Saturday, October 29, 2022

WSDA awards $8 million to improve fairgrounds across the state.

 

Amber Betts

WSDA Communications

Link Source: https://wastatedeptag.blogspot.com/2022/10/wsda-awards-8-million-to-improve.html

Prize-winning hog, best-in-show apple pie, blue-ribbon stuffed chicken, and the area’s largest squash are some of the awards seen at your local fair. You know the one? Yes, you do.


The moment you think of the local fair you begin to smell the scones, elephant ears, the animal barns, and the unique atmosphere of fun, comradery, and family. However, you might also remember the aging facilities, the concrete block bathrooms that have seen better days, and the bleachers that are somehow, still standing.


Capital improvement grants to the rescue


Washington State Department of Agriculture and the Washington State Legislature recognize the importance of Washington’s fairgrounds. During the pandemic, county fairs were used as vaccination centers; during wildfires, fairs are used to shelter people and livestock; and during the summer months, fairs educate the public about the importance of agriculture in our lives and to our state’s economy.

Since 2003, the legislature has helped fairs in their mission by awarding around $2 million each biennium for health and safety improvements to fairgrounds and facilities. In 2021, they emphasized the importance by awarding a whopping $8 million, enabling us to fund 78 projects across the state.

Fair organizers were able to submit applications for projects equal to or less than $250,000, for capital improvements.


What is a capital improvement?


A capital improvement is addition of a structural change or restoration of some part of the property that will improve the health and safety of fair goers.

What were the projects?

WSDA is funding 78 projects at fairs across the state.  Some projects are large and are part of even larger projects on their grounds. The smallest grant awarded was $5,500 for the installation of new sheep pens and barricades at the Pierce County Fair. To date, 15 projects are complete. Most of the rest are on track to be complete by May 31, 2023.


Projects include upgrades to electrical systems, upgrades to ventilation and filtration systems, replacing drain fields for restrooms, remodeling or constructing restrooms, repairing asphalt on fairgrounds, upgrades to livestock barns and ag buildings, reroofing, adding heating and air conditioning, and many others.


 If the legislature chooses to include funding to the fairs program in the next capital budget, the program will distribute grant applications for fairs next July. Check our website for future grants and for the full list of 2021-23 grant recipients.


In other State Headlines:

Judge grants AG Ferguson’s request for maximum $24.6M penalty against Facebook parent Meta.

OLYMPIA — A King County Superior Court judge today issued the maximum penalty of $24.6 million against Facebook’s parent company, Meta, in Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s campaign finance transparency lawsuit. Ferguson had requested the maximum penalty be imposed.


AG Ferguson: Judge dismisses Seattle Pacific University’s lawsuit to stop Attorney General inquiry into discrimination complaints.

OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson today announced that a federal judge dismissed Seattle Pacific University’s attempt to stop his office’s investigation into potential illegal discrimination by the university’s administration.


New Commerce Report: Time, trust, and technology key to small business success.

OLYMPIA, WA – Time, trust and technology are key to ensuring small businesses farthest from opportunity in Washington state have the right mix of technical assistance and financial resources to thrive.


State fines City of Everett after discharge of incompletely treated wastewater to Snohomish River.


Paid Family & Medical Leave premiums to increase in 2023.

OLYMPIA – Benefits for Washington’s Paid Family & Medical Leave program are an increasingly vital source of support for Washington workers. To keep pace with more people using the program, and as required by law, the premium rate will increase in 2023. 




NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO DC.


KILMER, MURRAY, CANTWELL DELIVER OVER $8 MILLION TO PORT OF PORT ANGELES TO IMPROVE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK, SPUR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.


KILMER, MURRAY, CANTWELL DELIVER OVER $25 MILLION TO PORT OF GRAYS HARBOR TO EXPAND EXPORT TERMINAL, SPUR ECONOMIC GROWTH.


Cantwell, Schrier, DelBene Demand “Immediate Support” from USFS to Help Prevent Landslides and Floods in Bolt Creek Fire Area

With winter weather approaching and U.S. Highway 2 under threat, letter to U.S. Forest Service calls for agency’s Burned Area Rehabilitation Program to treat area “as soon as possible.


Port of Seattle to Receive $17 Million Boost to Maritime Economy, Cantwell Announces

Funds will be used to construct new container storage yard and truck gate complex at Terminal 5


Sen. Murray, VP Harris Celebrate Electric School Buses Coming to WA via the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.



WORLD NEWS HEADLINES.


UN Security Council boosts commitment to fight digital terror.

A two-day meeting of the UN Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee in India has ended with the adoption of a document committing Member States to prevent and combat digital forms of terror, notably using drones, social media, and online terrorist financing.


The vital role of Syrian women in resolving bitter conflicts.

Throughout Syria’s civil war, women have risked their security to mediate the various conflicts that have affected their communities. Since international efforts to end the fighting have stalled, their role has grown in importance.


UN counter-terrorism committee pays tribute to victims of worldwide attacks.

“It is my appeal to all the representatives of States, to ensure there is no safe haven provided to any kind of terrorism whatsoever”: the words of Nidhi Chaphekar, a survivor of the 2016 Brussels terrorist attacks, opening a Special Meeting of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Committee in India on Friday.


Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly At a Conversation with Rising Leaders.


Remarks by Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield at a UN Security Council Meeting on Russia’s Unfounded Allegations of Biological Weapons Programs in Ukraine.



NATIONAL & BUSINESS HEADLINES


NATIONAL


Vice President Harris Details Action Plan Progress, Announces Nearly $1 Billion from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for Clean School Buses--WH


DOD Releases National Defense Strategy, Missile Defense, Nuclear Posture Reviews.

The Defense Department today for the first time released the public versions of three strategic documents — the National Defense Strategy, the Nuclear Posture Review and the Missile Defense Review — together after having developed both the classified and unclassified versions of all three in conjunction with one another.


Director Rachel Rossi of the Office for Access to Justice Delivers Keynote Remarks During the 2022 National Legal Aid & Defender Association Annual Conference.--DOJ


Education Department Unveils Final Rules to Protect Veterans and Service Members, Improve College Access for Incarcerated Individuals and Improve Oversight When Colleges Change Owners--Dept. of Education


HUD DISASTER RESOURCES

 HUD Announces Disaster Assistance for Puerto Rico

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today announced the implementation of federal disaster assistance, including a new package of waivers offering regulatory and administrative relief, to supplement Commonwealth and local recovery efforts in areas of Puerto Rico affected by Hurricane Fiona beginning on September 17, 2022, and continuing.



BUSINESS HEADLINES.


Treasury Announces $5 Billion in New Markets Tax Credit Awards to Revitalize Low-Income and Distressed Communities.


USDA Announces Early Release of Select Commodity Tables for Agricultural Projections to 2032.


