Saturday, February 25, 2023

ICYMI: Twenty states announce historic governor-led Reproductive Freedom Alliance.

 

https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/icymi-twenty-states-announce-historic-governor-led-reproductive-freedom-alliance

In case you missed it: Today, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Colorado Governor Jared Polis, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, Delaware Governor John Carney, Hawai’i Governor Josh Green, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Maine Governor Janet Mills, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee, Washington Governor Jay Inslee, and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, announced the launch of a multi-state Reproductive Freedom Alliance (Alliance).


The Alliance is a non-partisan coalition of 20 governors committed to protecting and expanding reproductive freedom in their states, the largest such coalition ever convened. The Alliance will work together to strengthen reproductive freedom in the face of an unprecedented assault on abortion access and other forms of reproductive health care by states hostile to abortion rights and judges who are advancing their ideological agenda. All governors who support reproductive freedom are welcome to join the Alliance.


“This is an issue of freedom," said Gov. Jay Inslee. "Patients must have the freedom to make personal reproductive care decisions for themselves, without interference by activist politicians. Washington is taking strong action to protect these freedoms for every patient and provider in our state, and we are all in on the fight to protect a person’s right to an abortion across the country.”


Major funding for the Alliance is provided by the California Wellness Foundation with additional support from the Rosenberg Foundation.


In other State news headlines:

Attorney General Ferguson recovers another $9.3M in stolen unemployment money.

OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson today announced that his office recovered another $9.3 million stolen as part of a massive fraud perpetrated against states across the country. The money had been deposited by fraudsters into Bank of America accounts, and last week a King County Superior Court judge ordered Bank of America to return the stolen funds to Washington state.


Your input matters: addressing contamination at the Yakima Training Center.

Drinking water wells around the Yakima Training Center have been contaminated with chemicals used in firefighting foam from the site. Other types of contamination affect different locations on the training center itself. We at Ecology are working hard to ensure that everyone has clean water and a safe environment to live in — and we want you to be involved.--DOE


2023 Columbia River spring Chinook fishing seasons announced.

OLYMPIA – Fishery managers from Washington and Oregon on Wednesday approved this year’s recreational spring Chinook salmon fishing season for the Columbia River, with seasons expected to look similar to 2022.--WDFW


Court dismisses Maverick Gaming lawsuit challenging Washington tribal sports gaming.

TACOMA — Today, Chief Judge David Estudillo of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington dismissed Maverick Gaming’s lawsuit challenging the state law that allows sports betting, but limits bets to those placed at casinos owned by tribal nations.


(2) News from our congressional delegation to DC


In Tacoma, Senator Murray Talks New $35 Insulin Cap for Seniors, Continues Push to Cap Insulin and Lower Costs for All Patients.


Senator Murray Discusses Major Federal Investments in Seattle’s Pedestrian Safety.


Senator Murray Tours Food Lifeline in Seattle, Affirms Commitment to Federal Nutrition Programs


(3 WORLD & NATIONAL HEADLINES


UN General Assembly calls for immediate end to war in Ukraine--UN NEWS CENTER

The UN General Assembly on Thursday called for ending the war in Ukraine and demanded Russia’s immediate withdrawal from the country, in line with the UN Charter.


UN officials call for de-escalation after deadly Israel-Palestinian clashes.

Top UN officials have called for halting escalating cycles of violence following Israeli-Palestinian clashes and airstrikes on Wednesday that left 11 dead and more than 100 injured.


Statement by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield Marking the One-Year Anniversary of Russia’s Brutal Invasion of Ukraine--USUN


The United States Takes Sweeping Actions on the One Year Anniversary of Russia’s War Against Ukraine--US STATE DEPT.


NATIONAL:


DOD Official Says U.S. Not Yet Seeing China Giving Lethal Aid to Russia.

The United States has not yet seen China giving lethal aid to Russia in its illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, but the Chinese also haven't taken that aid off the table, according to Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh in a briefing of the media at the Pentagon today.--DOD


Digital Healthcare Platform Ordered to Pay Civil Penalties and Take Corrective Action for Unauthorized Disclosure of Personal Health Information--DOJ


HUD Awards $12.9 Million to Prevent Homelessness Among Youth Transitioning Out of Foster Care

16 Public Housing Agencies in 9 States will use funding to keep Foster Youth Housed--HUD


BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION TO SAVE FHA HOMEBUYERS AVERAGE $800 ANNUALLY ON MORTGAGE PAYMENTS THROUGH PREMIUM REDUCTION

30 basis point reduction in FHA annual mortgage insurance premium supports Biden-Harris Administration goals to make homeownership more affordable and accessible for working families.--HUD


4) BUSINESS HEADLINES

Biden-Harris Administration Invests Nearly $10 Million for Reforestation through Forest Nursery and Native Seed Partnerships

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds will support partners in growing forest nurseries, seed orchards and seed collection efforts to meet historic needs--USDA


Two Business Owners Sentenced for Conspiring to Pay Bribes in Exchange for Municipal Contracts in Puerto Rico--DOJ


Discussion of the Paper "Managing Disinflations" by Stephen G. Cecchetti, Michael E. Feroli, Peter Hooper, Frederic S. Mishkin, and Kermit L. Schoenholtz--THE FED


Top 6 Global Business Trends to Watch in 2023

The U.S. Chamber team carefully tracks the biggest global business trends – here are the ones you should be watching in 2023.--US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


5) Commentary & Local meetings


DON'T MAKE THE MISTAKES I DONE

Instant Live Helps (AKA Devine Mart)

I was taken by these clowns!

By Peter Ripley 

Being someone who keeps track of online scam jobs like these clowns. I myself was conned close to $400! This nightmare started for me back in September, I was staying at the Red Lion Inn at the time due to the Housing Authority's renovation project, and was using Wifi there, not that had anything to do on what happened to me, but wanted to share the circumstances I was in at the time using WIFI for internet access, what happened to me could have happened regardless how I access the internet.

I logged on my computer, and found my computer was being blocked, and on the screen was a 800 number to call. I thought it was a Microsoft technician, I was calling. It turned out no to be the case, it was a scammer company that infects people with ransomware, and other viruses. I thought at the time I was dealing with a legit company, gave these jerks access to my computer to "fix" the problem, then they charged me close to $400! Which I foolishly paid for using some of the stimulus that had at the time. 

They told me this was a one time payment, and my computer would be safe. Apparently, that wasn't the case. Recently they called me with another problem with my computer, they said it had to be "fixed" again, told me they wouldn't charge me for the fix, but they through their intimidation, and threats, they demanded me to pay them an additional $200! At this time I thought I was dealing with a legit company, I agreed at first, then changed my mind, which by the way is anyone's right to do, cancelled the transaction which they manipulated me in doing, I felt helpless, and vulnerable. I was conned by these people once won't be conned again.

I spent the better part of this week filing complaints against this company. With our state's AG office, the FTC, and the BBB of Florida which they are based at.

