Editorial Comment: Everyone I think wishes he could take back what he or she says in some points in their lives. But, when a typo occurs in a script which a president ends up saying can cause all kinds of drama. Now a president should have checked the script he was going to go by, right off before taking the stage, Trump apparently didn't do that before having the press conference with Putin. He used the word "would" rather than "wouldn't" that started the hornet nest of criticism all over pages of facebook, and other news outlets, and congressional democrats were having a field day over it, along with leftist, and the mainstream media. The following press releases and news articles pretty much reflected what can happen when a president doesn't use his own words, and rely on scripted remarks too much, or teleprompters
Senator Murray Blasts Trump-Putin Summit, Strongly Urges Republicans To Put Country Over Party and Join Democrats to Hold President Trump Accountable July 17 2018
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Assistant Democratic Leader Patty Murray (D-WA) denounced President Trump’s remarks made during his July 16 summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin and called on Republicans to stand with Democrats to hold President Trump accountable for undermining America’s values and interests on the world stage. In a speech on the Senate floor, Senator Murray took President Trump to task for blaming America for foreign attacks on our elections and our democracy and for praising Putin, who has sponsored and supported countless efforts around the globe to destabilize our democracy through the “undemocratic, authoritarian, and repressive rule” of his regime.
Senator Murray urged Republicans to defend the integrity and foundational values of our nation and join Democrats and people around the country to hold President Trump accountable for his “shocking and repeated failures,” calling for Congress to hold hearings on the Trump-Putin summit and receive a record of any notes from their one-on-one meeting. She also laid out five things Republicans could do immediately to condemn President Trump’s action, including: strengthen the sanctions against Russia for its aggression around the world; demand answers from Secretary Pompeo and the other members of the Trump national security team—especially about what the president may have promised Putin during their closed-door meeting—and for them to provide Congress with any notes from the meeting that may exist; stand up for and protect the Department of Justice, the FBI, and the special counsel; insist the president demand the extradition of the 12 Russians indicted for their attacks on our elections; and pass critical election security legislation.
Prior to her floor speech, Senator Murray reiterated her belief in the U.S intelligence community’s assessment that Russia interfered in the 2016 U.S presidential election on behalf of Donald Trump at the direction of President Putin, and blasted President Trump’s reckless rejection of this consensus.
From the press release issued by Sen. Patty Murray dated 7/ 17/ 18
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=2C8464C7-09E4-4D9B-B961-4E204328A451
Remarks by President Trump and President Putin of the Russian Federation in Joint Press Conference
Press release issued by the White House dated 7/ 16/ 18
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-president-putin-russian-federation-joint-press-conference/
Quote that started the liberal media in a frenzy this week, a question from Reuters during the Trump, and Putin press conference: " SANDERS: (Inaudible) goes to Jeff Mason, from Reuters.
Q Thank you. Mr. President, you tweeted this morning that it’s U.S. foolishness, stupidity, and the Mueller probe that is responsible for the decline in U.S. relations with Russia. Do you hold Russia at all accountable for anything in particular? And if so, what would you consider them — that they are responsible for?
PRESIDENT TRUMP: Yes, I do. I hold both countries responsible. I think that the United States has been foolish. I think we’ve all been foolish. We should have had this dialogue a long time ago — a long time, frankly, before I got to office. And I think we’re all to blame. I think that the United States now has stepped forward, along with Russia. And we’re getting together. And we have a chance to do some great things, whether it’s nuclear proliferation, in terms of stopping — because we have to do it. Ultimately, that’s probably the most important thing that we can be working on.
But I do feel that we have both made some mistakes. I think that the probe is a disaster for our country. I think it’s kept us apart. It’s kept us separated. There was no collusion at all. Everybody knows it. People are being brought out to the fore.
So far, that I know, virtually none of it related to the campaign. And they’re going to have try really hard to find somebody that did relate to the campaign. That was a clean campaign. I beat Hillary Clinton easily. And frankly, we beat her — and I’m not even saying from the standpoint — we won that race. And it’s a shame that there can even be a little bit of a cloud over it.
People know that. People understand it. But the main thing, and we discussed this also, is zero collusion. And it has had a negative impact upon the relationship of the two largest nuclear powers in the world. We have 90 percent of nuclear power between the two countries. It’s ridiculous. It’s ridiculous what’s going on with the probe.
Q For President Putin, if I could follow up as well. Why should Americans and why should President Trump believe your statement that Russia did not intervene in the 2016 election, given the evidence that U.S. intelligence agencies have provided? And will you consider extraditing the 12 Russian officials that were indicted last week by a U.S. grand jury?
PRESIDENT TRUMP: Well, I’m going to let the President answer the second part of that question. But, as you know, the whole concept of that came up perhaps a little bit before, but it came out as a reason why the Democrats lost an election — which, frankly, they should have been able to win, because the Electoral College is much more advantageous for Democrats, as you know, than it is to Republicans.
We won the Electoral College by a lot — 306 to 223, I believe. And that was a well-fought — that was a well-fought battle. We did a great job.
And, frankly, I’m going to let the President speak to the second part of your question. But just to say it one time again, and I say it all the time: There was no collusion. I didn’t know the President. There was nobody to collude with. There was no collusion with the campaign. And every time you hear all of these — you know, 12 and 14 — it’s stuff that has nothing to do — and frankly, they admit, these are not people involved in the campaign.
But to the average reader out there, they’re saying, “Well, maybe that does.” It doesn’t. And even the people involved, some perhaps told mis-stories or, in one case, the FBI said there was no lie. There was no lie. Somebody else said there was.
We ran a brilliant campaign, and that’s why I’m President. Thank you.
PRESIDENT PUTIN: (As interpreted). As to who is to be believed and to who is not to be believed, you can trust no one, if you take this. Where did you get this idea that President Trump trusts me or I trust him? He defends the interests of the United States of America, and I do defend the interests of the Russian Federation.