Jamaican National Sentenced for Stealing Money from Elderly Americans through Jamaica-Based Lottery Scam--DOJ


IRS quickly moves forward with taxpayer service improvements; 4,000 hired to provide more help to people during 2023 tax season on phones.


FEDERAL APPEALS COURT FINDS PENNSYLVANIA POULTRY PROCESSING FACILITY IN CONTEMPT FOR FAILING TO PAY $162K IN PENALTIES, ADDRESS SAFETY VIOLATIONS



IN FOCUS!

Senator Murray Leads Washington State Delegation in Pushing for Increased Funding for Hanford Cleanup.

LINK SOURCE: https://www.murray.senate.gov/senator-murray-leads-washington-state-delegation-in-pushing-for-increased-funding-for-hanford-cleanup/


(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, led members of the Washington Congressional delegation in a letter to President Biden urging him to increase funding for the Hanford site cleanup through the Department of Energy (DOE)’s Office of Environmental Management (EM). The lawmakers urged the Administration to propose a budget that ensures the federal government can continue to meet its legal and moral obligation to clean up Hanford, including resources to help ensure that the state’s rivers are protected and beginning work on a High-Level Waste Facility. 


“The federal government has a legal and moral obligation to clean up the Hanford site and protect Hanford workers—it’s my job to make sure the administration is living up to that obligation,” said Senator Murray. “That’s why I’m proud to fight for increased federal funding for the Hanford site to support the next critical phase of the cleanup effort. No matter what, I’ll always have the backs of the Tri-Cities community and Hanford workers—and I’ll keep working across the aisle to deliver the resources we need for Hanford.”


Senator Murray has led the fight in Congress to secure funding for the cleanup at Hanford, protect workers, and support the Tri-Cities communities. Earlier this summer, she secured an unprecedented increase in President Biden’s budget request for Hanford site cleanup, putting that request at $2.613 billion for FY2023. Last month, Senator Murray introduced the Beryllium Testing Fairness Act which will help more Hanford workers and nuclear weapons complex workers across the country—both past and present—access care for diseases caused by beryllium exposure.


You can read the full letter here and below.


Dear President Biden,


As Members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation, we write to you regarding the importance of adequately funding the Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Environmental Management (EM) in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) budget and beyond. This is a top priority for our constituents, the state of Washington, the communities surrounding DOE’s Hanford Site, and regional Tribes.


As you know, this year marks the beginning of a very important milestone in cleanup at the site – the successful launch of the Tank Side Cesium Removal system. This is the first step in turning low-level waste into glass, and we commend the efforts at the site and the entire Tri-Cities community in supporting this major milestone.


While significant cleanup progress has been made over the years, it is of the utmost importance that the federal government fund cleanup efforts at adequate levels for both Richland Operations and the Office of River Protection and with changing needs in mind. We are proud to work in concert and ensure that Hanford has the resources it needs to address current projects and plan for emerging needs in the future.


We are also encouraged by the recent announcement between Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology) and DOE on an agreement to respond to tank waste issues. This may be a beginning of a new collaborative era between Ecology and DOE, one that we hope will result in considering all viable options for safely, efficiently, and effectively treating Hanford’s tank waste.


As design, engineering, and construction of the High-Level Waste Facility is added to the mission scope, it is imperative that your FY24 budget request reflects not only the necessary resources for this critical phase of Hanford cleanup operations, but also the need for continued adequate funding in the Richland Operations and Office of River Protection EM accounts for subsequent fiscal years. We urge the Administration to support an increased budget for the entire EM program to reflect the needs that continue to exist not only at Hanford, but at other sites across the country.


LOCAL MEETINGS.


CALLAM COUNTY MEETINGS.


Clallam County Commission work session for 10/31/22

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10312022-483


Clallam County Comission board meeting for 11/1/22

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11012022-484


Housing Solutions Committee meeting 11/4/22

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11042022-474


Port of Port Angeles Commission meeting for 11/1/22

https://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11012022-632


City of Port Angeles Council meeting for 11/1/22

https://www.cityofpa.us/DocumentCenter/View/12233/CC-Agenda-Packet-11012022-


OMC BOARD MEETING FOR 11/2/22

https://www.olympicmedical.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/AGENDA-November-2-2022.pdf





Weekly devotional

BIBLE VERSE:  Romans 12:1 (New King James Version)
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.
 

Weekly Bible Study 
The Authenticity of Mark 16:9-20, by Jim Snapps II
Does Mark 16:9-20 belong in the Bible?" The church has answered "Yes" for centuries. Many in the church still do. But in the 1800's, scholars questioned the originality of these 12 verses. Many scholars today take it for granted that the Gospel of Mark originally did not contain this passage. Its style and vocabulary seem somewhat abnormal. And the transition from Mark 16:8 to 16:9 is more like a non-transition. Furthermore, the two oldest manuscripts of Mark 16 – Codex Vaticanus (from about 325) and Codex Sinaiticus (from about 370) – do not contain these verses.


Free bible studies (WBS)
Learn English using the bible as text (WEI)

(Join us in worship every Sunday starting at 10:30AM Church of Christ)
  1233 E Front St, Port Angeles, WA 98362

 The Chosen: About the life of Christ
 
The Port Angeles Globe is a weekly Publication, every Saturday-- Publisher, Peter Ripley
Your donation is appreciated.

 This Week's Video:
 Why a HUGE ‘migration’ of gold to Asia should WORRY YOU
123,256 views  Oct 26, 2022  Bloomberg recently published a piece called, ‘The Gold Market’s Great Migration Sends Bullion Rushing East.’ The article notes that China has imported 160 TONS of gold since April, India has added 80 tons, Turkey 62, and the list goes on. Is the U.S. — or other Western nations — selling gold to China? And if so, why wouldn’t we be buying it, instead? Carol Roth, financial expert and author of ‘The War On Small Business,’ joins Glenn to make sense of this ‘head scratcher.’ She theorizes what’s REALLY going on with gold, and she explains why the U.S.’s lack of longterm thinking regarding gold, should worry you. 








HEADLINES FROM OTHER SOURCES:

What's Behind That Q3 GDP Growth? Is the Biden Recession Really Off?--PJ Media

Musk’s Twitter Purchase Starts to Sink In
The social media giant’s new owner wasted no time in making his presence felt.--Patriot Post

What Google Knows About the Elections
Americans care more about “learning to crochet” than the “climate emergency.”--American Spectator

Saturday, October 22, 2022

WSDA launches bilingual resource to help farmers reduce risk of foodborne illness.

Source Link: https://wastatedeptag.blogspot.com/2022/10/wsda-launches-bilingual-resource-to.html


From farm to plate is an idea we love to think about in agriculture. Imagine your food growing at the hard-working hands of a neighbor; their careful attention to every detail to make that carrot, or apple, or other produce grow perfectly.

