Commentary by, Peter Ripley
The question is will we see both Cantwell & Murray recant their statement now since the revelation that Judy Ford, made the whole thing up because she wanted attention, that's according to a letter sent by her to Sen. Chuck Grassley. I checked both Senators Murray and Cantwell webpage today when the story broke, not a peep from them. Most people would face indictment for perjury, under oath for lying to Congress. That hasn't happened as of yet but indictment should come quickly. The two Senators, Cantwell and Murray apparently based their statements on hear say, not bothering to investigate if any of the charges Ford made, were even true, they made statements how brave she was coming to congress and telling her story, and now it turned out to be a complete fabrication. They were focused on one goal to trash Trump it appears. Where's Murray and Cantwell? Too busy wiping the egg yolk off their faces on this one.
This according to a published report in PJ Media today: Woman Who Accused Brett Kavanaugh of Rape Admits to Judiciary Committee She Lied.
Related headlines:
Senator Murray on Rushed, Limited FBI Investigation of Judge Kavanaugh: “Once again, the voices of women and their experiences have been silenced and pushed aside”.
Press release from Sen Murray dated 10/ 4/ 18
Quote: " I believe Dr. Ford. And to me, Judge Kavanaugh has also shown so clearly that he does not have the temperament or credibility to serve on the Supreme Court. But for any of my colleagues who may not be persuaded yet and have bravely stood up to ask for more information and a thorough investigation, and for all of us who believe that the Senate should do its jobs and get this right, we cannot rush this to a finish."
Cantwell Statement on Today’s Judiciary Committee Hearing
Press release issued on 9/ 27/ 18
"The Senate should not move forward on the Kavanaugh nomination. Dr. Ford's strong testimony should be enough to stop any further votes before a complete nonpartisan investigation takes place. Dr. Ford showed great strength and courage in painting for the nation the long-lasting impacts of sexual assault."
FOX NEWS: Trump challenges Democrats after Kavanaugh accuser admits to making false rape accusation: ‘Where are the Dems on this?’
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-challenges-democrats-after-kavanaugh-accuser-admits-to-making-false-rape-accusation-where-are-the-dems-on-this
IN OTHER HEADLINES....
House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.): " you cannot end birthright citizenship with an executive order."Editorial note: That quote was from the PJ Media article: Ryan: Trump Alone Can't End Birthright Citizenship; Trump Says Ryan 'Knows Nothing'.
Quoting from the White House press release, Oct. 31st, while the President was departing Air Force One, answering a question why Trump is attacking Sen. Ryan, Trump said quote" THE PRESIDENT: Birthright citizenship is a very, very important subject. In my opinion, it’s much less complex than people think. I think it says it very loud and clear in the Constitution that you don’t have to go through the process of whatever they’re talking about. And, by the way, this is not a Constitutional amendment. You don’t need a Constitutional amendment for birthright citizenship.
Q Who told you that?
THE PRESIDENT: I believe that you can have a simple vote in Congress, or it’s even possible, in my opinion — this is after meeting with some very talented legal scholars — that you can do it through an executive order. Now, I’d rather do it through Congress, because that’s permanent. But we can certainly do it through — I really believe we can do it through executive order.
One other thing: If President Obama can get DACA approved, if you look at DACA — where he actually said, “Well, this isn’t legal, or this I can’t do, but I’ll do it anyway,” and then he gets a judge to approve it — and it will ultimately be decided by the Supreme Court, I hope quickly — but certainly if he can do DACA, we can do this by executive order.
With that being said, I think Congress will ultimately act, but I may very well do it by executive order. Just so you understand: A person comes in, was never in our country before, has a baby, and now, all of a sudden, the baby is a United States citizen. And through chain migration and other things, many other people come in, through the baby. It’s ridiculous.
All you have to do is take a look at what Harry Reid said in 1993. And guess what? Before he went insane, he got it right.
Q Are you going to blame Paul Ryan if Republicans don’t hold the House?
THE PRESIDENT: No, I’m not going to blame anybody. I think we’re doing well with the House. We’re going to have to see. It’s a lot of people. I campaigned for a lot of candidates that were down a little bit, and now they’re up. But we’re going to see. I think we’re going to do well in the House, and I think we’re doing, really, extraordinarily well in the Senate."
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-marine-one-departure-21/
Related news stories:
PJ Media: Five Reasons Obama Is to Blame for Trump Believing He Can Unilaterally End Birthright Citizenship.
THE HILL: Trump's attack on Ryan seen as advance scapegoating.
THE DAILY SIGNAL: Trump Is Right. Ending Birthright Citizenship Is Constitutional.
WP: Trump thinks he can rewrite the Constitution. Guess what comes next.
THE PATRIOT POST: No, the President Cannot End Birthright Citizenship.
WASHINGTON TIMES: Trump backs off executive order threat, says Congress is better path to end birthright citizenship.
Notice Regarding the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Sudan.---White House press release.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/notice-regarding-continuation-national-emergency-respect-sudan-2/
On November 3, 1997, by Executive Order 13067, the President declared a national emergency with respect to Sudan pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701-1706) and took related steps to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States posed by the actions and policies of the Government of Sudan. On April 26, 2006, by Executive Order 13400, the President determined that the conflict in Sudan’s Darfur region posed an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States, expanded the scope of the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13067, and ordered the blocking of property of certain persons connected to the Darfur region. On October 13, 2006, by Executive Order 13412, the President took additional steps with respect to the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13067 and expanded in Executive Order 13400. In Executive Order 13412, the President also took steps to implement the Darfur Peace and Accountability Act of 2006 (Public Law 109-344).
