THE PORT ANGELES GLOBE: February 2022

Saturday, February 26, 2022

Kilmer, Cantwell, Murray, Celebrate $7.7 Million Federal Grant for Kitsap Transit Zero Emission Passenger Ferry.

https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-cantwell-murray-celebrate-77-million-federal-grant-for-kitsap-transit-zero-emission-passenger-ferry

Bremerton, WA – Today, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) and U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) announced that Kitsap Transit will receive $7,700,000 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Passenger Ferry Grant Program. The funding will help Kitsap Transit replace a passenger-only diesel-powered vessel on the Port Orchard and Annapolis routes with a new passenger-only, zero emission battery-electric ferry. The proposed battery-electric, passenger-only ferry vessel will increase passenger capacity to accommodate 150 passengers and aims to reduce emissions, reduce maintenance costs, and nearly eliminate engine noise. The new vessel, which does not yet have a name, is expected to be delivered in early 2026.

“Having the federal government step up and assist Kitsap Transit in its efforts to provide ferry service to folks in our region has been a priority for me – and for our community,” said Rep. Kilmer. “This is big news because it will help Kitsap Transit reduce emissions, improve existing services, and provide greater public access in getting people where they need to go. And it’s also big news for local taxpayers and ferry passengers because the costs of vessel replacement won’t be borne just by folks in our neck of the woods. These federal investments are winners for our planet and for our economy!”

“We are extremely thankful for this grant and for the FTA’s support of Kitsap Transit’s local ferry system,” said Kitsap Transit Executive Director John Clauson. “I’m also grateful for the support our grant application received from U.S Congressman Derek Kilmer and Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, who have pushed for investments in clean transportation infrastructure.”

“This $7.7 million Passenger Ferry Grant will fully fund Kitsap Transit’s replacement of the Admiral Pete foot ferry. The new zero-emission, all-electric passenger ferry is critical to helping us reduce maritime emissions, and will increase passenger capacity to better serve more than 1,000 daily riders on the Port Orchard and Annapolis routes,” said Senator Cantwell. “As the population of Kitsap County continues to grow and ferry traffic increases throughout the region, it’s important that we invest in more efficient green, zero-emission transportation to connect residents to their families, jobs, and the greater Puget Sound.”

“Like so many others in our state, ferries are a part of my commute, so I know first-hand just how important it is that they are running on schedule and safely to get people where they need to go,” said Senator Murray. “That's why I work every year on the Appropriations Committee, and why I fought to include in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, funding to not only fix our ferries, but also to electrify and modernize our ferry fleets, and upgrade our ports. Today's announcement is a big win for our environment and Washington state's ferry riders—and thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we're going to be seeing more announcements like this one in the future that will mean shorter and more reliable commutes for people across Puget Sound."

On Feb. 8, 2022, Washington’s state legislative leaders introduced a $16 billion transportation package that would provide Kitsap Transit $6.5 million to support the all-electric ferry project.

“This FTA grant, coupled with funding from the state’s historic transportation package, will help us build and support a sustainable, environmentally friendly fleet,” Clauson said. “These two funding sources will support the construction of an all-electric local ferry and the installation of infrastructure necessary to charge the vessel.”

Washington state is home to the largest ferry system in the nation. Replacing this passenger-only diesel vessel with a new zero-emission battery-electric ferry will help Kitsap Transit align with federal goals to reduce transit emissions. In September 2021, Rep. Kilmer wrote to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in support of Kitsap Transit’s grant application.

The Admiral Pete, the foot-ferry currently serving the Port Orchard and Annapolis routes, was built in 1994, can only carry 120 passengers, and has resulted in costly maintenance needs as the vessel has aged. The Port Orchard and Annapolis routes serve more than 1,000 passengers daily, two of Kitsap Transit’s most efficient passenger-per-hour routes. In addition to replacing the aging ferry, the project will also help establish electric charging infrastructure at the Bremerton terminal. Fast, frequent, and reliable ferry service will provide local connections between Annapolis, Bremerton, and Port Orchard, where passengers can connect to Kitsap Transit bus service at Port Orchard and Annapolis, and connect to either fast-ferry service or Washington State Ferry service with connections to downtown Seattle from Bremerton.

The Passenger Ferry Grant Program funds capital projects that help eligible project sponsors support existing passenger ferry service, establish new ferry service, and upgrade ferry boats, terminals, and related facilities and equipment. The grants also help transit agencies and ferry companies offset the considerable cost of introducing new, climate-friendly propulsion technologies.

Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, signed by President Biden on November 15, 2021, the Passenger Ferry Grant Program will not only continue but will also be complemented by two new passenger ferry competitive grant programs, including:

Up to $2 billion for Ferry Service for Rural Communities to improve access and mobility in areas where ferry service is a critical link for communities

Up to $500 million for an Electric or Low-Emitting Ferry pilot program to support the transition of passenger ferries to low- or zero-emission technologies, which will help fight the climate crisis

IN OTHER HEADLINES FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO DC.