The path that food takes before it arrives on your plate is long and has many steps. Along the way there are microorganisms everywhere. These little guys (the microorganisms I mean), can contaminate our food and cause widespread illness in our communities.


That is why cleaning and sanitizing every surface and tool that touches produce is vital to public health.


Not only is it important, but it’s also required of most farmers by the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule.


WSDA, along with our partners at the University of Georgia and New Mexico State University, developed an online-animated tool with three learning modules to help educators and farm managers reinforce fundamental cleaning and sanitizing concepts. It emphasizes how to select a sanitizer and monitor its concentration using test strips and titration kits. The interactive tool simulates how to follow proper monitoring procedures, evaluate results, and record findings. 


The modules are visually engaging and interactive, requiring users to apply critical thinking and realistic decision-making. All content is available in English and Spanish.


Asking for your help


Please take our 5-minute survey by October 30th. We want feedback from anyone implementing or educating on produce safety practices including:


¾    Farmers


¾    Packers and distributors


¾    Extension educators


¾    Government and non-profit employees


¾    Other agricultural professionals


 


To access the tool, visit https://farmsanitizing.nmsu.edu/



Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) Produce Safety Program developed this educational resource in partnership with University of Georgia and thanks to New Mexico State University’s Innovative Media Research and Extension Department for all design production.

Financial support for this educational resource was provided by the WSDA Food Safety Program, the WSDA Regional Markets Program, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The Test Strip Lab and the Titration Lab were supported by the FDA as part of a financial assistance award #U18FD005913 totaling $6,106,186 with 100 percent funded by FDA/HHS. The Introductory Animation and the How to Clean and Sanitize module, totaling $43,830, were 100 percent funded by the WSDA Food Safety and WSDA Regional Markets Programs. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by FDA/HHS, or the U.S. Government.



(2)

IN OTHER STATE NEWS HEADLINES.


Don’t “fall” victim to avian influenza as seasonal rains return.

It’s true, 30 days have passed since the latest detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a domestic flock in our state this year. The first case in 2022 was announced in May, since then, we’ve had a steady string of positive cases, until about 30 days ago.


CONSUMER ALERT: AG Ferguson shares top tips for avoiding common charity.

OLYMPIA — For this year’s International Charity Fraud Awareness Week, Oct. 17 to 21, Attorney General Bob Ferguson is urging Washingtonians to do research before donating and watch out for scammers seeking to take advantage of donations.


Court rules gold mining company violated the law more than 3,000 times in Okanogan County.

OLYMPIA — A federal judge has ruled that Crown Resources committed thousands of violations of the Clean Water Act in its operation of the Buckhorn Mountain gold mine in Okanogan County. The order comes as part of Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s ongoing environmental citizen suit against Crown Resources and Kinross Gold.


One company’s waste is another’s resource: Innovative projects looking to repurpose industrial waste receive $850K from new state program.

New Industrial Symbiosis grants support collaborative projects advancing the circular economy.


Join us Nov. 8 and 9 to learn how you might be impacted by lead and arsenic in your soil--DOE


Tackling Toxics: Aerospace company boosts production while reducing environmental impact.

Production Plating Industries (PPI), an aerospace product finishing company in Mukilteo, WA, redesigned the floorplan in their plating area to increase production and enhance their customer base. 


Commission to discuss land transactions, caribou periodic status review, shoreline armoring rule making, and more at upcoming meeting.


DNR Seeks Input on Proposed Carbon Project Parcels.

Public comment to inform Western Washington state trust lands to be entered into carbon markets to sequester carbon and generate revenue for state trust land beneficiaries.



NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO DC.


Washington state Wins $200M to Jumpstart EV Component Manufacturing and Bring Hundreds of New Jobs to Moses Lake

Funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will support build out of two new electric battery component manufacturing plants, supporting U.S. sourcing and manufacturing of electric vehicles.


Cantwell Celebrates Job-Creating NORPAC Paper Recycling Facility Upgrades in Longview

Cantwell: “I think it's a lesson for the entire nation … NORPAC answered the call … and saved a lot of jobs here in Cowlitz County.”


Senator Murray Secures $200 Million to Strengthen Battery Supply Chains, Boost Electric Vehicle Production, and Support Good-Paying Jobs in WA

New investments will help create jobs in Washington state to bolster battery supply chains, key step for bringing down energy costs and electric vehicle costs.


Senator Murray Secures $5 Million for Cle Elum Reservoir to Support Drought Resilience and Fish Migration

Senator Murray: “When Congress was negotiating final passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I did absolutely everything I could to secure funding to protect and recover our fish populations—including by supporting projects like the Cle Elum Pool Raise.”


(3) WORLD NEWS HEADLINES.


Security Council approves sanctions package for Haiti to quell gang violence.

The UN Security Council on Friday unanimously approved a sanctions regime for Haiti, targeting gang leaders and those who finance them, in the hope of easing months of violence and lawlessness which has fuelled a major humanitarian crisis.


INTERVIEW: Connection between human rights and climate change ‘must not be denied’

The right to life, food, development, self-determination, water and sanitation, and adequate housing, is being denied to millions of people because of climate change, the first UN Special Rapporteur on the Protection of Human Rights in the context of Climate Change, has told the General Assembly in his first formal report to the body.


UN rights chief deplores deadly use of force against protestors in Chad.

The UN human rights office, OHCHR, on Friday appealed for calm and restraint in Chad following a deadly crackdown on anti-government protests.


Ukraine: UN-led Grain Initiative helps anchor food supply, chart way out of crisis.

A new report from UN trade and development body UNCTAD published on Thursday shows how the UN-led Black Sea Grain Initiative has provided hope for millions impacted by rising prices and reduced supplies of staple foodstuffs from war-torn Ukraine.


At Interactive Dialogue, Deputy Secretary-General Highlights Member States, Resident Coordinators Relationship, Noting Both Progress, Needs for Growth.


Statement Following a Closed UN Security Council Meeting on Iran’s Transfer of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles to Russia.


The Impact of Sanctions and Export Controls on the Russian Federation.


General Says Iranian Drones, Troops Operating in Ukraine.



NATIONAL & BUSINESS HEADLINES



Department of Energy Awarding $2.8 Billion from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Boost Domestic Manufacturing

Administration Launching “American Battery Materials Initiative” to Strengthen Critical Mineral Supply Chains--WH


White House “Buy Clean” Convening Spurs New Commitments to Reduce Industrial Emissions and Support Made in America Steel, Concrete, and More--WH


Assistant Attorney General Clarke Delivers Remarks on Lawsuit Challenging Policy Barring Native Americans From Accessing South Dakota Hotel and Sports Lounge--DOJ


Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Delivers Remarks Following Meeting with German Minister of Justice Marco Buschmann.--DOJ


U.S. Secretary of Education Announces Recipients of the 2022 Terrel H. Bell Awards for Outstanding School Leadership.