On January 13, 2017, by Executive Order 13761, the President found that positive efforts by the Government of Sudan between July 2016 and January 2017 improved certain conditions that Executive Orders 13067 and 13412 were intended to address. Given these developments, and in order to encourage the Government of Sudan to sustain and enhance these efforts, section 1 of Executive Order 13761 provided that sections 1 and 2 of Executive Order 13067 and the entirety of Executive Order 13412 would be revoked as of July 12, 2017, provided that the criteria in section 12(b) of Executive Order 13761 had been met.
On July 11, 2017, by Executive Order 13804, I amended Executive Order 13761, extending until October 12, 2017, the effective date in section 1 of Executive Order 13761. On October 12, 2017, pursuant to Executive Order 13761, as amended by Executive Order 13804, sections 1 and 2 of Executive Order 13067 and the entirety of Executive Order 13412 were revoked.
Despite recent positive developments, the crisis constituted by the actions and policies of the Government of Sudan that led to the declaration of a national emergency in Executive Order 13067 of November 3, 1997; the expansion of that emergency in Executive Order 13400 of April 26, 2006; and with respect to which additional steps were taken in Executive Order 13412 of October 13, 2006, Executive Order 13761 of January 13, 2017, and Executive Order 13804 of July 11, 2017, has not been resolved. These actions and policies continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States. I have, therefore, determined that it is necessary to continue the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13067, as expanded by Executive Order 13400, with respect to Sudan.
IN WORLD NEWS HEADLINES FROM THE UN NEWS CENTER & OTHER SOURCES:
‘United against hate’: UN chief and religious leaders honour victims of Pittsburgh synagogue shooting.
Calling for solidarity against anti-Semitism, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, addressed an inter-faith tribute held on Wednesday in New York’s historic Park East Synagogue, to honour victims of Saturday’s mass-shooting in Pittsburgh.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/10/1024542
UN chief calls for ‘united front’ against anti-Semitism after US synagogue mass-shooting
The UN Secretary-General said on Saturday he was “deeply shocked” by a deadly mass-shooting inside a synagogue in the US city of Pittsburgh, which reportedly left 11 people dead and several others wounded, some critically.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/10/1024322
PJ MEDIA: Pittsburgh and the Misplaced Anger of 'Liberal' Jews.
https://pjmedia.com/rogerlsimon/pittsburgh-and-the-misplaced-anger-of-liberal-jews/
NY TIMES: Trump Finds Support After the Pittsburgh Massacre, From the Israeli Government.
WASHINGTON — When President Trump arrived Tuesday at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh to pay his respects to the 11 victims of a mass shooting three days earlier, the only public official standing there to greet him was Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Ron Dermer.
THE DAILY SIGNAL: Tree of Life Rabbi Says He Was ‘Pleasantly Surprised’ by Trump’s ‘Warm and Personal Side’ During Pittsburgh Visit.
https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/11/01/tree-of-life-rabbi-says-he-was-pleasantly-surprised-by-trumps-warm-and-personal-side-during-pittsburgh-visit/
🌍PAGE 2
As National Disability Employment Awareness Month Concludes, Senator Murray Releases New Report Highlighting Employment Challenges Facing People with Disabilities---Press release from Sen. Murray on 10/ 31/ 18
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ID=DBFB2750-5867-46F7-BDFD-C2932CF7064D
Washington, D.C. – As National Disability Employment Awareness Month comes to a close, today U.S. Senator Patty Murray, ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, released a new report highlighting the challenges people with disabilities face in the workforce when trying to secure or maintain employment. The report from the Senate HELP Minority staff offers key recommendations to modernize outdated policies and programs that have been a continued barrier to people with disabilities in employment, including phasing out authority that allows the Secretary of Labor to permit employers to pay people with disabilities wages less than the federal minimum wage.
“People with disabilities should have equal opportunities in the workforce as their peers without disabilities do and it’s beyond time our laws reflected this truth,” said Senator Murray. “This important report lays out several ways federal agencies and Congress can and should update our outdated laws and programs to empower individuals with disabilities and ensure that they, too, have an equal shot at the American dream.”
In addition to offering recommendations, the report examines disability employment outcomes with data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as well as summarizes outdated programs and disability employment policy and provides an overview of the HELP Committee’s findings on the vocational rehabilitation agencies’ continued efforts to implement the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Rehabilitation Act).
Prior to the release of the report, Senator Murray introduced a resolution in the Senate to recognize the importance of NDEAM. She also included a statement in the Congressional record in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), a federal agency which supports applied research, training and technical assistance to enhance the lives of people with disabilities.
🌎MORE WORLD NEWS HEADLINES:
Looming famine in Yemen could put two million mothers at risk of death – UN agency.
The critical difficulties in accessing food in Yemen, and other hardships caused by the ongoing conflict, could lead to the world’s worst famine ever, and place up to two million malnourished, pregnant and lactating women at risk of death, the UN sexual and reproductive health agency, UNFPA, said on Thursday.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/11/1024652
Fighting ‘existential crisis’ of encroaching desert sands
In a move described as a landmark decision, the Group of Earth Observations (GEO) – a UN-backed partnership set up to improve Earth observation data-sharing and availability, to benefit all life – has launched a global initiative to reverse the “existential crisis” created by desertification and land degradation.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/11/1024642
From the US Mission to the UN:
Remarks at a UN General Assembly Meeting on Cuba.