Cantwell: With Aviation Jobs Program a Success, Now “Aviation is Starting to Hire” in Washington

Cantwell: “This took everything for us to do to save our competitive nature here in the Pacific Northwest, to keep complex, quality metal and plastic parts being assembled and made for aerospace here in Washington state.”

https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-with-aviation-jobs-program-a-success-now-aviation-is-starting-to-hire-in-washington

Washington Ports Can Compete for $450M to Improve Port Efficiency & Supply Chain Resiliency, Thanks to Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

Cantwell fought to secure historic $2.25B investment to upgrade port infrastructure, boost competitiveness and move goods faster

SEATTLE, WA — Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, announced that the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) has opened the application process for $450 million in grant opportunities under the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP). Sen. Cantwell led the fight to secure an historic investment of $2.25 billion over five years for the program in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/washington-ports-can-compete-for-450m-to-improve-port-efficiency-and-supply-chain-resiliency-thanks-to-bipartisan-infrastructure-law

Senator Murray Meets with Seattle Restaurant Owners in Continued Push for Federal Relief for Washington State Small Businesses

Senator Murray is currently pushing to secure additional funding for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which would cover all existing applications to the program that have not yet been met.

https://www.murray.senate.gov/senator-murray-meets-with-seattle-restaurant-owners-in-continued-push-for-federal-relief-for-washington-state-small-businesses/

Senator Murray Celebrates the U.S. Women’s National Team’s Milestone Victory in Their Fight For Equal Pay

Senator Murray: “I continue to be inspired by the Women’s National Team for demanding equal pay for equal work and proving to the country that change is possible when you stand up for what’s right.”

https://www.murray.senate.gov/senator-murray-celebrates-the-u-s-womens-national-teams-milestone-victory-in-their-fight-for-equal-pay/

STATE NEWS HEADLINES:

State Public Works Board accepting broadband construction loan applications through April 26.

Over $19.9 million available for projects providing broadband to unserved Washington communities.

https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news/press-releases/state-public-works-board-accepting-broadband-construction-loan-applications-through-april-26/

Spokane’s Paul Trautman named chair of state Affordable Housing Advisory Board.

New chair will focus on understanding trends in Washington’s rental and homeownership markets and plans to work toward a cohesive picture of housing need, availability and affordability.

https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news/spokanes-paul-trautman-named-chair-of-state-affordable-housing-advisory-board/

Commerce names Alison Beason and Carolyn Busch to industry sector director posts.

OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington State Department of Commerce Office of Economic Development and Competitiveness appointed two new industry sector directors this month. Alison Beason joined the team in January as Director/Sector Lead for Life Science and Global Health for the life science and global health industry. Carolyn Busch was appointed to the new position of Director of Workforce Innovation and Industry Sector Program Coordinator.

https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news/commerce-names-alison-beason-and-carolyn-busch-to-industry-sector-director-posts/

Environmental penalties issued for the 4th quarter of 2021.

OLYMPIA –

The Washington Department of Ecology issued $327,700 in penalties of $1,000 or more from October through December 2021. This includes a $304,000 fine to Tiegs LLC for illegally diverting water from the Columbia River in Franklin County without a water right. A detailed list of the violations and resulting penalties is available in the table below.

https://ecology.wa.gov/About-us/Who-we-are/News/2022/Feb-23-4th-Quarter-penalty-summary

State announces full closure to coastal steelhead fishing to support conservation following indications of lower-than-expected returns.

https://wdfw.wa.gov/news/state-announces-full-closure-coastal-steelhead-fishing-support-conservation-following

Fish and Wildlife Commission heard briefings on European green crab and wildlife area planning at February meeting.

https://wdfw.wa.gov/news/fish-and-wildlife-commission-heard-briefings-european-green-crab-and-wildlife-area-planning

Inslee appoints two judges to King County Superior Court.

Gov. Jay Inslee announced two new appointments today to the King County Superior Court, Haydee Vargas and Jason Holloway. Vargas will replace Judge Dean Lum, who retired in January. Holloway will replace Judge Catherine Moore, who retires Feb. 25.

https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-appoints-two-judges-king-county-superior-court

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES:

As Security Council meets on Ukraine crisis, Russia announces start of ‘special military operation’.

“President Putin, stop your troops from attacking Ukraine, give peace a chance,” Secretary-General António Guterres urged Wednesday evening at the start of an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, the body's second late night session this week.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/02/1112592

Baby formula marketing ‘pervasive, misleading and aggressive’ – UN report.

Parents and pregnant women globally are exposed to aggressive marketing for baby formula milk, according to a report launched jointly by two UN agencies on Tuesday.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/02/1112452

First Person : I don’t want to die in the body of a man.

A transgender woman in Haiti has said she does not want to die in a man's body, and hopes to leave her native country to fulfill her dream of transitioning from being a man to a woman. Semi Alisha Fermond works with transgender people at Kay Trans Ayiti (the Creole name for Trans House Haiti) and is an activist with the UNDP and UNAIDS-supported organization Community Action for the Integration of Vulnerable Haitians (ACIFVH).

https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/02/1112312

UN condemns brutal killing of eight polio workers in Afghanistan.