ACIP Immunization Schedule Vote--CDC


FDA, DOJ Seek Permanent Injunctions Against Six E-cigarette Manufacturers

First Injunction Actions Relating to Tobacco Products--FDA


RENTAL ASSISTANCE DEMONSTRATION FACILITATES MORE THAN $15 BILLION IN CONSTRUCTION INVESTMENT

Significant achievement represents investments in construction, rehabilitation, and preservation of affordable rental homes over nine-year period.



BUSINESS HEADLINES.


New Jersey Construction Company Operator Indicted for Tax Crimes and Bankruptcy Fraud

Underreported Business Income and Did Not Pay Employment Taxes to IRS.


Remarks by Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen on Innovation in Virginia.


Welcoming Remarks

Governor Michelle W. Bowman

At "Toward an Inclusive Recovery," a research seminar sponsored by the Board of Governors of the Federal--THE FED


During National Cybersecurity Month, IRS and Security Summit Partners offer tips.

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service and its Security Summit partners today urged families to remain vigilant year-round and consider taking additional steps to protect their personal information during National Cybersecurity Month.


401(k) limit increases to $22,500 for 2023, IRA limit rises to $6,500.

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced today that the amount individuals can contribute to their 401(k) plans in 2023 has increased to $22,500, up from $20,500 for 2022. 


US DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AWARDS INITIAL $15M GRANT TO SUPPORT DISASTER-RELATED EMPLOYMENT, OTHER ASSISTANCE TO FLORIDA IN WAKE OF HURRICANE IAN.


USDA Provides Payments of nearly $800 Million in Assistance to Help Keep Farmers Farming

Immediate Help for Over 13,000 Distressed USDA Farm Loan Borrowers; Begins process to provide up to $500 million more for up to 23,000 additional borrowers.


FTC Approves Final Order against Opendoor Labs, Preventing Company from Misleading Consumers about Cost Savings of Using the Online Real Estate Listing Service.


(4) IN FOCUS!

Commerce seeking mentors to help prospective cannabis business owners succeed.

New Social Equity in Cannabis Technical Assistance Mentorship Program designed to help communities historically impacted by high poverty and enforcement of cannabis prohibitions.

Source Link: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news/commerce-seeking-mentors-to-help-prospective-cannabis-business-owners-succeed/


OLYMPIA, WA – In 2020, the Washington State Legislature determined that additional efforts are necessary to reduce barriers to entry to the cannabis industry for individuals and communities most adversely impacted by the enforcement of cannabis-related laws. As a result, the Social Equity in Cannabis Task Force was formed, allowing approximately 41 additional cannabis retail licenses to be issued for social equity purposes. Additionally, the Washington Department of Commerce partnered with the Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) and Make Green Go! to create the Social Equity in Cannabis Technical Assistance Program, providing support for those interested in creating new cannabis ventures and applying for the Social Equity licenses.


The program consists of an online Learning System Module to help educate potential business owners on business planning and development, and group and one-on-one mentoring for applicants navigating the complexities of licensing a retail cannabis business. The easy-to-follow online modules are self-paced and include 17 free videos to help advance an entrepreneur’s understanding of business planning, market research, strategies, accounting, business finance and more. The online program also helps eligible applicants prepare for the LCB Social Equity license application process.


Mentors wanted


Commerce is seeking proposals to create a roster of mentors and a facilitator to launch the mentorship element the program. Mentors will initially provide support services to any early-stage entrepreneurs interested in starting cannabis business enterprises, particularly those who have been historically impacted by high poverty and enforcement of cannabis prohibitions. Later, assistance will target specialized guidance and support to those seeking Social Equity licenses, providing tools and expertise where necessary.


“The Technical Assistance Mentorship Program will help bolster applicants’ preparations for the Liquor and Cannabis Board’s social equity licensing process and help ensure they are positioned for success,” said Alison Beason, Commerce’s Social Equity Task Force Representative. “The program will provide applicants with industry-specific business education, direct mentorship, and assistance developing business and finance plans while offering valuable insight and guidance navigating the myriad of complexities in establishing a retail cannabis business.”


Mentors may be awarded up to $40,000 depending on their proposed plan and budget, with a six-month contract from January 2023 through June 2023. The selected facilitator may be awarded up to $150,000 for the creation of three events in January, March and June 2023 to support program participants and additional in-person or online events.


View and download the RFP for complete details. Proposals are due to Commerce Nov. 28, 2022.


RFP applicant workshop – Nov. 2 A virtual pre-proposal Zoom meeting for prospective mentor and facilitator applicants to the Social Equity in Cannabis Technical Assistance Mentorship Program is scheduled for Nov. 2 at 11 AM.


Register for the Zoom meeting. For questions about the RFP or workshop, contact Elijah Moon, Elijah.moon@commerce.wa.gov, (206) 256-6113.



LOCAL MEETINGS.


CLALLAM COUNTY MEETINGS:


Clallam County Commission work session for 10/24/22

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10242022-471


Clallam County Commission business meeting for 10/25/22

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10252022-472


Port of Port Angeles Commission meeting for 10/25/22

https://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10252022-630


City of Sequim Council meeting for 10/24/22

https://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/2705


City of Forks Council meeting for 10/26/22

https://forkswashington.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Agenda-20220926.pdf


Clallam County PUD meeting for 10/24/22

https://clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/10-24-22-WEB-Packet.pdf



JEFFERSON COUNTY MEETINGS:


Jefferson County Commission meeting for 10/ 24/22

https://media.avcaptureall.cloud/meeting/0b927862-972b-432b-8629-46ddeeb72873


Port of Port Townsend meeting for 10/26/22

https://portofpt.com/wp-content/uploads/20221026-CommMtg-Agenda-Packet.pdf


(5) Weekly devotional


BIBLE VERSE:  Proverbs 15:23 (New King James Version)

A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, And a word spoken in due season, how good it is!

 


Weekly Bible Study 

Teaching Unpopular Doctrine, by Jeffrey W. Hamilton

Some questions are difficult to answer, not because the Bible is unclear on a matter, but because there is a strong bias against the correct answer within the culture.

http://lavistachurchofchrist.org/LVarticles/TeachingUnpopularDoctrine.htm




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://watch.angelstudios.com/thechosen

 

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

Your donation is appreciated.


 This Week's Video:

 Is the FBI involved in this reporter's DISAPPEARANCE?