We do have interests that are common. We are looking for points of contact. There are issues where our postures diverge, and we are looking for ways to reconcile our differences; how to make our effort more meaningful.
We should not proceed from the immediate political interests that guide certain political powers in our countries. We should be guided by facts. Can you name a single fact that would definitively prove the collusion? This is utter nonsense.
Just like the President recently mentioned — yes, the public at large in the United States had a certain perceived opinion of the candidates during the campaign, but there’s nothing particularly extraordinary about it. That’s the usual thing.
President Trump, when he was a candidate, he mentioned the need to restore the Russia-U.S. relationship, and it’s clear that a certain part of American society felt sympathetic about it, and different people could express their sympathy in different ways. But isn’t that natural? Isn’t it natural to be sympathetic towards a person who is willing to restore the relationship with our country, who wants to work with us?
We heard the accusations about the Concord country [sic]. Well, as far as I know, this company hired American lawyers. And the accusations doesn’t — doesn’t have a fighting chance in the American courts. So there’s no evidence when it comes to the actual facts. So we have to be guided by facts and not by rumors.
Now, let’s get back to the issue of these 12 alleged intelligence officers of Russia. I don’t know the full extent of the situation, but President Trump mentioned this issue, and I will look into it.
So far, I can say the following, the things that — off the top of my head: We have an acting — an existing agreement between the United States of America and the Russian Federation, an existing treaty that dates back to 1999, the Mutual Assistance on Criminal Cases. This treaty is in full effect. It works quite efficiently.
On average, we initiate about 100, 150 criminal cases upon request from foreign states. For instance, the last year, there was one extradition case, upon the request, sent by the United States. So this treaty has specific legal procedures.
We can offer that the appropriate commission headed by Special Attorney Mueller — he can use this treaty as a solid foundation, and send a formal, an official request to us so that we would interrogate — we would hold the questioning of these individuals who he believes are privy to some crimes. And our law enforcement are perfectly able to do this questioning and send the appropriate materials to the United States.
Moreover, we can meet you halfway; we can make another step. We can actually permit official representatives of the United States, including the members of this very commission headed by Mr. Mueller — we can let them into the country and they will be present at this questioning.
But in this case, there is another condition. This kind of effort should be a mutual one. Then we would expect that the Americans would reciprocate and they would question officials, including the officers of law enforcement and intelligence services of the United States whom we believe are — who have something to do with illegal actions on the territory of Russia, and we have to request the presence of our law enforcement.
For instance, we can bring up Mr. Browder in this particular case. Business associates of Mr. Browder have earned over $1.5 billion in Russia. They never paid any taxes, neither in Russia nor in the United States, and yet the money escaped the country. They were transferred to the United States. They sent a huge amount of money — $400 million — as a contribution to the campaign of Hillary Clinton. Well, that’s their personal case. It might have been legal, the contribution itself, but the way the money was earned was illegal.
So we have a solid reason to believe that some intelligence officers accompanied and guided these transactions. So we have an interest of questioning them. That could be a first step, and we can also extend it. Options abound, and they all can be found in an appropriate legal framework."
President Donald J. Trump is Protecting Our Elections and Standing Up to Russia’s Malign Activities---White House fact sheet issued 7/ 17/ 18
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/president-donald-j-trump-protecting-elections-standing-russias-malign-activities/
PROTECTING AMERICAN ELECTIONS: President Donald J. Trump and his Administration are defending the integrity of our election system.
From the beginning of his Administration, President Trump has taken action to defend our election system from meddling and interference.
In May 2017, President Trump signed an Executive Order to strengthen and review the cybersecurity of our Nation and its critical infrastructure.
This has included long-delayed modernization of our cyber security systems across the Government.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has taken the lead in working with all 50 states, local governments, and private companies to improve election security and integrity.
Under President Trump, DHS has increased coordination and information sharing among all election partners, with nearly 1000 elections jurisdictions, including all 50 states, participating in the Election Infrastructure Information Sharing and Analysis Center.
34 States, 52 county or local governments, and 5 election companies receive cyber security scans from DHS, free of charge, on an ongoing basis.
DHS plans to provide on-site risk and vulnerability assessments to all States that request. Currently 18 States have requested this assessment and 16 are completed for the 2018 election cycle.
A new pilot program was launched to share information between State and local officials and the Election Assistance Commission to allow for rapid response on Election Day.
During the 2017 elections, the Trump Administration provided on-site cybersecurity support to States.
In March of 2018, Congress provided the Election Assistance Commission with $380 million in funding for election assistance grants to States.
While increasing our election security, the Trump Administration is also combatting actors that have already attempted to harm our election integrity.
In March 2018, the Administration imposed sanctions against 16 Russian entities and individuals for their roles in Russian interference in the 2016 Presidential election.
CONFRONTING RUSSIAN INFLUENCE IN THE UNITED STATES: President Trump has taken action to call out and confront Russian efforts that undermine the United States.
In March 2018, President Trump ordered the expulsion of 48 Russian intelligence officers from the United States and ordered the closure of the Russian consulate in Seattle, Washington.
This action was taken in coordination with American allies around the world in response to Russia’s use of a military-grade chemical weapon in the United Kingdom.
In March 2018, President Trump also expelled 12 Russian intelligence officers from the Russian Mission to the United Nations in New York for abusing their privilege of residence.
In September 2017, the Administration banned the use of Kaspersky Labs software on United States Government computers due to Kaspersky’s ties to Russian intelligence.
In March 2017, the Administration charged 3 Russians for the 2014 Yahoo hack, including 2 officers of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB).
The Trump Administration has maintained the closure of 2 Russian compounds and the expulsion of 35 diplomats in response to Russian interference in the 2016 election.
REINFORCING A STRONG SANCTIONS REGIME ON RUSSIA: The Administration has imposed the toughest sanctions against Russia to confront its destabilizing behavior.
President Trump’s Administration has consistently confronted Russian activities that threaten our institutions, our interests, or our allies.