The United Nations has condemned the killing of eight polio vaccination workers in four locations in northern Afghanistan on Thursday, the first such attacks since nationwide immunization campaigns resumed last November.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/02/1112612

Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at a UN Security Council Briefing on Iraq--USUN

https://usun.usmission.gov/remarks-by-ambassador-linda-thomas-greenfield-at-a-un-security-council-briefing-on-iraq-3/

Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at a UN Security Council Emergency Meeting on Ukraine in Response to Russia’s Attack on Ukraine--USUN

https://usun.usmission.gov/remarks-by-ambassador-linda-thomas-greenfield-at-a-un-security-council-emergency-meeting-on-ukraine-in-response-to-russias-attack-on-ukraine/

Sanctioning NS2AG, Matthias Warnig, and NS2AG’s Corporate Officers---US STATE DEPT.

https://www.state.gov/sanctioning-ns2ag-matthias-warnig-and-ns2ags-corporate-officers/

Russian Forces in Position to Attack Ukraine, Kirby Says--DOD

https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/2944325/russian-forces-in-position-to-attack-ukraine-kirby-says/

NATIONAL HEADLINES:

Education Department Announces $35 Million Competition to Improve Teacher Quality

Program Aims to Recruit, Prepare, Retain and Support Teachers with a Focus on Equity, Diversity, and Increasing the Educator Pipeline.

https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/education-department-announces-35-million-competition-improve-teacher-quality

USDA Commits $215 Million to Enhance the American Food Supply Chain

Department Will Make Available $215 Million for Projects That Will Promote Competition and Increase Resiliency and Create Economic Opportunity in Rural America.

https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2022/02/24/usda-commits-215-million-enhance-american-food-supply-chain

STATEMENT FROM SECRETARY MARCIA L. FUDGE ON BLACK HOMEOWNERSHIP REMAINING LOWER THAN A DECADE AGO DESPITE THE U.S. HOMEOWNERSHIP RATE EXPERIENCING LARGEST ANNUAL INCREASE ON RECORD.

https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_22_029

Justice Department Sues to Block UnitedHealth Group’s Acquisition of Change Healthcare

Acquisition Would Allow Health Care Giant to Use Competitively Sensitive Claims Data of Hundreds of Millions of Americans to Reduce Competition and Innovation to the Detriment of Health Insurance Consumers--DOJ

https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-sues-block-unitedhealth-group-s-acquisition-change-healthcare

Federal Reserve Board announces $20.4 million penalty against the National Bank of Pakistan, a foreign bank operating in the United States and headquartered in Pakistan, for anti-money laundering violations--THE FED

https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/enforcement20220224a.htm

US DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ANNOUNCES APPRENTICESHIP BUILDING AMERICA PROGRAM, $113M IN AVAILABLE FUNDS TO STRENGTHEN, MODERNIZE REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIPS--DEPT. OF LABOR

https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/eta/eta20220223

The Year in Trade: Diving into the 2021 Numbers

2021 was a record year for trade in America. Both exports and imports saw the highest year-over-year growth rates ever as they bounced back from pandemic-related drops in 2020.-- US CHAMBER of COMMERCE.

https://www.uschamber.com/international/trade-agreements/the-year-in-trade-diving-into-the-2021-numbers

FDA Approves Treatment for Wider Range of Patients with Heart Failure.

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-treatment-wider-range-patients-heart-failure

HEADLINES from other sources:

Remember When Biden Promised to 'Restore the World Order'?--PJ MEDIA

https://pjmedia.com/news-and-politics/rick-moran/2022/02/25/remember-when-biden-promised-to-restore-the-world-order-n1561834

Failing to Understand Evil: Then and Now

Though there is no immediate “cure” for evil, free nations can control its spread.--Patriot Post

https://patriotpost.us/opinion/86487-failing-to-understand-evil-then-and-now-2022-02-24

The Bravery of the Ukrainian Defenders of Serpent Island Will Never Be Forgotten

The defenders of that small piece of Ukrainian earth might still carry off the prize of history.--American Spectator

https://spectator.org/the-bravery-of-the-ukrainian-defenders-of-serpent-island-will-never-be-forgotten/

Rittenhouse: 'Cowardly' Biden Must Apologize for 'Supremacist' Dig---News Max

https://www.newsmax.com/newsmax-tv/kyle-rittenhouse-joe-biden/2022/02/25/id/1058581/

Did We Provoke Putin's War in Ukraine?--CNSNEWS

https://www.cnsnews.com/index.php/commentary/patrick-j-buchanan/did-we-provoke-putins-war-ukraine

LOCAL MEETINGS

Clallam County Meetings:

Clallam Commissioner work session for 2/28/22

https://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1304

* Agreement with Washington State Department of Ecology for furthering management of solid waste (2e)

Clallam County Commission Board meeting for 3/1/22

https://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=7306

* Memorandum of Understanding with City of Forks for additional funding for their waste water treatment facility.