105,916 views  Oct 20, 2022  ‘Emmy-winning producer James Gordon Meek had his home raided by the FBI. His colleagues says they haven’t seen him since,’ writes a recent Rolling Stone report about an American reporter’s mysterious disappearance. Though some details remain murky, in this clip, Glenn explains everything we know so far. This is something 'I've never seen before in America,' Glenn says, and it raises several PRESSING questions: Could the FBI possibly be involved in this? Where is Meek, and why have no friends or family publicly expressed concern? What was on his laptop, and why did one of his colleagues refuse to answer Rolling Stone’s questions…? 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mioPqFGneZc









HEADLINES FROM OTHER SOURCES:


‘Walk In The Truth’: Walsh Urges Crowd Of 3,000 To Reject Transgender Procedures On Minors--_Daily Wire


Sen. Kennedy: 'Vote!...If Dead People Can Do It, So Can You!'--CNSNEWS


Several States Are Rejecting Mandatory COVID-19 Shots for Kids - Do You Live in One?--WJ


 






Saturday, October 15, 2022

AG Ferguson, Sen. Nguyen propose legislation to protect Washingtonians from utility shutoffs during extreme heat.

Link Source: https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-sen-nguyen-propose-legislation-protect-washingtonians-utility


OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced that he and Sen. Joe Nguyen, D-White Center, will propose legislation in the 2023 legislative session to ensure a utility company cannot shut off Washingtonians’ power or water if the temperature is 95 degrees or higher. Nineteen other states have similar protections in place.


The legislation protects all Washingtonians’ access to electric fans, working refrigerators and running water during extreme heat, as well as air conditioning for residents with access.


Washington has experienced back-to-back record-breaking heat waves. The 2021 heat wave was the deadliest weather-related event in Washington state history, claiming 157 lives, according to the state Department of Health.


In 2021, record-setting temperatures were marked in Seattle (108 degrees), Spokane (109 degrees), Yakima (113 degrees), Pullman (106 degrees), Walla Walla (117 degrees), Moses Lake (114 degrees) and Omak (117 degrees). Global climate change will continue causing longer, hotter, and more volatile summers in Washington. These extreme weather events disproportionately harm vulnerable and oppressed communities.


This summer, the Seattle area set a new record at the end of July of six consecutive days with temperatures over 90 degrees. Highs in Eastern Washington reached approximately 110 degrees during that time, as well. The heat led to the deaths of at least 10 Washingtonians and caused hundreds more to seek medical care.


“Access to running water and electricity can be a matter of life and death during extreme heat,” Ferguson said. “Washingtonians should not suffer and die because they miss a payment on a utility bill. We can improve public safety by adopting this common sense reform already in effect in red, blue and purple states across the country.”


“In a time when we are experiencing climate crisis with extreme heat and smoke, we need to ensure that we have basic provisions to protect our most vulnerable populations,” said Sen. Nguyen.


The legislation advances equity


The 2021 heat wave disproportionately harmed Black, Indigenous and Pacific Islander communities according to the Department of Health’s heat-related death data.


In 2017, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People released a report on utility disconnection in colder months showing that it happened to African Americans at a higher rate than Caucasians, regardless of income.


At least 19 states and Washington, D.C. already have similar protections


At least 19 states and Washington, D.C. have protections against utility shutoffs during extreme heat: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas and Wisconsin. Washington, D.C. also has protections against utility shutoffs.

Every legislative session Attorney General Ferguson introduces a slate of Attorney General Request bills. The majority pass with bipartisan support. Attorney General Ferguson is proposing this legislation as part of his commitment to environmental justice and his advocacy for Washington ratepayers. The Attorney General’s Public Counsel Unit represents the public in rate hearings and other matters that impact ratepayers.


The Attorney General Request legislation does not relieve Washingtonians of their obligation to pay their utility bills. It protects human health and safety by preventing electricity shutoffs for failure to pay during extreme heat. It does not prohibit utilities from shutting off power to prevent or mitigate damage from forest fires.


The legislation is garnering support across the state


“People with low incomes are getting hit hardest by recent shifts in weather patterns caused by climate change,” said Marcy Bowers, executive director of the Statewide Poverty Action Network. “They live in homes and apartments that are less likely to have energy efficiency upgrades or neighborhoods with few trees and limited shade. They are my neighbors, and yours. Now is the time for the state Legislature to support our vulnerable families and communities, not add to their hardships during the climate crisis.”


“Access to reliable and clean energy and water can have life or death consequences and this will only become more of an issue in the face of our changing climate,” said Rebecca Ponzio, Climate and Fossil Fuel Program director for the Washington Environmental Council. “Thank you, Attorney General Ferguson for introducing this legislation to build more resiliency and protective measures around utility services for community members most impacted by the climate crisis.”


“Vulnerable populations need to be safeguarded,” said Estela Ortega, executive director of El Centro de la Raza. “A moratorium is needed to prevent the disconnecting of utilities during heat waves to protect defenseless populations like the elderly, pregnant women, children, immigrants and those living in poverty including low-income neighborhoods. We urge policy makers to put in place protections for people’s health during periods of heat emergencies. Extreme heat is one of the greatest climate injustices vulnerable communities confront.”


“Heat waves kill more people in the United States than any other form of extreme weather,” said Paula Sardinas, president and founder of the Washington Build Back Black Alliance (WBBA). “As the founder of the WBBA, I keenly understand how this disproportionately impacts our Black and Brown communities. We are proud to lend a coalition of support from 240 Black, Indigenous and People of Color organizations in support of Attorney General Ferguson’s proposed legislation limiting a utility’s ability to shut off power for Washingtonians during unseasonably high and low temperatures. This good policy will save many lives.”



In other State News Headlines.


Inslee honors state employee efforts during annual leadership ceremony.



CONSUMER ALERT: Attorney General’s consumer survey reveals that millions of Washingtonians may have been unintentionally enrolled in a subscription service.


Commerce to host open house at new Kennewick hub office Monday, Oct. 17.


State infrastructure grants support over 1,000 new units of affordable housing across Washington.

Commerce awards nearly $5 million to 12 projects through Connecting Housing to Infrastructure Program

OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington State Department of Commerce today announced a third round of Connecting Housing to Infrastructure Program (CHIP) grants that will help expedite construction of 1,102 affordable housing units in 12 counties statewide. The nearly $5 million in funding awarded to local governments can be used to pay for water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure costs and waived connection fees for projects with affordable housing.


Leaking hazardous waste container leads to $37,000 fine for Clean Earth Specialty Waste Solutions.


New business competition puts environment-focused entrepreneurs in front of like-minded investors.


Updated COVID-19 booster eligibility expanded to people ages 5 and older.

Both Pfizer-BioNTech’s and Moderna’s bivalent vaccines have received authorization

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and other healthcare providers will soon begin offering Omicron variant-targeted bivalent booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines to people ages 5 and older, following guidance and recommendations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup.



State disciplines health care providers.

