Commentary
By Peter Ripley, Publisher
With the emotionally charged atmosphere of state and local politicians no one it seems care about imposing yet another feel good taxation of carbon. We seen similar feel good measure approved of lately both on the local and state level, with considering the consequences. For example comes to mind the local ordinance banning plastic shopping bags. The passage of that ordinance locally didn't consider the hardship it would cause on these mom & pops food marts, or any small business, to use the plastic bags.The carbon taxation Initiative 1631, was featured in the PDN under the headline: District 24: Tharinger, McEntire debate on school violence, carbon fee.
From what I read at least the two State Representative Candidates agree that imposing a carbon tax might not be the way to go. The article points out a carbon tax would increase gas prices, and freighting cost, which would make the cost of going to the grocery store even higher. Does that jive with the state's endeavor to end poverty?
I would say not, it would only make it equally hard on those on low income, and even on food stamps to overcome the high prices of groceries, which struggles month to month on benefits. This measure is just another "feel good" measure imposed by environmentalist who seem bent on putting everyone in the poor house for the sake of fighting "Climate Change", which they have no proof that is actually happening.
Here are some other stories regarding the Carbon Tax Initiative 1631, you might want to consider before casting your vote:
Tacoma News Tribune: Taxing polluters under Initiative 1631 is a desperate move. Should voters support it? Yes, but ...
The Olympian: 57-cent gas hike? How Washington’s carbon fee plan could affect a key House race.
WASHINGTON STATE WIRE: Labor resistance to carbon initiative growing.
As election day draws closer, campaigning for and against statewide ballot initiatives is ramping up. Initiative 1631, the state’s carbon pricing initiative, is not only facing opposition from the oil industry, but from a growing number of labor and building trade unions as well.
Some important information to consider:
initiated state statute, on November 6, 2018.
A yes vote supports the initiative to do the following:
enact a carbon emissions fee of $15 per metric ton of carbon beginning on January 1, 2020;
increase the fee by $2 annually until the state's greenhouse gas reduction goals are met; and
use the revenue from the fee to fund various programs and projects related to the environment.
A no vote opposes the initiative to do the following:
enact a carbon emissions fee of $15 per metric ton of carbon beginning on January 1, 2020;
increase the fee by $2 annually until the state's greenhouse gas reduction goals are met; and
use the revenue from the fee to fund various programs and projects related to the environment.
Overview
What would Initiative 1631 do?
The initiative would enact a carbon emissions fee on large emitters of carbon based on the carbon content of fossil fuels sold or used in the state and electricity generated in or imported for use in the state. The fee would be $15 per metric ton of carbon beginning on January 1, 2020, and would increase by $2 per metric ton each year until the state's greenhouse gas reduction goals of 2035 are met and the 2050 goals are on track to be met. Revenue from the fee would go into three funds: (1) a fund for air quality and energy programs and projects, (2) a fund for water quality and forest health projects, and (3) a fund for investments related to communities.[1][2] Under Washington law, this measure is a fee and not a tax because the revenue cannot be spent on government expenses or public program; rather, it is dedicated to specific accounts related to investing in climate and environmental projects.
Carbon taxes and fees in other states
As of 2018, no U.S. states had implemented a tax or fee on carbon. As of February 2018, carbon tax or fee bills had been proposed in the legislatures of seven states: Maryland, Washington, New York, Hawaii, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Maine. Additionally, proposals to study carbon taxes had been introduced in New Mexico and New Hampshire. If the measure is passed by voters, Washington would become the first U.S. state to have a carbon fee.[3]
Initiative 732 of 2016
Washington voters defeated a carbon tax initiative—Initiative 732—in 2016, with 59.25 percent of voters rejecting it. I-732 was backed by Carbon Washington and would have established a tax on carbon emissions at $15 per metric ton of emissions in July 2017 and $25 in July 2018, increasing thereafter by 3.5 percent plus inflation each year until the tax reached $100 per metric ton. The tax would have been phased in more slowly for farmers and nonprofit transportation providers. The state's northern neighbor, British Columbia, implemented a carbon tax in 2008, and this served as a base model for Initiative 732.
What are supporters and opponents saying?
Supporters argue that the initiative will create thousands of jobs and minimize pollution, resulting in cleaner air, water, and natural resources. Opponents argue that the measure would not reduce global carbon emissions and that the fee could result in Washingtonians paying more per gallon of gas if oil refineries choose to pass the cost of the fee on to consumers rather than limiting their pollution.
https://ballotpedia.org/Washington_Initiative_1631,_Carbon_Emissions_Fee_Measure_(2018)
Editorial Note: If this carbon tax goes through it will also benefit the Governor, a show and tell piece for his quest for the White House in 2020.
In this week's edition:
Pierce Transit Rolls out First Zero-Emission Buses in South Sound
Agency celebrates by offering free rides on all routes October 17
The Federal Transit Administration recently awarded Pierce Transit a $2.55 million “Low or No Emissions” grant to purchase the agency’s first-ever, all-electric, zero-emission buses and related infrastructure. The “Low-No” grant program aims to put a new generation of advanced, non-polluting transit buses on roadways across the nation.
The new vehicles will be the first all-electric buses to operate in the South Sound, but it’s not the first time Pierce Transit has chosen clean-running vehicles. The agency has a history of providing environmentally friendly transportation. (from a shared news story on Congressman Kilmer's webpage)
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/pierce-transit-rolls-out-first-zero-emission-buses-in-south-sound
OMC urges federal agency to ditch plan for Medicare, Medicaid cuts.
Olympic Medical Center officials made their concerns clear about proposed changes to Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements during a visit to Washington, D.C., late last month. (from a shared news article on Congress Kilmer's webpage, from the PDN)
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/omc-urges-federal-agency-to-ditch-plan-for-medicare-medicaid-cuts
Senator Murray: “Now it’s up to Secretary DeVos to do the right thing and immediately begin discharging outstanding loans in full from students who were cheated, defrauded, or left in the lurch, and to stop putting lobbyists and shady for-profit colleges ahead of the students and borrowers she is supposed to work for”
From a press release issued 10/ 16/ 18
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=FFE36D9B-6AE7-4C1B-8EE7-1493847CFD97
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate education committee, released the following statement in response to the implementation of a new regulation on “borrower defense” which went into effect today after a federal judge struck down attempts from both Trump Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and a for-profit college trade group to delay the rule.