In June 2018, President Trump’s Administration imposed sanctions against 5 Russian entities and 3 Russian individuals for enabling Russia’s military and intelligence units to increase Russia’s offensive cyber capabilities.
In April 2018, the Administration imposed sanctions against 7 Russian oligarchs and the 12 companies they own or control, 17 senior Russian government officials, and a state-owned Russian weapons trading company and a bank it owns.
These sanctions ensure the Russian oligarchs who profit from Russia’s destabilizing activities face the consequences for doing so.
The sanctioned state-owned weapons trading company provides military equipment and support to the Government of Syria, enabling the regime’s continual attacks against Syrian citizens.
In February 2018, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network proposed a new rule to bar a Latvian bank involved in illicit Russia-related activity from opening or maintaining correspondent accounts in the United States.
In December 2017, new Russia-related sanctions were announced under the Sergei Magnitsky and Global Magnitsky programs.
In December 2017, the Administration imposed export controls against 2 Russian companies that were helping Russia develop missiles that violate the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF).
The Trump Administration sanctioned a total of 100 targets in response to Russia’s ongoing occupation of Crimea and aggression in Eastern Ukraine.
The Trump Administration has also designated Russian actors under Iran and North Korea sanctions authorities.
CONFRONTING RUSSIAN AGGRESSION: The President is strengthening our alliances and standing up to Russia’s malign influence across the globe.
The Trump Administration released a National Security Strategy that makes clear that Russia is undertaking actions that threaten our security and outlines steps to stop their interference.
The Trump Administration has increased funding for the European Deterrence Initiative, providing billions to increase United States troop readiness in Europe, deter Russian aggression, and help defend our NATO allies.
The Trump Administration has enhanced its support for Ukraine’s Armed Forces to help Ukraine improve its ability to defend itself.
The Trump Administration is working to pressure Russia back into compliance with the INF Treaty to ensure that Russia does not gain strategic advantage from its treaty violations.
Related news stories..
This Is the Moment of Truth for Republicans
The GOP can either defend the United States or serve the damaged and defective man who is now its president.---The Atlantic
Quote: " Either Donald Trump is flat-out an agent of Russian interests—maybe witting, maybe unwitting, from fear of blackmail, in hope of future deals, out of manly respect for Vladimir Putin, out of gratitude for Russia’s help during the election, out of pathetic inability to see beyond his 306 electoral votes. Whatever the exact mixture of motives might be, it doesn’t really matter."
https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2018/07/moment-of-decision/565289/?utm_source=atlfb_test209_3
The Daily 202: Russia imbroglio deepens the disconnect between Trump and his own administration
THE BIG IDEA: President Trump found himself at odds on Wednesday with his own people who work at Foggy Bottom, Fort Meade, Langley, the Pentagon and the brutalist J. Edgar Hoover Building.---Washington Post
Trump Corrects Summit Remark About Believing Putin on Election Meddling
WASHINGTON -- President Trump today walked back one of his remarks made during Monday's Helsinki press conference with Russian President Vladimir Putin -- a scripted correction drafted with the help of national security principals at an unscheduled White House meeting amid fallout from the majority of Republicans on Capitol Hill.---PJ MEDIA
Our 'America First' President Put America Last in Helsinki
America’s child president had a playdate with a KGB alumnus, who surely enjoyed providing daycare. It was a useful, because illuminating, event: Now we shall see how many Republicans retain a capacity for embarrassment.---PATRIOT POST
POLL: Vast Majority of Republican Voters Unbothered by Trump’s Helsinki Press Conference
An overwhelming majority of Republican voters approved of President Trump’s performance during his joint press conference with Vladimir Putin Monday, according to an Axios/Survey Monkey poll released Thursday.---The National Review
WORLD NEWS HEADLINES FROM THE UN NEWS CENTER & OTHER SOURCES....
Briefing Security Council, Special Representative Calls African Union Key Partner to Organization, Underlines Importance of Financing for Peace Support Operations
The complex peace and security issues facing Africa are such that neither the United Nations, nor the African Union can address the challenges on their own, the Security Council was told today as it received its annual briefing on strengthening cooperation between the two organizations.---UN Press Release issued 7/ 18/ 18
https://www.un.org/press/en/2018/sc13428.doc.htm
UNHCR welcomes deal to end latest migrant stand-off in Mediterranean Sea
UN Refugee Agency chief Filippo Grandi, on Thursday gave a cautious welcome to the decision by several EU countries to take in some 450 migrants who have been stranded at sea for days, warning that a “ship-by-ship” arrangement was not sustainable.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/07/1015102
‘Embed the essence of 2030 Agenda into everything,’ UN chief urges at close of Global Goals forum
As the eight-day High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) drew to a close on Wednesday, the United Nations chief called on everyone to support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development for “prosperity and peace on a healthy planet.”
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/07/1015092
US MISSION TO THE UN: Remarks at the 2018 High-Level Political Forum
Quote: " Today we are seeing an expansion of technology in the developing world which is altering the reality of what is possible. Traditional official development assistance is increasingly reinforced by private sector engagement, domestic resource mobilization, financial flows and enhanced commerce and investment, all of which promise to increase developing countries’ self-reliance. Perhaps the most monumental change is the enhanced relationship between the private and public sector.