Clallam County

In August 2022 the Massage Therapy Program charged massage therapist Lindsay Rose Rieker (MA60069647) with unprofessional conduct for failing to cooperate with the disciplining authority.

In September 2022 the secretary of health ended probation on the agency affiliated counselor license of Sandra Dawn Allen (CG61087918).


(2) News From our Congressional Delegation to DC.


REP. KILMER INVITES VETERANS OF VIETNAM PERIOD, KITSAP COUNTY COMMUNITY TO CONGRESSIONAL PINNING CEREMONY

Port Orchard, WA – On October 19, 2022, at 5:30 pm, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) will partner with the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners and the Kitsap County Veterans Advisory Board to hold a Congressional pinning ceremony for veterans of the Vietnam Period at the Kitsap County Administration Building in Port Orchard.


Cantwell Statement on Social Security Rate Increase

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Social Security Administration announced that Social Security recipients will receive an 8.7% increase in their benefits in 2023, the largest cost-of-living adjustment in more than 40 years.


Cantwell Announces First Federal Grant for I-5 Bridge Replacement Project in PNWA “Legislator of the Year” Speech

Cantwell: Infusion of federal funding for I-5 Bridge project to go toward seismic analysis study.


Cantwell Talks AI Advancements in Agriculture, Tours Cutting-Edge Hydrogen Research Lab during WSU Visit

Cantwell: “Research institutions like WSU… can usher in the next phase of innovation here in the United States”


Following Senator Murray’s Push, VA Announces Delayed Implementation of Electronic Health Records in Western Washington.


Senator Murray Encourages WA Public Servants to Seek Student Debt Relief Under PSLF Waiver, Reiterates Call to Extend October Deadline.


(3) WORLD NEWS HEADLINES.


Haiti: ‘Bearers of hope’, saving newborn lives, amid growing turmoil.

As protection, healthcare and essential services break down, the violence and volatile political and economic crisis engulfing Haiti has rapidly deteriorated into what the UN has described overall as a humanitarian catastrophe.


World Food Day: Another year of global record hunger looms amid food and climate crisis.

The world is at risk of yet another year of record hunger as the global food crisis continues to drive more people into worsening levels of acute food insecurity, The World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Thursday.


Yemen: End of nationwide truce heralds ‘heightened risk of war’, Security Council hears.

New uncertainty and “a heightened risk of war” now prevails across Yemen, following the end of a long truce which brought significant dividends, the UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg told the Security Council on Thursday.


Disaster risk reduction: Only half the world equipped with adequate early warning systems.

A new report from the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) published on Thursday, warns that half of the world’s countries are not protected by multi-hazard early warning systems.


Sixth Committee Speakers Unable to Agree About Form of Draft Articles on State Responsibility, as Debates on Texts, Universal Jurisdiction Principle Conclude

‘Compromise Is the Best and Cheapest Lawyer’, General Assembly President Stresses, Urging Delegates to Provide Answers during Continuous Political Turmoil.


Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s Interview with Mary Louise Kelly on NPR’s “All Things Considered” --usun


Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Yemen--USUN


Secretary Antony J. Blinken At a Signing Ceremony for a New Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) With the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)--US STATE DEPT.



NATIONAL & BUSINESS NEWS.


For Northcom, Autonomous Systems May Be Key to Homeland Defense--DOD

U.S. Northern Command is responsible for defending the U.S. homeland against threats from adversaries—and there are many such threats, said Air Force Gen. Glen D. VanHerck, who serves as commander of both Northcom and the North American Aerospace Defense Command. 


National Security Strategy Aims to Address New Challenges.

The world is at an inflection point, and the new National Security Strategy unveiled yesterday is designed to address this new world, Jake Sullivan, President Joe Biden's national security advisor, said.--DOD


Justice Department, Federal Trade Commission and European Commission Hold Second U.S.-EU Joint Technology Competition Policy Dialogue

The Justice Department’s Antitrust Division Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter, Federal Trade Commission Chair (FTC) Lina M. Khan and Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager of the European Commission met today in Brussels for the second meeting of the U.S.-EU Joint Technology Competition Policy Dialogue (TCPD). The three leaders met to take stock of the progress made on their cooperation efforts to ensure and promote fair competition in the digital economy, since the agencies launched the TCPD on Dec. 7, 2021.--DOJ


U.S. Department of Education Awards Nearly $120 Million Over Five Years to Support Educators of English Learner Students.

The U.S. Department of Education’s Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA) recently announced awards of nearly $120 million over five years under the National Professional Development Program (NPD) to support educators of English learner students.


CDC Expands Updated COVID-19 Vaccines to Include Children Ages 5 Through 11.

Today, CDC’s Director Rochelle P. Walensky, M.D., M.P.H., signed a decision memo expanding the use of updated (bivalent) COVID-19 vaccines to children ages 5 through 11 years. This follows the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) authorization of updated COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech for children ages 5 through 11 years, and from Moderna for children and adolescents ages 6 through 17 years.


HUD Announces $12.4 Million Loan Guarantee for Baltimore, MD

Renovation and Expansion of a Historic Recreation Center Supported by Loan Guarantee

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today announced a $12.4 million loan guarantee for the renovation and expansion of the Chick Webb Recreation Center in East Baltimore, Maryland.


Feature Article: Drone Piloting Proficiency Takes Flight with Certification Course--DHS


Interior Department Takes Next Steps to Update Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act

Proposed changes would streamline processes and improve compliance of NAGPRA; public comment period opens.



BUSINESS NEWS:


Biden-Harris Administration Announces New Steps for Drought Mitigation Funding from Inflation Reduction Act

New program will increase water conservation and water efficiency within the Colorado River Basin.


Justice Department Files Complaint to Stop California Firm from Making and Selling Adulterated and Misbranded Food Products

The United States filed a complaint to stop a food manufacturer in Antioch, California, from making and selling adulterated and misbranded noodle products, the Justice Department announced today.--DOJ


Treasury Announces Eleven Additional States to Receive up to $1 Billion from U.S. Treasury Department to Promote Small Business Growth and Entrepreneurship through the American Rescue Plan.


Forward Guidance as a Monetary Policy Tool: Considerations for the Current Economic Environment

Governor Michelle W. Bowman--THE FED


IRS sending letters to over 9 million potentially eligible families who did not claim stimulus payments, EITC, Child Tax Credit and other benefits; Free File to stay open until Nov. 17.


USDA Seeking Public Comment on a New Provision to Provide Assistance to Agricultural Producers Who Have Experienced Discrimination.


5 Things Large Companies Can Do Right Now to Help Small Businesses--US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


FTC Approves Petition by Gilbarco, Inc. for Partial Exemption to the Agency’s Fuel Rating Rule--FTC




(4)

IN FOCUS!

FROM HUD...

