” – Puget Sound Update

June 11, 2019 //

Image at top of page:

Whidbey Island

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated June 11th, 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.”

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.

Suquamish

June 9, 2019 Kitsap Daily News

Suquamish Tribe hosts seafood bake for tideland owners

“Shellfish are very sensitive to pollution levels, so it took the sustained effort of the Tribe in collaboration with state and local governments, the U.S. Navy, and interested members of the public to significantly reduce sewage input into Puget Sound.”

Back on Whidbey Island

More than six months ago:

November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

Article indicates the cost of the project is $142 million.

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

“…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? Waiting for newspeople to let us know.

“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:

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

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?

“Gov. Kristi Noem has pushed for increased funding to combat South Dakota’s methamphetamine epidemic…”

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories An eye on the health of local waters, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Oak Harbor, The Business of Keeping People informed

No Prescription Required For Cartel Products Update

June 10, 2019 //

Jun 9, 2019 Aberdeen News

South Dakota sees fewer opioid prescriptions

“…drug overdose deaths are on the rise. Summerer said as opioids become increasingly harder to obtain, “more people turn to meth and other drugs to help relieve pain.”

Homeland Security Vote of Confidence:

In South Dakota, Marijuana is a Gateway Drug

Feb. 14, 2019 Argus Leader

Gov. Kristi Noem: Industrial hemp ‘opening the door’ to legalized marijuana in South Dakota

Gov. Kristi Noem:

“She said she’s heard from social workers, addiction treatment counselors and families hurt by addiction that marijuana is a gateway drug — and that industrial hemp will open the door to marijuana distribution in South Dakota.”

Why is South Dakota dealing with a methamphetamine epidemic if the gateway drug marijuana is not legal there?

Idaho Too

May 22nd 2019 CBS 2 News

Idaho remains hardline on hemp

“However in Idaho, state law continues to treat hemp the same as marijuana and any trace of THC in a substance is illegal.”

“But the bill to legalize hemp was introduced in the conservative legislature when many Idaho lawmakers grew increasingly concerned as surrounding states legalized both medicinal and recreational marijuana.”

“Idaho legislators who vowed never to legalize marijuana believed legalizing hemp would open the door for pot.”

Apr 11, 2019 Idaho State Journal

Senator: Marijuana is ‘the elephant in the room’ as lawmakers work to restrict initiatives process

“Although Idaho is surrounded by states that have legalized marijuana in some form, the Legislature in 2013 passed a resolution, sponsored by Sen. Chuck Winder, R-Boise, declaring the state should never legalize marijuana for any use.”

“It doesn’t reduce drug use — it increases drug use, and any place that they’ve had it, it goes from marijuana … to heroin problems and meth problems and all sorts of different things.”

April 06, 2019 Idaho Statesman

Idaho did its part; Congress now must react to fentanyl crisis in our nation

“It is almost never prescribed by doctors in this country, but our communities are now in danger of being flooded with fentanyl being manufactured in China and smuggled across our borders, especially with the help of Mexican drug cartels.”

May 21, 2019 Moscow-Pullman Daily News

Sheriff’s office seeks vehicles, drug dog

“Besst told the Daily News the drug dog would help combat the increased use of heroin and methamphetamine in the county.”

“Highway 95 is a huge corridor north and south for bringing drugs into our county, plus across the state.”

“Moscow Police Department Chief James Fry, who was in the audience Monday, said he is also requesting a drug dog from the Moscow City Council for his department.”

“He said there is a heroin epidemic in the region.”

Why are Idaho communities now in danger of being flooded with fentanyl if the gateway drug marijuana is not legal there?

Why is Idaho dealing with a heroin epidemic if the gateway drug marijuana is not legal there?

More here:

What Do Conservatives Believe In?

Industrial Hemp – Gateway Drug?

Welcome Home Troops – Drug Cartels Moving Product Into Ohio

Massing US Border Patrol agents at the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca fails to keep meth and heroin out of town:

Port Angeles CBP Staffing & Infrastructure – Newspeople Remain Silent

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

Welcome Visitors

Rent yourself a State Parks buoy at Fort Worden

Voted best consumer value in weekend recreation.

Categories Heroin, Homeland Security is a scam, Just Be Honest, Meth

Welcome Home Troops – Drug Cartels Moving Product Into Ohio

June 6, 2019 //

Jun 3, 2019 The Cleveland American

Ohio considering push to designate Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations

Homeland Security Vote of Confidence:

“The Mexican drug cartels don’t fly planes into buildings, but they aggressively ship poison into our communities…”

Federal agents swing into action after large quantities of heroin, cocaine and fentanyl move past federal agents manning a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security- then on into Northeast Ohio.

May 10, 2018 News 5 Cleveland

Mexican cartel moves into Northeast Ohio, three-year investigation sends 19 to federal prison

Wonder what was happening at border crossing inspections during the 3 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?

“The drugs were moved across the U.S.-Mexican border and transported in these cars outfitted with secret traps.”