We have many examples in the United States of the private sector’s pivotal role as a catalyst for growth and resilience. We have initiatives across the U.S. to support cities and communities in empowering residents; public-private partnerships are key to advancing many of the challenges facing our communities. The Low Income Housing Tax Credit program for example is the U.S. Federal Government’s primary program for encouraging the investment of private equity in the development of affordable rental housing for low-income households." ----Jason Lawrence, Adviser for Economic and Social Affairs
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8521
US STATE DEPT: Secretary Pompeo To Deliver Remarks on "Supporting Iranian Voices"
On Sunday, July 22, Secretary Pompeo will deliver remarks on "Supporting Iranian Voices" at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Center for Public Affairs. His remarks will be delivered at 6:00 p.m. PDT / 9:00 p.m. EDT as part of a visit with members of the Iranian-American community in the United States.
https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2018/07/284024.htm
PAGE 2
From the Clean Air Act, to Efforts to Combat Climate Change, to Long-Standing Chevron Deference, Senator Murray Highlights the Environmental Protections At Risk if the Supreme Court Swings Right with President Trump’s Extreme Nominee---Sen. Patty Murray press release issued 7/ 18/ 18
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=3042F16D-063C-4DD3-98B1-E6D594FD3A0F
Washington, D.C.) – Today, in a wide-ranging speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) spent several minutes highlighting the troubling record of President Trump’s extreme Supreme Court nominee and what his confirmation could mean for our nation’s bedrock environmental laws. Judge Brett Kavanaugh, who currently sits on the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, has openly opposed the U.S. Supreme Court’s Chevron deference standard that has long allowed experts and non-partisan professionals to make critical regulatory decisions, rather than the courts. Overturning the Chevron deference standard would be a radical change in terms of who has the final word on environmental protections.
In her speech, Senator Murray made clear that Judge Kavanaugh’s stance “could take decisions away from our nation’s scientists and non-partisan professionals, and put those decisions into the hands of special interests.”
Senator Murray also underscored concerns about the future of the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, as well as efforts to combat climate change should Judge Kavanaugh be confirmed to our nation’s highest court. Judge Kavanaugh wrote the opinion for the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia that struck down what’s known as the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule, an EPA rule meant to reduce air pollution from power plants and other facilities in downwind states.
“You don’t have to spend long looking at Judge Kavanaugh’s record to see that should he be seated, nearly five decades of environmental protection are at risk— including the protections enshrined in the Clean Air Act, which has significantly cut the smog, smoot, and chemicals that choked communities across the country prior to 1970 and prevented hundreds of thousands of premature deaths and cases of heart disease in the years since,” Senator Murray said. “Also at risk: the Clean Water Act, which, if erased, would take us back to the bad old days before common sense protections. When the Cuyahoga River was so polluted it caught fire. When shellfish beds were closed in Puget Sound, nearly decimated by pollutants. Or when an estimated 20 million gallons of sewage effluent flowed into Lake Washington – every single day."
NATIONAL HEADLINES...
Statement from the Press Secretary on H.R. 5105/S. 2463, the Better Utilization of Investments Leading to Development (BUILD) Act of 2018---Press release from The White House dated 7/ 17/ 18
The Administration supports H.R. 5105/S. 2463, the “Better Utilization of Investments Leading to Development (BUILD) Act of 2018,” which would consolidate the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) and other development-finance programs into a reformed United States International Development Finance Corporation (USDFC).
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/statement-press-secretary-h-r-5105-s-2463-better-utilization-investments-leading-development-build-act-2018/
DOD: Iraqi, Kurdish Troops Clear ISIS Safe Haven
SOUTHWEST ASIA --
Iraqi forces, including peshmerga troops, conducted coordinated clearance operations July 16 to eliminate the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria presence in Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials announced today.
https://www.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1576431/iraqi-kurdish-troops-clear-isis-safe-haven/
DOD: Air Force Recruiters Learn About Innovations for Next-Gen Special Ops Airmen
WASHINGTON --
For the first time in the Defense Department, a series of career field specialties is using human performance monitoring and a data collection system, as well as specialized recruiters.
https://www.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1577810/air-force-recruiters-learn-about-innovations-for-next-gen-special-ops-airmen/
DOJ: Creator Of “Fitwall” Exercise Equipment Pleads Guilty To Failing To File Income Tax Returns And Health Care Benefits Fraud
WASHINGTON - A resident of Cheyenne, Wyoming and creator of “Fitwall” exercise equipment pleaded guilty today to two counts of willfully failing to file his income tax returns and one count of making a fraudulent application for health care benefits. The change of plea was announced by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Mark A. Klaassen for the District of Wyoming, whose offices are engaged in a joint prosecution of this case.
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/creator-fitwall-exercise-equipment-pleads-guilty-failing-file-income-tax-returns-and-health
US DEPT. OF INTERIOR: Interior Announces Region-wide Oil and Gas Lease Sale for Gulf of Mexico
WASHINGTON – In support of President Donald J. Trump's America-First Offshore Energy Strategy, Deputy Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt announced that the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) will offer approximately 78 million acres offshore Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida for oil and gas exploration and development. The region-wide lease sale scheduled for Aug. 15, 2018, includes all available unleashed areas in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/interior-announces-region-wide-oil-and-gas-lease-sale-gulf-mexico
PAGE 3
Evaluating the Macro Impact of the Affordable Housing Crisis, Cantwell, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Create Affordable Housing Task Force
Press release issued by Sen. Cantwell dated 7/ 18/ 18
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/evaluating-the-macro-impact-of-the-affordable-housing-crisis-cantwell-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-create-affordable-housing-task-force
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-IN), and a bipartisan group of their Senate colleagues introduced the Task Force on the Impact of the Affordable Housing Crisis Act, which seeks to better understand and respond to America’s housing crisis by creating a bipartisan affordable housing task force.
“This year we were able to boost the Low Income Housing Tax Credit, which has built 90 percent of affordable housing in our country,” Senator Cantwell said. “More needs to be done to get to the root causes of the affordable housing crisis and show that LIHTC is cost-effective and creates jobs.”
“As I travel throughout Indiana, I consistently hear about the need for more affordable housing,” said Senator Young. “It’s clear that we need a better understanding of this crisis in order to make the policy changes necessary to help families succeed. Our bill would bring together a group of experts to evaluate the affordable housing crisis and identify solutions to help lift up millions of struggling individuals.”
For millions of Americans, a lack of affordable housing has profound, negative, and lasting consequences. Research shows that an inability to access safe and affordable homes jeopardizes educational performance and economic mobility, and leaves families with fewer dollars to spend on health care, groceries, and other important expenses – further trapping families in the cycle of poverty.
