Clallamity Jen Podcast

Staying Safe

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 02 May 2026 12:30:00 GMT

This article includes the talking points created by ChatGPT that we covered in our podcast. The complete automated transcript of the podcast can be accessed by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

Intro Haiku:

Awareness matters

Safety and security

Preventing problems

Why Personal Safety in Clallam County Matters:

In a rural area with limited resources, such as Clallam County, it is imperative that the people do all they can to stay safe in their daily lives.

The fact is, personal safety awareness can help law enforcement by preventing problems, which in turn can help lessen the strain on those resources.

Since local law enforcement is limited in manpower and laws, as was made known at the public safety town hall on April 16, 2026, that’s all the more reason to implement personal safety habits:

There is substantial data, including from law enforcement agencies and academic research, indicating that personal safety awareness reduces victimization and actively helps police by preventing, deterring, and reporting crime.

Key stats and findings include:

* Over 60% Reduction in Risk: Proactive personal safety awareness, such as situational awareness (avoiding distractions, staying alert), is reported to reduce a person’s risk of becoming a victim of crime by over 60%.

* Neighborhood Watch Effectiveness: Active watch programs and community awareness can reduce crime in targeted areas by 16% to 26%. These programs work by teaching residents to identify and report suspicious behavior, turning residents into the “eyes and ears” of law enforcement.

* Deterrence of Opportunistic Crimes: Criminals often look for “easy targets” (those distracted or unaware). By exercising awareness—such as walking with purpose, locking doors, and not appearing distracted—individuals reduce opportunities for crimes like mugging or theft.

* Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED): Data shows that simple, proactive safety measures—such as improved exterior lighting, trimming shrubs, and using security cameras—significantly discourage crime and assist in identifying perpetrators.

* Better Police Data & Faster Response: When citizens report suspicious activity immediately, they provide law enforcement with actionable information. This allows police to allocate resources to “hot spots” more efficiently.

* Case Study (Cardiff Model): In Cardiff, UK, implementing community-based data sharing on violent incidents led to a 32% relative reduction in assault-related injuries recorded by police, significantly saving costs for both health services and the criminal justice system.

How Personal Safety Helps Law Enforcement:

* Reduces Demand for Service: By preventing crimes before they happen, awareness reduces the load on overworked police departments.

* Provides Quality Information: Aware citizens report better descriptions of suspects, vehicles, and timelines, leading to higher clearance rates.

* Acts as Deterrence: Criminals are less likely to operate in areas where they know residents are observant, organized, and proactive.

Source

This podcast isn’t about never calling the cops. It’s about simple habits and security measures that can keep people safe; and recognizing that proactively staying safe can help redirect the use of limited law enforcement resources to serious community threats that the police are best equipped to handle.

This isn’t legal advice; always consult with a professional.

PODCAST INTRO:

Today’s episode is about something simple, but overlooked — personal security in everyday life.

This is not about fear. It’s about awareness, habits, and avoiding problems before they start.

Most issues — break-ins, theft, scams — don’t happen because someone is unlucky. They happen because someone was an easy target.

The goal here is straightforward: make yourself a harder target without overcomplicating your life.

We’re going to break this into three areas:

* Home security

* Awareness in public

* Scam prevention

SEGMENT 1: HOME SECURITY

What this is about

Basic upgrades and habits that prevent most home-related problems.

What actually matters

Most break-ins are not sophisticated. They are quick, opportunistic, and avoid resistance.

Talking Points

1. Doors are the weak point

* Most break-ins still happen through the front or back door

* Not forced entry — just unlocked or weak hardware

* A solid deadbolt matters more than fancy systems

* Reinforce the strike plate — long screws into the frame, not short ones

2. Sliding doors are a known failure point

* Standard locks are weak

* Simple fix: physical bar in the track

* Secondary pin lock if you want extra security

3. Lighting changes behavior

* Criminals avoid visibility

* Motion lights on:

* Corners of the house

* Backyard access

* Side yards

* Dark homes get attention. Lit homes get skipped.

4. Landscaping matters

* Overgrown bushes = hiding spots

* Keep entry points visible from the street or neighbors

5. Garages and sheds

* In rural areas, these are primary targets

* Tools are easy to steal and easy to sell

* Keep them locked — even during the day

6. Mail and packages

* Mail piling up signals absence

* Use hold mail services when gone

* Locking mailbox if possible

7. Alarm systems — realistic expectations

* They deter and notify

* They don’t stop someone already inside

* A basic system is enough for most people

Why people should care

Most home issues are preventable with small changes. This is not about spending money—it’s about removing easy opportunities.

Discussion Questions

* What’s one weak point at your home you already know about but haven’t fixed?

* Do you rely more on technology or physical security like locks and lighting?

* If someone walked around your house at night, where could they hide?

* Are your garage and tools more exposed than your main house?

That covers your home. Now let’s talk about when you’re out — because most people drop their awareness the second they leave their driveway.

SEGMENT 2: AWARENESS IN PUBLIC

What this is about

Simple awareness habits that reduce risk in everyday situations.

What actually matters

Most people targeted in public are distracted, rushed, or unaware.

Talking Points

1. The “Head Up” rule

* Look around before you move

* Especially when:

* Getting out of your car

* Loading groceries

* Walking into or out of a building

* Most people are looking down at their phone or focused on tasks

2. Parking lot awareness

* Park where you can be seen, not where it’s convenient

* Before exiting your vehicle:

* Look around

* Notice who’s nearby

* When returning to your car:

* Don’t fumble with keys

* Have them ready

3. Recognizing behavior, not appearance

It’s not about what someone looks like

* It’s about what they’re doing

* Red flags:

* Watching you too closely

* Moving when you move

* Closing distance without a clear reason

4. The “approach” scenario

* Many problems start with conversation

* Someone approaches with a story or request

* You are not obligated to engage

* A simple “No” is enough

5. Boundaries

* Say no early, not late

* Don’t let someone pull you into a situation you didn’t choose

* If something feels off, leave

6. Local reality

* Rural areas:

* Less visibility

* Longer response times

* Town areas:

* Parking lots

* Stores

* More opportunistic behavior

Why people should care

Awareness is not paranoia. It’s just paying attention before something becomes a problem.

Discussion Questions

* When was the last time you were fully aware in a parking lot — not distracted?

* Do you tend to be polite even when something feels off?

* Have you ever ignored your instincts and regretted it?

* What’s one habit you could change immediately when getting in or out of your car?

Now we get into the biggest issue affecting this audience right now — scams. This is where people lose the most money, and it’s happening every day.

SEGMENT 3: SCAM AWARENESS

What this is about

Recognizing and avoiding the most common scams targeting older adults.

What actually matters

Scammers rely on urgency, emotion, and confusion.

Talking Points

* Phone scams

* Calls pretending to be:

* IRS

* Social Security

* Law enforcement

* They create urgency:

* “You owe money”

* “You’ll be arrested”

* Reality:

* No legitimate agency demands immediate payment over the phone

‼️ Rule: Hang up. Call the official number yourself.

2. Family emergency scams

* “Grandchild in jail”

* “Family member needs money now”

* Designed to trigger panic

‼️ Rule: Verify through a second source before doing anything.

3. Email scams

* Look legitimate

* Fake logins, fake alerts

* Attachments that shouldn’t be opened

‼️ Rule: If you didn’t expect it, don’t click it.

4. Text message scams

* Delivery notifications

* Bank alerts

* “Click here” links

‼️ Rule: Never use the link. Go directly to the official website.

5. Contractor scams

* Door-to-door offers

* “We’re working in the area”

* Asking for large upfront cash

* No written agreement

* Reality check:

* Legitimate contractors don’t pressure you

* They provide written bids

* They don’t rush you into decisions

6. Long-term scams (romance, trust-building)

* Build relationship over time

* Eventually ask for money

* Often avoid meeting in person

‼️ Red flag: Any financial request from someone you haven’t met face-to-face.

7. Simple financial rules

* Never send money via:

* Gift cards

* Wire transfers

* Crypto

* Always verify independently

* Slow down decisions involving money

Why people should care

This is the most common way people lose large amounts of money. Not burglary — scams.

Discussion Questions

* Have you or someone you know been targeted by a scam recently? What happened?

* What kind of message would make you pause versus act immediately?

* Do you double-check requests for money — or rely on trust?

* What’s one rule you could follow that would prevent most scams?

SEGMENT 4: THE FRAMEWORK

Core Principles

1. Slow is safe

* Urgency creates mistakes

* Take a pause before acting

2. Trust patterns, not stories

* Stories can sound real

* Behavior reveals intent:

* Pressure

* urgency

* secrecy

3. Layer your security

* No single fix solves everything

* Combine:

* Good locks

* Lighting

* Awareness

* Caution with money

Discussion Questions

* Where in your life do you feel rushed into decisions?

* Do you rely more on instinct or logic when something feels off?

* Which layer of your security is currently the weakest?

* What is one change you will actually implement this week?

CONCLUSION:

This isn’t about turning your life upside down.

It’s about tightening up a few habits:

* Lock your doors properly

* Pay attention when you’re out

* Slow down when money is involved

Most problems are preventable.

And the goal isn’t to live cautiously — it’s to live confidently because you’ve handled the basics.

YouTube Media:

What was on our TV during the podcast:

Gavin de Becker, The Gift of Fear: The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker is a 1997 self-help book that teaches readers to trust their intuition (or "gift of fear") to recognize and avoid potential violence, covering situations like street crime, domestic abuse, and workplace threats. De Becker, a security consultant, argues that these gut feelings are reliable survival signals, offering practical advice on how to act on them, such as learning to say "no" without negotiation.

Jeff Cooper’s Color Code: Jeff Cooper's Color Code is a four-stage system (White, Yellow, Orange, Red) designed to manage situational awareness and mental readiness for self-defense. It promotes maintaining a relaxed, aware state (Yellow) to avoid surprise, rather than paranoid fear. The goal is to avoid being caught in "Condition White“.

Pierce County Sheriff’s Office: A recent scam that targeted family of an incarcerated individual.

Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office: A recent mail theft operation and the person was caught in the act.

Doorbell News: The things that happen at people’s front doors. A good reminder to keep doors and mailboxes locked.

Thank you for listening, sharing & subscribing — and staying safe!

Strait Shooter:

Don’t miss the best — and only — satirical news in Clallam County. The latest Friday edition shoots into inboxes at 6:03 this morning!

Community Opportunities:

4PA:

Calico Cat Social Club:

Clallam County Letters:

New issues are published at 6am every Monday and Thursday.

✍️ Now Accepting Rejected Letters to Local Newspapers:

Have you had a letter to the editor rejected from the Sequim Gazette or the Peninsula Daily News? Clallam County Letters will publish it.

While this blog is focused on letters to elected officials and government, it is also a platform for the silenced, unheard, and ignored voices of Clallam County residents.

Email your letter, along with the response from the newspaper stating why they wouldn’t print the letter, to clallamityjen@gmail.com. Names, emails, and personal information will be redacted from published letters.

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

✍️ Redress State Legislators in District 24:

* Senator Mike Chapman: (360) 786-7646, email form

* Representative Adam Bernbaum: (360) 786-7916, email form

* Representative Steve Tharinger: (360) 786-7904, email form

✍️ Redress Clallam County Commissioners:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field or forward after sending.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Deranged May Day

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 01 May 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Protesting business

Economic battleground

Dividing people

Today’s podcast focuses on the Indivisible Sequim May Day protest; read about the event here.

Intro:

May 1st — May Day — isn’t just a date. It comes with a long, complicated history that still shapes how it’s used today.

It starts with the Haymarket Affair in Chicago. Workers were striking for an eight-hour workday when a protest turned violent after a bomb went off and police opened fire. In the aftermath, several labor activists were executed, and the event became a lasting symbol of worker struggle.

In 1889, the Second International — a coalition of socialist groups — declared May 1st an international day for workers. The goal was simple: unify labor movements and push for better conditions.

Over time, the meaning shifted. In the 20th century, especially after the rise of communist governments, May Day became something more centralized and political. In the Soviet Union and across the Eastern Bloc, it turned into a state-run event—large parades, military displays, and public demonstrations of government power, often staged in places like Red Square.

Today, May Day still carries both identities. It’s recognized in many places as a workers’ holiday, but it also remains closely tied to activism rooted in those same socialist traditions.

So when looking at a May Day event happening in Sequim, it’s worth remembering: this isn’t just a local gathering. It’s part of a much bigger historical and political tradition — and that context matters when asking what these events mean for a small community like Sequim.

🎙️ Counter Discussion: May Day Event in Sequim

Quick context (from their own page)

The Indivisible Sequim May Day event is part of a broader national effort encouraging:

* “No Work. No School. No Shopping. No Banking.” (Indivisible)

* Economic disruption to “flex…economic power” and stop “business as usual” (Indivisible)

* A coordinated, nationwide day of non-participation in normal economic and civic life (Indivisible)

Their local page also includes a caveat encouraging people to still support local businesses during Sequim’s Irrigation Festival (Indivisible Sequim)

1) Impact on a Small Rural Economy (Sales Tax + Tourism)

Why this matters: Sequim is a small, tourism-dependent town where sales tax and local spending are a major part of funding public services.

Key point: A coordinated call for “no shopping” and “no work” directly cuts into:

* Daily retail revenue

* Restaurant traffic

* Tourism spending during a key seasonal window

In a large city, one day may be absorbed. In a small town, it’s felt immediately.

“If you tell people not to shop or work—even for one day—that’s not abstract. That’s money not going into local businesses, not paying wages, and not generating tax revenue for the community.”

Community impact

* Reduced sales tax → less funding for infrastructure, emergency services, schools

* Small businesses (already thin margins) lose a full day of income

* Seasonal events like the Irrigation Festival depend on strong turnout

Discussion questions

* How much lost revenue can small businesses realistically absorb?

* Should national protest strategies be adapted for small-town economies?

* Who actually bears the cost of a “no shopping” day locally?

2) Message to Students: Protest vs. Education

Why this matters: The event explicitly encourages students to skip school or walk out (Indivisible)

Key point:

This creates a value signal: Civic action is framed as more important than showing up for education.

“Encouraging kids to skip school sends a message that education is optional when something political comes up.”

Community impact

* Undermines school attendance norms

* Puts teachers and administrators in difficult positions

* Creates inconsistency: some students participate, others don’t

Balanced nuance (important for credibility)

* Civic engagement can be valuable

* But structured civic education vs. unsupervised walkouts are not the same

Discussion questions

* Where’s the line between civic engagement and undermining education?

* Should schools be neutral spaces or political organizing grounds?

* Who is responsible for the consequences of missed instruction time?

3) Workforce Disruption & Business Operations

Why this matters: The event explicitly calls for people to not go to work (Indivisible)

Key point

This doesn’t just affect “big corporations”—it hits:

* Local employers

* Co-workers covering shifts

* Essential services

“If people don’t show up to work, someone else has to pick up the slack—or the business just loses productivity entirely.”

Community impact

* Staffing shortages for small businesses

* Lost wages for hourly workers

* Potential service disruptions (healthcare, retail, food service)

Real-world tension

Even supporters acknowledge timing issues—some workers can’t afford to miss work or get time off easily.

Discussion questions

* Who can afford to participate—and who can’t?

* Does this kind of protest disproportionately affect working-class people?

* Is it reasonable to expect employers and coworkers to absorb the disruption?

4) Does the Event Support the Local Community?

Why this matters: The messaging is national and ideological, but the effects are local and economic.

Key point

The event is designed to disrupt normal community function:

* No shopping

* No work

* No school

That inherently conflicts with:

* Supporting local businesses

* Maintaining community stability

“You can’t both disrupt your local economy and claim to support it at the same time.”

Community impact

* Divides residents (participants vs. non-participants)

* Creates tension between activism and everyday life

* Risks alienating small business owners

Discussion questions

* What does “supporting the community” actually mean in practice?

* Are there ways to protest that don’t harm local neighbors?

* Who decides what trade-offs are acceptable?

5) The “Big Caveat” Contradiction: Their statement

They say: Support local businesses during the Irrigation Festival (Indivisible Sequim)

Why this matters:

This directly conflicts with:

* “No shopping”

* Economic disruption strategy

Key point

The protest relies on withholding economic activity, but the caveat asks people to continue economic activity locally.

Plain-English framing

“They’re saying ‘don’t spend money’—but also ‘please spend money here.’ Those two ideas cancel each other out.”

Deeper critique

* If people do spend locally → protest loses impact

* If people don’t spend → local businesses are harmed

Either way, the strategy becomes inconsistent.

Discussion questions

* Can you selectively apply economic disruption without undermining the strategy?

* Does this caveat acknowledge unintended harm—or just try to soften it?

* Is this a messaging contradiction or a practical compromise?

Idée fixe (French for "fixed idea") is a 19th-century term for an irrational obsession, passion, or mental preoccupation that dominates a person's thoughts, resisting all attempts to change it. It originated as a clinical term for severe obsession but is also used for milder, obsessive tendencies or as a recurring thematic motif in music (e.g., Berlioz) and literature.

🎯 Closing:

“This event is built around the idea that stopping normal life creates leverage. But in a small town like Sequim, ‘normal life’ isn’t abstract—it’s your neighbor’s business, your kid’s school, and your local economy. The real question isn’t whether protest is valid—it’s whether this specific kind of protest helps or harms the community it’s happening in.”

Friday Reminders:

Go to school, work, shop, and if the bank isn’t closed take advantage of it.

Also, new Strait Shooter is out on Friday, the only satire news source in Clallam County.

YouTube Media:

What was on our TV during the podcast:

Fascinating vending machines in Japan:

Thank you for reading, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

Don’t miss the best — and only — satirical news in Clallam County. The latest Friday edition shoots into inboxes at 6:03 this morning!

Community Opportunities:

4PA:

Calico Cat Social Club:

Clallam County Letters:

New issues are published at 6am every Monday and Thursday.

✍️ Now Accepting Rejected Letters to Local Newspapers:

Have you had a letter to the editor rejected from the Sequim Gazette or the Peninsula Daily News? Clallam County Letters will publish it.

While this blog is focused on letters to elected officials and government, it is also a platform for the silenced, unheard, and ignored voices of Clallam County residents.

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

✍️ Redress State Legislators in District 24:

* Senator Mike Chapman: (360) 786-7646, email form

* Representative Adam Bernbaum: (360) 786-7916, email form

* Representative Steve Tharinger: (360) 786-7904, email form

✍️ Redress Clallam County Commissioners:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field or forward after sending.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Monkeying Around

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Status quo comment

Rhetorical narrative

Monkeying around

Inspired by a comment from the April 20, 2026, Clallam County Watchdog article, Packed House, Unfiltered Answers: A Night That Defined the Divide on Public Safety:

The comment from Powdermonkey:

I’m all for civic engagement. A packed Grange Hall on a Thursday night is a minor miracle in local politics, and French showing up to a room that clearly wasn’t there to hug him deserves credit. But let’s not pretend the deck wasn’t stacked. The Calico Cat Club bills itself as “independent,” yet the only voice consistently amplified appears to be a Republican operative with a microphone. That’s not a coalition. That’s a dog wearing a cat costume.

A packed Grange Hall looks impressive until you remember the county has 78,000 people. That’s not a movement. That’s a well-attended matinee.

What really deserves applause though is the acrobatics required to call this a nonpartisan event while applying zero scrutiny to the hosts. Jeff can spend weeks dissecting the League of Women Voters like he’s dusting for fingerprints, but when it comes to the Calico Cats, the questions stop. No curiosity about funding, leadership, or agenda…and for a group pushing transparency, an oddly opaque web presence. “Independent,” apparently, just means “agrees with the Watchdog.”

And the hyperbole does a lot of heavy lifting. One tent and a couple of shopping carts becomes an “encampment.” Seriously? That kind of inflation isn’t accidental. It’s how a storyline gets built. Exaggeration is the fuel that keeps the outrage machine idling, and this coverage has been running that engine hot for a while now. The idea that it’s “just being dialed in” starts to look less like insight and more like a single lens applied over and over.

So yes, people showed up. Yes, they had things to say. But a curated room, amplified through a single lens, isn’t the same thing as broad public consensus. And selective scrutiny isn’t independence. It’s branding. Some of us can still tell the difference between a watchdog and a house pet that only barks at the neighbors it already doesn’t like.

🎙️ Podcast Breakdown: Comment Analysis + Counter

Opening

“Alright — so that’s the full comment. It’s well-written. It sounds reasonable, even measured at points.

But when you break it down, there are a few core ideas doing most of the work — and those ideas line up really closely with how people here in Clallam County tend to view anything that challenges the status quo.

So I’m going to pull those out piece by piece and look at what’s actually being argued — and whether it holds up against the article.”

🔍 Segment 1: “This wasn’t really representative”

📌 Core idea from the comment

* The event looked bigger or more neutral than it really was

* Turnout does not equal consensus

* Implication: this shouldn’t be treated as meaningful

Why this stands out

“This is really about legitimacy.

It’s not saying the event didn’t happen — it’s saying:👉 it doesn’t count in the way it’s being presented”

This is a subtle but powerful move:

* Acknowledge the event

* Then minimize its significance

Connect to local mindset in Clallam County

This reflects a very common standard:

* “If it’s not broadly representative, it’s not valid”

* “Small groups don’t speak for the community”

But here’s the tension:👉 Most local civic action starts small

So this standard can become:

“It doesn’t count unless it’s already big… and it can’t get big if it doesn’t count”

Where the argument falls short

* The article doesn’t claim “this represents everyone”

* It reports:

* A large turnout for a local event

* Direct engagement with officials

👉 The comment is pushing back on a claim the article isn’t actually making

🎯 Discussion questions

* “If 150 – 170 people show up locally, at what point does that become meaningful?”

* “Is ‘not representative’ a valid critique — or a way to dismiss participation?”

* “Do we apply that same standard to all civic activity?”

* “Who decides what level of participation is ‘enough’ to matter?”

🔍 Segment 2: “This group isn’t really independent”

📌 Core idea

* The organizing group is implied to have bias or alignment

* Suggestion: it’s not neutral, possibly agenda-driven

Why this stands out

“This is about credibility control.

If you can undermine the group:👉 You don’t have to engage with what they’re doing”

It shifts the focus from:

* What happenedto

* Who is allowed to present it

Connect to local mindset in Clallam County

There’s a strong instinct here toward:

* Skepticism of “grassroots” groups

* Concern about hidden agendas

* Fear of “astroturfing” or manufactured influence

That instinct isn’t wrong — but it often leads to:👉 default suspicion without evidence

Where the argument falls short

* The comment implies bias — but doesn’t demonstrate it

* No clear evidence of:

* coordination

* deception

* hidden structure

👉 It raises suspicion without substantiating it

This is what your outline called:

burden shifting

🎯 Discussion questions

* “What level of proof should be required before questioning a group’s legitimacy?”

* “Is implied bias enough — or does it need to be demonstrated?”

* “Do we apply the same scrutiny to all groups — or just the ones we disagree with?”

* “Is true ‘independence’ even realistic in local politics?”

🔍 Segment 3: “This is narrative framing / language manipulation”

📌 Excerpt idea

* Words like “encampment” are called out as exaggeration

* Suggestion: language is being used to inflate the issue

Why this stands out

“This is a framing battle.

It’s not arguing facts—it’s arguing:👉 how serious something is allowed to sound”

Language becomes the battleground for:

* legitimacy

* urgency

* public perception

Connect to local mindset in Clallam County

This reflects a familiar pattern:

* Preference for minimizing terminology

* Resistance to language that implies escalation

Because once something sounds serious:👉 it pressures response

Where the argument falls short

* It focuses on word choice, not underlying conditions

* It assumes exaggeration — but doesn’t establish a baseline for comparison

👉 It risks becoming:

“That sounds too serious, therefore it must be overstated”

🎯 Discussion questions

* “Does focusing on wording clarify reality — or avoid it?”

* “What defines when a term like ‘encampment’ is appropriate?”

* “Is this about accuracy — or about controlling tone?”

* “If the situation is serious, how should it be described?”

Encampment from Google:

An encampment is a temporary, often outdoor, collection of tents, makeshift shelters, or vehicles used for living, such as for military units, refugees, or people experiencing homelessness. It represents both a place and the act of setting up temporary shelter.

Key Characteristics:

* Temporary Nature: Structures are not intended for long-term permanent occupancy.

* Materials: Often built with tents, tarps, pallets, or scavenged materials.

* Context: Used in various contexts including military operations, protest movements, and as a response to lacking permanent housing

🔍 Segment 4: “This is amplified to drive outrage”

📌 Core idea

* Coverage emphasizes one viewpoint

* Suggests intentional amplification

* Implies emotional manipulation (outrage/fear)

Why this stands out

“This ties everything together:👉 the claim isn’t just bias — it’s intentional influence”

It suggests:

* Not just flawed reporting

* But strategic narrative shaping

Connect to local mindset in Clallam County

This reflects a broader psychological pattern:

* High sensitivity to manipulation

* Strong skepticism of media or messaging

* A tendency toward:“There’s an angle here”

Which can be useful — but also leads to:👉 assuming intent without proof

Where the argument falls short

* No clear evidence of intentional amplification strategy

* No comparison showing imbalance

* No demonstration of what was omitted

👉 It’s an inference — not a demonstrated conclusion

🎯 Discussion questions

* “What evidence would actually prove intentional amplification?”

* “Is highlighting one event the same as pushing a narrative?”

* “Do all forms of interpretation count as manipulation?”

* “When does healthy skepticism turn into just assuming something is wrong?”

🔍 Segment 5: Underlying Pattern — Selective Skepticism

📌 Big takeaway from the outline

“This is where everything connects.

The comment applies:

* high scrutiny

* high standards

* strong skepticism

But only in one direction.”

Why this matters

“This isn’t just about disagreement — it’s about how standards are applied”

Because:

* If skepticism is consistent → it’s analysis

* If it’s selective → it’s bias

Connect to local mindset in Clallam County

This reflects a broader dynamic:

* Familiar viewpoints → trusted

* Disruptive viewpoints → interrogated

So what feels like “critical thinking” can become:👉 gatekeeping of which narratives are allowed

🎯 Discussion questions

* “Are we applying the same level of scrutiny across the board?”

* “What are we being asked to believe without being shown proof?”

* “Is skepticism being used to understand — or to dismiss?”

* “Why do some groups get trust by default, while others have to earn it?”

🔚 Closing

“When you step back, the comment is doing something very specific:

* It questions legitimacy

* It questions independence

* It questions language

* And it questions intent

But in most cases, it’s doing that without directly engaging the specifics of the article itself

And a lot of those assumptions line up with views that are already common in Clallam County:

* skepticism of grassroots efforts

* discomfort with escalating problems

* and pushback on narrative shifts

But that pushback isn’t evenly applied — it tends to show up most when the message challenges the status quo.

So the real question is:

👉 Are these critiques about the article itself?👉 Or about the fact that it doesn’t fit the narrative people are used to?”

“In Clallam County, speaking out should be the core of civic life — but too often, it isn’t. Status quo narratives dominate when only a few voices show up, and not enough people are willing to challenge them in public spaces like town halls.

What matters is that people did speak up — directly, in public, knowing full well that in a small community, consequences and retaliation aren’t just imagined, they’re real. That kind of participation takes genuine courage.

And it matters even more because silence has weight. When fewer people speak, the loudest narratives fill the space by default.

So the real issue isn’t whether people should speak — it’s why more people don’t, and what it means for a community when only a few are willing to.”

My OMC Emergency

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Surprise surgery

OMC emergency

One patient’s story

First, about the YouTube Media section from my article ’The Cat’s Meow: A Written Interview’.

I shared a news clip and wrote:

A construction company in Pierce County with a long history of violations has made life harder for clients by not finishing the work after getting paid.

Visit the WA State Dept. of Labor & Industries webpage Verify a Contractor, Tradesperson or Business to learn how to check on a contractor for safety violations, lawsuits against bond, etc., before hiring them. (Consumer tip: A good contractor is never offended by people doing their due diligence)

Question for Strait Shooter John — Does it offend you if clients/potential clients tell you they have checked on your business through the state? Do you encourage consumers to do that as well?

ChatGPT gleaned information from the April 21, 2026, Clallam County Watchdog article OMC’s Patient Scores Tell a Story Leadership Won’t.

For this podcast, Strait Shooter will be reading the questions.

🎙️ Podcast Outline: “Inside Olympic Medical Center: Experience vs. Accountability”

🔹 Segment 1: Opening & Context

Co-host prompts:

* “Let’s start at the beginning—what was going on before you even went to the hospital?”

* “At what point did it shift from ‘this might pass’ to ‘we need to go now’?”

* “Why Olympic Medical Center specifically? Was it proximity, urgency, or something else?”

🔹 Segment 2: First Contact & Intake Experience

Article themes: Patient experience scores often hinge on first impressions. First contact shapes trust in care. Rural hospitals rely heavily on reputation and word-of-mouth

Co-host prompts:

* “The Clallam County Watchdog article talks about patient satisfaction scores—how did your intake experience compare to what you’d expect?”

* “Did you feel listened to right away?”

* “How long did it take before someone took your pain seriously?”

Follow-ups:

* “Was communication clear or confusing?”

* “Did you feel like you were ‘in the system’ or just waiting in it?”

🔹 Segment 3: Diagnosis & Decision-Making

Article themes: Quality metrics vs real clinical experience.

Co-host prompts:

* “Walk me through how they figured out it was appendicitis—was it quick, or did it take time?”

* “Did you feel confident in the diagnosis process?”

* “Were tests explained to you, or did things just happen?”

Tie to article concerns:

* “The article raises concerns about quality indicators—did anything feel rushed, delayed, or uncertain during diagnosis?”

Follow-ups:

* “Did you feel like you could ask questions?”

* “Were risks and next steps clearly communicated?”

🔹 Segment 4: Surgery & Care Quality

Article themes: Outcomes, staffing, and care consistency.

Co-host prompts:

* “What do you remember about the lead-up to surgery?”

* “Did you meet the surgeon beforehand? Did you feel confident going in?”

* “How would you describe the level of care from the medical team overall?”

Tie to article:

* “There’s been scrutiny around care quality—did anything stand out as especially good or concerning?”

* “Did you ever feel unsafe or unsure about what was happening?”

Follow-ups:

* “How coordinated did the staff seem?”

* “Did it feel like a well-run system or more fragmented?”

🔹 Segment 5: Post-Op Care & Recovery Experience

Article themes: Patient satisfaction often drops in follow-up and communication.

Co-host prompts:

* “How was the recovery process inside the hospital?”

* “Were nurses attentive and responsive?”

* “Did you feel like your pain and needs were managed well?”

Tie to article:

* “The Watchdog piece suggests patient experience scores tell a deeper story—did your post-op experience align with that idea?”

Follow-ups:

* “How was discharge handled?”

* “Did you leave feeling informed and supported?”

🔹 Segment 6: Communication, Transparency & Trust

Core theme from article: Trust in local healthcare systems.

Co-host prompts:

* “Did you feel like you were getting the full picture throughout your stay?”

* “Were there moments where communication broke down?”

* “How transparent did the hospital feel overall?”

Zoom-out question:

* “After reading the article, did anything click for you about your experience?”

🔹 Segment 7: Community Impact & Why This Matters

Shift from personal → community

Co-host prompts:

* “For people living in Port Angeles and Clallam County, this is the hospital—how does that shape how you think about your experience?”

* “Do you think concerns raised by the Clallam County Watchdog are being taken seriously enough?”

* “What’s at stake if these issues aren’t addressed?”

🔹 Segment 8: Reflection — Experience vs Reporting

Bring it all together

Co-host prompts:

* “After everything you went through, how does your personal experience compare to what the article describes?”

* “Did anything surprise you when reading it?”

* “Would you characterize your experience as positive, negative, or mixed?”

Push for nuance:

* “Is it possible for both things to be true—good individual care but systemic concerns?”

* “Where do you land now in terms of trust in Olympic Medical Center?”

🔹 Segment 9: Closing Thoughts

Co-host prompts:

* “What would you want someone to know if they might end up there tomorrow?”

* “If hospital leadership were listening, what would you say?”

* “Would you go back if you had another emergency?”

Friday reminder — new Strait Shooter Friday edition.

Saturday podcast — social media Saturday; discussing status quo comments on CC Watchdog about the April 16th public safety town hall, as well as other status quo views expressed in local social media.

Thank you everyone for your care and concern for my post-op healing, and for listening and making this podcast part of your day; have a great Friday the 24th!

YouTube Media:

What was on our TV during the podcast:

The Micro Machines Guy: Retro commercial from GenX childhood featuring the ‘fast talker’ Micro Machines guy:

Thank you for listening, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

Don’t miss the best — and only — satirical news in Clallam County. This week’s 100% legitimate reporting covers the local library fundraiser, the proposed seagull integration strategy, and a celebration of the unending homelessness plan. The latest Friday edition shoots into inboxes at 6:03 this morning!

Clallam County Letters:

New issues are published at 6am every Monday and Thursday.

✍️ Now Accepting Rejected Letters to Local Newspapers:

Have you had a letter to the editor rejected from the Sequim Gazette or the Peninsula Daily News? Clallam County Letters will publish it.

While this blog is focused on letters to elected officials and government, it is also a platform for the silenced, unheard, and ignored voices of Clallam County residents.

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

✍️ Redress State Legislators in District 24:

* Senator Mike Chapman: (360) 786-7646, email form

* Representative Adam Bernbaum: (360) 786-7916, email form

* Representative Steve Tharinger: (360) 786-7904, email form

✍️ Redress Clallam County Commissioners:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field or forward after sending.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

The Town Hall Takedown

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Citizen voices

The good, the bad, the booing

What was the result?

First, we addressed a question from Eve in the comments of last Saturday’s podcast, Connecting the Issues and Defining Responsibility:

Question for both of you: As former users of Marijuana, do you feel that the legalization of it has proven to be a gateway to hard/illegal drug use?

The Takedown:

“Last night, we attended a local town hall focused on public safety—a topic that’s been front and center in our community. The discussion covered a wide range of issues, including homelessness, vagrancy, repeat offenders, open drug use, and ongoing concerns about limited funding for services.

What stood out wasn’t just the topics themselves, but how differently they were framed—depending on whether you were hearing from residents, officials, or advocates. So today, we’re breaking down what we heard, what made sense, what didn’t, and what—if anything—comes next.

This isn’t just a recap. It’s a closer look at how these conversations are happening in real time, and what they reveal about the challenges the county and cities are trying to solve.”

Opening / Big Picture

* What were your overall impressions walking into the town hall, and did they change by the end?

* Who seemed to be the primary audience—residents, officials, activists—and how did that shape the tone?

* Did the event feel solution-oriented, or more like a space for airing frustrations?

Vagrancy & Public Presence

* How was “vagrancy” defined or discussed—was there clarity or mostly emotional language?

* Did speakers distinguish between nuisance behavior and broader social issues?

* What kinds of solutions were proposed, and did any seem realistic or actionable?

Homelessness

* Was homelessness framed more as a humanitarian issue, a public safety issue, or both?

* Did anyone present data or was it mostly anecdotal?

* What gaps did you notice between what officials said and what residents expressed?

* Were there any innovative or surprising approaches mentioned?

Repeat Offenders

* How did speakers describe the issue of repeat offenders—system failure, policy problem, or something else?

* Did anyone explain why repeat offenses are happening (e.g., legal constraints, lack of services)?

* Were there concrete proposals to address this, or mostly general concerns?

Open Drug Usage

* How openly was drug use discussed, and did it dominate the conversation?

* Were harm-reduction strategies brought up, or was the focus more on enforcement?

* Did the discussion lean toward public health solutions or criminal justice responses?

Lack of Funding for Services

* What specific services were described as underfunded?

* Did officials explain why funding is lacking (budget priorities, policy limits, etc.)?

* Were there disagreements about how money should be allocated?

* Did anyone propose new funding ideas or reallocation strategies?

Tension & Dynamics

* Where did you notice the biggest points of tension or disagreement?

* Did any speakers stand out as especially persuasive or out of touch?

* How well did officials respond to community concerns—directly or evasively?