Quote: " Cuba and its allies do the same thing every year. They propose a resolution blaming Cuba’s poverty, repression, and lack of freedom on the United States. They falsely blame America for all kinds of evil things, even genocide.'
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8715
Remarks at a Meeting of the Sixth Committee on Agenda Item 82: Report of the International Law Commission on the Work of its 70th Session.
Quote: " The celebrations this year have offered an opportunity to reflect on the Commission’s contributions to the codification and development of international law. The United States has closely followed the Commission’s work since its inception. In its 70 years, the Commission has addressed a broad range of issues and produced analyses that provide insights to government lawyers, private practitioners, judges, and academics. At times, the Commission’s work has formed the basis for multilateral treaties that have become foundational elements of international law.'
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8714
Remarks following the Adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2440 Extending the Mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).
Quote: " We are encouraged by the progress made in the last six months: we welcome Personal Envoy Kohler’s decision to restart a direct negotiation process beginning with a roundtable in Geneva. We are pleased that Morocco, the Frente Polisario, Algeria, and Mauritania have all accepted Personal Envoy Kohler’s invitation in good faith and without preconditions, and we urge that they engage constructively with the Personal Envoy throughout the duration of this process in order to realize a realistic, practicable, and enduring political solution.'
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8713
Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Ukraine.
Quote: " Mr. President, these sham elections, staged by Russia, run directly counter to efforts to implement the Minsk peace agreements. The elections also obstruct and undermine efforts to end the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine, which has killed over 10,000 people and causes more casualties daily. The Minsk agreements state that the OSCE must supervise elections, which are to be held in accordance with Ukrainian law and OSCE standards. The November 11 balloting will satisfy none of these conditions.'
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8712
US STATE DEPT: Ending the Conflict in Yemen
Secretary Pompeo (Oct. 30): "The U.S. calls on all parties to support UN Special Envoy Martin Griffiths in finding a peaceful solution to the conflict in Yemen based on the agreed references. ... It is time to end this conflict, replace conflict with compromise, and allow the Yemeni people to heal through peace and reconstruction.
https://www.state.gov/secretary/remarks/2018/10/287018.htm
🌎PAGE 3
Presidential Proclamation Honoring the Victims of the Tragedy in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania---Press release from the White House dated 10/ 27/ 18
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/presidential-proclamation-honoring-victims-tragedy-pittsburgh-pennsylvania/
As a mark of solemn respect for the victims of the terrible act of violence perpetrated at The Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on October 27, 2018, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, October 31, 2018. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-seventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eighteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-third.----DONALD J. TRUMP
Related news stories:
DOJ: Pennsylvania Man Charged with Federal Hate Crimes for Tree Of Life Synagogue Shooting.
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/pennsylvania-man-charged-federal-hate-crimes-tree-life-synagogue-shooting
Robert Bowers Indicted on 44 Counts Including Hate Crimes Resulting in Deaths
A federal grand jury sitting in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania charged a Pennsylvania man with federal hate crimes, including the murder of 11 people, for his actions during the Oct. 27, 2018 shootings at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill neighborhood. United States Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore for the Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania Scott W. Brady, and FBI-Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Robert Jones made the announcement.
PJ MEDIA: Howard Dean: Trump 'Showed His True Colors' by 'Demonizing Jews' After Pittsburgh Shooting.
🗽IN OTHER NATIONAL HEADLINES...
Prepared Remarks by Secretary DeVos at the 4th U.S.-China State and Provincial Education Leaders Dialogue.
China is an important partner and the U.S.-China cooperation based off of mutual respect and shared interests will help ensure the world's stability and future prosperity for decades to come. Education and workforce development has benefited from U.S.-China Dialogue and we look forward to continuing that dialogue today on career and technical education, apprenticeships and business-education partnerships.
https://www.ed.gov/news/speeches/prepared-remarks-secretary-devos-4th-us-china-state-and-provincial-education-leaders-dialogue
TRUMP ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES DECLINE IN VETERAN HOMELESSNESS
Number of homeless vets drops 5.4% since last year and by nearly half since 2010.
WASHINGTON – Veteran homelessness in the U.S. continues to decline according to a new national estimate announced today by U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Ben Carson. HUD’s Annual Homeless Assessment Report finds the total number of reported veterans experiencing homelessness in 2018 decreased 5.4 percent since last year, falling to nearly half of the number of homeless veterans reported in 2010.
https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_18_132
HUD CHARGES NEW JERSEY CONDO ASSOCIATION WITH DISCRIMINATING AGAINST RESIDENT WITH DISABILITIES
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today charged Hudson Harbour Condominium Association, Inc., in Newark, NJ, with discriminating against a resident with disabilities.
https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_18_131
U.S. EPA requires trucking companies to reduce air pollution near Los Angeles schools.