In order to solve the housing crisis, we need a better understanding of its impact on other government programs and areas of life. The affordable housing task force will evaluate and quantify the impact of housing costs on other government programs and provide recommendations to Congress about how to increase affordable housing options in order to improve the effectiveness of other federal programs, ranging from education to health care.
From 2005 to 2015, more than 9 million new renters joined the market – the largest increase on record. While a historic number of renters enter into the market, affordable housing options continue to dwindle. Over the next decade, more than a million affordable housing properties will exit the market, including nearly 500,000 LIHTC units. This increased supply and shrinking demand has resulted in a significant deficit of affordable housing. Currently there is a nationwide shortage of 7.2 million affordable rental homes, a significant increase from the 4.4 million gap in 2000, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition.
In Washington state, the affordable housing crisis is even worse. According to Census data, since 2010, median rents have risen by 19.7 percent – almost 7 percentage points higher than the rest of the country. Currently, almost 50 percent of Washington state renters are cost burdened, spending over 30 percent of their income on rent, and there are only 29 affordable and available homes for every 100 extremely low income families (defined as a family of 4 making about $26,000 annually).
Cantwell has long prioritized affordable housing in her work in the Senate. In March 2018, Senator Cantwell secured a 12.5% increase in the Low Income Housing Tax Credit over the next four years – the first increase in over a decade. This expansion will allow Washington state to build 20% more LIHTC-financed affordable housing developments in 2018 alone. As part of this effort, Cantwell has worked with more than 2,200 national, state, and local affordable housing advocates – known as the ACTION Campaign – and visited affordable housing developments at events in Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, Vancouver, Walla Walla, Longview, Kent, Bremerton, Bellingham, Portland, New York City, and Salt Lake City.
The task force created by today’s legislation would:
Evaluate and quantify the impact that a lack of affordable housing has on other areas of life and life outcomes for individuals living in the United States, including education, employment, income level, health, nutrition, access to transportation, and poverty level in the neighborhood in which individuals live.
Evaluate and quantify the costs incurred by other federal, state, and local programs due to a lack of affordable housing.
Make recommendations to Congress on how to use affordable housing to improve the effectiveness of other federal programs and improve life outcomes for individuals living in the United States.
More national headlines...
US DEPT. OF EDUCATION BLOG: The Many Roads to Becoming a Spelling Bee Champion
At age 13, our son Aren can’t cross the street by himself, or eat without dropping food all over the floor. He struggles with reading and has difficulty following simple instructions. He also has a speech impairment called cluttering that often makes his speech incomprehensible to others. On top of this, he is hyperactive and needs to burn off his immense energy frequently throughout the day.
https://blog.ed.gov/2018/07/the-many-roads-to-becoming-a-spelling-bee-champion/
HUD APPROVES AGREEMENT WITH MOBILE HOUSING BOARD RESOLVING CLAIMS OF DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION
Agreement also focuses on use of Housing Choice Voucher program and hiring of low-income residents for HUD-Funded projects
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced today that it has approved a Voluntary Compliance/Conciliation Agreement between Mobile Housing Board (MHB), in Mobile, AL, and a woman with disabilities. The agreement resolves allegations that the Board denied the woman’s request for a Housing Choice Voucher.
https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_18_073
HUD AND CENSUS BUREAU REPORT RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY IN JUNE 2018
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Census Bureau jointly announced the following new residential construction statistics for June 2018.
https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_18_072
HUD AND COUNCIL ON FOUNDATIONS ANNOUNCE WINNERS OF SECRETARY'S AWARD FOR PUBLIC-PHILANTHROPIC PARTNERSHIPS
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Council on Foundations today announced the 2018 winners of the Secretary's Award for Public-Philanthropic Partnerships. The awards recognize exemplary partnerships between foundations and government that have been critical in transforming communities and improving lives.
https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_18_069
EPA Finalizes Last 2015 Ozone Designations for 8 Counties in Texas This Action Completes Designations Process for 2015 Ozone Standard
DALLAS – (July 18, 2018) On July 17, 2018, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) completed area designations for the 2015 ozone standards by designating eight counties in the San Antonio, Texas metropolitan area. EPA has designated seven of the eight counties in the San Antonio area, including Atascosa, Bandera, Comal, Guadalupe, Kendall, Medina, and Wilson, as attainment/unclassifiable for the 2015 standard. Based on data from EPA-approved air quality monitors, EPA has designated Bexar County as nonattainment. These designations will take effect 60 days after the notice summarizing this action is published in the Federal Register.
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-finalizes-last-2015-ozone-designations-8-counties-texas-action-completes
PAGE 4
Cantwell Calls For Investments In Recycling To Secure Critical Mineral Supply Ranking Member Presses U.S. Advantage in R&D.
Press release issued 7/ 17/ 18
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-calls-for-investments-in-recycling-to-secure-critical-mineral-supply-
Washington, D.C. – Today, in a hearing to examine critical minerals security, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-WA) called for greater investments in research and development to advance scalable solutions for critical minerals recycling.
Senator Cantwell asked “In the global market, tight supplies can sometimes push the innovation we were just discussing…and recycling can help us particularly with alternative minerals. What should we be doing to fortify for the future?” Dr. Eggert, Viola Vestal Coulter Foundation Chair in Mineral Economics at the Colorado School of Mines and Deputy Director of the Critical Materials Institute at the Department of Energy, responded “There’s already significant recycling of many of the major metals… [but] much less recycling of the specialty metals, the rare earths, the lithiums, the niobiums of the world...Now’s the time to be thinking about collection systems, sorting systems, and processing technologies.”
“Instead of waiting for the market to play that role, let us get started in playing that role,” said Senator Cantwell. “The strength of the United States from a competitive perspective is our R&D and our ability to take that R&D and show a scalable solution.”
BUSINESS & FINANCE HEADLINES...
