Archives for category: The Business of Keeping People informed

The issue is not limited to any single platform, public personality or media outlet.

The general trend has been to suppress voices of dissent and provide news coverage that favors government agencies, departments and policies.

Love to see the press get out and interview people on various sides of any issue.

I want to know what various people are thinking on various issues.

 

Jan 3, 2022 KOMO News

Joe Rogan encourages move to new social media app after Twitter bans GOP lawmaker

Several comments here.

KOMO and some of the commenters make it more about personalities and less about what people think of ongoing information suppression.

Not too many years ago, American society was much less about information suppression.

Social media is big on it now.

Today, newspeople show a lack of initiative and curiosity in asking questions.

 

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

Today, TV newspeople tend to report only one side of the story.

Much of what we get today is sort of a press release style of news reporting where a statement is prepared by whatever agency was involved in the latest policy update, drug bust/federal grant money award, etc.

Newspeople post this statement as is.

A 5th grade book report would require more in the way of asking questions.

Local papers have stripped away all comments from past articles, and removed the opportunity to post comments to new articles.

Various newspapers in the Puget Sound area have gone with this trend.

I’d be more interested in paying (again) for a local paper subscription if there was more in the way of newspeople asking questions.

Elimination of reader comments works against the idea of paying for an online subscription.

Manage it, don’t ban it. Online comment sections

No hate speech, insults, threats, foul language, attacking other commenters, etc. These are rules that make sense.

Eliminating the opportunity for all to follow some basic rules and comment is information suppression.

There’s always something to learn or think about from the points others make in the comment section.

Over the years, I’ve seen some really good points brought up in the comments section. Manage it, don’t ban it.

 

Puget Sound area newspeople play along by not asking questions.

Port Angeles

Local people find drugs and report to local (not federal) law enforcement authorities. Federal employees create news story and say that federal agents used a K-9 to “seize” the drugs.

Question for CBP:

Why does the news story created by CBP not line up with local reports?

Mainstream newspeople remain silent.

News links and Sheriff’s Dept. Facebook post here:

Port Angeles Border Patrol – Investigation Stalled For 3 Weeks?

Original blog post:

Port Angeles Border Patrol Agents Seize Meth?

 

When is the last time all of Penn Cove was safe for recreational shellfish harvest?

Living on an Island near Puget Sound, there seems to be great concern for salmon, orca, eagles, recreational shellfish and clean water.

Has anyone ever seen the Puget Sound area press ask questions about Whidbey water quality impacted by sewage treatment plant outfalls?

Has anyone ever seen any government agency, elected official or volunteer organization seeking answers related to one or more sewage treatment plants sending unsafe product into the waters near Whidbey Island?

Coupeville

“Clams, mussels and oysters CLOSED year-round.”

“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

“Clams, mussels and oysters CLOSED year-round.”

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

Source: WDFW

 

Oak Harbor

Oak Harbor City Park

“Clams, mussels and oysters CLOSED year-round.”

“Washington Department of Health (DOH) cautions that clams, oysters, and mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time.”

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

Source: WDFW

Daily status reports here:

Washington State Department of Health Shellfish Safety Map

 

A photo tour of Penn Cove here:

Wastewater Treatment Plant – Department of Ecology Award For Outstanding Performance

 

Distance learning idea:

Podcast 4 Another Month With An R – Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfalls

Whidbey Waters – Mixed Signals of Concern

 

Related:

Manage it, don’t ban it. Online comment sections

4 Stories The Puget Sound Press Will Not Question Or Report On

JFK – Voices of dissent and misinformation

Sports Writers and Alternative Media – Still Free To Ask Questions

Independent Press Needs Federal Cash?

 

A few public policy questions newspeople will not ask:

Was It A Fake War On Terror?

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

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A symbol of information suppression and newspeople who show a lack of initiative and curiosity in asking questions.

 

Several examples:

March 5, 2020 KCPQ

Body found inside SUV after fire, explosion in Woodinville

Sounds pretty serious. Mob hit? Cartel job?

Any follow up of any kind from newspeople anywhere?

Please post in comments if you have updated info.

 

Gunfire on the ferry:

January 27, 2020 Kitsap News Group

Man arrested after allegedly firing gun from ferry

“…WSP Vessel and Terminal Security Troopers responded to the MV Kaleetan upon its arrival at Colman Dock. By that time, WSF crews had already secured the suspect, who had boarded the vessel by vehicle.”

WSF Bremerton to Seattle crossing time: ~ 60 min

Not my idea to promote the concept that riding safely on the ferry requires gun boat escorts, SWAT teams and K-9s on the job to detect explosives.

If a guy decides to fire a gun during a 60 minute ferry crossing and WSP waits to respond until the ferry arrives at Colman Dock, how is this security?

Will newspeople follow up and let us know if the guy who purposefully fired his handgun from the ferry had a concealed carry permit?

Did he pass any sort of background check?

Whatever happened to this guy?

A 5th grade book report would require more in the way of asking questions.

 

Puget Sound area shootings roll on.

WA voters approved enhanced background checks back in 2014:

November 4, 2014 Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Washington voters choose gun control; huge majority in Seattle area

 

Washington Universal Background Checks for Gun Purchases, Initiative 594 (2014)

“Furthermore, the initiative rendered it illegal to hand off a firearm to people outside a person’s immediate family, though exceptions were mentioned, including situations in which people are at a shooting range or hunting.”

 

Looks like frequent gun crimes are still with us.

Enhanced background checks approved back in 2014 have had time to take hold.

Any reporting or updates on this?

Your 5th grade teacher just rejected your book report. Try again.

