Your Monthly Bill – July 2010

A Tour Not to Be Forgotten: The Tybee Sewage Treatment Facility

By Bill Gillespie

by Bill Gillespie

Do you know where our waste goes when we flush our toilets? Do you know how it is treated and disposed of safely? I do now — thanks to George Reese and Gary Campbell from the City of Tybee’s Sewage Treatment Facility, on Polk Street, North Beach. They were great hosts and tour guides, and I found the visit extremely informative and interesting.

Are you wondering why am I writing about this? Well, I wanted to tell the citizenry about the great progress that has been made by the City through treatment facility improvements and upgrades, but more importantly, to assure folks that recent and past North Beach closures are not tied to human fecal coliforms from the City’s waste treatment facility.

The Tybee Sewage Treatment Facility goes through rigorous state compliance inspections, and has the necessary credentialed and certified operators.

The Tybee Facility is well maintained, modern, and includes updated monitoring software and brand new odor containment measures. The bad smell sometimes observed over the past year has been almost eliminated. A new smell containment housing removes sulfur-containing compounds, as well as the inorganic gas, hydrogen sulfide, which cause the nasty smells. The neighbors are most appreciative of the new addition. The objective of the sewage treatment facility is to collect our waste and produce a disposable effluent without causing trouble or harm to the natural or human environment. Sounds simple, but it isn’t.

Our waste is pumped to the Polk Street facility where it is treated and processed. Solid waste is broken down naturally by aeration, filtration, settling, and bacteria. Visually, the river of churning waste, waterfalls and settling ponds are a little like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate River, but not. After several cycles, the water is filtered through ultraviolet (UV) light to kill any remaining harmful bacteria. Bio-solids – called “sludge” are removed from the waste water, oven dried, and then taken to the County Landfill.

Ultraviolet light is used instead of chlorine, iodine, or other chemicals to kill the bacteria and other harmful pathogens. Because no chemicals are used, the treated water has no adverse effect on organisms that later consume it, as may be the case with chemical treatment methods. UV radiation causes damage to the genetic structure of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, making them incapable of reproduction.

The treated water is monitored and quality controlled prior to its final release in to the Savannah River. The State Board of Examiners for the Certification of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators and Laboratory Analysts inspects the facility and personnel. The State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) routinely check the water, normally weekly at a minimum.

No current records link any of the North Beach closures to the Treatment Plant. The City of Tybee is working with DNR and EPD to identity the real beach closure problems, i.e. bird waste (really), failing Savannah River area septic tanks, ship waste release, or other. Tybee obtained a grant for further study and testing, so more information will be forthcoming.

So next time you flush the toilet, think about the wonderful process of waste removal. Be proud of your up-to-date treatment facility, and the fact that you probably do not smell it anymore! And finally, think twice before you flush anything other than TP, or waste.

You’ll be doing your community a big favor! The system was not designed for trash, diapers, rags,
prescription medicine, paint and chemicals.

Happy flushes!

Bill

You may contact Bill Gillespie at william.gillespie@us.army.mil

Southeast Coast Oil Exploration and Rigs: Not In My Backyard (NIMBY)

“Your Monthly Bill”

with Bill Gillespie

Southeast Coast Oil Exploration and Rigs: Not In My Backyard (NIMBY)

I remember the campaign war cries from 2008, “Drill Here, Drill Now.”

Perhaps we thought the oil drilling technology had become safer and that the emergency procedures had been refined making the probability of an accident minimal to nil. Many people rightly thought, “Why would we have all these oil rigs off our coasts if they hadn’t figured it all out?”

It appears the industry, to include BP, lacks the capability to deal with accidents miles below our ocean surfaces. Perhaps it is time to rethink our strategy, and perform the proper short-term and long-term assessments based on our needs, wants and values; especially as they impact our coastal economy, the environment, and our way of life. We all want cheaper energy that pollutes less, or not at all, as well as, an industry that helps to employ Americans. So why don’t we explore all options, especially if they are safer and more costly.

Research shows us that the southeast coast’s oil sources would be extremely costly to tap and would make no significant impact upon supply and cost in the US market. Releasing arrangements would provide the states leasing fess and access royalties, during budget shortfalls. Our politicians tend to think in the short-term, so supporting oil exploration for short-term gain will probably happen. However too many issue become loosey- goosey after the oil reserves are used-up and during problems.

Issues like: Who removes the equipment, pipes, and fixes the site areas to their natural condition, and who pays? Usually the tax payer gets stuck with the bills. And what of the “what if” accident! Will the states cap the liability and clean-up damages to entice a big bidder; could on it. Our coast could be forever damaged, and we — at the mercy of the Federal Government for help.

According to a Wall Street Journal online survey taken the week of April 26, more than 65% of the public now oppose offshore drilling. We really need to think about the local and regional impacts. What if South Carolina succeeded in getting and implementing the first oil exploration contract, then while setting up initial wells, they leaked oil down our coastal isles and all over Gray’s Reef. It’s not just a matter of protecting our coastal wetlands and reef; it’s also about preserving the coast’s economy. Georgia’s coast provides billions of dollars in revenue each year from tourism, as well as the region’s thriving shipping, fishing and other related industries. A disaster off our coast like the one unfolding in the Gulf would be crippling for decades.

Why not invest our tax dollars in alternative energy technology that promotes innovative, sustainable ways to use our coastal resources for our communities and future generations, for example. wind, solar, geo-thermal and wave action. There are just as many US and global corporation, as well as small businesses ready to invest in these energy fields. The initial start-up capital is no more than the oil fees; however, the medium (10-15 years) and long range (25-30 year) costs would be significantly cheaper, and with no potential for environmental collapse.

Whatever energy options we choose, we need to avoid significant risks to our treasured resources and future generations. We must insist on thorough and accurate assessments of current conditions and trends, as these reflect the public interest and the region’s future. When information is inadequate to make reliable decisions, we, the public, need to know. We will need consistent, accountable, and fair enforcement of all environmental regulations.

May we choose well, and may BP find a way to stop the leak soon!

Bill

You may contact Bill Gillespie at william.gillespie@us.army.mil

Rediscovering Fort Pulaski National Monument

Every spring, I look forward to buying my annual Fort Pulaski National Monument pass for the great locals’ price of $10. What a deal! Ft. Pulaski is open all year-round. I always appreciate my time in the park and I learn something new every time I go. I am writing this article with hope that others can experience the same pleasures of discovering, or rediscovering Fort Pulaski’s great dog friendly trails, bike paths, open spaces, wildlife, birds, kayaking, the Fort and the history. Every time we go, we do something completely different. All these great things to do, and just a 5 minute drive from Tybee.

The history of the Fort is truly amazing. Prior to the Civil War, brick forts were America’s main defense against overseas enemies. This Fort was quickly seized and held by Confederate troops after the secession of the southern states. This fort would play a crucial role in defending the access to the port of Savannah. However, in one two-day battle on April 10-11, 1862, the new weapons technology proved its superiority to brick forts. The Union forces used newly rifled cannons to compel a surrender by Confederates inside Fort Pulaski, for their commander feared the Fort’s power storage room could be hit, explode, and kill everyone defending. No one ever built a brick fort again after the battle. Guided tours are offered daily, and the interpretive program includes musket firings, expanded living history programs, and cannon demonstrations.

The outdoor enthusiast will really enjoy exploring the nature trails throughout the park. Selected trails include: North Pier, Lighthouse Overlook, Historic Dike System, and McQueens Island Rails to Trails. The North Pier Trail takes you through a scenic wood, passes the remnants of early fort buildings, and ends at the shore Battery Hambright and pier. The Lighthouse Overlook Trail guides visitors along open marsh as well as a coastal vegetated environment offering great views of the Savannah River, and Tybee Island. The short trail also offers the island’s best views of the historic 19th century Cockspur Island Lighthouse. You can even walk out to the Lighthouse at low tide. The Dike System Trail shows the handy work of Lt. Robert E. Lee, who designed the dike system, which allowed for tide control and drainage, and aided the construction of Fort Pulaski. This longer trail circles the Fort, and offers visitors unparalleled views of Cockspur Island and the Savannah River. Lastly, the McQueens Island Rails to Trails located on McQueens Island at the entrance to the park is my favorite. This six-mile trail follows the path of the old Tybee rail line that once connected Savannah to the beaches of Tybee Island. The packed-gravel trail is open to bikers, runners, walkers, and is the only trail where leashed dogs are not allowed.

For nature lovers, the park supports many species of birds and wildlife. While visiting, you may catch a glimpse of one of the many protected species that have been identified at the park. Large populations of both resident and migratory birds are present. The salt marshes and upland areas of Fort Pulaski National Monument support many species of wildlife, including an abundance of White Tail Deer and Raccoons. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of one of the 11 protected species that have been identified at the park. These are: American oystercatcher, bald eagle, gull-billed tern, least tern, loggerhead sea turtle, manatee, peregrine falcon, piping plover, swallow-tailed kite, Wilson’s plover and woodstork.

Don’t forget to plan your trip wisely, and wear comfortable shoes, bring snacks or lunch, plenty of insect repellent and plenty of water, especially in the summer months. Last visit my dog loved the trails and playing on the river’s edge. And what I learned on this visit of a historical nature, I hope never repeats itself – and that was that the spring 1881 storm was 23 feet above sea level totally flooded the Lighthouse!

For Tybee residents, I think the annual pass is a great deal and must have.

Again, I wish you great discoveries and rediscoveries at the Fort!

Bill

You may contact Bill Gillespie at william.gillespie@us.army.mil

For more information, please check-out the Park Service site: http://www.nps.gov/fopu/index.htm.
(3 Photos compliments of Fort Pulaski National Park)

(Photo close-up of Cockspur Lighthouse by Cynthia Kinkel, copyright 2010, The Tybee Times)

Your Monthly Bill

“The Spring Cleaning Ritual

The flowers are blooming, the birds are singing, but our house, yard, and brain still feel like they’re stuck with the winter blues. It is time for the physical and mental act of redemption – “the Spring Cleaning Ritual.” There is just something extra wonderful about spring and springing forward! It is a time to put away the winter wear, clear clutter, get organized, and prepare for summer. It is also a great time for introspection, which includes clearing the mental slate, turning the page of life, starting anew; all based on forgiving, forgetting, reconciling, and establishing new goals and habits.
Spring cleaning is an old tradition that allows us to freshen up our homes and yards, and get a head start on the hectic seasons of spring and summer. Spring cleaning not so long ago, involved a complete top to bottom cleaning of every square inch of a home. To complete the process, families would often spend days and nights removing, cleaning, and replacing everything in the home to create that spring-fresh feeling. Today’s spring cleaning may not be as involved, but there are a few tasks that need to be performed seasonally in your home for the proper organization and maintenance.

Here are a few simple, but critical chores that need to be done this spring:

1. Store your seasonal clothing. Put away your sweaters, coats, and other cold weather and seasonal items in proper storage containers. Ensure that they are clean and stored properly so they are in good shape for next winter.
2. Check the appliances. Clean the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, disposal, washer, dryer, and dryer vent. Service the HVAC system.
3. Clear the clutter This is perfect time to remove clutter, trash and excess. Don’t forge the yard, garage, closet and attics. Decide what should be kept, sold, given away, donated, recycled, or trashed. Make sure to organize your tools and sports equipment.
4. Patios and Outdoor Areas. Clean the exterior of you home, the patio, outdoor furniture and lawn. Do some basic landscaping repairs on the trees, lawn and shrubbery. Inspect your yard areas for required routine maintenance, and pest prevention. For a few — remove unused junk from the lawn, and think about getting rid of the old boat, trailer, or car that you haven’t used in a decade.
5. Cleaning the interior of home. It is time to inspect and clean the window treatments, mattress, bedding, furniture, and carpets. You can the then figure out what needs to be repaired, professionally cleaned, repainted, or replaced.
6. Establish some personal spring and summer goals. Perhaps you can relook at your New Year resolutions, or make a personal improvement “to do” list. I always add some self improvement books, and start some good summer habits. It is always good to keep challenging yourself.

Even though these chores only need to be done once or twice a year, they’ll make your house look and feel better. For me, checklists always help with planning and executing. You’ll have to plan a trip to the store to get the right supplies. Lastly, try getting the entire family involved to establish the tradition. I wish you well and an uncluttered house and mind!

Bill

Contact Bill at william.gillespie@us.army.mil

Your Monthly Bill

Haiti:  Relief, Geography and History
(Sources: US Government CIA Fact Book, API News)

Since the January 12, 2010 — 7.0 magnitude earthquake, the world’s attention has been on Haiti.   It is important that we understand the relief effort and Haiti’s geography and history.   The earthquake devastated the capital city, Port au Prince, and all of the major infrastructure including government, police and fire department buildings, as well as the port, airport, transportation network, water, sewer and electrical grid.  This loss of resources has severely hampered relief efforts.  Most of the damage occurred due to substandard building practices, which lacked reinforcing steel in the concrete.

More than 150,000 people were reported killed, although the exact number is unknown and reports are still fluctuating.  Over 200,000 have been injured.  A large number of up to 2 million are homeless and require help.  Tent camps have been slow to materialize.  Haiti’s government, weak before the calamity, is virtually non-functional.  UN peacekeepers have been in the country for six years providing security, since a bloody rebellion ousted President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.   Do you remember Aristide?  We helped put him in power after a military coup in 1994.  Currently, the UN and a multi-national force led by the US are there helping to assist the victims, citizens and government of Haiti.

Many international, national and local relief efforts and donation collection centers are in place.  If you want to donate money the most trusted relief agencies include the American Red Cross, UNICEF’s Relief Work, The Clinton-Bush Haiti Fund and Feed the Children.  Locally, Tybee’s City Hall has a drop off center in the lobby for emergency supplies such as blankets, medical first-aid items, canned food, sanitation items and clothes. Additionally, many local churches and medical facilities are taking collections, and coordinating volunteer efforts to go to Haiti.  Perhaps you can help in some way?

The Haitian link to America, Savannah and our revolutionary war history is strong. In 1779, over 500 free black volunteers from Haiti, the Chasseurs Volontaires de Saint Dominque joined combined French and American forces attempting to retake Savannah from the British.  After a devastating siege, the Haiti forces covered the combined forces’ withdrawal allowing for an orderly military operation and stopping a British counter-attack.  As a symbol of gratitude, Savannah has a new Haitian Monument in Franklin Square to commemorate that sacrifice and friendship.

Haiti is a country about the size of the state of Maryland. It is the poorest country in the western hemisphere, with the average person surviving on about $2 per day. Two-thirds of all Haitians depend on the agricultural sector, mainly small-scale subsistence farming for income.  Haiti occupies the western third of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola; the Dominican Republic takes up the eastern two-thirds.   A 2009 estimate of the population is 10,033,000; with about one-third of people living around the capital of Port-au-Prince.  Haitian Creole and French are the official languages.  90–95% of Haitians are of predominately African descent; the remaining 5–10% of the population are mostly of mixed-race background.  Haiti is predominantly a Christian country, with Roman Catholicism practiced by 80%, and Protestants practiced by 16% of the population.   Haitian Voodoo, a unique new world and African mixed religion is practiced by roughly half the population. Millions of Haitians live abroad, chiefly in North America: the Dominican Republic (800,000), United States (600,000), and Canada (100,000).

Haiti is also a very mountainous country with more than 3/4ths of the territory being 600 feet and above. Its climate is both tropical and semiarid.  Fertile valleys are interspersed between the mountain ranges forming vast areas of contrast between elevations in many areas throughout the territory. The country is separated from Cuba by way of the Windward Passage of the Caribbean Sea, which is only 50 miles wide.  Haiti’s lowest elevation is at sea level, while its highest point is the Mountain Pic La Selle at 8,793 ft.  There are two rainy seasons, April–June and October–November. Haiti is subject to periodic droughts and floods, made more severe by deforestation.  Hurricanes are also a severe reoccurring menace.  Let’s hope this spring hurricane season will spare the island nation.

Haiti’s history is fascinating and diverse. Christopher Columbus landed at Môle Saint-Nicolas on Dec. 5th, 1492, and claimed the island for Spain.  Haitian politics have been contentious ever since. Most Haitians are aware of their history as the only country in the Western Hemisphere to undergo a successful slave rebellion, revolution, and gain independence from France, in 1804.  Inspired by the French Revolution, Haitian Toussaint l’Ouverture, a former slave and leader in the slave revolt, rose as a military leader, and later commanded the Haitian war effort.   Through leadership and skill he achieved independence after years of war against both external invaders and internal dissension.  In a last ditch effort, Napoleon Bonaparte sent an expedition of 20,000 men under the command of his brother-in-law, General Charles Leclerc, to retake the island. Leclerc’s mission was to oust l’Ouverture and restore slavery. The French achieved some victories, but within a few months, yellow fever had killed most of the French soldiers (estimates are around 50,000), including 18 generals.

Haiti has a long history of oppression by dictators including François Duvalier and his son Jean-Claude Duvalier; they both markedly affected the nation.  France and the United States have repeatedly intervened in Haitian politics since the country’s founding, sometimes at the request of one party or another. In January 1914, British, German and United States forces entered Haiti, ostensibly to protect their citizens from civil unrest. The U.S. passed the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine, which allowed for a US military presence and occupation.  The United States occupied the island in 1915 and units were stationed in the country until 1934.  Operation Uphold Democracy (September 19, 1994 – March 31, 1995) was another US military assistance response to the overthrow and expulsion of the duly elected Haitian government of Jean Bertrand Aristide from a military coup led by Lieutenant General Raoul Cédras.  Cedras was Haiti’s de facto ruler of 1991 to 1994.

This earthquake tragedy could have happened in many neighboring countries.   It is important that we know something about our southern neighbor.  We are going to be there a long time providing security and nation building assistance.  It is in our best interest.  A large outflow of Haitian refugees would be devastating and destabilizing to the region.  We have proved time and time again that we are a compassionate and giving nation.  Perhaps there is something you can do?

Contact Bill at william.gillespie@us.army.mil

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