FACT SHEET:

HUD Marks Important New Milestone in American Rescue Plan’s Emergency Housing Voucher Program.

https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_22_213


“At HUD we are pleased that over 35,000 households have been averted from homelessness and have successfully leased their own rental housing thanks to our Emergency Housing Voucher Program. This marks a major step forward in our efforts to realize the ambitious goals we set when the program was established through the President’s American Rescue Plan. We will continue to meet the challenge of addressing our nation’s homelessness and affordability crises with the urgency they require through this program, our House America initiative, and all of the housing assistance we provide.”

- HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge



Today, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Marcia L. Fudge will travel to Atlanta, Georgia, where she will meet with several representatives from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) to discuss homeownership and asset building within their communities. Secretary Fudge will then travel to Columbus, Georgia to attend a meeting with NeighborWorks, where she will meet with residents to announce an important milestone in the Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) program: With this milestone, 50 percent of the total number of EHVs provided through President Biden’s American Rescue Plan have been leased up.


The Emergency Housing Voucher program is the first-ever special purpose voucher program within HUD to address homelessness not specific to veterans. The program is leasing at a rate faster than any previous housing voucher program within HUD and is driving unprecedented collaboration among public housing agencies (PHAs), homeless services organizations, and victim services organizations to provide housing assistance to vulnerable populations, including individuals and families who are experiencing or at-risk of homelessness; fleeing, or attempting to flee, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking; or were recently homeless or have a high risk of housing instability. The EHV program is an anchor program of HUD’s House America initiative in which HUD, the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH), and other federal agencies have enlisted leaders in 105 state and local communities to make specific commitments to re-house people experiencing homelessness into permanent housing.


The EHV program provides communities new flexibilities and resources to help individuals and families with higher barriers successfully use housing vouchers. This includes robust administrative funding and a new service fee that allows program administrators to pay for costs necessary to help families find and retain housing. PHAs are required to coordinate with their CoC partners to provide housing search assistance and can also use service fees for landlord incentives, tenants’ security and utility deposits, and even for furniture and household goods, which are often a significant expense for families who are directly transitioning from homelessness.


HUD is taking aggressive action to ensure that more individuals and families can secure and retain homes. HUD and the Biden-Harris Administration will continue to build on this progress to make sure more households have a safe and stable place to call home. The Administration recognizes the importance of housing vouchers to securing affordable housing, and is fighting for an additional increase to the program. The President’s Fiscal Year 2023 HUD Budget requests $1.6 billion for an additional 200,000 new housing vouchers.


Highlights to date include:



IMPROVING VOUCHER ISSUANCES AND UTILIZATION, WITH AN EMPHASIS ON THE MOST VULNERABLE HOUSEHOLDS


The EHV program has already helped over 35,000 households who were homeless, survivors of domestic violence, or otherwise at risk to afford a safe, stable place to call home. At the current rate - the fastest leasing rate of any previous HUD housing voucher program - the program is on track to reach full lease-up by the end of next year.


All 613 EHV PHAs have executed a memorandum of understanding with a homeless service provider or victim service provider, and, at 50% utilized to date, the EHV program is leasing at a rate faster than any previous housing voucher program within HUD.

To date, approximately 100 percent of EHVs are in use - either leased or currently issued. Over 35,000 households have been housed, while another 36,000 voucher holders are in the process of searching for a unit or completing the lease process.

PHAs continue to issue roughly 700 EHVs per week, and the time for issuance to lease is averaging 77 days. Of the vouchers issued 180 or more days ago, about 57% have been housed. At this rate, the program is on track to reach full lease-up by the end of 2023.


CREATIVELY USING SERVICE FEES TO HELP HOUSE INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES


PHAs across the country are creatively and successfully using their service fees to help house individuals and families, including through landlord incentives, housing search services, and application fees and security deposit assistance. Examples:


Housing Authority of Santa Barbara (California): The Housing Authority of Santa Barbara (HASB) - which has a 84% EHV utilization rate and has used 67% of its service fees - offers a $1,500 signing bonus to landlords leasing to an EHV family and a $2,000 security deposit for each unit leased to an EHV family. HASB established a Landlord Mitigation Fund that provides financial assistance to landlords to mitigate damages to units.

Greenville Housing Authority (North Carolina): The Greenville Housing Authority (GHA) - which has a 96% EHV utilization rate and has used 59% of its service fees - provides a landlord leasing incentive that consists of $1,000 for a new landlord who has not previously participated as a landlord in a GHA program in the past 12 months and $250 for each additional unit leased, as well as a $500 one-time bonus for current landlords for the first unit leased and $250 for each additional unit leased to an EHV family. GHA also provides a Landlord Mitigation Fund that enables landlords to apply for up to $2,500 per unit for damages. Additionally, households may apply for application fee costs up to $50 and for security deposit assistance.

San Diego Housing Commission (California): The San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC) - which has a 95% EHV utilization rate and has used 63% of its service fees - provides application fee assistance to EHV families, up to two times the contract rent in security deposits and an average of $100 in utility assistance per household, and “holding deposits” that are credited toward security deposit amounts upon approval of the rental application. SDHC also provides landlords renting to EHV recipients $500 for the first unit rented and $250 for each subsequent unit. SDHC hired full-time staff to serve as housing specialists/navigators. Staff members are specifically assigned to EHV families, facilitating landlord incentives, housing search services, service provider coordination, and rental assistance staff communication. Additionally, SDHC leverages funding from the City of San Diego Affordable Housing Fund to reserve vacancies while Housing Specialists identify candidate applicants and facilitate rental application submissions, process voucher documents, and execute the move-in processes. This Vacancy Loss Incentive serves as a benefit to give the Housing Specialists time to line up suitable tenant options while the owner is compensated for their collaboration with SDHC.


PROVIDING DIRECT SUPPORT AND LANDLORD ENGAGEMENT IN RESPONSE TO UTILIZATION CHALLENGES


From rising rental costs to difficulty finding landlords to the higher barriers to housing experienced by EHV households, the challenges around housing the most disadvantage are real. That is why HUD is proactively working with PHAs, providing direct support through technical assistance, engaging landlords, and providing other support and resources to address these challenges head on and ensure that more households can obtain decent, stable housing through the EHV program.


The Department is preparing landlord symposiums in housing markets across the U.S. to encourage more landlord participation in HUD’s housing voucher programs and to dispel myths and misconceptions of voucher-assisted households.

HUD provides monthly office hours to discuss a wide range of topics related to EHV best practices. Recent office hours topics include serving survivors of domestic violence, serving returning citizens, and serving youth households. The August 9, 2022 event on serving returning citizens featured presentations from Philadelphia and Baltimore on partnerships and using service fees to effectively serve formerly incarcerated individuals.