This company goes by two names: Instant Live Helps, which is a front for Devine Mart

The following are some alerts about this company, and new articles:


Devine Mart Report from the BBB of Florida

https://www.bbb.org/us/fl/saint-petersburg/profile/tech-support/devine-mart-0653-90422894/details

BBB conducted an investigation based on recent consumer complaints and/or BBB Scam Tracker Reports to determine this business/website(s) is operating a Tech Support Scam.


Consumers alleged receiving phone calls posing as major computer security software retailers, offering protection plans for their computer. After paying for the membership and allowing the program to be installed, they found their computer has been corrupted.


This BBB business profile includes all similar business names, addresses, phone numbers and/or websites that came to BBB's attention.


Scammed by Live Network Help? Here's What to Do.

Infopackets Reader Gina S. writes

https://www.infopackets.com/news/10698/scammed-live-network-help-heres-what-do


How To Spot, Avoid, and Report Tech Support Scams.

FTC: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-tech-support-scams

Tech support scammers want you to believe you have a serious problem with your computer, like a virus. They want you to pay for tech support services you don't need, to fix a problem that doesn’t exist. They often ask you to pay by wiring money, putting money on a gift card, prepaid card, or cash reload card, or using cryptocurrency or a money transfer app because they know those types of payments can be hard to reverse.


* Don't make the same mistakes I done, beware!


LOCAL MEETINGS


CLALLAM COUNTY MEETINGS


Clallam County Commission work session for 2/27/23

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02272023-730


Clallam County Commission Business meeting for 2/28/23

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02282023-731


Port of Port Angeles Commission meeting for 2/28/23

https://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02282023-654


City of Sequim Council meeting for 2/27/23

https://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/2765


Clallam County PUD meeting for 2/27/23

https://clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/2-27-23-WEB-Packet.pdf


JEFFERSON COUNTY MEETINGS


Jefferson County Commission meeting for 2/27/23

https://media.avcaptureall.cloud/meeting/f105f74f-2f59-44d2-a0b6-bee17429b70f




Weekly devotional

BIBLE VERSE: Matthew 22:37-39 (New King James Version)
Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’
 

Weekly Bible Study 
The Genuineness of Mark 16:9-20
by Dudley Ross Spears
The last verses from Mark’s gospel, (Mark 16:9-20) have been called “The Longer Ending of Mark.” The first time I came across this criticism it was in response to quoting verses 15 and 16. Mark 16:16 affirms, “He that believes and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believes not shall be condemned.” The statement is so plain, the only way to avoid its force is to discredit it. Nothing is more clearly taught in the New Testament than the absolute necessity of a believer being baptized to be saved.




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
 

 This Week's Videos:
26,895 views  Premiered 18 hours ago
The debate over the war between Russia and Ukraine has become so polarized that it’s time for Glenn to make a few things clear. Criticizing Russia doesn’t make you pro-endless Ukraine spending, and criticizing Ukraine doesn’t make you a Putin puppet. There’s a third option, Glenn explains, and it involves not trusting ANYONE who’s taking us to war, but instead learning to have reasonable conversations again — including about tough topics like whether Seymour Hersh's report on the Nord Stream pipeline bombings was right. And speaking of conversations, Glenn shows just how far AI tech has come

What happened to our healthy fear of nuclear war? The world reacted in horror to Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine one year ago this week. But one of the alarming side effects of Putin’s war is how talk of using nuclear weapons has been almost casually tossed around over the last year. Last fall, our own president said the world could face nuclear “Armageddon” if Putin uses a nuke on Ukraine. People mostly shrugged and moved on. Almost 78 years removed from the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and 31 years since the end of the Cold War, we’ve lost our proper fear of nuclear war. These are terrifying weapons, some of which are 3,000 times more powerful than the bomb dropped on Hiroshima. We need a wake-up call about the reality of nuclear war and why it must NEVER happen. Glenn takes you through how the nuclear arms race developed between the U.S. and Russia. He also explores the current nuclear threats, what nuclear war would actually entail, and the unthinkable consequences that would result. Are we prepared? Is there anything you can do to increase your chance of survival in a nuclear attack?   


Come join Four Lakes Church of Christ for our Sunday Worship Service!
 

 
 

The Port Angeles Globe is a weekly Publication, every Saturday-- Publisher, Peter Ripley
Your donation is appreciated.

 





Saturday, February 18, 2023

BENTON COUNTY FLOCK TESTS POSITIVE FOR BIRD FLU; FLOCK OWNERS ENCOURAGED TO SELF-REPORT.

 

Link Source: WSDA

OLYMPIA – On the heels of this spring’s wild bird migration, Washington state veterinarians confirmed the state’s 16th county, and 42nd flock infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) today, February 10.


A Benton County flock owner reported the sudden death of multiple birds in their small domestic flock earlier this week. The National Veterinarian Services Laboratory (NVSL) confirmed HPAI H5N1 results early this morning.


In an effort to mitigate cases, Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) is reminding flock owners of the domestic sick bird online reporting tool. The online tool complements the existing WSDA sick bird reporting hotline as well as the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s online reporting tool for wild birds.

Washington State Veterinarian Dr. Amber Itle says bird owners should continue taking extra biosecurity measures.


“The risk of our domestic and commercial poultry being exposed to and contracting HPAI remains high,” Dr. Itle said. “Suspending outdoor access in flocks where there is a risk of wild bird interactions is still recommended, as well as enhancing biosecurity, covering outdoor runs, etc.”


Enhanced biosecurity can protect flocks and preserve a farm from diseases, like HPAI. Flock owners are encouraged to take measures such as proper cleaning and disinfection and covering coops to protect from waterfowl introductions of the virus.


“At this time, it is difficult to predict how long these extra precautions will be necessary over the next few months,” Dr. Itle added.


After a confirmed detection, state and federal animal health officials monitor flocks for HPAI symptoms within a 10-kilometer surveillance zone around the detection site. Flock owners in a surveillance zone are encouraged to self-report the health of their birds using the online surveillance self-reporting tool. State veterinarians seek to contact every flock owner in a surveillance area to check on the health of their flock; self-reporting allows a veterinarian to make phone contact to discuss biosecurity and symptom monitoring advice without having to make in-person contact.  


State veterinarians say the biggest risk factor to date is direct contact with wild waterfowl. Since May 5, 2022, when the WSDA announced the first Washington case, all infected flocks had contact with wild waterfowl.


“The most common risk factor for infection is proximity to water sources or ponds where wild waterfowl congregate; increasing environmental viral load and risk of transmission to domestic flocks,” Dr. Itle added.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife continues to report increasing numbers of cases in wild birds and detections in three raccoons and most recently, a bobcat. While the risk of avian influenza is always present from interactions with wild waterfowl in the Pacific flyway, spring migration in the next four to six weeks may present an additional challenge.


WSDA resources for flock owners to learn about bird flu and protect their flocks include a bird flu webpage, an interactive map, a Facebook group, and biosecurity precautions when resuming exhibitions.

If your flock experiences sudden death or illness of multiple birds, use the new online reporting tool or call WSDA’s Sick Bird Hotline at 1-800-606-3056.