Tariffs Would Be a Dangerous U-Turn for U.S. Auto Sector
The administration is convening a hearing on July 19 to consider tariffs nobody wants. Specifically, the Commerce Department is investigating whether imports of automobiles and auto parts “threaten to impair the national security.” In the event of an affirmative determination in this investigation, White House officials are reportedly considering applying tariffs of 20% to 25% to approximately $350 billion of imported autos and auto parts.----US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
https://www.uschamber.com/series/above-the-fold/tariffs-would-be-dangerous-u-turn-us-auto-sector
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ANNOUNCES GRANT TO HELP WOMEN ENTER APPRENTICESHIPS, EXPAND JOB OPPORTUNITIES
WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of Labor announced the availability of funding to help recruit, train, and retain more women in quality pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, and pursue careers in manufacturing, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and healthcare, among other industries. The Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations (WANTO) grant helps to expand pathways for women to enter in, and lead in, all industries.
https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/wb/wb20180717
Tax Security 101 – Security Summit outlines ‘Security Six’ basic safeguards for tax professionals’ computers and email
WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service and the Security Summit partners outlined critical steps for tax professionals to protect their computers and email as well as safeguarding sensitive taxpayer data.
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-security-101-security-summit-outlines-security-six-basic-safeguards-for-tax-professionals-computers-and-email
FTC and States Combat Fraudulent Charities That Falsely Claim to Help Veterans and Servicemembers
The Federal Trade Commission, along with law enforcement officials and charity regulators from 70 offices in every state, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam and Puerto Rico, announced more than 100 actions and a consumer education initiative in “Operation Donate with Honor,” a crackdown on fraudulent charities that con consumers by falsely promising their donations will help veterans and servicemembers.
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2018/07/ftc-states-combat-fraudulent-charities-falsely-claim-help
NIFA-Funded Research Aims to Keep Bees on the Job
Bee populations in North America have been in decline since the 1940s. This is of great concern to the agriculture industry because about 75 percent of specialty crops depend on the services of pollinators – of which bees are the most economically important.---USDA BLOG
https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2018/07/17/nifa-funded-research-aims-keep-bees-job
PAGE 5
AG FERGUSON CRACKS DOWN ON TWO VETERANS’ CHARITIES FOR MISLEADING WASHINGTON DONORS
Press release issued 7/ 19/ 18
https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-cracks-down-two-veterans-charities-misleading-washington-donors
OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson today announced a crackdown on three deceptive charities that claimed to benefit veterans. These organizations told potential donors that their donations would benefit veterans when, in fact, little to none of the money raised did.
Today’s sweep includes two lawsuits filed by Ferguson: one against Spanaway-based Fallen Hero Bracelets and another against Florida nonprofit Healing Heroes Network. The lawsuits allege these organizations violated the Consumer Protection Act, which prohibits unfair or deceptive conduct in the marketplace, and the Charitable Solicitations Act, which prohibits false, misleading or deceptive charitable solicitations.
“These organizations used the promise of improving veterans’ lives to mislead donors,” Ferguson said. “Their illegal actions are not only disrespectful to donors, but also to the veterans they claim to help.”
The actions are part of Operation Donate with Honor, a nationwide sweep coordinated by the Federal Trade Commission and the National Association of State Charities Officials. Ferguson and Washington Secretary of State Kim Wyman joined officials from around the country to combat veterans’ fundraising fraud through education and enforcement.
The actions are also part of the Military and Veterans Initiative, Ferguson’s longtime effort to support and educate military service members and veterans about their rights and the resources available to them.
Fallen Hero Bracelets
Ferguson sued Spanaway-based Fallen Hero Bracelets and its director, Michael Friedmann, alleging that they misled customers into believing their purchases were benefiting veterans’ charities. In reality, his nonprofit has provided no funds to any such organization.Example of bracelet sold by Fallen Hero Bracelets
Fallen Hero Bracelets sells bracelets engraved with names of soldiers killed in action, along with hats, pins, badges, coins and pens. Its website claims that the proceeds from these purchases will be used to help veterans, including providing scholarships to children of soldiers killed in Iraq or Afghanistan, giving trained service dogs to soldiers suffering from severe PTSD and helping families dealing with separation and divorce. The website lists 40 organizations that it says benefit from sales.
The website claims that Fallen Hero Bracelets has made over 1.2 million sales worldwide.
Friedmann also uses websites for his other nonprofit, The Benjamin Foundation, also doing business as The Roberts Ridge Foundation, to make the same claims.
However, Fallen Hero Bracelets allegedly has not provided any scholarships, trained service dogs or assistance to families, nor has it given any money to any of its 40 claimed beneficiaries.
In addition to not providing any money to charity, Friedmann has been known to sue customers who complain about slow delivery. For example, a consumer in Washington bought a $40 t-shirt on Friedmann’s website. When she did not receive her purchase for more than 60 days, she complained to her credit union. Her credit union then sent a chargeback notice to Friedmann.
Friedmann eventually sent the shirt. The consumer returned it, wanting her money back. Next, Friedmann reported the customer to four different collection agencies, which promptly dropped the collection efforts after the consumer showed proof of the return. He then sued the consumer for $1,182.50 and the credit union for $5,000 in small claims court.
The Attorney General’s Office received 11 complaints concerning Fallen Hero Bracelets, almost all of which referenced the same conduct by Friedmann: delivery delays, being unable to contact Friedmann regarding order status and harassment as a result of consumers complaining or returning items.
In correspondence with customers, Friedmann calls himself the “chief legal officer” of his nonprofit. He is not and never has been an attorney.
Friedmann uses an emblem similar to that used by the well-known Better Business Bureau, claiming that Fallen Hero Bracelets is accredited and has an A+ rating from the Business Bureau of America. The Business Bureau of America does not appear to exist. Fallen Hero Bracelets is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has an F rating.