“Building on the ruling that Secretary DeVos’ actions to delay relief to students and borrowers was illegal, the same federal court has now cleared the path for those who have been cheated or defrauded by predatory for-profit colleges to get the relief they’re entitled to.”
“Now it’s up to Secretary DeVos to do the right thing and immediately begin discharging outstanding loans in full from students who were cheated, defrauded, or left in the lurch, and to stop putting lobbyists and shady for-profit colleges ahead of the students and borrowers she is supposed to work for.
“As the court made clear, the Department must act swiftly to discharge the loans of students from closed schools like Corinthian Colleges, provide full relief to more than 100,000 borrowers who have been waiting for an answer, and ban predatory college behavior like forced arbitration.”
Today’s ruling marks a victory against a series of stall tactics by Secretary DeVos to delay providing relief to borrowers that they are owed under law. In Washington state alone, nearly 5,700 residents and out-of-state students attending school in Washington state fell victim to the predatory practices of Corinthian's Everest, Heald, and WyoTech campuses in 2015 and may be eligible for immediate debt relief. The Department halted the processing of claims from tens of thousands of borrowers, repeatedly delayed the 2016 “borrower defense” rule from going into effect, tried to provide “partial relief” to borrowers which was later blocked by a federal court, and abandoned the rules altogether for a proposal that would effectively end debt relief to cheated and defrauded students. Following the collapse of for-profit giants Corinthian Colleges and ITT Technical Institute, thousands of students have been left with a useless education and massive amounts of debt. Recently-released data secured by Senators Murray and Durbin forced the Trump Administration to publicly reveal that more than 100,000 students still await relief, including more than 3,400 students in Washington state. These students and tens of thousands more who were impacted by closed schools now have a chance to get the help they deserve if Secretary DeVos swiftly implements the court’s decision.
🌍WORLD NEWS HEADLINES from The UN NEWS CENTER & Other sources.
UN rights chief calls for release of hundreds abducted and abused in South Sudan.
Hundreds of civilians who were taken by opposition forces in South Sudan’s Western Equatoria region during an uptick in fighting are still missing, the UN’s top rights official said on Thursday, in a call for their immediate release.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/10/1023492
‘More time’ agreed for buffer zone, to spare three million Syrian civilians in Idlib.
Russia and Turkey have said that they will allow “more time” for opposition groups to withdraw from a de-escalation zone in Syria’s Idlib, which has been spared air raids for more than a month, a senior humanitarian adviser to the UN said on Thursday.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/10/1023502
Under fire, UN refugee agency evacuates 135 detained in Libya to Niger.
Amid increasingly violent clashes between rival armed groups in Libya’s capital,Tripoli, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has successfully airlifted 135 migrants and refugees to safety in Niger.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/10/1023512
Africa is ‘on the rise’, says UN chief Guterres, urging collaboration for better future.
Africa is “on the move and on the rise” with communities coming together to resolve their problems and offer mutual support, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted on Wednesday.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/10/1023451
World ‘deserves to know the truth’ behind Kashoggi disappearance: UN human rights chief.
United Nations human rights chief Michele Bachelet said on Wednesday that she was open to an independent, UN-led investigation into the fate of Saudi journalist Jamal Kashoggi, if joint efforts by Turkey and Saudi Arabia, fail to uncover the facts.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/10/1023411
🌎PAGE 2
Senators Murray and Cantwell Sound Alarm on Rare Disease Linked to Child Limb Paralysis.
Press release issued 10/ 17/ 18
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=A3EE0397-3265-4A79-AF21-50112D580C18
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, and Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) sent a letter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Robert Redfield expressing their concerns regarding the spike in cases of acute flaccid myelitis (AFM). In the letter, they requested information regarding progress on research into AFM, potential prevention and treatment efforts, and coordination with local and state health departments.
“While CDC classifies AFM as a very rare condition, we are concerned by the number of cases identified this year. For example, in our home state of Washington, there are currently seven suspected cases. As of October 16, 2018, CDC had confirmed 62 cases of AFM in 22 states nationwide, already surpassing last year’s total number of cases but not yet reaching the total number of cases from 2016, which also saw a concerning spike in AFM cases,” wrote the Senators. “These reports are particularly alarming since the majority of suspected cases are children. Harrowing accounts of sudden limb paralysis, including among very young children, have puzzled physicians and placed public health officials on high alert. CDC estimates that fewer than one in a million people are diagnosed with AFM every year, and experts have been unable to identify specific causes of the disease.”
According to CDC, fewer than one in a million people are diagnosed with AFM every year, and experts have not identified specific causes of the disease. In Washington state, there are 7 suspected cases of AFM, and nationwide the number of cases this year has already surpassed last year.
Senator Murray Statement on Passing of Paul Allen
Press release issued 10/ 15/ 18
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ID=6845AFF3-B22A-40DD-BA01-7C83BCD3988C
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement:
“We will hear so much about the tremendous impact that Paul has had on our state, our country, and the world—but the impact he has had on the people he worked with and those who knew him best cannot be overstated. He leaves a legacy of compassion, innovation, and heart that none of us will soon forget, and all of us will honor. It was joy to know Paul and to see his incredible drive and incredible heart, and he will be missed by me and so many others.”
Senator Murray Calls On Education Secretary DeVos to Stop Plan That Would Weaken Sexual Assault Protections, Start Listening to Students’ Concerns
Oct 12 2018--press release
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ID=778BE0F8-AB3D-4674-BEFC-4E9E0B75FC9B
Proposed regulation would weaken responsibility for colleges to address sexual assault, restrict protections for students by adopting dangerous and burdensome definition of sexual harassment.
“We are deeply alarmed by the news reports about, and the leaked draft of, the U.S. Department of Education’s (“Department”) potential proposed regulations governing Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (“Title IX”), a law that is critical in ensuring equal opportunity in education regardless of sex. The draft regulations suggest a blatant disregard of the law’s intentions by redefining a school’s legal obligation under Title IX in a way that would weaken the law, undermine fundamental protections for survivors of sexual assault, harassment, rape, or other forms of sex discrimination, and empower schools to ignore discriminatory, unlawful behavior against students. We are concerned that the rule does not reflect input from students and survivors whose voices deserve to be heard, and we ask that the Department refrain from publishing the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) until it is clear that survivors’ voices have been fully considered and addressed in any proposed regulations,” Senator Murray wrote.