No Word on Enhanced Background Checks – No Comments Allowed

 

March 13, 2020 Whidbey News-Times

4th grade students publish book on Salish Sea

“Invisible Pollution in the Salish Sea”

School teachers,

Are you teaching your students to look for green colors on the Recreational Shellfish Safety Map?

More here:

Green colors show safe places for recreational shellfish

 

Another month with an R status update:

Went out on 3/18/2020 to check on Monroe Landing.

Sewage drain pipe sign is still posted:

More here:

Monroe Landing – Site Visit

 

Out on 3/18/2020 to check on the sewage drain pipe sign at Captain Thomas Coupe Park. I found that the sign is still posted.

More here:

Site Visit – Captain Thomas Coupe Park

 

One or more sewage treatment plants are sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

Coupeville

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

Is the sewage treatment plant sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

Reporting on this topic appears to be completely off limits to the press.

I’d be more interested in paying (again) for a local paper subscription if there was more in the way of investigative reporting & newspeople asking questions.

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

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Nordland Transit Center

 

Virginia update:

Dec 13, 2019 Star-Tribune

Agencies meet in Danville to discuss opioid crisis

“The Danville Police Department recognized the need to initiate a comprehensive opioid response plan in response to the spike in heroin and fentanyl-related overdoses the city experienced in late October.”

Maybe the article could educate more on heroin and fentanyl and lose the imprecise term opioid.

Opioid lawsuits won’t work on illegal product moved from outside the US into local communities.

Does the word opioid seem more safe and comfortable because the good guys can control what goes on over at the small town drugstore?

Do Americans hesitate to ask questions about a US Dept. of Homeland Security that gets another $40.6 billion every 12 months?

Newspeople remain silent.

 

Homeland Security Vote of Confidence:

Richmond Times-Dispatch Nov 16, 2019

High volume of methamphetamine coming from Mexico is fueling surge in meth use in Va. and elsewhere

Methamphetamine abuse is rising in Virginia, where fatal overdoses from the illicit drug shot up from 88 to 127 deaths, or 44%, from 2017 to 2018.”

“There are a number of reasons for the surge in meth use, she said. In part, it is because users are growing concerned about the dangers of opioids and are looking for something else.”

“A primary driver of the meth problem are traffickers from Mexico bringing it into the country in huge quantities, and they are expanding the labs in Mexico where it is made, she said.”

“The meth from Mexico is cheap and of high quality.”

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:

Puget Sound area update:

Let’s get away from the politician talk.

Heroin crisis: A situation involving illegal product moved from outside the US into local communities. The US Dept. of Homeland Security has jurisdiction at the border, border crossings & ports of entry.

With a budget of $40.6 billion-how is the US Dept. of Homeland Security doing at keeping heroin away from local communities?

Opioid crisis: Term favored by the press & politicians to describe the abuse of product which may be stolen from Grandma’s medicine cabinet-also a very serious issue.

Accurate reporting allows people to learn how to prevent future incidents.

Anytime there is a plane crash-a thorough investigation takes place. Lessons learned are used to prevent future accidents.

Was the aircraft fueled with opioids before it crashed? Was it running on heroin?

Recovery, rehab, treatment, & addiction are important parts of this story.

What part of the story is missing?

Has anyone ever seen the press question the US Dept. of Homeland Security/CBP on their role in keeping heroin and meth from arriving in the Puget Sound area?

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA

An upgrade in staff requiring a new, $11.9 million, 50 agent facility. Secret arrest statistics, denied FOIA requests, heroin and meth in the community, no cross-border USBP arrest in more than 9 years, fraudulent overtime claims, 1,200-horsepower interceptor boats and zero questions from the press.

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?

Related:

Lack of News Reporting Hurts Newspaper Subscriptions?

Lazy Newspeople and the Opioid Crisis

Drowning in Meth

Zero questions from newspeople:

Local meth news stories here.

Local heroin news stories here.

Plenty of questions here:

Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree

More here:

Port Angeles Drug War Covered By Press Release

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

Homeland Security Meth/Heroin Racket Rolls On

 

 

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

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

 

 

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Welcome Visitors

Rent yourself a State Parks buoy at Fort Worden

Voted best consumer value in weekend recreation.

 

People might be able to do a better job of voting if newspeople were more in the habit of asking questions.

Basic public policy questions seem to go unasked:

Much Talk of Freedom

 

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?

Is local CBP staffing and infrastructure at all relevant in keeping heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or meth from entering the Puget Sound area?

Newspeople remain silent:

Drowning in Meth

 

Independent/alternative media.

Out asking questions:

November 4, 2019 ClutchPoints

Jets coach Adam Gase is not worried about his job security

Why doesn’t this style of reporting cross over to stories about the US Dept. of Homeland Security, big drug busts, or the Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars?

Any War on Terror Generals getting fired for failed efforts?

Any Homeland Security people getting fired for failing to keep bad guys from moving meth & heroin into the Puget Sound area?

Do public schools still teach Armistice Day lessons?

Any newspeople asking questions?

 

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

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

 

 

 

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About this time of year – Fort Ebey

 

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?

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA

An upgrade in staff requiring a new, $11.9 million, 50 agent facility. Secret arrest statistics, denied FOIA requests, heroin and meth in the community, no cross-border USBP arrest in more than 9 years, fraudulent overtime claims, 1,200-horsepower interceptor boats and zero questions from the press.

Possibly of interest-

Newspeople play the role of federal public affairs personnel during Operation Macho Swagger– a ride-along to let us know what is being done to keep the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca safe from B.C. incursions: Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin

Love to see more in the way of newspeople out asking questions. Get away from posting the press release handed down from whatever agency was involved in the latest bust.

Zero questions from newspeople:

Local meth news stories here.

Local heroin news stories here.