City of Port Angeles Council meeting for 3/1/22

https://www.cityofpa.us/DocumentCenter/View/11224/CC-Agenda-Packet-03022022

* “A” Street Substation Electrical Switchgear Upgrade – Contract Award

City of Sequim Council meeting for 2/28/22

https://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/2555

City of Forks Council meeting for 2/28/22

https://forkswashington.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Agenda-20220228.pdf

Clallam County PUD meeting for 2/28/22

https://clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/2-28-22-WEB-Packet.pdf

OMC Board meeting for 3/2/22

https://www.olympicmedical.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/AGENDA-March-2-2022.pdf

JEFFERSON COUNTY MEETINGS:

Jefferson County Commission meeting for 2/28/22

https://media.avcaptureall.cloud/meeting/00935344-9d4e-44fd-b6ea-9fb345043d1b

Weekly devotional

BIBLE VERSE: 1 John 4:9 (New International Version)

This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.

Weekly Bible Study: Are We Condemning Those Who Never Heard the Gospel?--by Matthew W. Bassford

http://lavistachurchofchrist.org/LVarticles/AreWeCondemningThoseWhoNeverHeardTheGospel.html

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)

1233 E Front St, Port Angeles, WA 98362

The Chosen: About the life of Christ

https://studios.vidangel.com/the-chosen

The Port Angeles Globe is a weekly Publication, every Saturday-- Publisher, Peter Ripley

Your donation is appreciated.

Saturday, February 19, 2022

COVID-19 trends give leaders confidence to look towards next phase of pandemic response

With dropping hospitalization rates, improving vaccination rates, and broad access to masks and tests, Gov. Jay Inslee today announced the state can soon move into a less restrictive phase of the COVID-19 response. The lifting of statewide measures does not prohibit local governments from the ability to enact measures in response to COVID-19 activity in their communities.

https://medium.com/wagovernor/covid-19-trends-give-leaders-confidence-to-look-towards-next-phase-of-pandemic-response-a46340dd2997

IN OTHER STATE NEWS....

Bird flu making its way through the U.S.

https://wastatedeptag.blogspot.com/2022/02/bird-flu-making-its-way-through-us.html

If you want to protect your flock from avian influenza, now is the time to get serious about biosecurity.

What started last year with detections of avian influenza abroad, has now entered the United States via the Atlantic Flyway (north-south flyway for migratory birds in the Americas). The disease was first confirmed in wild waterfowl, specifically dabbling ducks, in North and South Carolina.

Last week, USDA has confirmed H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a commercial turkey flock in Indiana. This week detections were seen in a flock of commercial broiler chickens in Fulton County, Kentucky and a backyard flock of mixed species birds in Fauquier County, Virginia.

State and federal officials, as well as the commercial poultry producers continue to react swiftly to contain the disease and establish a Control Area, or quarantine zone. The unified emergency response, epidemiological investigation, and surveillance efforts are in progress.

During routine surveillance by USDA’s Wildlife Services officials detected “Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza” (LPAI) in wild waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway. These waterfowl can carry and spread the virus without appearing sick. While HPAI detections have not been made near Washington yet, it is time to get serious about biosecurity to protect your flock.

The best way to prevent birds from becoming infected is to keep the virus from reaching your birds in the first place. That means learning the signs of infection and practicing good biosecurity. Signs of HPAI infection may include: nasal discharge and sneezing, sudden death (with or without clinical signs), decreased feed or water intake, swollen and or purple colored wattles, combs, and legs, decreased egg production, and more. While there are many elements to biosecurity, here are a few basics.

Limit contact with your birds

Do not allow visitors and animals to have access to your birds. People who work with your birds should not own or be around other birds.

Anyone that must interact with your birds should wear disposable boot covers, rubber boots, or have the ability to clean and disinfect their shoes before and after their visit. During periods of heightened disease risk, bring your birds inside or under cover if at all possible and limit contact with wild waterfowl and their droppings.

Keep it clean

Have dedicated shoes and clothing for handling your birds. In addition, scrub shoes with a scrub brush to remove droppings, mud, and debris before cleaning and disinfecting Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, or apply a disinfectant, such as hand sanitizer, before entering your bird area. Disposable latex gloves are another valuable addition to your toolbox and can help prevent the spread of disease.

Don't bring disease home

If you visit a place that has birds or where bird owners may visit, like a feed store, clean and disinfect your vehicle and anything else that travelled with you. Shower and change clothes before visiting your flock.

Keep new birds separate from the flock for at least 30 days and only purchase birds from National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP) approved sources. This also applies to any birds that have recently returned from fairs or exhibitions. They may have been exposed to disease while they were away and may look healthy at first.

Don't share equipment, feed, or other items such as cages with other bird owners. If you must share equipment, ensure that it has been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected first.

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) program has a detailed checklist to enhance your flock’s biosecurity efforts, and other useful tips may be found at the Defend the Flock Resource Center.