🌏More World News headlines...
UN PRESS RELEASE: On International Day, Secretary-General Calls for Ending All Forms of Poverty Everywhere, Stressing Universal Human Right to ‘Freedom from Want’.
" Armed conflicts hinder further progress in poverty eradication — and can quickly undermine many hard-won gains. Discrimination and rising inequalities also pose major challenges. Women’s unequal access to opportunities has real impacts not just on their lives, but on families and communities as well. Youth, older people, indigenous peoples, people with disabilities and migrants are also disproportionately affected."
Press release issued 10/ 17/ 18
https://www.un.org/press/en/2018/sgsm19308.doc.htm
Spanning 116 States, World’s Five Nuclear Weapon Free Zones Must Use Political Capital to Advance Common Disarmament Goals, Speakers Tell First Committee
Casting a spotlight on regional efforts to advance common disarmament goals, delegates in the First Committee (Disarmament and International Security) addressed the current and potential contribution of nuclear‑weapon‑free zones to global peace and security, as the Committee concluded its general debate and began its thematic segment.
https://www.un.org/press/en/2018/gadis3604.doc.htm
From the US Mission to the UN:
Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on the Middle East.
" Some in the international community still labor under the misimpression that the Iranian regime might be a responsible international actor, or might abide by the laws of a civilized society. Some think Tehran might care more about a better life for the people of Iran than about the forcible spread of the regime’s power and influence.'
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8660
Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Syria.
" Because frankly, Mr. President, Assad, Russia, and Iran have the most to gain from pursuing a military end to the Syria war. De-escalation zones have been established and ignored by Russia and the Assad regime. Accountability has been resisted. Villages have been leveled. Humanitarian assistance has been denied. Weapons of mass destruction have been used.'
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8658
Remarks at a U.S. Event Launching the "Jailed for What?" Campaign Highlighting Cuba's Political Prisoners.
" This event is a kickoff for a campaign called “Jailed for What?” and our aim is to spotlight the people who are in prison in Cuba for doing nothing more than what we’re trying to do today, which is speaking calmly and peacefully."
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8659
PAGE 3:
Senator Murray Urges Trump Trade Representative to Explain Latest Tariff Decision That Could Hurt Business in Washington State and Nationwide.
Press release issued 10/ 18/ 18
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=33FADE66-FDFB-4F57-95B2-5B88D99F9163
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) joined her colleagues in a letter to the Trump Administration’s lead trade official asking why the Administration’s latest round of tariffs on $200 billion of imported Chinese goods did not include exclusions to protect American businesses. For earlier rounds of tariffs, exclusions apply in cases where an American business needs a specific product from a tariffed country that is not made anywhere in the United States and the inability to access that product would cause severe economic harm to a U.S. business.
“China has engaged in unfair trade practices that harm American workers. Those practices must be addressed to ensure that our workers can compete on a fair playing field. However, without an exclusion process, the ability to compete fairly may be unnecessarily impacted for U.S. workers and manufacturers that rely on global supply chains. Goods that are covered by Round 3 of the 301 tariffs should be given the same access to exclusions as were in Round 1 and Round 2,” Senator Murray wrote.
In the letter, Senator Murray also noted that in prior tariff rounds the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) recognized the potential harmful effects on a U.S. business if exclusions were not in place, and asked USTR Ambassador Robert Lighthizer why the same consideration was not extended to the most recent round of tariffs. Given those concerns, the letter concluded with several questions for Ambassador Lighthizer:
· Does the Administration intend to offer an exclusions application process?
· If so, how will that process be implemented?
· If not, what is the rationale for providing no exclusions process in Round 3 of the 301 tariffs when Rounds 1 and 2 included one?
Since President Trump first announced tariffs against Chinese goods, Senator Murray has been vocal in urging the Administration to bring an end to its trade disputes that are hurting Washington state workers and businesses, visiting with growers and agricultural producers in Central Washington and workers and officials at the Port of Vancouver in Southwest Washington to hear more about the economic uncertainty caused by President Trump’s trade disputes and the impact of tariffs on the state’s economy.
🗽NATIONAL HEADLINES
WHITE HOUSE FACT SHEET: President Donald J. Trump is Following Through on His Promise to Cut Burdensome Red Tape and Unleash the American Economy---Released on 10/ 17/ 18
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/president-donald-j-trump-following-promise-cut-burdensome-red-tape-unleash-american-economy/
An ever-growing maze of regulations, rules, restrictions has cost our country trillions and trillions of dollars, millions of jobs, countless American factories, and devastated many industries.
President Donald J. Trump
ENDING OVERREGULATION: President Donald J. Trump is delivering on his promise to get rid of unnecessary, outdated, and duplicative regulations.
The Trump Administration is releasing findings that show the President’s regulatory reform efforts saved American families and business owners $23 billion in fiscal year (FY) 2018.
This progress builds on the Administration’s significant regulatory reforms in FY 2017.
President Trump’s historic regulatory reform is a complete change in direction, with Americans actually seeing an overall decrease in regulatory burdens.
The Administration issued 176 deregulatory actions last year, eliminating 12 regulations for every new one according to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs.
The President has again exceeded his pledge to cut two regulations across the year for every new one.
Since taking office, President Trump’s efforts have achieved $33 billion in regulatory savings.
In a stark contrast, President Obama imposed $245 billion in burdensome regulatory costs on the American people in his first 21 months in office.
Businesses are finally being freed of Washington’s overreach and the American economy is flourishing as a result.
REAL RESULTS: President Trump’s efforts to cut burdensome and unnecessary red tape are bringing real change and delivering real results for Americans.
The Department of Labor made it easier for small businesses to provide better health insurance to their employees through association health plans.
The Department of Veterans Affairs greatly expanded veterans’ ability to use telehealth services, giving them access to state-of-the-art healthcare everywhere.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has taken action to free our fishermen from burdensome red tape while also promoting responsible fishing practices.
