<a href="https://oakbaystarfish.com/2019/09/18/newspapers-need-your-help/" rel="bookmark">Newspapers Need Your Help

Sewage plant recognized as project of the year

Zero questions from newspeople:

September 17, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Is it possible for an agency to nominate itself for this award?

Nomination form here.

Directions for submitting here.

Several Island County beaches are closed for recreational shellfish harvest because of sewage treatment outfall.

This appears to be a routine/ongoing situation.

View the Washington State Department of Health beach list here.

Zero questions from newspeople:

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.

Plenty of questions here:

Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree

JFK speaks about the role of the press in a free society:

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

Whidbey Island residents sue over expansion of Navy training flights

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

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

Image at top of page:

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Sept. 18th, 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.”

New sewage treatment plant has been up & running for more than 10 months.

As the months go by, we’ll watch and see how local conditions change. We’ll look for newspeople to ask public policy questions Re:

How long has Oak Harbor been an unsafe location for recreational shellfish harvesting?

If the state of the art sewage treatment plant went online more than 10 months ago- how was sewage being processed during the summer of 2018 or the year before?

When did the sewage treatment plant project begin?

If the old sewage treatment system was failing- when did it begin to fail?

Will the new sewage treatment plant allow for safe recreational shellfish harvesting at Oak Harbor? If not, why not?

How long will it take for recreational shellfish harvest conditions to become safe related to sewage treatment plant outfall?

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

Sound of Freedom

September 17, 2019 //

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

Sept. 16, 2019 Kitsap Sun

Navy on Whidbey is a Matter of National Security?

Just Be Honest

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

“The governor believes that it is important for students in our schools to remember the foundational principles our country was founded on.”

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, Just Be Honest, Veterans Day Propaganda

Just Be Honest

September 14, 2019 //

Foundational principles update:

Sep 13, 2019 Rapid City Journal

Local billboard challenges ‘In God We Trust’ legislation

“This is about our national motto. It points outs our Judeo-Christian heritage that protects our freedoms,” he said. “Our Founders were men of faith for the most part.”

Foundational principles such as: slavery, women & minorities treated as 2nd class citizens, slaughter of Native Americans, etc.

Ongoing militarization of American culture update:

September 12, 2019 Sentinel-Tribune

Flyovers are a reminder of our freedom

“As the athletes prepare for the game, and the marching bands as well, we must remember it is only because there are numerous men and women who are serving in the military, protecting our freedoms. We have freedom to attend the football game, or baseball, or a round of golf.”

“Keep in mind we are Americans, living in a very diverse and divided world. But we are fortunate to have the U.S military guarding us and protecting us. Think about that the next time you attend a football game, watch the flyover and thank those who are serving our nation.”

“Herb Dettmer is a retired Bowling Green resident, U.S. Army veteran and writes this column representing the viewpoint of “Joe Average” citizen.”

Herb,

The Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911. We haven’t won a war since.

Veterans are in the very best position to know that 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, sports betting, voting rights, bump stock ban, interracial marriage, gay marriage, tobacco sales, open container laws, 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.

Just Be Honest.

Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.

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?

If The Troops fight for your right to sit, stand, kneel, etc.- why were black people still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory?

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?

June 12, 1967

“…an interracial couple who had been sentenced to a year in jail for violating Virginia’s ban on marriage between people of different races.”

Celebrate your freedoms folks:

Gallipolis, Ohio

Still six weeks out and local authorities dictate a one hour window for trick-or-treat time 2019. For some reason, Halloween will be observed exactly one week in advance of October 31st.

Your family will start at 5:30 and be done for the year at 6:30 p.m.

“The Gallipolis Police Department recently announced times for Trick-or-Treat set for the Gallipolis.”

“The annual event will be from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 24. All drivers are reminded to be cautious and drive slowly throughout the community.”

More here:

Holidays and American Culture

Paid spokesperson/State-run media update:

Lt. Gen. Thomas S. James, Jr. tells us:

“We have never won a war without the Guard and the Reserve and we will never win one without it,” said Jones.

