The Coast Guard, after a weekend of safeguarding citizens on the water, has graciously assisted Chiara D'Angelo off the anchor chain of Shell's Arctic Challenger and released her without laying charges.

According to the Defense Video & Image Distribution Sytem,

"“It was cold, rainy and she was starting to display signs of hypothermia,” said Chief Warrant Officer Charles Chavtur, commanding officer of Station Bellingham. “Boatcrew members were able to safely assist her down from the chain and gave her blankets and water. We brought her back to the station where she was evaluated by EMS and released to her family and friends.”"

"The Coast Guard respects the First Amendment Rights of people to safely and lawfully assemble on the water and is committed to enforcing the laws and regulations necessary to ensure the safety of the maritime public."

With the federal agency declining to prosecute, the ball is passed to the Port of Bellingham, a local agency that relies on the City of Bellingham's law enforcement and judicial system.

In the last case of "lock-down" protests over public resources at "Pit Park," the city viciously prosecuted protesters, driving many out of town.  They spared no expense to make the point that such expression was not welcome.

That was a different time, a different mayor and a couple police chiefs back. 

Sometimes difficult issues can be hard to express and harder to hear.  That's when those willing to shout into the wind are most valuable to society.  It's time for the city to declare if they will recognize divergent views and stand on our country's founding principles of freedom of expression.

We shall see.