https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=E0A25759-4B4B-4CA4-A977-47D108588592
Bill also rejects attempt to privatize portions of BPA or insert Congress into an ongoing judicial process affecting Columbia River System Operations
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that Congress has come together to reject President Trump’s proposed cuts to a number of Washington state priorities, including scientific research at the Pacific Northwest National Lab and nuclear waste cleanup at Hanford. Additionally, the legislation includes solid investments in military construction and veterans programs, including $865 million for VA’s Caregiver Support Program, something Senator Murray has long championed and recently fought to successfully expand to include veterans of all eras. The bipartisan spending deal, the first package in a series of spending bills for Fiscal Year 2019, passed the Senate 92-5 and now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives for final passage, and then to the president’s desk.
“Once again, we were able to work across the aisle to reject misguided efforts to strip critically important investments from communities in Washington state,” Senator Murray said. “This is so important because the federal government has an obligation to the families, veterans, and workers in our state, which is why I will never back down fighting for our priorities whether it’s cleaning up Hanford, making sure the Army Corps has the resources it needs to carry out important projects, or providing services to the hundreds of thousands of veterans and their families who call Washington state home.”
Additionally, Senator Murray praised the spending package for preventing President Trump’s proposal to privatize portions of Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), and for keeping politics out of Columbia River system operations by rejecting attempts to interfere with the ongoing court-mandated comprehensive review.
Senator Murray’s Statement on the Anniversary of 9/11
Press release issued 9/ 11/ 18https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=BBD9BB58-185D-4EC7-8F9B-23EF8DCCA1C2
(Washington, D.C.) – As the nation prepares to commemorate the anniversary of the attacks on September 11, 2001, today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement:
“On this day, we pause to not only remember the lives of our fellow Americans lost to tragedy seventeen years ago, but also to honor the enduring legacy of the countless people, including the many brave first-responders, whose impact providing aid and comfort in the minutes, hours, days, and weeks after that horrific attack will never be forgotten. At one of our nation’s darkest hours we saw the best of who we are, with people from all walks of life joining together to do whatever was needed to help neighbors thousands of miles away in distress. It is that sense of country and shared pride – that no matter the challenge, we’re all in this together – that allowed us to move past that awful day, and fuels our hope that by working together, our nation’s future can be better than our past. As our country continues to grow and heal, may we never forget the lessons of compassion and community we took from that fateful day, and what the strength of the American spirit can achieve when we stand united.”
🌏WORLD NEWS HEADLINES
From the UN News Center & other sources
Principles, Objectives of Benefit-Sharing among Issues Discussed in Conference to Draft Marine Biological Diversity Treaty
The intergovernmental conference tasked with drafting a legally binding treaty under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea governing maritime diversity in ocean waters beyond national jurisdiction entered its seventh day, with speakers discussing matters related to marine genetic resources, including questions on the sharing of benefits.
UN Press release issued 9/ 12/ 18
https://www.un.org/press/en/2018/sea2083.doc.htm
Blockades ‘expose’ the innocent, to the ‘ravages of economic war’ - UN sanctions expert warns
Economic sanctions must not be allowed to degenerate into blockades which “expose people to the ravages of economic war in peacetime” said the UN independent expert on the effects of sanctions on human rights.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/09/1019192
Cancer is a growing global threat and prevention is key, UN study shows
More than 18 million new cases of cancer are expected this year and it’s estimated that 9.6 million people will die from various forms of the disease in 2018, the UN’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) said on Wednesday.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/09/1019102
‘Collective endeavour’ needed to strengthen peacekeeping further, says top UN official
Highlighting complex and evolving challenges, the head of UN peacekeeping on Wednesday called for heightened vigilance and a more robust response to existential threats against both peacekeepers and those they strive to defend.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/09/1019112
Artificial Intelligence: a danger to mankind, or the key to a better world?
Siri, Alexa and Cortana are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Artificial Intelligence (or A.I.), which is playing an increasingly pervasive role in our lives.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/09/1019152
PAGE 2
Effort follows Senate resolution introduced by Senators Murray and Cantwell to maintain current national standards
Press release issued 9/ 11/ 18https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=2D1F4D6C-62D0-4439-BE01-6505B5D946BD
Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined 30 Senate colleagues in a letter urging the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to extend the public comment period for the Trump Administration’s proposed rollback of the federal fuel economy and greenhouse gas emission standards. The administration’s proposal would roll back the current standards and would rescind the ability of Washington and other states to implement more stringent standards under the Clean Air Act.
“The currently allotted 60 day window for the comment period does not afford the public adequate opportunity to weigh in on the proposal,” said the senators. “To allow for increased public participation, we request that you lengthen the public comment period from 60 days to 120 days, providing all Americans with sufficient time to understand and comment on the proposed rule.”
The senators continued, “It is critical that all Americans have the opportunity to comment on a proposal of this magnitude. The proposed rule would not only impact the fuel efficiency of passenger vehicles, but it would also harm human health, increase consumer expenses, hurt the auto industry workforce, and stifle technological innovation.”
Senator Murray, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has fought to strengthen vehicle fuel economy standards and has vocally opposed previous efforts from the Trump Administration to undermine states’ ability to improve upon the federal standards. Senator Cantwell, the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, has also fought to increase fuel economy standards, including chairing a key Senate Commerce Committee hearing on the issue in 2006 and helping pass legislation ultimately included in the bipartisan 2007 Energy Bill that included new fuel economy standards. Last month, Senators Murray and Cantwell introduced a resolution to protect current national fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions standards in response to the Trump Administration’s unilateral decision to roll back these standards, despite a broad coalition of support from business, labor, consumer, and environmental groups.
Senator Cantwell’s Bipartisan Legislation Giving Tribal Leaders Equal Access to Social Security Passes Senate, Heads to President’s Desk
Press release issued 9/ 7/ 18
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-cantwells-bipartisan-legislation-giving-tribal-leaders-equal-access-to-social-security-passes-senate-heads-to-presidents-desk
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and John Thune (R-SD) to correct a long-standing inequity in the Social Security Act that prevents elected tribal leaders from contributing to and accessing Social Security benefits passed the U.S. Senate and will head to the President’s desk to be signed into law.
The Tribal Social Security Fairness Act would allow tribal governments to “opt-in” to Social Security, pay the related taxes, and receive the retirement program’s benefits.
Tribal populations face significant disadvantages in preparing for retirement. On average, tribal communities earn lower wages and face higher rates of disability than other populations, which limits the future income they can count on from retirement plans.
“Tribal council members in Washington state and throughout the country have dedicated their lives to service and improving their communities,” Senator Cantwell said. “They deserve the same access to Social Security that all other Americans have. I thank my colleagues for working with me to fix this injustice, and I will continue working to achieve retirement security for everyone in Indian Country.”
🌎MORE WORLD NEWS HEADLINES:
Former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan laid to rest in Ghana; Guterres hails ‘exceptional global leader’
Like few today, former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, could “bring people together, put them at ease, and unite them towards a common goal”, said the current UN chief, António Guterres on Thursday, speaking at his predecessor’s funeral in Ghana.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/09/1019202
Scourge of genocide remains a ‘threat and a reality’ today: UN human rights chief
Genocide remains a “threat and a reality” in the 21st century, UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet said on Thursday, in an appeal to States to do more to act on the “warning signs” that often precede grave violations of international law.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/09/1019212
From the US Mission to the UN:
Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM)---press release 9/ 12/ 18
" Somalia finds itself in a defining moment. For the first time in over two decades, Somalia has the real opportunity to move toward protecting itself and securing its own country. This opportunity has not been without a price. The progress towards peace and stability we have seen over the last 10 years is due in large part to the sacrifices of troop contributing countries of the African Union, as well as the contributions made by the international partners and donors. The United States honors and appreciates the sacrifices and investments from these countries. We especially pay tribute to the soldiers and family members of those killed and injured while operating in Somalia."
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8608
Ambassador Haley on the UN Human Rights High Commissioner’s Inaugural Statement to the Human Rights Council
Press release issued 9/ 12/ 18
On September 10, newly appointed UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet gave her inaugural statement to the current session of the Human Rights Council. The United States withdrew from the Council in June, as a result of its outrageous bias and politicization. In her full statement, High Commissioner Bachelet continued the failures of the past, further validating the U.S. decision to withdraw, when she criticized both Israel and the United States while ignoring some of the worst human rights violators in the world.
“With serious human rights crises across the globe, it is highly regrettable that the new High Commissioner is following the same biased path of her predecessors, choosing to bash Israel and the United States. By not even mentioning Hamas – the source of violence and unrest in Gaza – her comments hurt chances for peace, rather than help them. By attacking the United States on migration issues, the High Commissioner fails to recognize that it is the human rights problems in parts of Latin America that drive many migrants toward the freedoms that are found in the United States. High Commissioner Bachelet would do better to encourage the Human Rights Council to focus on countries with reprehensible human rights records, several of whom sit on the Council itself,” said Ambassador Haley.
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8606
Remarks at the Presentation of the 2017 Annual Report of the Security Council to the UN General Assembly
Press release issued 9/ 12/ 18
" The Charter of the United Nations entrusts the Security Council with the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. With the support of United Nations members, the Security Council has endeavored to discharge its responsibilities in accordance with the Charter to support peacekeeping efforts and urge peaceful resolution of conflicts around the world."
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8605
PAGE 3
Kilmer’s Hate Crimes Bill Headed to President’s Desk
Kilmer-drafted legislation in response to Mercer Island bomb threat passes House unanimously in final vote, heads to President’s desk to be signed into law.
WASHINGTON, DC—A bill co-written by Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) to protect religious community centers against hate crimes is headed to the president’s desk to be signed into law. Today, the House of Representatives passed the final version of The Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act. Kilmer (D-WA) co-wrote the bill after a string of bomb threats were made nationwide against religious institutions, including one at the Stroum Jewish Community Center in Mercer Island, Washington last year.---shared news story from Congressman Kilmer's webpage.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmers-hate-crimes-bill-headed-to-presidents-desk
Senator Murray Praises Bipartisan Deal to Tackle the Opioids Crisis in Washington State, Nationwide
longtime champion for efforts to curb addiction, Senator Murray has traveled extensively throughout WA for best practices to end opioid misuse, shared several stories from WA patients & others that helped inform legislation
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ID=3EA3E8E1-4525-41E4-898A-2A3E495A3453
Senator Murray: Deal Keeps Politics Out of Columbia River System Operations
“The future of the Columbia River is critically important to the Pacific Northwest economy and to our way of life, which is why I have long insisted that we keep politics and partisanship out of this and allow the ongoing legal process to play out. I am glad this deal does exactly that. Nothing in this report, and nothing in the bill itself, would insert Congress or partisan politics into the process or would interfere with the court-mandated comprehensive review that everyone can participate in and accounts for all uses of our river system.
“Throughout this process, it has been and will continue to be important that we make sure scientific questions remain in the hands of scientists and not politicians. I continue to stand ready to work with any Republicans who are willing to work with me to forge consensus around these important Pacific Northwest issues and not just politicize the process, facts, and science.”
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ID=3E5C5A94-71F2-4E0E-93C9-4239774E9DA0
🗽NATIONAL NEWS HEADLINES:
WHITE HOUSE FACT SHEET: President Donald J. Trump’s Administration Is Preparing Critical Resources and Personnel to Support Hurricane Response Efforts
ENSURING FEDERAL READINESS: The Trump Administration has taken extensive steps to ensure the Federal Government is prepared for Hurricane Florence and other storms.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/president-donald-j-trumps-administration-preparing-critical-resources-personnel-support-hurricane-response-efforts/
US STATE DEPT: Russia-Backed Sham Elections in Ukraine
Spokesperson Nauert (Sept. 12): “The U.S. condemns the announcement of a plan to conduct 'elections' in the so-called 'Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics.' Given the continued control of these territories by the Russian Federation, genuine elections are inconceivable, and grossly contravene Russia’s commitments under the Minsk agreements.”
https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2018/09/285884.htm
DOD: Phase 3 of Operation Roundup Starts in Syria
The ground offensive, supported by coalition cross-border air and artillery strikes, will clear remnants of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria from northeastern Syria along the Middle Euphrates River Valley toward the Syria-Iraq border.
https://dod.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1626731/phase-3-of-operation-roundup-starts-in-syria/
DOJ: Detroit-Area Podiatrist Sentenced to Prison for Health Care Fraud
A Detroit-area podiatrist was sentenced to 28 months in prison today for his participation in a $1 million scheme involving podiatry services that were billed to Medicare but were never rendered.
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/detroit-area-podiatrist-sentenced-prison-health-care-fraud
DOJ: Romanian National Pleads Guilty in Multi-State ATM Card Skimming Scheme
Caused over $868,000 in Losses from over 530 Individual Accounts in Three States
A Romanian man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Springfield, Massachusetts to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft in connection with a multi-state card skimming scheme.
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/romanian-national-pleads-guilty-multi-state-atm-card-skimming-scheme
PAGE 4
TRANSPORTATION: After Pressing Secretary Chao on Washington State Infrastructure Priorities, Senator Murray Cheers Major New Investment in Lynnwood Link Extension
Press release issued 9/ 7/ 18Following continued pressure from Senator Murray, the Federal Transit Administration formally allocated $100 Million additional funding for critical Lynnwood Link light rail extension project
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ID=8A09300D-E097-4B3C-BE16-A4030663D3D0
(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today applauded significant additional investments to support the Lynnwood Link light rail extension, following months of pressure on the Trump Administration to honor Congress’ intent and allocate federal funding for the project. The $100 million was formally allocated through the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grant program (CIG). Senator Murray successfully worked to include $100 million in funding for the Lynnwood Link project in a previous spending bill, and earlier this year helped lead efforts to strengthen investments in the CIG program, allocating $2.6 billion to the program in the fiscal year 2018 budget. With today’s announcement, $200 million in total has been allocated to the project through the CIG program.
“After urging President Trump’s Department of Transportation for months to honor Congress’ intent to strengthen investments in transportation projects like the Lynnwood Link, I’m very pleased to see Secretary Chao and the Federal Transit Administration follow through on their commitment and release these funds to support this critical project for local families, workers, and businesses,” said Senator Murray. “From providing reliable transportation for commuters and consumers, to supporting efforts to address traffic congestion and more, it would be hard to overstate the value of expanding light rail to even more Puget Sound communities. As a voice for Washington state, I will keep pushing in the Senate to do all I can to help see this important project through to completion, and I look forward to continuing to work with Secretary Chao and her Department to secure continued investments in Lynnwood Link and other critical Washington state transportation priorities. While there’s still more work to do, this is a major step in the right direction.”
A strong advocate for federal investments in transportation and infrastructure, Senator Murray has long fought to strengthen the CIG program and has helped successfully pass two consecutive spending bills that have rejected President Trump’s attempts to slash its funding. Additionally, Senator Murray has repeatedly pressed senior officials at the Department of Transportation on funding for the Lynnwood Link project, including pushing Secretary Chao during a Senate hearing in April to move forward with additional CIG awards with federal investments already provided by Congress to help support public transportation projects in Washington state like the Lynnwood Link extension.
🗽MORE NATIONAL HEADLINES:
Interior Law Enforcement Seizes 17 lbs. of Heroin and Methamphetamine on San Felipe Pueblo Indian Reservation in New Mexico
Seizure Continues the Trump Administration’s priority to end the opioid crisis and stop drugs pouring over the border.
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/interior-law-enforcement-seizes-17-lbs-heroin-and-methamphetamine-san-felipe-pueblo
Interior Releases Finding of No Significant Impact for Central North Dakota Water Supply Project
WASHINGTON – The Bureau of Reclamation has completed the environmental assessment (EA) and released the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the Central North Dakota Water Supply Project.
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/interior-releases-finding-no-significant-impact-central-north-dakota-water-supply
White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities Announces 2018 HBCU Competitiveness Scholars
Washington – The White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities announced today the names of 63 students from 54 HBCUs who have been selected as 2018 HBCU Competitiveness Scholars – the Initiative's highest student recognition.
https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/white-house-initiative-historically-black-colleges-and-universities-announces-2018-hbcu-competitiveness-scholars
HUD CHARGES FLORIDA COMPANY, COUPLE
WITH DISCRIMINATING AGAINST HISPANIC HOMEOWNERS
Florida law firm accused of targeting Hispanic families in predatory mortgage modification scheme.
WASHINGTON – The radio and television commercials seemed too good to be true; promising Hispanic homeowners to cut their mortgage payments in half, even offering $500 gift cards to entice them to sign up for loan modification assistance. But it was too good to be true, and today the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is charging a Florida company and its owners with housing discrimination for intentionally targeting Hispanic homeowners in a predatory mortgage modification scheme that increased, rather than decreased, their risk of foreclosure. Read HUD’s charge.
https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_18_101
The CDC Final Investigation Update on Salmonella Infections in Live Poultry.
The CDC final investigation update of a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to contact with live poultry in backyard flocks has been posted.
https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2018/s0913-salmonella-update.html
PAGE 5 💸💸💸💸💸💸💸 BUSINESS & FINANCE 💵💵💵💵💵💵
USDA BLOG (posted 9/ 7/ 18) Projecting Lumber Demand in the U.S. and Abroad
https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2018/09/07/projecting-lumber-demand-us-and-abroad
“Lumber and economic growth are tightly connected,” says USDA Forest Service scientist Jeffrey Prestemon. “At a certain rate of GDP growth, you get a certain path of lumber consumption.”
Prestemon recently led a study that projects softwood lumber demand under different economic growth scenarios represented by real gross domestic product.
Housing demand is a key factor. A third of all U.S. lumber is used to build new homes or apartment buildings. Prestemon’s model uses three variables to predict the number of housing starts: the rate of economic growth, the number of houses built in the past, and mortgage delinquency rates. Mortgage delinquencies spike during recessions but otherwise occur at fairly stable rates. According to the study, those three variables can predict 90 percent of the quarter-to-quarter variation in the national total number of housing starts.
The scientists tested several future economic growth scenarios represented by real GDP through the year 2070. For the past 15 years, GDP has grown by an average of 2.4 percent each year. In the future, if real GDP grows by two percent, the model suggests 1.1 million new homes will be started. In that scenario, lumber demand would stay roughly the same as today, neither increasing nor decreasing substantially.
If GDP grows faster than 2 percent, lumber demand will increase. But if GDP grows more slowly than 2 percent, demand for lumber will likely fall. People would be more likely to repair old houses, use less new wood, and become more efficient in how much wood they use in new houses.
Since 1950 the inflation-adjusted rate of economic growth in the U.S. has slowed by an average of 0.04 to 0.05 percent of GDP each year. The U.S. population is also growing more slowly, down from 1.8% per year in the 1950s to less than 0.9% per year in the last ten years.
The U.S. housing sector is a key driver of demand for wood products, and it’s also important for the broader economy. “We didn’t set out to model a shrinking population,” said Prestemon. “We modeled forest sectors under different economic scenarios. One of those was low economic growth, which could be caused by low population growth.”
💸MORE BUSINESS & FINANCE NEWS
USDA BLOG: The World Equestrian Games Come to North Carolina – How APHIS Is Protecting U.S. Horse Health During the Games
Everyone knows about the Olympics, but did you know that there’s an Olympics-of-sort just for equestrian sports? Every four years, the world’s best competitors in a variety of equine sport disciplines get together for a spectacular event that awards 30 gold medals over the course of 13 days. Beginning in mid-September, the World Equestrian Games will take place in Mill Spring, North Carolina at the Tryon International Equestrian Center. Officials estimate half a million spectators will attend this year’s competition.
https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2018/09/12/world-equestrian-games-come-north-carolina-how-aphis-protecting-us-horse
Seven Ways Your Chamber Can Prepare for Hurricane Florence.
If you’re a chamber of commerce located in the southeast United States, there’s still time to prepare your community ahead of Hurricane Florence’s landfall this week. Below are seven steps you can take to prepare your organization, your members, and your community ahead of Hurricane Florence’s landfall.
https://www.uschamber.com/series/above-the-fold/seven-ways-your-chamber-can-prepare-hurricane-florence
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AWARDS DISASTER RECOVERY FUNDS FOLLOWING SEVERE STORMS IN EASTERN PANHANDLE OF WEST VIRGINIA
WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced funding of a $975,000 Disaster Recovery National Dislocated Worker Grant (DWG) awarded to Workforce West Virginia to assess workforce needs in response to storms that brought heavy rainfall and flooding throughout seven counties. The funding will assist the following seven counties declared eligible for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Public Assistance Program: Grant, Hampshire, Hardy, Jefferson, Mineral, Morgan, and Pendleton.
https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/eta/eta20180912-1
Hockey Puck Seller, Companies Selling Recreational and Outdoor Equipment Agree To Stop Making False ‘Made in USA’ Claims in Separate Actions
In two Federal Trade Commission cases, companies selling hockey pucks and companies selling recreational and outdoor equipment agreed to stop making false “Made in USA” claims. Four related Farmingdale, New York-based companies doing business as Patriot Puck, and their officer, have agreed to stop making false claims that the hockey pucks they sell are all, or virtually all, made in the United States. Also, two commonly controlled California companies that sell recreational and outdoor equipment have agreed to stop making false, misleading, and unsupported “Made in USA” claims about their products.
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2018/09/hockey-puck-seller-companies-selling-recreational-outdoor
Tax Security 101: Security Summit outlines data theft reporting process for tax professionals; speed helps protect taxpayers
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service and its Security Summit partners today reminded tax professionals that they should report data theft immediately and follow an established process for helping the IRS protect their clients.
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-security-101-security-summit-outlines-data-theft-reporting-process-for-tax-professionals-speed-helps-protect-taxpayers
PAGE 6
Inslee appoints Edirin Okoloko to Snohomish County Superior Court
Press release issued 9/ 11/ 18
https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-appoints-edirin-okoloko-snohomish-county-superior-court
Gov. Jay Inslee today appointed Edirin Okoloko to Snohomish County Superior Court. He will replace Judge George Bowden, who is retiring.
Okoloko has worked for the past 13 years in the Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, where he is a deputy prosecuting attorney working on homicide, sexual assault, child abuse and elder abuse cases. He has also worked in the office's violent crime, property crime and District Court units, and he represents the office on the Snohomish County Multiple Agency Response Team, which investigates incidents of suspected excessive force by police officers.
Okoloko has successfully prosecuted four murder trials and has been recognized by his office for completing a high volume of jury trials. Before working as a prosecutor, Okoloko served as a judicial law clerk for former Snohomish County Superior Court Judge Michael Downes.
"Edirin has a clear dedication to the legal profession and a successful history of bringing justice to some of our state's most vulnerable crime victims," Inslee said. "He will be an excellent addition to the bench in Snohomish County."
Born in Nigeria, Okoloko received his law degree from the Seattle University School of Law and a Bachelor of Law from the University of Benin in Nigeria.
He will begin his new role in October.
In other state related news:
‘Lost soul’ finds new purpose through Corrections’ braille program
Braille transcription program meets demand for braille literature throughout the state, helps incarcerated women gain job experience
VANCOUVER, Wash. — When Angela Vargas went to prison 15 years ago for theft and murder conspiracy charges, she never thought her time behind bars would lead to the job of her dreams.
https://medium.com/wagovernor/lost-soul-finds-new-purpose-through-corrections-braille-program-fe69ace46778
AG FERGUSON SECURES END TO NO-POACH PROVISIONS AT EIGHT MORE RESTAURANT CHAINS NATIONWIDE
SEATTLE — Attorney General Bob Ferguson today announced that eight additional corporate, fast-food chains will end no-poach practices nationwide, joining 15 others. The 23 account for more than 67,000 locations nationwide and employ millions of workers. The companies will remove all no-poach clauses, which put downward pressure on wages and restrict worker mobility, from all current and future franchise contracts.
https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-secures-end-no-poach-provisions-eight-more-restaurant-chains
JUDGE RULES TRUMP ADMINISTRATION UNLAWFULLY BLOCKED STUDENT BORROWER PROTECTIONS.
OLYMPIA — Following another legal victory against the Trump Administration, Attorney General Bob Ferguson issued the following statement today after a federal judge in Washington, D.C., ruled the federal Department of Education improperly delayed the implementation of Obama-era rules that protect student loan borrowers from predatory and deceptive practices by higher education institutions:
https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/judge-rules-trump-administration-unlawfully-blocked-student-borrower-protections
AG FERGUSON FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST TOWING COMPANY FOR ILLEGALLY SELLING A SERVICE MEMBER’S CAR
OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson today filed a lawsuit against a Tacoma-based towing company for illegally auctioning off a military service member’s vehicle while he was deployed at sea.
https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-files-lawsuit-against-towing-company-illegally-selling-service-member
Tourism Marketing Authority holds initial meeting
Officers and committees named, decision to sole source statewide marketing campaign
Created to oversee a new statewide marketing campaign for tourism, the Washington State Tourism Marketing Authority (TMA) held its first official meeting at Sea-Tac International Airport Aug. 30.
https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/tourism-marketing-authority-holds-initial-meeting/
PAGE 7
Kilmer Statement on Passage of the Energy and Water Development, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill.
WASHINGTON, DC—Today the House of Representatives passed the FY2019 Energy and Water Development, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill. Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA), the Vice Ranking Member of the House Committee on Appropriations said:
“This bipartisan agreement is a great step forward that makes smart investments in our region,” Kilmer said. “These funds will be used to treat veterans in need of medical care or grappling with addiction and will strengthen infrastructure at VA facilities to improve the quality of care. The agreement also ensures that important investments will move forward to protect Puget Sound and help our nation grow clean energy jobs.”
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-passage-of-the-energy-and-water-development-military-construction-and-veterans-affairs-and-legislative-branch-appropriations-bill
Senators Murray, Cantwell Introduce Bill to Address Retirement Gap, Bolster Women’s Financial Security.
(Washington, D.C.) – Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee), joined by Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA), introduced legislation to address some of the challenges families face as they plan for retirement—especially women who are more likely than men to face poverty in retirement.
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=63E32E23-8400-44E9-8F4F-2E4B8E3F5A7B
Cantwell Urges Administration To Prioritize American Consumers When Pursuing LNG Export Policy
Washington, D.C. – Today, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) discussed the role of U.S. liquefied natural gas in meeting European energy demand.
“The prospects of increased U.S. LNG exports and growing global LNG markets can create opportunities for countries to look to diversify their natural gas supply,” said Senator Cantwell. “While it is good to discuss ways to help our allies I hope we would not lose focus on protecting U.S. consumers.”
“When the Department of Energy makes their public interest determination, they should prioritize domestic consumption before exports and should ensure there are proper environmental mitigation measures in place when considering any benefits of using natural gas,” said Senator Cantwell.
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-urges-administration-to-prioritize-american-consumers-when-pursuing-lng-export-policy
More State news headlines...
Interbay Public Advisory Committee to study possible reuse of Seattle facility
OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington Department of Commerce Interbay Public Development Advisory Committee will hold its first meeting Sept.18 to study possible reuses for the current site of the Washington National Guard Armory in Seattle.
https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/interbay-public-advisory-committee-to-study-possible-reuse-of-seattle-facility/
Commerce grants $3 million from Clean Energy Fund to Nonprofit Lenders.
Craft3, Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union and Washington State Housing Finance Commission revolving loan funds encourage home renewable energy and heating projects; commercial and industrial energy efficiency retrofits, clean tech manufacturing, electric vehicles.
https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/commerce-grants-3-million-from-clean-energy-fund-to-nonprofit-lenders/
Tidewater Barge Lines settles penalty over liquid fertilizer spill to Columbia and Snake rivers
VANCOUVER – Tidewater Barge Lines has agreed to pay a reduced fine and undertake a conservation project to settle violations for spilling nearly 40,000 gallons of urea ammonium nitrate (UAN) liquid fertilizer into the Snake and Columbia rivers in April 2017.
https://ecology.wa.gov/About-us/Get-to-know-us/News/2018/Tidewater-Barge-Lines-settlement
Learn tips to beautify brownfields at 9/18 Yakima Workshop
Join Ecology and other experts as we dive deep into best practices and the latest trends in brownfield redevelopment, and provide you with tools and insights to advance your land reuse projects.
https://ecologywa.blogspot.com/2018/09/learn-tips-to-beautify-brownfields-at.html
Ecology launches review of proposed smelter near Newport
Public input needed to shape environmental study
NEWPORT – The Washington Department of Ecology will conduct an environmental review for a proposed silicon smelter in Pend Oreille County.
https://ecology.wa.gov/About-us/Get-to-know-us/News/2018/Sept-11-Ecology-starts-review-of-PacWest-project
🎤LOCAL MEETINGS AND AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS
CLALLAM COUNTY PRESS RELEASE
Clallam County Administrator
Clallam County Commissioners are pleased to announce that we have made a conditional offer of employment as County Administrator to J. David Fraser. All three finalists were very strong candidates and each would have brought something different to the organization, but ultimately there was agreement between all three interview panels (public, county leadership and Commissioners) that Mr. Fraser would be the best choice based on his broad and deep experience and education as well as his philosophy of leadership.
The Commissioners would like to thank the members of the public, elected officials and county employees who took time to participate in the process, ask questions and provide input. Additional questions should be directed to Rich Sill, Director of Human Resources, as we move through the next phases of reaching an employment agreement with Mr. Fraser.
http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/ci20180907173606.pdf
Clallam County Commission meetings
Work session for 9/ 17/ 18
http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1124
Agenda Highlight: Stormwater permitting strategy discussion
Regular Session for 9/ 18/ 18
http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=393
Agenda highlight: *EXECUTIVE SESSION - 8:30 a.m. - Tuesday, September 18
The Human Resources Department requests an Executive Session with the BOCC from 8:30 am - 9:15 am to discuss collective bargaining opportunities as we prepare to go into contract negotiations with the Clallam County Prosecutors’ Association.
RCW 42.30.140 (4)(a) - Collective bargaining sessions with employee organizations, including contract negotiations, grievance meetings, and discussions relating to the interpretation or application of a labor agreement; or (b) that portion of a meeting during which the governing body is planning or adopting the strategy or position to be taken by the governing body during the course of any collective bargaining, professional negotiations, or grievance or mediation proceedings, or reviewing the proposals made in the negotiations or proceedings while in progress.
The Board may recess into Executive Session to consider employment or dismissal of personnel, to review the performance of a public employee, to consult with legal counsel, to consider the position to be taken in collective bargaining, to consider acquisition or sale of real estate, or other matters per RCW 42.30.110
Executive Session - 8:30 a.m Paperclip icon
*EXECUTIVE SESSION - 9:15 a.m. - Tuesday, September 18
The Human Resources Department has called for an Executive Session with the Board of County Commissioners for the purpose of evaluating the qualifications of an applicant for public employment, namely David Fraser who has been offered a conditional offer of employment as County Administrator.
This Executive Session is appropriate as outlined in RCW 42.30.110 (1)(g). There will be no discussion of salaries, wages or other conditions of employment; furthermore, in accordance with RCW 42.30.140(4) any such discussion would take place in a meeting open to the public.
The anticipated duration of this Executive Session will be 30 minutes. Anticipated participants include the Board of County Commissioners, the Director of Human Resources, and the Deputy Director of Human Resources
The Board may recess into Executive Session to consider employment or dismissal of personnel, to review the performance of a public employee, to consult with legal counsel, to consider the position to be taken in collective bargaining, to consider acquisition or sale of real estate, or other matters per RCW 42.30.110
Clallam Board of Health meeting agenda for 9/ 18/ 18
http://clallam.granicus.com/DocumentViewer.php?file=clallam_ff21d41729ed9c4c9f249edaf8fe4ad8.pdf&view=1
Agenda highlight: Opioid Lawsuit Leg.
City of Port Angeles Council meeting agenda for 9/ 18/ 18
http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/5985/Final-Packet-09102018
Agenda highlight: Harbor Cleanup Process – Additional Deposit to WPAHG/PLP Group Account. ( J-1 in council packet)
In 2012, the Department of Ecology (DOE) informed the City that it is one of several entities potentially liable for some portion of the contaminants in the harbor. The City and the other entities named as PLPs
entered into a Participation Agreement. In that Agreement, the PLPs joined together to produce a RI/FS for cleanup of the western portion of the Port Angeles and to share the costs and expenses incurred in that effort. To facilitate production of the RI/FS, the PLP group also entered into an Environmental
Services Agreement with expert scientific and technical consultants. That Agreement specified that the consultants, under the direction of the PLP group, would produce a final RI/FS.
To provide funds to pay the consultants, the Group established a joint bank account and made equal contributions to that account. The PLP group knew that as the stages of the RI/FS work progressed, the PLP group would be making additional contributions to fund the work, and therefore included in the
Participation Agreement provisions for making the additional contributions when and as needed to complete the RI/FS. And in fact, as the RI/FS work progressed over the intervening years, the PLPs have made several contributions to the group account.
CLALLAM COUNTY PUD SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA
for 9/ 17/ 18
Agenda item: RESOLUTION 2116-18 (Tentative)
The Commissioners may consider adopting a Resolution Filling a Vacancy on the Board of Commissioners.
https://www.clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/9-17-18-Special-Meeting-Notice-PreAgenda.pdf
CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AGENDA FOR 9/ 17/ 18
http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=1253
Agenda highlight: Ordinance 3206 Related to Business Licensing; Amending Business Licensing Regulations, Establishing a License Threshold Exemption for Businesses Located Outside City Limits and Amending Chapter 5.08 of the Port Townsend Municipal Code.
Action: Move to approve first reading of Ordinance 3206 Related to Business Licensing; Amending Business Licensing Regulations, establishing a license threshold exemption for businesses located outside city limits and Amending Chapter 5.08 of the Port Townsend Municipal Code.
Jefferson CountyBoard of CommissionersRegular Meeting –September 17, 2018, Agenda.
https://media.avcaptureall.com/session.html?sessionid=40289bdc-29f7-4f7e-b7a3-3865bfd208d2&prefilter=845,5958
Agenda item highlight: HEARING NOTICE re: Five Conservation Futures Project Applications submitted for consideration during the 2018 Funding Round to include Chimacum Forest (Short’s Forest), Dabob Bay Natural Area Addition, Marrowstone Mize, Ruby Ranch Preservation, and Snow Creek Middle Reach Forest Protection Projects;Hearing Scheduled for Monday, October 1, 2018 at 10:15a.m. in the Commissioners Chambers, Jefferson County Courthouse, Port Townsend.
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🕂He's in your corner
WEEKLY BIBLE VERSE: And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.---1 John 4:16 NIV
Weekly Bible Study
What Is a Saint? Are You a Saint?
Some people believe that a saint is a Christian who has died and been officially recognized by a church so people can pray to him. Or we may hear people say, "Well, I'm no saint," meaning they are not sinlessly perfect. But what is a saint according to the Bible?---Gospel Way
Free bible studies (WBS)
Learn english using the bible as text (WEI)
(Join us in worship every Sunday starting at 10:30AM Church of Christ)
👲Riddle Genie
last week's question: A murderer is condemned to death. He has to choose among three rooms. The first is full of raging fires, the second is full of assassins with loaded guns, and the third is full of lions that haven't eaten in 3 years. Which room is safest for him?
Last week's answer: The third one. Lions that haven’t eaten in three years are dead.
New Question: A rooster lays an egg on the top of the roof. Which way does it roll?
Answer next week!
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