“A battle-ready National Guard and Reserve are crucial to the nation’s ability to fight and win wars, and the Army is working to keep those forces well-honed and ready to deploy with their active-duty counterparts…”

General James,

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

Did the advantage of a well-honed and ready to deploy National Guard and Reserve allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?

Possibly of interest:

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

Too Many Lies From Veterans – Straight Out of a Land of Make Believe

Border Patrol contingent shrinks on Peninsula

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-

North of Perego’s Lagoon – just off the Bluff Trail.

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, Veterans Day Propaganda

Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree

September 11, 2019 //

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?

Newspeople have a long history of not asking questions related to Port Angeles CBP.

In the news:

September 11, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

New OPNET agreement addresses civil liabilities

“The agreement is currently under consideration by the cities of Port Angeles, Port Townsend and Sequim, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Clallam County, the State Patrol, U.S. Border Patrol, National Park Service, and Customs and Border Protection Office of Air and Marine, and Homeland Security Investigation.”

June 23, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

“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.”

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA

Questions newspeople will not ask:

Are fraudulent overtime claims still the norm at Port Angeles?

Border Patrol whistleblower pays price for refusing overtime pay

Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound meth or heroin?

Even one time?

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?

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

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?

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?

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

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.

Cross-Border Maritime Traffic – Newspeople Remain Silent

Port Angeles Border Patrol – Newspeople Remain Silent

Homeland Security Meth/Heroin Racket Rolls On

Press Plays The Role of Armed Forces & Homeland Security Public Affairs Staff

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

Cross-Border Maritime Traffic – Newspeople Remain Silent

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.

Categories Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Meth, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Olympic Peninsula Border Patrol, Post 911 Homeland Security Spending Spree, The Business of Keeping People informed

Homeland Security Meth/Heroin Racket Rolls On

September 10, 2019 //

Global traffickers move product into Minnesota:

September 4, 2019 Star Tribune

DEA expands to Duluth as meth, heroin, opioids ravage region

“Last year, a Star Tribune report showed how cartels have flooded the state with a drug that’s cheaper and purer than ever before.”

“A new wave of methamphetamine has saturated the state, much of the product now being imported from Mexican cartels.”

Puget Sound Area:

Patrol boats fail to keep bad guys from moving product into Bremerton and Port Angeles.

Newspeople play along by not asking any questions.

More here:

Montana – Homeland Security Meth Racket Rolls On

Press Plays The Role of Armed Forces & Homeland Security Public Affairs Staff

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:

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

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

Photo- Slow speed mayhem

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

9 Months In – Stewardship Is A Priority?

August 15, 2019 //

Background:

Image above:

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated August 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.”

Nine months back

Plant up & running the day prior to this article:

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.

Several Island County beaches are closed for recreational shellfish harvest because of sewage treatment outfall.

This appears to be a routine/ongoing situation.

View the Washington State Department of Health beach list here.

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.

8 Months In – Cheerful Social Media Posts With Plenty of Exclamation Points

More here:

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

“The moment we hit 7.5 Gs in the Blue Angel’s Jet & I passed out!”

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

Press Plays The Role of Armed Forces & Homeland Security Public Affairs Staff

August 6, 2019 //

Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.

Recent Seattle Blue Angels Air Show event:

KIRO 7

My take:

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

Not complaining about jet noise, not trying to put a stop to the air show. Not trying to get the Navy to leave Whidbey Island.

I get the fun aspect of newspeople posting on social media. It would be nice to see more of a balance with newspeople asking a few questions. This is entirely common in sports culture where reporters are free to ask hard questions and write stories about teams, players, managers and coaches. After each game, the press has access to coaches and players. All sorts of information is available all of the time.

If the US Armed Forces were an NFL team, newspeople might ask:

Did the advantage of US air power allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?

The press and the American people have a much more honest relationship with sports teams than they do with the Dept. of Defense.

If The Troops were an NFL team, sports talk radio would feature comments like:

DOD was nowhere to be found on 911. We haven’t won a war since.