Ferguson’s lawsuit, filed in Pierce County Superior Court, alleges Friedmann violated the Consumer Protection Act and Charitable Solicitations Act by failing to benefit veterans as claimed by the Fallen Hero Bracelets website and by retaliating against and suing aggrieved consumers. Ferguson asks the court to require Fallen Hero Bracelets to end its deceptive conduct, provide restitution to affected consumers, impose penalties of up to $2,000 per violation and pay attorney costs and fees.
Healing Heroes Network
Ferguson filed a separate lawsuit against Florida-based Healing Heroes Network, also known as the Injured American Veterans Foundation, and its directors, Stacey Spiegel and Allan Spiegel, for misleading donors. The organization promised to use donations to help veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan receive medical treatments that the Department of Veterans Affairs does not readily provide. The organization raised around $20 million nationally in the nearly 10 years it operated.
Despite more than $2.5 million in revenues in both 2016 and 2017, the organization spent less than 1 percent of its revenue on direct services to wounded veterans in those years.
Almost 4,000 Washingtonians donated more than $100,000 to Healing Heroes Network from 2015 to 2017 through its telemarketing alone. Another nearly 3,800 Washingtonians donated through Healing Heroes Network’s sweepstakes promotion over the same time period.
The sweepstakes promotions implied that the recipient won over $10,000 and only needed to send back the form to claim the prize. The form included a request for a donation. For several years, Healing Heroes Network sent out hundreds of thousands of these letters annually to consumers across the country. Every month, one consumer won $100, with the request that the consumer donate the money back to Healing Heroes Network. Only two people won the grand prize over the course of the sweepstakes promotions.
Healing Heroes Network also sold merchandise, including decals and t-shirts. It sold much of the merchandise through its website, HeroGiveaways.com. Net revenue from merchandise alone accounted for more than $700,000 in 2017. That same year, only $19,409 went toward grants and assistance to veterans.
The Florida-based organization dissolved in December 2017 after learning of the state’s investigation. However, executive director Stacey Spiegel immediately formed a new, similar business under the Hero Giveaways name. With the help of her son, Neal Spiegel, she continued selling t-shirts and stickers from HeroGiveaways.com, still claiming that proceeds would benefit wounded veterans.
In fact, the suit alleges, Stacey Spiegel’s new operation was a for-profit business that has given nothing to wounded veterans or any other charity.
The lawsuit, filed in King County Superior Court, alleges the defendants violated the Charitable Solicitations Act and the Consumer Protection Act by misleading donors with claims that donations or purchases would go to treat wounded veterans, when very little actually did. The lawsuit asks the court to require Healing Heroes Network to end its deceptive conduct and provide restitution to consumers affected by the Spiegels’ conduct or designate the money for legitimate veterans’ charities. Additionally, Ferguson requests penalties of up to $2,000 per violation and payment of attorney costs and fees.
Operation Donate with Honor
The lawsuits are part of Operation Donate with Honor, a nationwide effort against veterans’ fundraising fraud coordinated by the Federal Trade Commission and the National Association of State Charities Officials. Attorneys General and other state agencies from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and American Samoa are joining the project by leading more than 100 education and enforcement efforts.
Scammers can use charities to prey on generosity. Do plenty of research before donating money. To make sure a charity is legitimate:
Ask for detailed information about the organization, including an address, phone number and name. Ask the organization what percentage of donations benefit the actual cause.
In other state related news...
ATTORNEY GENERAL FERGUSON ISSUES ADVISORY AFFIRMING LABOR RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS IN PUBLIC WORKPLACES
https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/attorney-general-ferguson-issues-advisory-affirming-labor-rights-and-obligations
Commerce awards $39 million to increase facilities for behavioral health care statewide
OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington State Department of Commerce today announced $39 million in grants to 18 health care providers across Washington, adding needed spaces to help people with a wide variety of behavioral health issues. These grant funds will help create 341 additional beds, including providing safe places for people to stay upon discharge from the state’s two psychiatric hospitals.
https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/community-programs-facilities/commerce-awards-39-million-to-increase-facilities-for-behavioral-health-care-statewide/
Washington State wins 2 out of 11 grants from HUD for youth homelessness programs, totaling $7 million
In case you missed it, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced $43 million in grants to help end youth homelessness, and $7 million is coming to Washington state. Our state’s bold leadership and innovative approaches were rewarded for the second consecutive year, with two of just 11 grants awarded nationwide coming here. Last year, King County received one of the limited number of annual awards from the Youth Homeless Demonstration Program to support a range of housing interventions.
https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/community-programs-facilities/washington-state-wins-2-out-of-11-grants-from-hud-for-youth-homelessness-programs-totaling-7-million/
DOE BLOG: Water quality standards update, Proposed changes could better protect human health and the environment.
This time of year, most of us can’t wait to get into or on the water. Our state water quality standards are in place to make sure we can safely swim and boat in our waterbodies. Historically, we’ve kept Washington waters clean by measuring the presence of fecal coliform bacteria at beaches, lakes, rivers and streams. Fecal coliform has been used as an indicator of contaminants that can make us sick, like viruses and parasites.
https://ecologywa.blogspot.com/2018/07/water-quality-standards-update.html
Labor market strengthened further in June
OLYMPIA – Washington’s economy added 4,100 jobs in June and the state’s seasonally adjusted monthly unemployment rate for June was 4.7 percent according to the Employment Security Department. The June unemployment rate was unchanged from May 2018 unemployment rate of 4.7 percent.
https://esd.wa.gov/newsroom/labor-market-strengthened-further-in-june
PAGE 6
Edmonds asbestos removal company fined more than a quarter-million dollars for exposing workers and the public to unsafe conditions---Labor & Industries press release dated 7/ 16/ 18
http://lni.wa.gov/News/2018/pr180716a.asp
Tumwater – An Edmonds-based asbestos removal contractor has been cited by the Washington Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) for multiple willful safety violations for improper handling of asbestos. Along with the citations, the company faces fines totaling $229,700.
L&I has cited Above & Beyond Asbestos Removal in connection with two separate inspections. Along with citing and fining a company, L&I may also decertify an asbestos contractor for multiple willful violations. This company is under review.