LOS ANGELES – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced settlements with two interstate trucking companies which will pay $225,000 in penalties to resolve violations of California’s Truck and Bus Regulation. The companies failed to install particulate filters on some of their heavy-duty diesel trucks and failed to verify that trucks they hired for use in California complied with the state rule. As part of the settlement, the companies will spend $575,000 on air filtration systems at schools in the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/us-epa-requires-trucking-companies-reduce-air-pollution-near-los-angeles-schools
Statement from FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D., on findings from the romaine lettuce E. coli O157:H7 outbreak investigation and FDA’s efforts to prevent future outbreaks.
https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm624867.htm
🌎PAGE 4
DOJ: Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Criminal Division Delivers Remarks Regarding Chinese Economic Espionage.
https://www.justice.gov/opa/speech/assistant-attorney-general-brian-benczkowski-criminal-division-delivers-remarks-regarding
Thank you, John. The Criminal Division fully supports the Attorney General’s initiative to counter Chinese economic aggression. Every day, the Chinese engage in efforts to steal American trade secrets and commit other illegal acts intended to enrich their economy at the expense of American businesses.
These acts are not only carried out by the Chinese government and its agents. They also are carried out through companies and individuals who commit crimes here and abroad. American citizens and businesses suffer as a result.
To counter these efforts and complement the work of the National Security Division, prosecutors in the Criminal Division work collaboratively every day with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices (USAOs) around the country to bring charges against Chinese companies and individuals for the theft of trade secrets. Today, we are announcing a commitment to redouble our efforts.
We see it time and again: Chinese actors have stolen wind turbine technology in Wisconsin, agricultural research in Kansas, cancer drug research in Pennsylvania, and software source code in New York. Wherever we see examples of this kind of criminal behavior, the Department will investigate it and prosecute it to the fullest extent possible. We also will continue to work hard to ensure that offenders face justice in U.S. courts.
Our Office of International Affairs is the focal point for all extraditions around the globe. In just the past few years, the Department has successfully extradited nine Chinese individuals, including two for theft of trade secrets. Long prison terms for these offenders help to create much-needed deterrence.
The Chinese government has also shielded its banks from our lawful requests for evidence. This policy has resulted in rampant money laundering of criminal proceeds. The Chinese financial system should not be a safe haven for criminal enterprises. And Chinese banks should not have an unfair advantage over American ones.
We know that Chinese companies and individuals also have bribed government officials in other countries in order to win contracts. The Criminal Division is committed to fully enforcing the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Bringing these offenders to justice will help create a level playing field for American companies in foreign markets.
In sum: the Criminal Division is committed to bringing every necessary resource to bear in support of this effort. We are proud to be part of this initiative with our partners in NSD, USAOs across the country, and federal law enforcement, and will work hard to do our part to assure fairness in the global economic system.
🗽MORE NATIONAL HEADLINES...
DOD: Remarks By Secretary Mattis at an Armed Forces Full Honor Arrival Welcoming Republic of Korea Minister of National Defense Jeong to the Pentagon
Secretary Of Defense James N. Mattis; Republic of Korea Minister of National Defense Jeong Kyeongdoo
https://dod.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1678582/remarks-by-secretary-mattis-at-an-armed-forces-full-honor-arrival-welcoming-rep/
Report on U.S. Portfolio Holdings of Foreign Securities at End-Year.
Washington – The findings from the annual survey of U.S. portfolio holdings of foreign securities at year-end 2017 were released today and posted on the Treasury web site at https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/tic/Pages/fpis.aspx.
The survey was undertaken jointly by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.
A complementary survey measuring foreign holdings of U.S. securities is also conducted annually. Data from the most recent such survey, which reports on securities held at end-June 2018, are currently being processed. Preliminary results are expected to be reported on February 28, 2019.
https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm540
Secretary Zinke Designates A.P. Tureaud Home the Fifth Historic Site within the African American Civil Rights Network.
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke today announced the designation of the A.P. Tureaud, Sr. Home as the fifth historic site within the African American Civil Rights Network. Secretary Zinke was joined by the family of Alexander Pierre (A.P.) Tureaud, Sr.. A.P. Tureaud made major contributions to advancing the goals of the African-American Civil Rights Movement as a preeminent civil rights attorney in Louisiana.
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/secretary-zinke-designates-ap-tureaud-home-fifth-historic-site-within-african-american
NY TIMES: Ryan Zinke Faces Increased Ethics Scrutiny.
WASHINGTON — Ryan Zinke, the secretary of the Interior Department and a key figure in President Trump’s push to roll back environmental regulations and ramp up oil drilling, is facing increased scrutiny amid federal investigations into allegations that he abused travel spending and maintained close ties with industries he oversees.
Statement from Jeffrey Shuren, M.D., J.D., Director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health on the National Toxicology Program’s report on radiofrequency energy exposure.
https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm624809.htm
📊PAGE 5: BUSINESS & FINANCE
USDA Announces Funding to Increase Access to Education, Workforce Training and Health Care Opportunities in Rural Communities.
Press release issued 10/ 31/ 18
https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2018/10/31/usda-announces-funding-increase-access-education-workforce-training
WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2018 – Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue today announced that USDA is awarding grants for 128 projects to increase access to job training (PDF, 351 KB), educational and health care services in rural areas.
“Empowering rural Americans with access to services for quality of life and economic development is critical to rural prosperity,” Secretary Perdue said. “Distance learning and telemedicine technology bridges the gap that often exists between rural communities and essential education, workforce training and health care resources.”
USDA is awarding $39.6 million through the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Grant Program. More than 4.5 million residents in 40 states and three territories will benefit from the funding.