For instance, areas off the coast of New England have been opened to commercial sea scallop harvesting for the first time in years, netting an economic benefit of $654 million.
The Department of Health and Human Services reduced paperwork for nursing facilities, inpatient hospitals, and home health providers, saving $8.2 billion in regulatory costs.
DEREGULATION WILL CONTINUE: The Trump Administration will continue its bold reforms to roll back burdensome red tape in FY 2019.
President Trump’s regulatory reform efforts are accelerating, and we will continue to take a responsible approach to addressing overly burdensome regulations in FY 2019.
The Department of Transportation and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have proposed amendments to existing Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards.
These amendments could save up to $340 billion over the lifetime of new vehicles.
The EPA and Army Corps of Engineers have proposed new rulemakings that would reassess the Obama Administration’s burdensome “Waters of the United States” rule.
The EPA has proposed the Affordable Clean Energy rule, which would replace the 2015 Clean Power Plan (CPP).
In some scenarios, avoided compliances costs total $6.4 billion compared to the CPP.
Related press release: Remarks by President Trump in Meeting with Workers on “Cutting the Red Tape, Unleashing Economic Freedom.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-meeting-workers-cutting-red-tape-unleashing-economic-freedom/
Quote: " We’re here today to discuss my administration’s historic effort to reduce job-killing regulations. We have set a record on killing regulations. No administration has knocked out as many as us, and we have a long way to go.
At the same time, we will have rules, regulations, and other standards which we need, we have to have. But we have knocked out tremendous numbers of unnecessary regulations.'
WHITE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE: Text of a Notice on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Significant Narcotics Traffickers Centered in Colombia.
Quote: " On October 21, 1995, by Executive Order 12978, the President declared a national emergency with respect to significant narcotics traffickers centered in Colombia, pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701-1706) to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States constituted by the actions of significant narcotics traffickers centered in Colombia and the extreme level of violence, corruption, and harm such actions cause in the United States and abroad.
The actions of significant narcotics traffickers centered in Colombia continue to threaten the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States and cause an extreme level of violence, corruption, and harm in the United States and abroad. For this reason, the national emergency declared in Executive Order 12978 of October 21, 1995, and the measures adopted pursuant thereto to deal with that emergency, must continue in effect beyond October 21, 2018. Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency with respect to significant narcotics traffickers centered in Colombia declared in Executive Order 12978.'
🗽In other national headlines...
U.S. Assistance to Ethnic and Religious Minorities in Iraq
Oct. 16: As part of the continued commitment by Vice President Pence, Secretary Pompeo, and USAID Administrator Green to support ethnic and religious minorities in Iraq, the U.S. is proud to announce over $178 million in foreign assistance to support these vulnerable communities.
https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2018/10/286663.htm
DOJ: Assistant Attorney General Makan Delrahim Delivers Remarks at the University of Haifa in Israel.
Quote: " Innovation is a topic that is near and dear to me. As a former patent lawyer, I have seen up close the dynamic power of innovation and the importance of providing the right incentives to those who create. America’s longstanding appreciation for innovation led it to protect patent holders in the United States Constitution, which was ratified in 1789. The Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice also has a long history of caring deeply about promoting innovation through its competition policies and enforcement. Nothing promotes consumer welfare better than the dynamic improvements that innovation provides.
A track record of successful innovation is something that Israel and the United States share in common. In the same way that Silicon Valley serves as a cradle of creativity for start-ups, Israel also has become a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. Israel is home to thousands of innovative start-ups and it also houses R&D centers for many of America’s leading tech companies. "
https://www.justice.gov/opa/speech/assistant-attorney-general-makan-delrahim-delivers-remarks-university-haifa-israel
DOD: Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Press Briefing by Col. Ryan via Video conference from Baghdad, Iraq
Colonel Sean J. Ryan, spokesman, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve; Commander Sean Robertson, Pentagon spokesman
https://dod.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1665186/combined-joint-task-force-operation-inherent-resolve-press-briefing-by-col-ryan/
DOD: Chiefs of Defense Conference Looks to ‘Win the Peace’ Against Violent Extremism
JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. --
“It’s not about winning the war. It’s about winning the peace,” was an expression heard often today at the Counter Violent Extremist Organizations Chiefs of Defense Conference here today.
https://dod.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1664073/chiefs-of-defense-conference-looks-to-win-the-peace-against-violent-extremism/
🗽PAGE 4: MORE NATIONAL HEADLINES
DOJ: Dallas Physicians and Nurses Sentenced to Prison for Role in $11 Million Medicare Fraud Scheme.
Press release issued: Tuesday, October 16, 2018
Two Dallas doctors and three nurses were sentenced yesterday in an $11.3 million Medicare fraud scheme involving false and fraudulent claims for home health services.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox of the Northern District of Texas, Special Agent in Charge C.J. Porter of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Dallas Region, Special Agent in Charge Eric Jackson of the FBI’s Dallas Field Office, and Director of Law Enforcement David Maxwell of the Texas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), made the announcement
Patience Okoroji, 60, of Dallas County, Texas, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor of the Northern District of Texas to serve 120 months in prison for her role in the fraudulent scheme as a part-owner of Timely Home Health Services Inc. (Timely) and a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). Kelly Robinett, M.D., 69, of Denton County, Texas, who was a former part-owner and supervising physician at Boomer House Calls (Boomer) of Frisco, Texas, was sentenced to serve 42 months in prison; Joy Ogwuegbu, 42, of Collin County, Texas, the former Director of Nursing at Timely, was sentenced to serve 42 months in prison and Kingsley Nwanguma, 48, of Dallas County, an LVN at Timely, was sentenced to serve 42 months in prison. Angel Claudio, M.D., 61, of Hidalgo County was sentenced to serve six months in prison.
On June 22, following a five-day trial before Judge O’Connor, Robinett and Nwanguma were each convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. In addition, Robinett and Nwanguma were each convicted of three counts of health care fraud, and Ogwuegbu was convicted of four counts of health care fraud. Claudio; Okoroji; Usani Ewah, 60, of Dallas County, a part-owner of Timely and a registered nurse (RN); and Shawn Chamberlain, 49, of Collin County, a part-owner of Boomer and a physician’s assistant, all pleaded guilty. Chamberlain and Ewah are awaiting sentencing.