Please report any unusual or high rates of illness or death in your flocks to the WSDA Sick Bird Hotline at 1-800-606-3056. Learn more at agr.wa.gov/birdflu

Together, we can keep our birds safe and protected from avian influenza.

30 ways to reduce food waste in Washington

Statewide plan calls for policy changes, investments, and education to create a more resilient food system--DOE

https://ecology.wa.gov/Blog/Posts/February-2022/30-ways-to-reduce-food-waste-in-Washington

Longview paper mill fined $68,000 for water quality violations

LONGVIEW –

Repeated water quality violations at the North Pacific Paper Company LLC (NORPAC) mill in Longview led to a $68,000 penalty from the Washington Department of Ecology. Pollution above permitted levels can negatively impact human health and the environment. ---DOE

https://ecology.wa.gov/About-us/Who-we-are/News/2022/Feb-16-NORPAC-penalty

A wealth of razor clams on coastal beaches means more tentative digging dates planned this spring.

https://wdfw.wa.gov/news/wealth-razor-clams-coastal-beaches-means-more-tentative-digging-dates-planned-spring

Inslee appoints Norma Rodriguez to the Benton & Franklin Counties Superior Court.

Gov. Jay Inslee today announced the appointment of Norma Rodriguez to the Benton & Franklin Counties Superior Court. She will replace Judge Cameron Mitchell, who is retiring on March 11.

https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-appoints-norma-rodriguez-benton-franklin-counties-superior-court

Commissioner Hilary Franz Introduces “Watershed Resilience Action Plan” for Salmon Recovery in the Snohomish River Watershed.

https://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/wrap

FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO DC:

Kilmer, Newhouse Introduce Legislation to Spur Growth in Blue Energy, Create Jobs in Washington

Tacoma, WA – Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (WA-06) and Dan Newhouse (WA-04) introduced the Blue Energy Innovation Act – bipartisan legislation which aims to redouble America’s efforts to harness the blue economy and reassert the United States as the global leader in the research and development of blue energy technologies.

https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-newhouse-introduce-legislation-to-spur-growth-in-blue-energy-create-jobs-in-washington

Kilmer Calls for Additional Support for Washington’s Local Restaurants

Tacoma, WA – Today, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) joined Rep. Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and members of the Washington congressional delegation in a letter to congressional leadership urging them to replenish the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) or provide additional financial relief to restaurants in Washington state by any means necessary. Please find the letter text and list of delegation signers here.

https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-calls-for-additional-support-for-washingtons-local-restaurants

Cantwell Says Rising Sea Level Projections Underscore Need for Action on Coastal Resiliency

NOAA-led report projects a century of sea level rise in next 30 years

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, Chair of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation reacted to a NOAA-led report released today which predicts sea levels along the U.S. coastline will rise an additional 10-12 inches by 2050 – as much as we have experienced over the last 100 years. According to the report, sea levels along the Washington state coastline are expected to rise an average of four to six inches, underscoring the need to ensure coastal communities have the resources to build resiliency and adapt to climate change.

https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-says-rising-sea-level-projections-underscore-need-for-action-on-coastal-resiliency

Washington State Labor Leader Max Vekich Officially Sworn-In as a Federal Maritime Commissioner

Labor leader and Aberdeen, Washington native was confirmed by the Senate 51-43 last week.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation released the following statement after Max Vekich was officially sworn-in as a Federal Maritime Commissioner. The Commission is responsible for regulating agreements between American exporters and the shipping companies that carry their goods to ensure they are fair and competitive.

https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/washington-state-labor-leader-max-vekich-officially-sworn-in-as-a-federal-maritime-commissioner

Senator Murray Helps Pass Bill to Provide Health Care for Post-9/11 Toxic-Exposed Veterans

Earlier this month Senator Murray helped introduce the Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act

The bill would expand health care access for Post-9/11 combat veterans, including those suffering from conditions caused by toxic exposures.

https://www.murray.senate.gov/senator-murray-helps-pass-bill-to-provide-health-care-for-post-9-11-toxic-exposed-veterans/

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES:

New environmental report offers solutions for ‘triple planetary crisis’

Deadly wildfires, noise pollution and other looming environmental threats could cause widespread ecological damage, and need to be urgently addressed, the UN Environment Program (UNEP) said in a new report published on Thursday.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/02/1112162

Child sex abuse in Madagascar ‘widespread and tolerated’

In Madagascar, child sex abuse is “widespread and tolerated” in tourist hotspots, UN-appointed rights experts said on Thursday.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/02/1112152

Haiti at ‘crossroads’ entering post-earthquake reconstruction.