Same tactic in Montana:

K9 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?

More here:

Montana – Homeland Security Meth Racket Rolls On

K-9 Screenings After Meth Moves Past $40.6 Billion US Dept. of Homeland Security

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:

How do cartels react to DHS social media postings?

“Thank you @CBP for 16 years for securing our borders and ports of entry!”

Has securing our borders and ports of entry resulted in any shortage of cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or meth anywhere in the US?

Homeland Security boondoggle at Port Angeles

No cross-border USBP arrest in more than 9 years.

Newspeople play along by not asking any questions:

Port Angeles CBP Staffing & Infrastructure – Newspeople Remain Silent

What role does local CBP staffing and infrastructure play in keeping heroin out of the Puget Sound area? (Not asking if they react after product arrives in local communities.)

Love to see newspeople schedule an interview with the US Dept. of Homeland Security & ask:

Are passports/enhanced/Real IDs effective in keeping cartel-sourced heroin and meth out of the US?

Standard driver’s licenses have not been accepted at the border since 2009.

Some will say that migrant surges on the southern border work to the advantage of cartels.

Love to see newspeople ask:

What does the US Dept. of Homeland Security do with the $40.6 billion they get every 12 months?

Any shortage of cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or meth anywhere in the U.S. prior to migrant surges?

Port Angeles WA, is a small town, heavily fortified with CPB staff. Massing US Border Patrol agents at the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca fails to keep heroin out of town.

Question for newspeople:

What role do 1,200-horsepower Border Patrol Interceptor boats play in keeping meth and heroin away from the Puget Sound area?

2011-

“… their main interaction with the boating public: Boarding boats and checking for ID, getting a “vibe,” as Jeff P. called it, for what’s up.”

2013-

Heroin epidemic gripping Port Angeles

2015-

Port Angeles residents fed up with heroin problem

2017-

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.

More here:

Talk Of Border Walls As Cartel Moves 180 Kilograms Of Meth From Mexico To Canada by Rail

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories Homeland Security is a scam, Meth, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Olympic Peninsula Border Patrol

Tuesday Rush Hour

June 4, 2019 //

Along for the afternoon: Classic Deep Cuts

Probably some of this going on too.

Categories Campfire, Simple Living

Shipwreck Shores – Zero Questions From Newspeople

June 2, 2019 //

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.

Image at top of page:

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated June 2nd, 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.”

In the news:

May 24, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Splash park name decided in contest

“The splash park will be named Shipwreck Shores.”

“The name was supposed to represent Oak Harbor heritage, city life or the environment.”

Stewardship is a priority:

Sign below posted at Flintstone Park educates the public on local waters.

Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area

More than six months back:

November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

Article indicates the cost of the project is $142 million.

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

“…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? Waiting for newspeople to let us know.

“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:

An eye on the health of local waters – Whidbey sewage treatment plant outfalls

Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?

“…we honor the memories of those who died protecting our freedom…”

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories An eye on the health of local waters, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Oak Harbor, The Business of Keeping People informed

A Good One

May 30, 2019 //

10 Weeks of Sunshine IPA

Scuttlebutt Brewing Company

Categories Beer Photo Fetish

Armistice Day – Six Months Out

May 27, 2019 //

In the news:

May 24, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Letter: Please put ‘Civility First’ Memorial Day weekend

May 24, 2019 WSFA 12 News

‘It’s not about picnics’: A war widow has a message for Americans on Memorial Day

“Now Rachel wants Americans to know that Memorial Day isn’t just a day off work, or a time to party with friends. It’s a solemn day to remember those who have given their lives for our freedom.”

“It’s not a day to have a picnic. It’s the day to remember those who have given their lives so we can have a picnic. I see the flags flying half mast and this is a way we show them we remember,” she says.

US foreign policy goals and objectives are mapped out at the very highest levels of government.

Ask yourself- is there someone at the table- in those high level planning sessions- who makes sure that military operations overseas include a mission to protect American rights and freedoms?

Does someone make sure the mission is to defend the constitution?

Is there anyone who verifies that the mission is to protect our physical security?

May 26, 2019, The Associated Press

Mike Pence: West Point grads should expect to see combat

“Vice President Mike Pence told the most diverse graduating class in the history of the U.S. Military Academy on Saturday that the world is “a dangerous place” and they should expect to see combat.”

“Some of you will join the fight against radical Islamic terrorists in Afghanistan and Iraq.”

Life wasn’t meant to change after the big Saddam Hussein & Osama bin Laden takedowns:

May 23, 2019 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Wisconsin National Guard soldiers return home from 10-month deployment in time for Memorial Day

The people of Wisconsin needed services in “…15 locations spread across Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Jordan, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.”

U.S. service members are now stationed in 170+ countries overseas.

Same country that will stage a big celebration of smaller/limited government on July 4th.

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?

January 7, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Boeing reaches out to help military members and their families

Do the folks who reach out to help military members and their families also advocate for phasing out undeclared/unwon wars that never end?

The Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars goes back to 1949.

“This Memorial Day, spare us the flyover jets, flag-wielding honor guards, and other patriotic mush of 21st-century popular culture. Instead, I’d submit that now—after 18 years of endless, ineffective war—it’s a time for nuance, for a collective national self-assessment.”

Danny Sjursen – A retired U.S. Army Major

“At professional sports events, the once-modest singing of the national anthem has been overshadowed by flyovers from fighter jets, field-sized flags and uniformed troops on parade. Airport loudspeakers blare expressions of gratitude for the troops, and flight attendants call attention to uniformed military members aboard planes.”

The best way America can honor its fallen soldiers is to create fewer of them

Danny Sjursen – A retired U.S. Army Major

May 25, 2019 KDKA-TV News – CBS Pittsburgh

Deals, Discounts And Freebies: Memorial Day Discounts For Veterans

May 24, 2019 USA Today

Free food and Memorial Day deals for active military and veterans Monday

We’re the very best at symbolism.

Possibly of interest:

U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom

Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville

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.

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

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?

Drug trafficker faces prison sentence

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- Big Driftwood at Fort Ebey

Categories Armistice Day, Federal Holidays, Just Be Honest, National Guard, Veterans Day Propaganda

Port Angeles CBP Staffing & Infrastructure – Newspeople Remain Silent

May 23, 2019 //

Newspeople aren’t showing up to ask questions.

We’ll ask a few of our own here. Our questions appear in bold type.

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 8 years, fraudulent overtime claims, 1,200-horsepower interceptor boats and zero questions from the press.

Local meth news stories here.

Local heroin news stories here.

May 23, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

“A man who law enforcement officials have called the primary illicit drug supplier on the North Olympic Peninsula pleaded guilty in federal court this week and faces up to 20 years in prison.”

“Orozco-Cruz, Elizabeth Ann McKean and Jessica Elen Christman were all arrested last year after a year-long Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team and Drug Enforcement Administration investigation into Orozco-Cruz’s drug trafficking organization, which officials believed was the primary supplier of Mexican-produced heroin and methamphetamine on the Olympic Peninsula.”

Wonder what was happening at border crossing inspections during the 12 months 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?

May 23, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Warrant roundup nets unexpected drugs, authorities say

“PORT ANGELES — At least 20 people were arrested Tuesday and Wednesday in an arrest-warrant roundup in the Port Angeles area, unexpectedly netting a woman law enforcement said had more than $67,000 worth of heroin and methamphetamine in her apartment.”

The primary illicit drug supplier on the North Olympic Peninsula was taken off the street last spring:

May 23, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Drug trafficker faces prison sentence

Looks like the major takedown involving the primary illicit drug supplier on the North Olympic Peninsula last year, did not result in any shortage of meth or heroin at Port Angeles?

Question for newspeople:

What role do 1,200-horsepower Border Patrol Interceptor boats play in keeping meth and heroin away from the Puget Sound area?

2011-

“… their main interaction with the boating public: Boarding boats and checking for ID, getting a “vibe,” as Jeff P. called it, for what’s up.”

2013-

Heroin epidemic gripping Port Angeles

2015-

Port Angeles residents fed up with heroin problem

2017-

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-

Love to see newspeople schedule an interview with the US Dept. of Homeland Security & ask:

Are passports/enhanced/Real IDs effective in keeping cartel-sourced heroin and meth out of the US?

Standard driver’s licenses have not been accepted at the border since 2009.

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 the US/Canada border?

Any arrests connected to a Homeland Security mission?

Are fraudulent overtime claims still the norm at Port Angeles?

Border Patrol whistleblower pays price for refusing overtime pay

If you run a government operation- these are the reporters you want to see on interview day:

More here:

Port Angeles CBP – Keeping Meth Out of Town?

Puget Sound Homeland Security Industrial Complex

Port Angeles Heroin – Newspeople Remain Silent

News tip/story idea

Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin

Does hometown pride get in the way of newspeople asking questions?

Please Dispose of Properly

Don’t miss our companion blog- found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo- A symbol of the free press, federal government credibility and newspeople asking questions.

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:

Categories Heroin, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Meth, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Olympic Peninsula Border Patrol, The Business of Keeping People informed

A view from the Fort Ebey Bluff Trail

May 23, 2019 //

Two Bluff Trails

Categories Fort Ebey, Local Stuff, Whidbey Island

Oak Harbor Waterfront

May 22, 2019 //

Categories Oak Harbor

Oak Harbor Waterfront Trail

May 22, 2019 //

Categories Oak Harbor, Whidbey Island

Oak Harbor Waterfront

May 21, 2019 //

Went out today to take a look.

Image above and below: Is this the sewage treatment plant outfall described by WDFW?

Love to see 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.

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.”

View current Washington State Dept. of Health status/shellfish safety map at the bottom of this page.

More than six months back:

November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times