According to evidence presented at trial, from 2007 through 2015, Okoroji, Ewah, Nwanguma, Ogwuegbu, Claudio, Robinett, and Chamberlain engaged in a scheme to defraud Medicare by submitting and causing the submission of false and fraudulent claims to Medicare, through Timely, a home health agency, and Boomer, a physician house call company. The evidence presented at trial showed that Robinett, a doctor of osteopathic medicine, certified Medicare beneficiaries—whom he had never seen and did not care to see—for medically unnecessary home health services that were often not provided. The evidence further established that Ogwuegbu, a registered nurse, falsified nursing assessments and Nwanguma, a licensed vocational nurse, falsified nursing notes, to make it appear as if Medicare beneficiaries were qualified for and were provided skilled nursing services.
Evidence at trial demonstrated that Timely billed Medicare for over $11.3 million for home health services purportedly provided to Timely’s patients, some of which was attributable to certifications Robinett signed. Court documents also show that Robinett’s company, Boomer, billed Medicare over $1.6 million for medically unnecessary home health certifications and services and physician’s home visits.
This case was investigated by the HHS-OIG, FBI, and MFCU. Assistant Deputy Chief Adrienne Frazior and Trial Attorneys Aleza Remis and Christina Liu of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, now operating in 12 cities across the country, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion.
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/dallas-physicians-and-nurses-sentenced-prison-role-11-million-medicare-fraud-scheme
DEPT of INTERIOR: Trump Administration Delivers Historic Progress on Offshore Wind.
Continues to fulfill promise of a secure energy future for Americans.
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/trump-administration-delivers-historic-progress-offshore-wind
WASHINGTON – Yesterday, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke announced three major developments in American offshore wind energy spanning from coast to coast. Continuing with the Trump Administration's all-of-the-above energy policy, the Secretary spoke at the American Wind Energy Association’s Offshore Wind Conference and announced 1.) much-anticipated wind auction in federal waters off the coast of Massachusetts; 2.) the environmental review of a proposed wind project offshore Rhode Island; and 3.) the next steps to a first-ever wind auction in federal waters off of California.
Interior Announces Multi-Billion Dollar Regulatory Relief in FY 2018.
WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced its success in reducing the Department's regulatory burden in support of and compliance with President Donald Trump's Executive Order 13771 on Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs. Interior has been a leader in the Trump Administration at cutting bureaucratic red tape. Fiscal Year 2018 regulatory reform actions have resulted in a savings of roughly $2.5 billion in net present value. Since January 2017, Interior has withdrawn more than 150 proposed rulemakings from the regulatory agenda and finalized no less than 19 deregulatory actions in FY2018. These regulatory reforms coupled with historic tax cuts and other factors have grown the economy and helped United States energy production hit historic highs. The Department recently held a record-shattering lease sale on federal lands in New Mexico which generated close to $1 billion- nearly half of which will go directly to the State of New Mexico.
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/interior-announces-multi-billion-dollar-regulatory-relief-fy-2018
CDC: Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella Infantis Infections Linked to Raw Chicken Products.
CDC and public health and regulatory officials in several states are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Infantis infections linked to raw chicken products. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service is monitoring the outbreak.
https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2018/s1017-salmonella-infections-raw-chicken.html
HUD AND CENSUS BUREAU REPORT RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY IN SEPTEMBER 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 September 2018.
https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_18_121
EPA Releases Fall 2018 Unified Agenda and Regulatory Plan Shows Commitment to Strong Environmental Protection and Regulatory Reform
WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), along with the rest of the federal government, released the Fall 2018 Unified Agenda of Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions and Regulatory Plan, which provides updates to the public about regulatory activity. The Fall 2018 Regulatory Agenda and Plan show strong progress toward regulatory reform while advancing EPA’s core mission of protecting human health and the environment.
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-releases-fall-2018-unified-agenda-and-regulatory-plan-shows-commitment-strong
📊PAGE 5: BUSINESS & FINANCE.
Reduced 24-percent withholding rate applies to small businesses and other payers; Revised backup withholding publication features helpful FAQs
R-2018-205, October 18, 2018
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/reduced-24-percent-withholding-rate-applies-to-small-businesses-and-other-payers-revised-backup-withholding-publication-features-helpful-faqs
Washington — The Internal Revenue Service today urged small businesses and other payers to check out the agency’s newly-revised backup withholding publication, now available on IRS.gov.
Publication 1281, Backup Withholding for Missing and Incorrect Name/TIN(s), posted last month on IRS.gov, has been updated to reflect a key change made by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). As a result of this change, effective Jan. 1, 2018, the backup withholding tax rate dropped from 28 percent to 24 percent.
In general, backup withholding applies in various situations including, but not limited to, when a taxpayer fails to supply their correct taxpayer identification number (TIN) to a payer. Usually, a TIN is a Social Security number (SSN), but in some instances, it can be an Employer Identification Number (EIN), Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number (ATIN). Backup withholding also applies, following notification by the IRS, where a taxpayer underreported interest or dividend income on their federal income tax return.
Publication 1281 is packed with useful information designed to help any payer required to impose backup withholding on any of their payees. Among other things, the publication features answers to 34 frequently asked questions (FAQs). One of them, Q/A 34, points out that a payer who mistakenly backup withheld at an incorrect rate (such as the old 28-percent tax rate, rather than the new 24-percent rate), need not refund the difference to the payee. However, a payer who chooses to refund the difference must do so before the end of the year and can then make appropriate adjustments to their federal tax deposits.
When backup withholding applies, payers must backup withhold tax from payments not otherwise subject to withholding. Payees may be subject to backup withholding if they:
Fail to give a TIN,
Give an incorrect TIN,
Supply a TIN in an improper manner,
Underreport interest or dividends on their income tax return, or
Fail to certify that they’re not subject to backup withholding for underreporting of interest and dividends.
Backup withholding can apply to most kinds of payments reported on Form 1099, including:
Interest payments;
Dividends;
Patronage dividends, but only if at least half of the payment is in money;
Rents, profits or other income;
Commissions, fees or other payments for work performed as an independent contractor;
Payments by brokers and barter exchange transactions;
Payments by fishing boat operators, but only the portion that's in money and represents a share of the proceeds of the catch;
Payment card and third-party network transactions; and
Royalty payments.