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

The people of Louisiana need services in Iraq.

State-run media update:

Aug 1, 2019 Defense Visual Information Distribution Service

Plaquemine National Guard unit deploys to Iraq

Defending this nation in Iraq:

“…you chose to be one of the ones that stepped forward, raised your right hand and swore to defend this nation.”

The people of Illinois need services in Afghanistan.

JUL 27, 2019 Chicago Tribune

Family and friends hug area National Guard soldiers deploying to Afghanistan, some for the first time: ‘I am praying for the best’

Any members of the press available to show up and ask why the people of Hometown, USA need services in Iraq and Afghanistan absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war?

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

Sports Culture Tends to be Open and Honest

Navy on Whidbey is a Matter of National Security?

The US Dept. of Homeland Security

Are newspeople forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security funding and performance?

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA

Are fraudulent overtime claims still the norm at Port Angeles?

Border Patrol whistleblower pays price for refusing overtime pay

Has Port Angeles CBP been able to intercept any inbound meth or heroin?

Even one time?

Newspeople remain silent:

Cross-Border Maritime Traffic – Newspeople Remain Silent

Port Angeles Border Patrol – Newspeople Remain Silent

Every 12 months, the US Department of Homeland Security gets another $40 billion in taxpayer funds.

Any shortage of cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or meth anywhere in the US since the big El Chapo takedown?

If the excuse now, is that migrant surges are diverting attention away from cartel traffic- remember that heroin was a problem in US communities prior to the recent migrant surges. Heroin is still here and now meth has taken hold.

August 2, 2019 KFOR-TV

Officials seeing increase in meth being brought into Oklahoma

“Since 2014, meth is the leading cause of drug deaths in the state of Oklahoma…”

January 31, 2019 WLS-TV

Meth deaths skyrocket as new drug cartel fueled threat hits Chicago area streets

“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?

How do cartels react to DHS social media postings?

No CBP inspection of rail shipments entering the US?

February 27, 2019 CTV News

Police find meth smuggled into Canada through new Ford cars built in Mexico

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:

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

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

Whidbey sewage treatment outfall. Zero questions from the press:

Plaquemine National Guard unit deploys to Iraq

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- On watch over Fort Ebey

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

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

August 3, 2019 //

Same country that celebrated independence from a powerful central government on July 4th.

The people of Louisiana need services in Iraq.

State-run media update:

Aug 1, 2019 Defense Visual Information Distribution Service

Defending this nation in Iraq:

“…you chose to be one of the ones that stepped forward, raised your right hand and swore to defend this nation.”

Any members of the free press available to show up and ask why the people of Louisiana need services in Iraq, absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war?

They did show up. As always, no questions were asked:

Jul 31, 2019 KALB

Louisiana-based National Guard unit to deploy to Iraq

Illinois Army National Guard off to Afghanistan to support Operation Freedom’s Sentinel:

JUL 27, 2019 Chicago Tribune

Family and friends hug area National Guard soldiers deploying to Afghanistan, some for the first time: ‘I am praying for the best’

“Most of these guys probably didn’t think they would get deployed. It’s a good career progression and opportunity for them.”

The open attitude on sports reporting from various news sources does not cross over to stories about the US Dept. of Homeland Security, big drug busts, The Troops, the War on Terror or Island County water quality impacted by sewage treatment plant outfalls.

If The Troops were an NFL team, sports talk radio would feature comments like:

DOD was nowhere to be found on 911. We haven’t won a war since.

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

Sports can be discussed in honest ways in mainstream media.

The Troops:

Richard T. Gromlich, retired rear admiral with the Coast Guard: “Today, our military members around the world continue to put service before self. They proudly serve to ensure the freedoms we enjoy today. I couldn’t be more proud of the men and women who serve today. They are the best of best.”

Possibly of interest:

Navy on Whidbey is a Matter of National Security?

Jet Noise Protects Your Right To Protest?