Below are summaries of some of USDA’s investments in rural communities:
Washburn University, in Kansas, is being awarded $349,213 to help provide resources to enable two-way interactive distance learning via video teleconferencing technology. The technology will help develop workplace skills that are increasingly needed in the modern, technical work environment. The resources provided through this investment will enable rural students across Kansas to obtain these skills. Additionally, this investment will be used to recruit and retain health care workers for rural communities. More than 3,700 students will have access to the educational opportunities provided with this project, including students in a high school in the Lawrence-Gardener Juvenile Corrections Center.
St. Anthony Hospital, in Oklahoma, is receiving $457,020 to help SSM Health Care of Oklahoma purchase telemedicine equipment to expand its Saints 1st Telehealth Network to serve up to 3,434 inpatients and 3,401 outpatients. This project will reduce time and expense for patients to access specialized medical services such as cardiology, endocrinology, pulmonology, ENT (ear, nose and throat), pediatric, hospitalist, primary care, and mental health care. Telemedicine links will be established at 12 hub/end-user locations in Beaver, Blaine, Custer, Garvin, Harper, Kiowa, Lincoln, Major, McClain, Washita and Woods counties. Project sites include nine rural hospitals and three rural physician practices. This project will significantly improve health care in the affected areas.
In April 2017, President Donald J. Trump established the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity to identify legislative, regulatory and policy changes that could promote agriculture and prosperity in rural communities. In January 2018, Secretary Perdue presented the Task Force’s findings to President Trump. These findings included 31 recommendations to align the federal government with state, local and tribal governments to take advantage of opportunities that exist in rural America. Increasing investments in rural infrastructure is a key recommendation of the task force.
To view the report in its entirety, please view the Report to the President of the United States from the Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity (PDF, 5.4 MB). In addition, to view the categories of the recommendations, please view the Rural Prosperity infographic (PDF, 190 KB).
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.
MORE BUSINESS AND FINANCE NEWS:
USDA BLOG: Devastating Fire Season Inspires Restoration Collaboration in the Spirit of Shared Stewardship.
The summer of 2015 was exceptionally hot and dry in northern Idaho. Fuel moistures had dropped to alarming levels, and when a series of lightning storms moved across the region in early August, hundreds of fires flared up. A group of fast-moving and intense fires, which eventually became known as the Clearwater Complex, destroyed 62 homes and damaged another 211 structures. Overall, the fire encompassed more than 47,000 acres of both public and private land.
https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2018/10/31/devastating-fire-season-inspires-restoration-collaboration-spirit-shared
U.S. SECRETARY OF LABOR ACOSTA STATEMENT REGARDING NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH.
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta issued the following statement today regarding National Native American Heritage Month:
"During National Native American Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich history and traditions of American Indians and Alaska Natives. With pride in their heritage, Native Americans lift up our nation each day, contributing to the strength and vibrancy of our economy, civic and educational institutions, culture, and public life. As we honor Native Americans, President Trump's Administration is committed to opening more opportunity for American Indians and Alaska Natives."
https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/osec/osec20181101
401(k) contribution limit increases to $19,000 for 2019; IRA limit increases to $6,000
IR-2018-211, Nov. 1, 2018
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today announced cost of living adjustments affecting dollar limitations for pension plans and other retirement-related items for tax year 2019. The IRS today issued technical guidance detailing these items in Notice 2018-83.
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/401k-contribution-limit-increases-to-19000-for-2019-ira-limit-increases-to-6000
Federal Reserve Board invites public comment on framework that would more closely match regulations for large banking organizations with their risk profiles.
The Federal Reserve Board on Wednesday invited public comment on a framework that would more closely match the regulations for large banking organizations with their risk profiles. The changes would reduce compliance requirements for firms with less risk while maintaining more stringent requirements for firms with more risk.
https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/bcreg20181031a.htm
FTC and New York Attorney General Sue Operators of Debt Collection Scheme
Defendants tricked consumers into agreeing to pay more money than what they allegedly owed.
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2018/11/ftc-new-york-attorney-general-sue-operators-debt-collection
🌎PAGE 6
Inslee tours infrastructure innovation in and around Spokane
From the Governor's medium page, dated 10/ 30/ 18
https://medium.com/wagovernor/inslee-tours-infrastructure-innovation-in-and-around-spokane-2c413991e78e
Sometimes innovation takes big leaps, ushering in a new era in the form of groundbreaking new policies and technological invention. More typically, innovation happens on a localized scale, taking the shape of brave projects and new ideas. Gov. Jay Inslee traveled to the Spokane area last week to see two new projects that will improve the infrastructure of the region and connect the community more easily to the future.
Largest new solar project goes live in southern central Washington
First, Inslee visited Lind, a town between Spokane and the Tri-Cities. This community may be small, but their creative ambition has made them home to Washington’s largest new solar farm. The Adams Nielson solar array spans 170 acres, and will generate enough renewable solar electricity to power 4,000 homes each year. With 81,000 solar panels, this array is 25 times larger than the current largest solar farm in our state, and is providing power to over sixty large commercial customers in the state.
The new solar array is a prime example of the type of projects Inslee had in mind when he signed SB 5939 into law, which expanded and extended Washington’s Renewable Energy Cost Recovery Incentive Program. The project is providing power to Avista customers under Avista’s Solar Select Program, which is made possible by the state production incentive for solar energy funded through state public utility tax incentives.
“It’s about time that we move away from antiquated sources of energy like coal, and develop more diverse renewable energy options for our state,” Inslee said of the project. “As we consider policies to address the threats of climate change, projects like this solar array show that there is a demand for clean energy, and that Washington state is a leader in clean energy development. As we look for solutions that will help our state meet our emissions reduction targets and put us on a pathway to 100 percent clean electricity, more projects like this will be needed.