Backup withholding also may apply to gambling winnings that aren't subject to regular gambling withholding.
To stop backup withholding, the payee must correct any issues that caused it. They may need to give the correct TIN to the payer, resolve the underreported income and pay the amount owed, or file a missing return. The Backup Withholding page, Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax and Publication 1335, Backup Withholding Questions and Answers have more information.
Payers report any backup withholding on Form 945, Annual Return of Withheld Federal Income Tax. The 2018 form is due Jan. 31, 2019. For more information about depositing backup withholding taxes, see Publication 15, Employer’s Tax Guide. Payers also show any backup withholding on information returns, such as Forms 1099, that they furnish to their payees and file with the IRS.
Like regular federal income tax withholding, a payee can claim credit for any backup withholding when they file their 2018 federal income tax return.
IRS: Several tax law changes may affect bottom line of many business owners.
IR-2018-203, October 16, 2018
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-several-tax-law-changes-may-affect-bottom-line-of-many-business-owners
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded business owners that tax reform legislation passed last December affects nearly every business.
With just a few months left in the year, the IRS is highlighting important information for small businesses and self-employed individuals to help them understand and meet their tax obligations.
Temporary 100 percent expensing for certain business assets
Businesses are now able to write off most depreciable business assets in the year the business places them in service. The 100-percent depreciation deduction generally applies to depreciable business assets with a recovery period of 20 years or less and certain other property. Machinery, equipment, computers, appliances and furniture generally qualify.
Taxpayers can find more information in the proposed regulations.
Fringe benefits
Entertainment and meals: The new law eliminates the deduction for expenses related to entertainment, amusement or recreation. However, taxpayers can continue to deduct 50 percent of the cost of business meals if the taxpayer or an employee of the taxpayer is present and other conditions are met. The meals may be provided to a current or potential business customer, client, consultant or similar business contact.
Qualified transportation: The new law disallows deductions for expenses associated with transportation fringe benefits or expenses incurred providing transportation for commuting. There’s an exception when the transportation expenses are necessary for employee safety.
Bicycle commuting reimbursements: Employers can deduct qualified bicycle commuting reimbursements as a business expense for 2018 through 2025. The new tax law also suspends the exclusion of qualified bicycle commuting reimbursements from an employee’s income for 2018 through 2025. Employers must now include these reimbursements in the employee’s wages.
Qualified moving expenses reimbursements: Reimbursements an employer pays to an employee in 2018 for qualified moving expenses are subject to federal income tax. Reimbursements incurred in a prior year are not subject to federal income or employment taxes; nor are payments from an employer to a moving company in 2018 for qualified moving services provided to an employee prior to 2018.
Employee achievement award: Special rules allow an employee to exclude certain achievement awards from their wages if the awards are tangible personal property. An employer also may deduct awards that are tangible personal property, subject to certain deduction limits. The new law clarifies that tangible personal property doesn’t include cash, cash equivalents, gift cards, gift coupons, certain gift certificates, tickets to theater or sporting events, vacations, meals, lodging, stocks, bonds, securities and other similar items.
The tax reform for businesses page has more information on fringe benefit changes.
Estimated Taxes
Individuals, including sole proprietors, partners and S corporation shareholders, may need to pay quarterly installments of estimated tax unless they owe less than $1,000 when they file their tax return or they had no tax liability in the prior year (subject to certain conditions). More information about tax withholding and estimated taxes can be found on the agency’s Pay As You Go page as well as in Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax. Publication 505 has additional details, including worksheets and examples, which can help taxpayers determine whether they should pay estimated taxes. Some affected taxpayers may include those who have dividend or capital gain income, owe alternative minimum tax or have other special situations.
💵MORE BUSINESS & FINANCE HEADLINES...
USDA BLOG: Market Match Means More Money, Healthful Food on the Table.
Many reports show that incentivizing the purchase of fruits and vegetables at farmers markets is a wise investment, one that addresses health and food security while also delivering a substantive, economic impact for farmers and farming communities.
https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2018/10/16/market-match-means-more-money-healthful-food-table
THE FED: Minutes of the Federal Open Market Committee, September 25-26, 2018.
The Federal Reserve Board and the Federal Open Market Committee on Wednesday released the attached minutes of the Committee meeting held on September 25-26, 2018. A summary of economic projections made by Federal Reserve Board members and Reserve Bank presidents for the meeting is also included as an addendum to these minutes.
https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/monetary20181017a.htm
US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: Addressing Cyber Threats – Together
Cybersecurity threats from hacktivists, criminals, and hostile nation states are enough to keep government officials, businesses, and consumers up at night. These attacks are growing in sophistication and frequency and pose serious threats to our national and economic security.
https://www.uschamber.com/series/above-the-fold/addressing-cyber-threats-together
FTC Launches National Campaign with Resources to Assist Small Businesses with Cybersecurity.
Today, the Federal Trade Commission, along with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the Small Business Administration (SBA), launched a national education campaign to help small business owners understand common cyber threats and how they can help protect their businesses.---press release issued 10/ 18/ 18
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2018/10/ftc-launches-national-campaign-resources-assist-small-businesses
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ANNOUNCES NEW COMPLIANCE ASSISTANCE TOOLS TO ASSIST NEW AND SMALL BUSINESSES.
WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the launch of the New and Small Business Assistance and the Compliance Assistance Toolkits webpages. These new online tools assist American small businesses and workers with simple, straightforward resources that provide critical Wage and Hour Division (WHD) information, as well as links to other resources.
https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/whd/whd20181017
USDA BLOG: Revolutionary Carbon Foam from Wood.
Carbon foam — a stiff, porous structure formed from a web of carbon atoms — is the stuff of manufacturers’ dreams. The breakthrough material is strong but lightweight, non-flammable and able to maintain its performance at high temperatures, and capable of absorbing sound and radiation. This unique combination of traits means carbon foam is brimming with potential applications across military, aerospace, and commercial industries. It is ideal for aircraft and ship insulation, wall panels, stealth technology (to avoid radar detection) and more.
https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2018/10/18/revolutionary-carbon-foam-wood
Treasury Releases Report on Macroeconomic and Foreign Exchange Policies of Major Trading Partners of the United States.