Haiti is once more at a ‘crossroads’, six months after a devastating earthquake hit the south-west of the country, according to the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/02/1112102

Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield During a Telephonic Background Briefing Before a UN Security Council Meeting on the Minsk Agreements.--USUN

https://usun.usmission.gov/remarks-by-ambassador-linda-thomas-greenfield-during-a-telephonic-background-briefing-before-a-un-security-council-meeting-on-the-minsk-agreements/

Explanation of Position on Item 15 at the ECOSOC Ad Hoc Plenary Meeting--USUN

https://usun.usmission.gov/explanation-of-position-on-item-15-at-the-ecosoc-ad-hoc-plenary-meeting/

NATIONAL HEADLINES:

Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s Call with Secretary General of Japan’s National Security Secretariat Akiba Takeo---WH

Defense Secretary Says U.S. Commitment to NATO Defense 'Ironclad'---DOD

https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/2938530/defense-secretary-says-us-commitment-to-nato-defense-ironclad/

Individual Pleads Guilty to Acting Within the United States on Behalf of Russian Government--DOJ

https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/individual-pleads-guilty-acting-within-united-states-behalf-russian-government

USDA Announces $50 Million in Grants Awarded to States to Support the Seafood Industry.

https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2022/02/14/usda-announces-50-million-grants-awarded-states-support-seafood

Operators of Investment Coaching Scheme Banned from Industry and Ordered to Pay Millions in Redress to Defrauded Consumers--FTC

https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2022/02/operators-investment-coaching-scheme-banned-industry-ordered-pay

NEWS STORIES FROM OTHER SOURCES:

VP Harris Finally Focused on Securing the Border. No, Not Ours—Ukraine's.--PJ MEDIA

https://pjmedia.com/news-and-politics/rick-moran/2022/02/18/vp-harris-finally-focused-on-securing-the-border-no-not-ours-ukraines-n1560252

Put Down the Torch. Pick Up a Book---NATIONAL REVIEW

https://www.nationalreview.com/2022/02/put-down-the-torch-pick-up-a-book/

The CIA Got Caught Spying On Americans Again. It’s Time For Congress To Make Them Stop---THE FEDERALIST

https://thefederalist.com/2022/02/17/the-cia-got-caught-spying-on-americans-again-its-time-for-congress-to-make-them-stop/

Virginia Schools ‘Not Going to Be Able’ to Keep Mask Mandates, Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears Says--DAILY SIGNAL

https://www.dailysignal.com/2022/02/18/virginia-schools-not-going-to-be-able-to-keep-mask-mandates-lt-gov-winsome-sears-says/

Pentagon audit says dozens of potentially dangerous Afghans let loose in U.S.--Washington Times

https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2022/feb/18/pentagon-audit-says-dozens-of-potentially-dangerou/

LOCAL MEETINGS:

CLALLAM COUNTY MEETINGS:

Clallam County Work session for 2/22/22

https://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1303

Clallam County Board meeting for 2/22/22

https://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=7305

City of Port Angeles Council Meeting for 2/22/22

https://www.cityofpa.us/DocumentCenter/View/11208/02222022-Special-Meeting

Port of Port Angeles Commission meeting 2/22/22

https://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02222022-574

PASD Board Meeting

When: Thu, February 24, 7pm – 9pm

Where: 905 W 9th St, Port Angeles, WA 98363, USA

Description

Regular meetings are usually scheduled on the second and fourth Thursday of each month, beginning at 7:00 p.m. All meetings are open to the public. Call 360.565.3702 for information.

JEFFERSON COUNTY MEETINGS:

Jefferson County Board meeting for 2/22/22

https://media.avcaptureall.cloud/meeting/92f9cada-8ab3-4820-bd87-b01ed2a59e47

City of Port Townsend Council meeting for 2/22/22

https://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=1695

Port of Port Townsend

2nd Monthly Meeting Agenda

Wednesday, February 23, 2022, 5:30 p.m.

https://portofpt.com/event/feb-23-port-commission-meeting/

Weekly devotional

BIBLE VERSE: 1 John 4:11-12 (New International Version)

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

Weekly Bible Study: Are the Gospel Writers Credible? by Wayne Jackson

The writers of the Gospel accounts — Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John — quite definitely affirm that Jesus Christ claimed to be the Son of God, and that he performed miracles to authenticate that affirmation.

http://lavistachurchofchrist.org/LVarticles/AreTheGospelWritersCredible.html

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)

1233 E Front St, Port Angeles, WA 98362

The Chosen: About the life of Christ

https://studios.vidangel.com/the-chosen

The Port Angeles Globe is a weekly Publication, every Saturday-- Publisher, Peter Ripley

Your donation is appreciated.

Saturday, February 12, 2022

NEW GRANT NOW AVAILABLE FOR SMALL MEAT PROCESSORS

OLYMPIA – The application period is now open for a new Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) grant program to support small meat processing operations around the state.

https://agr.wa.gov/about-wsda/news-and-media-relations/news-releases?article=33708

Information about the WSDA Local Meat Processing Capacity Grants, including how to apply, can be found by visiting agr.wa.gov/grants.

The Washington State Legislature has provided $3.6 million for these grants. The purpose of the grant program is to increase access to livestock and poultry processing for small to midsize farmers and ranchers so they can better serve people in Washington State. The COVID-19 pandemic made it clear that there is a need for more meat processing services in Washington, to strengthen food supply chains and local food economies.