The project — which is a partnership between Avista Utilities and Strata Solar — is a key example of how Washington is building clean energy infrastructure and transitioning to a clean energy economy.
“By taking advantage of Washington state tax incentives, Avista is able to cost effectively offer renewable energy to our largest customers,” said Dennis Vermillion, Avista President. “It gives them an opportunity to participate in a voluntary shared solar program that, in turn, helps them meet their sustainability goals.”
The new solar array came in response to a growing demand for clean energy from the utility company’s customers. Avista shared that even before operation begins, their customers who prefer renewable energy have arranged to purchase the green electricity that will be generated by the new solar array.
New bridge reconnects Spokane neighborhoods
For a final stop in the day, Inslee toured Spokane’s new University District Gateway Bridge. Once complete, this project will connect East Spokane to downtown in an area that is currently blocked by over a mile of train track.
The new bridge will provide safe passage to bicyclists and pedestrians alike. This will expand the downtown region and create a safe, walk able community for students taking classes at one of the University District’s many satellite campuses. It will also improve access for all residents of East Spokane by creating a more centralized community for businesses, residents and visitors alike.
Fourteen million of the funding for the new bridge was paid for by the bi-partisan Connecting Washington package signed by Inslee. The governor brokered the 16-year, $16 billion Connecting Washington transportation investment package to address critical safety, maintenance and congestion needs across the state. This package also provided funding for several other important infrastructure projects in Spokane, such as the US 395 North-South Highway, the PCC Railroad and the Spokane Central City Line.
“The progress of our state depends on investments in infrastructure for jobs, clean energy and community developments,” Inslee commented while visiting the bridge. “The University District Gateway Bridge is a great example of this investment, and will greatly improve safety for pedestrians — especially students.”
In other State related headlines:
AG DATA BREACH REPORT FINDS 3.4 MILLION WASHINGTONIANS’ PRIVACY COMPROMISED BY DATA BREACHES.
OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s third annual Data Breach Report finds that data breaches affected nearly 3.4 million Washingtonians between July of 2017 and July of 2018 — an increase of 700,000, or 26 percent, over the previous year, and an increase of nearly 3 million, or more than 700 percent, compared to two years ago.
http://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-data-breach-report-finds-34-million-washingtonians-privacy-compromised-data
AG FERGUSON RELEASES STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMP’S INTENT TO END BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP THROUGH EXECUTIVE ORDER.
OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson released the following statement on President Trump’s intent to end birthright citizenship in the United States through executive order.
http://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-releases-statement-president-trump-s-intent-end-birthright
Editorial note: since the issuing of this press release reports that Trump has backed off from this act.)
WASHINGTON STATE FILES PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING EPA PROPOSAL TO REVERSE CLEAN POWER PLAN, GOV. INSLEE AND AG FERGUSON ISSUE STATEMENT.
New rules would cause increased air pollution, potentially thousands more deaths and illnesses every year versus the Clean Power Plan.
http://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/washington-state-files-public-comments-regarding-epa-proposal-reverse-clean-power
Commerce awards $5.6 million to increase number of early learning facilities.
Expanding opportunities for low-income children leads to better health, success in school, lifetime resilience.
https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/community-programs-facilities/commerce-awards-5-6-million-to-increase-number-of-early-learning-facilities/
Commerce names new leads for economic development strategies in key aerospace and life science industry sectors.
Robin Toth, former vice president at Greater Spokane, Inc., will head the state’s public-private collaborative efforts to grow aerospace in Washington; Julia Terlinchamp leaves Gov. Inslee staff to lead life sciences/global health sector development.
https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/growing-the-economy/commerce-names-new-leads-for-economic-development-strategies-in-key-aerospace-and-life-science-industry-sectors/
PAGE 7: MORE STATE NEWS HEADLINES & LOCAL MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS.
Inslee statement: We need leaders who speak against fear, not use it
October 28, 2018.
https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-statement-we-need-leaders-who-speak-against-fear-not-use-it
“This is a difficult and anxious time for anyone in our nation who doesn't look, love or worship like the majority. The attack in Pittsburgh yesterday was an attack on all Americans, as were the pipe bomb attacks on those who have stood up against the endless venom and division coming from our nation’s capital. The president’s answer – to arm our teachers, to arm our synagogues – is wildly contrary to the task of building the community we seek. We don’t need our leaders calling on us to be armed, we need our leaders to ask us to open our arms to one another. We need leaders who speak against fear, not use it.
“We have had many dark chapters in our nation’s history where forces of xenophobia, bigotry, racism, misogyny and nationalism were able to gain a foothold. Once again we find ourselves in the midst of another dark chapter. It is not enough now for any one of us, particularly our national leaders, to disavow these forces. Neutrality is complicity. It is dangerous to deny the link between hateful rhetoric and the hateful violence now afflicting our country. It is the clear and compelling duty of all in public life to call forth the better angels of our nature that Lincoln summoned, to seek our commonalities rather than our divisions, and to speak out against those who do otherwise.
“We are not all members of the Jewish community, a community subjected to centuries of persecution. We are not all transgender. We are not all Muslim. We are not all African-American. We are not all Hispanic. We are not all survivors of sexual assault. But we are all linked in a human destiny whose survival depends on a rejection of the politics that feed on fear of ‘the other.’ The politics that revel in the loss and suffering of others must be rejected. The more we love, the less we will lose.