Washington – The U.S. Department of the Treasury today delivered to Congress the semiannual Report on Macroeconomic and Foreign Exchange Policies of Major Trading Partners of the United States. The Report concluded that while the currency practices of six countries were found to require close attention, no major U.S. trading partner met the relevant 2015 legislative criteria for enhanced analysis during the period covered by the Report. Further, no trading partner was found to have met the 1988 legislative standards during the current reporting period.
https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm528
COMMERCE DEPT: Transatlantic Privacy Deal is Vital to Trade
As dozens of officials from the US and the EU convene in Brussels this week for the second annual review of the EU-US Privacy Shield framework, they can take pride in one overriding fact: Privacy Shield works.
https://www.commerce.gov/news/opinion-editorials/2018/10/op-ed-transatlantic-privacy-deal-vital-trade
(This OP ED appeared in the The Financial Times)
🌎PAGE 6
STATE NEWS HEADLINES..
Inslee works to improve Washington’s behavioral health system
The governor was in Central and Northwest Washington this week to tour patient-centered facilities.
From the Governor's medium page posted 10/ 16/ 18
https://medium.com/wagovernor/inslee-visits-community-based-behavioral-health-services-a357086832d0
Gov. Jay Inslee traveled to Wenatchee and Everett this week to promote his five-year plan to create small, community-based behavioral health facilities that ensure that people are treated near their family and friends.
Inslee is working with legislators to change Washington's behavioral health system. Washington currently has two large state hospitals, Western State and Eastern State, and under Inslee’s plan they will continue focusing on serving forensic — or court-ordered — and hard-to-place civil commitment patients. Other civil commitment patients will be served in new, 16-bed regional hospitals run by the state and other community-based care facilities.
In Wenatchee the governor visited Parkside, a new behavioral health treatment facility. Parkside will treat clients throughout the North Central Accountable Community of Health Region in Chelan, Douglas, Grant, and Okanogan Counties. Inslee then toured Medical Unit 1, the behavioral unit at Central Washington Hospital.
MU1 has successfully increased collaboration between community partners, which ultimately provides better outcomes for patients. The partnership includes Confluence Health, Catholic Charities, additional local behavioral health and substance abuse providers, law enforcement, jail officials, county prosecutors, local judges and public defenders.
In Everett, the governor spoke to family members and individuals with lived experience in navigating the behavioral health system. Inslee then visited Sunrise, a new 16-bed group home for those stable enough to be released from state hospitals, but who still need round-the-clock care. The governor heard from providers and staff ahead of patients being admitted later this fall.
“In Wenatchee and Everett, I saw dedicated professional staff who want the very best for these patients. Medical professionals, law enforcement and local elected officials and community leaders recognize that patients do better when they are able to stay in their own community, close to family and friends,” Inslee said.
“I believe in transitioning our civil population to state run facilities as much as possible is the best option. Ensuring that we have quality, stability and continuity of care will ensure our success,” Inslee continued.
Earlier this year, Inslee signed a bill to overhaul the oversight of behavioral health programs in Washington and integrate those programs with other health care services. Part of that vision includes increasing the number of behavioral health resources available throughout the state, so that patients can receive treatment in their own communities.
The governor’s 2019–2021 budget proposal will include the policy changes and funding needed to make the transition.
Inslee and his staff will work closely with legislators, state agencies, patient advocates, labor and others in the coming months to ensure the plan adequately takes into account the funding and timing to coordinate workforce transition and facility siting and construction.
Inslee and Wyman highlight voting security ahead of midterm elections next month
Our tabulation systems — the machines that count the ballots in each county — are not connected to the internet.
Gov. Jay Inslee and Washington Secretary of State Kim Wyman ( on Wednesday), highlighted work the state has done to promote statewide election security. Inslee and Wyman visited King County Elections Center in Renton, and were joined by King County Elections Director Julie Wise and Colonel Kenneth A. Borchers of the Washington National Guard.
https://medium.com/wagovernor/inslee-and-wyman-highlight-voting-security-ahead-of-midterm-elections-next-month-a1dec7572698
Inslee announces largest-ever purchase of green power for state operations
Gov. Jay Inslee ( on Wednesday) announced that eight state agencies will purchase over one hundred million kWh of electricity by 2021 from wind and solar projects built in Washington state.
https://medium.com/wagovernor/inslee-announces-largest-ever-purchase-of-green-power-for-state-operations-4795ac192741
Inslee issues approval of Columbia Solar Project in Kittitas County
October 17, 2018---press release issued
Gov. Jay Inslee today issued a letter approving the site certification agreements for the Columbia Solar Project in Kittitas County. The Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council reviewed the proposal and submitted its recommendations to the governor in August. It is the first energy project approved by Inslee under EFSEC’s expedited review process.
https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-issues-approval-columbia-solar-project-kittitas-county
🌎PAGE 7: MORE STATE NEWS & LOCAL MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS.
HORNING BROTHERS TO PAY $525,000 TO RESOLVE CIVIL RIGHTS LAWSUIT BROUGHT BY ATTORNEY GENERAL OVER SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF AGRICULTURAL WORKERS
SPOKANE — Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced today that Horning Brothers, LLC, a Quincy-based agricultural company, will pay $525,000 in a civil rights enforcement action claiming sexual harassment of multiple female agricultural workers, discriminatory hiring and sex-segregated employment practices and retaliation against workers who reported the improper conduct.
https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/horning-brothers-pay-525000-resolve-civil-rights-lawsuit-brought-attorney-general
Commerce to Host Virtual Listening Session on Opportunity Zones Tuesday, Oct. 23.
The Washington State Department of Commerce, together with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco and local partners, held Opportunity Zone Listening Sessions throughout Washington state in August, September and October to help educate communities about this new federal program.
https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/community-programs-facilities/commerce-to-host-virtual-listening-session-on-opportunity-zones-tuesday-oct-23/
State to host community workshop on civilian-military compatible land use planning Nov. 1 in Everett
OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington State Department of Commerce is drafting a Washington State Guidebook on Military and Community Compatibility as a technical resource for local governments to use in planning for development near military installations. The next of seven community workshops to capture opinions and comments for the project is Thursday, Nov. 1 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. in the Mt. Baker Room at Everett Transit, 3201 Smith Ave., Everett, WA, 98201.
https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/community-programs-facilities/state-to-host-community-workshop-on-civilian-military-compatible-land-use-planning-nov-1-in-everett/
Ecology approves Pierce County's revised shoreline master program
Pierce County’s locally-tailored land-use policies and regulations will protect and guide the use of 225 miles of marine and 880 miles of freshwater shoreline in the county, including the shorelines around or along.
https://ecologywa.blogspot.com/2018/10/ecology-approves-pierce-countys-revised.html
Governor’s Committee honors employers who hire people with disabilities.