Plenty of questions here:

Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree

 

Why are Border Patrol arrest statistics secret at Port Angeles?

March 19, 2014 Sequim Gazette

Agent counters allegations of ‘boredom’

“In March, Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Richard Sinks declined to release statistics on apprehensions or detainments made by the Port Angeles station.”

“Disclosure of the arrest statistics from the Port Angeles station would provide those interested in crossing our borders illegally with information that could aid their strategic targeting of potentially vulnerable areas along the border,” he said in an e-mail. “To maintain operational security these numbers will not be provided.”

Go and ask the FBI for Chicago bank robbery statistics. You’ll get the numbers. They won’t tell you that statistics/public records must be withheld because stats would assist bank robbers if they were shared with the public.

What other law enforcement agencies, anywhere in the US maintain secret arrest statistics?

Washington State Patrol shares DUI arrest statistics on social media here:

“Our #WSP District 8 troopers removed 1,429 impaired drivers from the roads in 2018.”

“Here is a breakdown of what it looks like in each of our 7 counties.”

Elsewhere, when CBP has something to brag about- the public is promptly notified:

Border Patrol K-9 Sniffs out Cocaine Hidden in Dashboard

Border Patrol Stops Drug Smuggler on I-8

Border Patrol Agent’s Public Safety Check Turns into Heroin Bust

 

The large drug bust story is always reported as a big success. This, after drug traffickers are somehow able to move product past National Guard Troops, strict post 911 security protocols and federal agents manning a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security- before product arrives in Hometown, USA.

October 23, 2019, Q13 News video:

‘The Pacific Northwest is drowning in methamphetamine:’ 17 arrested in major drug trafficking operation

Drowning in methamphetamine?

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:

 

The drug war is especially fascinating because preventing bad people from coming here to do bad things became a bigger priority after 911.

We’re told that we are in a life and death struggle in the War on Terror. Bad people will come here to destroy our American way of life if we don’t send The Troops to fight in places like Iraq and Afghanistan. Since 2009, we need a special ID to go have lunch in Canada and then return home.

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

If the drug war 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.

 

US Troops at the border, El Chapo takedown, opioid lawsuits, REAL ID, Homeland Security grant money, CBP social media posts, strict post 911 security protocols and a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security fail to keep bad guys from moving 50 pounds of methamphetamine into Oak Harbor:

October 25, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Feds bust alleged meth smugglers in Oak Harbor

“The federal task force behind the high-level narcotics trafficking investigation is known as BEST, which is short for Border Enforcement Security Task Force.”

Border Enforcement Security Task Force?

Question for newspeople:

Is the local meth situation linked in any way with the US/Canada border?

“It is comprised of law enforcement from Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Customs and Border Protection Air Marine Operations, Border Patrol, Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.”

Question for newspeople:

Has local Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations been able to intercept any meth headed to Whidbey Island, or do they react after product arrives in local communities?

Is local CBP staffing and infrastructure at all relevant in keeping heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or meth from entering the Olympic Peninsula, or the Puget Sound area?

 

Island County Homeland Security-funded patrol boat

Back in 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.”

Questions for newspeople:

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?

 

Real ID

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.

 

Lessons Learned?

Anytime there is a plane crash, or an industrial accident, a thorough investigation takes place. Lessons learned are used to prevent future accidents. Any similar effort after a big drug bust?

Preventing drugs from entering local communities would kill the chance for various agencies to get publicity for the occasional big drug bust happening in those communities:

Whidbey Island

City, county, tribal and federal law enforcement took part in a drug bust in Oak Harbor Wednesday that resulted in the seizure of 50 pounds of methamphetamine and the arrest of two men, according to a press release from Oak Harbor Police Chief Kevin Dresker.”

“The federal task force behind the high-level narcotics trafficking investigation is known as BEST, which is short for Border Enforcement Security Task Force. It is comprised of law enforcement from Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Customs and Border Protection Air Marine Operations, Border Patrol, Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.”

Seattle area

“Federal, state and local law enforcement fanned-out throughout the Puget Sound region Wednesday, arresting 17 people – two from Auburn, another from Pacific – in connection with multiple counts of drug trafficking, U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran said.”

“In the last year, DEA working with other federal, state and local law enforcement, have seized 3,400 pounds of methamphetamine, representing a record amount for the region.”

“The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Tacoma Resident Office, the Tahoma Narcotics Enforcement Team (TNET) and the Burien Police Department (BPD) Street Team. TNET is comprised of the Tacoma, Lakewood, Auburn, Bonney Lake, and Puyallup Police Departments, the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington State Department of Corrections (DOC). Other assisting agencies include the Kent Police Department and the King County Sheriff’s Office SeaTac Police Department Street Team. The investigation was supported by North West High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (NW HIDTA).”

“In addition to the agencies listed above, these law enforcement agencies assisted with the arrests and search warrants executed today: King County SWAT, Valley SWAT, Pierce County SWAT, Washington State Patrol SWAT, Lakewood Police Tactical Team, Valley Narcotics Enforcement Team (VNET), Joint Narcotics Enforcement Team (VNET), West Sound Narcotics Enforcement Team (WestNet), Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, Grays Harbor Sheriff’s Office, Hoquiam Police Department and Aberdeen Police Department.”

“The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew Colasurdo and Marci Ellsworth.”

Snohomish 2015

Local law enforcement agencies may benefit when the US Dept. of Homeland Security fails to keep heroin out of the US:

Seattle media: Heroin busts could finance police construction in Snohomish

 

Drug Take Back Day

A huge success for the legal drug dealers- they sold more than 12 million pounds of medications to people who did not need them:

WSFA October 26, 2019

DEA holds annual Drug Take Back Day

 

More here:

Port Angeles Drug War Covered By Press Release

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

Homeland Security Meth/Heroin Racket Rolls On

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?

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

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South entrance- Port Townsend Ship Canal

 

October 11, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Veteran’s background questioned

Well done. Significant research was required to investigate this story. Very complete reporting here. Much appreciated.

Leaving the comment section in place would have been a plus. It may have resulted in comments showing appreciation for this style of reporting.

Love to see similar reporting Re: Port Angeles CBP and their role in keeping drugs out of town.

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.

Related:

Port Angeles Drug War Covered By Press Release

Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree

 

October 9, 2019 Tacoma News Tribune

Myriad problems led to JBLM soldier dying after pinned under Stryker, investigation finds

Well done to Alexis Krell and the Tacoma News Tribune. Some news outlets would have gone with whatever press release was provided by Joint Base Lewis–McChord.

This story required extra research:

“Under the Freedom of Information Act, The News Tribune requested records of the investigation into Watters’ death, which the newspaper received Monday.”

 

Detailed reporting and meaningful comments here:

October 6, 2019 The Seattle Times

Stanford stuns No. 15 Washington in merciless, methodical thrashing

Why doesn’t this style of reporting cross over to stories about the US Dept. of Homeland Security, big drug busts, or the Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars?

 

We’re still seeing frequent shootings in the Puget Sound area.

WA voters approved enhanced background checks back in 2014:

November 4, 2014 Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Washington voters choose gun control; huge majority in Seattle area

Any reporting or updates on this?

 

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

 

Related:

Press Plays The Role of Armed Forces Public Affairs Staff

Newspapers Need Your Help

 

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

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

 

 

 

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Watching over the Bluff Trail at Fort Ebey.

 

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

 

Oct 10, 2019 MyNorthwest.com

Fight for quiet in Olympic National Park pits Navy versus nature

“For now, the skies above the Olympic Peninsula belong to the Navy’s mission of defending freedom. What that sounds like is up for debate.”

When the US returns from an undeclared war or military conflict without a victory- what becomes of American rights and freedoms?

 

Hometown Pride

“For the past couple of years, the Whidbey News-Times paid the insurance for the Veterans Day Parade, about $200, because it was a small way of saying thank you to the men and women who sacrificed so that we may have our liberties, including our Freedom of Speech.”

Were US troops sent to Vietnam so that Americans could be free to send letters to the editor?

Is there any case in which the US Armed Forces have been sent to distant lands on a mission to protect freedom of speech?

Is protecting freedom of speech even part of training scenarios?

Military Town – Hometown Pride

 

Recent Seattle Blue Angels Air Show event:

KIRO 7

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

 

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

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 baninterracial 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.

 

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.

 

Detailed reporting and meaningful comments here:

Oct. 5, 2019 The Seattle Times

Stanford stuns No. 15 Washington in merciless, methodical thrashing

Why doesn’t this style of reporting cross over to stories about the US Dept. of Homeland Security, big drug busts, or the Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars?

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

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?

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

Related:

Did the speech mention Armistice Day?

Jet Noise Made Them Free?

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

Let’s Honor The Troops In Honest Ways

Military Town – Hometown Pride

Navy on Whidbey is a Matter of National Security?

Armistice Day Is Now Free Chow Day

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

Goodbye Armistice Day

 

How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?

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

 

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

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

 

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?

Love to see more in the way of newspeople out asking questions. Get away from posting the press release handed down from whatever agency was involved in the latest bust.

Zero questions from newspeople:

Local meth news stories here.

Local heroin news stories here.

Plenty of questions here:

Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree

 

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA

An upgrade in staff requiring a new, $11.9 million, 50 agent facility. Secret arrest statistics, denied FOIA requests, heroin and meth in the community, no cross-border USBP arrest in more than 9 years, fraudulent overtime claims, 1,200-horsepower interceptor boats and zero questions from the press.

Possibly of interest-

Newspeople play the role of federal public affairs personnel during Operation Macho Swagger– a ride-along to let us know what is being done to keep the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca safe from B.C. incursions: Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin

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?

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

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

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

 

 

 

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South entrance- Port Townsend Ship Canal

 

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.

This information, provided by WDFW gives the impression that Island County sewage treatment plants may be sending unsafe product into local waters.

Specific WDFW beach information is posted in the links below.

 

BLOWERS BLUFF NORTH

 

COUPEVILLE

 

E SAN DE FUCA

 

LONG PT WEST

 

MONROE LANDING

 

OAK HARBOR BEACH PK

 

OAK HARBOR CITY PARK

 

OAK HARBOR

 

WINAS-MAYLOR PT-EAST

 

WINAS-MAYLOR PT-WEST

 

Jefferson County memories of happy & healthy beaches:

Here is a photo of a low tide outing at the PORT TOWNSEND SHIP CANAL/PORTAGE CANAL

 

Back in Island County

Stewardship is a priority:

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

Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area

The press is good for coverage on ribbon cutting ceremonies, grand openings, and project of the year awards.

Also:

Teaching young people to care for the environment, specifically our Salish Sea, is critical to the future.”

Love to see more in the way of newspeople out asking questions about what is going on in the Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area.

More here:

Newspapers Need Your Help

Oak Harbor Waterfront

 

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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. 20th, 2019.

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

Is the sewage treatment plant is sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

 

Sept. 16 Talk Radio 1210 WPHT

The Death of the Inquirer | What Can Newspapers Do To Keep Their Sinking Ships Afloat?

I’d be more interested in paying (again) for a local paper subscription if there was more in the way of investigative reporting & newspeople asking questions.

Reader Comments:

Today, I am an online subscriber to a newspaper that is not especially good at getting out and asking questions. Lately, they are posting more articles where there is no opportunity for readers to post comments.

No hate speech, insults, threats, foul language, attacking other commenters- these are rules that make sense.

Eliminating the opportunity for all to follow some basic rules and comment is information suppression. Elimination of reader comments may eventually lead me to cancel my online subscription.

What about TV news, news radio, public radio, etc. Where are they when questions need to be asked?

 

Two stories that cry out for news reporting:

Love to see updated reporting from newspeople anywhere on local water quality impacted by Whidbey sewage treatment plant outfalls.

Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area

Stewardship is a priority.

My questions:

Oak Harbor Waterfront

Zero questions from newspeople:

September 17, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Sewage plant recognized as project of the year

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?

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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?

 

 

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 contingent shrinks on Peninsula

“Border Patrol staffing totaled four agents in 2006. They worked in undersized quarters in downtown Port Angeles — in what’s now the Richard B. Anderson Federal Building.”

“The station had 42 personnel when ribbon-cutting ceremonies marked the headquarters’ opening Sept. 14, 2012.”

 

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.

 

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.

 

Related:

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?

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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.

 

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.

Cross-Border Maritime Traffic – Newspeople Remain Silent

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

 

Background:

Oak Harbor Waterfront

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

Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running

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

 

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”

See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.

 

Recent project cost update:

May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

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

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

 

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.

Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area

More here:

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

 

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

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

 

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

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

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

Related:

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?

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

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.

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?

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

Whidbey sewage treatment outfall. Zero questions from the press:

Oak Harbor Waterfront

 

How Do The Troops Defend The Constitution?

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

 

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

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

 

 

 

Photo- On watch over Fort Ebey

 

In the news:

Bainbridge Review July 20, 2019

Inslee brings presidential campaign and environmental message to Whidbey

“…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

Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running

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

 

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”

See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.

 

Recent project cost update:

May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

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

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

 

Coupeville

A situation linked to the Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant? Love to see newspeople provide updated reporting on this.

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

Source: WDFW

North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing

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

Source: WDFW

Sounds like the sewage treatment plant is sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

 

Looking for updated reporting from newspeople anywhere in the Puget Sound area, also updates from public agencies and volunteer groups with an eye on the health of local waters.

Love to see newspeople ask questions on the water quality impact of Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant outfalls.

 

Stewardship is a priority:

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

Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area

Background:

Oak Harbor Waterfront

 

More here:

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

Oak Harbor Splash Park – Water Quality & Conservation

Local Shellfish Aren’t Celebrating

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

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

Shipwreck Shores – Zero Questions From Newspeople

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

Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

 

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

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

 

Cheerful social media posts with plenty of exclamation points coming from public agencies and volunteer groups with an eye on the health of local waters.

Zero questions from newspeople.

Image above:

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated July 15, 2019.

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

“State Dept. of Health cautions that Clams, Oysters and Mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time.”

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

Eight months back

Plant up & running the day prior to this article:

November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running

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

 

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”

See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.

 

Recent project cost update:

May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

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

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

 

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.

Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area

Background:

Oak Harbor Waterfront

 

More here:

Oak Harbor Splash Park – Water Quality & Conservation

Local Shellfish Aren’t Celebrating

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

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

Shipwreck Shores – Zero Questions From Newspeople

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

Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

 

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

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

 

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

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

Even one time?

Newspeople remain silent.

 

Port Angeles

June 23, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Border Patrol contingent shrinks on Peninsula

“Lindsay said agents are focused on getting a handle on cross-border maritime traffic in partnership with the Coast Guard, Canadian authorities, state and local law enforcement agencies and tribal law enforcement officials to interdict smuggling and other illegal activities.”

 

Island County

2014

Island county to purchase new patrol boat to help with Puget Sound security:

Federal grant money goes to “…gain a better grasp on cross border activity and to prevent illegal crossings.”

“Funding for the boat was issued through the Homeland Security Grant Program under Operation Stonegarden.”

Has there been any post 911 history of maritime “cross-border activity” on Whidbey Island?

Has the Island County Homeland Security-funded patrol boat been involved in any arrest or seizure related in any way to the US/Canada border?

 

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

July 5, 2109 Kitsap Sun

Detectives seize over $900,000 worth of drugs in Bremerton bust

July 5, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Two arrested, heroin and methamphetamine seized at Port Angeles motels

July 6, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Sheriff’s Office: Port Angeles man arrested with more than $11,000 in narcotics

 

Welcome Home Troops

Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan- working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.

Don’t worry- The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:

Is local CBP staffing and infrastructure at all relevant in keeping heroin and meth from entering Port Angeles, Clallam County, the Olympic Peninsula, or the Puget Sound area?

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA

An upgrade in staff requiring a new, $11.9 million, 50 agent facility. Secret arrest statistics, denied FOIA requests, heroin and meth in the community, no cross-border USBP arrest in more than 9 years, fraudulent overtime claims, 1,200-horsepower interceptor boats and zero questions from the press.

Possibly of interest-

Newspeople play the role of federal public affairs personnel during Operation Macho Swagger– a ride-along to let us know what is being done to keep the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca safe from B.C. incursions: Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin

Local meth news stories here.

Local heroin news stories here.

 

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

More here:

Whidbey Homeland Security Grant Money- Newspeople Remain Silent

Port Angeles Border Patrol – Newspeople Remain Silent

Port Angeles CBP Staffing & Infrastructure – Newspeople Remain Silent

Port Angeles CBP – Keeping Meth Out of Town?

Puget Sound Homeland Security Industrial Complex

Port Angeles Heroin – Newspeople Remain Silent

News tip/story idea

 

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

 

Newspeople aren’t showing up to ask questions. Our questions appear in bold type.

June 25, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Soak up the fun at launching of Shipwreck Shores

“The waterside splash pad, dubbed Shipwreck Shores, features a pretend shipwreck, a craggy stream and plenty of squirting water. It utilizes clean city water — not treated water from the treatment plant nor reused water.”

From comments:

“Since the multi million dollar facility is state of the art and you are supposed to be able to drink the water after treatment…..shouldn’t they use that water at the splash park?”

Article makes no mention of local water quality impacted by sewage treatment plant outfall.

Clean City Water?

Is the state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant sending unsafe product into local waters?

 

June 28, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

City asks for reduced water use

From comments:

“…reduce their water usage by 10 percent…shorter showers, turn off water while brushing teeth, let lawns go dormant in the summer, water plants deeply and less often, fix leaks and flush toilets less

“Yes, and be sure to go the Grand Opening of the City of Oak Harbor’s “Shipwreck Shores” water splash park where all such reductions will be summarily dismissed and ignored.”

Will Clean City Water be used to operate the Splash Park in the months ahead? How clean is the product leaving the sewage treatment plant outfall?

 

Image at top of page:

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated June 30, 2019.

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

“State Dept. of Health cautions that Clams, Oysters and Mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time.”

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

 

More than seven months ago:

November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running

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

 

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”

See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.

 

Recent project cost update:

May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

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

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

 

Coupeville

A situation linked to the Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant? Love to see newspeople provide updated reporting on this.

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

Source: WDFW

North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing

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

Source: WDFW

Sounds like the sewage treatment plant is sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

 

Looking for updated reporting from newspeople anywhere in the Puget Sound area, also updates from public agencies and volunteer groups with an eye on the health of local waters.

Love to see newspeople ask questions on the water quality impact of Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant outfalls.

 

More here:

Local Shellfish Aren’t Celebrating

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

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

Shipwreck Shores – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Oak Harbor Waterfront

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

Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

 

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

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

 

KOMO News

June 26, 2019 The Seattle Times

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

Will Governor Inslee advocate for reducing environmental impacts by shutting down undeclared/unwon wars that never end?

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

Newspeople- please let us know.

 

More here:

Newspeople Remain Silent – Missing A Chance To Ask Questions

 

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

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

Port Angeles Border Patrol – Newspeople Remain Silent

 

News Tip/Story idea:

Whidbey Island

New sewage treatment plant in operation since 11/15/18.

WDFW:

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

Local Shellfish Aren’t Celebrating

Oak Harbor Waterfront

 

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

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

 

Image above:

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated June 26, 2019.

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

“State Dept. of Health cautions that Clams, Oysters and Mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time.”

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

 

June 25, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Soak up the fun at launching of Shipwreck Shores

“The waterside splash pad, dubbed Shipwreck Shores, features a pretend shipwreck, a craggy stream and plenty of squirting water. It utilizes clean city water — not treated water from the treatment plant nor reused water.”

From comments:

“Since the multi million dollar facility is state of the art and you are supposed to be able to drink the water after treatment…..shouldn’t they use that water at the splash park?”

Article makes no mention of local water quality impacted by sewage treatment plant outfall.

We’re not seeing any signs of improvement in more than 7 months.

Looking for updated reporting from newspeople anywhere in the Puget Sound area, also updates from public agencies and volunteer groups with an eye on the health of local waters.

Love to see newspeople ask questions on the water quality impact of Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant outfalls.

 

Stewardship is a priority:

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

Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area

 

More than seven months ago:

November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running

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

 

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”

See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.

 

Recent project cost update:

May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

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

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

 

Coupeville

A situation linked to the Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant? Love to see newspeople provide updated reporting on this.

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

Source: WDFW

North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing

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

Source: WDFW

Sounds like the sewage treatment plant is sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

 

More here:

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

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

Shipwreck Shores – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Oak Harbor Waterfront

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

Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

 

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

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

 

June 23, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Border Patrol contingent shrinks on Peninsula

“Border Patrol staffing totaled four agents in 2006. They worked in undersized quarters in downtown Port Angeles — in what’s now the Richard B. Anderson Federal Building.”

“The station had 42 personnel when ribbon-cutting ceremonies marked the headquarters’ opening Sept. 14, 2012.”

“Increased presence of Border Patrol agents between 2006-2010 sparked protests over such practices as the agency setting up checkpoints on U.S. Highway 101 to apprehend illegal immigrants and controversy over construction of the new headquarters to house more agents.”

“Lindsay said agents are focused on getting a handle on cross-border maritime traffic in partnership with the Coast Guard, Canadian authorities, state and local law enforcement agencies and tribal law enforcement officials to interdict smuggling and other illegal activities.”

 

Newspeople aren’t showing up to ask questions.

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

Newspeople,

Why did the Blaine Sector Weekly US Border Patrol blotter go extinct?

When is the last time the Port Angeles Border Patrol made an arrest of any kind?

Any arrests connected to cross-border maritime traffic?

When local USBP staffing went from four to 42 agents, what increase in arrests and apprehensions was achieved?

 

Why are Border Patrol arrest statistics secret at Port Angeles?

Elsewhere, when there’s something to brag about- the public is promptly notified:

Border Patrol K-9 Sniffs out Cocaine Hidden in Dashboard

 

Are fraudulent overtime claims still the norm at Port Angeles?

Border Patrol whistleblower pays price for refusing overtime pay

 

Suspicionless checkpoints and bus boardings- away from border crossings and ports of entry:

Did the use of these checkpoints in Jefferson and Clallam Counties result in the seizure of any inbound heroin or meth?

 

Getting a handle on cross-border maritime traffic:

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

2011-

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

2013-

Heroin epidemic gripping Port Angeles

2015-

Port Angeles residents fed up with heroin problem

2017-

“Residents who filled the Port Angeles City Council chambers and lobby Tuesday night said they were fed up with the heroin epidemic in Clallam County and asked what is being done to stop opioid abuse and what they can do to help.”

2019-

KING 5 News

Jail staff are now using medication to help addicts detox from heroin while in custody.”

Peninsula Daily News

Clallam health official: Narcan helping to cut overdose deaths

“About half of the overdoses have been from prescription drugs, not heroin, she said.” What about the other half?

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

Even one time?

Newspeople remain silent.

Possibly of interest-

Newspeople play the role of federal public affairs personnel during Operation Macho Swagger– a ride-along to let us know what is being done to keep the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca safe from B.C. incursions: Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin

 

The Border Patrol has worked against itself on the Olympic Peninsula.

Secret arrest statistics and denied FOIA requests do not enhance agency credibility. Local law enforcement organizations avoid all this by establishing working relationships with the press.

It’s time for journalists to make appointments, schedule interviews and ask some questions. Suggested topics here: News tip/story idea

If no answers are available, please do a story describing the working relationship you have with the Washington State Patrol, local sheriffs departments and city police departments. Any denied FOIA requests generated by these agencies?  Please compare to the Border Patrol at Port Angeles.

 

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

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

More here:

Port Angeles CBP Staffing & Infrastructure – Newspeople Remain Silent

Port Angeles CBP – Keeping Meth Out of Town?

Puget Sound Homeland Security Industrial Complex

Port Angeles Heroin – Newspeople Remain Silent

News tip/story idea

 

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

 

Image above:

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated June 22, 2019.

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

“State Dept. of Health cautions that Clams, Oysters and Mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time.”

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

 

June 21, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Operators working to de-stink dryer at sewage treatment plant

“The plant went online last fall — and was odor-free, at least on the outside — but the dryer has been the last piece of the puzzle. The city purchased the complex machine from a company in Germany and even sent a technician on a tour of German plants that use the technology.”

Article makes no mention of local water quality impacted by sewage treatment plant outfall.

We’re not seeing any signs of improvement in more than 7 months.

Looking for updated reporting from newspeople anywhere in the Puget Sound area, also updates from public agencies and volunteer groups with an eye on the health of local waters.

Love to see newspeople ask questions on the water quality impact of Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant outfalls.

 

More than seven months ago:

November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running

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

 

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”

See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.

 

Recent project cost update:

May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

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

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

 

Coupeville

A situation linked to the Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant? Love to see newspeople provide updated reporting on this.

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

Source: WDFW

North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing

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

Source: WDFW

Sounds like the sewage treatment plant is sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

 

More here:

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

Shipwreck Shores – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Oak Harbor Waterfront

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

Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

 

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

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

 

US Troops at the border, El Chapo takedown, opioid lawsuits, REAL ID, Homeland Security grant money, strict post 911 security protocols and a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security fail to keep meth out of Boone County, Arkansas:

Jun 14, 2019 KYTV News

Prosecuting attorney gives new details about large meth bust in Boone County, Arkansas

“The 14th Judicial District prosecuting attorney said the drug bust is the largest meth bust in the western district of Arkansas, and the second largest in the whole state.”

“This last phase of the operation lasted a little over a year and a half, and this 149 pounds was part of this last phase of this investigation,” said Chief Chris Graddy.

“Sheriff Mike Moore said this was just one phase of a six-year investigation, and more than 100 people have been charged over that time period.”

“The prosecuting attorney said this bust would not be possible without the work of local law enforcement and the help of the federal government.”

Federal government swings into action after meth moves past federal agents manning a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security- then on into Boone County, Arkansas.

Outstanding team effort guys.

“Not only did we get this methamphetamine off the street, we took cash from the bad guys that’ll be used to fight drugs, we took vehicles from the bad guys that’ll be used to fight what’s happened,” Ethredge said.

“The methamphetamine that’s being dealt with by law enforcement today that we’re prosecuting is not being made locally,” Ethredge said. “It’s being imported. We know from this particular case exactly how the traffic of this meth came in from this community: where it came out of Mexico, the line it took to get here.”

These busts can get real big when criminal activity is allowed to develop over a period of six years.

Wonder what was happening at border crossing inspections during the 6 years these folks were under investigation.

Do the good guys who made the local bust notify the good guys at the border about the weak links in their process?

Love to see newspeople ask:

Were federal authorities at the border notified during this 6-year ongoing investigation?

Did the meth traffickers get fast track screening at the border so as not to disrupt this 6-year ongoing investigation?

If the meth traffickers were given a pass at the border- would that have tipped them off as to the investigation- or would that have been seen as standard protocol?

Imagine that LE authorities observe a shoplifter or bank robber in action. Instead of going in to make an arrest they back off and conduct an investigation that goes on for 6 years. What if they applied the same tactic Re: crimes involving arson, terrorism, child abuse, DUI, etc.

April 28, 2019 Region 8 News

Report: Mexican drug cartels bringing pure meth to Northwest Arkansas

Apr 25, 2019 KNWA News

Special Report: Pure Meth Imported By Mexican Drug Cartels Threatens Arkansans

“What we’re seeing coming from Mexico is a better, quality product. It’s almost 99-percent pure. It’s better quality, there’s more of it, it’s cheaper,” said Dak Kees, United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas.

“Kees says cars with homemade compartments carry pounds of meth at a time from the southern border across state lines.”

Vehicles with customized compartments? 

Same tactic in Montana:

“Task force officers are also learning that vehicles with aftermarket switches and compartments are also being used to cross the border into Mexico and come back up to Montana, likely several times.”

Love to see newspeople ask:

If K-9 screenings and vehicle inspections for customized switches and compartments are effective when conducted by law enforcement authorities in Montana- why don’t these same practices work at the border?

Welcome Home Troops

Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan- working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.

Don’t worry-

The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:

More here:

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

Montana – Homeland Security Meth Racket Rolls On

Port Angeles CBP – Keeping Meth Out of Town?

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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.

Please Dispose of Properly

 

 

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

Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running

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

 

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”

See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.

 

Recent project cost update:

May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

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

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

 

Coupeville

A situation linked to the Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant? Waiting for newspeople to let us know.

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

Source: WDFW

North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing

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

Source: WDFW

Sounds like the sewage treatment plant is sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

 

More here:

Shipwreck Shores – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Oak Harbor Waterfront

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

Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

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

 

 

Looking for updated reporting from newspeople anywhere in the Puget Sound area, also updates from public agencies and volunteer groups with an eye on the health of local waters.

Love to see newspeople ask questions on the water quality impact of Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant outfalls.

Image at top of page:

Washington State Dept. of Health status updated June 2nd, 2019.

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

“State Dept. of Health cautions that Clams, Oysters and Mussels from this beach are not fit for human consumption at any time.”

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

 

In the news:

May 24, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Splash park name decided in contest

“The splash park will be named Shipwreck Shores.”

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

 

Stewardship is a priority:

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

Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area

 

More than six months back:

November 16, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running

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

 

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”

See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.

 

Recent project cost update:

May 14, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

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

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

 

Coupeville

A situation linked to the Oak Harbor sewage treatment plant? 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:

Oak Harbor Waterfront

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

Whidbey Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall – Zero Questions From Newspeople

Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

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

 

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

Drug trafficker faces prison sentence

“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-

“Residents who filled the Port Angeles City Council chambers and lobby Tuesday night said they were fed up with the heroin epidemic in Clallam County and asked what is being done to stop opioid abuse and what they can do to help.”

2019-

KING 5 News

Jail staff are now using medication to help addicts detox from heroin while in custody.”

Peninsula Daily News

Clallam health official: Narcan helping to cut overdose deaths

“About half of the overdoses have been from prescription drugs, not heroin, she said.” What about the other half?

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

Even one time?

Newspeople remain silent.

Possibly of interest-

Newspeople play the role of federal public affairs personnel during Operation Macho Swagger– a ride-along to let us know what is being done to keep the southern edge of the Strait of Juan de Fuca safe from B.C. incursions: Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin

 

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

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

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

 

Newspeople,

Why did the Blaine Sector Weekly US Border Patrol blotter go extinct?

When is the last time the Port Angeles Border Patrol made an arrest of any kind?

Any arrests connected to the US/Canada border?

Any arrests connected to a Homeland Security mission?

Are fraudulent overtime claims still the norm at Port Angeles?

Border Patrol whistleblower pays price for refusing overtime pay

 

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

More here:

Port Angeles CBP – Keeping Meth Out of Town?

Puget Sound Homeland Security Industrial Complex

Port Angeles Heroin – Newspeople Remain Silent

News tip/story idea

Operation Macho Swagger & Port Angeles Heroin

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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:

Please Dispose of Properly

 

 

Update:

November 22, 2019 South Whidbey Record

Oak Harbor’s new sewage treatment plant recognized by EPA

 

Update: Tour of the Clean Water Facility on Tuesday, Sept. 24th, 2019.

Thank You – Oak Harbor Clean Water Facility

 

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

Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running

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

 

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”

See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.

 

Stewardship is a priority:

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

Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area

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

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? 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

Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

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

 

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

Oak Harbor’s sewage plant up and running

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

 

November 30, 2018 Whidbey News-Times

Ceremony celebrates sewage treatment plant coming online

“…ribbon cutting Thursday for the city’s new, state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.”

See Washington State Dept. of Health status updated Dec 2nd, 2018 here.

 

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

Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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

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

 

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

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

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

More here:

Earth Day 2019 – News Tip/Story Idea

Oak Harbor – State Of The Art Sewage Treatment Plant

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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.

 

Federal agents swing into action after meth moves past strict post 911 security protocols and federal agents staffing a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security, then, on into Montana:

February 14, 2019 KRTV News video:

Montana’s Drug Superhighway: How traffickers conceal carloads of drugs from police

Homeland Security Vote of Confidence:

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?

“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.”

 

April 25, 2019 KNWA News video:

Special Report: 99-Percent of Arkansas Meth Smuggled From Mexico Via Interstates

“…cars with homemade compartments carry pounds of meth at a time from the southern border across state lines.”

Wonder what was happening at border crossing inspections when the cars with the homemade compartments rolled up.

Do the good guys who made the local bust notify the good guys at the border about the weak links in their process?

 

May 22, 2018 CBS Denver:

Police: Rookie K-9 Finds 60 Pounds Of Meth In First Drug Bust

“Officers called in Rye for a more thorough search and the K-9 discovered “two hidden compartments” where the rest of the drugs were stored.”

 

March 15, 2019 The Fresno Bee News video:

Police, DEA seize nearly 70 pounds of cartel meth. It may be Fresno’s biggest bust

“…a search dog found 11 pounds of meth stashed near a wheel well.”

 

No inspection of rail shipments entering the US?

Feb 27, 2019 Times Colonist

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

“Ontario Provincial Police said they found 180 kilograms of meth during their investigation, which began when employees at four different Ford dealerships reported suspicious bags inside tires that were in the trunks of new Fusion cars.”

“Police said the cars were built at Ford’s assembly plant in Hermosillo, Mexico, before being put on northbound trains.”

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:

Montana – Homeland Security Meth Racket Rolls On

Port Angeles CBP – Keeping Meth Out of Town?

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

Tangled Up In Hometown Pride?

 

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.

Please Dispose of Properly