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

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

Navy on Whidbey Island is a matter of ‘national security’

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-

A symbol of freedom, federal government credibility, school teachers and newspeople not asking questions and voting to support the political parties and personalities who take turns in power.

Categories Armistice Day, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Veterans Day Propaganda

Navy on Whidbey is a Matter of National Security?

August 1, 2019 //

July 30, 2019 The Seattle Times

My take:

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

I am indifferent to jet noise on Whidbey Island. Not complaining, not trying to get the Navy to leave.

“…vital to our national security.”

Did the advantage of US air power allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?

The Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911.

We haven’t won a war since.

Even if NAS Whidbey was shut down, training would continue at other locations. MCAS El Toro is one example of bases that have been closed over the years. Training goes on.

Sound of Freedom

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.

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.

More here:

Jet Noise Protects Your Right To Protest?

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

“if it wasn’t for our military you’d be writing your comment in Japanese. Assuming we still had newspapers…”

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 Casey

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, Veterans Day Propaganda

If it wasn’t for our military you’d be writing your comment in Japanese.

July 26, 2019 //

July 25, 2019 The Seattle Times

Repair Navy’s rift with Whidbey Island

From comments:

Anacortes honors veterans in annual celebration:

“…if you can read English, you might consider thanking a veteran, for you do not salute the ancestry of the Third Reich…”

The free and well armed people who populate the North American continent could be forced to speak a language not of their choosing? Some invading force wearing military uniforms could dictate events without facing resistance?

Doubt it.

Please see Operation Sea Lion.

US Armed Forces:

The world’s most modern & powerful military force has had their hands full for years now in Afghanistan.

We’ve got such a good handle on the situation- National Guard units are doing multiple tours in distant lands– absent any military emergency, draft, or declaration of war.

Did the advantage of US Armed Forces allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?

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:

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

National Guard in Afghanistan

Too Many Lies From Veterans – Straight Out of a Land of Make Believe

Please Dispose of Properly

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-

A symbol of veterans and school teachers telling lies about freedom.

Categories Just Be Honest, Veterans Day Propaganda

Jobs Programs For Your Freedoms Update:

July 25, 2019 //

The big July 4th celebration of smaller/limited government is all over now folks.

July 16, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Letter: AG’s lawsuit against Navy is a political spectacle

“We cannot imagine a more worthy cause than supporting the mission of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, the largest employer within three counties. NAS Whidbey Island provides over 9,000 military and civilian jobs with a total economic activity generated in this area equalling nearly $1.04 billion. Jets truly do equal jobs.”

Christine Cribb Executive Director Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce.

If small towns across America had military jobs programs- would they question undeclared/unwon wars that never end?

Paid spokesperson update:

July 23, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Soundoff: U.S. Navy takes environmental stewardship seriously

“First and foremost, EA-18G Growler aircraft, and the aircrews who fly them, are a crucial component of our national defense. Navy Growlers provide Airborne Electronic Attack capabilities for all of our armed forces, and without the Growler’s ability to suppress enemy uses of electromagnetic energy, American troops in the air, at sea and on the ground are at risk.”

These are the guys who believe the war in Afghanistan is some sort of success.

July 19, 2019 The American Conservative

The Decline of Our Nation’s Generals

“Milley’s understanding of war did come up, if only obliquely, when Afghanistan received passing mention. Milley described that war, the longest in U.S. history and still ongoing, as “successful to date.” U.S. efforts to transform Afghanistan into a stable and functioning state have manifestly failed. So too have U.S. efforts to defeat the militants threatening the Afghan government. But for Milley, all that matters is the absence of any post-9/11 terrorist attacks launched from Afghan soil. Based on that narrow and contrived criterion, he puts Afghanistan in the win column.”

Back on Whidbey Island:

Did the advantage of air power allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?

The Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911. We haven’t won a war since.

July 21, 2019 The Herald

Commentary: Bob Ferguson’s war a threat to Whidbey’s Navy base

State Sen. Barbara Bailey, R-Oak Harbor, represents the 10th Legislative District.

“But it’s very unusual for an elected official to attack one of the largest employers in their state when the thousands of people who depend on that employer are veterans he has claimed to support. This short-sighted approach is what Ferguson is doing through his lawsuit against the United States Navy on Whidbey Island.”

“Our state is key to national defense. We have multiple military installations located around Washington, resulting in more than a $30 billion economic impact. Each one of us is affected in some way. NAS Whidbey alone accounts for nearly 90 percent of economic activity on the island and almost 70 percent of the county employment.”

The cash required to bring in these jobs and economic activity comes out of the pockets of taxpayers. It’s not based on any sort of honest demand for these services.

“What’s next? Shutting down Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Fairchild Air Force Base, Naval Station Everett, or any of the other bases in our state? Not only would this cripple our state economically, it would undermine our national security, putting us all at greater risk from enemy attack and greatly reducing our ability to respond to threats.”

I am indifferent to jet noise on Whidbey Island.

Most people are probably not asking for the Navy to leave. Concerns seem to be about adding more flights and jets.

Even if NAS Whidbey was shut down, training would continue at other locations. MCAS El Toro is one example of many bases that have been closed over the years. Training goes on.

More here:

July 19, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

State Sen. Barbara Bailey

Sound Off: ‘Litigator-in-chief’s’ lawsuit hurts economy, defense

I moved here 29 years ago and built a life in the shadow and earshot of the Intruders, Prowlers and Growlers that made and continue to make their presence known by what I like to call “the sound of freedom.”

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.

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.

More here:

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

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

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

Goodbye Armistice Day

JULY 24, 2019 ConnectingVets

Vets to get their own parking spaces in West Miami City

The spaces will be designated by signs that read “Veterans Only Parking” and contain the seals of the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Navy.

More here:

Group identities, head of the line privileges, dividing people into groups of first & second-class citizens away from military bases, civilian-military divide, etc.

The Best Parking Spots

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?

Inslee brings presidential campaign and environmental message to Whidbey

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

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

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, Veterans Day Propaganda

Orca, Salmon & Whidbey Sewer Outfalls

July 24, 2019 //

In the news:

Bainbridge Review July 20, 2019

“…local efforts to educate people on the giant sea creatures and restore habitat for the fish that are vital to the Southern Residents orca’s diet.”

“The sign marking the Whale Trail spot had just been installed about a week prior to the governor’s visit…”

Seattle Times July 19, 2019

3 million gallons of untreated sewage spill into Puget Sound, state officials investigating

Several Island County beaches are closed for recreational shellfish harvest because of sewage treatment outfall.

This appears to be a routine/ongoing situation.

Love to see updated reporting on this from newspeople anywhere in the Puget Sound area.

View the Washington State Department of Health list here.

Image at top of page:

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated July 24, 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

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?

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.

Background:

8 Months In – Cheerful Social Media Posts With Plenty of Exclamation Points

More here:

Oak Harbor Splash Park – Water Quality & Conservation

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

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

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?

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

8 Months In – Cheerful Social Media Posts With Plenty of Exclamation Points

July 15, 2019 //

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

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.

Several Island County beaches are closed for recreational shellfish harvest because of sewage treatment outfall.

View the Washington State Department of Health list here.

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.

Background:

Oak Harbor Splash Park – Water Quality & Conservation

More here:

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

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

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?

Border Patrol contingent shrinks on Peninsula

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

Cross-Border Maritime Traffic – Newspeople Remain Silent

July 7, 2019 //

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

“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

Possibly of interest-

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

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?

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

Oak Harbor Splash Park – Water Quality & Conservation

June 30, 2019 //

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

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?

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:

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

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

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?

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee struggles to get speaking time in first Democratic presidential primary debate

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

TV Helps You To Think

June 27, 2019 //

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.”

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

Categories Armistice Day, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, The Business of Keeping People informed

Local Shellfish Aren’t Celebrating

June 26, 2019 //

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

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.

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:

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

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

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?