“In this darkness we must remember that America is resilient. In Washington state we can be confident we live in a place that will continue to welcome, value and stand up for the rights of people of all faiths, all orientations and all nationalities. The foothold of hate and fear of ‘the other’ will not take root here. We will use the full force of our voices, our votes and our state rights to defend the people and values that have made Washington, and the United States, a beacon for people around the world.”
More state news headlines:
DOE: Agreement starts cleanup process for east King County landfill.
Public meeting Nov. 16; Comment through Dec. 7.
https://ecology.wa.gov/About-us/Get-to-know-us/News/2018/East-King-County-landfill-cleanup
DOE: Monitoring is essential to Puget Sound
Data focuses on climate impacts, nutrient pollution
The recent death of young orca J-50 sent a clear message: It’s more important than ever to dig in and understand what is happening in Puget Sound. It’s urgent.
https://ecologywa.blogspot.com/2018/11/monitoring-is-essential-to-puget-sound.html
WDFW invites the public to a 'digital open house' with the Director
OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has scheduled a webinar for Nov. 28 to give its new director an opportunity to discuss the agency's long-term plans to conserve fish and wildlife and promote outdoor recreation throughout the state.
https://wdfw.wa.gov/news/nov0118a/
WDFW will accept applications for ALEA volunteer grants
OLYMPIA – Starting Dec. 1, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will begin accepting grant applications for volunteer projects that benefit the state's fish and wildlife resources and the public's enjoyment of them.
https://wdfw.wa.gov/news/oct3118a/
State revokes, suspends licenses, certifications, registrations of health care providers.
Clallam County
In October 2018 the Naturopathy Board entered an agreement with naturopathic physician Richard A. Marschall (NT00000532) under which his credential is permanently revoked with no right to reapply. A 2018 Thurston County Superior Court order permanently prohibited Marschall from the practice of naturopathic medicine, from representing himself as a naturopathic physician, from using the initials “ND,” and from using the title “doctor,” “naturopath,” or any other similar title without the requisite health care credential. In the order, Marschall stipulated to findings that he had continued to practice naturopathic medicine despite not having had a license since 2013. A 2017 federal criminal conviction required Marschall to remove his website, which he failed to do. Marschall’s disciplinary and criminal history dates back to 2011.
https://www.doh.wa.gov/Newsroom/2018NewsReleases/18157SuspensionM1848NewsRelease
WSDOT: Start preparing for winter driving before snow and ice arrive.
OLYMPIA – The falling leaves and colder weather can mean only one thing – snow and ice are just around the corner. With the changing seasons, now is the perfect time for travelers to shift their focus towards winter driving.
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/news/2018/10/30/start-preparing-winter-driving-snow-and-ice-arrive
📢LOCAL MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS
Clallam County Meetings:
County Commission work session for 11/ 5/ 18
http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1131
Agenda Highlights:
Regular Session of the County Commissioner for 11/ 6/ 18
http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=400
Agenda Highlights:
Clallam PUD special meeting 11/ 5/ 18
https://clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/November-5-2018-Special-meeting.pdf
Agenda Highlight: All materials on this contract with Valmont Composite Structures have been furnished in accordance with the contract documents, and the Commissioners will consider accepting the contract as complete.
Staff recommendation: Accept as complete Contract# 180802 with Valmont Composite Structures for thirty-two (32) fiberglass transmission poles in the amount of $185,810.69 including WSST.
PORT OF PORT ANGELES COMMISSION MEETING FOR 11/ 5/ 18
https://portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11052018-333
Agenda highlight: GSA - United States Department of Transportation Lease (pg. 10-14) of agenda packet.
The USDOT has received their 2019 project listing covering projects in the Port Angeles area through 2020. In fall 2019, USDOT expects to receive their 2020 project listing covering 2021 through 2022.
Because of funding, USDOT can only engage in one-year terms. Each year, Port staff will have the opportunity to evaluate the costs of the operating lease and increase the operating lease amount if appropriate. Port staff will also have the opportunity to increase the shell lease rate annually.
CITY OF PORT ANGELES AGENDA FOR 11/ 6/ 18
http://www.cityofpa.us/DocumentCenter/View/6130/Final-Packet-11062018
Agenda highlight: Proposed Adjustments to 2019 Utility Rates .
Rates for Electric, Water, Wastewater, Stormwater and Solid Waste
Collections utilities were adopted on December 19, 2017 (Ord. No 3601) to set rates through 2018. Solid Waste Transfer Station rates for 2018 were adopted on October 17, 2017 (Ord. No 3590). All utility rates, with the exception of Medic 1, are to expire on December 31, 2018.
As part of the Budget and Cost of Service Analysis (COSA) process, revenue and expenditure analysis, including verification and some reduction of interdepartmental allocations for service work, was
completed to determine the rate requirements for the 2019 Budget expenditures.
Some rates were determined to already meet expenditure requirements, thus no change in rates are recommended. Other rates will require differing levels of rate increases to achieve the required revenue levels. In some cases the information presented by the COSA process has identified areas suggesting potential adjustments between and within rate classes to achieve customer rate equity.
As with the 2018 Budget, the recommendation for 2019 is one-year rate options for all affected utilities.