Birds that have already died should be double-bagged and kept in a cooler on ice until WSDA veterinarians can arrange for sampling. Sick or dead wild birds should not be touched or moved and can be reported using the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s online reporting tool.


IN OTHER STATE NEWS HEADLINES


Ecology invites comment on updates to toxic cleanup regulations.--DOE


WDFW invites public participation in annual salmon season-setting process.


State revokes, suspends licenses, certifications, registrations of health care providers. --DOH

Clallam County

In December 2022 the secretary of health revoked the home care aide license of Joshua Lee McFarland (HM60840191). McFarland entered a stipulated order of continuance for dismissal in Clallam County District court. The order included charges of assault and malicious mischief involving a vulnerable adult in his care.


Commissioner Franz Urges House to Pass Carbon Credit Bill--DNR

Washington should be able to generate revenue from the carbon stored in its public lands, Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz told the state House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee Tuesday.


2) NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION

KILMER, MCMORRIS RODGERS REINTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO HONOR VIETNAM VETERANS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (WA-06) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to award Dustoff crews of the Vietnam War with the Congressional Gold Medal. Dustoff crewmembers – helicopter air ambulance pilots, crew chiefs, and medics – performed aeromedical evacuation of over 900,000 U.S., Vietnamese, and allied forces from May 1962 to March 1973.


KILMER, MOORE, LANKFORD REINTRODUCE THE BIPARTISAN RETAIN SKILLED VETERANS ACT TO PERMANENTLY REPEAL THE “180-DAY RULE”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (WA-06) and Blake Moore (UT-01) and U.S. Senator James Lankford (OK) announced the reintroduction of the bipartisan Retain Skilled Veterans Act, legislation to permanently remove the existing requirement for retired military members to submit a waiver to work as a civilian employee at the Department of Defense within 180 days of their retirement or separation for positions at the GS-13 level or below.


Pharmacy Benefit Managers May Be Responsible for Skyrocketing Prescription Drug Costs, a “Life or Death Matter,” Says Cantwell

Seattle pharmacist who shuttered Eastlake location: “There’s obviously no way that a business could operate with these predatory and unpredictable fees.”


Cantwell Calls on FAA Leader to Strengthen Internal Systems & Increase Redundancy During Commerce Committee Hearing

Hearing examined Jan. 11 shutdown of FAA’s Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) system that grounded 1,300 flights nationwide; Cantwell: “I want to get an answer within a week about the NOTAM system having a separate backup.”


Murray Outlines How House Republicans’ Proposed Funding Cuts Would Hurt American Families and Make Us Less Safe.


Murray Discusses How Key Reforms She Delivered Will Help Protect Consumers from Unsafe Cosmetics.


3) WORLD & NATIONAL NEWS


WORLD:

UN launches $1 billion appeal to scale-up aid operations in Türkiye.

The United Nations on Thursday launched a $1 billion appeal for Türkiye to assist more than five million people affected by the cataclysmic earthquakes last week, the largest to hit the country in a century. 


Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s Interview with Marco Werman on PRX’s “The World” 


Opening Special Decolonization Committee’s Annual Session, Secretary-General Stresses Voices, Concerns of Non-Self-Governing Territories Must Be Heard ‘Loud and Clear’

Committee Members Elect Bureau, Approve 2023 Workplan as Incoming Chair Rallies Delegates to ‘Take Innovative Steps’


Joint Statement of the United States of America and U.S.-Gulf Cooperation Council Counterterrorism Working Group--US STATE DEPT.


NATIONAL

Made in America Policies and New Technical Standards Support the Future of the Electric Vehicle Charging Industry, --WH


Leaders Outline Agency's Role in DOD Additive Manufacturing Capabilities--DOD


United States Files Complaint Against Illegal Robocall Telemarketers and Telecommunications Service Providers--DOJ


FDA Advances Additional Activities to Prevent Drug Overdoses and Reduce Death--FDA


4) BUSINESS

Treasury Releases Information on Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax--US TREASURY


Welcome Remarks

Governor Lisa D. Cook

At the Sadie Collective Research Reception, Washington, D.C.


FTC Sues to Stop Interconnected Web of VoIP Service Providers Carrying Robocalls Pitching Phony Debt Relief Services

Millions of consumers received illegal robocalls and other unwanted communications pitching debt relief scams--FTC


Manager of Key West Labor Staffing Companies Sentenced for Immigration and Employment Tax Fraud

A Florida man was sentenced today to 96 months in prison for conspiring to harbor non-resident aliens and induce them to remain in the country and conspiring to defraud the IRS.--DOJ


5) LOCAL MEETINGS


CLALLAM COUNTY MEETINGS

Clallam County Commission work session for 2/21/23

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02212023-726


Clallam County Commission regular meeting for 2/21/23

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02212023-727


City of Port Angeles Council meeting for 2/21/23

https://www.cityofpa.us/DocumentCenter/View/12748/CC-Agenda-Packet-02212023


PUD SPECIAL MEETING FOR 2/21/23

https://clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/2-21-23-Special-Meeting-Agenda.pdf



JEFFERSON COUNTY MEETINGS


Jefferson County Commission Meeting for 2/21/23

https://media.avcaptureall.cloud/meeting/c8cf3ae7-7e15-4e58-b415-cc1bce76647a


PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA for 2/21/23

https://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=3107


Port of Port Townsend meeting for 2/22/23

https://portofpt.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-02-22-CommMtg-Agenda.pdf



Weekly devotional

BIBLE VERSE: Romans 8:38-39 (New King James Version)
For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
 

Weekly Bible Study 
The Extra Catholic Books, by Donald P. Ames
'Many today are sadly lacking in information as to the extra books found in the Catholic Bible and just exactly how they got there. Many Catholics sincerely wonder why and how we can say we have the Bible and yet do not include these extra books which are obviously to be found in theirs.'




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
 

 This Week's Videos:
 Yes, We’re in a Cold War with China: The Playbook to Take Down the US EXPOSED | Ep 252
"Did the Chinese spy balloon incident FINALLY wake up Washington? A recently leaked memo from the head of the U.S. Mobility Command came with a startling statement. The Air Force general said that he believes we will be AT WAR with China in just two years. As scary as that sounds, Glenn argues that we’ve been at war with China FOR DECADES — it's just that China has been the only one fighting it. As each decade goes by, Chinese governments have been getting bolder and bolder while WE pretend nothing is happening. Glenn reveals the playbook the Chinese military have used to wage a cold war on our country … in their OWN WORDS. It involves Hollywood, drugs, the media, technology, the economy … EVERYTHING. For the Chinese Communist Party, no strategy is out of bounds. It is ALL happening now, while we watch from the sidelines. Glenn speaks to Richard Grenell, former acting director of national intelligence under Trump, who warns that our intelligence community has a crisis on its hands. Grenell says the Biden admin was caught flat-footed and both Democrats and Republicans are concerned that Biden’s director of national intelligence, Avril Haines, is NOT being transparent with committee members in classified meetings."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGkLuFH5FDU
 

Spot light Stories
The real digital pirates.
Many fall victims to these digital thugs, including me! Here are some stories on the subject--Peter Ripley


 
 
 


The Port Angeles Globe is a weekly Publication, every Saturday-- Publisher, Peter Ripley
Your donation is appreciated.