OLYMPIA –Six public and private employers were honored yesterday for their exemplary work recruiting, hiring, retaining and promoting people with disabilities.
https://esd.wa.gov/newsroom/governors-committee-honors-employers-who-hire-people-with-disabilities-2018
Commission approves change to Willapa Bay sport crabbing season, discusses Columbia River salmon policy.
OLYMPIA – Sport crabbers will be able to set their pots in Willapa Bay in the fall two weeks earlier than in the past after the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission approved the change at a meeting Monday.
https://wdfw.wa.gov/news/oct1618a/
Public Invited to Provide Input on Future Hiking, Mountain Biking and Equestrian Trails in Reiter Foothills Forest.
Second community meeting for non-motorized recreation Oct. 22
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites community members and Reiter Foothills Forest visitors to share their vision for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding within the state working forest near Gold Bar.
https://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/public-invited-provide-input-future-hiking-mountain-biking-and-equestrian-trails-reiter
Final Chance to Comment on How you Want to Play in Teanaway
Oct. 24 kick-off meeting for the supplemental Teanaway Community Forest Recreation Plan comment period
After extensive community engagement, planning, and development, the Teanaway Community Forest Recreation Plan is nearing adoption.
Community members and recreationists are invited to join the Teanaway Advisory Committee and staff from the departments of Natural Resources and Fish and Wildlife on Wednesday, Oct. 24 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Putnam Centennial Center in Cle Elum to kick off the final comment period.
https://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/final-chance-comment-how-you-want-play-teanaway
📢LOCAL MEETINGS FOR NEXT WEEK & AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS:
Clallam County Meetings:
CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION WORK SESSION FOR 10/ 22/ 18
http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1129
Agenda highlights:
Clallam Bay/Sekiu Community Meeting
October 22,2018 at 5 p.m. Sekiu Gommunity Center - 42 Rice Street
http://clallam.granicus.com/DocumentViewer.php?file=clallam_616d565c3c56847f919840c6c1d9033e.pdf&view=1
Agenda highlight: Clallam Bay/Sekiu Sewer update.
CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING FOR 10/ 23/ 18
http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=398
Agenda highlights: Public hearings
PORT OF PORT ANGELES SPECIAL MEETING CALLED 10/ 23/ 18
Proposed agenda: October 23, 2018 at 8:00am (Special Commission Meeting)
• Budget Work Session – Present preliminary operating 2019 budget
• North Olympic Development Council proposed lease
• Arrow Marine Lease Performance Security Review
https://portofpa.com/Calendar.aspx?EID=509
CITY OF SEQUIM COUNCIL MEETING FOR 10/ 22/ 18
https://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1956
Agenda highlight: Resolution R2018-24 Adopting 2018 Comprehensive Plan Amendments
SCHOOL DISTRICT 121 BOARD MEETING CALLED
7:00pm
PASD Board Meeting
When: Thu, October 25, 7pm – 9pm
Where: Port Angeles School District, 216 E 4th St, Port Angeles, WA 98362.
JEFFERSON COUNTY MEETINGS:
PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL FINANCE AND BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA
http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=617
Agenda Highlight: Property Taxes
CITY OF FORKS AGENDA FOR 10/ 22/ 18
http://forkswashington.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/agenda102218.pdf
Agenda highlight: Discussion item; Countywide planning policy.
PORT OF PORT TOWNSEND MEETING CALLED
October 24: (No Public Workshop) 5:30 pm Business Meeting & 1st Public Hearing on 2019 Draft Budget.
http://portofpt.com/about-us/port-commission/meeting-agendas-and-minutes/
JEFFERSON COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING FOR 10/ 22/ 18
https://media.avcaptureall.com/session.html?sessionid=f1862c2a-f995-4baf-b3e2-1b00a391ff0d&prefilter=845,5958
Agenda highlight: AGREEMENT, Amendment No. 1re: Nearshore Education & Outreach Program; In the Amount of $930; Washington State University, Jefferson County Extension; Northwest Straits Marine Conservation Foundation.
🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌏🌏🌏🌏🌏🌏🌏🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍
🕂He's in your corner
WEEKLY BIBLE VERSE: Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.---Psalm 51:12 NIV
Weekly Bible Study
How Should We Treat People of Other Races?
No one can deny that problems exist between people of different races and nationalities? Historically, majority groups have abused and mistreated those in the minority. What does the Bible say about this?---Gospel Way
https://www.gospelway.com/topics/christian_life/race_relations.art.php
Free bible studies (WBS)
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/
Learn english using the bible as text (WEI)
http://www.worldenglishinstitute.org/
(Join us in worship every Sunday starting at 10:30AM Church of Christ)
http://www.pacofc.org/index.php
👲Riddle Genie
From, Squigly's Featured Games
last week's question: An old man had been browsing for some time. He finally walked up to the girl behind the counter and handed her a book. She looked at the tag on the inside cover and said, "That's 4.50 please." The man handed her the money and promptly walked away without the book. The girl saw him leave empty-handed but she didn't call out to him in any way. Why?
Last week's answer: The old man was paying a fine for an overdue book in a library.
New Question: A miller asks to marry the king's daughter. The king makes a deal with the miller and says he will write "Yes," on one card and "No" on another card. The miller will have to draw one card in front of the whole village. The night before the miller was to draw the card he heard that the king was going to write no on both cards. How can the miller be sure he gets to marry the king's daughter?
Answer next week: He draws his card, rips it up and tells the king to read what’s on the card that isn’t ripped. The king will draw the "No" card so the people will think the millers card said, "Yes."
The Port Angeles Globe is a weekly publication, published every Saturday by, Peter Ripley, Publisher.