Border Patrol contingent shrinks on Peninsula

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

Port Angeles Border Patrol – Newspeople Remain Silent

June 24, 2019 //

June 23, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

“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.”

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-

“… 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-

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

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?

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

“…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

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

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

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

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?

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

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?

Military Town – Hometown Pride

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?

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.

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

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

Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom

Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips

The Best Parking Spots

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

“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:

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

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.

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

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

Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom

Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips

The Best Parking Spots

Military Town – Hometown Pride

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:

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

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? (Update: 9/18/19 comment posted at bottom of page with an explanation of what is captured in these two images.)

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

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.

Stewardship is a priority:

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

Oak Harbor asks Navy to pay $39 million to connect to city sewer system

Image below:

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated May 19th, 2019.

Source: Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife OAK HARBOR BEACH PARK

In the news:

May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Article indicates the cost of the project is $149 million.

Several Island County beaches are closed for recreational shellfish harvest because of sewage treatment outfall.

This appears to be a routine/ongoing situation.

View the Washington State Department of Health beach list here.

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?

Back in 2017, Island County Public Health posted a sign at the Coupeville Wharf about restrictions on recreational shellfish harvesting. I saw no warning signs today (5/21/19) at Oak Harbor or at Monroe Landing.

Image below taken on March 24, 2019 Penn Cove site visit.

WDFW has posted a permanent sign indicating a dark shaded area in the eastern part of Penn Cove:

More here:

8 Months In – Cheerful Social Media Posts With Plenty of Exclamation Points

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?

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, At the Beach, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Oak Harbor, The Business of Keeping People informed

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

May 19, 2019 //

Looks like Whidbey sewage treatment plant outfalls are impacting local waters.

What we can expect as time goes on?

Love to see 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.

Oak Harbor

Image at top of page:

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated May 19th, 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.”

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.

In the news:

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

“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:

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?

Oak Harbor asks Navy to pay $39 million to connect to city sewer system

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

Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople

May 9, 2019 //

Coupeville

Love to see newspeople get out and ask questions about why:

“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?

Oak Harbor

New sewage treatment plant in operation since Nov 15th, 2018.

“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”

Source: WDFW

In the news:

May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Article indicates the cost of the project is $149 million.

More here:

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

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

Hands on hearts: Loyalty Day Parade celebrates patriotism in Brinnon

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 Dec 2nd, 2018.

We’re not seeing any signs of improvement over the past 5 months.

Source: Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife OAK HARBOR BEACH PARK

Updated recreational shellfish safety map at bottom of page.

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

Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom

May 1, 2019 //

April 28, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

“Ernie Muir, a lifetime member of the Brinnon VFW Post who served in the Army in Vietnam in 1967-68, said the event is mostly for the kids.”

“It’s good for the kids to get to know some of the local veterans they see around,” Hough said. “It gives them a little understanding of freedom.”

Pledge of Allegiance

Making small children recite a loyalty oath indicating Liberty and Justice for all.

When they get a little older, they will see that they are pledging allegiance to a system where adults are divided into groups of first and second-class citizens.

Alcohol, marijuana, tobacco and firearms restrictions are in place for 18-20 year old adults. Is there any state where recreational marijuana laws remove prohibition for adults at age 18?

Are veteran’s organizations working to restore these freedoms?

Will the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to take a stand against dividing adults up into groups of first and second-class citizens?

As always, newspeople play along by not asking any questions. No need to disrupt a celebration and parade during the school day. Maybe ask questions after school is out for the year. Just make time to ask, so the kids can have a better understanding of how overseas military operations will relate to their freedoms.

Not picking on Brinnon. The idea that overseas military operations or military jet training over Coupeville are linked to American rights and freedoms is commonly promoted in American culture.

A little understanding of freedom?

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?

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

If The Troops fight for American rights and freedoms- why were black people still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory?

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.

Are the folks promoting loyalty OK with undeclared/unwon wars that never end?

More here:

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

Role Models & Lies About Freedom

A Land of Make Believe

Hero?

Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville