Letters to the editor, March 10 - March 16

Posted

The Editor:

Anyone who watched the March 6 CBS Sunday Morning’s TV coverage, “A Matter of Time” on the possible destruction in the Pacific Northwest by the “Big One” – the major earthquake and tsunami which more and more geologists are forecasting to occur in the relatively near future – can be forgiven for being concerned. While senior citizens can hope it will not happen in our time, many of us have children and grandchildren who might well be affected.

At a time when we are experiencing ridiculous presidential debates, perhaps more important discussions could be encouraged related to what action candidates would take in the event that this disaster would occur. Perhaps they should also be thinking how states can be granted federal aid to handle safety precautions before, rather than after, a disaster of this kind?

On a local level, perhaps we should also be questioning the approval of new housing construction on the oceans’ edge, particularly at a time when “Tsunami Evacuation Route” signs are being posted in parts of Whatcom County. Events like Wings Over  Water are a far better use for these properties, in my view. On a personal level, perhaps it is also time to pay attention to the Emergency Preparedness Guide available in Washington state.

Trevor Hoskins

Blaine

The Editor:

On February 12, Sandra Robson received the Paul deArmond Award for investigative journalism. The Paul deArmond Award is given “To honor freedom of the press and the writers who boldly pursue the truth.”

Ms. Robson was given the award in recognition of her “investigative journalism uncovering the financial and organizational connections between promoters of anti-Indian racism and fossil fuel industrial developers in the Pacific Northwest.”

Whether you are a Whatcom County newcomer or lifelong resident, reading Ms. Robson’s articles will give you a greater understanding of the forces fighting to shape and control Whatcom County. 

Newspapers today are under pressure to avoid upsetting the moneyed interests that support them with paid advertising. For Whatcom County newspapers, this has been especially true regarding coverage of the proposed GPT coal export terminal.

You can read Sandra Robson’s articles at coalstop.com. Ms. Robson’s articles are skillfully written, contain numerous photographs and are enlightening and thoroughly interesting reading.

Paula Rotundi

Blaine

The Editor:

I would like to inform the readers of a prestigious award bestowed upon one of our local residents. Sandy Robson of Birch Bay received the Paul deArmond Citizen Journalism Award, given  by NWcitizen.com, on February 12. The award is given to highlight the importance of citizen journalism in maintaining our democracy.

Ben Franklin stated, “It is the first responsibility of every citizen to question authority,” and Sandy has taken on that task by challenging the authority of global corporations that would turn our county into a sacrifice zone to profit from coal export. She has researched public records to discover the falsehoods spread by local coal export proponents, and exposed the disturbing attempts of the coal companies to influence our local elections and undermine local governance.

Sandy Robson’s dedication to reporting on these important matters affirms Thomas Jefferson’s belief that “an enlightened citizenry is indispensable for the proper functioning of a republic.” Thank you, Sandy!

Mike Sennett

Bellingham

The Editor:

Finally some good news! We all know for years now how the Blaine Post Office left tons to be desired. The former postmasters have left such a momentous mess due either to their incompetence or just not wanting to tackle such a disaster.

Well, we have had a new postmistress since July. She and her right-hand man, Suki, dove into the disaster with both feet. They are making strides. I really feel if we could just give them time and patience, we all will see a major improvement in our post office. (Note: When approaching Suki, walk softly. I mean that in a kind way. They have such a huge headache to deal with that he can become defensive until he finds out what the issue is.)

I can honestly say they are truly interested in improving the operations of the post office and the staff’s working duties and customer service.

Thank you, postmistress Kim and Suki, for taking on the horrendous job.

Kay Warner

Blaine

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