Saturday, February 11, 2023

Housing projects for people experiencing homelessness in Washington will share $9-million federal grant.


Source link: WA Commerce Dept.


Rural communities are focus of investments in nine new projects statewide

OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington State Department of Commerce was awarded a $9 million grant last week from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that will provide new housing for people experiencing homelessness in Island, Klickitat, Mason, Skamania, Thurston, Whatcom and Yakima counties. Funds will be used over the next three years for a variety of supports including temporary rent assistance, project operations and supportive services for emergency housing assistance, as well as permanent housing solutions.


“Availability of rapid housing and supportive services is critical to bringing people inside today and preventing homelessness over the long term. This funding from HUD will immediately help to expand the work our service providers are able to do in communities all over the state,” said Gov. Jay Inslee.


“Washington is known for innovation and collaboration in addressing our greatest challenges, and homelessness is no different,” said Commerce Director Lisa Brown. “We are grateful to HUD for recognizing our successful approaches and partnerships that are making a difference. Homelessness is not just an urban problem, and this funding will be important to expanding some of those efforts in our rural communities.”


Projects receiving funds are:


Mason County


$613,083 to Community Lifeline of Mason County for supportive services and housing navigation for adults experiencing homelessness. Funds will support case management and peer counseling for 35 adults at a time.

$385,350 to Quixote Communities for 30 units of permanent supportive housing for veterans experiencing chronic homelessness. Funds will go toward case management and maintenance. Housing provided through Bremerton Housing Authority vouchers.

$1.5 million to Shelton Family Center – The Youth Connection for transitional housing/rapid rehousing. Funds will be used for case management and facility operating costs to provide temporary emergency housing and/or rental assistance for up to 32 youth and young adult households at a time.

$1.19 million to Shelton Family Center – The Youth Connection to support facility operations for an outreach and drop-in center for youth and young adults experiencing homelessness.

Yakima County


$1.65 million to Yakima Neighborhood Health Services for the Neighborhood Inn project that will provide 36 units of low-barrier permanent supportive housing for individuals and families experiencing chronic homelessness. Funds will be used for case management and maintenance.

Whatcom County


$1.5 million to Unity Care Northwest for The Way Station project, expanding services at a downtown Bellingham day shelter with a new clinic and hygiene program, including health care, bathing facilities, medical respite care and case management. Capacity is over 150 people each day.

Klickitat County


$809, 603 to Washington Gorge Action Program to expand services through a new program providing emergency housing vouchers and temporary rental assistance for approximately 28 households at a time. Funds will pay for leasing and supportive services costs.

Thurston County


$646,800 to Family Support Center of South Sound to hire additional intake staff for the coordinated entry system. Funding will decrease wait times for intake and assessment and strengthen partnerships with other local housing providers.

Island County


$635,543 to Spin Café to expand supportive services at a low-barrier day shelter. Funds will used to hire additional staff and lease a new building enabling the program to operate seven days a week, serving up to 100 people each day.

Commerce collaborated with local homeless service providers and investment partners to identify projects and apply for a share of the $315 million HUD awarded through the Continuum of Care Program (CofC). This funding targets unsheltered homelessness in the country’s rural communities. HUD awarded grants based on need, past performance, current capacity, leveraging other community resources (such as housing and health care), and state plans for using this and other fund sources to end homelessness.


In addition to the $9 million grant that must be spent over the next three years, more than $3 million is eligible for renewal annually after that.


IN OTHER STATE NEWS HEADLINES...


Ecology gets six federal grants to protect 855 acres of coastal wetlands--DOE


Comment period extended for new PFAS cleanup guidance--DOE


WDFW seeks public input on draft co-manager hatchery policy.--WDFW


Commissioner of Public Lands Testifies in Favor of Statewide Wildfire Impacts Bill--DNR


2) NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO DC.


Murray Joins Colleagues in Reintroducing Bicameral Bill Requiring SCOTUS to Follow Code of Ethics.

(Washington, D.C.) – As public confidence in the Supreme Court falls to an all-time low, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.) joined Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) in reintroducing the Supreme Court Ethics Act, requiring the Judicial Conference of the United States to create a code of ethical conduct for the Supreme Court of the United States. The legislation would also require the appointment of an Ethics Investigations Counsel and require justices to publicly disclose recusal decisions.


Murray, Colleagues, Advocates Rally and Make Clear: Child Care Has to Be on the Agenda This Congress.

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a former preschool teacher herself, led a rally with colleagues in Congress, child care advocates and champions, and her SOTU guest, Angélica—a Washington state mom who’s struggled to find the affordable child care she needs—to underscore the need to make more progress on child care this Congress as new reports make clear the gravity of the crisis and the sweeping costs it’s imposing on our entire economy.


KILMER INVITES VIETNAM WAR PERIOD VETERANS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO CEREMONIES IN BELFAIR, GIG HARBOR

VIETNAM WAR PERIOD VETERANS INVITED TO RECEIVE VIETNAM VETERAN LAPEL PIN.


KILMER REACTS TO PRESIDENT BIDEN’S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS

KILMER ATTENDS PRESIDENT’S SPEECH WITH PUYALLUP TRIBE CHAIRMAN AS GUEST.


Cantwell to Southwest Exec: “My Constituents Want to Know If You're Going to Fix This System and When"

During Commerce Committee hearing, Cantwell presses airline COO on failure that left 2 million travelers stranded; Demands COO contact Seattle high school basketball coach seeking full reimbursement after team got stuck in Vegas: “I know you're a busy guy -- but what they really wanted was for you to call them.”


Cantwell Hears WA Residents’ Holiday Travel Stories: “It’s Clear That There Was a System Failure at Southwest”

Constituents from King, Clark, Skagit & Spokane counties share tales of missed holidays, thousands of dollars spent, and lack of communication from Southwest; Cantwell’s Commerce Committee will hold hearing Thursday to question Southwest COO Andrew Watterson about operational failures and refund status.



3) World & National Headlines:


WORLD:


Dae’sh Still Sizeable Threat, Senior Counter-Terrorism Officials Warn Security Council, Citing Group’s Growing Use of New Technologies, Lag in Repatriating Foreign Fighter

Context-Specific Approaches to Remedy Socioeconomic Divide in Terrorism-Plagued Countries Key for Ending Scourge, Delegates Say.--UN PRESS RELEASE


Do More to Prevent Least Developed Countries from Falling into Debt Traps, Says Deputy Secretary-General, at Event on Doha Program of Action--UN PRESS RELEASE


Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at a United Nations Screening of U.S. and the Holocaust--USUN


Secretary Antony J. Blinken At Diplomatic Culinary Partnership Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony--US STATE DEPT.


NATIONAL


Remarks of President Joe Biden – State of the Union Address as Prepared for Delivery--WH


related stories

15 Whoppers Joe Biden Told During The State Of The Union Address--The Federalist


Biden's State of the Union Ratings Were Embarrassingly Bad--PJ MEDIA


Falling Behind in Biden’s Economy

The president tried to paint a rosy picture during his State of the Union speech, but the American people aren’t picking up what he’s laying down.--Patriot Post


In other National news...