Highlights

* What were the most memorable or impactful moments of the night?

* Was there a statement or exchange that really captured the core issues?

* Did anything genuinely shift your perspective?

Outcomes & Takeaways

* Was there a clear conclusion or action plan presented at the end?

* Did attendees leave with a sense of progress, or more uncertainty?

* What, if anything, will actually change as a result of this town hall?

* What should listeners take away from this event if they didn’t attend?

Closing Reflection

* If you could ask one follow-up question to the organizers or officials, what would it be?

* What would a productive version of this town hall have looked like?

The Conclusion:

“At the end of the night, it’s fair to ask: what actually came out of this? Town halls like this are meant to surface concerns and move toward solutions—but whether that happened here is still an open question.

There were clearly strong opinions, real frustrations, and some attempts at answers—but also gaps, tensions, and a sense that many of these issues are far from settled.

For us, the biggest takeaway is that public safety isn’t a single issue—it’s a collection of overlapping challenges that don’t have easy fixes. And how those challenges are framed—whether as enforcement problems, public health issues, or funding gaps—shapes the kinds of solutions that even get considered.

We’ll be watching to see whether anything concrete follows this discussion. In the meantime, conversations like this are worth paying attention to—not just for what’s said, but for what’s left unsaid.

And we’d love to hear from you—what would you want addressed if you were in that room?”

What Next:

Prosecutor Mark Nichols gave the reminder that court is open for the public to attend:

People can also attend open court proceedings via Zoom:

From the Assessor to the WSU Extension, redress local government through the Clallam County Staff Directory:

Get your emails to local, state, and federal officials published in Clallam County Letters for others to read; all personal information is redacted. Add my email clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC field, or forward the email to me after sending it.

Start a blog to make your voice heard by more people. Read The Watchdog in the Arena for the Watchdog Blog Starter Checklist and free blogging platforms other than Substack.

Informative comments, experiences, and suggestions shouldn’t be reserved just for town hall events and elected officials. Utilize modern tools — blogs, podcasts, videos, social media — to be heard by more people in more places.

YouTube Media:

What we had on our TV during the podcast:

Behind Sanctuary Lines: My latest briefing video on my YouTube channel. I review the 4/16/26 CC Watchdog article Tonight: The Stories They Can’t Ignore — Public Safety Town Hall.

Thank you for listening, sharing & subscribing!

Sequim Monitor:

Two new professionally produced videos on YouTube from Sequim Government highlight the Sequim Police Department, and the Department of Community and Economic Development.

Strait Shooter:

Get your fill of satire this weekend with the latest news that is nothing but the truth, kind of. This week Port Angeles rolls out trash report cards as officials master the art of saying less, doing less, and aiming higher.

Clallam County Letters:

Now accepting rejected letters to the editor from local newspapers in Clallam County. Please include the email exchange of the submitted letter and the rejection response from the newspaper. Personal information will be redacted.

Find out what people are writing to elected officials and bureaucrats — and what was rejected from local newspapers.

New issues are published at 6am every Monday and Thursday.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Library Levy Discussion

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Shifting services

Taxing the people for more

Lowering standards

ChatGPT gleaned information from the Clallam County Watchdog article Before You Vote on the Library Levy, Here’s What You Should Know.

🔹 Introduction (Facts Only)

* A proposed library levy would increase the tax rate by about 60%, from $0.28 to $0.45 per $1,000 of assessed property value

* The measure is for the North Olympic Library System (NOLS)

* The library system is largely taxpayer-funded

* Reported trends since 2018:

* Visits down about 30%

* Circulation down about 20%

* Computer use down about 50%

* During that same period, the budget has increased by over 60%, largely due to staffing costs

* Libraries have expanded services beyond traditional book lending to include community programs, outreach, and other public services

Transition into Section 1: “So I think the place to start is just… what is a library supposed to be at this point?”

🔹 Section 1: What Is a Library Now?

Pros:

* Adapting to modern needs

* Free public space, internet access, community support

* Helps underserved populations

Cons:

* Mission drift

* Becoming too broad / unfocused

* Not what some taxpayers expect

Why it matters:

* Defines what people are funding

* Shapes long-term identity of libraries

Discussion questions:

* What should a library be in 2026?

* Is expanding beyond books a strength or a distraction?

* Where should the line be?

Transition to Section 2: “And I think that connects directly to the next issue—which is how people are actually using libraries now…”

🔹 Section 2: Usage vs Funding

Pros:

* Digital usage rising (ebooks, audiobooks, online tools)

* Physical visits don’t tell the whole story

* Still essential for some populations

Cons:

* Visits ↓ ~30%, circulation ↓ ~20%, computer use ↓ ~50%

* Budget ↑ ~60%

* Questions about efficiency

Why it matters:

* People expect spending to reflect value

* Raises question of how to measure success

Discussion questions:

* Should funding go up if physical usage is down?

* What counts as “library use” today?

* Do digital services justify higher costs?

Transition to Section 3: “But regardless of how you measure it, the part people are definitely going to feel is the tax increase itself…”

🔹 Section 3: The Tax Increase

Pros:

* Investment in community resource

* Maintains or expands services

* Libraries relatively low-cost compared to other services

Cons:

* ~60% increase is significant

* Adds to overall tax burden

* Timing may feel tough for many households

Why it matters:

* Direct financial impact

* Forces prioritization

Discussion questions:

* Would you vote for a 60% increase?

* How do you weigh this against other needs?

* Is now the right time?

Transition to Section 4: “And I think when people hear ‘tax increase,’ the next question is always—where is that money actually going?”

🔹 Section 4: Spending Priorities & Transparency

Pros:

* Staffing and programming can improve services

* Outreach increases impact

* Modern libraries require new roles

Cons:

* Concerns about administrative growth / consulting

* Misalignment with core services

* Transparency questions

Why it matters:

* Trust in how money is used

* Affects willingness to approve funding

Discussion questions:

* What should libraries prioritize?

* How transparent should they be?

* Are current priorities aligned with public expectations?

Transition to Section 5: “And zooming out a bit, this really isn’t just about libraries—it’s part of a bigger trend…”

🔹 Section 5: Bigger Picture — Role of Public Institutions

Pros:

* Flexible institutions can meet real needs

* Libraries can fill community gaps

* Expanding roles may increase overall impact

Cons:

* Risk of overreach

* Blurred responsibilities

* May dilute effectiveness

Why it matters:

* Reflects broader views on government’s role

* Influences future public spending decisions

Discussion questions:

* Should libraries expand beyond traditional roles?

* Where’s the line between support and overreach?

* Are they solving problems or compensating for other failures?

Transition to Final Questions: “So if you step back from all of that, I think it leaves a few big-picture questions…”

🔹 Final Question Segment (Open-ended, reflective)

* What do you personally want from a library?

* What would make this levy feel “worth it” to you?

* Do you trust the institution to use additional funding well?

* Is this really about libraries—or about how communities are changing?

* If this doesn’t pass, what should happen instead?

Transition to Conclusion: “And I think that’s really what this comes down to…”

🔹 Conclusion

Key points:

* This is not just a yes/no funding decision—it sets direction

* People may agree on supporting libraries but disagree on their role

* The definition of “library” is shifting

Closing thought ideas:

* “Same word—‘library’—but people mean very different things”

* “You’re not just funding a service, you’re shaping what it becomes”

Saturday podcast will be the Town Hall Takedown!

Thank you everyone for the caring comments, emails, and prayers. Have a great Friday the 17th!

YouTube Media:

What we had on our TV during the podcast:

The Wonder of Robots: Japan has learned how to incorporate robots with human services. Not sure if it’s more cost efficient, but one thing is certain — robots don’t need benefits. LOL.

Going Off Track: From library books to Narcan; and from LGB to MMIWG2SLGBTQQIA+, the causes are going way off track.

DIY Fails: I have a hunch some of these projects were attempted with rented tools. If the library rents tools, this is what could happen to some of those tools — and it will be up to the taxpayers to replace/repair broken tools.

Thank you for listening, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

Don’t miss the best — and only — satirical news in Clallam County. This week Port Angeles rolls out trash report cards as officials master the art of saying less, doing less, and aiming higher. The latest Friday edition shoots into inboxes at 6:03 this morning!

Clallam County Letters:

Find out what people are writing to elected officials and bureaucrats — and what was rejected from local newspapers.

New issues are published at 6am every Monday and Thursday.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Connecting the Issues and Defining Responsibility

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

So many issues

Does anything connect them?

Striking at the root

Talking points were created with ChatGPT and gleaned from:

* Clallam County Watchdog

* Clallam County Letters

* The Jon Hamilton Substack ‘From the Council Seat - Port Angeles’:

Marolee Smith in Port Angeles recently wrote about homelessness as well and it is worth reading:

“There are a thousand hacking at the branches of evil to one who is striking at the root,” Henry David Thoreau (Walden)

🎙️ Podcast Series: Three Sides of the Same Coin: Housing, Homelessness, Addiction—and Personal Responsibility in Clallam County

🎧 EPISODE 2: Connecting the Issues and Defining Responsibility

🎙️ EPISODE 2 INTRO

Connecting the Issues and Defining Responsibility

Last episode, we talked about housing affordability, homelessness, and drug addiction—and why people in Clallam County see these issues so differently.

We also started to connect the dots: these aren’t separate problems. They feed into each other.

In this episode, we’ll take that a step further—looking at how these issues show up in everyday situations like panhandling, and where the line falls between government responsibility and personal responsibility.

Let’s get into it.

🪙 V. Panhandling and Public Response

The Issue

Panhandling is a visible and immediate way the public interacts with homelessness and addiction. Many residents encounter individuals asking for money on streets, intersections, or outside businesses.

The Divide

* Some see giving money as an act of compassion and direct help

* Others believe it can unintentionally enable harmful behaviors, particularly when addiction is involved

Why It Matters

Panhandling raises questions about how individual actions affect broader outcomes. Direct giving may provide short-term relief, but it may also bypass systems designed to provide structured support or treatment.

💬 Questions to Drive Discussion

* Does giving money to panhandlers help—or does it sometimes enable harmful cycles?

* What responsibility do individuals have in how they choose to help?

* Are there more effective ways for community members to respond that encourage accountability and recovery?

🔗 VI. How It All Connects

The Issue

Housing affordability, homelessness, addiction, and even panhandling are not separate problems—they reinforce each other.

The Divide

* Some look for a single root cause (housing, addiction, policy failure)

* Others see a complex, interconnected system with no single point of failure

Why It Matters

When problems are interconnected, isolated solutions are less effective. Addressing only one piece may not produce lasting change.

💬 Questions to Drive Discussion

* Is it realistic to focus on one root cause, or do solutions need to address everything together?

* Are current approaches too fragmented?

* How much responsibility lies with systems versus individuals within that system?

⚖️ VII. Government Limits and Personal Responsibility

The Issue

There is an ongoing question about what government can realistically solve versus what depends on individual choices and behavior.

The Divide

* Some believe stronger government intervention is the key to progress

* Others believe solutions are limited without greater personal responsibility and accountability

Why It Matters

Long-term success likely depends on both effective systems and individual participation. Without one, the other may fall short.

💬 Questions to Drive Discussion

* Where should the line be between public support and personal responsibility?

* Are current systems encouraging independence—or dependence?

* What expectations should be placed on individuals in exchange for support?

🎯 VIII. Closing Perspective

The Issue

These challenges are complex, interconnected, and unlikely to be solved with a single approach.

The Divide

Different perspectives will continue to exist—and may always exist—based on values, priorities, and lived experience.

Why It Matters

Progress depends on recognizing both realities:

* Systems need to function effectively

* Individuals need to take responsibility where they are able

💬 Final Questions

* What would a balanced solution look like in Clallam County?

* What responsibility do you think you personally have in shaping that outcome?

* How can a community support people in need without removing accountability?

Podcast Mentions:

Learn about the bail system in Washington State and how proposed changes could make places like Clallam County even worse. The State Supreme Court is accepting public comment on the issue through April 30, 2026:

No Pity for Panhandling Bumper Sticker:

Now available in my Zazzle shop here. Design can be edited to change colors and font styles; the text can be edited too. Design can also be transferred to other products available through Zazzle. Click the ‘Edit the Design’ button on the order page to customize sticker.

Feel free to use the slogan to create stickers or other products at local sign shops.

For full disclosure, I receive a small royalty (5%) from each sticker.

Lived Experience Interviews:

One of the best ways to learn is from people who have lived through something. These three interviews from Jake Seegers are with people who have lived through drug addiction and came out better — and not because of harm reduction:

Learn about The Gabriel Plan and the “Ten Points to Recover Our Nation” from the author, Ginny Burton, a survivor with lived experience who turned her life around and speaks out on the policies that are failing the people who need help the most. Interview from ChangeWashington.org:

YouTube Media:

What we had on our TV during the podcast:

John Stossel on Panhandling Freeloaders: Must watch — more evidence that panhandling enables addiction and also funds entitled people who think they shouldn’t have to work:

Thank you for listening, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

Don’t miss the best — and only — satirical news in Clallam County. Check out the latest Friday Spin Edition!

Town Hall on Public Safety Countdown:

5 days to go until April 16th. Click the Town Hall Google Calendar Invite link to add the event to personal calendars:

Learn about the Calico Cat Club, the Peoples Forum, and how to get involved:

Clallam County Letters:

Find out what people are writing to elected officials and bureaucrats — and what was rejected from local newspapers.

New issues are published at 6am every Monday and Thursday.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Housing, Homelessness, Addiction — and Personal Responsibility in Clallam County

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Issues that divide

Are solutions possible?

Owning the problems

Talking points were created with ChatGPT and gleaned from:

* Clallam County Watchdog

* Clallam County Letters

* The Jon Hamilton Substack ‘From the Council Seat - Port Angeles’:

Marolee Smith in Port Angeles recently wrote about homelessness as well and it is worth reading:

🎙️ Podcast Series: Three Sides of the Same Coin: Housing, Homelessness, Addiction—and Personal Responsibility in Clallam County

🎧 EPISODE 1: Understanding the Issues and the Divides

🧭 I. Framing the Conversation

The Issue

Clallam County continues to grapple with housing affordability, homelessness, and drug addiction—three issues that are often discussed separately but are deeply connected.

The Divide

Local commentary reflects two broad perspectives:

* One emphasizes government inefficiency, lack of accountability, and frustration with visible outcomes

* The other emphasizes complexity, limited resources, and systemic constraints

Why It Matters

If people fundamentally disagree on what the problem is, they will also disagree on solutions. And without some shared understanding, progress becomes difficult.

💬 Questions to Drive Discussion

* Are disagreements in this community more about facts—or about values and expectations?

* How much responsibility should fall on systems versus individuals?

🏠 II. Housing Affordability

The Issue

Housing costs have risen faster than local incomes, leaving many residents cost-burdened. At the same time, housing supply remains limited, making it difficult for prices to stabilize.

The Divide

* One side argues that regulations—zoning, permitting, resistance to density—are restricting supply

* The other points to broader structural challenges like lower wages, geography, and limited development capacity

Why It Matters

Housing is the foundation. When people can’t afford housing, the risk of instability—and eventually homelessness—increases.

💬 Questions to Drive Discussion

* Should the focus be on increasing supply, or removing regulatory barriers?

* To what extent should individuals adjust their expectations—relocating, downsizing, or sharing housing?

* Is affordable housing primarily a government responsibility, or partly an individual one?

Here’s a 2026 ranking of all 50 U.S. states by typical housing costs (median home value) — from highest housing costs → lowest housing costs, based on the latest data from World Population Review (median home values in 2024 dollars). (World Population Review)

🏡 Highest to Lowest Housing Costs (Median Home Values)

* Hawaii – highest median home price (~$850,343)

* California (~$734,700)

* Massachusetts (~$628,998)

* Washington (~$591,888)

* Colorado (~$539,400)

* New Jersey (~$535,469)

* Oregon (~$495,844)

* Utah (~$489,400)

* New Hampshire (~$483,940)

* New York (~$481,773)

* Rhode Island (~$469,972)

* Nevada (~$435,400)

* Maryland (~$419,900)

* Connecticut (~$366,900)

* Florida (~$359,000)

* Alaska (~$352,900)

* Delaware (~$352,000)

* Idaho (~$418,600)

* Virginia (~$383,700)

* Montana (~$375,800)

* Arizona (~$394,500)

* Maine (~$296,600)

* Minnesota (~$329,300)

* Vermont (~$316,600)

* Wyoming (~$309,700)

* North Carolina (~$288,900)

* Tennessee (~$286,700)

* Texas (~$283,800)

* Wisconsin (~$266,500)

* Illinois (~$263,300)

* South Carolina (~$259,000)

* South Dakota (~$257,400)

* Pennsylvania (~$254,500)

* North Dakota (~$249,900)

* New Mexico (~$248,100)

* Nebraska (~$238,600)

* Michigan (~$231,600)

* Missouri (~$230,300)

* Indiana (~$218,200)

* Kansas (~$217,200)

* Louisiana (~$216,500)

* Ohio (~$214,800)

* Alabama (~$209,900)

* Iowa (~$208,000)

* Kentucky (~$205,600)

* Oklahoma (~$199,800)

* Arkansas (~$188,000)

* Mississippi (~$169,800)

* West Virginia (~$162,600)

📊 Note: This ranking uses median home values statewide, which reflect overall housing cost differences. Local market variations (city vs. rural) can still be substantial within states. (World Population Review)

🏕️ III. Homelessness

The Issue

Homelessness is the most visible manifestation of these challenges, ranging from temporary displacement to chronic, long-term instability.

The Divide

* Some believe increased spending has not produced meaningful results and lacks accountability

* Others argue the system is under-resourced, with not enough shelter, housing, or long-term support

Why It Matters

Homelessness affects both individuals experiencing it and the broader community, including public spaces, safety concerns, and quality of life.

💬 Questions to Drive Discussion

* What should success look like—fewer visible encampments, or long-term housing stability?

* Should enforcement tools play a larger role alongside services?

* What level of personal responsibility should be expected in accepting help or following rules?

💊 IV. Drug Addiction

The Issue

Substance use—especially fentanyl and methamphetamine—plays a major role in housing instability and homelessness, often creating cycles that are difficult to break.

The Divide

* Some argue current approaches rely too heavily on harm reduction without enough emphasis on treatment or accountability

* Others argue treatment is not accessible or robust enough to meet demand

Why It Matters

Addiction complicates every other issue—making it harder to maintain employment, housing, and long-term stability.

💬 Questions to Drive Discussion

* Should addiction be treated primarily as a health issue, a legal issue, or both?

* How much responsibility does an individual have in seeking and committing to recovery?

* At what point should accountability be required as part of receiving help?

🎯 Episode 1 Closing Transition

We’ve talked about the core issues—housing, homelessness, and addiction—and the different ways people in this community see them.

But there’s another piece of this conversation that shows up in everyday life—something most people encounter directly—and that’s how individuals respond in the moment, especially when it comes to panhandling.

In the next episode, we’ll look at how these issues connect even more closely, including the role of public response, and take a deeper dive into the balance between government action and personal responsibility.

👉 Tune in to Episode 2 for the full picture and where these conversations lead.

Friday Reminders: Next Thursday the 16th is the Town Hall for Public Safety event starting at 6:30pm. The sheriff, prosecutor, commissioner mike french, and port angeles chief of police will be on the panel. Free to attend, no proof of citizenship required, so maybe everyone from the league of women voters will show up.

Thank you for listening and making this podcast part of your day.

Have a great Friday the 10th, everyone!

Lived Experience:

YouTube Media:

What we had on our TV during the podcast:

Thank you for listening, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

Don’t miss the best — and only — satirical news in Clallam County. The latest Friday edition shoots into inboxes at 6:03 this morning!

Town Hall on Public Safety Countdown:

6 days to go until April 16th. Click the Town Hall Google Calendar Invite link to add the event to personal calendars:

Learn about the Calico Cat Club, the Peoples Forum, and how to get involved:

Clallam County Letters:

Find out what people are writing to elected officials and bureaucrats — and what was rejected from local newspapers.

New issues are published at 6am every Monday and Thursday.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

The Watchdog in the Arena

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

A growing movement

One blog is the beginning

The watchdog effect

It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better.

The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.

“The Man in the Arena”

Citizenship in a Republic, a speech given by Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, at the Sorbonne in Paris, France, on April 23, 1910

One Voice, Big Impact: How Watchdog Blogs Shape Clallam County

Segment 1: The Power of One Voice

Talking Points:In a place like Clallam County, something unusual is happening: a single independent blog—Clallam County Watchdog—has become a meaningful force in public conversation. This isn’t a full newsroom. It’s started as one person consistently tracking local government, decisions, and issues that affect residents; and has grown into multiple contributors who submit stories and information.

Why It Matters:It challenges the assumption that accountability requires large institutions. Instead, it shows how access to digital tools and public records allows individuals to step into that role.

Example:Coverage ranges from local policy decisions to public spending concerns—topics traditionally handled by newspapers.

Questions to Discuss:

* What does it say about local media when one independent blog becomes a major source of scrutiny?

* Is this empowering—or a sign of a gap that shouldn’t exist?

Segment 2: Filling the Gaps Left by Legacy Media

Talking Points:A recurring theme in watchdog blogging is the question: “Where is the media?” In some cases, issues surface in blogs or community forums before traditional outlets pick them up—or they never do.

Why It Matters:Local journalism has shrunk in many communities. That creates blind spots where important decisions or incidents may not get widespread attention.

Examples:

* Coverage of public safety incidents or policy debates that don’t gain traction elsewhere

* Documentation of local meetings, public comments, and transparency concerns

* Discussions happening in Facebook groups instead of formal reporting channels

Questions to Discuss:

* Why might legacy media miss or avoid certain local stories?

* Is this about limited resources, or editorial priorities?

* Are watchdog blogs filling a need—or creating their own lane?

Segment 3: When Coverage Leads to Change

Talking Points:Watchdog blogs don’t just inform—they can trigger real-world outcomes. The pattern is simple but powerful: information leads to attention, which leads to action.

Why It Matters:It demonstrates that civic engagement often starts with awareness. Without visibility, even significant issues can quietly move forward.

Example:A proposal to rename the county courthouse gained traction after blog coverage raised awareness. Community members responded—attending meetings, submitting comments, and requesting records. Ultimately, officials reconsidered.

Key Insight:One person publishes → community pays attention → citizens act → government responds

Questions to Discuss:

* Would this issue have gained traction without that coverage?

* Does access to information naturally lead to engagement—or does it require the right framing?

Segment 4: Influence vs. Trust — The Double Edge

Talking Points:With influence comes complexity. Watchdog blogs often operate without traditional editorial structures, and many blend reporting with opinion or advocacy.

Why It Matters:Credibility becomes less about institutional backing and more about consistency, transparency, and accuracy—but that line can blur.

Examples:

* Posts that combine documented facts with interpretation

* Public reactions that range from strong support to skepticism about bias

Questions to Discuss:

* Does credibility come from the institution—or the information itself?

* Should independent bloggers follow traditional journalistic standards?

* Can a single voice inform a community while also unintentionally polarizing it?

Segment 5: One Blog vs. Many — What Works Best?

Talking Points:There’s a bigger structural question here: Is it better to have one strong watchdog blog—or many?

Why It Matters:This isn’t just about content—it’s about the health of the local information ecosystem.

One Strong Blog — Pros & Cons:

* Clear voice, easy to follow, builds trust

* But limited coverage and vulnerable if it disappears

Multiple Blogs — Pros & Cons:

* Broader coverage, multiple perspectives, built-in accountability

* But can create confusion, uneven quality, or conflicting narratives

Key Insight:The strongest system isn’t one or many—it’s balance.

Ideal Ecosystem:

* A few credible watchdog blogs

* Some traditional media presence

* Active public participation

Questions to Discuss:

* Is one trusted source better than several competing ones?

* Do multiple voices strengthen accountability—or dilute it?

* How do people decide who to trust?

Segment 6: Why One Person Still Matters

Talking Points:Even in a complex ecosystem, the role of one individual remains powerful. Digital platforms have lowered the barrier to entry for accountability work.

Why It Matters:It reinforces that civic impact isn’t limited to professionals—persistence and access to information can be enough.

Examples:

* Using public records to uncover decisions

* Attending and documenting meetings others ignore

* Consistently following issues over time

Questions to Discuss:

* What makes an effective watchdog blogger?

* Could more individuals doing this improve accountability—or just add noise?

* What responsibility comes with having that kind of influence?

Segment 7: The Future of Local Accountability

Talking Points:As traditional newsrooms continue to shrink, communities are left to figure out what replaces them—or complements them.

Why It Matters:The future likely isn’t one model replacing another, but a mix of approaches working together.

Considerations:

* Potential collaboration between independent bloggers and traditional outlets

* Challenges like sustainability, time, and burnout

* The growing importance of media literacy among readers

Questions to Discuss:

* What would an ideal local media ecosystem look like in Clallam County?

* Should communities actively support independent watchdog efforts?

* What happens if no one steps into that role?

Closing: The Takeaway

Talking Points:Watchdog blogs—whether you agree with them or not—are proving that accountability doesn’t require a large institution.

Why It Matters:Attention, persistence, and a willingness to ask difficult questions can still shape outcomes.

Final Question:

* If one person can have this much impact, why aren’t more people doing it?

Optional Add-On Segment: Starting a Watchdog Blog

Talking Points:

* Choose a clear focus (schools, city council, housing, etc.)

* Use public records and open data

* Attend meetings and document what happens

* Balance building trust with growing an audience

Discussion Prompt:

* What would stop someone from starting—and what would help them succeed?

Why a Blog Beats Facebook for Watchdog Work

🔸 1. You Own Your Audience

On Substack:

* You build an email list you control

On Facebook:

* Your reach depends on the algorithm

* Followers ≠ guaranteed visibility

👉 If Facebook changes its algorithm, your audience can disappear overnight.

2. Your Work Doesn’t Get Buried

On Substack:

* Posts are archived, searchable, and easy to revisit

On Facebook:

* Posts vanish in fast-moving feeds

* Important investigations get lost within days

👉 Watchdog work needs permanence, not a 24-hour lifespan.

3. More Credibility, Less Noise

On Substack:

* Readers expect thoughtful, structured content

On Facebook:

* Your work sits next to memes, arguments, and misinformation

👉 A dedicated blog signals: this is serious information, not just a post.

4. Better for Accountability

On Substack:

* You can build ongoing coverage of an issue

* Link past reporting

* Track developments over time

On Facebook:

* Conversations are fragmented

* Hard to follow long-term stories

5. Direct Connection With Readers

On Substack:

* Posts go straight to inboxes

* Higher engagement and trust

On Facebook:

* You’re competing for attention constantly

🧭 Bottom Line

A platform like Substack lets one person:

* Publish consistently

* Build a loyal audience

* Create a permanent record of local issues

* Hold institutions accountable

While Facebook is useful for distribution, it’s a weak foundation for serious watchdog work.

Final Thought

If you care about what’s happening in Clallam County, you don’t need a newsroom to make an impact—just consistency, transparency, and a platform you control.

Watchdog Blog Starter Checklist

✅ 1. Define Your Focus

☐ Choose a specific local area (e.g., Clallam County)☐ Pick 1–3 core topics (government, schools, public safety, spending)☐ Write a simple mission statement (1–2 sentences)

✅ 2. Set Up Your Substack

☐ Create free account on Substack☐ Choose a clear, local name ☐ Add a short description (“Independent coverage of local decisions and accountability”)☐ Upload a basic logo or simple text header☐ Enable email subscriptions

✅ 3. Prepare Your First Content

☐ Write your first post: “What this blog is and why it exists”☐ Draft 2–3 follow-up posts (keep them simple):

* ☐ Meeting summary

* ☐ Local issue explainer

* ☐ Quick update or observation

☐ Keep posts clear, factual, and easy to read

✅ 4. Gather Information (Free Sources)

☐ Bookmark local government websites☐ Review meeting agendas and minutes weekly☐ Attend (or watch) public meetings☐ Take notes and document key points☐ Save links, screenshots, and sources

✅ 5. Build Credibility From Day One

☐ Separate facts vs. opinions clearly☐ Link to sources whenever possible☐ Avoid rumors or unverified claims☐ Correct mistakes publicly if needed☐ Stay focused on issues, not personal attacks

✅ 6. Publish Consistently

☐ Set a realistic schedule (1x per week is enough)☐ Keep posts short and focused☐ Prioritize consistency over perfection☐ Create simple headlines (clear > clever)

✅ 7. Share & Grow Your Audience

☐ Share each post on Facebook groups/pages☐ Ask readers to subscribe via email☐ Encourage tips and community input☐ Respond to comments thoughtfully

✅ 8. Stay Organized

☐ Keep a running list of story ideas☐ Track ongoing issues (follow-up posts)☐ Save all research and documents☐ Create categories (e.g., “Public Safety,” “County Budget”)

✅ 9. Think Long-Term

☐ Focus on building trust, not going viral☐ Develop a consistent voice and tone☐ Track impact (comments, shares, community response)☐ Avoid burnout—pace yourself

⚖️ Quick Reminder: Blog vs. Social Media

☐ Use Substack as your home base (you own your content + audience)☐ Use Facebook only as a distribution tool☐ Remember: posts on Facebook disappear—your blog builds a permanent record

🎯 Launch Goal (Simple & Achievable)

☐ Publish 3 posts☐ Get 10 email subscribers☐ Cover 1 real local issue clearly and accurately

🔹 Final Check

☐ Is your content clear?☐ Is it factual?☐ Is it useful to your community?

If yes → publish it.

Free Blogging Platforms (with URLs)

Easy, beginner-friendly platforms

* WordPress.com

* One of the most widely used platforms

* Free subdomain + templates

* Good for long-term growth and structured blogs

* Blogger

* Owned by Google, very simple setup

* Completely free with Blogspot domain

* Reliable and beginner-friendly

* Wix

* Drag-and-drop website + blog builder

* No technical skills required

* Free plan includes hosting

Writing-focused platforms

* Medium

* Built-in audience of readers

* Clean, distraction-free writing experience

* More like “social blogging” than a standalone site

* Substack

* Blog + email newsletter combined

* Great for building a subscriber list

* Simple and fast to launch

YouTube Media:

What we had on our TV during the podcast:

Local content on YouTube: From a Clallam County resident who wrote the lyrics and then used AI to create the music:

Attorney Andrew Branca shows a clip from CBS about fraud in California; done in the style similar to Nick Shirley, an independent investigator:

Essential watching on Easter, at least once in a lifetime: Fred Astaire and Judy Garland in ‘Easter Parade’:

Also worth watching at least once in a lifetime: Max von Sydow in ‘The Greatest Story Ever Told’, with an enjoyable cast for fans of older movies:

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Sequim Monitor:

Read about the news and alerts from the City of Sequim with opportunities for residents and businesses:

Town Hall on Public Safety Countdown:

13 days to go until April 16th. Click the Town Hall Google Calendar Invite link to add the event to personal calendars:

Learn about the Calico Cat Club, the Peoples Forum, and how to get involved:

Clallam County Letters:

Find out what people are writing to elected officials and bureaucrats — and what was rejected from local newspapers.

New issues are published every Monday and Thursday.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

A Pathetic Deflection

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Concerned citizen

Redressing their government

The response falls flat

This is from my Clallam County Letters Substack, Issue No. 31, published on April 2nd.

I posted this email from a resident and the reply they received from Clallam County Commissioner Mark Ozias.

There were some good comments about the response from Ozias, so I thought it would make for some good discussion.

I’m going to read both emails, first the one from the citizen, and then the response from Ozias. Then we’ll get into some ChatGPT talking points and discussion questions.

The Email Exchange:

subject: Accountability and Enforcement of Public Health Laws in Clallam County

Commissioners,

I am writing as a Clallam County resident to ask for clear accountability from both the Board of Health and Dr. Allison Berry regarding the ongoing public health and safety problems tied to unchecked outdoor living, drug use, waste accumulation, and environmental contamination throughout the county.

Washington law is explicit about your responsibilities. Under RCW 70.05.060, local boards of health are required to “supervise all matters pertaining to the preservation of the life and health of the people” and to ensure the “prevention, control, and abatement of nuisances detrimental to public health.” Likewise, RCW 70.05.070 requires the local Health Officer to enforce public health laws and to “take such action as is necessary to maintain health and sanitation” and to “control and abate nuisances.”

These conditions also meet the definition of a public health nuisance under RCW 7.48.120, which includes anything that endangers health or safety, offends decency, or renders others insecure in the use of public spaces.

Despite these clear statutory obligations, hazardous conditions—solid waste, human waste, drug‑use debris, and environmental contamination—continue to persist across the county. Residents, volunteers, and property owners are left to manage risks that fall squarely within the legal duties of the Board of Health and the Health Officer.

I am asking the Board to do the following:

• Acknowledge that these conditions constitute public health nuisances under state law. • Explain why enforcement authority under RCW 70.05.060 and RCW 70.05.070 is not being used consistently. • Hold Dr. Allison Berry accountable for fulfilling her statutory responsibilities as Health Officer. • Provide a clear plan outlining what actions will be taken, on what timeline, and with what measurable outcomes.

We deserve a functioning public health system—one that enforces existing laws, protects our environment, and ensures that families can safely use public spaces. I urge you to take immediate, lawful action to restore public health and safety in our community.

Sincerely,

[Redacted]

Response from Ozias:

Subject: Accountability and enforcement of public health laws

[Redacted],

Thank you for writing. What Dr. Berry has said, and I agree, is that “the primary drivers of homelessness in this county and this country are a rapid rise in the cost of living combined with massive cuts to the social safety net at the federal and to a lesser extent state level.” Neither Dr. Berry nor the County Commissioners have control over these trends, though we sure are working hard to deal with them.

Regarding the authorities of the public health officer, when a solid waste complaint is made then our Environmental Health team investigates and then notifies the owner of the property. The owner is then given a reasonable time to remediate that problem. If they do not, then fines accrue. Dr. Berry is not a police officer and cannot arrest or forcibly move anyone, and would not have the legal authority to pursue that without the above process. In the case of people living homeless on someone else’s land, the enforcement action would be against the owner, not the person camping. The owner would then need to move the person along.

For a number of years the county utilized our CREW (chain gang) to assist with significant environmental cleanups. We have been chronically understaffed the past five years to the point where these efforts have been precluded, but I am happy to report that we are finally on track to be fully-staffed with Corrections Deputies and I hope to see this important service pick back up as soon as capacity allows. I am certainly open to consideration of other targeted cleanup strategies coordinated by a local municipality.

I agree with your point that we need a functioning public health system, but unfortunately after seeing meaningful state investment in public health after COVID we are now seeing those investments being peeled away. Furthermore the federal government has decimated the public safety net, most recently through the “Big Beautiful Bill Act” that will cause something like 10 million people across America to lose their health insurance while at the same time losing vital supports like SNAP benefits and reducing investments in housing supports. Inadequate Medicaid reimbursement rates only exacerbate the challenge, especially in rural communities.

Sincerely,

Mark Ozias

Clallam County Commissioner

ChatGPT Talking Points:

1) What the Letter Is About (Simple Terms)

* A resident is calling out the county for not dealing with visible problems:

* Trash, human waste, drug use, unsafe public spaces

* They’re pointing to state law and saying:

* “You’re required to handle this — why aren’t you?”

* They want:

* Acknowledgment it’s a real public health issue

* Enforcement of existing laws

* Accountability from leadership

* A clear plan with timelines

What Actually Matters

* This isn’t just a complaint — it’s a challenge to whether the county is doing its job

* The resident is framing it as a legal failure, not just a policy disagreement

Why People Care

* These issues are visible and affect everyday life

* People feel like rules exist but aren’t being enforced

Discussion Questions

* Is this a reasonable expectation from a resident?

* Should local government be held strictly to the laws cited here?

* What kind of response would actually satisfy this concern?