The WSDA Local Meat Processing Capacity Grants program will provide grants of up to $150,000 for small projects, and fund large projects between $150,000 and $750,000. To be eligible, small projects must be completed by June 30, 2022, while large projects must be completed by June 30, 2023.

The grants are meant to help small and midsize meat processors expand their capacity to serve small and midsize Washington farmers and ranchers selling meat and poultry products directly to consumers, stores, food hubs, restaurants, schools and other local buyers.

The deadline to apply for a small project grant is Feb. 28, while applicants for the large project grants have until March 7. WSDA will host a webinar on the application process at 9 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 9. Please visit the link to the WSDA Local Meat Processing Capacity Grants – Info Session to register and receive a Zoom link to participate.

To be eligible for the grants, the business applying must be owned and operated in Washington, with 75 employees or fewer. Non-profit or government entities providing access to meat processing services or equipment for livestock producers are also eligible.

The grant funds can be used for equipment, facility improvements, planning, and workforce development costs. An application guide with more details on eligibility requirements and examples of the types of expenses covered is available.

For more information, visit agr.wa.gov/grants or email smallfarmbiz@agr.wa.gov. The grant program is part of WSDA’s Focus on Food Initiative, ensuring safe, nutritious food is effectively produced and distributed throughout our state.

In other state headline news:

House passes AG Ferguson, Rep. Simmons bill to ensure that 4 million Washingtonians get help with their hospital bills.

OLYMPIA — The Washington state House has passed Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s bill to increase access to affordable health care for millions of Washingtonians by a bipartisan 63-33 vote. The measure now heads to the Senate for consideration.

https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/house-passes-ag-ferguson-rep-simmons-bill-ensure-4-million-washingtonians-get

Commerce awards nearly $19 million in infrastructure funding to boost affordable housing development in seven counties.

https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news/press-releases/commerce-awards-nearly-19-million-in-infrastructure-funding-to-boost-affordable-housing-development-in-seven-counties/

Workers affected by November floods might qualify for retroactive Disaster Unemployment Assistance.

OLYMPIA – Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) has been activated to help workers impacted by the floods in specific counties and tribal lands from Nov. 5 to Dec. 2, 2021. The federal declaration for the November storm events occurred on Jan. 5, 2022, and DUA benefits can be paid retroactively for weeks you were unemployed as a direct result of the disaster.

https://esd.wa.gov/newsroom/workers-affected-by-november-floods-might-qualify-for-retroactive-disaster-unemployment-assistance

WDFW approves 5 days of razor clam digging during evening low tides beginning Feb. 14

OLYMPIA – More razor clam digs are planned on coastal beaches as shellfish managers with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) today confirmed the next round of digging can proceed as planned from Feb. 14-18.

https://wdfw.wa.gov/news/wdfw-approves-5-days-razor-clam-digging-during-evening-low-tides-beginning-feb-14

WDFW to use drone to assess conditions at two North Puget Sound Region wildlife areas.

WDFW staff will conduct drone surveys at the Spencer Island Unit of the Snoqualmie Wildlife Area near Everett and the Island Unit of the Skagit Wildlife Area near Conway.

https://wdfw.wa.gov/news/wdfw-use-drone-assess-conditions-two-north-puget-sound-region-wildlife-areas

Inslee statement condemns RNC position on Capitol Insurrection.

Gov. Jay Inslee released a statement today on the Republican National Committee's decision to censure two of its own members of Congress for investigating the violent Jan. 6 insurrection at our nation's Capitol.

https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-statement-condemns-rnc-position-capitol-insurrection

Boots on the ground: Environmental service in partnership with Washington Tribes.

Partnerships are key to our Washington Conservation Corps (WCC) mission to restore the environment while providing service opportunities to young adults and military veterans. Our many partners include state and federal agencies and non-profit organizations. We also have a longstanding record teaming up with Washington Tribes.

https://ecology.wa.gov/Blog/Posts/February-2022/Boots-on-the-ground-Environmental-service-in-partn

From our congressional delegation to DC:

Empire Builder’s Facelift Revealed Today

Cantwell: “Rail passengers will enjoy cleaner, more reliable service.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, released the following statement after Amtrak began service of its new ALC-42 locomotives on the westbound Empire Builder line from Chicago to Seattle.

https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/empire-builders-facelift-revealed-today

Senators Cantwell, Murray Announce $138 Million for Washington State Transit Agencies

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray announce that $138 million in federal funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) is now available for transit agencies in Washington state.

https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-murray-announce-138-million-for-washington-state-transit-agencies

Kilmer Votes to Strengthen U.S. Postal Service

Washington, DC – On Tuesday, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) voted to support the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022, bipartisan legislation aimed at helping the U.S. Postal Service remain financially viable and ensuring it provides the high quality of service Americans expect and deserve. By saving billions in funding and increasing performance transparency the bipartisan legislation aims to continue reliable, on-time mail service to Washingtonians who rely on the Postal Service to receive paychecks, lifesaving prescriptions, tax returns and more. Rep. Kilmer spoke on the House floor in support of the legislation.