The proposal of single year rate setting will allow Staff and Council the opportunity to fully understand the implications that the operational reviews (COSAs) are sending, evaluate rate structure preferences, pursue potential rate changes including phase-in options, and recommend future rate options that can be used for multiple years.
For 2019, staff recommends rate increases at 5.4% for residential Water and 0.5% for all Wastewater rates, except CSO which would remain at 2018 levels. Existing 2018 rates provide sufficient 2019. revenues for Electric, Solid Waste Collections, Solid Waste Transfer Station, and Stormwater. Medic 1 rates were approved in 2017 for 3 years. 2019 Medic 1 rates will increase 1.8%. The overall impact to residential customer bills, as a result of these proposed changes, is expected to be an increase of less than 1%. ( F-3 of agenda packet)
OMC board meeting for 11/ 7/ 18
http://www.olympicmedical.org/pdfs/AGENDA%20-%20November%207%202018.pdf
Agenda highlight: 2019 BUDGET HEARING
o 2019 Operating/Capital Budgets and 2018-2020 Strategic Plan Overview
Eric Lewis, Chief Executive Officer
Darryl Wolfe, Chief Financial Officer
o Public Comment Regarding Proposed 2019 Budget
School board meeting 11/ 8/ 18
PASD Board Meeting 7:00pm
When: Thu, November 8, 7pm – 9pm
Where: Port Angeles School District, 216 E 4th St, Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA (map)
JEFFERSON COUNTY MEETINGS:
Jefferson County Commission meeting for 11/ 5/ 18
https://media.avcaptureall.com/session.html?sessionid=12750010-747b-4523-9b72-3a8aab6105e5&prefilter=845,5958
Agenda highlight: OPEN SPACE TAXATION AGREEMENT re: MLA17-00096/CUA17-00001 Reclassification of 137 Acres in Four (4) Separate Parcels Classified as Forestland and Vacant Land to Open Space/Open Space Under the Current Use Tax Assessment Program RCW 84.34; Parcels are Located Adjacent to the Duckabush River, Brinnon; Applicant, Jefferson Land Trust
CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AGENDA FOR 11/ 5/ 18
http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=1257
Agenda highlight: Ordinance 3210 Fixing and Adopting 2019 Property Tax Levies for the General Levy with a Total Increase of One Percent (1.00%) and for the Emergency Medical Services Levy an Increase of Approximately Two and Three Quarters of a Percent (2.75%) and a Voter-Approved Tax Levy for the Mountain View Commons Capital Improvements of $0.091261 Per $1,000 of Assessed Property Value
Action: Move to approve first reading Ordinance 3210 Fixing and Adopting 2019 Property Tax Levies for the General Levy with a Total Increase of One Percent (1.00%) and for the Emergency Medical Services Levy and Increase of Approximately Two and Three Quarters of a Percent (2.75%) and a Voter-Approved Tax Levy for the Mountain View Commons Capital Improvements of $0.091261 Per $1,000 of Assessed Property Value.
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WEEKLY BIBLE VERSE: [ Submit to Government ] Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.---Romans 13:1 NKJV
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Let me tell you about a plan that is guaranteed to make you rich. And when you obtain this wealth, you can never lose it! Interested?---Gospel Way
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(Join us in worship every Sunday starting at 10:30AM Church of Christ)
👲Riddle Genie
last week's question: How can FIVE minus two equal 4?
Last week's answer: Roman Numerals: FIVE take away F and E which leaves IV which is 4 in Roman Numerals.
New Question: Detective Sara Dunts was called in for an investigation on a Saturday morning. Mr. John Gooding had mysteriously vanished from his one story home, Sara was told. "I'll phone Mrs. Glen, the caretaker, and get you the address." Detective Chad Sandlers, Sara's partner, said. Sara stood waiting as he made the call. "Okay, everything's set. Mrs. Glen will be expecting you in half an hour at 232 Parker At." Detective Chad said.
Sara hopped out of her car and walked up the long path that led to the house. Right away she was ushered inside by Mrs. Glen. "Detective, I'm so glad you came. The last place I saw Mr. Gooding was in his room. I suspected that would be your first question." Mrs. Glen said somewhat nervously. She walked Sara into the other room. "Up here," Mrs. Glen called from a twisting flight of stairs. The front door banged shut just as Sara started up the steps. "Oh, I must have left the door open. The wind must have shut it." Mrs. Glen said. Again they started up the stairs.
They walked up the enormous stairway. Halfway up detective Sara noticed a weather vane through the window. She realized that the wind was blowing west and in order for it to have shut the door it would have to have been blowing east. Then Sara realized for the first time that there was a third set of footsteps on the stairs. Then it dawned on her and she realized she had walked into a trap. How did Sara know she had walked into a trap?
Answer next week: Detective Sara Dunts realized she had walked into a trap when she heard the extra set of footsteps. Hearing the footsteps on the stairs made her remember what her partner had said, "Mr. John Gooding had mysteriously vanished from his one story home." She then realized that this was not Mr. Gooding’s home because at that very moment she realized that she was climbing stairs in a supposedly one story house. Sara immediately called for backup and arrested Mrs. Glen. She then walked down the stairs to find Mr. Gooding near the bottom. The two had planned on kidnapping and killing Sara for putting Mr. Gooding’s niece and Mrs. Glen’s son in jail for murder. Both went to jail to serve their time.
The Port Angeles Globe is a weekly publication, published every Saturday by, Peter Ripley, Publisher.
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