HUD has provided direct technical assistance to 90 communities, including San Francisco, New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Tucson/Pima County, New Orleans, and others, to expand understanding of the program and its flexibilities and to build coordinated landlord engagement approaches. Examples of the types of technical assistance (TA) provided include:

New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA)/ New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (NYHPD) (New York) - HUD assigned TA to NYCHA and NYHPD to reduce bottlenecks in the referral process from the Continuum of Care (CoC) and other partner agencies. The TA provider worked closely with NYCHA and NYHPD to refine how applicants were guided through the system and provided helpful feedback on NYCHA’s portal system to reduce wait times. The two PHAs have issued 7,345 EHVs as a result.

Regarding the benefits of EHV technical assistance, NYHPD stated: “Envisioning and building New York City’s sweeping Emergency Housing Voucher initiative demanded we navigate a thousand complexities tied to launching a new program with a new set of partners. HUD’s Technical Advisors assisted with devising solutions to help us deliver. Our TA partners brought housing groups together to plan through challenges; helped develop communications, training resources, and new media campaigns. Their support was crucial to shortening the learning curve as we worked to meet the needs of communities not historically given priority for federal vouchers. We look forward to continued collaboration to help New Yorkers navigate an especially competitive rental market.”

Tucson and Pima County (Arizona) - HUD assigned TA to help develop and refine landlord incentive policies and landlord outreach. As a result, the PHAs have leased 127 families and 55 additional families are searching for housing.

In response to the utilization challenges PHAs are experiencing in competitive rental markets across the country, HUD hosted a four-part EHV landlord engagement series. More information about the webinar series is available at www.hud.gov/ehv.


ADVANCING BEST PRACTICES AND ENGAGING PEOPLE WITH LIVED EXPERIENCE TO HELP MORE HOUSEHOLDS SECURE HOUSING


HUD is bringing together PHAs and people with lived experience to foster collaboration, address inequities, and strengthen support and resources to improve outcomes of the EHV program and other voucher programs administered by the Department.


HUD accepted 10 EHV communities to participate in the first cohort of a Community of Practice focused on advancing equity in the EHV program. HUD plans to use this Community of Practice to draw upon the strengths of communities to foster and encourage resource sharing, innovative thinking, and connections among PHAs, while exploring inequalities within their existing systems and developing system adjustments to ensure efforts to advance equity throughout the EHV program.

Earlier this year, HUD released the Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV): A How-To Guide for Public Housing Agencies to provide an overview of EHV operating requirements, outline considerations for PHAs in the design of their EHV programs, and highlight best practices in program implementation.

HUD’s efforts around the EHV program are informing work around the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program - the federal government’s major program for providing housing assistance to over 2.3 million American families - and other Special Purpose Voucher (SPV) programs. HUD will bring the innovative approach of the EHV program to these other voucher programs to improve housing outcomes for households across the U.S.

King County Housing Authority and Seattle Housing Authority - After an initial slow start in issuances and utilization, the two public housing agencies in Seattle/King County are now leading the region in their lease-up of Emergency Housing Vouchers. At the time of this writing, King County Housing Authority has leased 88.71% of their 762 awarded EHVs and Seattle Housing Authority has leased 80% of their 498 EHVs. Both housing authorities and their referring partner, the King County Regional Homelessness Authority, attribute this turn-around to improvements in coordination between the two PHAs and the King County Regional Homelessness Authority, leading to an increase in the pace of referrals of people experiencing homelessness, as well as a more coordinated and centralized approach to landlord recruitment.


ENSURING TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE EHV PROGRAM


HUD has prioritized informing the public on EHV leasing, issuances, and unit utilization to provide transparency and ensure accountability in the program.


In 2021, HUD launched the Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) Data Dashboard to provide unprecedented transparency and accountability for this new special purpose voucher program. The dashboard provides updates (with potential delays as PHAs gather and submit data) on leasing, issuances, unit utilization, services fee spending, and information on voucher awards and funding by PHA. The dashboard showcases EHV data at the national, regional, field office, state, and PHA-level for ease of use by a variety of audiences. The dashboard is also a valuable tool for identifying communities that are facing challenges and that could benefit from additional assistance.


MAKING IT EASIER TO ACCESS AFFORDABLE HOUSING WITH VOUCHERS


The 2023 Fair Market Rents (FMRs), which HUD published on September 1 and which went into effect on October 1, will make it easier for voucher holders to lease in most markets. The new FMR levels will enable the voucher program to keep up with rent increases in the private market, particularly in areas with rapidly rising rents. These new FMRs will allow voucher holders to access and secure leases in more units so that they can benefit from the housing affordability and stability that vouchers provide. HUD’s action on FMRs will improve the utilization of both the baseline vouchers and the supplemental vouchers created under the Biden-Harris Administration.



LOCAL MEETINGS


CLALLAM COUNTY MEETINGS.


Clallam County Commission work session for 10/17/22

https://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1337


Clallam County Commission board meeting for 10/18/22

https://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=7339


Clallam County Board of health meeting for 10/18/22

https://clallam.granicus.com/DocumentViewer.php?file=clallam_567a22054a92c4033bb661b28a4b61d4.pdf&view=1


Peninsula Housing Authority meeting for 10/19/22

https://clallam.granicus.com/DocumentViewer.php?file=clallam_47c6cc659484246e75d303ad6634abbc.pdf&view=1


City of Port Angeles Council 10/18/22

https://www.cityofpa.us/DocumentCenter/View/12178/CC-10182022-City-Council-Packet



JEFFERSON COUNTY MEETINGS.


Jefferson County Commission meeting for 10/17/22

https://media.avcaptureall.cloud/meeting/37fa91bd-8e9c-4b16-bcbc-67bf719f86e6


PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA

for 10/17/22

https://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=1711




{5}

Weekly devotional

BIBLE VERSE: 2 Samuel 7:22 (New King James Version)
Therefore You are great, O Lord God. For there is none like You, nor is there any God besides You, according to all that we have heard with our ears. 
 

Weekly Bible Study 
Spiritually Blind, by Thomas Thornhill



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The Port Angeles Globe is a weekly Publication, every Saturday-- Publisher, Peter Ripley
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 This Week's Video:
 Glenn: Economy is like the TITANIC. Time to get on a lifeboat.
68,950 views  Oct 14, 2022  Glenn says our economy today is like the Titanic — saving it before massive destruction is done might not be an option any longer. And, unfortunately, financial expert and author of ‘The War On Small Business,’ Carol Roth, agrees. She tells Glenn what SHE would do differently if she was running the Federal Reserve: ’I [would] slow the Titanic down so we can get people into the lifeboats.’ 








HEADLINES FROM OTHER SOURCES:

January 6 is not the drop dead Election Day deal Democrats think.--WT

Inflation’s gut punch to Democrats’ election hopes--WE

The January 6 Committee Ends with a Whimper--NR