Pharmacist Convicted for $1M Prescription Drug Fraud

A federal jury in the Middle District of Florida convicted a Virginia man today for his role in a scheme to defraud Medicare of over $1 million in prescription drug benefits.--DOJ


DOD Is Focused on China, Defense Official Says--DOD


HUD ISSUES UPDATED GUIDANCE TO ENHANCE USE OF SUPPORTIVE SERVICES PROGRAMS AT PROPERTIES FOR LOW-INCOME SENIORS

Guidance for owners of properties participating in HUD’s Multifamily Section 202 Project Rental Assistance Contract program reinforces use of supportive services funds to help seniors live independently--HUD


Letter to U.S. Governors from HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra on renewing COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE)--HHS


4) BUSINESS NEWS


Nearly 40,000 Victims Receive Over $115M in Compensation for Fraud Schemes Processed by MoneyGram

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) announced today the disbursement of over $115 million to 38,889 victims in connection with fraud schemes processed by MoneyGram International Inc. (MoneyGram). The victims, many of whom are elderly, will recover the full amount of their losses.--DOJ


The Inflation Rate for Necessities: A Look at Food, Energy and Shelter Inflation--THE FED


2022 Was Another Record Year for U.S. Farm Exports--USDA


New IRS feature allows taxpayers electronically filing amended returns to choose direct deposit to speed refunds--IRS


5) LOCAL MEETINGS


CLALLAM COUNTY MEETINGS


Clallam County Work session for 2/13/23

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02132023-722


Clallam County Board meeting for 2/14/23

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02142023-723


Port of Port Angeles Commission meeting 2/14/23

https://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02142023-652


City of Sequim Council meeting for 2/13/23

https://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/2754


City of Forks Council meeting for 2/13/23

https://forkswashington.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Agenda-20230213.pdf


Clallam County PUD meeting for 2/13/23

https://clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/2-13-23-WEB-Packet.pdf


OMC meeting for 2/15/23

https://www.olympicmedical.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/AGENDA-February-15-2023-Business-Meeting.pdf


JEFFERSON COUNTY MEETINGS


Jefferson County Commission meeting for 2/13/23

https://media.avcaptureall.cloud/meeting/e2e54195-38a3-4a08-a327-e8daa53a64a0


PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING AGENDA for 2/13/23

https://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=1964





Weekly devotional

BIBLE VERSE: 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 (New King James Version)
Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil;
 

Weekly Bible Study 
The Da Vinci Code: A Review, by Ken Green
The Da Vinci Code, a novel by Dan Brown, has been at the top of the best seller lists for over two years.




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
 

 This Week's Videos:
 Glenn: Biden’s SOTU was the most BIZARRE one I've EVER seen.
No logical person possibly could listen to President Biden’s State of the Union and understand it, Glenn says, because it was completely full of LIES. In this clip, Glenn gives his thoughts on Biden’s SOTU speech, explaining why it was ’one of the most bizarre things I have ever seen.’ Plus, Glenn reminds us — and, most importantly, Joe Biden — of one the most important aspects of the presidency: 'Perhaps you need a reminder of that oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.' 
 



 HEADLINES FROM OTHER SOURCES:
 



The Port Angeles Globe is a weekly Publication, every Saturday-- Publisher, Peter Ripley
Your donation is appreciated.



FROM NIGHT OWL COMICS
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY 



Saturday, February 4, 2023

Looking back on 2022: Hunger relief

Amber Betts, WSDA

Link Source : https://wastatedeptag.blogspot.com/2023/01/looking-back-on-2022-hunger-relief.html


" Below is an overview of the multiple programs run by Food Assistance – in partnership with hundreds of food pantries, food banks, tribes, and other hunger relief organizations – and their impact in 2022."--Amber Betts


Commodity Supplemental Food Program

A federally funded (United States Department of Agriculture – USDA) program that provides necessary food staples to low-income adults 60 years of age and over. Food Assistance provided $510,000.00 to agencies throughout Washington State to run this program. In 2022, 6154 seniors received monthly, nutrition-focused food packages, the value of which totaled $1.9 million.

Emergency Food Assistance Program

A state-funded program that provides funding to food banks and food pantries to assist with costs associated with hunger relief – including food, operating costs, training, and equipment. In 2022, Food Assistance provided $8.3 million in operational funding to agencies throughout Washington State, and these agencies (community food pantries) leveraged the funds to distribute 181 million pounds of food to 8.4 million food insecure Washington residents.

Emergency Food Assistance Program – Tribal

Through this state-funded program, 31 Washington State tribes received $870,000 in operational funding for their tribal food pantry and voucher programs. These operational funds support both food vouchers (with which food can be purchased from community supermarkets) and tribal food pantry operating costs (including food, training, and equipment), helping to feed 27,000 tribal members in 2022.

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)

A primarily federally funded (USDA) program that provides food (fresh, frozen, and shelf-stable) to hunger relief organizations (including food pantries and meal programs) for distribution to the community. In 2022, the Food Assistance program purchased and coordinated 894 truckloads, and distributed 21 million pounds of food across the state (worth over $30 million), in addition to $7 million of operational funding.

Resiliency Grants and Initiatives

This program, established in 2021, aims to address crisis and build resiliency in the Washington hunger relief system in response to COVID-19 and its long-term effects. Funded through the state Legislature and the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery fund (part of the American Rescue Plan Act), this program awarded more than $20 million through competitive process grants to hunger relief organizations and tribes across Washington, including many new partners. A diverse advisory committee informed the program’s design.

Some of the resiliency-building projects funded in 2022 included:

Locally grown, culturally relevant produce purchased directly from small farms for distribution.

Locally grown and raised bison, beef, fish, and wheat for processing and distribution.

New and repaired coolers and freezers for increased fresh and perishable food capacity.

Costs of operation, including delivery, staffing (including living wages), rent, and more.

Refrigerated vehicles for home delivery, mobile pantries, and regional food distribution.

Warehouse equipment for increased efficiency, capacity, and safety.

Farm to Food Pantry

This program (established in 2014 with Harvest Against Hunger) encourages local resiliency through the establishment of long-term partnerships between hunger relief organizations and small-scale farmers. Through these partnerships, fresh produce is purchased from small farms, then distributed to food-insecure communities. In 2022, 25 participating agencies across 30 counties created new selling markets for 162 small farms. The $263,700 received directly by farmers resulted in 147,708 pounds of nutritious produce that was distributed to the community through 215 hunger relief locations.

TEFAP Farm to Food Bank

This is a federally funded (USDA) short-term grant program (established in 2019) to help reduce food waste and create partnerships between local farmers and growers with the hunger relief organizations in their area. In 2022, approximately $153,000 was awarded to four agencies to harvest, process, and distribute food donated by local growers. And through these partnerships, 127,098 pounds of fresh and processed food was rescued to be distributed to food-insecure individuals.