2) What the Commissioner’s Response Says

* Points to root causes:

* Rising cost of living

* Cuts to the social safety net

* Explains the process:

* Complaint → notify property owner → time to fix → fines

* Emphasizes limits:

* Health officer isn’t law enforcement

* Can’t just remove people

* Mentions:

* Staffing shortages

* Reduced funding from state/federal levels

What Actually Matters

* The response focuses on:

* Why the problem exists

* How the system works

* It does not clearly address:

* What will change moving forward

Why People Care

* People want results, not process explanations

* There’s a gap between what residents see and what leadership is describing

Discussion Questions

* Does this response answer the original concern?

* Is explaining limitations enough for someone in leadership?

* What’s missing from this response?

3) Short Analysis: Deflection vs Accountability

* Some acknowledgment:

* Mentions staffing shortages

* Admits the system isn’t fully functioning

* But most of the response:

* Shifts responsibility to larger forces (federal/state/economics)

* Avoids committing to specific actions

Plain-English takeaway:

* The question was about local enforcement

* The answer focused on external causes

What Actually Matters

* Local officials are expected to take ownership, even when problems are complex

Why People Care

* When leadership sounds like it lacks control, trust drops quickly

Discussion Questions

* At what point does explanation become deflection?

* Should local leaders focus more on solutions than causes?

* What would a direct, accountable response look like?

4) Homelessness & Drug Use — The Root Cause Argument

* The commissioner’s position:

* Main drivers are housing costs and weakened safety nets

What Actually Matters

* That explanation addresses why people become homeless

* It does not fully address:

* Ongoing behavior in public spaces

* Immediate safety and sanitation concerns

Why People Care

* Residents are dealing with current conditions, not long-term theory

Discussion Questions

* Can root causes explain current public safety issues?

* Is focusing on housing enough to address drug-related problems?

* Are these two separate problems being treated as one?

5) Counterpoint — Personal Responsibility

* Even if causes are systemic:

* Behavior still impacts others

* Drug use, waste, and disorder:

* Affect safety and shared spaces

* There is an expectation that:

* Individuals are accountable for actions that harm others

What Actually Matters

* A system that removes all personal responsibility can enable continued problems

Why People Care

* People want fairness — not different standards for different groups

Discussion Questions

* Where should the line be between compassion and accountability?

* Can you enforce behavior standards without being seen as punitive?

* Is personal responsibility being ignored in this conversation?

6) Counterpoint — Government Responsibility

* Local government responsibilities include:

* Enforcing public health laws

* Keeping public spaces safe

* Managing visible impacts like waste and drug activity

* Even if causes are national:

* The effects are local

What Actually Matters

* Residents expect action where they live — not just explanations of larger trends

Why People Care

* Daily quality of life is tied to how well local government manages these issues

Discussion Questions

* How much control does local government actually have?

* Is “we don’t control the root cause” a valid reason for limited action?

* What should the county realistically be doing differently?

7) The Core Tension (Wrap-Up)

* Two competing views:

* System problem (housing, safety net, economics)

* Behavior/enforcement problem

* Most people intuitively expect:

* Both to be addressed at the same time

What Actually Matters

* The frustration comes from a perceived imbalance — enforcement feels weak

Why People Care

* This affects safety, public spaces, and trust in leadership

Discussion Questions

* What would a balanced approach actually look like?

* What should be prioritized first: enforcement or support services?

* If nothing changes, what are the long-term consequences for the community?

Friday Reminders:

New Strait Shooter coming out

No protests in Sequim this weekend, so enjoy that.

Easter is on Sunday, so enjoy that too.

Saturday podcast will be about social media — not the same as the Watchdog, but it will complement his Social Media Saturday theme.

Thank you for listening. Have a great Friday the 3rd, everyone!

Lived Experience:

One of the best ways to learn is from people who have lived through something. These two interviews from Jake Seegers are with people who have lived through drug addiction and came out better — and not because of harm reduction:

Learn about The Gabriel Plan and the “Ten Points to Recover Our Nation” from the author, Ginny Burton, a survivor with lived experience who turned her life around and speaks out on the failed policies that are failing the people who need help the most. Interview from ChangeWashington.org:

YouTube Media:

What we had on our TV during the podcast:

Upright by Pain: The chorus lyrics have more guts than Ozias:

* You can whine until your mouth dries up / You can hang your head and wonder why / You can die or you can stand upright / And never go down again. (Full song lyrics here)

Democratic Talking Points: A brief compilation of clips featuring Senator Elissa Slotkin, with a revealing Freudian slip where she says ‘party over country’ instead of the other way around, which explains the TDS mindset — party is what matters, not the country; or in the case of Ozias, part matters rather than the county:

If nothing changes, what are the long-term consequences for the community?

First, this clip about L.A. sewers and the homeless people living in them shows what happens when nothing changes by the government who has management authority.

Second, a clip about the daily nightmares of living in the Bronx which are quite similar to what people report dealing with in Port Angeles. Again, this is going to be the long-term consequences for the community out here if nothing changes.

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

Don’t miss the best — and only — satirical news in Clallam County. The latest Friday edition shoots into inboxes at 6:03 this morning!

Town Hall on Public Safety Countdown:

14 days to go until April 16th. Click the Town Hall Google Calendar Invite link to add the event to personal calendars:

Learn about the Calico Cat Club, the Peoples Forum, and how to get involved:

Clallam County Letters:

Find out what people are writing to elected officials and bureaucrats — and what was rejected from local newspapers.

New issues are published every Monday and Thursday.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

No Kings Dingalings

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Kingly influence

An unelected ruler

Chief of the Clallam

This article includes the talking points created by ChatGPT tohat we covered in our podcast. The complete automated transcript of the podcast can be accessed by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

Sound Quality: We adjusted some controls for better sound. Around 25 minutes we had a technical issue; we resumed with our back-up mics and it changed the sound from stereo to mono.

The Double Standard

What this is about:

* People in Sequim are protesting concentrated power at the national level (e.g., Donald Trump), but not applying that same scrutiny to decisions happening locally.

What actually matters:

* Accountability is being applied selectively. The principle of “No Kings” is not being used consistently across levels of government.

Why people care:

* Local decisions directly affect:

* property taxes

* land use

* public safety

Yet those decisions face less resistance than national politics.

Questions to drive discussion:

* Why is it easier to challenge power far away than nearby?

* Are people motivated by principle — or visibility?

* Does distance make accountability feel safer?

Indirect Power (The “Modern Monarch” Tactic)

What this is about:

* Historically, kings influenced decisions behind the scenes to avoid responsibility. A similar pattern can be seen when decisions hinge on someone saying they’re “not in favor,” without formal authority.

What actually matters:

* Real power isn’t always elected— it’s whoever can stop or redirect decisions.

Why people care:

* In the Watchdog example involving Ron Allen: (No Kings? Look Closer — Clallam County Already Has Them)

* A $200K solution was rejected

* A far more expensive path was pursued

* The deciding factor wasn’t a public vote

That affects taxpayer exposure and public safety.

Questions to drive discussion:

* What defines power: title or influence?

* Should unelected individuals be able to override local solutions?

* Is indirect influence more powerful than direct authority?

Chief vs. King

What this is about:

* There’s a difference between leadership that serves people (chief) and leadership that directs outcomes (king).

What actually matters:

* Whether decisions are being shaped through:

* consensus and representation

* or centralized authority

Why people care:

* If leadership behaves more like a king than a chief, local residents lose influence over decisions that affect them.

Questions to drive discussion:

* At what point does influence become control?

* Does sovereignty justify overriding local input?

* Is this leadership acting as a representative — or a decision-maker over others?

From Google AI:

Yes, kings and monarchs have historically made secret or anonymous requests to their councils, advisors, or Parliament to influence decisions without appearing directly involved. This tactic allows the monarch to test political waters, avoid responsibility for unpopular decisions, or manipulate the agenda while maintaining an image of impartiality or acting only on official advice.

Common Methods of Secret Royal Influence:

* The Private Channel: A king might use a trusted intermediary, personal secretary, or servant to pass requests, ensuring the message doesn’t appear on formal royal stationery.

* “Anonymous” Petitions: Monarchs could arrange for a trusted ally to present a petition or demand, framing it as the will of the people or a concerned noble rather than the king’s desire.

* Using the Privy Council: Historically, kings like Henry VIII used their smaller, informal Privy Council to bypass Parliament or to draft legislation that appeared to originate from the council, not the king himself.

* Encouraging Opposition: A monarch might secretly encourage a certain group to act against a policy, thereby creating a “necessity” for the king to act differently.

* Pretending to be Advised: A king could command an advisor to advise him to do something, then make a public show of reluctantly agreeing to that “counsel.”

Historical Context:

* The Gunpowder Plot (1605): While the letter was anonymous to the receiver, the subsequent, swift investigation to uncover the plot was done “at the King’s request,” though early searches often seemed, to observers, to be routine rather than a direct, desperate command from King James I.

* Habsburg Emperor Joseph II: He was known to accept written petitions directly from citizens, bypassing local officials, which allowed him to hear grievances and influence local governance without his council or local governors knowing initially that he was acting on private complaints.

* Constitutional Monarchy Today: While less frequent, modern monarchs may still use confidential audiences to subtly influence policy without the public, or sometimes even the full Cabinet, knowing the origin of the concern.

This form of political maneuvering allowed for a “dual” style of government, where official, public actions could be contradicted or managed behind closed doors.

When Democracy Pauses

What this is about:

* Clallam County has a system where voters elect officials to make decisions. In this case, that system appeared to step aside.

What actually matters:

* The chain of accountability:

* voters → commissioners → decisions

* was interrupted by external influence.

Why people care:

* If decisions can be redirected outside that chain, voter influence is reduced or bypassed. (Sequim’s “Letter of Support” Wasn’t Written by Sequim)

Questions to drive discussion:

* Can a system still be democratic if decisions are shaped outside voters?

* Why didn’t this trigger more public concern?

* Are elected officials still accountable if they defer?

From Google AI:

No, an Indian chief was generally not similar to a European-style king. While both were leaders, a chief’s authority typically relied on consensus, respect, and service to the community, rather than the hereditary, absolute, or coercive power often held by kings. Chiefs were generally leaders of smaller, collaborative tribal groups, whereas kings ruled over larger, rigid territorial states.

Key Differences Between Chiefs and Kings

* Source of Authority: A chief’s power was often granted through consensus or merit, and they needed to maintain the respect of their people, whereas monarchs often claimed power through divine right or rigid heredity.

* Structure of Power: Tribal leadership was often dispersed among several chiefs (such as war chiefs or civil chiefs) and councils. A king was usually a singular, centralized sovereign.

* Role and Function: Chiefs often acted as representatives, diplomats, or community stewards rather than absolute rulers. Their role was frequently tied directly to “doing” for the people, whereas kings held authority over subjects.

* Terminology Issues: Early European settlers frequently misapplied the term “king” to Native leaders (such as calling a high-ranking chief a “king” or “emperor”) to fit their own understanding of government, as noted in the example of Powhatan.

However, in some highly structured, large-scale confederacies, some aspects of leadership resembled more formal, centralized rule.

Modern Homage (Land Acknowledgements)

What this is about:

* Local boards are adopting land acknowledgements—formal statements recognizing tribal land—often introduced and passed quickly.

What actually matters:

* These acknowledgements:

* were not always agenda items

* passed unanimously

* are becoming standard practice

Why people care:

* They may signal:

* cultural respect

* or evolving power dynamics in local governance

Tie to Watchdog example: land acknowledgements expanding across local boards. (Land Acknowledgements Arrive in Clallam County Government)

Questions to drive discussion:

* Are these symbolic, or do they influence decision-making?

* Why do they pass with little debate?

* Do ceremonial practices shape policy direction over time?

From Google AI:

Yes, in monarchies, people traditionally pay acknowledgements to the king or queen to show respect and loyalty, though these gestures are now voluntary rather than compulsory. Common forms include a small neck bow for men or a brief curtsy for women, with the formal address of “Your Majesty”.

Key aspects of these acknowledgements include:

* Voluntary Nature: While historically mandatory, there is no legal requirement to bow or curtsy today; it is a personal choice based on tradition.

* Significance: These gestures signify respect and recognize the monarch as a symbol of national identity, unity, and continuity.

* Ceremonial Acts: Specific, formal acts of homage, such as the “[Homage of the People]” during a coronation, allow individuals to pledge allegiance.

* Public Engagements: When the King or other royal family members perform public duties, attendees may choose to use these greetings during conversations or presentations.

In addition to personal greetings, acknowledgements are made through public duty engagements and official ceremonies, which serve as a way for the monarch to foster a connection with the public.

Social Risk vs Safe Protest

What this is about:

* Protesting national issues is low-risk. Questioning local decisions can carry social consequences.

What actually matters:

* People may avoid local scrutiny to:

* protect reputation

* avoid conflict

* stay aligned with community norms

Why people care:

* This creates an environment where:

* local decisions face less challenge

* controversial policies move forward quietly

Questions to drive discussion:

* Are people avoiding local issues because of social pressure?

* Is silence a form of self-protection?

* Does community familiarity reduce accountability?

Visibility vs Complexity

What this is about:

* National issues are easy to understand and widely shared. Local issues are buried in complex documents.

What actually matters:

* Complexity reduces oversight.

Why people care:

* Important decisions:

* happen in long agendas

* are rarely summarized clearly

* go largely unnoticed

Questions to drive discussion:

* Are local governments benefiting from low visibility?

* Who is responsible for making these issues understandable?

* Would engagement increase if information were simplified?

Consistency of Principles

What this is about:

* “No Kings” is about opposing concentrated power—but it’s not being applied consistently.

What actually matters:

* A principle only has weight if it applies everywhere, not just where it’s convenient.

Why people care:

* If applied selectively:

* it becomes political branding

* not a real standard of accountability

Questions to drive discussion:

* Can a principle still be valid if applied selectively?

* What would “No Kings” look like at the local level?

* Who holds real power locally — and who is questioning it?

Closing Focus

What this is about:

* There’s a gap between national activism and local awareness.

What actually matters:

* Local decisions often have more direct impact than national ones.

Why people care:

* Ignoring local governance means:

* less control over taxes

* less input on land decisions

* more unchecked influence

Questions to drive discussion:

* What local issue deserves attention right now?

* What’s one simple way to start paying attention locally?

* If people applied “No Kings” locally, what would change immediately?

Core Throughline

* Power operates most effectively where scrutiny is lowest

* Local governance often escapes the standards applied nationally

* “No Kings” either applies everywhere — or it doesn’t hold at all

Reminder:

Again, the No Kings rally is from 12pm to 2pm today at West Washington Street and North Priest road.

Thank you for listening, laughing, Cher-ing & subscribing!

YouTube Media:

What we had on our TV during the podcast:

John’s music recommendation:

We The Governed addresses the No Kings rallies:

Indian Giver performed by The Ramones:

Strait Shooter:

Catch up on the best — and only — satirical news in Clallam County that is nothing but the truth…kind of.

Town Hall on Public Safety Countdown:

20 days to go until April 16th. Click the Town Hall Google Calendar Invite link to add the event to personal calendars:

Learn about the Calico Cat Club, the Peoples Forum, and how to get involved:

Clallam County Letters:

Find out what people are writing to elected officials and bureaucrats — and what was rejected from local newspapers.

Next issue comes out Monday, March 30, 2026.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

A Busy World of Lost Concepts

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

What a book teaches.

Everyone has work to do.

Is the concept lost?

What the Book Is About (Simple Terms)

Talking Points:

* A classic children’s book by Richard Scarry centered around a fictional place called Busytown.

* First copyrighted in 1968, second in 1979; for kids ages 3 to 7, even as young as ages 2 to 4 due to the illustrations

* Uses animal characters to represent people doing everyday jobs.

* Walks through how society functions: farming, construction, transportation, healthcare, etc.

* Breaks down systems in a simple, visual way — how things get made, moved, and used.

* Core theme: people rely on each other to keep everything running.

Discussion Questions:

* What did this book teach you about how the world works when you first saw it?

* Do kids today get this kind of “how things work” explanation anywhere else?

* Is simplifying society like this helpful — or does it leave too much out?

Why the Book May Be Viewed as Inappropriate

Talking Points:

* Criticism centers on outdated gender roles common in the 1960s–70s.

* Men are typically shown in skilled or labor-intensive jobs (construction, firefighting, etc.).

* Women are often depicted in domestic roles or limited professions (cooking, cleaning, nursing).

* Limited representation of diversity in both roles and characters.

* Presents a rigid structure of “this is what people do,” with little variation.

* Raises concern that it may subtly reinforce stereotypes rather than reflect modern realities.

Discussion Questions:

* Does exposure to outdated roles actually influence how kids think about jobs?

* Should books like this be removed, updated, or used with explanation?

* Are adults overreacting to content kids may not interpret that deeply?

* Where is the line between historical context and inappropriate messaging?

From Google AI:

Yes, young children’s minds are significantly more susceptible and vulnerable to environmental, emotional, and social influences than adults. Their brains possess higher plasticity, meaning they are more adaptable and receptive to learning, but also more vulnerable to harm from trauma, stress, and negative experiences.

Why Young Minds are More Susceptible

* Brain Development & Plasticity: Around 90% of a child’s brain develops before age 5, making it highly flexible and adaptable.

* Reduced Cognitive Control: Children have lower levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that stabilizes brain networks, allowing them to learn faster but also making their existing learning more easily overwritten.

* High Sensitivity to Environment: Positive experiences build strong foundations, but trauma, poverty, and stress can harm development more than in adults.

* Emotional Processing: Children and teens rely more on the emotional, impulsive brain regions (limbic system) than the logical, mature prefrontal cortex, making them more swayed by emotion and social rewards.

* Susceptibility to Information: Young brains are more likely to adopt new information rather than rely on past knowledge, notes Sage Journals.

Key Differences vs. Adults

* Information Processing: While adults have better-developed prefrontal cortices to regulate emotions and evaluate information, children are faster learners but less capable of filtering irrelevant information, says the American Psychological Association (APA).

* Social Media/Influences: Younger users face higher risks of body image issues and online harassment compared to adults, as their sense of self is not fully formed.

* Long-Term Impact: The brain is most flexible in early years, but this means that early childhood experiences (both positive and negative) have a longer-lasting impact on brain structure, says the Bipartisan Policy Center and the NSPCC Learning.

Why This Book Is Important Today

Talking Points:

* One of the few children’s books that clearly explains how systems function.

* Shows the connection between different types of work—how one job supports another.

* Introduces basic economic and social concepts without using complex language.

* Encourages “systems thinking,” which is largely missing in modern children’s content.

* Can be used as a tool to compare past vs present societal roles.

* Offers a foundation for discussions rather than a fixed model of reality.

Discussion Questions:

* Are kids today less aware of how everyday systems actually work?

* Is understanding “how things work” more valuable than avoiding outdated portrayals?

* Could this book be used as a teaching tool instead of being dismissed?

* What modern equivalent, if any, teaches these same concepts?

Deeper Discussion Angles

Talking Points:

* The tension between preserving classics and adapting to current values.

* Whether removing older material limits understanding of historical context.

* The shift from educational content toward entertainment-focused children’s media.

* The idea that adults may project concerns onto children’s interpretations.

* Whether simplifying roles helps learning—or unintentionally narrows perspective.

Discussion Questions:

* What’s the bigger risk: outdated ideas or lack of real-world understanding?

* Should all classic media be updated to reflect modern values?

* Is something lost by prioritizing sensitivity over substance?

* How should parents or educators frame books like this today?

Closing Perspective

Talking Points:

* The book’s real value lies in showing interdependence — how society functions as a system.

* It is less about defining roles and more about demonstrating connections.

* Can be viewed as either outdated — or foundational — depending on how it’s used.

* Serves best as a conversation starter, not a definitive guide.

Discussion Questions:

* Are kids still being taught how the world works — or just how to think about it?

* Is there a modern replacement that does this better?

* What should be preserved from older educational materials, and what should be left behind?

Reminders:

Saturday the 28th will be yet another No Kings rally slowing down traffic along West Washington Street and North Priest Road (Walmart, Home Depot), 12 until 2pm. So, plan accordingly.

Good news — Gayle left a comment on my Sequim Monitor article about the Indivisible Sequim rally posters in the high school. I’ll include my YouTube video about it. Gayle contacted the school board and heard back from two of the board members that the posters were removed last week.

Tomorrow we’ll be back with another podcast, not sure what the topic will be yet, so stay tuned to find out.

Thank you, everyone, for listening and making this podcast part of your day. Have a great Friday the 27th.

YouTube Media:

The Busy World of Richard Scarry is an animated children’s television series, produced by CINAR Films and France Animation in association with Paramount Television, that aired from 1994 to 1996, first on Showtime, later on Nickelodeon, and ran for 65 episodes. (Wikipedia)

Schmudge, the German Chimney Sweep; an episode that was on during the podcast:

What Do People Do All Day?; a portion of the book read out loud and showing the illustrations:

My video update about the Indivisible Sequim posters in the high school:

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

Don’t miss the best — and only — satirical news in Clallam County. The latest Friday edition shoots into inboxes at 6:07 this morning!

Town Hall on Public Safety Countdown:

21 days to go until April 16th. Click the Town Hall Google Calendar Invite link to add the event to personal calendars:

Learn about the Calico Cat Club, the Peoples Forum, and how to get involved:

Clallam County Letters:

Find out what people are writing to elected officials and bureaucrats — and what was rejected from local newspapers.

Next issue comes out Monday, March 30, 2026.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Priced out and burned out

Jobs, housing, and taxation

Is it time to go?

1. Cost of Living vs Income (The Math Doesn’t Work)

Key Stats:

* Washington combined state/local sales tax: ~9–10% (varies by area)

* Median household income:

* Washington State: ~$91K

* Clallam County: ~$64K

* WA ranks among the top 10 most expensive states for cost of living

* Gas prices consistently above national average

* From Google AI:

As of March 2026, Washington state gas prices are significantly higher than both Idaho and Montana, often by $1.00 or more per gallon. Washington regularly ranks among the highest in the nation—exceeding $4.90 per gallon—due to stricter regulations, while Idaho and Montana often have some of the lowest prices in the country, often under $3.00, say YouTube video and LendingTree study.

Price Comparisons (As of March 2026)

* Washington: Consistently near or above $5.00/gallon, often over $1.20 more than the national average, say Instagram reel and Facebook post.

* Idaho: Significantly cheaper, with North Idaho prices often in the $3.20–$3.50 range, per this article from NBCRightNow.com.

* Montana: Often 30–60 cents lower than Washington, notes this Facebook postand YouTube video.

Key Reasons for Differences

* Washington State Taxes & Policy: Washington’s high prices are partly due to the Climate Commitment Act (carbon pricing) and higher fuel taxes.

* Regional Variation: Western Washington (e.g., King County) is usually more expensive than Eastern Washington, which benefits from proximity to refineries in Montana and Utah.

* Taxes: Idaho’s gas tax is significantly lower than Washington’s, noted Nisqually Valley News.

What It Means:

* No income tax is offset by high consumption costs

* Clallam wages lag while costs don’t

* State minimum wage in 2026 is $17.13 for workers over 16 years old; it was $9.47 in 2016; increased 80% in 10 years

* Working-class households feel constant pressure

Questions to Ask:

* “At what income does living here actually feel comfortable?”

* “Are the very people who keep the local economy running being priced out?”

* “Is Washington really ‘tax-friendly,’ or just taxed differently?”

2. Housing Pressure (Locals vs Outside Money)

Key Stats:

* Median home price:

* WA: ~$600K+

* Clallam County: ~$450K–$500K (varies by area)

* Rent increases in WA: 20–30% over recent years in many areas

* Housing supply remains structurally limited statewide

What It Means:

* Local wages cannot support local housing

* Retirees + remote workers bring outside income into the market

* First-time buyers are effectively locked out

Questions to Ask:

* “Who is the housing market actually built for right now?”

* “Can a young tradesperson realistically buy a home here?”

* “At what point does a community lose its workforce?”

* See businesses for sale in Clallam County here

Housing Market Info: I did a Zillow search on Friday, March 20, 2026, for homes in Clallam County with a listed sales price up to $300,000; the search did not include land/lots.

The result was 47 listings, including 55+ communities:

Then I removed 55+ from the search criteria; it resulted in 20 listings up to $300,000:

3. Business Climate (Revenue vs Survival)

Key Stats:

* WA Business & Occupation (B&O) tax:

* Charged on gross revenue, not profit

* Small business failure rate nationally: ~20% in first year, but higher pressure in high-cost states

* Insurance, materials, and labor costs have all risen 15–40%+ since 2020

What It Means:

* You pay taxes even when margins are thin

* Small operators absorb cost increases or lose jobs

* Easier to relocate than to scale in place

Questions to Ask:

* “How many small businesses are profitable vs just surviving?”

* “Does Washington reward small operators — or slowly squeeze them out?”

* “At what point does relocating make more sense than pushing through?”

4. Demographic Shift (Who’s Leaving vs Who’s Replacing Them)

Key Stats:

* Washington has seen net outmigration in recent years (more people leaving than arriving domestically)

* Rural counties trend older:

* Clallam County median age: ~50+

* Workforce participation declining in some rural regions

What It Means:

* Younger, working-age people are leaving

* Retirees and remote earners replacing them

* Service economy strain (not enough workers)

Questions to Ask:

* “Can a county function if its workforce keeps shrinking?”

* “What happens when service demand rises but labor supply drops?”

* “Is it becoming a retirement zone instead of a working economy?”

5. Lifestyle Friction & Policy Disconnect (The Slow Burn)

Key Stats:

* Clallam County population: ~77,000 (small, limited services)

* Healthcare access: rural provider shortages across WA

* Construction timelines extended due to:

* Permit delays

* Contractor shortages

* WA consistently ranks high in regulatory complexity

What It Means:

* Daily life requires more time, money, and planning

* Policies often built for urban areas, applied statewide

* Friction accumulates → people look for simpler environments

Questions to Ask:

* “How much friction will people tolerate before they leave?”

* “Are policies designed for Seattle being applied to places like Sequim and Forks?”

* “Is quality of life improving — or just getting more complicated?”

Optional Add-On Segment (If You Want Depth)

“Where Are They Going?”:

* Idaho, Montana, Arizona, Texas

* Lower taxes, cheaper housing, fewer regulations

Question:

* “What are those states doing differently — and is it actually better, or just cheaper?”

Thank you everyone for listening.

Next week, we will discuss the Richard Scarry books that Dr. Sarah shared with us.

YouTube Media:

The title question as stated by The Clash: Should I Stay or Should I Go?

When is it time to go? When a voice says ‘Get Out’:

Living comfortably, even in Clallam County, isn’t just about income; it’s also about spending habits. When people overspend, it can make life very uncomfortable no matter where they live:

It’s unnerving to see a mountain lion on our cameras, but we prefer that instead of what shows up on other people’s cameras:

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Town Hall on Public Safety Countdown:

26 days to go until April 16th. Click the Town Hall Google Calendar Invite link to add the event to personal calendars:

Learn about the Calico Cat Club, the Peoples Forum, and how to get involved:

Clallam County Letters:

Find out what people are writing to elected officials and bureaucrats — and what was rejected from local newspapers.

Next issue comes out Monday, March 23, 2026.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Hey, Activists — Leave Those Kids Alone

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Activating fear

Are schools helping or harming?

Ignoring core skills

This article includes the talking points created by ChatGPT, with added questions created by me, that we covered in our podcast. The complete automated transcript of the podcast can be accessed by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

Segment 1: Activism Shows Up, Achievement Doesn’t

CC Watchdog Article

1. What the article is about:

* A public comment at a Sequim school board meeting focused heavily on fear and immigration concerns, not academics.

* A local activist from Indivisible Sequim presented concerns that students feel scared and unheard, especially about possible ICE presence.

* She came prepared with training, templates, and suggested actions.

* Meanwhile, the school itself is struggling with attendance and academic performance.

2. What actually matters:

* Only about 65% attendance → that’s a major red flag.

* Math and science proficiency are weak and measurable problems.

* The tension: Emotional safety vs academic performance

* Core issue: Are schools prioritizing the right problems?

3. Why people care:

* Parents and taxpayers want schools focused on skills that determine life outcomes (reading, math, consistency).

* Others believe schools should also address student fears and social climate.

* Concern: Activism may be influencing school priorities

* Bigger question: Who is actually shaping school policy — educators or outside groups?

4. Questions to drive discussion:

* At what point does addressing feelings start crowding out core education?

* What is making kids feel scared? Watching the news, friends being deported, seeing protestors in town?

* Should schools prepare for rare scenarios (like ICE showing up) or focus on daily realities like attendance?

* If students feel scared, is that a school issue or a broader societal issue?

* Do the parents know their kids feel scared?

* If kids feel unheard, what are they doing to be heard? Do they share their views on social media, blogs, or anywhere so people know how they feel? Do they attend school board meetings?

* What is the school board’s actual job: Academic outcomes; Emotional support; Both — and how do you balance it?

* Does bringing in outside activist groups help or distort priorities?

Google AI: what are high school students biggest fears 2026:

In 2026, high school students’ biggest fears are driven by economic instability, the pressure to succeed, and a rapidly changing technological landscape, leading to high anxiety over financial independence, future planning, and career prospects. Key concerns include:

* Financial & Future Uncertainty: Not becoming financially independent (44%), fear of falling behind (41%), and student debt (27%).

* Academic/Career Failure: Failing at school or work (30%) and not finding a meaningful job (39%).

* Mental Health & Safety: High levels of anxiety, depression, and fear regarding school safety and violence.

* Social & Developmental Changes: Fear of social rejection, peer pressure, and navigating a world with increased automation and reduced human connection.

Key 2026 Fear Trends

* Post-Graduation Anxiety: Nearly 40% of teens fear not having a clear plan for life after high school.

* Technology & Safety: Concerns over AI, facial recognition in policing, and community safety (e.g., ICE enforcement in certain communities).

* General World Concerns: Climate change, political polarization, and the pressure of “perfectionism”.

* Mental Health Struggles: High fear of failing to manage personal mental health while navigating intense academic or social pressure.

Despite these fears, many teenagers are finding hope in their own generation’s ability to drive change and connect, often relying on peer support rather than traditional adult systems to navigate these challenges.

Segment 2: When Activists Teach History

CC Watchdog Article

1. What the article is about:

* A civic organization, League of Women Voters, promotes a history textbook for elementary students (grades 3–5), The State We’re In: Washington.

* The book includes lessons on government, history, and civic life.

* It also teaches kids how to determine what’s true — but includes strongly framed “facts” about climate change.

2. What actually matters:

* The organization openly identifies as activist, and also openly supports another activist group, Indivisible Sequim.

* The textbook is being introduced to young children (8–11 years old).

* It presents certain complex issues (like climate change) as settled facts, not debate.

* Key issue: Who decides what is “fact” for kids?

3. Why people care:

* Parents and taxpayers expect schools to teach foundational knowledge, not push perspectives.

* Concern about bias being introduced early, before kids can think critically.

* Others argue this is simply teaching modern reality and science.

* Bigger concern: Are kids learning how to think — or what to think?

4. Questions to drive discussion:

* Is it appropriate to present complex topics like climate change as undisputed fact to elementary students?

* What’s the difference between education and advocacy?

Education is the structured or informal process of acquiring knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes, enabling personal growth and societal development. It acts as a tool for critical thinking and empowerment, shaping individuals’ lives while passing essential competencies across generations. It spans formal schooling, non-formal, and informal learning. Source

Advocacy is the active support, pleading, or recommendation of a specific cause, policy, or idea to influence decisions and create change. It involves speaking up for oneself or others—particularly vulnerable groups—to ensure rights are protected and voices are heard. It commonly involves raising awareness and promoting social change. Source

* Should activist organizations be involved in curriculum development at all?

* How does an activist group move from voting to promoting climate change in elementary school curriculum?

* At what age should kids be introduced to controversial or political topics?

* Does teaching “how to evaluate sources” conflict with presenting certain conclusions as already settled?

Image and example from book, The State We’re In: Washington:

Fact or Opinion:

(One) As the earth gets warmer, there will be more severe storms and wildfires. (Fact)

(Four) Burning fossil fuels like gas and oil is the biggest cause of climate change. (Fact)

(Five) Rising sea levels will flood coastal cities. (Fact)

* Could reading these ‘facts’ create fear in the mind of an 8 to 11-year-old? Could these ‘facts’ cause children to become scared, or give them anxiety, especially when living in a coastal city?

* What spreads fear — education or activism?

Bridge Between Both Segments

Connecting Theme: Fear + Influence

* In both stories: Adults are shaping environments around fear and messaging

* One focuses on: Fear in schools (ICE, safety, uncertainty)

* The other focuses on: What kids are taught to believe is true

Bridge Questions:

* Are kids being prepared for the world — or conditioned to see it a certain way?

* Is fear being managed — or amplified?

* What has more long-term impact: Academic failure or emotional/social conditioning?

Closing:

Final question to leave listeners with:

* If a school produces students who have fear about the world around them and they advocate for change — but can’t read, write, or do math well — is that success?

Thank you all for listening and engaging with comments; have a great first day of spring, Friday the 20th!

YouTube Media:

We watched ‘RAD’ from 1986 while doing the podcast; the opening credits set the tone for the whole film:

The best BMX boogie in cinematic history, with Lori Loughlin in close-ups but not doing the bike stunts; legendary BMX rider Eddie Fiola was the primary stunt double; the wig gives it away:

Kids getting heard at school board meetings; not local, but relevant to the topic of kids addressing the governing board of their schools with their concerns:

First, a boy reads from a book he found in his school library:

Second, a girl schools her school board on her Constitutional rights when it comes to public comments:

Are kids being fed fear from climate change curriculum in schools?

From the John Stossel channel, a look at the ‘War on Steak’ and how meat is causing climate change; one more example of what climate change activism passes on to kids at young ages that can instill feelings of fear, guilt, and anxiety.

What can happen when kids participate in political protests while school administration lets them walk out:

Earlier this year in Enumclaw, Washington, where an anti-ICE walkout resulted in teens getting arrested after assaulting an individual and resisting police. Due to YouTube’s policy, the video can only be viewed on YouTube; click here to watch it.

Side note: I watched a number of these sorts of school walkout anti-ICE protest clips the past few months, from different areas of the country. Based on my observations and life experiences, I think the kids in these protests are not high scholastic achievers. Some kids will take any opportunity they can to get out of class, and that’s what I suspect happened in these scenarios.

It brings to light the issue of what activists are actually promoting to kids — speaking out in defense of cause, or taking a free pass to get out of class and get attention? I think it’s the latter.

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

Start spring with a healthy helping of local satire from the Strait Shooter, hitting inboxes at 6:10 this morning!

Catch up on all the latest news no one else prints, because it may or may not have happened. Learn about the newest drug labeling initiative, the reeducation endeavors of county commissioners, a land acknowledgement that preceded time immemorial, and the best financial investment that no one is talking about. Whether the stories are fact or fiction, it is the truth…kind of.

Town Hall on Public Safety Countdown:

27 days to go until April 16th. Click the Town Hall Google Calendar Invite link to add the event to personal calendars:

Learn about the Calico Cat Club, the Peoples Forum, and how to get involved:

Clallam County Letters:

Find out what people are writing to elected officials and bureaucrats — and what was rejected from local newspapers.

Next issue comes out Monday, March 23, 2026.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the BCC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

From Concern to Collectivism

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

The power of We

A collectivist mindset

What does it lead to?

The Curious Power of “We”: How ordinary conversations about community problems sometimes drift into very large philosophical territory.

Opening:

CJ: There’s a word that appears in almost every community meeting, Facebook debate, letter to the editor, and neighborhood conversation in Clallam County. That word is “we.”

SS: And interestingly, it’s usually not the government saying it first. It’s people. Residents. Activists. Concerned neighbors.

CJ: It usually starts innocently. Someone says: “We need to do something.”

SS: Which sounds perfectly reasonable. Until someone quietly asks the follow-up question: “Who exactly is the we here?”

Step 1: Concerned Citizens

What actually matters in Clallam County:

The first stage usually begins with concerned residents.

You’ll hear statements like:

* “We need to solve homelessness.”

* “We need to protect our community.”

* “We need to help people.”

These statements usually come from people who genuinely want to improve the community.

And that impulse is understandable. Clallam County residents care deeply about their towns, parks, and neighborhoods.

Why people care:

The Olympic Peninsula is small enough that problems feel personal.

If you see:

* tents downtown

* trash along trails

* drug activity in parks

you naturally want something done.

The instinctive reaction becomes: “We should fix this.”

Questions to drive discussion:

* When residents say “we need to do something,” what do they actually mean?

* Are people thinking about personal action, or community programs?

* Why does the word “we” feel so natural when discussing local problems?

Step 2: From “We Should” to “We Must”

What actually matters:

At some point, the conversation changes.

It shifts from: “We should do something” to “We must do something.”

And once that happens, the next question becomes: How?

Which is where proposals often appear.

Things like:

* new programs

* public funding

* new regulations

* expanded services

Why people care:

Because the shift from community concern to organized solutions is where real-world consequences begin.

Residents who originally said “we should help” sometimes realize the next step is:

* taxes

* rules

* enforcement

* government involvement

Questions to drive discussion:

* When does community concern become policy?

* Do people always realize the implications of “we must act”?

* Is collective action the only way communities solve problems?

Step 3: Collective Thinking

What actually matters:

When many people start framing issues as shared responsibility, the community moves into collectivist thinking.

Collectivism simply means: Problems are viewed as belonging to the group, not individuals.

Instead of saying: “That person needs to solve their problem.”

The framing becomes: “We need to solve this problem as a community.”

Why people care:

Collectivist thinking can create strong communities.

But it can also shift responsibility away from individuals.

This tension shows up in many local debates:

* addiction policy

* homelessness

* housing development

* environmental rules

Different residents draw the line in different places.

Questions to drive discussion:

* Where is the balance between compassion and accountability?

* When does collective responsibility replace personal responsibility?

* Are some problems better solved collectively?

Step 4: When Collectivism Meets Policy

What actually matters:

Once a community agrees that problems belong to the collective, policy usually follows.

Because if “we” are responsible, then the next step is figuring out how the collective acts.

In modern societies, that usually means:

* public programs

* shared funding

* organized solutions

Historically, this is the philosophical foundation behind socialist systems, which emphasize collective management of resources.

Why people care:

For some residents, collective programs represent compassion and cooperation.

For others, they raise concerns about:

* expanding bureaucracy

* growing government control

* increasing taxes

The disagreement is often less about intentions and more about where the line should be drawn.

Questions to drive discussion:

* When does collective action become government expansion?

* Are public programs the best way to solve social problems?

* Can communities act collectively without expanding bureaucracy?

Step 5: The Historical Theory

What actually matters:

In the 1800s, political thinkers like Karl Marx built theories around collectivism.

Marx argued that capitalism produced inequality, and that society would eventually transition through stages.

His theory described:

* Capitalism

* Socialism (collective control of resources)

* Communism (a fully collective society)

Communism was imagined as a society where resources were distributed according to need.

Why people care:

Modern policy debates are not usually trying to implement Marxist theory.

But the philosophical roots of collectivism still shape how people think about society.

This is why conversations about social programs sometimes turn into debates about socialism.

Questions to drive discussion:

* Are modern collectivist policies connected to older political theories?

* Or are they simply practical ways to solve problems?

* How much do historical ideas influence modern thinking?

Step 6: The Reality of Human Nature

What actually matters:

The real question for communities like Clallam County isn’t theoretical.

It’s practical.

Every community must constantly balance two things:

* Individual freedom

and

* Collective responsibility

Too much individualism can leave problems unsolved.

Too much collectivism can limit personal choice.

Why people care:

Clallam County is a place where:

* people value independence

* people value community

* people value fairness

The tension between those values is what drives many local debates.

Questions to drive discussion:

* How much responsibility should individuals carry versus the community?

* Can communities solve problems without expanding bureaucracy?

* Is there a healthy middle ground between individualism and collectivism?

Closing:

CJ: So the interesting thing about the word “we” is that it rarely starts with ideology. It usually starts with concern.

SS: Someone sees a problem and says: “We should do something.”

CJ: And sometimes that leads to community cooperation.

SS: And sometimes it leads to 47-page grant proposals.

CJ: Either way, the conversation always begins with the same small word.

CJ & SS: We.

— — — —

Thank you everyone for listening and making this podcast part of your day. Have a great Saturday the 14th.

YouTube Media:

A satirical promotion for the warmth of collectivism when individualism becomes tiring, from The Babylon Bee:

Ayn Rand on Collectivism: A short clip featuring the Russian-American writer and philosopher discussing collective socialism in America. It is just as relevant today as it was decades ago:

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Clallam County Letters:

Next issue comes out Monday, March 16, 2026.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Helping or Enabling? The Social Program Debate in Clallam County

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Enabling choices

Entitled dependency

Endangered freedoms

Theme: Social programs in Clallam County — harm reduction, food banks, housing programs, and subsidized services — and whether they promote recovery and independence or create long-term dependence.

“Dog Neutering Requires More ID Than Voting” (CCWD Article)

What the article is about:

* The Clallam County Sheriff’s Office partnered with volunteers and used $5,000 in taxpayer money to spay or neuter 151 dogs and cats.

* Participants had to show proof they were low-income to qualify.

* One exception: homeless residents did not need proof.

What actually matters:

* The story raises questions about how eligibility rules are applied.

* If programs require income verification for some people but waive it for others, the real issue becomes who decides the rules and why.

* It also highlights how many programs now operate through a mix of taxpayer money and nonprofit volunteers.

Why people care:

* Residents generally support animal welfare and reducing stray animals.

* But taxpayers may question:

* Whether government should fund these programs

* Why eligibility rules vary

* Whether services become another form of public subsidy without clear accountability

Discussion questions:

* Should animal control programs be government funded, or primarily nonprofit?

* Is the real issue animal welfare, or is it another example of expanding public services?

* At what point do well-intended programs become another layer of welfare policy?

* Welfare policy refers to government-led initiatives, programs, and regulations designed to provide essential support, financial assistance, and services to individuals and families in need. Aimed at reducing poverty and inequality, these policies ensure a minimum standard of living through aid like food stamps, housing assistance, and healthcare. (Source)

Harm Reduction vs. Accountability (CCWD Article)

What the article/interview is about:

* Recovered addict Stacey Richards describes her experience with addiction and recovery.

Her argument:

* She did not get clean until the consequences were no longer removed.

Key quotes include:

* “Everybody was enabling me… they made it easy for me to keep getting high.”

* “I can’t help them when the county enables them.”

* “Enabling didn’t get me clean.”

* “To enable is to dig a grave.”

What actually matters:

* This is a fundamental policy debate:

* Two competing philosophies:

* Harm reduction approach

* Reduce damage from addiction

* Provide services without requiring sobriety

* Accountability approach

* Consequences drive recovery

* Removing consequences prolongs addiction

Why people care:

* Clallam County has invested heavily in:

* harm reduction

* behavioral health programs

* outreach and services for addiction

* But critics argue these programs can normalize destructive behavior rather than stopping it.

* The conflict is emotional because it involves life-and-death issues.

Discussion questions:

* Can harm reduction and accountability coexist?

* Does removing consequences delay recovery?

* Should public policy prioritize compassion or accountability?

The Food Bank Question (CCWD Article)

What the article is about:

* A testimonial suggested the food bank is not just for poor families.

* One user explained it can help people offset other costs, such as:

* sports fees

* groceries

* other household expenses

What actually matters:

* The key issue is how social programs expand over time.

* Originally food banks were intended for people in genuine crisis.

* Now the narrative sometimes shifts to “for everyone.”

* That raises questions about whether the system is:

* a safety net, or

* a supplement to household budgets

Why people care:

* Food banks rely heavily on:

* donations

* volunteers

* public funding

* If middle-income households begin using them regularly, it changes the entire purpose of the system.

* It also affects public perception of who the programs are actually serving.

Discussion questions:

* Should food banks remain strictly emergency assistance?

* At what point does using them become budget optimization instead of need?

* Does expanding eligibility dilute help for people truly in crisis?

* Is the real issue rising cost of living rather than misuse — or do individuals have a responsibility to manage their finances and priorities to make sure they have money for necessities instead of paying for wants?

$500,000 “Affordable” Housing Units (CCWD Article)

What the article is about:

* A proposed housing development in Port Angeles:

* Mt. Angeles View Phase II

* 60 units

* Total cost: $30 million

* That equals about $500,000 per unit.

* Officials explain the price through:

* planning costs

* consultants

* architectural work

* regulatory compliance

* financing layers

What actually matters:

* The real question is how government housing projects become so expensive.

* Public housing often involves:

* multiple funding streams

* heavy regulatory requirements

* administrative layers

* These can dramatically increase cost compared with private construction.

Why people care:

* Taxpayers fund the project in two ways:

* 1. Construction subsidies

* 2. Ongoing housing subsidies

* Critics argue that public housing increasingly asks working residents to fund housing they themselves cannot afford.

Discussion questions:

* Why does publicly funded housing often cost more than private construction?

* Is affordable housing becoming a government industry?

* Could the same money produce more units if regulations were reduced?

* What is the long-term cost to taxpayers?

“Luxury” Supportive Housing (CCWD Article)

What the article is about:

* Peninsula Behavioral Health is finishing North View, a permanent supportive housing complex overlooking Port Angeles.

* It is described as:

* low-barrier housing

* permanent supportive services

* scenic views of the harbor and mountains

What actually matters:

* “Low-barrier” means residents typically do not need sobriety or employment requirements to qualify.

* The housing combines:

* public funding

* social services

* long-term residency

Why people care:

* Supporters argue these programs:

* stabilize vulnerable populations

* reduce homelessness

* provide treatment access

* Critics argue they can create permanent dependency structures.

Discussion questions:

* Do supportive housing programs solve homelessness or institutionalize it?

* Should housing require participation in treatment or employment?

* What is the long-term outcome for residents?

* Is the goal recovery, or simply stability?

The Big Questions

What actually matters:

* Across all these stories is the same underlying debate:

* What is the purpose of social programs?

* Two views dominate:

* Safety-net view

* Programs exist to reduce suffering and stabilize people.

* Responsibility view

* Programs should help people regain independence, not create permanent reliance.

Closing discussion questions:

* Where should the line be between help and enabling?

* Are social programs expanding faster than the problems they aim to solve?

* Do local governments measure long-term outcomes, or only program activity?

* What policies would actually lead more people to independence rather than dependency?

YouTube Media:

Compilation of videos featuring people losing SNAP & EBT benefits; people who use the system to subsidize their lifestyles by remaining in poverty and not working; learning what it’s like to buy food with their own money when benefits are cut; and a look inside a Section 8 house after a tenant is finally evicted.

“I am thankful for all of those who said NO to me. It's because of them I'm doing it myself.” Albert Einstein, maybe

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

It’s time for a Friday shot of satire, landing in inboxes at 6:13am today.

This week’s Friday edition includes stories about a new landmark renaming initiative, the county commissioners stop beating around the bush, a push to replace colonizing sports, a pets for the homeless program, and a letter to the editor from a stunned resident who expects terrifying content instead of jokes.

Clallam County Letters:

Next issue comes out Monday, March 16, 2026.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Talking Property Taxes

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Saturday discourse

Paying property taxes

The cost of living

This article includes the talking points we covered in our podcast. The complete automated transcript of the podcast can be accessed by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

ChatGPT created the talking points for this podcast based on the prompt it was given.

1. Why Clallam County Property Taxes Keep Climbing

What the issue is:

* Many homeowners across Clallam County report noticeable increases in their property tax bills over the past several years. The increases are often attributed to a mix of annual levy increases, voter-approved levies, and rising property assessments.

What actually matters:

* Washington law limits regular property tax increases to roughly 1% per year, but additional revenue can be added through:

* New construction

* Levy lid lifts

* Voter-approved bonds and special district levies

This means total property tax revenue can grow faster than many residents realize.

Why residents care:

* Clallam County has a large population of retirees and fixed-income homeowners, particularly in Sequim. Rising property taxes can become a financial burden even when incomes remain unchanged.

Discussion questions:

* Are Clallam County residents experiencing property-tax fatigue?

* Are increases being clearly explained to taxpayers?

2. Sequim Growth vs. Property Taxes

What the issue is:

* Sequim and surrounding areas (Carlsborg, Bell Hill, Happy Valley) have experienced steady housing growth and new development.

What actually matters:

* Many residents assume that new housing development lowers taxes for existing homeowners, but in practice it often increases government revenue instead.

New construction:

* Expands the tax base

* Allows jurisdictions to collect more revenue beyond the 1% cap.

Why residents care:

* Some residents support growth believing it will spread the tax burden, while others worry it simply expands government spending.

Discussion questions:

* Does development in Sequim actually reduce taxes?

* Or does it primarily fund larger government budgets?

3. Special District Taxes Few People Understand

What the issue is:

* A large portion of property taxes in Clallam County goes to special districts, including:

* Fire districts

* Hospital districts

* Library districts

* Port districts

Many residents are unaware these districts have independent taxing authority.

What actually matters:

* Each district can propose levies and bonds that appear on ballots separately from city or county taxes.

The cumulative effect can significantly increase property tax bills.

Why residents care:

* A homeowner may vote for several small levies across different elections without realizing how they combine into a larger overall tax burden.

Discussion questions:

* Do voters understand how many different entities can raise property taxes?

* Should tax bills break down these districts more clearly?

4. Port Angeles vs. Sequim — Who Pays More?

What the issue is:

* Property tax rates and property values differ across Clallam County communities.

For example:

* Sequim often has higher property values

* Port Angeles may have different levy structures and district boundaries

What actually matters:

* Two homeowners with similar houses in different parts of the county may pay very different tax bills.

Factors include:

* School district levies

* Fire district levies

* City vs. county jurisdiction.

Why residents care:

* Many residents assume property taxes are uniform across the county, when in reality the structure is highly localized.

Discussion questions:

* Are taxpayers aware of how location affects their property taxes?

* Should tax comparisons be easier for residents to access?

5. The Long-Term Question: Can Clallam County Afford Its Government?

What the issue is:

* Local governments across the Olympic Peninsula face competing pressures:

* Rising service demands

* Limited commercial tax base

* Aging infrastructure

* Population changes.

What actually matters:

* Clallam County relies heavily on residential property taxes compared to counties with larger commercial or industrial tax bases.

This raises long-term questions about:

* sustainability of funding

* economic growth

* tax burdens on homeowners.

Why residents care:

* If the local economy does not diversify, property taxes may continue carrying a large share of funding for public services.

Discussion questions:

* Is Clallam County too dependent on property taxes?

* Should economic development be a tax-stability strategy?

Optional Podcast Closing Question

A strong final discussion prompt:

* “If property taxes are the primary funding source for local government here, what is the long-term plan to keep them sustainable for residents?”

Daylight Saving Time Reminder:

Sunday at 2am, time springs ahead one hour.

Thank you everyone for listening, making time for our podcast in your day, and have a great Saturday the 7th.

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Clallam County Letters:

Next issue comes out Monday, March 9, 2026.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Exploring the Media Void

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Friday dialogue

When media disappears

Exploring the void

This article includes the talking points we covered in our podcast based on the Clallam County Watchdog article ‘Where’s the Media?’ The complete automated transcript of the podcast can be accessed by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

The Core Question: “Where Is the Media?”:

What the article is about:

* The article argues that significant public-safety and government issues in Clallam County are often not being covered by local media outlets, forcing residents to rely on Facebook groups, neighborhood pages, and comment threads to learn what is happening around them.

What actually matters:

* Local journalism traditionally acts as a watchdog over government and public safety issues.

* When reporting disappears or becomes selective, the information vacuum gets filled by social media.

* That changes how communities learn about risk, policy decisions, and accountability.

Why people care:

* People want reliable information about crime, public safety, and government decisions affecting their families.

* If residents are hearing about major incidents through Facebook instead of reporters, it raises questions about:

* Transparency

* Editorial priorities

* Whether difficult stories are being avoided.

Discussion questions:

* What is the core role of a local newspaper or local media outlet today?

* If social media is where people get information first, what does that mean for journalism?

* Is the problem lack of resources, lack of interest, or editorial filtering?

The Carlsborg Incident:

What the article is about:

* The piece describes residents reporting an erratic, possibly drug-influenced individual in Carlsborg frightening families and approaching customers at a gas station. Residents say they only learned about it through social media posts and community warnings.

What actually matters:

* The issue is not just the incident itself.

* The article’s argument is that no formal reporting explained what happened, leaving residents with unanswered questions.

Key unanswered questions raised:

* Who was the individual?

* Was law enforcement involved?

* Was anyone arrested?

* Is the threat ongoing?

Why people care:

* Public safety stories are typically the most basic function of local reporting.

When they go unreported:

* Rumors fill the gap.

* People don’t know whether something is isolated or part of a pattern.

* Community trust in institutions declines.

Discussion questions:

* Is it responsible for media outlets to ignore incidents unless confirmed by authorities?

* Should the media report early when residents are concerned, even if details are incomplete?

* What standard should local journalism follow for community safety alerts?

The Shift to “Citizen Journalism”:

What the article is about:

* The article claims ordinary residents are increasingly acting as de facto reporters, gathering information and sharing warnings online because traditional outlets are not covering certain stories.

What actually matters:

* This raises a larger structural change:

* Old model

* Newspapers investigate

* Citizens read and respond

* New model

* Citizens report events

* Social media spreads them

* Traditional media sometimes reacts later — or not at all.

Why people care:

* Citizen reporting can:

* Spread information quickly

* But also spread misinformation if facts aren’t verified.

* The tradeoff becomes speed vs. credibility.

Discussion questions:

* Is citizen journalism filling a gap — or creating a new problem?

* Should professional media partner with community reporting instead of ignoring it?

* What responsibility do citizens have when posting incidents online?

Transparency and Government Accountability:

What the article is about:

* The article connects the lack of reporting to broader concerns about transparency from local government and public institutions, arguing that difficult questions are sometimes left unasked.

What actually matters:

* Without scrutiny from local media:

* Government decisions receive less public examination.

* Officials face fewer difficult questions.

* Citizens must investigate issues themselves.

* Historically, local reporters attended meetings, filed records requests, and followed stories over months or years.

Why people care:

* Local government controls things that directly affect daily life:

* Public safety

* Taxes

* Land use

* Infrastructure

* Social programs

* If nobody is closely covering those decisions, public oversight weakens.

Discussion questions:

* Are local governments becoming less transparent — or are fewer reporters available to cover them?

* Does the responsibility for oversight now fall on citizens?

* Is the decline of local journalism a structural problem nationwide?

The Big Question for Communities:

What the article is about:

* The underlying argument is that communities may now need to rethink how local information flows if traditional media institutions no longer serve the same role.

What actually matters:

* Communities are facing a new information ecosystem:

* Traditional newspapers shrinking

* Independent blogs and Substacks emerging

* Social media acting as the real-time alert system.

* The challenge is sorting credible information from noise.

Why people care:

* Reliable local information affects:

* Safety decisions

* Voting decisions

* Public trust

* Civic participation.

Discussion questions:

* What should local media actually prioritize covering?

* Are independent outlets replacing newspapers?

* What does a healthy local information ecosystem look like?

The Takeaway:

Summary:

* The article argues that important local stories — especially around public safety and government actions — are increasingly being discovered by residents themselves rather than reported by traditional media.

Final discussion prompt:

* If local media isn’t asking the questions, who should?

YouTube Media:

A look at video content in Sequim, from the high school and the sheriff’s office. Plus a look at content from other sheriff accounts on YouTube, from Polk County in Florida and Pierce County in Washington State.

Sequim GNN, Growl News Network YouTube Channel, 409 subscribers with 325 videos; weekly video March 6, 2026:

Clallam County Sheriff’s Office YouTube Channel, 105 subscribers with 8 videos; Jail Incarceration Process Explained (second most recent video on channel, posted May of 2024):

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd YouTube Channel, 272k subscribers with 1.3k videos; Morning Briefing March 4, 2026:

Pierce County Sheriff’s Office YouTube Channel, 87.2k subscribers with 717 videos; Over the Weekend Update March 2, 2026:

Reminders & Events:

* Heads up for the big weekend event — clocks springing forward one hour as Daylight Saving Time commences Sunday morning. For non-smart devices, time must be adjusted manually as the ancestors once did it, or resist and don’t do it at all and enjoy being an hour behind everyone.

* St. Patrick’s Day reminder — now 11 days away; good weekend to get cards in the mail and order flowers or gift baskets for delivery.

* Sunshine festival on Saturday in Sequim at Carrie Blake Park.

Thank you for listening and have a wonderful Friday the 6th.

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

It’s time for a Friday shot of satire, landing in inboxes at 6:06am today.

This week’s Friday edition includes new multi-ballot voting options, the creation of the first county predictability officer, constituent qualification standards for streamlined democracy, the yearly return of the Sunshine Festival, and a letter to the editor with a radical view of Daylight Saving Time.

Clallam County Letters:

Next issue comes out Monday, March 9, 2026.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Mark Curtis: A Real Conversation

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 28 Feb 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Meeting Mark Curtis

Calico Cat Club member

A town hall update

This article includes only the questions. Answers are in the complete automated transcript of the podcast; it can be accessed by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

Hello, I’m Clallamity Jen. Today I’m in Sequim (at the Watchdog’s Airbnb) interviewing Mark Curtis, a member of the Calico Cat Club in Clallam County, he’s also featured in public comments on the Clallam County Watchdog podcasts. Thank you for doing this interview with me, Mark.

For those listening who don’t know you, and myself, could you please share a little about yourself, as far as how long you have lived in Clallam County and what brought you here?

What is your favorite color?

Back story:

You reached out to me after I did a podcast called Saturday Solutions and talked about the town hall question that Jeff, the Watchdog, has been putting out to local elected officials about whether they would attend. You gave me some great insight into things to consider about putting on a town hall because you were involved with a previous town hall through the People’s Forum, which is part of the Calico Cat Club.

The website is 101independents.com, and I’ll share the link in this article, (is that for Highway 101 or something else)? Could you tell people about the Calico Cat Club, what it does and how it came about?

How did you get involved with the club and how long have you been active in it?

How many people are in the club?

On the website for the club, it includes three prohibited activities, two of them state: shall not Publicly endorse specific candidates or slates of candidates for elected office. Promote nor engage in conversations nor actions regarding national political topics or personalities. Do members respect these prohibitions and follow them, or is it something they need to be reminded of from time to time?

There’s a section on the website called ‘Helping Candidates’ and it states: Helping Inexperienced Candidates Run Credible Campaigns. How many candidates has the club coached through the process of running a campaign in Clallam County?

The People’s Forum held a town hall back in April of 2024, right? How did that come about?

What were the results of that town hall; how long did it run, was it a good turnout, were people pleased with the event?

How many town hall events, or candidate conversations, has the club organized?

What are some of the unknown challenges to organizing these events, for anyone, like myself, who is unfamiliar with everything that goes into it?

The club is now organizing a public safety town hall for Clallam County. How did that come about and how is that going?

Have any elected officials confirmed they will attend?

A submitted question regarding the town hall: Did you invite any Clallam County or City Judges? Thank you very much, especially for having this forum.

If someone in the community has questions for any of the attendees at the town hall, can they submit questions or do they need to attend in person to ask their questions? For instance, I received questions for the judges if they attend; does the club ask questions on behalf of people who submit them, or do people need to attend if they want to questions to ask.

People can email the officials with their questions as well, if they can’t attend?

With the legislature in session right now it adds an extra challenge with scheduling; is there a date set yet or a place?

Does the club have a goal associated with the town hall as far as attendance numbers or amount of elected officials who attend, or is organizing the event for the people the main goal?

Are you looking forward to the event?

What do you enjoy about town hall events, or the candidate conversations?

If people want to get involved with the organizing process, is it recommended they join the club?

What does membership entail?

The website says the club meetings are the first and third Mondays at 6:30pm, held at the Gathering Place in Sunland, 135 Fairway Drive; and the next meeting is March 2nd, 2026. Do people need to join the club to attend?

On the club’s website, it mentions Jefferson County in some places; does the club cover both Clallam and Jefferson Counties?

Why do you think this club is important to Clallam County?

Submitted question:

We saw it with Seattle dollars being funneled into LaTrisha Suggs’ campaign, and we see it with opinion pieces being written by Seattlites and published in our local paper, why do you think Seattle is so interested in Clallam County’s political landscape?

What is the elected position that affects your life the most, all the way from the white house to your HOA?

If you were ruler of Clallam County, what would you change?

What do you like most about living in Sequim or Clallam County?

I’m going to wrap up with my interview tag question: Who would you like me to interview, either in the Watchdog community or someone else in Clallam County? I will do my best to interview whoever you mention, and by mentioning them it gives me a reason to reach out to them — that’s how the ‘tag’ part works.

Do you have anything you’d like to add or share?

Thank you for your time today, Mark, and answering these questions. I hope the listeners learned more about you, the Calico Cat Club and the People’s Forum, and enjoyed hearing local people in Clallam County having a real conversation.

Thank you everyone for listening and making this interview part of your day.

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Sequim Monitor:

A new issue comes out at 6:30am today. I made my first public records request through the City of Sequim. I share how the PRR works, how to make a request, and the results of my first PRR regarding police activity during the week 2/16/26 through 2/20/26.

Clallam County Letters:

Next issue comes out Monday, March 2, 2026.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

State of the County: Fallout Report

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

The fallout report

Sifting through county wreckage

A state of distress

This article includes the talking points we covered in our podcast and links to the articles. The complete automated transcript of the podcast can be accessed by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

Reminders & Info:

* Saturday’s podcast will be an interview with Mark Curtis, a resident of Clallam County and member of the Calico Cat Club which is organizing a public safety town hall.

* Thanks to the Senior Sunset Times and reporter John Kendall for including us in their February 2026 issue, out right now. Jeff Tozzer, the Clallam County Watchdog, is the featured interview on the front page and our interviews start on page 9. We remained anonymous and appreciate that John respected that.

* We picked up some copies at the QFC in Sequim; they are free and located in the newspaper section, on the back of the counter where the self-serve coffee is in the bakery; get some fritters and a free paper and enjoy. The Senior Sunset Times also has space for advertising, along with an online version.

* We enjoyed some of our homemade limoncello while recording the podcast. Here is the recipe that we follow:

The Fallout Report

Compassion vs. Collapse

Article: “Compassion or Collapse? What’s Happening to Clallam County”

What It’s About: This piece looks at visible homelessness, drug use, and public safety issues in places like Sequim and surrounding areas. It questions whether current policies are helping people get better — or just managing the symptoms.

What Matters

* People see more encampments and repeat police contact.

* Programs exist — but it’s unclear how success is measured.

* Citizens are asking: are these policies improving lives long-term?

Why People Care: This isn’t abstract. It affects sidewalks, parks, businesses, and neighborhood safety.

Discussion Questions

* What does “success” actually look like here? Fewer tents? More sobriety? Permanent housing?

* Does Clallam County publish hard numbers on recovery or long-term housing stability?

* Are we funding treatment — or just tolerance?

* How do you measure compassion without confusing it with avoidance?

NGOs & Transparency

Article: “NGOs: Where Transparency Goes to Die”

What It’s About: The article questions how publicly funded nonprofits — particularly in behavioral health — report results. It suggests that while money is visible, outcomes are not.

What Matters

* Taxpayer dollars go to service providers.

* The public doesn’t easily see performance metrics.

* Public records requests are sometimes the only way to get information.

Why People Care: If a private business took public money, it would have to show results. People want to know if the same standard applies here.

Discussion Questions

* Should every publicly funded nonprofit publish quarterly results?

* What specific data would prove the money is working?

* Is “number of people served” the same as “number of people helped long-term”?

* Who audits success — and how often?

Volunteer Cleanups vs. Enforcement

Article: “When Cleanups Aren’t Enough”

What It’s About: This article documents large amounts of trash removed from public areas by volunteers — tens of thousands of pounds in a quarter.

What Matters

* Cleanup keeps happening.

* Trash keeps coming back.

* Volunteers are doing the heavy lifting.

Why People Care: It raises a bigger question: if the same locations require weekly cleanup, is that a policy failure upstream?

Discussion Questions

* Why are citizens repeatedly cleaning the same spots?

* Should cleanup data trigger enforcement changes?

* What is the environmental impact long-term?

* Are volunteers filling a gap government won’t?

Who Gets Heard?

Article: “Who Gets Heard in Clallam County?”

What It’s About: This piece looks at public comment periods at commissioner meetings and questions whether everyday residents have the same influence as activists, attorneys, or outside voices.

What Matters

* Residents typically get short comment windows.

* Some speakers appear to receive more time or greater weight.

* Perception matters — even if procedures are technically equal.

Why People Care

People want to believe their voice matters at the local level.

Discussion Questions

* Does equal time equal equal influence?

* Are working residents at a disadvantage because they can’t attend daytime meetings?

* How should commissioners weigh local taxpayers vs outside advocates?

* What would fair representation look like?

Land & Outside Influence

Article: “Land Back Is 60 Miles Away”

What It’s About: This article discusses broader land-rights narratives and how regional movements intersect with local politics.

What Matters

* There’s concern about outside influence shaping local policy.

* Residents question who local government is most responsive to.

Why People Care: People want local decisions driven by local voters.

Discussion Questions

* How do we distinguish local policy from broader ideological movements?

* Who has the most influence in county decisions?

* Should there be clearer boundaries between local governance and regional/national agendas?

Conclusion:

Across all articles, a few common threads appear:

* Money is visible. Outcomes are less visible.

* Volunteers compensate for enforcement gaps.

* Public trust hinges on measurable accountability.

* Transparency often requires persistent effort.

Final Big Questions

* If you could require three public metrics from the county tomorrow, what would they be?

* Should Clallam County publish a simple annual “results dashboard”?

* Is the issue bad policy — or lack of measurement?

* What would a truly accountable 2026 look like?

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

Start your Friday with the only source of satirical news in Clallam County. Shooting into inboxes at 6:07am today is the Friday Edition from the Strait Shooter — the last one of February 2026.

Stories include the Vision Management Initiative in Port Angeles, the new harm reduction model for academic achievement, a resident’s proposal to say no to fentanyl to avoid overdosing, and a locally published experience-oriented book series that lets readers choose their own nonprofit.

Every article is the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, kind of.

Clallam County Letters:

Next issue comes out Monday, March 2, 2026.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Jake Seegers: A Real Conversation

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 21 Feb 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Weeks in the making

Interview with Jake Seegers

Today is the day

An automated transcript of the podcast can be accessed by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

Look for the Jake Seegers sign at the intersection of Old Olympic Highway and Macleay Road in Sequim.

Many thanks to Jake for making time for this interview and addressing my numerous questions!

Interview Questions (Not all the questions that were asked and not necessarily in this order):

Hello, I’m Clallamity Jen. Today I’m in Sequim (at the Watchdog’s Airbnb) interviewing Jake Seegers, candidate for Clallam County Commissioner District 3. Thank you for doing this interview with me, Jake.

What is your favorite color?

You moved to Clallam County in 2019, after visiting years before. There are political movements in this country that encourage moving to states to increase political influence, such as the Free State Project. Did you move here with the intent to get involved in local politics?

When did you get involved with county government and attending public meetings? Was it a particular issue that made you want to get involved, not with running for commissioner but to become more active with attending meetings?

The priorities page on your website demonstrates to me that you recognize many problems in Clallam County that need addressing. Out of all the priorities, is there one that matters most to you or made you want to run for commissioner?

To address the ideas people may have that your campaign manager, Jeff Tozzer, editor of Clallam County Watchdog, is a puppet master and controlling you. What made you decide to ask Jeff to be your campaign manager?

Are you concerned about his reputation or being associated with him may harm your campaign?

Have you served in public office before? Have you done anything to prepare for your candidacy when it comes to what is required to run for public office (financial disclosures, etc.)?

What’s your understanding about the role of a county commissioner; what do they do?

What authorizes a county commissioner to perform their duties; is it an RCW, or another statute/law?

How long is the term for commissioners?

Do the actions of county commissioners impact all residents in the county? Or are county residents impacted more by what the commissioners do than people who reside in city limits of Port Angeles, Forks, and Sequim?

How would you handle a situation where your personal feelings to help the residents of the county are in conflict with your official duties as authorized by law?

Once a commissioner, you would be one of three, correct?

As one of three, would you be able to do much if the other two commissioners don’t agree with you on an issue? Would you only be a dissenting voice and unable to do something?

If you are on the dissenting side of the other two commissioners, how would you respond to a citizen who says you aren’t doing more in your position?

As a commissioner, would you be required to sit on various boards and committees in Clallam County? Would you take over all 22 board and committee assignments that Mike French currently covers?

Considering what has happened at the pool district with the fraud investigation from state auditors, is it a good system of checks and balances when three commissioners serve on multiple boards and committees?

Do you think government activities should only be reported by local mainstream news outlets, which all come from Sound Publishing; or should citizens also be able to have blogs and websites to share their knowledge, concerns, and jokes about local government?

Not to jinx it, but if for some reason you aren’t elected, what will you do as a citizen of Clallam County? Will you continue to do as you have been doing?

The priorities section on your website states that you will focus on “raising revenue through economic development, instead of taxation.” What kind of economic development would you encourage and want to see happen in Clallam County that would bring in more revenue without relying on taxes?

Submitted Questions/Statements:

When the election takes place, where and how to vote. Do we get ballots in the mail? (Since the primary comes first, could you address that and then the general election)

— — —

This mission statement from Jake. I would lean in hard on this.

“I’m running as an independent because local issues aren’t Republican or Democrat — they’re Clallam County issues.”

Also Jeff on the watchdog at least once a week makes a point of broadcasting that he has zero care what goes on out side the county.

(Clallamity Jen questions based on submission: what does it mean to you to run as an independent? Does it mean you never side with a republican or democrat? Will you make national or state-level issues a focal point of your campaign or in fulfilling your role as a commissioner?)

— — —

1. Can you lower All Taxes including Property if you get in?

2. Can you eliminate the Water/Conservation Position?

3. Can you work on Native Americans paying property taxes or stop them from taking property off the tax rolls.

4. Can you get more trees cut down?

5. Could you get more jobs besides tourism?

6. Can you get rid of Repete? (Recompete?)

7. Can you get better judges?

8. Can you get rid of Harm reduction?

9. Can you stop the homeless from making camps anywhere they wish?

10.Can you stop CCC (clallam county commissioners) from being on every Board there is?

11. Tell the Legacy Tree people to go away. (Didn’t ask)

—— —

I have a question for Jake.

Jake, at last Tuesday’s BoCC meeting, some one hinted he may be running against (you). He was rather bold about his intentions and criticisms of you and your campaign. Do think his running could make your winning the primary more difficult?

———

Hi Jake,

Thank you for stepping forward to defend the liberties of we the people. Your words and actions have given me great hope.

In the past, many well intentiond people have thrown there name in the hat for local government only to be defeated by the tyrants that govern currently. In 2022, during Sue Ford’s campaign, the Republican party put together an elected integrity investigation of our local elections. Blatant fraud was uncovered and presented to the Clallam county auditor only to be discredited through thier KONP mouth piece. It appears to many that the corrupt officials in our county have complete control of the local elections.

What steps will be taken by your campaign to assure that this election won’t be fraudulent like those in the past?

Thank you

Interview Questions Continued:

What do you think has improved in your years living out here, and what do you think has worsened in the same time?

If you were ruler of Clallam County, what would you change?

What do you like most about living in Clallam County?

Who would you like me to interview?

Do you have anything you’d like to add or share?

Thank you for your time today, Jake, and answering these questions. I hope the listeners learned more about you and your candidacy for Clallam County Commissioner District 3; and that they enjoyed hearing local people in Clallam County having a real conversation.

Thank you everyone for listening and making this interview part of your day.

Saturday in Beaver:

Jake Seegers will be doing what he enjoys the most — meeting you, the people of Clallam County, today at the Beaver Grocery Store located at 200361 US-101, Beaver, WA 98305.

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Next issue will be published Monday, February 23, 2026.

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Happy Hour with the Watchdog

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Beach garden cottage

Sipping drinks with the Watchdog

Impromptu podcast

This podcast is an informal discussion without a written outline. Automated transcript of the podcast can be accessed by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

With a long-awaited kitchen project in the works at my home, I enjoyed a midweek Sequimcation at the Watchdog’s 5-Star Airbnb, the Beach Garden Cottage.

For anyone who lives in Clallam County but doesn’t get to enjoy water views outside their windows, the cottage offers a tranquil environment full of cozy comforts inside and charming cottage landscaping outside, courtesy of Doug. These guys are definitely the hosts with the most; as Jeff says, “If you need anything, just ask Doug.”

The view is incredible, with water, islands, Mt. Baker, ducks, seagulls, ships, lighthouses, and people watching thanks to active walkers along the road. A perfect place to enjoy a break from the daily routines without having to leave the peninsula.

On Wednesday night Jeff and I hung out, sipped some homemade Limoncello spritzers (the Limoncello was homemade, not the sparkling water), and recorded a casual conversation.

Topics included changing my name after marriage, people leaving Clallam County, Jeff’s middle school cleaning experience at an infamous murder location (the Exotic Bird Farm murders), educating Jeff about the 1980s movie ‘Kid Colter’ that featured the Joyce General Store, other pop culture references, dishing the dirt, and lots of laughing.

For anyone unfamiliar with Limoncello, here is a recipe similar to the one the Strait Shooter and I followed for homemade Limoncello:

We use organic lemons from QFC in Sequim (best to avoid lemons coated in wax); they also sell Everclear, although we received ours through someone who was decluttering their supply.

Limoncello is a month in the making, since the lemon peels have to soak in the alcohol for at least 30 days. The wait is worth it — so long as it is made with the appropriate amount of sugar syrup (Nonna’s recipe above is the right way).

When it’s not done the right way, this is the result:

To make spritzers, which helps dilute the taste of alcohol, simply mix the Limoncello with some sparkling water and adjust to taste.

This recipe is not for kids, only for adults — and even some adults are probably better off not drinking alcohol:

Thank you for listening, laughing, sharing & subscribing!

Strait Shooter:

Coming out at 6:20am today is the Friday Edition from the Strait Shooter, the only source of satirical news in Clallam County. Stories include proactive real estate listings, tourism marketing for rural communities, questionable celebrations from the commissioners, and more relatable humor that only makes sense to local residents. It’s totally funny, and it’s totally the truth, kind of.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Next issue will be published Monday, February 23, 2026.

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Divided in Sequim

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Divided in Sequim

You’re with them or against them.

What happened to love?

Article includes the ChatGPT synopsis of the CCWD article segments we discussed. Full forecast discussion is available in the automated transcript of the podcast and can be accessed by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

Sequim Monitor poll results:

Are you going to the Sunshine Festival? 20 answered

* 70% No, I’m not interested

* 5% Yes, I’ve gone in previous years

* 25% I don’t know yet

* 0% not if it rains; yes, this will be my first year

Did you know Fire District 3 board meetings were open to the public? 13 answered

* 85% No

* 15% Yes

Podcast: Civic Neutrality, Partisanship, and Community Retaliation in Sequim

CC Watchdog Articles Referenced:

* How the League of Women Voters Lost Its Way (February 5, 2026)

* Filibusters, Fences, and the Cost of Silence (February 9, 2026)

* When Voters Lose Their Voice, Bureaucrats Gain Power (February 11, 2026)

Executive Summary:

Two recent developments in Sequim center on the activities of Indivisible Sequim, its association with the League of Women Voters, and events hosted at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.

Event 1: “Blue Wave Tsunami Time” at St. Luke’s Church

An explicitly electoral organizing event promoted messaging such as:

* “Let’s flip the Senate”

* “Let’s flip the House”

* Phone banking

* Postcard writing

* Primary tracking

* Traveling to districts for get out the vote efforts

The language reflects structured campaign activity rather than neutral civic education. The concern raised is whether a tax-exempt church (501(c)(3)) can host or facilitate partisan campaign organizing without legal or reputational risk.

Event 2: Boycott Pressure Against a Local Business

After a small local business displayed a CC Watchdog sign, social media comments from individuals aligned with Indivisible Sequim included:

* Calls not to patronize the business

* Encouragement to avoid using them as subcontractors

* Public mockery and insult

The issue raised is whether claims of inclusivity and nonpartisanship are consistent with organized economic pressure against businesses expressing opposing views.

Social Media Issue: A woman was told to choose between reading Clallam County Watchdog and Indivisible Sequim.

The social media post as shown on CCWD:

Some in the group know that I read Jeff Tozzer’s column from time to time and asked me to choose between Tozzer and Indivisible Sequim. I said I couldn’t since both were a result of the Constitution and a democratic process of free speech which IS is supposedly standing for. I also invited 40+ people to join and one of them was not liked by an IS moderator and they cancelled the invite. I’ve heard from others at this point that he’s done this before as a moderator. So, not sure if I broke a rule but the group seems to be being run by a few rather than many.

Talking Points:

* The Legal Line for Churches

Under federal law (Johnson Amendment framework), 501(c)(3) organizations:

* May not endorse or oppose candidates.

* May not participate in campaign intervention.

* May conduct neutral civic education.

The event description included operational campaign language (phone banking, get out the vote training, flipping legislative chambers).

Discussion Questions:

* Does hosting such an event constitute facilitation?

* Is the church responsible for content, or merely space rental?

* Where does passive hosting become active participation?

* Issue Advocacy vs. Campaign Strategy

There is a distinction between:

* Educating voters about issues

* Organizing specific electoral outcomes

“Flip the Senate” is outcome-driven language.

Discussion Question:

* At what point does civic engagement become partisan machinery?

* Enforcement Reality vs. Principle

IRS enforcement of campaign violations by churches is historically rare.

So the real question may be less about enforcement and more about:

* Public trust

* Institutional credibility

* Long-term reputational risk

Discussion Question:

* Should standards matter even if enforcement is unlikely?

* Inclusivity — Conditional or Universal?

Indivisible Sequim publicly promotes inclusivity and respect.

However, social media responses included:

* “Not patronizing that business.”

* “Make sure they’re not subcontracting.”

* Personal insults.

Boycotts are legal. So is criticism.

But the question is whether:

* Inclusivity applies to ideological opponents

* Or whether tolerance stops at disagreement

Discussion Question:

* Is inclusivity meaningful if it excludes dissenters?

* Economic Retaliation as a Political Tool

There is a difference between:

* Individual consumer choice

* Organized economic targeting

Small businesses operate on thin margins. Public shaming campaigns can escalate quickly.

Discussion Questions:

* Is organized boycott pressure proportional (does the punishment fit the offense)?

* Does this create a chilling effect for business owners expressing political views?

* The Double Standard Test

Would similar actions be condemned if reversed?

* If conservative groups targeted progressive businesses?

* If a church hosted a right-leaning “flip the House” event?

Consistency is the credibility test.

Discussion Question:

* Are standards applied evenly across political divides?

* Escalation of Purity Politics

Two recurring patterns:

* Ideological litmus tests for participation

* Public pressure to economically isolate dissent

That dynamic shifts community politics from debate to compliance enforcement.

Discussion Question:

* Is this strengthening civic life — or hardening tribal lines?

* Optics vs. Intent

Even if:

* The church believes it is merely hosting

* The organization (LWV/IS) believes it is promoting engagement

* The boycott comments represent only a subset of supporters

Public perception may tell a different story.

Discussion Question:

* How much does optics (perception) matter in maintaining institutional trust?

Friday the 13th, Part IV: The Final Chapter

Crispin Glover wows the girl with his rhythmic moves

Thank you for listening, laughing & sharing!

Upcoming February Interviews:

This coming week I will be interviewing:

* Jake Seegers, candidate for Clallam County Commissioner District 3.

* Mark Curtis, a Clallam County resident and member of the Calico Cat Club, an organization that is in the planning process for a public safety town hall event.

If you have questions you would like me to ask, please submit them in a comment, in a Substack message, or by email clallamityjen@gmail.com. Thank you!.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Next issue will be published Monday, February 16, 2026.

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Friday the 13th Forecast

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

The Friday Forecast

Clallam County horror show

Friday the Thirteenth

To get in the mood for Friday the 13th, during the podcast we had Friday the 13th: A New Beginning (Part 5) muted on our TV. All memes in this article are images from the movie.

From the February 9, 2026, Clallam County Watchdog Article: Filibusters, Fences, and the Cost of Silence

1. Two Square Miles Carry the Load

* Theme:

* Concentration of crime, addiction services, and repeat offenders in central Port Angeles.

* Summary:

* A commenter argues that a roughly two-square-mile area of central Port Angeles contains a disproportionate concentration of social services, MAT clinics, detox, DSHS, transit hub, courthouse releases, and transient sex offenders. Residents describe daily safety concerns and a sense of normalization of disorder. The area is framed as a tourism gateway while also bearing the county’s behavioral-health and justice burden

* Forecast:

* Expect increasing political pressure for geographic redistribution of services.

* Business closures or relocations may accelerate if perception of disorder continues.

* Grassroots organizing (e.g., informal neighborhood associations) will likely emerge.

* PALS - Port Angeles Livability Society

2. When Small Business Hopes Collide With Reality

* Theme:

* Recompete Grant frustration and workforce development misalignment.

* Summary:

* A skilled trades employer describes strong demand for apprenticeships but expresses outrage over how Recompete funding appears to be directed. The core frustration: workforce development money is not translating into livable-wage job pipelines for local youth

* Forecast:

* Federal oversight of grant compliance will tighten.

* If apprenticeship pipelines aren’t funded, expect outward migration of young tradespeople.

* Local employers may begin coordinating independently rather than relying on county leadership.

* This issue could become a campaign focal point in upcoming elections.

3. WorkSource: Serving Some, Excluding Most

* Theme:

* Race-restricted small business grant promotion.

* Summary:

* WorkSource is promoting grants limited to specific racial categories in a county that is majority White. Critics argue this constitutes exclusionary favoritism rather than broad-based workforce support

* Forecast:

* Expect potential civil-rights challenges if eligibility criteria are formally contested.

* Increased polarization around equity programs in rural counties.

* State agencies may adjust messaging to reduce backlash without altering structure.

Here is the email exchange regarding the WorkSource grant that started with an email I sent, featured in the article Exclusive Exclusions:

from: Clallamity Jento: olympicwioa@esd.wa.govdate: Feb 10, 2026, 12:10 AM subject: CRP Business Grant Questions

Hello,

I have questions regarding the CRP Business Grant listed here: https://www.cognitoforms.com/KitsapCounty1/CRPBusinessGrants2026

Under ‘Eligibility’ it states: Funds are prioritized for workforce development and self-attested Black, Latine, Tribal, Asian, Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander owned small businesses.

The ‘Funding Restrictions’ state: all funded activities remain secular and inclusive, in compliance with federal regulations.

The bottom of the application states: WorkSource is an equal opportunity employer/program.

My questions:

When it comes to being inclusive and an equal opportunity program, can whites/caucasians apply for the grant too?

Will whites/caucasians be considered even if they aren’t prioritized due to their race?

Are there any grant opportunities through WorkSource that prioritize whites/caucasians?

Thank you,

Jen

— — —

from: David Herrick to: ”clallamityjen@gmail.com” date: Feb 12, 2026, 10:31 AM subject: Re: CRP Business Grant Questions

Good morning,

The Community Reinvestment Funding is a Washington State Department of Commerce initiative that aims to address historic and systemic barriers to participation in workforce programs by prioritizing outreach to communities that have been historically underrepresented or marginalized, including Black, Latine, Tribal, Asian, Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. Providing grants to Black, Latine, Tribal, Asian, Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander small business owners is not intended to discriminate against any other group but rather ensure that these priority communities have equitable access to services and opportunities.

This is consistent with federal and state equal opportunity laws, including the Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, because the focus is on outreach and engagement to ensure equitable access, not on excluding other groups from services or employment.

If you have any further questions, please let me know.

Respectfully,

David Herrick, MPA

OWDC Workforce Grant Analyst

dherrick@kitsap.gov

— — —

Thank you, David.

I understand, according to your email, that “focus is on outreach and engagement to ensure equitable access, not on excluding other groups” and that it “is not intended to discriminate against any other group.”

Based on your email, I am still left with my original questions:

When it comes to being inclusive and an equal opportunity program, can whites/caucasians apply for the grant too?

Will whites/caucasians be considered even if they aren’t prioritized due to their race?

Are there any grant opportunities through WorkSource that prioritize whites/caucasians?

While it may not be “intended to discriminate” I’d like it to be known that reading the grant information as a white caucasian, it sounds a lot like discrimination against whites/caucasians. I understand it is consistent with laws, and that slavery was once consistent with laws too; black people forced to sit at the back of the bus was also a law. Designing laws to treat groups differently based on their race does not create equality, it creates legalized discrimination.

Please let me know if you are able to answer my specific questions.

Thank you,

Jen

— — —

Jen,

Anyone is welcome to apply, but please understands that these funds were appropriated by the WA State Legislature with the specific purpose of prioritizing certain underserved groups. Therefore, there is an emphasis on supporting businesses owned by individuals from these groups and applications from these communities may receive additional consideration during the evaluation process.

We do not currently have any other business grant opportunities open at this time.

Additionally, if you are a small business owner in need of support, please contact your local WorkSource. Our Business Support Services team can provide a number of serves to help your business. I’ve provided a link below for Employer account registration for your convenience.

Worksource Wa

Respectfully,

David Herrick, MPA

— — —

Thank you, David.

That answered my questions; I was concerned that whites/caucasians couldn’t apply, and I understand other groups are given consideration as that is the intent of the grant.

I’m aware that in your capacity you most likely have no control over these grants; however, if you are able to forward my concerns and feedback up the chain of command I would appreciate it.

What concerns me is that the money for this grant comes from taxpayers of all races because that is the only place governments get their money, and yet the grant is not designed for business owners of all races and groups even if all can apply.

As well, the grant announcement does not make it clear that all are welcome to apply regardless of their racial group, unless I missed that; perhaps clearly stating that all are welcome to apply on future grant announcements would go a long way in avoiding the appearance of discrimination against white/caucasian business owners.

Thank you for your help in this matter.

Jen, taxpaying business owner in Clallam County

From the February 11, 2026, Clallam County Watchdog article: When Voters Lose Their Voice, Bureaucrats Gain Power

4. Harm Reduction, Expanded—Quietly

* Theme:

* Administrative expansion of harm reduction via Salish BH-ASO (Salish Behavioral Health Administrative Services Organization).

* Summary:

* Commissioners are set to extend an agreement with Salish BH-ASO, which supports expanded harm reduction strategies. Critics argue voters are not directly consulted on policy direction.

* Forecast:

* Harm reduction expansion will continue administratively unless ballot measures intervene.

* Expect growing calls for public safety town halls.

* Budget reallocations toward behavioral health will increasingly compete with law enforcement funding.

5. A Sword, a Struggle, and a Swift Release

* Theme:

* Repeat violent offender cycle.

* Summary:

* A man injured deputies during arrest, was released, then rebooked weeks later. Raises concerns about repeat-offender cycles and resource drain

* Forecast:

* Increased calls for bail reform or sentencing reform.

* Law enforcement morale issues may intensify.

* A high-profile incident could catalyze emergency policy sessions.

6. Tax, Spend, Repeat — While Businesses Plan Their Exit

* Theme:

* Layered taxation proposals amid economic strain.

* Summary:

* Discussion of cultural access tax, criminal-justice tax, property tax increases, conservation fees, and potential short-term rental taxes, while tribal corporations remain tax-exempt

* Forecast:

* Small business flight risk increases if tax layering continues.

* Expect public referendums or initiative efforts.

* Property owners may see accelerated valuation disputes.

* If recession conditions materialize statewide, new tax proposals may stall—but structural spending patterns likely won’t.

Friday the 13th, Part V: A New Beginning

Jason chase scene sped up and set to Yakety Sax (Benny Hill Theme)

Thank you for listening, laughing & sharing!

Strait Shooter:

Add a shot of local satire to your coffee with the Strait Shooter Friday the 13th edition, out today at 6:13am. Learn about the commissioners’ new sponsor jackets, the tidiness initiative for the homeless, the outdated Port Angeles City Council zoom meetings, a YouTuber’s documentary of the Clallam County Sheriff, and growing concerns about a new independent investigative reporter at the Olympic Herald. Is it funny? Yes. Is it true? Kind of.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Next issue will be published Monday, February 16, 2026.

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Talking Scams & Sequim

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 07 Feb 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

It’s all about Sequim

Scam alerts and awareness

Getting connected

The article contains the information we discussed in the podcast. The complete automated transcript of the podcast can be accessed by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

Why scam awareness matters in Sequim — the older population:

Google AI: Sequim, Washington, is characterized by a significantly older, retirement-oriented population, with a median age of approximately 60.3 years. Nearly 40% of residents are aged 65 or older. The demographic is largely white (approx. 83%), with a, 1.85 average household size, and a high percentage of residents (approx. 29%) living alone in the 65+ age group.

Key Age Demographic Highlights (Approximate Data)

* Median Age: 60.3

* Age 65+: 36%–42%

* Age 50–64: ~20–22%

* Under 18: ~15–16%

* Gender: 55.6% Female / 44.4% Male

Because of the large population of older residents in the Sequim area, we wanted to talk about a few scams so more people are aware of these and what to do to protect against them.

Scamp attempt this week — a text on my phone:

Text scam with 706 area code (Georgia area code)

Traffic violation unresolved, payment due by 2/6/26.

WA State DOL Final Notice

Traffic violation associated with your account remains unresolved. Final reminder payment hasn’t been received.

In accordance with RCW Title 46 if full payment not submitted by 2/6/26 following enforcement actions will be initiated:

Violation recorded with WA DOL

Revocation of vehicle registration 2/7/26

Suspension of driver’s license for minimum of 30 days

Referral of debt to collections agency with fee up to 35%

Potential legal proceedings and adverse credit reporting

To avoid penalties settle payment immediately through official payment portal: w a . g o v - o a a . c c / d o l

Two free websites that verify URLs:

* URLvoid.com

* transparencyreport.google.com/safe-browsing/search?hl=en

I ran the wa.gov website from the text scam through both free websites; here are the reports from URLvoid.com (top) and transparencyreport.google (below):

The 3-Second Silent Call from SafeSenior YouTube Channel:

Ever answer the phone to a few seconds of dead silence? That awkward pause isn't a mistake; it's a high-tech test to see if your number is "live." We explain exactly why saying nothing is your most powerful defense.It's simple to defeat their system and get off their target list.

Never Say Yes on the Phone The New Social Security Scam:

Your voice can be used against you. We show you why you must never say "YES" to a stranger on the phone.It's easy to protect yourself from this new scam.

City of Sequim February 2026 Newsletter: Tax Scam Alert

The Sequim Police Department is warning the public that it is common this time of year for tax scam phone calls with callers claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and demanding payment for money owed. The public is advised to be cautious and to never give personal information over the phone.

If you receive a call that you suspect is a scam, do not give any personal information and hang up. The Washington State Attorney General’s Office has set up an online blog where consumers can report phone scams. Go to the Attorney General’s website and search for phone scams.

The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages, or social media channels to request personal or financial information. Visit the IRS website to learn how to recognize the telltale signs of a scam.

Scam avoidance tips — What we do:

* Don’t answer the phone or respond to texts when we don’t recognize the phone number

* Official government agencies send mail; we respond to mail from official agencies, not texts, emails, or unsolicited phone calls.

* We don’t give out our information for sweepstakes, free offers, etc.

Connecting to Sequim:

Sequim Monitor article, Connecting to Sequim, from Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

Poll question: Do you feel connected to what is happening in Sequim?

* 82% no

* 18% yes

* (28 answers, as of noon on 2/6/26)

Lots of people relocate to Sequim — Welcome to all those who are new to Sequim, or those who have never received an official ‘welcome to Sequim’. Welcome!

Google AI: Significantly more people live in the unincorporated county area surrounding Sequim than within the city limits. While the City of Sequim has a population of approximately 8,200, over 31,000 people live within the broader 98382 zip code area, which covers a much larger area of unincorporated Clallam County.

* City Limits: The city, covering only about 6.37 square miles, has a population of roughly 8,200.

* Unincorporated County (98382 Zip Code): The broader area served by the city (98382) covers about 171 square miles, hosting over 31,000 residents.

* Impact: The city center serves a much larger population than its municipal borders suggest, providing services for residents living in the surrounding rural area.

City of Sequim Notifications — Stay Connected:

* Visit SequimWa.Gov

* Click the banner on the homepage (above image)

* Follow directions

* Visit SequimWa.Gov

* Scroll down to the ‘Popular Links’ section (above image)

* Click ‘Sign Up for Notifications’

* Follow directions

My Disconnection Solutions:

* Use the Sequim Monitor to keep people informed of what is happening in Sequim, and to continue keeping an eye on Sequim, even if the information is from the notices put out by the city.

* People are welcome to submit articles, documents, photography, local events for publication in the Sequim Monitor to inform others about what is happening.

Thank you for listening, laughing & sharing!

Strait Shooter:

Make Saturday better with the only source of local satire in Clallam County. While it may be one day old, it is not stale. Friday’s edition includes: the newest ‘I’m Helping’ initiative that’s sweeping the county, the non-local local weather, the challenge for kids learning guitar in Sequim, and questionable blatant transparency from a Port Angeles City Councilman. It’s too funny to be true, and yet it is the truth, kind of.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Next issue will be published Monday, February 9, 2026.

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

The Friday Forecast

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

The Friday Forecast

A review of Watchdog news

How will the winds blow?

Google AI: A forecast is a calculated prediction of future conditions, events, or trends based on the analysis of historical data, current trends, and, sometimes, expert judgment.

Forecast discussion inspired by the Clallam County Watchdog article from Monday, February 2, 2026: Hold Onto the Base So You Don’t Lose It!

⸻

SEGMENT 1 — What “Compassion” Looks Like Now (Title: You Paid for This)

READ ALOUD: This story argues that Clallam County leaders have redefined compassion in a way many residents don’t recognize anymore.

The county approved funding for drug-use harm-reduction kits — including materials explaining rectal drug use — at a cost of roughly one hundred thousand dollars.

Officials frame this as public health. Critics see it as taxpayer-funded enabling.

The key issue isn’t whether harm reduction exists — it’s whether the county has any clear boundary between reducing harm and normalizing dangerous behavior.

PAUSE — DISCUSS YOUR FORECASTS

SEGMENT 2 — Rules Used to Matter… Until They Didn’t (Title: No Papers Required, Except When They Were Required)

READ ALOUD: The article highlights a sharp contrast in enforcement.

During COVID, residents were required to show vaccine proof to eat indoors.

Today, many basic rules — from public safety concerns to encampment impacts — are treated as optional or unenforceable.

The author’s argument is simple: rules are enforced when it’s easy and ignored when it’s uncomfortable.

PAUSE — DISCUSS YOUR FORECASTS

SEGMENT 3 — Public Safety Complaints That Go Nowhere (Title: Just Tell Your Son to Walk Another Way)

READ ALOUD: One example in the article describes residents raising concerns about an unstable individual repeatedly blocking sidewalks near a school route.

Law enforcement declined to intervene, saying the sidewalk wasn’t technically blocked.

The concern wasn’t politics — it was safety.

The response communicated that unless a problem fits neatly into a checkbox, it may be ignored.

PAUSE — DISCUSS YOUR FORECASTS

SEGMENT 4 — Environmental Priorities vs. Human Reality (Title: Tumwater Creek, Boots on the Ground)

READ ALOUD: The article also points out a contradiction in environmental policy.

Grants and planning documents focus on ecosystems and forestry while ignoring human waste, trash, and encampments that are actively damaging those same environments.

In other words, officials talk about protecting nature while ignoring what’s actually happening on the ground.

PAUSE — DISCUSS YOUR FORECASTS

SEGMENT 5 — How “Local” Is Your Local Paper?

READ ALOUD: Out of 19 stories in a recent local newspaper edition, only three were actually local:

• A rodeo arena upgrade

• Jefferson County’s homeless count

• A local teen running for senate

The other 16 stories covered issues like federal government actions, national politics, foreign events, and economics — not decision-making that affects life here in Clallam County.

That means only about 15.8% of the “local” paper’s coverage was truly local — in a county dealing with rising taxes, growing encampments, and active government decisions.

There was plenty of international intrigue, and very little accountability close to home.

“The press is no longer a watchman; it is often a participant.” — Walter Lippmann.

PAUSE — DISCUSS YOUR FORECASTS

SEGMENT 6 — Sign Permits Matter — But Camps Don’t

READ ALOUD: The City of Sequim recently reminded residents why sign permits are essential — for aesthetics, safety, and community character.

Right after that reminder, the article highlighted a growing homeless encampment that is unpermitted, unmanaged, and environmentally destructive — and has received no enforcement, citations, or urgency from city leadership.

If sign permits matter for community character, why do unpermitted encampments seem to go without consequence?

PAUSE — DISCUSS YOUR FORECASTS

SEGMENT 7 — From County Payroll to Drug-Use Advocacy

READ ALOUD: A local professional, once a Clallam County harm-reduction specialist, is now Director of Operations for a nonprofit that openly supports people who use drugs “however they envision and define their lives” — explicitly rejecting deterrence or criticism.

According to the article, this nonprofit model now mirrors the county’s adopted approach to harm reduction.

PAUSE — DISCUSS YOUR FORECASTS

SEGMENT 8 — “Everything Was Healthy Back Then”

READ ALOUD: The Jamestown Corporation’s CEO stated that rivers were healthy 50 years ago — water was abundant and sea levels stable.

Local readers pointed out contradictions:

• If rivers were healthy then, why remove protective infrastructure like the Towne Road dike?

• Why spend taxpayer money on restoration if nothing was damaged?

When you include clear-cutting, wetland development, commercial fishing expansion, and other impacts, the rhetoric doesn’t square with local experience.

PAUSE — DISCUSS YOUR FORECASTS

Thank you for listening, laughing & sharing!

Strait Shooter:

Add a shot of satire to your coffee with the Strait Shooter Friday edition, out today at 6:06am. Learn about the newest ‘I’m Helping’ initiative that’s sweeping the county, the non-local local weather, the challenge for kids learning guitar in Sequim, and questionable blatant transparency from a Port Angeles City Councilman. It’s too funny to be true, and yet it is the truth, kind of.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Next issue will be published Monday, February 9, 2026.

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

A Real Conversation with Denise Lapio

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Denise Lapio

A real conversation

Who is she really?

(Click the ‘Transcript’ button under the podcast box at the top of the article to read the full transcript)

Interview location: Rainshadow Cafe at 157 West Cedar Street, Sequim, WA.

Hello, I’m Clallamity Jen.

Today I’m in Sequim interviewing Denise Lapio, a well-known public commenter at Clallam County board of commissioner meetings and she is part of the CC Watchdog community. Thank you for doing this interview with me, Denise.

For those listening who don’t know you, and myself, could you please share a little about yourself, starting with how long you have lived in Clallam County?

What brought you here?

For the years you have been here, have you always lived in Sequim, or did you live anywhere else in Clallam County?

Comment question from Jennifer:

* What is her history and background with Clallam County.

Questions from Jeff the Watchdog:

* How is she so even-tempered?

* Has she ever lost her temper?

* Can she share her personal views of the 3 county commissioners?

* Why is she such a strong advocate for children?

* How involved in local politics was Denise before she moved to Sequim?

* Can you talk about your political evolution? Who were you (politically) in your 20s, 30s, 40s, etc?

* Will she stay in Clallam County no matter what, or is there a point at which she would move away?

* What does her husband think about her involvement in local governance?

* How did she catch onto CC Watchdog?

* What article most resonated with her?

* What article did she most disagree with or have criticisms of?

* What would she like to see reported more in CC Watchdog?

Comment questions from Dr. Sarah:

* You’ve been someone I’ve noticed showing up consistently at commissioner meetings. What was the moment or issue that moved you from listening to actually stepping up to the microphone?

* Before you speak, what’s your process? What are you listening to or sitting with that makes you decide, okay, this is the moment to say something?

* A lot of the time, your comments seem to put words to things people are feeling but haven’t quite named yet. Is that something you’re consciously trying to do, or does it just emerge from how you’re experiencing what’s happening?

* Are there times you’ve felt truly heard in those meetings? And on the flip side, what makes public engagement start to feel more performative than meaningful?

* If you could leave both residents and commissioners with one reminder about what good public participation should look and feel like, what would that be?

So looking forward to this interview, thank you, CJ and Denise, for the courage to show up and have this conversation.

Questions from Clallamity Jen:

In the CC Watchdog article ‘Ousted by Ozias’ how much time did you put into researching the names of individuals being appointed to various boards that appears in the meeting agendas, in order to compare them to the appointment of Derrick Eberle whose name wasn’t included in the agenda?

How many articles or submissions have you made to CC Watchdog?

Have you ever served in public office? Do you plan to, or want to?

Why is transparency important to you?

Regarding a public record I found in a commissioners meeting agenda packet from December 30, 2025, a letter to Loni Gores, clerk of the board of county commissioners along with the commissioners; you pointed out that the public address system at the December 16, 2025 regular meeting referred to you as “Didn’t he slap you as to Quinn Washington.”

Have they fixed this in the public address system?

Are you as active in Sequim civic matters, or does Clallam County interest you more?

If you were ruler of Clallam County, what would you change?

What do you like most about living in Sequim?

What is your favorite color?

Do you have anything you’d like to add or share?

Thank you for your time today, Denise, and answering these questions. I hope the listeners learned more about you and enjoyed hearing local people in Clallam County having a real conversation.

Thank you everyone for listening and making this interview part of your day.

Thank you for listening, laughing & sharing!

Strait Shooter:

Take time to laugh this weekend with the Strait Shooter Friday edition. Learn about the newest voter initiative to vote in other states without moving, commissioner bait, emergency preparedness, and elected officials learning that other people can hear what they say. It’s too funny to be true, and yet it is the truth, kind of.

Sequim Monitor:

Get the latest about the psychiatric hospital, Jamestown Salish Seasons, that plans to open in Sequim later in the year. This AI-generated article focuses on the critical concerns and counterpoints that aren’t mentioned in a recent Sequim Gazette article about the facility:

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

A Real Conversation: The CC Watchdog Conspiracy

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

CC Watchdog blog

Is it a conspiracy?

Only on Nextdoor

There is not a script for this podcast, only talking points from research. The automated transcript of the podcast is available by clicking the ‘transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of the article.

Podcast Overview:

* My husband and I discuss conspiracy theories

* What one is and examples of proven conspiracies

* And how the Clallam County Watchdog blog is called out for sharing conspiracy theories

* According to users on Nextdoor who do not read the blog but claim to know what it is about

Conspiracy Talking Points:

* Google AI: A conspiracy theory is a belief that a secret, powerful, and often malevolent group is responsible for a major, usually negative, event or situation. These narratives reject official explanations, relying on suspicions of hidden plots, cover-ups, and lack of conventional evidence, often serving to make sense of confusing or traumatic events. (Source)

* Google AI: Conspiracy does not have to occur in private. While often covert, a conspiracy is defined legally as an agreement between two or more people to commit a crime, often requiring just one overt act—even an innocuous, public one like sending an email, phone call, or meeting—to further the plot. (Source)

* CCWD: “A WOKE team of truthful PhD’s who can go up against master manipulation in a blog need to read up on what’s being posted to the Clallam County Watchdog Substack account and start a counter blog with peer review facts. ASAP“ (Facebook post from CC Watchdog article, I’m Not a Racist, You’re Not a Hypocrite)

* Google AI: Notable examples of claims that were widely dismissed before being proven true include:

* The Tuskegee Syphilis Study: For decades, it was a “conspiracy theory” that the U.S. government was secretly experimenting on Black men. It was revealed in 1972 that the U.S. Public Health Service had, since 1932, deliberately withheld treatment for syphilis from over 600 African American men to study the disease’s long-term effects, even after penicillin became widely available as a standard treatment.

* Project MKUltra: Rumors circulated for years about the CIA running a mind-control program involving non-consensual drug experiments. In the 1970s, it was confirmed that the CIA had a secret research program where it subjected U.S. and Canadian citizens to high doses of LSD, hypnosis, and other forms of psychological torture to explore mind control methods.

* Watergate: The initial claims that President Nixon and his aides had conspired to cover up a burglary at the Democratic Party headquarters were widely dismissed by the administration as a “conspiracy theory”. Reporting by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein, among others, eventually revealed the true nature of the conspiracy, leading to Nixon’s resignation.

* The FBI and John Lennon: It was a long-standing “conspiracy theory” that the FBI was spying on John Lennon due to his anti-war activism. Documents released years later confirmed the surveillance efforts and the Nixon administration’s attempts to have him deported. (Source)

* Google AI: Dismissing a claim as a “conspiracy theory” is a rhetorical strategy that can, in many contexts, function to silence or delegitimize opposition by shifting the focus away from the evidence and onto the credibility of the speaker. While this tactic is designed to marginalize fringe views, its effectiveness is subjective and often perceived differently by various audiences, sometimes leading to the belief that the dismissal itself is a cover-up. (Source)

Thank you for listening, laughing & sharing!

Strait Shooter:

Enjoy a satirical start to the weekend with the Strait Shooter Friday edition, out today at 6:10am. Find out about the newest voter initiative to vote in other states without moving, commissioner bait, emergency preparedness, and elected officials learning that other people can hear what they say. It’s too funny to be true, and yet it is the truth, kind of.

Sequim Monitor:

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Saturday Solutions

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

So many problems

It's solution Saturday

Let's talk about that

Big Cat Update:

The big cat mountain lion returned Friday night a little after 7pm, about 39 hours after its last visit; it was hanging out around the bunny hutches; this time our camera alerted us after it had recorded one clip, and then we continued to watch it in real time until it left the property.

Nothing happened to the bunnies and my husband reported it to the local authorities, though the animal division isn’t back until Monday morning and the report will be passed on to them. I posted a new video on YouTube showing the camera footage:

Making Solutions:

(I used my Echo Show 8 device, a.k.a Alexa, while doing dishes to dictate my ideas for this podcast; it took what I said and put it into an outline. This article is a mix of Alexa’s outline and my own writing; the ideas are all mine, the difference is Alexa used better language.)

For all the problems, there are solutions.

While the goal is to solve a problem, sometimes problems can’t be solved — for instance, getting Mark Ozias to answer a question directly and to the point — but I don’t think that means it’s a reason not to try and find solutions because it can still lead to something good.

I wanted to highlight a few of the solutions I see being implemented in the Watchdog community.

* Food and Finance Podcast: Information Sharing as a Solution

* The end of Jennifer’s comment: How to stop the abuse? I don’t know, how can the Food Bank separate one from the other? I don’t think they can income wise.

* Since the food bank is prohibited from asking about people’s income, it doesn’t fall on them to address that issue.

* How can the issue be addressed then?

* My solution is through individuals. I’m not interested in asking people to tell me their income so I can school them; what I did do is make a podcast sharing my own experience with financial struggles and poverty-level incomes, and “connecting the dots between financial discipline and food security,” as another comment by Neural Foundry stated.

* When people listen to the podcast and learn from it; and share it with others so they may learn from it too, that is information sharing as a solution.

* Clallam County Watchdog’s article, Not Their Park to Give Away: Engagement as a Solution

* A comment from No One Important stated at the end: We MUST get the word out to all, and quickly! What can I do to help, Jeff?

* Jeff’s response: You're doing it! Spreading the word helps and is effective.

* Evidence of impact:

* Increasing subscriber count: 3,791 subscribers in just over 2 years

* Rising download numbers: over a million podcast downloads now

* Increase in public attendance: Over 60 people attended the RV ordinance commissioner meeting, with another 50 online. Even Towne Road didn't draw those numbers.

* Significance of information dissemination: That happened because people are reading Jake Seeger's articles and becoming more engaged.

* Community engagement is an active solution; and sharing information online and being a digital warrior in the 21st Century fosters community engagement in cyberspace.

* Photography: Visual Documentation as a Solution

* Capturing real-life street views in local communities

* Powerful alternative for non-writers to share experiences

* Imagery as a universal language to convey community issues

* Enhancing awareness through visual storytelling

* Facilitating information spread via compelling visuals

* By providing a form of visual documentation of what is happening in a community, on the public streets, where not everyone goes every day, this becomes a solution in that it is information sharing that is openly available to the public when posted on free blogs.

* 4PA: Hands-On Community Cleanup as a Solution

* Nonprofit organization tackling Clallam County cleanliness

* Addressing homeless encampments and environmental concerns

* Removing debris, garbage, and litter from city and county areas

* Improving local environmental conditions

* Enhancing quality of life for residents

* Cleaning debris and hazardous waste in order to improve the environment and increase the qualify of life for those in Clallam County is a solution that 4PA provides that all can enjoy the benefits of, and they deserve being supported for what they do.

* Alternative Information Platforms: Fostering Community Engagement

* Substack blogs: Interactive platforms for community dialogue

* Direct author-reader communication channels

* Commenters and readers can connect with the author of the articles, unlike newspapers that keep the reader disconnected from the writer and the editor

* Free, localized information about cities and counties

* The more people learn about where they live, the more they become engaged in where they live

* Filling gaps left by mainstream and legacy news outlets

* Clallam County cannot rely on Sound Publishing alone; without Clallam County Watchdog, and other alternative information sources, the people out here would continue to be in the dark about issues that actually matter.

* Such as a county commissioner discussing plans to hand off a public park to the Jamestown Corporation without public input, as CC Watchdog reported on; or a local judge appointing his close personal friend to represent a murder suspect, as reported by the Olympic Herald.

* Diverse content formats enhancing information accessibility

* More information is able to get to more people online than in a newspaper; and even though mainstream media has their news online, the content is the same across the board — it lacks critical investigative thought.

* For those who don’t rely on a newspaper or mainstream media for their sources of information, blogs and online websites run by independent writers is another solution that creates community engagement.

* Creating Community as a Solution

* Alleviates isolation

* Strength in numbers

* Watchdog community benefits

* Provides connection between people

* Whether they are local or living far apart, they create a connection that makes them community in an online setting

* Offers direction, inspires action

* For those who are unsure of what they can do, articles on the Watchdog offer suggestions of attending meetings and redressing government

* Commenters sharing what they are doing also inspires action

* These are all solutions

* Redressing Government as a Solution

* Expressing concerns to elected officials:

* Sharing responses (or lack thereof) with others

* Illuminating the communication process

* Information sharing as a key to understanding

* Citizen-Organized Town Halls: Empowering Community Voices as a solution

* Grassroots initiative in response to local commissioners’ inaction

* Collaboration with interested elected officials from various capacities

* Platform for community members to voice concerns collectively

* Demonstration of public interest and engagement in local issues

* Catalyst for dialogue between citizens and representatives

* Potential springboard for developing community-driven solutions

* Highlights official disengagement if local representatives fail to attend

* Serves as a record of community efforts to engage with their government

* I shared a guide for a Citizen’s Town Hall in my article When Grievances Go Unanswered

* I am interested in making a town hall happen with others who want the same; it doesn’t take a formal committee, just people who want to make it happen getting together to brainstorm.

* The guide recommends a grange hall as an ideal location; here is the website to the Sequim Prairie Grange where meeting space is available to rent.

* For anyone who has experience in event planning on this level, please reach out to me with ideas to figure this out. This is a solution that Clallam County needs.

Thank you for listening & sharing!

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

The “F” Words: Food & Finance

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Intro Haiku:

Let’s talk the “F” words

Connecting food to finance

Sharing what I’ve learned

But first, a couple memes inspired by my morning:

Finding a typographical error on the latest issue of Clallam County Letters got me out of bed; for anyone who had their day thrown off by reading the date of January 12, 2026, I sincerely apologize.

As if that wasn’t enough to start my day, then my husband asked me about the video footage from our blink cameras, which I shared in my midday Friday post featuring the wild cat that came on our property at 4am.

Thank you to everyone who commented with concern, and also to the Watchdogger who contacted me by email letting me know it was his cat — he had video footage from earlier this year of a big wild cat roaming around.

While nothing terrible happened, it reminded us to not be lax in our personal security on our property, with our animals and ourselves. My regular afternoon visit to the bunnies with their greens and doing egg collection with the chickens included my husband going with me. So, it made for an eventful day in our little corner of the woods.

The “F” Words:

Coming out on the Sequim Monitor today is a follow-up question and answer exchange between Andra Smith, Executive Director of the Sequim Food Bank, and myself with questions submitted from commenters along with my own questions.

That article will be published at 7am today, Friday, January 23rd; I recommend it for anyone who wonders about means testing, as that was one of the questions left in a comment. Andra addresses means testing in great detail, since I had more questions about it, and it provides a lot of insight into how the Sequim Food Bank operates based on the regulations they have to follow, as well as their own values and mission. Super informative for anyone who doesn’t know how food banks operate, myself included.

So, that’s the first F — food.

And understanding after reading Andra’s answers that means testing is not what they do, and based on many comments I read on CC Watchdog that is something that concerns people; that there may be clients at the food bank who have more need and clients with less need are taking away from those with more need, and how can it be known if there is no means testing, as in proof of income for example.

I get that, and I understand it when commenters point out the nice cars people drive to the food bank, and what they have seen with their own eyes; it makes them question what they’re seeing and I’ve experienced that myself, not at the food bank but other non-profits. Even though I tell myself they could be picking up for someone else and I don’t know their situation, it’s easy to question legitimate need.

So, I know there are people with more need, and there are also people with more finances, and sometimes people with more finances have needs; and I know from my own experience that not everyone in need goes to a food bank or non-profit organization for help.

Here is when I get into the second “F” — finance!

When we were struggling financially and I discovered we could have qualified for food assistance, we never went that route; we never went to a food bank and we never applied for assistance. My own experience tells me that for all those people who are in need and going to a food bank, there are likely others in need who don’t go, for whatever reason.

So, when people express concern about those most in need not getting help at a food bank due to those with less need using the resources, there are still people in the community who have need and they may not be known because they don’t go to the food bank; just something to keep in mind since those people can be overlooked.

Now, when it comes to connecting food to finance, here is my issue, and I think this ties in to people’s concerns when what looks like someone with money, based on their vehicle for example, is going to the food bank.

I asked Google AI: do people with high incomes go to food banks

Yes, rising inflation and the high cost of living have driven more people with higher, even six-figure, incomes to utilize food banks. These individuals often face acute financial strain from debt or unexpected expenses, making food banks necessary for survival despite higher salaries.

Key points regarding higher-income users of food banks:

* Inflation Impact: High inflation is leading to food insecurity across various income levels, with many middle-class households needing extra help.

* “Hidden” Insecurity: Some individuals with high incomes live paycheck to paycheck and use food banks to bridge budget gaps.

* Lack of Income Requirements: Many food pantries do not require income verification, allowing anyone in need of food to access services.

* Shifting Demographics: Food banks are experiencing increased demand from people who do not qualify for government aid like SNAP but still cannot afford adequate groceries.

While the majority of users are low-income, the “working poor” and middle-class earners are increasingly turning to food banks as an essential resource.

So, right there — people with higher incomes do go to food banks. Does this mean they are taking away resources from those with lower incomes? Maybe, maybe not; I can’t say for sure, other than it can look that way but I really don’t know.

Now, in a recent Substack post from Neural Foundry titled ‘UBI or We’re Screwed Part 2,’ he (I think it’s a he) talks about the looming white collar job losses that will be happening caused in part by AI. His statement here is no joke:

A massive share of renter households spend more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities. That means millions of people are one bad month away from crisis, even before you add job disruption into the picture.

Bringing this back to food — for all these white-collar workers who make good money, if they don’t have their finances in order they may start depending on food banks.

When I read this post from Neural Foundry, and that section specifically, all that came into my mind is Dave Ramsey.

For those unfamiliar with Dave Ramsey, he is a “finance expert, author, and radio show host who has helped people manage their money since 1992,” according to a quick snippet I found online.

On my Clallamity Jen blog, I have a tabbed section called Financial Fitness, and it includes a link to Dave Ramsey’s book, The Total Money Makeover; the link is for a free online version, and this book is what kicked my butt into gear while dealing with the aftermath of foreclosure, bankruptcy, and my back taxes which bankruptcy doesn’t clear if anyone was wondering.

When we started to improve our finances, which was when I discovered we could qualify for food assistance, we didn’t have a high 5-figure income; and the fact is, based on the Google search I did, and the excerpt from Neural Foundry which reads like something out of The Total Money Makeover, there are people with high incomes who are using food banks and more are likely to turn to food banks — and that is who my podcast is directed at.

Stop being lazy with your finances!

I’m not talking about people with disabilities who can’t work, or seniors who can’t work due to age; I am talking about able-bodied people either with high incomes who are lazy in their finances, or able-bodied low incomes earners who are also lazy in their finances.

While Dave Ramsey has his famous baby steps, which I have followed, I wanted to share some of my own steps I had to incorporate to improve our finances so that we weren’t dependent on others for food.

First, get off the pot & focus:

On BizBuySell.com there is currently a pot shop/dispensary for sale in Port Angeles that shows an annual revenue of $1,000,000. Now, this is a touristy area so I don’t suspect that all those sales are from locals; however, I do suspect a large amount of those sales are from locals, especially since this isn’t the only pot shop in the area.

Speaking from my own experience with pot and having done enough of it to know more than a thing or two, I know for myself that clouding the mind does not help achieve financial fitness; whether it’s pot, alcohol, or any stimulant that causes the mind to lose focus, it’s not helping, so stop it.

It’s also a waste of money, which having been in a financial hole myself, I know that money spent on vices like that will not make the hole go away; it only makes the hole deeper.

Second, do the books & stop digging:

It’s hard to know how to get out of a hole when you don’t know what kind of hole you are in. If it’s a six-inch hole, it’s not too hard; if it’s a 30-foot hole, it’s a lot harder especially if you don’t know you’re in that deep — that’s where bookkeeping comes into play.

I’m not talking budgeting, which is the main “B” word that is always used, and I personally can’t stand it. I do bookkeeping; I still don’t grasp budgeting, though I understand it, but doing the math never made sense to me. I’ve heard I’m supposed to basically guess what the income will be for the coming month, and then adjust spending accordingly.

Well, what if my guess is wrong? To me that would throw off my spending when what I guess doesn’t match with what really comes in. So, I do bookkeeping; I add up receipts, add up the income, and make sure the receipts for what goes out is not more than what comes in.

When I was working a part-time job in housekeeping while still dealing with my back tax issue, I had a good relationship with a resident who was a retired CPA; I thought if I could ask her one question, what would it be — how do I get out of my situation? She told me to start keeping track of all my spending. I didn’t like the idea of it, and I don’t think I started doing it right away, but I’m here to say she was right. That was what I had to do to see where our money was going so we could figure out how to stop our bad spending habits.

Believe it or not, a lot went to food — eating out, grocery shopping, and none of it with a schedule. It was horrendous when I look back on the books from 2017 when I first took control by doing the books which got us to stop digging our hole so we could work out of it.

Now, 9 years later, we’re out of that hole, we have savings, we have better income, we have no more back taxes — which our refunds were always taken when my back taxes were still outstanding — we have organized books, we have retirement, we have financial fitness and two fridges full of food.

We did this not on a six figure income; in 2018 we were around $30,000 a year with one income that supported both of us, and that amount actually would have qualified us for a Habitat for Humanity house based on a sign I saw at a First Fed Bank in Port Angeles; while food assistance was never a life goal of mine, it didn’t feel good either to see what we could qualify for.

I’m not putting down people who use those services; it’s just not what I ever envisioned for myself, and I’m sure others don’t either, but life happens. The fact is, the home I’m living in right now I never envisioned for myself either, but it is financially practical and it is paid off at this point; so I cannot complain, and I don’t — I have indoor plumbing, indoor heating, a roof that doesn’t leak; and while I don’t have a dishwasher or a garbage dispose, I know those are not true essentials to life, only luxuries that have become customary in this incredible first world nation I live in.

So, since I continue to receive comments on my podcast ‘What No One Knows about Tax Resistance’ this is kind of a follow-up on what comes after that — building back up after losing so much and getting off track. These are only the micro-mini-fetus steps before the bigger Baby Steps of Dave Ramsey’s, which I will always recommend to people because his book helped me; and I continue to listen to his podcasts and have started another audio book of his as well.

Finances are nothing to be lazy about, and food is nothing to take for granted; they both make life so much better than not having either, and both are attainable for anyone who is able-bodied and struggling financially, and who is willing to be diligent about their finances by getting off the pot and stop digging their own hole.

Thank you for listening!

Sequim Monitor:

Learn more about the Sequim Food Bank’s operations, values, and mission with a question & answer exchange between Clallamity Jen and Andra Smith, Executive Director of the Sequim Food Bank.

Strait Shooter Friday Edition:

Reality sets in with a heavy dose of satire as the Strait Shooter reports on art walk encampments, paper syringes, and ice protests; with a special report on tourism from a rogue Strait Shooter Special Investigator.

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

A Real Conversation with Clallamity Jen

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 17 Jan 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Today’s podcast is an interview of me by my husband. He formulated a list of questions using ChatGPT and I did not know what he would ask. All the questions are listed below, and he added some of his own based on my answers.

For the full podcast transcript, click the ‘Transcript’ button under the podcast box at the top of the article.

Email Tip: To access the article without using the app, click the title of the article in the email and it will open the webpage for the article.

1. Origin Story (why she exists in this space)

These establish credibility and motive.

* What originally made you start Clallamity Jen?

* What was the moment where you realized, “Someone needs to be saying this out loud”?

* Were you nervous about putting your real opinions out in a small town?

* What reaction surprised you the most when you first started publishing?

* What were you wrong about when you first began?

2. What She Actually Does (demystify her role)

Most listeners do not understand the work behind it.

* Walk people through what you actually do in a typical week.

* How much time goes into researching vs writing vs editing?

* How do you decide which stories are worth covering?

* How much of your work is reacting to what happens vs digging for things nobody is talking about?

* What part of the job is the hardest?

3. Sequim Letters vs Clallamity Jen vs Strait Shooter

Clarify the ecosystem.

* What is the difference between Clallamity Jen and Sequim Letters?

* Why do you need both?

* Where does The Strait Shooter fit into all of this?

* What can satire do that straight reporting can’t?

* Which platform lets you be the most honest?

4. Her Philosophy (this is where listeners connect)

This is what builds a following.

* What do you believe most journalists get wrong?

* What do you think small-town media is afraid of?

* Why do you think local government gets away with so much?

* What is the job of a citizen journalist?

* If people only understood one thing about how local power works, what should it be?

5. The Cost of Doing This

This makes her human.

* What has this cost you personally?

* Has anyone ever tried to intimidate or pressure you to stop?

* Have you ever second-guessed publishing something?

* What kind of criticism actually hurts?

* What kind of criticism do you ignore?

6. The Receipts

This proves she’s not just noise.

* What story are you most proud of breaking or covering?

* What story got the strongest reaction?

* What story do you think people still don’t fully understand?

* What was the most important thing you uncovered that barely got noticed?

7. Where This Is Going

This creates buy-in.

* What do you want Clallamity Jen to become?

* What would success look like in five years?

* What do you want Sequim to be better at?

* What kind of readers are you hoping to reach?

* What keeps you motivated when it gets exhausting?

8. Personal (but not cheesy)

Let people see who she is.

* What did you do before all of this?

* What kind of person were you before you became “Clallamity Jen”?

* What scares you the most about doing this work?

* What makes you laugh about the whole thing?

* What do people get wrong about you?

9. Closing Question (the mic-drop)

End strong.

* If you could say one thing directly to the people who read you but have never met you, what would it be?

Thank you for listening & subscribing!

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Next issue publish date: Monday, January 19, 2026

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Weekly Wrap-Up

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 13:30:00 GMT

It’s Friday, January 16, 2026.

Here are some of this week’s highlights:

* Talking Taxes:

* Monday started with my Very Special Monday Podcast, What No One Knows About Tax Resistance.

* I started doubting if I should have put it out; after receiving feedback both in comments and in person, I’m glad I did.

* People have expressed that my podcast has confirmed for them that tax resistance is not the way to go; I was also told that my podcast was recommended to someone who has started talking about tax resistance.

* My experience doesn’t make me feel great about my past choices, but if my experience and story can help people redirect their thinking about going down a dark path that didn’t make my life better, and most likely won’t make their life better, that makes me feel like I can accept my mistakes knowing something good has come from it all. I only wish I could get a tax credit for it.

* As of today, four days after publishing the podcast, there have been 187 downloads.

* A challenge I’ve had with taxes, and I doubt I’m the only one, is learning how to accept taxes and try to find the good in them.

* Listening to the Clallam County Watchdog’s podcast, Good Samaritan Breaks His Silence, reminded me of the good that taxes can do.

* Austin Wolfley, the Good Samaritan who stopped an attack on a Clallam County Bus, at one time worked as a custodian in the Sequim School District. He rode the bus to work, and rode his electric bike home along Highway 101 after his shift ended late at night; an hour-long journey back to his home in Port Angeles.

* Hearing that made me think that my property taxes were part of what created his salary — and that makes me feel good about paying my taxes; knowing someone like Austin benefited from them; a hard-working, blue collar worker and local resident who took action when someone needed help on the bus he happened to be riding one day.

* While my taxes fund things I don’t agree with, and pay some people’s salaries who I doubt deserve it, there are also people like Austin who are serving this community. Knowing that gives me a better perspective on the good my taxes are doing even if I can’t see it all the time.

* Clallam County Letters:

* Issues 8 and 9 were published this week, on Monday and Thursday

* There are now 127 subscribers with new subscribers every day

* Based on the comments, while not many, people do enjoy the content and seeing what people are writing to elected officials

* There are more views than likes and comments

* The challenge — not many letters are coming in

* I understand if people don’t want their letters published, but for those who want their letters to be seen by more than the clerk and maybe the commissioners, if they read them at all, please add my email address to the CC or BCC fields so that more people can see the letters

* Audience:

Washington (88%)

California (6%)

New Jersey (2%)

Texas (2%)

Washington, DC (1%)

* More people than locals are seeing these letters, and that is my goal with Clallam County Letters — to have local voices heard in places beyond the borders of Clallam County — but I can’t do it without people’s letters.

* This isn’t just for Clallam County government; it’s also for Sequim, Port Angeles, Forks, the state of Washington, and federal government too. If you’re in Clallam County and emailing elected officials or government offices of any kind, that is a public record, and more people can see it on Clallam County Letters.

* When others see these letters, they can learn how to write their own letters, learn that they are not alone, and learn something new based on what is in the letters.

* Sequim Monitor:

* I sent off some new questions to Andra Smith, the executive director of the Sequim Food Bank.

* I had two questions left in comments, and then I added some of my own. I am waiting to publish the questions along with the answers.

* I received a response from Andra that they are working on some end-of-year tasks right now and that she will work on the questions over the weekend; when I receive the response, I will post my questions and her answers complete and unaltered.

* Based on the poll I did in my Food for Thought: The Response article, what matters most to people at the Sequim Food Bank is Transparency and Communication, coming in at 60%.

* Hiring Practices and Salaries ties for second with Food Collection and Distribution, both at 13%; third is a tie between Annual Reports and Oversight by the Board, both at 7%.

* There are now 130 subscribers:

* Audience:

Washington (84%)

California (8%)

New Jersey (3%)

Arizona (1%)

Montana (1%)

* I’ll be putting out a new article soon, hopefully before the weekend is over; nothing as in-depth as the Food for Thought article.

* As a reminder, the Sequim Monitor is a platform for others to submit content.

* I only make it into Sequim one day a week, so I’m not out in the community every day seeing what is going on.

* If people are into photography and not into writing, Sequim Monitor is a great place to share public photography so others can see what is going on.

* There isn’t a hard and fast rule about the content, since this is so new, but just that it focuses on Sequim — the community, the people, the government, the events, the issues.

* Contact me clallamityjen@gmail.com with submissions or questions too.

* Jake Seegers Event:

* Tonight (Thursday) my husband and I attended a nice community gathering for Jake Seegers in Port Angeles.

* I did get to meet Jake towards the end, as he was busy fielding questions and talking with many people; he sounds just like he does in CC Watchdog podcasts.

* It was nice to talk with him and ask questions, and just see how he is in person; he’s real, he’s genuine, and has good ideas that aren’t being implemented currently.

* I do have an interview lined up with him later in February, in case people were wondering; so, you can submit questions to me and I’ll post reminders as the time gets closer.

* I had a great time meeting people tonight, putting faces to names from the Watchdog community — and seeing people’s faces when they learned I was ‘Clallamity Jen’ along with my ‘Strait Shooter’ husband.

* Many people told me tonight, including Jake, that the content my husband and I are doing is appreciated, whether for the humor or for being another voice in the movement, as the Watchdog calls it and I agree that it is a movement.

* While I think “I just make memes” as if it’s nothing super serious compared to the in-depth reporting Jake does, and the issues Jeff writes about, I recognize the impact it is having from comments and feedback; it makes me feel good to provide that to people, to make them laugh, and maybe think a bit too, and especially to let them know they aren’t alone out here in what they’re thinking or experiencing.

* It was also great to see Doug and Marge, two people I’ve interviewed and now have good friendship connections with, and Jeff of course too. It was a great event and many thanks to the hostess for the gracious invite.

* Lastly, the Strait Shooter:

* A new Friday edition comes out at 6:16am.

* A few of the highlights include the new grant machine at the casino, a wave of micro-taxes from the county, and an appearance from Equity Person, the superhero of county government (not a superhero of the people), along with quick hit headlines and a letter to the editor about a new business coming to Sequim.

* It’s a great way to end the week and start the weekend, with lots of laughs.

* Saturday Podcast:

* My husband will be interviewing me with a list of questions he had ChatGPT generate from analyzing my blogs, and that will be out tomorrow.

* Also, my husband is now my podcast recording engineer; since he goes to all my interviews, now he will be helping with the recordings and making sure the quality is good.

* The interview with Doug had some sound issues; we figured it out later and have some new mics now, and some other technical things my husband worked out, using ChatGPT to troubleshoot it, of course.

Thank you all for subscribing and listening today. I appreciate your time and making me part of your day. Have a great Friday the 16th!

New Strait Shooter Friday Edition:

Click the orange button for the latest in satirical news from the only source in Clallam County!

Get Your Emails to Elected Officials Published in Clallam County Letters:

Next issue publish date: Monday, January 19, 2026

Clallam County Letters accepts emails to county, city, state, and federal government officials.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC or BCC fields.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

What No One Knows About Tax Resistance

Clallamity Jen — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 13:30:00 GMT

I wrote out my script below for the podcast, though it isn’t everything I said in the podcast. For the full podcast transcript, click the ‘Transcript’ button under the podcast box at the top of the article.

Email Tip: To access the article without using the app, click the title of the article in the email and it will open the webpage for the article.

Hello everyone. I’m Clallamity Jen. Today is Monday, January 12, 2026.

I’m doing a very special podcast today after listening to Jake Seegers’ interview with Jeff, the Clallam County Watchdog, in the article Two Months In: What Jake Seegers Is Seeing.

Jake said something that, the instant I heard it, I felt compelled to address it.

At the 21:13 time stamp, Jake states:

And there are a lot of people getting online and saying, I'm not paying income tax anymore. I'm not paying property tax anymore. Now, granted, there will be some legal repercussions, but there's a growing group that are saying, hey, if enough people get together and do this.

Jake was talking about people who are recognizing that there are rules for people in government, and those rules don’t apply to people who aren’t in government. Understandably, this makes people mad and angry, which is one of the stages of grief:

Having been through all these stages of grief when it comes to tax resistance, I wanted to offer my experience to anyone who is thinking about traveling down the road I took.

Just like a reformed drug addict would probably speak out if they heard someone say ‘I’m going to start doing meth and become homeless,’ I feel obliged to offer my views on a topic that is often discussed more as a theory than in practical application.

In 2006 is when I stopped paying my federal income tax, which was for the tax year 2005. In 2005, my father suffered a life-altering stroke, and when tax season came around in spring of 2006, caring about paying my taxes was nothing I had an interest in, combined with my disgust at George Bush and the war and my growing awareness of how wrong federal income tax was.

Basically, I was mad as hell and I wasn’t going to take it anymore, blah blah blah.

Since I was a freelance contractor, I was given 1099’s by anyone I worked for, and it was up to me to take care of filing all my taxes; nothing was ever withheld from my pay. So, it was really easy not to file and not run into problems. I didn’t cheat on my taxes by filing and making false claims; I just didn’t file.

This went on until I stopped working in 2012, but during these years I still managed to get a house in 2007, thanks to an inheritance my husband received, before we were married, and I had received a settlement from a car wreck; so we had some cash and there were a lot of first time homebuyer incentives, and we got a house.

We paid the mortgage for the first few years, even though during the first year the mortgage was sold to Bank of America, and then in 2008 the crash happened, but we kept paying even though we were very unhappy that Bank of America owned the mortgage and this eventually made me mad enough to stop paying on the house in 2010 or 2011.

During this time, I moved to Montana for work in 2008, and even though there is a state income tax, I never paid it because, again, I was a 1099 contractor and it was up to me to pay all my taxes. Since I never filed, it didn’t concern me.

Of course anyone I did work for, they sent my filings to the IRS and the State of Montana, because that’s what businesses do. So, those entities knew I was earning money, and of course I didn’t care because I was mad at the system.

Now, I wasn’t making millions of dollars, not even a hundred thousand, so I wasn’t someone that governments rely on for heavy taxation, like millionaires, which made me not a huge target to them. But in paperwork they could track me and see that I wasn’t filing, and since all the tracking is done with computers, eventually the letter campaign started; they contacted me and ask me to pay what I owe.

I was never threatened with jail, which is what I always heard and still do hear is why you should never not pay your income tax. Never happened to me, not once; not even when I walked into an IRS office asking for the paperwork that showed everything I owed after years of not paying; I wasn’t arrested, I wasn’t detained; I was just asked if I could start paying, and that was it; I got the paperwork I asked for and left.

It wasn’t until 2015 when I was working a part-time job out here, as an employee, that the IRS finally contacted me through my employer. The business administrator told me that their accountant was contacted by the IRS and that they will garnish my wages if they don’t hear from me. I wasn’t mad about it, I knew it would happen, and was glad to go and meet with the agent to start working to get it settled.

But before that even happened, it was in 2014 when my house finally got through foreclosure which was about a two or three year process from the initial notice until the eviction notice. And, of course, property taxes weren’t paid at all since they were combined with the mortgage. So, I can’t speak to not paying property taxes when a home is paid for, or the mortgage is paid separate, but I still wouldn’t do it. A home is worth fighting for, and not paying property taxes is not a fight; it’s a lazy way to lose a home.

For what it’s worth, too, I went through a personal bankruptcy during this time as well when I moved back to Washington in 2012 and it was discharged soon after. I basically ran out of money; I had no clue how to manage my finances, I was never taught, I didn’t bother to learn, and just didn’t care so long as I got paid for the work I did.

So, back to the income tax issue. When I met with the IRS agent in 2015, she was very nice and, again, I wasn’t arrested or threatened with jail. I wasn’t making enough for them to garnish anything for my back taxes, since it was only part-time and less than $13,000 a year, which is the threshold for being exempt from income tax; earning over $13k required paying income tax, back then anyway.

When I told the agent why I stopped paying, she told me something others might like to know, especially anyone who thinks if enough people resist then government will pay attention — she told me I wasn’t alone in what I was doing. She wasn’t condescending or anything; just matter of fact and very understanding, that lots of people feel how I feel and are doing what I was doing — and yet the wars continued, government continued, taxes continued, and nothing changed except my life, and it didn’t change for the better.

However, that wasn’t the end of my back tax issue. It was maybe a year or so later that every tax season I started getting statements of what I owed the IRS for the years 2005 through 2012, and all the statements included fees that accrued every year.

As I later learned, it didn’t matter that I didn’t file because the IRS is allowed to basically make assumptions of what I earned, which is the law, and that it’s up to me to prove I didn’t earn it. Well, I didn’t have any of my old paperwork to prove anything.

Each year, the total amount I owed from all the statements was around $100,000, and it may have been more than that by the time it got resolved in 2024.

So, I tried contacting a local lawyer at one point, asking him in an email if he helped with back taxes; all I got was a one-word reply ‘no.’ The CPA and bookkeeper my husband had for his business, neither one of them ever offered to help resolve the issue even though they knew it was there because of his business filings and our personal filings.

I contacted another lawyer in Gig Harbor once, after I started trying to figure out how to negotiate a deal with the IRS myself; he told me it would cost probably $10,000 for him to take it on, and that I should keep doing it myself because it sounded like I could figure it out, based on what I explained in an email to him.

I had no clue what I was doing, and the more I heard ‘no’ from people, the more I felt like I was stuck in a hole that I couldn’t get out of — and it sucked. Every year, the same statements from the IRS showed up, with more fees, and it just gave me anxiety and made me feel miserable, like this was never going to go away and I couldn’t move forward.

So, one day we were out in Sequim, driving down Bell Street, and I saw a sign, I can’t remember if it was a banner on the side of the building or the sandwich board that is there now, but it said ‘We Solve IRS Problems’. Of course, I thought, yeah, well, doubt they can solve mine since nobody else can.

During this time my husband and I talked about the problem; he knew I wanted to resolve it, but we didn’t know how. Honestly, this isn’t a problem many people are trained to deal with — proven by how few people talk openly about their own experiences with income tax resistance. So, the conversation always came around, and I think I mentioned at one point that sign, because as doubtful as I was, I also felt like maybe that was the sign I needed, maybe someone can help.

I eventually searched out the business, SFC Tax Service; I talked with the lady on the phone so she knew the situation; later that same day I got a call from Stephen, one of the Enrolled Agents; he let me know how much it could cost, depending on what they found out when we came in to go over the paperwork. During my one and only meeting with him, I learned that I basically lucked out — the statute of limitations had just run out, and I was free from the tax debt. It only ended up costing $250 for the hour or so of time it took him to do it all, and that was in December of 2024.

The enrolled agent at SFC told me that even if I would have paid a lawyer thousands of dollars, I still might have ended up paying the IRS too.

So, I paid $250 instead of hundreds of thousands of dollars, but I paid with almost 20 years of my life. While I never went to jail, I made my own jail, and I don’t recommend it to anyone who is thinking of going down that path.

After that meeting and learning that I was free, which meant I had no liens on our home and that was a big push for me to get it done since that same year we got our property put in our name, I felt so good.

I was on Gab at that time, a social media platform, and noticed how many people would post about not paying income tax. So I started questioning those people about how they are doing it, not filing versus filing and not signing; how do you do it as an employee without your wages being garnished — and then I would get called an IRS agent for asking questions, and I would laugh at them and call them an agent for trying to get people to fall for their ruse.

I also got called a bootlicker for being a dissenting voice that promoted the good in paying my taxes — not being threatened with liens or garnishment or screwing up my own finances. Sure, it’s not popular to promote paying taxes, and I don’t like it, but I accept it, because I’ve been on the other side and it’s not better.

So, for anyone who is listening to people promote not paying income or property taxes, I would ask how they are doing it. If they try to make it sound like it’s some secret clandestine act that can’t be discussed, I would doubt they are doing it at all. Because, like I was told by an IRS agent, lots of people don’t pay income tax for whatever reason, and people aren’t getting arrested because of it. That’s not a reason to do it; it’s a reason to question anyone who says they won’t talk about it as if they will get arrested for it. That’s pure hogwash.

When it comes to my life now after nearly 20 years that were lost because I was basically mad — mad at the system, mad about what happened to my dad, mad about government lying to the people, mad at the false paradigm that free humans have to live under, blah blah blah — I’ve learned to accept it for what it is, and I actively work to live in the final stage of grief, acceptance.

I’ve learned that if I’m going to fight government, I’m going to make my life better in the process. While I didn’t care for what Joe Biden did as president, we didn’t let it stop us from improving our situation. During those four years, our savings grew, our income grew, and we grew better by learning how to play the game as taxpayers.

For all the years I didn’t pay income tax, I didn’t win anything — my house went into foreclosure, so the bank won; I felt I couldn’t talk about my tax issues, due to societal judgments, especially when Trump ran for office the first time, so I lost being able to connect to people while carrying a heavy burden. I lost my career, so I didn’t win anything there. I went through a bankruptcy, no win there. And the wars continued, government continued, it all continued.

Yes, taxes suck, they totally suck, but what sucks more is letting government have more control over my life by being mad at it. It’s not worth it.

What is worth it is rising to the challenge to do better. It’s not the system that keeps people down, it’s people that keep themselves down. If people blame the system for keeping people down, then does anyone drive around Bell Hill and say, ‘Boy, that system works’? It’s not the system, as terrible as it can be, there are people succeeding with honest work, and with the help of good accountants who help their clients get the most tax breaks they can. Good for them, that’s how the system works.

If anyone listening has considered this path, please stop in your tracks and figure out a better way. If anyone listening knows someone who is considering the path, please pass this message their way.

It’s not an easy road, it’s a dark road, there are no guidebooks to get you where you want to go on that kind of road, because it doesn’t go anywhere good.

From ChatGPT:

Here are straight figures and context on who actually pays U.S. federal income tax — and what that means for any tax-protest movement:

1) Percentage of Americans Who Pay Federal Income Tax

• A significant portion of U.S. households pay no net federal income tax in a given year (this excludes payroll taxes like Social Security/Medicare, which nearly everyone with wages pays). Some estimates have placed the non-payer share around 30–40% of tax filers in recent years.

• The bottom half of taxpayers by income collectively pay only about 3% of federal individual income taxes, while the top 50% pay about 97% of it. 

• Because the tax base concentrates heavily at the top, many working and lower-income people legally owe zero income tax after credits/deductions (even though they still pay payroll and other taxes).

Approximate takeaway: ~60–70% of Americans do pay federal income tax in a typical year; the rest either pay zero or owe so little that refundable credits wipe it out. (Exact figures vary by year and law changes.)

2) Percentage of Millionaires Who Pay Federal Income Tax

There isn’t a precise IRS percentage for “millionaires who pay income tax,” but the broad pattern is clear:

• Millionaires (households earning >$1 million) are a tiny share of filers yet pay a disproportionate share of income taxes. Over the past decade, this group has paid about 17–28% of all federal income taxes annually.

• Because their income far exceeds most Americans’, virtually all millionaires will have a positive federal income tax liability in most years — unlike lower-income filers who can zero out taxes via credits/deductions.

Approximate takeaway: Near 100% of millionaires end up paying federal income tax in a typical year, at least in terms of having positive liability.

3) If Income-Tax Pay Protesters Included the Remainder, Would It Move the Needle?

Two key structural facts matter:

A) Most Tax Revenue Comes from Less Than the Majority

• The top 50% of filers pay 97% of federal income taxes; the bottom 50% pay about 3%. 

• The top 5% pay the majority (often ~60%+) of individual income tax revenue. 

B) People Who Don’t Owe Tax Still Pay Other Taxes

Those who “don’t pay income tax” still pay:

• Payroll taxes (Social Security, Medicare)

• Sales taxes

• State/local income taxes (in many states)

• Property taxes

These add up to a significant burden for many who owe zero income tax.

C) What Happens if Non-Payers Protest Income Tax?

• Since those who don’t owe income tax contribute little or zero to income tax receipts, their refusal to pay their own income tax wouldn’t reduce overall federal revenue much — most of them already legally owe $0.

• If a protest extended to refusal to pay payroll or other taxes, that would cut deeper into government revenue, but that’s a very different issue from not paying income tax itself.

Net Reality Check

• Federal income tax is structured so that the bulk of the load falls on higher earners: a small share of filers (top 10–20%) make up most of the revenue, while a large share of lower-income Americans owe little or none.

• A mass protest by people who don’t currently owe income tax wouldn’t materially reduce income tax revenue — most of them already don’t owe much or anything.

• Any protest that actually cut revenue would have to involve higher-income taxpayers — the group that currently funds the majority of the system.

Thank you for reading, listening & learning — and paying taxes!

Clallam County Letters:

Issue No. 8 comes out at 6:30am today, Monday, January 12, 2026.

CC Letters delivers civic engagement to your inbox with letters to the leaders from the residents of Clallam County.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

An Afternoon with Doug, Husband of the Watchdog

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 13:30:00 GMT

I wrote out my questions below from the interview, though it isn’t everything I asked in the podcast. For the full podcast transcript, click the ‘Transcript’ button under the podcast box at the top of the article.

Email Tip: To access the article without using the app, click the title of the article in the email and it will open the webpage for the article.

Hello, I’m Clallamity Jen. Today I’m in Sequim interviewing Doug who is married to Jeff Tozzer, the Clallam County Watchdog. Thank you for doing this interview with me, Doug.

For those listening who don’t know you, and myself, could you please share a little about yourself, starting with how long you have lived in Clallam County?

What brought you here?

Could you share how you and Jeff met, and how long you have been together including years of marriage?

Jeff mentioned to me your unique ‘birthaversary’; could you explain that for the listeners.

Do you have any hobbies?

Submitted question: What do you do for a living now and in the past?

Submitted question: I hear you won a reality TV series, Alt For Norge. Tell me about that. (Could you describe what the show is about for people who may not know)

(My questions: What was it like watching yourself in a reality TV show?

Did you continue to watch the series after you were on it?

Do you watch your old episodes?

When you look back at yourself in those episodes, do you think you are different now than you were then? How have you changed?

Did being on the show change your life in any way?)

Submitted questions:

On average, how many hours a day is Jeff working in meetings, traveling, podcasting? (Can you give us an idea of his weekly schedule, or just an average day?)

Having a farm, do you take the primary role of the animals and the day-to-day upkeep?

(My question: What kind of animals do you have, and do they have names?)

Submitted question: Have you experienced any negatives as a same-sex married couple in Clallam County?

(My questions: Are you two involved in the pride events in Sequim?

Are either of you advocates for pride movements?

Many people in the area fly pride flags on their properties; do you; why or why not?)

Submitted question: Tell us 2 pros and 2 cons of being so tall. (How tall are you?)

My questions:

I hear you won a gold medal in volleyball at the Gay Games. Tell me how you got involved in that; how did you get on the team, how long did you play with them, where did you go as a team?

When it comes to the Clallam County Watchdog, can you share how all of that came about? What inspired it, what discussions you and Jeff had about starting it; did you weigh the pros and the cons?

Submitted question: Does Doug fear that Jeff will be physically attacked by some nutcase/over-zealous critic?

My questions:

What concerns you the most about what Jeff does as a community watchdog?

Have you ever felt that your safety is threatened based on people’s reactions to CC Watchdog?

What is the most disturbing thing that has happened with Jeff as a watchdog?

After Charlie Kirk was fatally shot and a person associated with Peninsula Behavioral Health made a post on social media making light of what happened, did it make you wonder if people in the Clallam County community might feel the same if something happened to Jeff?

Have you ever asked Jeff to stop being a watchdog?

Jeff often mentions in his podcasts that he doesn’t agree with everyone all the time, and that you two often have disagreements. What is the most common disagreement you two have, and how do you resolve it?

Jeff’s question: Ask him what it’s like to be wrong all the time. About everything.

Submitted question: How tired are you of hearing about county business?

My questions:

With everything that Jeff does, what does he do to relax and unwind?

Jeff has mentioned that he would starve without you. What are some of his favorite meals that you make? Do your tastes in food differ? Are you both vegan?

Since you are both still young with lots of years ahead of you, is Sequim and Clallam County where you two plan to stay; or do you think about moving somewhere else later in life?

What challenges come with living in Sequim and Clallam County based on your experiences?

Is there anything you still want to do in Clallam County that is unique to this area? Jeff mentioned in a podcast that you hike the spit when family visits. Have you gone to Hurricane Ridge; Olympic Game Farm; done any whale tours; gone to Canada on the ferry?

What do you think is the coolest or neatest thing you have done out here?

If you were ruler of Clallam County, what would you change?

What do you like most about living in Sequim?

If you met someone who had never been to Sequim, or even heard of it, what would you tell them about it?

What is your favorite color?

What is your favorite Debbie Gibson song?

How many times have you seen her in concert?

Has Jeff ever covered a Debbie Gibson song for CC Watchdog?

If he did cover one of her songs, which song would you want it to be?

(Watch Debbie Gibson’s ‘Legendary’ video to see Doug & Jeff):

What are you looking forward to in 2026?

Do you have anything you’d like to add or share?

Thank you for your time today, Doug, and answering these questions. I hope the listeners learned more about you and enjoyed hearing local people in Clallam County having a real conversation.

Thank you everyone for listening and making this interview part of your day.

Clallam County Letters:

The next issue of Clallam County Letters comes out Monday, January 12, 2026.

CC Letters delivers civic engagement to your inbox with letters to the leaders from the residents of Clallam County.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Food for Thought: It’s Working!

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Email Tip: To access the article without using the app, click the title of the article in the email and it will open the webpage for the article.

Hello, I’m Clallamity Jen, a rural GenX housewife, meme legend, and budding community watchdog.

Thank you for listening today. It is Friday, January 9th, 2026.

A Correction:

Before I get to my main topic today, I wanted to make a correction from a previous podcast when I mentioned how there isn’t a Port Angeles watchdog when there really is. In fact, there are two citizens who are keeping the public informed, free of charge, on Substack.

One is Marolee Smith, also known as Mimi Smith—Dvorak, and the other is JamesRocklynTaylor. They both ran for Port Angeles City Council positions in the last election, and while they didn’t make it they are making a positive difference by staying active on their substacks. I have both of their Substacks linked on the home page of clallamityjen.substack.com under Local News.

They both have put out articles about the first Port Angeles City Council meeting of 2026; I haven’t read James’ yet, just Mimi’s. They both put out good information with their own perspectives, and I recommend people read their substacks and follow them as well if anyone is looking for more info on what’s going on in Port Angeles.

Food for Thought:

Today I wanted to share with everyone what has happened this past week with the Sequim Monitor substack and the article I posted on January 3rd titled Food for Thought.

For those who haven’t read it, I share my review of the 2024 Annual Report of the Sequim Food Bank along with some information about their current executive director job opportunity including demographics about wages in Sequim and the employment sector of Clallam County.

About the Article:

This was not an AI generated article, it was all my work, and as one commenter pointed out it was long-winded and not interesting. Admittedly, I am not a technical numerical writer, as I’m sure the article proves; but the numbers I included are there for a reason, because I didn’t want them to get lost by telling people to refer to charts, when that was the problem I was having — the charts weren’t adding up. The best way I figured to show what I was questioning by writing out the numbers.

I know not everyone cares about annual reports, and I find that concerning because if annual reports didn’t matter then businesses wouldn’t put them out every year, and accountants would say, yeah, we don’t need those, just keep doing what you’re doing and numbers don’t matter.

Annual reports very much matter, and other commenters appreciated the work and seemed to find it interesting. Maybe because it isn’t just numbers but it is money that I was concerned about — and money matters a lot to people who give to nonprofits and want to know the money is being handled appropriately.

I also appreciate very much that the Sequim Food Bank had the past two years of annual reports on their website, available for everyone to read. Not enough non-profits do that, so that’s a great sign to me.

While the article wasn’t AI generated, I did use ChatGPT to help me revise the article before I published it. My first version had a lot more editorializing in it, and some wording that could have caused more problems as far as sounding accusatory instead of seeking an understanding which is what my goal was.

So, I followed ChatGPT’s suggestions, removed text and rewording certain questions; I also asked ChatGPT to check all my math; the math always came out right, which made me feel better, and after a few submissions all the language that gave ChatGPT red flags was out and ChatGPT said it was a quality piece for a citizen watchdog.

That made me feel better, because that was what I wanted — an article that wouldn’t put people off with feeling they were being attacked, especially anyone at the food bank, but focused on the data I found and getting my questions answered. I strongly suspect had I not used ChatGPT to revise my article, things would not have turned out as well as they have.

As I wrote the article and realized I had so many questions, I wasn’t sure if I should publish the article before getting my questions answered. I did some googling on it and the AI confirmed for me through the information it gleaned that as a citizen watchdog it is acceptable to publish my research and questions before asking my questions to anyone who can answer them. And it also said how sometimes that is good to do since it puts the information out to the public and creates transparency, and can even be the reason why the questions get answered because it is in the public view.

Since I had so many questions I didn’t feel it would be fair to not try to get my questions answered; that’s the only way my concerns could be addressed, was by asking my questions to the person or entity who could answer them, the Sequim Food Bank.

When it comes to my questions, one commenter stated that the article was “too long winded on numbers and decisions that are best made by a Board of Directors or in-house departments. Not by Jen the Substacker.”

Like I said, I’m not a technical writer, and I’m positive there are people with better skills than I have when it comes to doing that kind of reporting. But to say ‘not by Jen the substacker’ makes it sound like I have no right as a citizen to ask my questions of decisions I don’t have a say in. I’m not questioning a private for-profit business; I’m questioning a non-profit entity that serves residents in Clallam County — and the nearby city of Port Angeles, also in Clallam County, is dealing with a fraud investigation by the state at the William Shore Memorial Pool District. Right now at the national level there are many fraud cases coming to light — and I don’t want that happening here.

I want to be clear — I do not suspect the food bank of fraud, not at all; I am only concerned when numbers and the money doesn’t add up in their annual report. I’m more than memes, cynicism, and satire; I’m someone who has given to the food bank, I’m someone who has a genuine interest in looking at an annual report and trying to understand it which not everyone cares to do, and I’m someone who has created a platform with the Sequim Monitor that allows me to not only ask questions for others to see but to provide an outlet for the answers that the public can access free of charge.

I appreciate that Jeff the Watchdog said in a podcast this week when sharing the story how submitting the article to the food bank with my questions is being a role model, I think were his words, and I will be honest — it scared me to send my article to the food bank, for a couple reasons.

First, I felt that what if I did all that work, which I did work on the article for a number of days, to only be told, no, you read everything wrong and you don’t understand anything and it’s basically none of your business. And then it’s all in public for everyone to see; so, that concerned me, even though that was really just fear of embarrassment which I’ve never been good at dealing with.

Second, I didn’t know what it would create, thinking it might cause problems in some way. I’m definitely a person who thinks the worst, even though I have a lot of hope and exercise thinking positive because I have to work at it.

But I just knew I had to ask the questions because it wouldn’t be fair and ethical to not give the food bank an opportunity to address my concerns; so, I knew I had to do it and send in my article.

I also had ChatGPT create the email that I sent in with the article; because I wanted to make sure the wording was what I wanted, and sometimes I use the wrong words or create a tone that might come off wrong, and I wanted to avoid that. I had to have ChatGPT try a few times because we weren’t giving it the best prompts, but I got a letter that I liked, made a few changes to make sure it said what I wanted, and sent it off to Andra Smith, the executive director of the Sequim Food Bank.

The Result:

Since I had so many questions, I knew it wasn’t reasonable to expect a quick response; and I always wonder if an email lands in spam or junk, since that can happen. But, a few days later I got a response and before opening it thought — wow, how cool, a response.

Andra sent me a response and when I saw all the answers she gave, I thought, that is incredible that she did that and so awesome of her to do it too.

So I truly appreciate her taking the time to provide more insight and clarify the questions and concerns I had, based on my understanding as someone outside the organization who only had the annual report to go off of.

We’ve communicated back and forth a couple times, and in the initial email I sent I mentioned that I would post the reply email on the Sequim Monitor for all to see; she did request in a later email that if I post it anywhere else to keep it intact for context, and I respect that. I do not want to take anything out of context, or share quotes of it in this podcast, because I don’t think that would do it justice anyway. So, I’m not going to go over what she said in the email. I will have a link to it in this article for people to click on and read it for themselves.

So, while I had my fears of being told I didn’t know anything, that kind of happened, since she clarified how the annual report works and the purpose of it, but I’m not embarrassed by that. I think learning is good, I don’t know everything, and I know I don’t know everything; I appreciate so much that she didn’t make me feel like I had no business asking these questions as Jen on Substack. Not at all; for those who read her email, she is thankful for the opportunity to offer this transparency — and that is exactly what people want.

On the article with her response, I added a poll at the bottom asking what matters most to you at the Sequim Food Bank. The last I checked, the ‘transparency and communication’ option is leading — so people want transparency, they want communication, and if it took me showing that I am learning as I go, then that’s a huge win if it resulted in transparency and communication, and opening a line of dialogue with the Sequim Food Bank.

I know that Andra will be leaving at the end of February, which is why they are hiring for a new executive director, and I hope that whoever comes on next will be just as open to continuing this line of communication, not just for me but for everyone who is reading the Sequim Monitor.

Andra has offered to answer more questions for further clarification, and I asked if it’s okay to let readers know that so they can leave their questions in comments, and I can forward them on to her; and she is glad to answer those questions as well. What more could a person ask for if they are wanting transparency and communication? I’m so thankful to Andra for how well this turned out and understanding she is about me being a concerned citizen who is looking for information by providing my own research that shows why I have questions.

As the comment I mentioned earlier stated about the board of directors and in-house departments, they do have those at the Sequim Food Bank to provide oversight, as well as their accounting team. And while I’m not interested in asking them questions, I do hope that by opening this line of communication, they are aware that people in the community are looking a bit closer than maybe before, and that all we want is transparency and communication to have a better understanding of anything that might concern us, especially for those of us who give to the food bank, which I have done.

When it comes to giving, I wanted to share the experiences I had with it, because they were really good for me. So, I shop at QFC in Sequim, and inside the doors by the bakery, turn to the left and near the lotto kiosk along the wall is a black bin that’s labeled ‘food bank’ where donations can be made, and I’ve put stuff in there at times. It’s a nice convenient drop-off, so I really like that.

There have also been a couple times where either the food bank itself or other organizations collecting items are outside the entrance doors with a list of what is needed; sometimes they’ve told us what aisle the product is in, which is nice; I mean, it can’t get much easier than that; and then when we buy items for their collection, at the checkout they separate those items out to hand them off to them. It makes it very easy to give when those events are arranged like that.

I know, based on comments and discussions, that not everyone is happy with the food bank, for different reasons. So I hope that if anyone has questions or concerns, to please leave them in the comment on the Sequim Monitor article, or in this article, and if people want anonymity, please message me or email me clallamityjen@gmail.com and I will forward those questions on to Andra.

I really liked seeing that transparency and communication is coming in as what matters most to people, and I am so pleased that Andra has been so generous with her time in answering questions and being willing to have this openness and communication that for all I know hasn’t been offered to the food bank before.

I also let her know that she or anyone at the food bank is welcome to send in articles to the Sequim Monitor, because even though the purpose is citizens keeping an eye on Sequim, I think that also includes transparency and giving voices to people in Sequim, especially if they are part of an organization and want to shed light on what goes on to help people learn and create a better understanding, and open a line of communication so the people who are reading can ask questions.

Transparency and communication, people are wanting that, and if I can facilitate that, free of charge as my own public service to the community, I am pleased to do it.

So, it’s Friday, and later today I will be out interviewing Doug, husband to Jeff the Watchdog. People submitted some great questions, and I have quite a few of my own, so I am looking forward to all the answers and the conversation that will come from it. The interview will be out tomorrow, Saturday the 10th, and going by the few I’ve done so far my interviews get close to 2 hours. So, if people love long podcasts, which my husband is a fan of and I think others are too based on all the downloads I’m seeing for my other interviews, I’m pretty sure this will be another long one and a good one too.

In other news, I did send an email to the three commissioners yesterday and I got one response so far from Mike French, and yes my email included a meme. I will be posting the email and the response to Clallam County Letters in the upcoming Monday issue on January 12th. Maybe I’ll get more responses by then, we’ll see.

So, that’s it for this podcast. Again, thank you so much to Andra Smith for taking the time to address my questions and concerns, and being so pleasant and open and understanding about it all; I will be sending her the link to this podcast and I hope she enjoys it.

Thank you all for listening today and making me part of your day. While I talked about one negative constructive comment a bit, I did receive lots of positive comments too, and that made me feel good, like I wasn’t as wrong as I thought I was to ask my questions. So, thank you for the kind words of support; I don’t take it lightly and it means a lot to me.

Again, thank you for the support, and listening, and laughing, and sharing.

Podcast Interview:

* Tune in tomorrow for my interview with Doug, husband to the Watchdog!

Clallam County Letters:

The next issue of Clallam County Letters comes out Monday, January 12, 2026.

CC Letters delivers civic engagement to your inbox with letters to the leaders from the residents of Clallam County.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Waking the Non-Voters, Again

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 03 Jan 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Hello, I’m Clallamity Jen. Thank you for tuning in. I hope everyone is having a nice start to 2026.

Yesterday I posted my interview with Marge, the Nextdoor denizen, which has gotten a lot of downloads and views already; thank you all for listening and I hope you enjoyed the interview as much as I enjoyed doing it and talking with Marge. I know she enjoyed it too.

Today I wanted to continue with a topic from a couple weeks back in my podcast Waking the Non-Voter from December 20, 2025.

People left a lot of really good comments that provided more insight into why people don’t vote, and I wanted to share those comments and provide my feedback.

Someone Someone’s comment:

I went across the street and talked to some of the libtards at the No Kings protest. It’s not that they don’t vote. They do vote. But they’re stupid enough to believe that the problem isn’t our corrupt Clallam government. They believe it’s not yet far enough to the left — that no one should have to work to support himself or herself and that we need to do away with our constitutional republic. They think free hard drugs should be provided to anyone who wants them. You just can’t fix that kind of stupid.

That is the thing about getting people to vote — they won’t always vote the way you want. Such is free will.

Garry Blankenship’s comment:

Definitely all about voting and, however I can best emphasize that, I am. However; there is one example I am aware of where not voting is the best option to vote no. That being school levies. With all school district employees and employed, as well as all school age parents being automatic yes votes the requisite yes percentage is a lock. The only way to defeat a school district levy is to hope the requisite participation percentage of the voting public is not met. School levies are the only elections I do not vote in. I'm fine paying a tax to educate our young, but public schools should not be the only option. Regardless, when in doubt vote, but vote as informed as you can.

So, after reading this my husband and I looked it up on ChatGPT, of course, and while I don’t have the exact information to share, what I remember is that it said there is a difference between a bond vote and a levy vote, and that the bond votes require a certain percentage of voters in order to pass and not a levy vote. It used to be that way with a levy vote, but it changed in recent years.

I don’t have that information right in front of me though, and it is something to still research. The comment does bring up something worth knowing about, because all levy and bond elections may not operate the same. So, something to be aware of, and something to still research of course.

Rita Lilita’s comment:

There's an old adage that all politics are local. While national election results trickle down, it should be an encouragement to local non-voters that casting your ballot at the local level can really tip the scales. Our last hair-width difference in results of city council numbers illustrate that a few more voters could initiate change.

When it comes to how few votes are sometimes needed to make a difference, a look at the results from the last election on November 4, 2025, shows just how close it can be when it comes to local races. I’m going to review some of the numbers for those listening, and people reading the article are free to click on the link to review the election results.

MK’s comment:

I try to keep it local, where voting does make a difference, and try to drive that distinction as a way for someone who has been put off by state or federal elections to consider voting.

When I talked with Marge in the interview, she mentioned the Waking the Non-Voters podcast and how getting people to think their votes count is a challenge out here. And I think MK’s comment is a good reminder that voting at the local level is not the same as voting at the federal level. So, for the non-voters who think their voice doesn’t matter in state or federal elections, it’s good to shift the focus to the local level, in the county and cities, because that is really what impacts daily life more than anything else.

Just because the news never stops talking about what happens at the national level, doesn’t mean that’s what makes a difference in property taxes going up, or new taxes being introduced without a vote, or school levies passing; that is all at the local level and is worth paying attention to.

SC’s comment:

I was a non-voter for years, and the main deterrent was being forced to choose between what felt like two evils. When both options are bad, the decision often comes down to which party you’d rather catch flack from- and that’s deeply disheartening.

To this day, I usually cast my presidential vote for a third-party candidate rather than participate in that false choice. I understand the argument that a third-party vote ultimately benefits a major candidate, but I also believe that unless enough people collectively say “enough” to the two-party system, meaningful progress will never happen. Imagine if the entire country refused to play that game.

When it comes to local elections, I spend as much time as possible trying to understand the actual person I’m voting for-not the watered-down voter pamphlet narrative full of promises. History has shown that we can’t simply take people at their word when they’re trying to get elected.

Politics has become incredibly toxic, and far too many people are emotionally and mentally consumed by it. That isn’t healthy for individuals or for our communities.

My response to SC:

Thank you for this, SC! That’s another good view to understand when it comes to people who don’t like the candidates so they don’t vote.

I understand wanting to believe in the candidates a person votes for and they should believe in them; rather than voting against someone which is what seems to get pushed nowadays, as in ‘anyone but Trump’. That’s not a vote for Biden, it’s just a vote against Trump, to use that for an example.

I don’t blame anyone for voting third party if that’s what they believe in. That’s the thing about voting, it is free will and free will is a wonderful thing (so long as someone doesn’t use their free will to harm me). And if someone feels forced to vote in a way they don’t agree with, then that’s not really their vote, it’s someone else’s vote, and that’s not free will.

My husband is a big believer in writing in ‘No Confidence’ when someone is running unopposed, or if he doesn’t like any of the candidates; it’s probably the same as voting third party and it ultimately supports one of the major parties, but at least it’s the person’s choice and they’re not voting for something they don’t agree with.

When it comes to write-ins, it’s worth looking again at the November 4, 2025 election results to see just how many people provided a write-in rather than voting for a candidate, especially when the candidate ran unopposed.

Thank you to everyone who commented on that podcast article Waking the Non-Voters, and I hope people found it and read the comments too, especially anyone who is unsure if they should vote or not.

Again, it’s free will and I can’t make someone vote; but if I can shed some light from my own experience, and others can offer their views from their experiences, it may help people realize that their vote does matter and truly can make a difference in places as small as Clallam County, Sequim, Port Angeles, and especially Forks.

Thank you for reading, listening & sharing!

The Sequim Monitor:

A new article will be out today at 6:30am on the Sequim Monitor, another Substack blog that I edit. This article is written by me and it covers the Sequim Food Bank’s new employment opportunity for executive director along with a rather in-depth review of the 2024 Annual Report from the Sequim Food Bank.

Podcast Interview:

* At the end of this week I will be interviewing Doug, husband to the Watchdog! If you have questions you would like me to ask Doug, please leave them in a comment if you don’t want to be anonymous, or if you prefer anonymity please send questions in a Substack message or via email to clallamityjen@gmailcom with the subject ‘Questions for Doug’.

Clallam County Letters:

The next issue of Clallam County Letters comes out Monday, January 5, 2026.

CC Letters delivers civic engagement to your inbox with letters to the leaders from the residents of Clallam County.

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

A Real Conversation with Marge, the Nextdoor Denizen

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 13:30:00 GMT

The questions I asked Marge are below; read the full transcript of the interview by clicking the ‘Transcript’ button under the podcast box at the top of the article.

Hello, I’m Clallamity Jen. Today I’m interviewing Marge who is a supporter of the Clallam County Watchdog and is active on Nextdoor. Thank you for doing this interview with me, Marge.

For those listening who don’t know you, including myself because we just met, could you please share a little about yourself, starting with how long you have lived in Clallam County?

What brought you here?

What area of Clallam County do you live in?

Are you retired or active in a profession?

What is your favorite color?

Do you have any hobbies?

We’re currently in your Airbnb here in Port Angeles, and when I learned the other day that you have an Airbnb it made me think about the December 14, 2025, article from Jake Seegers on CC Watchdog entitled Serenity Over Sanity; did you read that one?

The article “exposes how Clallam County’s homelessness system has drifted from its mission.” A section of the article mentions an October 7th meeting of the Homelessness Task Force that included Mariposa House, a women’s shelter in Forks. Regarding an issue that had to do with a large family who had fled another state, the Executive Director of Mariposa House, Beverly Lee, stated: I actually probably could have rented an Airbnb or something for a family that size.

So, I was wondering, as an Airbnb operator, if you were to receive a call from a local shelter or social service organization asking to rent your Airbnb for people in need of temporary housing, is there any regulation or law that requires you to rent your Airbnb to them, or can you say no?

* Learn more about PacWest Stays, a local Port Angeles business offering services to rental property owners and travelers visiting the Olympic National Park.

(Editor’s Note: Airbnb has a separate service called Airbnb.org that does allow for rentals at reduced rates or no cost through social services; hosts are not mandated to take part in Airbnb.org, it is voluntary. I did not know this when I asked the question, and Marge is speaking of her experience and knowledge as an Airbnb host. Learn more here.)

How long have you been on Nextdoor and why did you start using that platform?

Submitted Questions:

I have observed Marge on Nextdoor for some time now. She is diligent about sharing articles and creating space for both support of the topic as well as opposing views.

I also observe a series of repeat commenters on her posts who come to “gang up” on her and sometimes will attempt to stereotype her or degrade her.

So my questions:

1. Do you feel there is currently a coordinated effort to ban you on nextdoor?

2. Why do you feel like many people are not comfortable sharing support to your shared articles even though they may agree with you?

3. Have you ever felt that some comments made towards you are threatening?

4. What can you tell others who may want to share an article on nextdoor so that they may share their message without feeling backlash from contributing commenters who do not support the articles?

(Thank you for talking with Marge, I often will jump in to support her on Nextdoor. I consider her a friend, though I haven’t yet met her in person)

Do you notice double standards on Nextdoor, where people who do the same things as you don’t get suspended?

Do you ever think about leaving Nextdoor if they keep suspending you?

How many times have you been suspended?

Are you on any other social media platforms?

Questions from the Jeff Tozzer, the Clallam County Watchdog:

1) What was she like, politically, in her 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, etc? How has she changed, and what caused that change?

2) Does she ever get her feelings hurt? They really dog pile on her. Has anyone taken it too far?

3) According to Substack, Marge is the top “sharer” meaning she has brought in more new subscribers to CCWD than anyone — 89! CCWD comes in second at 54. What is her secret to “evangelizing” people and converting them to be Watchdoggers? What is her schtick? Her sales pitch?

4) What is something that CCWD has published that hasn’t aligned with her views, been too critical, or that she has disagreed with?

5) What was the first CCWD article she remembers reading?

6) Which article made her the angriest and got her blood pumping?

7) What does she wish CCWD would cover more of?

Why is transparency important to you, and how did it become so important to you?

What do you think would make Clallam County better?

What are you looking forward to in 2026?

I’m going to wrap up with my interview tag question: Who would you like me to interview in the Watchdog community, or someone else in Clallam County? I will do my best to interview whoever you mention, and by mentioning them it gives me a reason to reach out to them — that’s how the ‘tag’ part works.

Do you have anything you’d like to add or share?

Thank you for your time today, Marge, and answering these questions. I hope the listeners learned more about you and enjoyed hearing local people in Clallam County having a real conversation.

Thank you for listening and I’ll be back with another interview soon.

First Shot of 2026:

Find out what’s happening in Clallam County from the satirical side of life with the first Strait Shooter edition of 2026, hitting inboxes at 6:02am today!

Get the lowdown on Equity Person, the vice-filled future of Clallam County, the latest donut shop closure and the newest Land Back activists, plus another sighting of the rogue electric golf caddy making its way across the Peninsula.

Clallam County Letters:

Clallam County commissioners can be redressed by the people via email:

* Mark Ozias: Mark.Ozias@clallamcountywa.gov

* Randy Johnson: Randy.Johnson@clallamcountywa.gov

* Mike French: Mike.French@clallamcountywa.gov

* Loni Gores, Clerk: Loni.Gores@clallamcountywa.gov

Find all other Clallam County officials, offices, and employees in the staff directory.

To have your letter published in Clallam County Letters, please include clallamityjen@gmail.com in the CC field.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Substack Saturday

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 27 Dec 2025 13:30:00 GMT

The script to today’s podcast is below and the full transcript, including anything I talked about off script, is under the podcast box at the top of the article. Click the ‘Transcript’ button to read the automated transcript.

Hello everyone. I’m Clallamity Jen, a rural GenX housewife, a Substack blogger, and, as the Clallam County Watchdog has described me, a meme legend.

I hope everyone is enjoying the last Saturday of 2025, and I thank you for including me in it by listening to my podcast or reading my Clallamity Jen blog.

Today I wanted to talk about my two newest Substack blogs, which are nothing like my Clallamity Jen blog. So, don’t expect more memes and commentary.

These new blogs incorporate something Jeff, the Watchdog, often says in his podcast — this is a we thing, not a me thing.

These new blogs aren’t about my content but are really about content from the local citizens. I just edit the blogs and offer a place for content from you.

Clallam County Letters:

The first blog I want to talk about is Clallam County Letters.

I’ve written about this blog before, and the Watchdog has shared information about it as well — and thank you for that, Watchdog!

The focus of Clallam County Letters is publishing emails from local residents that have been sent to elected officials in Clallam County, including elected officials in the cities in Clallam County, which are Sequim, Port Angeles, Forks.

Basically, any email sent from someone in Clallam County to a local elected official or government office, including the state or federal level too; because those emails are public record.

When it comes to these public records, I don’t agree with emails from citizens who are redressing government going unaddressed, which they may not all go unaddressed but based on comments I read in Watchdog articles, many emails do go unaddressed.

So, I want more people to know about the public record emails than just the sender and recipients; the more people who can see the letters of public record, the more people will understand what is going on out here; at least that’s my theory and I’m curious enough to see if publishing people’s letters to elected officials will help.

Also, my professional background, training, and degree is in court reporting. For those unfamiliar with court reporting, it is more than the skill of stenography. Court reporters are guardians of the record; the record being a transcript of everything said in the proceedings.

Court reporters serve as an unbiased third party, meaning they are not on either side of the plaintiff or defendant; they are part of a proceeding for one reason only — to take down the record and guard it.

What this means to me is that I am in a perfect position to be the editor of Clallam County Letters because I see it as guarding the public record by creating a platform for those emails to have a voice that goes beyond an inbox.

For anyone who may be concerned that I will only publish emails I agree with, I welcome emails from anyone in Clallam County no matter their views. If someone sends an email praising Mark Ozias and demanding higher taxes, I will publish it.

All I care about is the public record and sharing it with more people; I do not care about the sender’s views.

I didn’t agree with every argument I listened to when I was a court reporter, but I never altered the record because of it; that was not what I was trained to do.

I strongly believe in preserving the public record, but I can’t do it without public records to publish. This is where the idea that ‘this is a we thing’ comes into play. Publishing emails of public records relies on the senders including my email address in the ‘cc’ field of an email, which is clallamityjen@gmail.com

When I receive emails sent to local elected officials, I will publish those emails, redacting identifying information of the sender which is standard procedure. The ‘About’ page of Clallam County Letters lays it all out about how the emails will be handled, so I refer people to look at that page to learn more.

The publishing schedule is twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays; and each issue will vary in the amount of letters included, depending on how many I have or how long they are.

So, please ask questions if you have any, either in a comment on this article, message me on Substack, or send me an email.

And if anyone doubts the importance of publishing these emails, or if they can make a difference, in the first issue a commenter stated:

This inspires me to be more proactive in communicating with the local officials regarding the issues that impact me and my family.

I think that says a lot, and I’m hopeful that the more emails people include me in will mean more emails for others to read, learn from, and get inspired by them.

The Sequim Monitor:

Now, onto my newest blog, which only has one article so far, but I am hopeful it will grow as well now that I am officially announcing it. The Watchdog has been dreaming of a Sequim watchdog, so I started Sequim Monitor, a Substack blog for citizens to keep an eye on Sequim.

I didn’t want to use the word ‘watchdog’ since I don’t know that this blog will live up to everything the Clallam County Watchdog is; so I did a synonym search for ‘watchdog’ and when I saw the word ‘monitor’, I knew that was the word to use; once I figured that part out, the blog fell into place.

Right now there isn’t much in the way of content, and that’s okay because it will grow. The Watchdog got me in touch with a local citizen who writes notes of the Sequim City Council meeting, and they don’t have an interest in running a blog, understandably, so I figured I’d just do it myself because that’s what I do and that’s works for me.

Since the local citizen is the one doing the important work of listening to the meetings and making notes, I don’t want that work to go to waste. All I am doing is running their notes through ChatGPT to create an article, which is then proofread to make sure nothing gets mixed up because even ChatGPT isn’t perfect, and then I post the minutes as an article.

I do include a disclaimer about the article being created by AI, which may not be necessary, but I’d just as soon let it be known AI is used but AI did not create the notes from the meeting — those came from a local citizen and it is so good of them to do that work to help others learn what is going on at the council meetings.

The article on the Sequim Monitor right now is from the Sequim City Council meeting on December 8, 2025. Also included in the article is a link to the video of the meeting, which includes links to all the documents referenced in the meeting, which is a very nice feature. So, please check it out.

Again, this is a we thing, not a me thing. This isn’t about just my content, which I’m not looking to create more content, though I may submit items that I think would be good for Sequim-focused content.

This is about local citizens submitting their content, especially if they don’t want to start their own blog or they want to keep their name out of it. I get that and I’m glad to accommodate anyone who feels that way.

The ‘About’ page of Sequim Monitor has more information about submitting articles and what to expect with this publication. This blog isn’t just about meeting minutes; the Sequim City Council meetings are just a starting point, and a very good one.

Since the council meets twice a month, I can’t say there will be a weekly publication, but I think with time more submissions will come in, or I’ll reach out to Jeff since he has a backlog, and if he wants anything related to Sequim to be put on the Monitor, I will be glad to do that so the information gets out to the people.

So, those are my new blogs that I wanted to share with you today. I think it’s a great way to end 2025 and something to look forward to in 2026. And I won’t have another podcast until 2026.

I hope everyone has a great New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, and resolutions to kick off the new year, like writing more letters to local government and including me in the ‘cc’ field, or submitting articles to the Sequim Monitor — those are excellent resolutions, for sure.

Thank you all for listening today and making time to squeeze me into your day; I really appreciate it. As always, please reach out to me with thoughts or questions, either in a comment, in a Substack message, or in an email at clallamityjen@gmail.com

Thank you for reading & listening!

Podcast Interviews:

I have two interviews coming up and plan to post them for my podcasts next Friday and Saturday.

* Marge, a seasoned Nextdoor denizen who is a supporter of the Clallam County Watchdog and stands her ground against people on Nextdoor.

* John Worthington, a public bulldog and active participant in both the Watchdog community and Clallam County.

If you have any questions you would like me to ask, please leave a comment, message me on Substack, or send me an email at clallamityjen@gmail.com.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

The Trail of Comments

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 13:30:00 GMT

The script to today’s podcast is below, though I veered away from it at times. Find the full transcript under the podcast box at the top of the article. Click the ‘Transcript’ button to read the automated transcript.

Hello, I’m Clallamity Jen and thank you for tuning in. I’m recording this on Christmas night, so I hope everyone had a merry Christmas today, and if you’re spreading your celebrations out over the next week I hope they are joyful, and if you aren’t celebrating anything then I hope you are getting plenty of rest and doing something you enjoy.

Today I wanted to talk about a public comment that was played toward the end of the companion podcast to the Clallam County Watchdog article When Giving Tuesday Meets Governing Tuesday, published on December 24, 2025.

The comment starts at 52:22 time stamp (comment is taken from the automated transcript):

Hello, I choose not to state my name. I’m a minor. I just recently turned 15 years old. I’m a freshman and I’m part of Sequim High School’s mock trial program. I recently saw a post on social media from one of the Charter Review Commissioners saying, It’s titled Blindfold Removed, and it was posted December 16th, 2025.

This post was regarding inappropriate topics such as acting out pedophilia while referring to people who were networked to another commissioner. Photos, which are unrelated, contain students in mock trial, and they are not his property and were not stated from where they were from. There were four minors in said photo and one current, I’m sorry, I think I may have restated something. It’s a submitted photo to the Squim Gazette published in an article by Michael DeShiel, February 1st, 2023. One of the students is a young woman who is a current Squim High School student that I look up to.

I’m concerned for her and my fellow peers as the comments, which are unmoderated by said commissioner, stated that anyone networked to the people in these photos were bullied, bullies or were molested how far is an elected official allowed to go when using free speech to cause outrage by using disgust and involving minors attacking my advisors and in turn attacking me and my peers thank you for your time.

This is the comment I wrote in response to the article:

Something I wanted to point out in your podcast about the anonymous student’s public comment.

I did a reverse image search on Google of the picture that was mentioned of the mock trial. Here’s what I find interesting: that picture came up attached to the Sequim Gazette, since that is where the photo originated, but it was also attached to another Watchdog article and not the Blindfold Removed article.

Here is the article Google images found the picture in, which is from April 27, 2025:

Now, if the student commenter wasn’t fed the information they read, why did they not reference this earlier article with the same picture, which includes a caption crediting it to the Sequim Gazette? Why did they only reference the article that included a section about a local resident wearing a hat promoting Trump as a pedophile? Plus, wouldn’t it be up to the Sequim Gazette to reach out to CCWD and ask that the picture be taken down for copyright issues?

Kind of Fischy if you ask me. LOL.

Unfortunately because the student commenter stated they were part of the mock trials, that outed the relationship they have with someone who is 100% against the Watchdog, raising doubt in my mind that they were speaking from a place impartiality. I applaud them for speaking up and going through the motions, but I do question, just like the Watchdog, if they were speaking for themselves or if someone fed them the information.

I remember being 15 and saying lots of things, and believing people in authority, because I didn’t know any better; maybe I was the only 15 year old in the history of the world who was like that, but I doubt it; especially considering the frontal lobe isn’t fully developed in 15-year-olds.

Great podcast and article!

The Watchdog addressed the minor’s public comment in his podcast, and I wanted to address it as well and cover some new ground.

First of all, this is not an attack on the minor. I do not know who they are and while I think it’s good of them to speak out, I have reservations about the venue where they are speaking out.

I take issue with their argument, and since this anonymous minor participates in the mock trials, they should understand that a counterargument is not a personal attack — this is how legal procedure works. Prosecution makes an argument for their side, defense counters with their argument for their side; there is nothing personal about making a counterargument, and there is nothing personal about what I am going to talk about.

When it comes to the venue, why did they bring the matter to the attention of the Charter Review Commission when the issue was about what was written on the Watchdog blog? The Commission doesn’t control the blog, as much as they would like to so they could stop free speech; the blog is the property of Jeff Tozzer and if someone doesn’t like what is on it, they can contact him; but no one did.

That leads to the issue of why didn’t the minor have a problem with the Sequim Gazette publishing the photo? Why was it okay for the Sequim Gazette to publish pictures of minors, but not okay for a blogger to use the same photo to make commentary and criticism against an elected official?

And if the issue is about protecting minors, although I’m not clear what the public comment was trying to make a point of other than attacking the Watchdog, I would like to know why a minor is at a public forum? How is that protecting a minor especially if it invites opposition to their public comment?

If it’s wrong for a photo of minors to be used after being published with consent in a newspaper, how is it right for a minor to make a public comment in a public venue? If minors want to be protected, they can stay home and stay out of public venues.

If minors want to get involved in government, I suggest waiting until they are old enough to vote. Minors can’t buy pornography; does that mean they should be getting prepared for buying it three years before they can? Until they are old enough to vote, there is student government which is their realm. I can’t get involved in student government since I’m not a student; they can’t vote, so I have the unpopular view that they should stick to their realm and leave the civic involvement to those who are old enough to vote.

In regards to my referencing the frontal lobe in 15-year-olds, here is what Google AI gleaned from my search about the issue:

Underdeveloped prefrontal cortex (PFC) makes individuals, especially teens, more easily persuaded, as this brain region handles judgment, impulse control, and consequence assessment, and its delayed maturation (until mid-20s) combined with a mature limbic system (emotions/rewards) leads to greater impulsivity, risk-taking, and susceptibility to peer pressure/novelty, making them less likely to resist immediate gratification or think long-term.

I’m not alone in thinking the anonymous minor was either coached or fed information about what to say in their public comment; and if teens are more easily persuaded due to their still-developing frontal lobe, which is a matter of science and not a personal attack, it stands to reason that if they were coached for their public comment, they would easily give in especially for someone they are close to and want approval from.

And that’s the other thing — if the anonymous minor was either coached or fed what to say in their public comment, then my counterargument isn’t even against a minor’s argument; it’s against the adult who created the argument. So, while it may look like it’s not hard to pick apart a minor’s argument, which it could be their own argument, for all I know, and kind of suspect, I’m picking apart an adult’s argument. Either way, it’s not an attack on anyone personally, it’s just a counterargument.

Although, I do find it fascinating and amusing that the Watchdog is the only one being called out for their content when it comes to writing about Jim Stoffer or Susan Fisch. Again, am I chopped liver? One public commenter who supported Jim Stoffer only mentioned the Watchdog’s content against Jim Stoffer, when I have done plenty of memes about Stoffer and the memes are not in support of him; and I did another meme-focused article where I mention Susan Fisch, appropriately titled Gettin’ Fischy With It. And yet, no one calls out my content for attacking their mentor.

As I suspect, this isn’t about content at all but about the person behind the content, which is really just discrimination, since him and I aren’t being treated equally when we are both creating content that attacks the same elected officials.

So, I brought the issue up to my husband about the Sequim Gazette photo being used on CC Watchdog; I was curious about the legalities of it, if the minor who made the public comment was trying to make it sound as if the Watchdog had no right to use that photo.

My husband then put it to ChatGPT, and here is what it came back with.

What ChatGPT Gleaned:

What CC Watchdog did is squarely legal under multiple layers of U.S. and Washington law.

Here is why.

⸻

1. The Sequim Gazette already published it

That matters.

Once a newspaper lawfully publishes a photo:

• It becomes news media

• It becomes public record in the constitutional sense

• It becomes protected by First Amendment republication doctrine

CC Watchdog did not take a private photo.

They reposted a news photo.

That alone defeats 90% of any legal claim.

⸻

2. It was taken inside a school — but at a public event

Schools are not fully private when:

• A public official is present

• Press is invited

• The event is reported

• It involves public business

That becomes a limited public forum.

Students who appear in the background of a news photo taken at a public event have no privacy claim.

Courts have ruled this repeatedly.

⸻

3. Newsworthiness overrides minor privacy

U.S. Supreme Court precedent:

If an image is lawfully obtained and newsworthy, it may be published even if it includes minors.

The image shows:

• A public official

• In a school

• Surrounded by students

• In a news context

That is textbook newsworthiness.

The kids are incidental to the story.

That is fully protected.

⸻

4. Republishing a newspaper photo is protected speech

CC Watchdog is:

• Commenting on public officials

• Using an image already published

• For political and civic commentary

That is:

• Fair use

• Press freedom

• Core political speech

That is the highest protected category under the Constitution.

⸻

5. There is no “minor exception” here

No law says:

“If a minor is visible, publication is illegal.”

That only applies to:

• Sexual content

• Medical records

• School disciplinary records

• Commercial advertising

This is none of those.

⸻

6. Why this objection is being made

This is a weaponized misunderstanding used to suppress coverage.

It works because:

• People panic when “children” is invoked

• Platforms over-moderate

• Publishers sometimes self-censor

But legally?

It has no teeth.

⸻

Bottom line

CC Watchdog was allowed to:

• Repost the Sequim Gazette photo

• Show students incidentally

• Use it in political or civic commentary

The student claiming otherwise is repeating a myth, not a law.

If CC Watchdog removed it, that would be out of caution — not legal obligation.

Case Law from ChatGPT:

Here’s what Washington-specific case law and court rulings actually show about photographing/filming people (including minors) in public or public-interest contexts — there is no Washington appellate case holding that posting a lawfully taken news photo of minors in a public setting is per se illegal. Courts focus on context and privacy expectations, not age alone.

⸻

1) Lewis v. State, Dept. of Licensing (Washington Supreme Court)

• Citation: 157 Wash. 2d 446 (2006)

• Holding: Recording police conducting official duties in public is not a violation of state privacy law, because there is no reasonable expectation of privacy in that context.

• The Court held that RCW 9.73.030 (which otherwise prohibits recording private communications without consent) does not apply to public interactions involving government officials in a public place. This supports the principle that public activity (including government officials interacting with the public) may be recorded and published.

Relevance: Although not about minors per se, this establishes that Washington courts reject claims of privacy for individuals in public contexts when there’s no reasonable expectation of privacy.

⸻

2) State v. Glas (2002) — Washington Supreme Court

• Citation: 146 Wash. 2d 668 (2002)

• Holding: The Washington voyeurism statute does not apply to photography taken in purely public places where no reasonable expectation of privacy exists.

• In this case the Court reversed convictions where defendants had taken up-skirt photos of women, holding that the statute did not cover photography in public absent a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Relevance: Reinforces that Washington courts treat the location and privacy expectation as the test — not the identity or age of the subjects.

⸻

3) Right to Photograph Public Records/Spaces (Washington practice)

• Washington media and public have been affirmed the right to photograph public court records and other public documents. While not a published appellate decision, courts and press associations pushed back against clerks attempting to ban photography of public court records — a practical affirmation of press rights in Washington.

Relevance: The broader reporting context in Washington favors transparency and access; there’s no analogous case saying media cannot publish images taken lawfully in public settings.

⸻

4) Washington Right of Publicity & Privacy Statutes (Statutory Framework)

Washington has statues that recognize:

• A right of publicity (RCW 63.60) — protects use of someone’s name/likeness in commercial advertising without consent, but exempts newsworthy/educational/public-interest use.

• Invasion of privacy definition (RCW 42.56.050) — requires that published information would be highly offensive and not of legitimate public concern to be actionable.

These statutes imply that ordinary news photos of public events do not give rise to automatic liability.

⸻

5) Common Law in Washington

Washington has recognized privacy torts (e.g., appropriation, false light), but there is no appellate decision that creates a broad prohibition against publishing lawful news images of people (including minors) where there’s no reasonable expectation of privacy.

• Cases like Reid v. Pierce County show Washington courts understand privacy rights, but require offensive, non-newsworthy disclosures to support claims.

⸻

Why There’s No Washington Case Banning Publication of News Photos with Minors

Washington courts apply a privacy expectation test — where the photo was taken and what it depicts matter. Public school events and other open-to-public events do not create a reasonable expectation of privacy. Thus:

• No appellate case bars publishing photos taken in public of identifiable people, including minors, in ordinary newsworthy contexts.

• Privacy or publicity claims require something more offensive, private, or commercial.

Legal Authorities from ChatGPT:

Here are real legal authorities and examples showing how U.S. law treats publication of photos that include minors — especially in news and public-interest contexts. There’s no general prohibition on publishing images of children taken in public or in newsworthy situations.

⸻

U.S. Supreme Court First Amendment Cases (Directly Relevant)

1) Smith v. Daily Mail Publishing Co., 443 U.S. 97 (1979)

• Holding: The First Amendment protects the publication of a lawfully obtained name or information about a minor involved in a newsworthy matter.

• Key Point: A state cannot punish the truthful publication of a minor’s name or picture obtained from public records or observation just because the subject is a minor.

This case is often cited for the broader principle that news media cannot be barred from publishing information about minors when the information is lawfully obtained and of legitimate public interest.

2) Oklahoma Publishing Co. v. District Court, 430 U.S. 308 (1977)

• Holding: The Supreme Court reversed an order that had enjoined the press from publishing the name and picture of a minor in connection with juvenile proceedings.

• Key Point: Even juvenile court records (which are typically sealed) cannot justify a blanket ban on publishing information a news organization lawfully obtains.

This underscores that courts may not impose broad publication bans based solely on the subject being a minor.

⸻

Lower Court and Tort Law Context — Newsworthiness Defense

3) Third Circuit — Bowley v. City of Uniontown Police Dep’t, 404 F.3d 783 (3d Cir. 2005)

• Context: A lawsuit against a newspaper over publication of information about a juvenile.

• Outcome: The court affirmed dismissal, holding that truthful and lawfully obtained information about matters of public significance could be published.

Although this case dealt with juvenile court reporting, it illustrates the newsworthiness defense that applies broadly in privacy tort cases: if content is newsworthy and lawfully obtained, a publisher generally cannot be held liable.

4) Newsworthiness Defense in Privacy Torts

• Privacy torts (like public disclosure of private facts) can apply to identifiable individuals, but courts evaluate:

• whether the information/photos were lawfully obtained

• whether they involve matters of legitimate public concern

• whether publication would be highly offensive to a reasonable person

In practice, newsworthiness often outweighs privacy claims.

These principles protect publication of photos in news articles — even when minors are present — when the photo is part of a legitimate public-interest story.

⸻

Fair Use / Republishing News Content

5) Núñez v. Caribbean Int’l News Corp., 235 F.3d 18 (1st Cir. 2000)

• Context: Copyright case involving republication of photographs.

• Outcome: The court held that republication of photographs in a news story can qualify as fair use (even if the original photographer didn’t consent) when the use is newsworthy and the images were lawfully obtained.

• Relevance: This supports the idea that reposting a news photo — like CC Watchdog did — can be lawful, especially in news commentary.

⸻

General Legal Principles Supporting Publication of Photos That Include Minors

6) Legitimate Public Photography

• It is generally legal in the U.S. to photograph people, including minors, in public places. There is no general rule requiring consent for publication.

The common rule is that location matters (public vs. private) and context matters (newsworthy vs. purely commercial exploitation), not age per se.

⸻

Important Distinction — Sexualized Content

Separate from these First Amendment principles:

• Child pornography laws (e.g., New York v. Ferber, and related federal statutes) prohibit sexualized images of minors regardless of context. Any depiction of minors in sexual conduct is criminal.

This is a narrow but absolute legal rule distinct from the general freedom to publish photographs.

Podcast Interviews:

I have two interviews coming up and plan to post them for my podcasts next Friday and Saturday.

* Marge, a seasoned Nextdoor denizen who is a supporter of the Clallam County Watchdog.

* John Worthington, a public bulldog and active participant in both the Watchdog community and Clallam County.

If you have any questions you would like me to ask, please leave a comment, message me on Substack, or send me an email clallamityjen@gmail.com.

Strait Shooter Dead Zone Edition:

Get your Friday helping of post-Christmas humor from the best (and only) reliable source of unreliable news in Clallam County!

Thank you for reading, laughing & listening!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Waking the Non-Voters

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 13:30:00 GMT

In today’s podcast I’m addressing two questions that were submitted to me through Substack and in an email.

First, I answered a personal question about me and my husband: You and your Strait Shooter husband have the same wonderful sense of humor, is this what brought you two together?

Answer: Thank you for this question. I’m actually not sure if it brought us together, since I never considered it back then when we were first together; we met in 1999. But over the years, before we were married we had break-ups and make-ups, I’ve learned for myself that his humor and our humor compatibility is essential to our relationship, and helps keep us together, keeps us sane in a way.

The second question comes from an email with the title: What will it take to wake up non-voters?

The email explains the scenario of a voter who knows non-voters who complain about the problems in Clallam County but they don’t vote.

The email ends with two questions: What can we do in addition to shedding light on the shenanigans our elected officials try to pass off as normal behavior? If there are non-voting sympathizers out there, what will it take to get them to the ballot box?

Answer: Thank you for this great question and I hope I can offer some insight into the non-voting issue, because I actually believe in a person’s right not to vote.

Voting isn’t mandated, people don’t have to vote; a person can’t vote without registering, of course, but voting is based on free will, and that is definitely the challenge because it’s trying to get someone to choose to vote.

First I wanted to share some of my thoughts on not voting.

I have heard the common cliche that ‘if you don’t vote you can’t complain’ and I don’t hold with that, because to me not exercising one of my rights doesn’t mean I can’t exercise my other rights; I don’t think my freedom of speech should be taken away because I don’t vote.

So that argument doesn’t hold with me, and based on my own experiences when someone tells me if I don’t vote I can’t complain, it doesn’t make me respond by voting.

However, I find it amusing to take that cliche for all it is worth, in that I will vote just so I can complain. In fact, I will complain so much that people may want me to stop voting just so I shut up.

So, there’s an example of how to get a non-voter to keep not voting — tell them they can’t complain. It never worked on me and only made me laugh.

But I think the complaining aspect is important, because if someone is complaining and not voting, it’s fair to ask why they aren’t voting.

If someone isn’t voting and not complaining, then no one will notice most likely and that non-voter is probably fine with not voting since they don’t complain, and that’s their right.

So, it isn’t just about getting non-voters to vote, but to get the non-voters who are upset with what is going on to start voting.

When it comes to talking to a non-voter to get them to vote, I think it is a multi-pronged issue and I want to address a few of those prongs.

First, I would talk to a non-voter one on one.

Because if the conversation is one voter against two non-voters, the voter is outnumbered and may be shut down before they get very far. I like to pick my battles and that is one I wouldn’t pick, but that’s just me.

Also, as I’ve learned from experience and maybe others have too, people can respond differently if they are talking one on one and don’t have another person on their side to impress.

Not saying this is all people, but I’ve noticed this behavior and it’s important to understand it instead of wasting time on someone who isn’t going to listen anyway.

So, the ideal situation to me is to talk one on one to a non-voter. Not saying it can’t be done the other way, I just wouldn’t attempt it for myself.

Of course, listening to two non-voters talk about why they don’t vote could shed light on why they don’t vote and give clues about how to break through that non-voter mindset.

Next, I would find out if they are registered to vote.

Because if they aren’t registered then they can’t vote even if they want to. So, that’s the first thing to ask. I’ll include a link to registering to vote in Washington State in this post:

It could be as simple as that, making sure they’re registered to vote.

So, if they are registered, I would then ask why they don’t vote.

Maybe they don’t vote because they don’t understand it and don’t know how to begin to understand it.

I think of this like asking someone if they are illiterate because it’s not something people are open about, and they may feel embarrassed or ashamed for not knowing something they think they should know.

Instead of asking for help, they might talk big about not caring and or how stupid something is, only to cover up what they don’t know.

Granted, some people who are registered to vote just might not care, but that’s why it’s important to talk to them to find out if it’s a not knowing thing or a not caring thing.

If they don’t know, then maybe they need help understanding the basics of how to vote; if they don’t care, then they need to be shown why it’s important to care.

To clarify, I’m not saying ‘tell someone how to vote’ as far as how to vote on an issue or for a candidate. Knowing how to fill out a ballot is not the same as knowing who to vote for.

Maybe they want to know what to do with a ballot, how to fill it out and return it; or how to learn about the issues and the candidates so they know what or who to vote for. I’ll add some instructions I found in a 2023 Clallam County Voters Pamphlet that shows how to fill out a ballot and where to return them in Clallam County:

When it comes to a non-voter not knowing what to do, they may also feel overwhelmed by all the information about the issues and candidates.

It can feel very intimidating, especially if someone doesn’t understand the lingo and how it all works.

But if a voter can talk to a non-voter and answer their questions, I think that would go a long way to helping them get involved with voting or at least starting to follow the issues.

I really can’t blame someone for not voting if they don’t feel confident in their understanding about what they are voting for. But if they start to follow the issues, that could help them get on the path to voting.

For non-voters who don’t care, I would want to find out why they don’t care.

Did a candidate let them down by not doing what they said they would do; or did something happen that eroded their trust in the voting system?

For me personally, I question and doubt the counting of the ballots; and I will probably always use the example of the Christine Gregoire governor election here in Washington State in the early 2000s, when she demanded recount after recount, when Dino Rossi had more votes, and with every recount more missing ballots were discovered in her favor.

As well, this past week the Clallam County Watchdog’s post entitled Power, Pay, and Process at the Conservation District, dated December 18, 2025, included the section about a court voiding the Conservation District election from 2024.

The Conservation District incorporated some of their own voting rules that were not authorized by law. A citizen challenged the Conservation District election results and the court ruled in favor of the citizen’s case that proved the election violated administrative codes and other procedures.

So, even in something as small as a conservation district, the counting and voting process can be corrupted by individuals involved who are more interested in getting their way than following laws and procedures.

And that can go a long way to turning people away from voting because they see that the system is corrupt — it is proven to be corrupted by people — and the non-voter sees no point in bothering with it.

Not trusting the counting and election process can be a tough obstacle to get over if someone is trying to convince a non-voter to start voting again.

But something to keep in mind that is worth pointing out to a non-voter who doesn’t trust the counting process — Jesse Ventura won in his state for governor and Donald Trump won twice for president.

Both of them are rather anti-establishment in that they are not typical status quo politicians who were groomed for office through decades of being an elected official. Both of them upset the system in a good way.

To me it’s a hopeful reminder that voting can make a difference, because neither of them would have beaten the status quo system without people casting their votes.

Also, in the last election cycle in Clallam County, the levy lid lift didn’t pass — that was because enough people voted no. That’s a good sign to me, and it proves that the more people vote against bad policies and self-serving officials, that they can make a difference for the better in Clallam County.

All non-voters are different though.

So that’s why I think it’s a multi-pronged and not a one-size-fits-all solution. It takes talking to a non-voter and understanding their views.

I did talk about this with my husband (a former Marine), and he gave me some insight about how to get through to some men who don’t vote, though maybe not all men — basically it comes down to shaming them.

Some men, and people in general, do respond to that; I’m not saying I would do it, and it all depends on the people involved.

Maybe a voter is good friends with a non-voter, and knows that the non-voter responds to shaming and ridicule by their friends.

Granted, I’m not a man, I don’t know the ins and outs of the male mind, but I don’t discount what my husband says since he is a man, he works with men and is around them more than me. So, take that for what it’s worth.

It’s a very good question and not an easy problem to solve.

I know for me, as soon as I renewed my ID card this year, I checked some box about having ballots sent to me since I was already registered to vote, and they started showing up again.

A few years back after I sent in my ballot, I got something from the county auditor’s office about having to call them to verify something, and I was more annoyed by it than anything so I just didn’t bother.

But, now I’m getting ballots again, and this last election I checked the website that my ballot was received, so I’ll assume it was correctly counted, though I will always have my doubts. Seeing that the levy lid lift did fail this time, I have more faith though and plan to keep voting.

For those who are complaining about the problems in Clallam County, I would recommend going to Clallam County Watchdog to start following the issues.

It can feel like a fire hose when a person is new to it and doesn’t understand it all; that’s why it’s important to just start reading about the issues and the understanding will come with more exposure to the information.

It takes time, and that’s an important thing for a non-voter to understand; it may not click all at once, so give it time and don’t give up on learning about what is going on locally because it does impact every facet of life for residents in Clallam County.

I hope my long answer helped and I’m glad to answer more questions in my next podcast that I’ll put out next week, the Friday and Saturday following Christmas.

Please leave questions and feedback in a comment, message me on Substack, or send me an email at clallamityjen@gmail.com.

Thank you so much for your time (and for sharing)!

You’re Invited to a Community Event Today,

Saturday, December 20th:

Who: Both members and nonmembers are welcome to come join in the fun!

What: A fundraiser to benefit Toys for Tots as part of the Aerie’s Annual Christmas Day Celebration

* Silent auction items include an autographed Epiphone acoustic guitar donated by the Motor City Madman himself, Ted Nugent (minimum bid, $750)

* Two $100 value party packs from Laurel Lanes Bowling that includes 2 lanes for 2 hours of bowling, 4 pizzas, and 2 pitchers of soda

* $50 gift cards from Cloudy Bay Bakery and Jiffy Lube

* A Roadside Kit from Les Schwab

* 6 Rage 100-grain Trypan mechanical broadheads

* Hunter’s cutlery collection featuring a custom-quality BenchmadeSaddle Mountain Skinner 4.2-inch knife, Gerber multitool, and Gatco Scepter 2.0 Survival Tool (minimum bid, $100)

* Plus, items from Napa Auto Parts, Nike, the Olympic Book Store, and more.

* All proceeds benefit Toys for Tots, which provides toys, books, and emotional support for local disadvantaged kids during the holidays.

When: Saturday, December 20, 2025

* From noon until 3:00 pm, bring the kids to meet Santa Claus and the Grinch, and participate in some fun arts & crafts.

* Bidding will also open at noon for the many amazing items donated for a silent auction and ends at 7:30 pm when winners are announced.

* From 3:00-5:00 pm, a traditional Christmas movie will be shown.

* Finally, from 6:30-9:30 pm, adults can come dance to the Classic Rock/Country sounds of local favorite, the Iron Horse Band, featuring Marc Ensey, who’s just back from a recording session in Nashville.

* There will be food and beverages available for purchase.

* Admission to the evening dance portion of the event is $10 for Eagles members, and $13 for nonmembers.

Where: Port Angeles Fraternal Order of Eagles, 2843 E. Myrtle St., Port Angeles

For more information, call or text Marc Ensey, 360-477-9070

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

An Evening with Dr. Sarah

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 13:30:00 GMT

Thank you to Dr. Sarah for making time in her schedule to sit down with me last night at Olympic Medical Center in Port Angeles.

We met at Seasons Cafe in OMC, which is open to all, not just patients and staff at the hospital. Since it is a public hospital funded by tax dollars, it’s a good reason to visit, have a bite to eat, and enjoy the views in the spacious dining area. Here is the description from the OMC website:

Seasons Café offers breathtaking views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and a healthy menu prepared by Executive Chef Matthew Fineout and Chef Michael Wall.

Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner entrees, as well as a fresh assortment of snacks, baked goods, homemade soups, fresh sandwiches and salads, and desserts. Vegetarian and/or vegan options are available on most days.

* The Café is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

* Breakfast is from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.

* Lunch is from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

* Dinner is from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The Interview:

The interview covered a lot of ground. The transcript is available under the podcast display at the top of this post; click the ‘Transcript’ button to read the automated transcript.

Thank you to all who contributed questions for the interview! Here is the list of all the questions I asked, and answers can be found in the transcript:

Questions I Asked Dr. Sarah:

For those listening who don’t know you, could you please share a little about yourself as far as the work you do in Clallam County and what area you reside in?

How long have you lived in Clallam County? What brought you to the area and Forks specifically?

What do you think makes Forks unique from the other communities in Clallam County?

What are some of the biggest challenges with living in Forks?

Can you tell me about how the power outages in Forks impact medical care?

Do you think Forks feels represented by Clallam County government?

Are you able to get everything you need in Forks as far as groceries and commerce, or do you depend on Port Angeles or Sequim or other areas?

When you see news on CC Watchdog about the commissioners wanting to implement a pay-per-mile tax that would charge drivers for every mile they drive on public roads, without even putting it to a vote, does that concern you with the amount of driving you do for work and life in general since you live in Forks?

What brought you to the Watchdog?

What issue or issues are most important to you?

What motivates you to be involved?

What are your plans for the future with Watchdog?

Why/how did transparency become so important to you?

You are the one who discovered that Jim Stoffer, charter review commissioner, forwarded an email marked Attorney Client Privilege to someone outside of the group of commissioners; right?

How did that public records request come about?

What would you like to see happen with that issue? Should there be anything that happens to Jim Stoffer such as an apology, reprimand, censure?

Are you planning any more public records requests?

Schedules: What time do you wake up? What do you have for breakfast? What do your workouts consist of? Basically, how do you get your kids out the door for school, work, have dinner on the table, and have all the time to participate in public meetings and follow so many things that are going on in the community?

What are your favorite pastimes?

What is something you would like to do, but don’t have time for right now?

Have you received any blowback either from your independent digging or for your contributions to CCWD?

What outcomes would you like to see as a result of your community involvement?

So, what is your favorite color?

With the holiday season upon us, what do you enjoy most about this time of year?

Can you give any hints about what your Saturday post is going to be about on Clallam County Watchdog?

Is there anything else you would like to say or share with the listeners?

Who would you like to hear interviewed in a podcast?

Forks, Washington:

Here are some resources I gathered for learning more about Forks, WA, where Dr. Sarah lives in Clallam County.

Resources are a mix of maps from the Clallam County website, Google AI overviews of Clallam County’s West End and Forks, and other useful links that provide more information about Forks.

Google AI Overview of Clallam County’s West End:

In Clallam County’s West End, which spans roughly from Port Angeles west to the Olympic Peninsula’s tip, District 3 encompasses areas like Forks, LaPush, Neah Bay, Clallam Bay, Sekiu, and extends along the coast and inland, covering smaller communities near the Hoh, Soleduck, and Bogachiel Rivers, focusing on Olympic National Park boundaries and tribal lands.

Key Places & Features:

* Major Towns: Forks, LaPush, Clallam Bay, Sekiu, Neah Bay.

* Coastal Areas: Cape Flattery, Rialto Beach, Shi Shi Beach, Olympic National Park coastline.

* Rivers/Valleys: Hoh River, Soleduck River, Bogachiel River, Calawah River.

* Tribal Lands: Makah Reservation (Neah Bay), Quileute Reservation (LaPush).

* Roads: Highway 101, Highway 112, Mora Road, Ozette Loop.

How to Visualize It:

* District 3 roughly covers the entire western portion of Clallam County, including the Olympic National Park’s western side and the communities west of Lake Crescent.

* You’d find places like Joyce, Deer Park, and the Elwha area at the eastern edge of the district, moving into the dense forest and coast towards the Pacific.

Google AI Overview of Forks:

Forks, WA, is a small city in Clallam County known for its extremely rainy climate, lush temperate rainforests, and as a gateway to Olympic National Park. Key data points show a population of around 3,400-3,500, with diverse demographics leaning conservative, significant poverty levels (around 20-23%), median household incomes near $46k (2023 data), and major industries including Public Admin, Retail, and Healthcare.

Demographics & Economy:

* Population: Around 3,400-3,500 within city limits.

* Income: Median household income ~$46,389 (2023); Per capita income ~$30,573.

* Poverty: About 23.1% of the population lives below the poverty line.

* Major Industries: Public Administration, Retail Trade, Healthcare, Construction.

* Housing: Median home value ~$193,900; Most residents own homes.

Environment & Lifestyle:

* Climate: Very high rainfall (around 113 inches annually) and humidity, making it one of the rainiest places in the contiguous U.S..

* Geography: Located in Clallam County, near Olympic National Park.

* Vibe: Sparse suburban feel, family-oriented, lean conservative.

Key Facts:

* ZIP Code: 98331.

* Incorporated: 1945.

* Government: City services include Police, Fire, Water, and Wastewater.

Sources: Niche, Census Reporter, Data USA, City of Forks, Weather Spark, Wikipedia.

Learn More About Forks, WA:

* City of Forks

* Forks Chamber of Commerce

* Forks, WA: Data USA

* Forks, WA: Google Maps

What is the Public Records Act in Washington State?

Dr. Sarah mentioned the Public Records Act in the interview. For those who don’t know a lot about it, here is the Google AI overview of the PRA, which is easier to understand than reading the legal codes.

Below the overview are links to the RCW regarding the Public Records Act and another useful link to help understand the basics of the Public Records Act.

Google AI Overview:

The Washington Public Records Act (PRA) is a state law ensuring public access to government records, based on the principle that citizens need information to control their government, requiring agencies to disclose records unless a narrow exemption applies, covering various formats (writings, sounds, etc.) and allowing for inspection and copies (with potential fees), with provisions for prompt responses and appeals for denials. It functions similarly to FOIA but applies specifically to Washington state and local agencies, with numerous exemptions for things like personal data, investigative details, and preliminary documents.

Key Aspects:

* Broad Access:

All records held by state and local agencies are public unless specifically exempted.

* “Writing” Definition:

Includes letters, sounds, pictures, digital files, and more, regardless of format.

* Request Process:

Doesn’t require specific forms, but written requests are often better; agencies must respond within a set timeframe.

* Fees:

Inspection is free, but agencies can charge for the actual cost of copying.

* Exemptions:

Over 100 exemptions exist (e.g., personal info, ongoing investigations, preliminary drafts), but they are interpreted narrowly.

How it Works (Simplified):

* Submit Request: Ask your agency for specific records.

* Agency Review: They have 5 days to respond (can be extended) and decide to release or deny.

* Denial: If denied, you can appeal to the agency, then seek a court review.

Why it Matters:

The PRA promotes government transparency and accountability, empowering citizens to understand government actions and decisions.

Learn More About the Public Records Act in Washington State:

* RCW 42.56 Public Records Act

* Public Records Act Basics

Thank you for reading, learning, listening & sharing!

It’s the Strait Shooter Friday Edition:

Get your sense of humor in gear for the weekly tour around Clallam County, where every town gets a say, none of it changes, and the meetings still run long. Click the button to read the newest non-news from the only reliable source of unreliable news in Clallam County.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Saturday Satire with the Strait Shooter

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 13:30:00 GMT

Today’s interview is with my husband in his role as the creator of the only source of satirical news in Clallam County — The Strait Shooter.

The transcript is available by clicking on the ‘Transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top.

We discuss the creation of The Strait Shooter, where story ideas come from, the wonderful comments and feedback we have received, and our views on the importance of satire in Clallam County.

Enjoy!

Now on YouTube: Podcast interview in video format with pictures from articles:

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Home Building & Micro Business Ownership in Clallam County

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:30:00 GMT

I sat down with my husband for an interview to fill today’s podcast void in the Watchdog’s absence.

My husband, John, is a former employee of two different home building companies here in Clallam County, and is now an owner/operator of his own micro business in the home trades partway through his fourth year in business.

The first half of the podcast we talk about his experiences in the home building industry:

* The home building process from start to finish

* Where do codes and inspectors come into it

* What can drive up the cost of homes

* What happens when an inspection doesn’t pass

* And more!

The second half of the podcast we talk about his experiences now as an owner/operator of a micro business in the home trades:

* How did you get started

* How much did starting the business cost

* What were the biggest obstacles to getting started

* Is there room for more home trades contractors in Clallam County

* Discussing the local Recompete Program in terms of business creation

* Click here for the article I reference in the podcast (Thanks to the commenter who left it in a comment!)

* Insights and tips for starting a micro business in Clallam County

* And more!

The interview runs a little over 2 hours, so I thank you in advance for listening!

I hope it educates people about what goes into home building and business ownership, and informs people about a local community resident and business owner, and entertains people as we had some good laughs during the process.

* An automated transcript of the interview is available for reading by clicking the ‘Transcript’ button under the podcast window at the top of this article

The goal is for another podcast on Saturday, again with my husband in his role as The Strait Shooter, the man behind the only local satirical news outlet in Clallam County — the Friday edition comes out today at 6:06 am!

Please let me know what you think; constructive criticism is welcome as I am new to this and want to provide the best interview experience for the listeners. I know I say ‘um’ too much, so I’ll work on that. 😁

Thank you for listening!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Clallam County Underdevelopment

Clallamity Jen — Sat, 06 Dec 2025 13:30:00 GMT

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com

Questioning the Watchdog

Clallamity Jen — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 13:30:00 GMT

For all those missing out on a Clallam County Watchdog podcast today, I offer you my first podcast featuring the Watchdog himself, Jeff Tozzer, in an interview that gets to the bottom of everything:

Is he racist?

Does he hate the tribe?

Does he hate the tribe’s Christmas lights?

Is he manipulating his subscribers?

Is he astroturfing?

Did he demand Jake Seegers run for county commissioner so he can gain more power in Clallam County?

And what everyone really wants to know — what is his favorite color?

I didn’t receive many questions for my interview, and that’s okay; if we set up a second interview, there will be an opportunity to ask more questions.

Here are the two references that I used to formulate my questions that we discuss in the podcast:

* Reddit Thread: What the heck is happening on Clallam County Watchdog?

* Watchdog Article: I’m Not Racist, You’re Not Homophobic

The interview was a great experience for all of us, including my husband, The Strait Shooter, who was in attendance:

For anyone concerned that there is a growing movement afoot to take over Clallam County that is headed by the Watchdog, a so-called master manipulator and puppet master, I can’t say that there is…or that there isn’t.

However, The Strait Shooter has the inside scoop on what went down and will dish it out in today’s edition along with other ‘news’ from around the county.

Many thanks to the Watchdog for inviting us into his Airbnb to record the podcast! I hope others enjoy it as much as we enjoyed the process!

Thank you for reading, listening, laughing & sharing!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clallamityjen.substack.com