https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-votes-to-strengthen-us-postal-service

Senator Murray Announces Bipartisan Effort to Strengthen Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Programs

(Washington, D.C.) – Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee Chair, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), announced she and Ranking Member, Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) are working in a bipartisan way to reauthorize, improve, and expand federal mental health and substance use disorder programs.

https://www.murray.senate.gov/senator-murray-announces-bipartisan-effort-to-strengthen-mental-health-and-substance-use-disorder-programs/

Senator Murray Hails Opening of EU Markets for Washington Shellfish Industry

(Seattle, WA) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) celebrated an announcement by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) that the United States and European Union (EU) have concluded negotiations to allow for resumption of bilateral trade in bivalve molluscan shellfish.

https://www.murray.senate.gov/senator-murray-hails-opening-of-eu-markets-for-washington-shellfish-industry/

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES:

Africa on track to control pandemic this year but vigilance is key: WHO.

Africa is on track to control the COVID-19 pandemic this year if current trends continue, but vigilance will remain key, the head of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) regional office said on Thursday.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/02/1111662

Battle against Da’esh, a ‘long-term game’, Voronkov tells Security Council

The global fight against the shadowy, ever-morphing threat posed by the ISIL terrorist group - known officially as Da’esh - and its affiliates, remains a “long-term game” for which there are “no quick fixes,” the UN counter-terrorism chief told the Security Council on Wednesday.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/02/1111602

World Pulses Day empowers youth, for sustainable ‘agrifood’ systems.

The UN marks World Pulses Day on Thursday, this year celebrating how these nutritious beans, grains and seeds, crucial to so many cuisines worldwide, can empower youth to help achieve sustainable commercial farming (agrifood) systems.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/02/1111642

Remarks in Response to China and Russia at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Secretary-General’s Report on the Threat Posed by ISIS.

https://usun.usmission.gov/remarks-in-response-to-china-and-russia-at-a-un-security-council-briefing-on-the-secretary-generals-report-on-the-threat-posed-by-isis/

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s Interview with Bianna Golodryga on “CNN Newsroom”

https://usun.usmission.gov/ambassador-linda-thomas-greenfields-interview-with-bianna-golodryga-on-cnn-newsroom/

NATIONAL HEADLINES:

PRICES WEEK FACT SHEET: The Biden-⁠Harris Plan to Boost the Capacity of the Economy and Lower Costs for Working Families--WH

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/10/prices-week-fact-sheet-the-biden-harris-plan-to-boost-the-capacity-of-the-economy-and-lower-costs-for-working-families/

FDA Takes Steps Aimed at Fostering Development of Non-Addictive Alternatives to Opioids for Acute Pain Management

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-takes-steps-aimed-fostering-development-non-addictive-alternatives-opioids-acute-pain-management

Federal Register Notice: CDC’s updated Clinical Practice Guideline for Prescribing Opioids is now open for public comment

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/s0210-prescribing-opioids.html

EPA Announces $23 Million in Pollution Prevention Grant Opportunities, including $14 Million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding

Grants include emphasis on projects that address environmental justice and climate change.

https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-announces-23-million-pollution-prevention-grant-opportunities-including-14-million

HUD APPROVES AGREEMENT WITH LAS VEGAS HOUSING PROVIDERS RESOLVING CLAIMS OF DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced today that it has approved a Conciliation Agreement with Las Vegas landlord, Anwar Malik, and Malik’s property manager, Ahmad Sharif-Yazdi, to resolve allegations of discrimination brought by a prospective tenant with a disability. The Agreement resolves allegations that Malik and the property manager discriminated against the prospective tenant by refusing to rent a property to her because she had an assistance animal. Read the Agreement.

https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_22_023

HEADINES FROM OTHER SOURCES:

Freedom Protesters Defy Trudeau, Continue Blockade On Ambassador Bridge--Daily Wire

https://www.dailywire.com/news/freedom-protesters-defy-deadline-continue-blockade-on-ambassador-bridge

Fight Back Against the Woke Bullies Trying to Silence Conservatives.--PJ MEDIA

https://pjmedia.com/columns/blainepardoe/2022/02/11/fight-back-against-the-woke-bullies-trying-to-silence-conservatives-n1558476

As US Goes Bankrupt, How Many Foreign Crises Can It Afford?

It will cost almost $1 trillion per year to service the U.S. debt by 2031.--American Spectator

https://spectator.org/as-us-goes-bankrupt-how-many-foreign-crises-can-it-afford/

Freedom of Speech Protects Joe Rogan's Free Speech--NEWS MAX

https://www.newsmax.com/judgeandrewpnapolitano/joe-rogan-freedom-of-speech-spotify/2022/02/09/id/1056212/

Republicans Introduce Brutal 'HUNTER' Act After Biden Moves for Taxpayer-Funded Crack Pipes--WJ