Cook WA Meal Kit


A pilot program established in 2022, modeled after meal kit companies like Hello Fresh. The Food Assistance team partnered with SNAP-Ed and Washington chefs to develop nutritious recipes for food pantry customers. Eleven food banks and one tribal nation participated in 2022, co-packing food, sauces, spices, and recipe cards into over 35,000 two-meal-equivalent meal kits for distribution through food pantries.

Reserve Food Warehouse


To help with stability in the hunger relief network amidst food shortages and rising food costs in 2022, Food Assistance team members used a partner organization warehouse to hold purchased shelf-stable foods to be released as needed to the hunger relief network. Over 26 truckloads carrying 974,555 pounds of food were purchased, stored, and distributed to the network from this warehouse in 2022.

TEFAP Reach and Resiliency

A federally funded (USDA) short-term grant established in 2022, helping to expand the TEFAP program into more remote, rural, tribal, low-income, and underserved areas by supporting the additional operating costs; $827,000 was awarded in 2022.

Local Food Purchasing Assistance

A federally funded (USDA-AMS) short-term grant program that helps improve regional supply chain resiliency through partnership. In 2022, $2.7 million was awarded to 29 hunger relief organizations and tribes to establish direct purchase partnerships with socially disadvantaged farmers, producers, and ranchers across the state.


IN OTHER STATE NEWS HEADLINES:


Tukwila property owner penalized for oil spill to the Duwamish River.

TUKWILA – 

A Tukwila property owner has been served a $28,000 penalty after allowing oil to leak into the Duwamish River. John Roach leased space on his riverfront property to several businesses and individuals, including semi-truck companies, allowing the land to be improperly used for vehicle maintenance. The property has a documented history of spills and other violations.--DOE


Newest round of clean-water funding focuses on small communities

$303 million proposed for projects across the state.

We're proposing to award $303 million in grants and loans for 114 high-priority clean water projects across the state. Our Water Quality Combined Funding program supports communities by helping them upgrade wastewater treatment and sewer systems, manage polluted stormwater, and complete a variety of other projects to prevent and clean up diffuse sources of pollution, also known as nonpoint pollution.--DOE


Yakima County massage therapist suspended on allegations of sexual misconduct.

OLYMPIA – State health officials suspended the license of Yakima County massage therapist Jesus Bautista Rodriguez (MA60736453) pending further legal action.--DOH


New WDFW report calls for science-based approaches for climate-resilient water supply.

OLYMPIA – A new report recently released by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) calls for new strategies and policy tools to address consequences of increasing human demand for water and the effects of climate change on Washington’s rivers and streams. --WDFW




(2) NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO DC


KILMER APPLAUDS DECISION TO APPROVE PERMANENT CLEAN WATER ACT PROTECTIONS FOR BRISTOL BAY, BLOCKING PROPOSED MINE.

Link Source: Rep. Kilmer's office


WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) applauded the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) final determination to approve permanent Clean Water Act protections for Bristol Bay, blocking the proposed Pebble Mine.


“I applaud the Environmental Protection Agency for taking the necessary steps to ensure Bristol Bay is permanently protected,” said Rep. Kilmer. “The Pebble Mine would threaten our fisheries, impacting not only the environment but also our economy. At a time when Washingtonians can’t afford a hit to their livelihoods, we need to make sure that we’re acting to protect our natural resources and the jobs that depend upon them.”


The Pebble Mine is a proposed open-pit mine that would excavate gold, molybdenum sulfite, and copper from 150 square miles of the Bristol Bay watershed. In January 2014, the EPA released a report titled “Assessment of Potential Mining Impacts on Salmon Ecosystems of Bristol Bay, Alaska.” The report concluded that allowing a mine in the Bristol Bay Watershed would destroy as many as 94 miles of salmon streams and up to 5,350 acres of wetlands, including important spawning grounds.


More congressional news...


KILMER APPOINTED TO REGIONAL LEADERSHIP COUNCIL BY HOUSE DEMOCRATIC LEADER JEFFRIES

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Monday, January 30, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer was appointed to Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries's newly created Regional Leadership Council. The Council – which consists of members from each of the twelve regions of the Democratic Caucus – will be led by former Democratic Leader Steny Hoyer, the former Majority Leader of the House of Representatives.


Cantwell, Murray Introduce Resolution Recognizing National Girls & Women in Sports Day.


Cantwell, First U.S. Senator to Oppose Pebble Mine, Celebrates EPA Decision to Save Prolific Bristol Bay Salmon Run

Cantwell: “This is the final nail in the coffin for the Pebble Mine;” Bristol Bay salmon generate $500 million annually for WA state and support 5,000 jobs.


Senator Murray, Representative Kilmer Announce over $5 Million for Electric Infrastructure in Jefferson County.


Senator Murray Issues Statement on FDA Food Oversight Reforms, Will Continue Pushing to Ensure Improvement.


(3) WORLD & NATIONAL HEADLINES


WORLD:

Following Year of Political Discord, Iraq's New Government Tackles Pressing Challenges, Institutes Reforms, Senior Official Tells Security Council

Country Representative Details Initiatives, Reforms, Diplomatic Endeavours--UN PRESS RELEASE

https://press.un.org/en/2023/sc15189.doc.htm

In its first three months in office, Iraq’s new Government has shown its commitment to tackle the most pressing challenges facing the country, including endemic corruption, poor public service delivery and high levels of unemployment, the senior United Nations official in the country told the Security Council today, while underscoring the need of accountability.


Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), said that, since 2003, too many opportunities to conduct meaningful reform have been wasted due to pervasive corruption.  However, Iraq’s new Government, ending more than a year of tensions, political discord and power play, has tackled the myriad national challenges, including the recovery of stolen funds and the investigation of corruption allegations.


Encouraging the Iraqi Government to persevere, she called for systemic change through socioeconomic reform, stronger institutions and better governance.  She also spotlighted the recent victory of Iraq’s national football team, adding that after decades of violence, Iraq’s hosting of the Gulf Cup for the first time since 1979 was a testimony to a return to normality the country’s potential to rally not only the nation but also regional partners around a common and positive objective.


Nonetheless, there are concern over violations of Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, she noted, declaring:  “Messaging by strikes does nothing but recklessly heighten tensions, kill people and destroy property.”  Moreover, Iraq is one of the most explosive-ordnance-contaminated countries in the world, she said, noting that in 2022, those remnants of war are the leading cause of child casualties and one third of civilian casualties.


Echoing her concerns, Dr. Ahmed, Director of Donor and International Relations, Iraqi Health and Social Care Organization, also described Iraq as one of the most explosive-ordnance-contaminated countries in the world.  Decades of successive wars and conflicts — including the latest conflict with Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), also known as Da'esh — have created an obstacle to the safe and dignified return of Iraq’s 1.2 million displaced persons and a threat to people’s lives.


He also described the process of accreditation for mine action organizations as lengthy and wasteful.  Citing a “steep winding down in donor funding” that has hit mine action operators — in particular national non-governmental organizations — he reported that humanitarian funding for local actors dropped from 4.7 per cent in 2020 to 2 per cent in 2021, far from the target of 25 per cent.  Nonetheless, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) has been leading efforts to “localize” demining processes through a model that brings together international and national non-governmental organizations to transfer skills and knowledge.


In the ensuing discussion, many speakers, congratulating Iraq’s national football team for its recent victory, commended not only the formation of the new Government, but the appointment of three women to the Cabinet, while also stressing the need to combat corruption, tackle unemployment and promote security in the country.


Japan’s delegate, underlining the importance of UNAMI’s electoral assistance, also welcomed the Iraqi Government’s active engagement in building confidence among neighbouring countries through regional dialogues.  In that regard, closure of the United Nations Compensation Commission in December 2022 — following Iraq’s final payment to Kuwait — marked an important milestone.  He also drew attention to steady cooperation between Iraq and Kuwait on missing Kuwaiti and third-country nationals and missing Kuwaiti property.


In another vein, the representative of China warned that the current situation in Iraq remains dire as terrorists are still conducting asymmetric attacks, resulting in casualties among civilians.  He called on the international community to support Iraq in combating terrorism, eliminating extremist forces, such as Da’esh, preventing their return and consolidating hard-won gains in countering terrorism.


Along similar lines, Albania’s delegate expressed concern about continued attacks by terrorist groups, voicing support for Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.  He also drew attention to the risks posed to Iraq by climate change, which are already seriously impacting the country’s security and human rights situations.


The representative of Mozambique, also speaking for Gabon and Ghana, said that, while the end of Iraq’s year-long political deadlock is encouraging, efforts to ensure the defeat of Da’esh, and international support for Iraq’s role in that endeavour, must continue.


Rounding up the discussion, Iraq’s delegate, outlining the Government’s new priorities, noted they are built upon international partnerships and focus on holding early elections, countering corruption, countering poverty and unemployment, and improving national security, among others.  Reporting on improved relations between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government, he said talks are under way on legislation relating to oil and gas, customs revenues and other matters.  He also reported that 4 million internally displaced persons have already returned to Iraq.


Moreso, after four decades of discriminatory policies, a recent decree guarantees land ownership rights to Yazidis, he said, calling for increased international support for services provided to victims of Da’esh crimes.  In addition, he pledged the new Government’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals — which are being hindered by climate change and the scarcity of water resources — noting that Iraq has implemented several green economy projects to date.


In other world headlines...


UN aid convoys deliver lifesaving relief to Ukraine’s war-ravaged east.

Two UN aid convoys have reached communities with acute needs near the contact line in Ukraine’s war-shattered east this week, relief coordinators reported on Friday.


Ethiopia: Northern aid access improving but some areas still hard to reach.

UN humanitarians on Thursday reported that aid access in the north is continuing to improve with aid operations expanding following last November’s ceasefire agreement, but some civilians in the battle-scarred region “remain hard to reach.”


Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s Interview with Nick Schifrin of PBS NewsHour--USUN


Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs Sison’s Travel to Seattle, Washington--US STATE DEPT.

Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs Michele Sison will travel to Seattle, Washington, February 6-7, 2023, to highlight America’s multilateral leadership and to discuss the many ways in which that leadership reflects U.S. values of democracy and human rights and contributes to our country’s safety, security, and prosperity.  During her visit, the Assistant Secretary will headline events hosted by the World Affairs Council of Seattle and meet with students at the University of Washington and Seattle University to discuss today’s shared global challenges, as well as career opportunities at the Department of State and in international organizations.


NATIONAL:


New Jersey Man and Company Operating Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities in Wisconsin Charged with Health Care Fraud--DOJ

Thursday, February 2, 2023

New Jersey Man and Company Operating Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities in Wisconsin Charged with Health Care Fraud

A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin returned an indictment yesterday charging Kevin Breslin, 56, of Hoboken, New Jersey, and KBWB Operations, LLC, doing business as Atrium Health and Senior Living (Atrium) in Park Ridge, New Jersey, with a scheme to defraud Medicare and Medicaid in connection with the delivery of or payment for health care benefits, items, or services.


The indictment alleges that the scheme operated from January 2015 to September 2018. The indictment charges the defendants with health care fraud, six counts of wire fraud, three counts of mail fraud, conspiracy to commit tax fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.


According to the indictment, Breslin was the Chief Executive Officer of Atrium, which operated 24 skilled nursing facilities and nine assisted living facilities in Wisconsin and Michigan. These facilities included:


Atrium Post Acute Care of Appleton, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Black River Falls, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Bloomer, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Chetek, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Chilton, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Ellsworth, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Kewaunee, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Lancaster, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Little Chute, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Marshfield, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Menominee, Michigan;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Mineral Point, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Neenah, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of New Holstein, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Oconto Falls, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Plymouth, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Shawano, Wisconsin, at Birch Hill,

Atrium Post Acute Care of Shawano, Wisconsin, at Evergreen,

Atrium Post Acute Care of Shawano, Wisconsin, at Maple Lane,

Atrium Post Acute Care of Stevens Point, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Two Rivers, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Weston, Wisconsin;

Atrium Post Acute Care of Williams Bay, Wisconsin; and

Atrium Post Acute Care of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin.

The indictment alleges that from January 2015 through September 2018, Atrium billed Medicare for over $189,000,000 and received over $49,000,000 and that they billed Medicaid for over $218,000,000 and received over $93,000,000. The indictment alleges that when the defendants obtained money from Medicare and Medicaid, they certified that they would follow all required quality of care standards, but they did not do so, and that they would operate their facilities with adequate staffing, supplies, and services, but they did not do so.


The indictment alleges that as part of the scheme to defraud, Breslin and Atrium diverted funds from the Wisconsin facilities through guaranteed payments to Atrium owners, guaranteed monthly return-on-investment payments to investors that were financing the construction of skilled nursing facilities in New Jersey, and construction costs for the New Jersey facilities. The indictment further alleges that the diversion of funds caused inadequate care of residents, including a shortage of clean diapers, inadequate wound care supplies, inadequate cleaning supplies, and a lack of durable medical equipment and respiratory supplies. In addition, the diversion of funds caused non-payment to vendors, which caused numerous services to be cut off, including physical therapy for residents, fire alarm monitoring services, phone and internet services preventing staff from obtaining prescription orders and accessing electronic medical records systems, and necessary repairs and maintenance of the physical plant facilities.


In addition, the indictment alleges that Breslin and Atrium withheld insurance premiums from employees’ paychecks but failed to pay those monies over to the third-party administrator for use in paying health claims, causing payment of employees’ health claims to be stopped. The indictment further alleges that the defendants withheld 401(k) retirement savings account contributions from employees’ paychecks but failed to pay those monies over to the third-party pension administrator.


The indictment also alleges that Breslin and Atrium evaded payment to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue and the Internal Revenue Service of state and federal income taxes and employment taxes withheld from employees’ paychecks.


If convicted, Breslin and Atrium face penalties of five years in federal prison on the conspiracy to commit tax fraud charge, and 20 years on each health care fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering charge. The conspiracy to commit tax fraud charge and each of the health care, wire and mail fraud charges carry a $250,000 fine; the money laundering charge carries a $500,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.


Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division and U.S. Attorney Timothy M. O’Shea for the Western District of Wisconsin made the announcement.


The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; IRS Criminal Investigation; the U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration; the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Medicare Fraud Control and Elder Abuse Unit; and the FBI investigated this case.


Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Graber for the Western District of Wisconsin and Trial Attorney Karla-Dee Clark of the Consumer Protection Branch of the Justice Department’s Civil Division are prosecuting the case.


In other national news:


Three Individuals Charged with Operating Multimillion-Dollar Elder Fraud Scheme

A federal grand jury in Las Vegas returned an indictment yesterday charging three individuals with operating a mail fraud scheme that defrauded thousands of U.S. victims, many of whom were elderly and vulnerable.--DOJ


HUD ANNOUNCES NEW RESOURCES FOR ADVANCING HOUSING PROTECTIONS FOR SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, DATING VIOLENCE, SEXUAL ASSAULT, AND STALKING

New Website, Technical Assistance and Enforcement Guidance Strengthen Protections for Survivors Applying for and Living in HUD-Assisted Properties.


HUD AWARDS $315 MILLION IN HISTORIC GRANTS TO ADDRESS UNSHELTERED AND RURAL HOMELESSNESS

The first of its kind package of grants and vouchers follows progress of 100,000 people and families housed and 40,000 housing units added to development pipeline by House America communities


(4) BUSINESS HEADLINE NEWS



Washington State:


Cryptocurrency website M.LBNK123.COM appears to be engaged in fraud.--DFI


The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI), Securities Division has received a complaint from a Washington resident regarding a purported cryptocurrency website, m.lbnk123.com. The investor was introduced to an individual named “Zhenhai Yu” (“Yu”) through social media. Yu told the investor to invest in Tether (“USDT”) stablecoins claiming they would shortly triple in value.


Yu initially sent the investor a link to the website, lbank.info[1]. Yu explained that LBank is a cryptocurrency exchange that would hold the investor’s USDT. After agreeing to invest, Yu sent the investor a separate link to M.LBNK123.COM, claiming the website was associated with the LBank website. The website opens to a purported Lbank login page. Yu told the investor to start an account on M.LBNK123.COM and wire funds to a third party overseas that would purchase the USDT and deposit them into the investor’s supposed LBank account.


Shortly after investing, the USDT in the investor’s Lbank account purportedly tripled in value. Yu told the investor that in order to receive a higher return, the investor needed to invest more money. The investor invested a few more times, for a total of $65,000, and wired the funds to other third parties within the United States.


The investor attempted to close and withdraw the funds from their LBank account but was unable to do so. LBank “customer service” claimed that that the investor could not withdraw their funds because the investor had entered into a contract and agreed to borrow $300,000. The investor was told that they would not be able to withdraw funds from their account until they invest $300,000. Yu told the investor that if they did not pay, they would also lose their investment and money. The investor lost their entire $65,000 investment. These allegations have not been verified by DFI.


This appears to be related to a scam that is on the rise called, “Pig Butchering.” (https://www.ic3.gov/Media/Y2022/PSA221003).  This scheme involves fraudsters contacting victims online, gaining their trust, and advising them to invest on fake websites or applications. After investing, these fake websites or applications may give the impression their investments are making large returns. The fraudsters may misspell URLs to make it appear they are associated with a financial institution or cryptocurrency exchange.


This also appears to be what is commonly called an “Advance Fee Fraud(link is external).”


How to Protect Yourself from Fraud

DFI urges consumers to exercise extreme caution before responding to any solicitation offering investment or financial services. Investment professionals need to be licensed with DFI to offer investments to Washington residents. In addition, most investment products sold need to be registered with DFI.


To check the licensing status and to find out if there are any complaints against an investment professional or investment product, please visit FINRA Brokercheck(link is external) or contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions, Securities Division at (360) 902-8760.


If you live outside of Washington State, contact your state securities reg


IN OTHER BUSINESS HEADLINES:


Treasury Updates Vehicle Classification Standard for Clean Vehicle Tax Credits Under Inflation Reduction Act--US TREASURY


Federal Open Market Committee reaffirms its "Statement on Longer-Run Goals and Monetary Policy Strategy"--THE FED


Key points to keep in mind when filing 2022 tax returns--IRS


USDA Continues Laying Foundation for More and Better Markets with Launch of Pilot Cattle Contracts Library--USDA


(5) LOCAL MEETINGS


CLALLAM COUNTY MEETINGS


Clallam County Commission work session for 2/6/23

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02062023-716


Clallam County Commission meeting for 2/7/23

https://www.clallamcountywa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02072023-717


A special meeting will be held February 8th  at 1 PM for a Clallam Community-BPA Stakeholder Meeting. 

https://clallampud.net/commission-meetings/



JEFFERSON COUNTY MEETINGS


Jefferson County Commission meeting for 2/6/23

https://media.avcaptureall.cloud/meeting/2071e2cd-c9c0-4ef5-bfa3-5271e1ca5e7b


PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA

for 2/6/23

https://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=3106


Port of Port Townsend Commission meeting for 2/8/23

https://portofpt.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-02-08-CommMtg-Agenda.pdf



Weekly devotional

BIBLE VERSE: Psalm 18:1-2 (New King James Version)
To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David the servant of the Lord, who spoke to the Lord the words of this song on the day that the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. And he said:
I will love You, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
 

Weekly Bible Study 
The Church of Oprah, by Dan Gatlin
For decades, Oprah Winfrey has proclaimed faith in Jesus Christ. Yet, when one examines Oprah’s Jesus, he is not the same Jesus found in the New Testament.




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
 

 This Week's Videos:
 The COVID Blueprint: The Next 'Crisis' Globalists Will Use to Control YOU | Glenn TV | Ep 249
The annual World Economic Forum meeting a couple of weeks ago coincided with the release of the WEF's 2023 Global Cybersecurity Outlook. The WEF predicted a major “catastrophic cyber event” within the next 24 months. What do WEF members know that we don’t? As cyber attacks have escalated globally, everyone from NATO to the IMF and Central Banks are conducting war games. Remember Event 201 in November 2019, where people involved with WEF and like-minded elites conducted a war game involving a coronavirus pandemic? Coincidentally, a COVID pandemic followed soon after. Everything that was war-gamed during Event 201 — lockdowns, mandates, supply chain disruptions, and vaccinations — ALL became our reality. It was probably the biggest increase in government control since the progressive era and the biggest assault on freedom in our lifetime. What are they planning for this next big catastrophe? We are one “crisis” away from the end of privacy, liberty, and free will.
 



 HEADLINES FROM OTHER SOURCES:
 GOP Right To Deny Ilhan Omar a Committee Seat--PJ MEDIA

It’s All Omar but the Crying
Jew-hating Democrat Ilhan Omar was booted from the House Foreign Affairs Committee.--Patriot Post

Tyre Nichols Fatally Beaten by Invisible White People
Leading lights on the left identify white racism as the root cause of Nichols’ death.--American Spectator
  

The Port Angeles Globe is a weekly Publication, every Saturday-- Publisher, Peter Ripley
Your donation is appreciated.