"This company has demonstrated a continuous indifference to Washington's asbestos handling rules which protect workers and the public from harm," said Anne Soiza, L&I's assistant director for the Division of Occupational Safety and Health. "This fine delivers a clear message that asbestos is a deadly hazard and we won't tolerate any company that doesn't follow the rules to keep the public and workers safe."
Asbestos is extremely hazardous and can cause potentially fatal diseases like asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer. Only a certified abatement contractor that follows the specific asbestos related safety and health rules may remove and dispose of asbestos-containing building materials.
The two recent inspections of Above & Beyond each uncovered several similar violations. One worksite involved the emergency removal of boiler insulation in a Seattle apartment complex, and the other concerned the removal of asbestos popcorn ceiling material in a single-family residence.
In both cases, the workers did not use proper safety equipment, required air sampling was not performed, and asbestos-containing material was left exposed to the public and was improperly taken through public areas. Asbestos-containing dust can harm both workers and the public until it is eliminated.
The two inspections resulted in multiple willful and serious violations. A willful violation is one where L&I finds evidence of plain indifference or an intentional disregard to a hazard or rule.
Above & Beyond has been cited in the past for similar violations and has been identified by L&I as a severe violator — a designation that carries consequences, such as follow-up inspections at any of their facilities or sites that could have similar hazards.
The employer has 15 business days to appeal the citations.
Penalty money paid as a result of a citation is placed in the workers' compensation supplemental pension fund, helping injured workers and families of those who have died on the job.
LOCAL & REGIONAL MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS.
CLALLAM COUNTY MEETINGS:
Clallam County Commission meetings:
Commission work session for 7/ 23/ 18
http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1116
Agenda highlights:
1) Amendment 3 Washington State Department of Health to add statements of work for foundational public health services communicable disease and support, office and immunization child profile promotion of immunizations to improve vaccination rates, and Suicide Prevention Works!
2) Call for hearing on a Resolution affirming completion of the state mandated periodic review and update under RCW 36.70A.130 that Clallam County Comprehensive Plan and Development Regulations continue to comply with the State Growth Management Act (5b)*
3) Resolution calling for a special election to consider amendments to articles 4.20, 6.20, 9.30.010, 9.40 and 9.50 and the addition of a new section 5.15 to the Clallam County Home Rule Charter
County Commission regular session agenda for 7/ 24/ 18
http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=385
Agenda highlight
1) Applicant Resolution authorization with Recreation and Conservation Office for culvert repairs in the Hoko Watershed
PORT OF PORT ANGELES MEETING AGENDA FOR 7/ 24/ 18
https://portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07242018-314
Agenda highlight: RCO Grant – Fuel Float – Authorization Resolution
The Port is in the process of applying for funding under the Recreation and
Conservation Office (RCO) Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) program. This potential funding would be used for the replacement of the fuel float at Port Angeles Boat Haven.
The existing float was installed in 1973 and is constructed from a retrofitted barge hull.
The BIG program provides funding to develop and renovate boating facilities targeting guest recreational boats 26 feet and larger. Funding source is a portion of the federal
Aquatic Resources Trust Fund managed by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
RCO accepts BIG grants on an annual basis every spring. For the 2018/2019 funding cycle it is anticipated that $10 - $12 million dollars for approximately 10 projects will be awarded competitively on a national level.
This is the second time the Port has applied for BIG funding for the replacement of the fuel float. In 2016/2017 this project was not funded by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services.
To improve the grant application for this funding cycle, all federal in-water permits are in hand and the Port Angeles Boat Haven is now a certified under the Clean Marina program.
CLALLAM PUD AGENDA FOR 7/ 23/ 18
https://www.clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/PreAgenda-for-7-23-18-PUD-Board-Meeting.pdf
Agenda highlight
Recommendation Memo – Old Olympic Highway Water Distribution Main Project
The Commissioners will consider approving Bid No. 180803 for the Old Olympic Highway Water Distribution Main Project be awarded to Tapani Inc.
Staff Recommendation: award Bid No. 180803 for the Old Olympic Highway Water Distribution Main Project to Tapani, Inc. This contract will have a not-to-exceed amount of $799,000.00 (not including WSST 8.4%) and is to be complete by December 31, 2018.
CITY OF SEQUIM AGENDA FOR 7/ 23/ 18
http://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1913
Agenda highlight: Resolution. R2018-16 Adopting the 2019-2024 6-Year
Transportation Improvement Program and Ordinance No. 2018-007 Amending SMC 2.70
JEFFERSON COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA for 7/ 23/ 18
https://media.avcaptureall.com/session.html?sessionid=b8686443-ac48-4d4c-921f-ae505c023951&prefilter=845,5958
Agenda highlight: LETTER 0F SUPPORTre:Rural Broadband Program Strategic Planning Grant Application to Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) Program of Washington State Department of Commerce; Jefferson County Public Utility District
FORKS CITY COUNCIL AGENDA FOR 7/ 23/ 18
http://forkswashington.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/agenda72318.pdf
Agenda highlight: Reservoir recoating project bid award.
🌍🌎🌏🌎🌍🌎🌏🌍🌎🌏🌎🌍🌎🌏🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍🌏🌏🌏🌎🌎🌎
🕂He's in your corner
WEEKLY BIBLE VERSE: But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.----1 John 1:7 NKJV
Weekly Bible Study
Unity or Division: God's Plan or Human Plans?
Some suggest that a creed book or central headquarters may help achieve unity. The Ecumenical Movement encourages unity on the basis of compromise: we just just overlook contradictory doctrines and practices.----Gospel Way
Free bible studies (WBS)
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/
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: What 9 letter English word is still a word each time you take away a letter?
Answer from last week: Startling: starting, staring, string, sting, sing, sin, in, I.
New Question: An electric train is going 40 mph north, the wind is blowing 60 mph south. Which way is the train's smoke blowing?
Answer next week:
