Saturday, March 4, 2017
DOE: Changes proposed for stormwater, wastewater permit fees(corrected headline)
Public invited to review and comment through April 11
OLYMPIA – To help recoup the costs to implement the state’s water quality permitting program that protects lakes, rivers and marine waters from pollution, the Department of Ecology is proposing an increase in annual fees that industries, local governments and others pay to be covered by stormwater and wastewater discharge permits.
Permits protect clean water by setting limits on how much pollution may be discharged into the environment. Permit holders also receive technical assistance from the state when pollution problems occur.
The fee changes being considered would cover the state’s increasing costs over the next two years due to inflation.
Fees, required by state law, can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars, depending on the type of activity the permit covers.
Nearly 6,000 local governments and businesses have water quality permits that allow them to discharge limited amounts of pollution. Ecology is accepting public comments on the proposal through April 11.
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/news/2017/023.htmlhttp://www.ecy.wa.gov/news/2017/023.html
For meetings and news commentaries click here
News Notebook
From the minutes of the last PA City Council meeting:
Manager McKeen spoke about the citizen petition to revert to Second Class City status, noting that he plans to engage a subject matter expert to provide a formal legal opinion on the petition. Manager McKeen said that Council will receive a report at its March 21 meeting.
Related news Story:
PORT O CALL: LETTER TO THE EDITOR, Eloise Kailin M.D., Chair Our Water Our Choice PAC
A petition to City of Port Angeles for Change of Government , signed by over a thousand registered voters, and certified by County Auditor has been waiting since last May for the City Attorney to issue its ballot title.
http://portocallpublishing.com/2017/02/letter-to-the-editor-from-dr-eloise-kailin/
Editorial Comment: It amazes me how some are still clinging on a ballot measure coming next fall which by all accounts a moot point. Point one, if you recall the city council agreed to put the issue on continuing fluoridation on next November ballot, and the mayor made sure the council would accept the outcome of that vote. Which by the way should have happened from the start. Point two: A new council will be elected into office next November, perhaps replacing at least three council members who chose to ignore the will of the people in that Citizen Advisory poll which was mailed to the utility customers.
Point three; Kailin, is assuming that all of those signers of that petition to change the city form of government will actually vote for it. Can anyone really believe that all those signers will vote for it, giving points one, and two? I think not.
Friday, March 3, 2017
"One of the fastest growing threats to our country is the danger posed by cyberattacks. "-- Rep. Kilmer
Representatives Kilmer & Comstock along with Senators Warner & Gardner Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help State, Local, and Tribal Governments Counter Cyber-Attacks
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Barbara Comstock (R-VA) along with U.S. Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and Cory Gardner (R-CO) introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to help state, local, and tribal governments more effectively counter cyber threats.
According to a 2015 Ponemon Institute study, 50 percent of state and local governments faced 6 to 25 cyber breaches in the past 24 months. In the past year hackers also breached more than 200,000 personal voter records in Illinois and Arizona. Most states currently use less than two percent of their IT budget on cybersecurity.
The State Cyber Resiliency Act would set up a cyber security grant program that would provide resources for states to develop and implement effective cyber resiliency plans. This includes efforts to identify, detect, protect, respond, and recover from cyber threats. It also encourages states to invest in the cybersecurity workforce.
read more: https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/representatives-kilmer-and-comstock-along-with-senators-warner_gardner-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-state-local-and-tribal-governments-counter-cyber-attacks-
In other news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC:
Sen. Murray: We Need Independent Investigation into Trump Campaign’s Contact with Russia, Attorney General Must Recuse Himself
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement:
“The new reports of communication between the most senior levels of the Trump Campaign and Russia are deeply troubling, and they underscore why it’s so critical to begin an independent investigation immediately to get the full scope of what happened, who was involved, and why. This isn’t about politics—this is about the integrity of our elections, our national security, and our standing around the world, and no member of Congress should stand in the way of a thorough investigation.
“With new reports that Attorney General Sessions not only had contact with Russians during the campaign but that he also misled the American people and members of Congress during his confirmation hearing, it is clearer than ever that this matter warrants further investigation. If he indeed lied, I expect him to resign. In the meantime, Attorney General Sessions should recuse himself from participating from any investigation in any way.”
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=9B7A3EC0-D734-4522-8DF5-9B23DEEF4DE5
Sen. Murray to Vote No on Gov. Perry for Energy Secretary: Unqualified to Make Critical Energy Decisions, Uphold Government’s Commitment to Hanford Cleanup
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced that she will be voting no on President Trump’s nominee to be Secretary of Energy, Governor Rick Perry. In a speech on the Senate floor, Sen. Murray outlined her concerns with his lack of experience with Department of Energy programs, and his loyalty to big oil and corporations rather than advancing our country’s energy challenges, or fighting for working families. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray is committed to making sure the federal government fulfills its legal and moral obligation to clean up Hanford in a safe and timely manner and support critical research and development conducted at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.
“Here we are again, debating yet another cabinet nominee sent over from the White House– this time, Governor Rick Perry—whose interests have been more closely aligned with those of Big Oil and corporations rather than advancing our country’s energy challenges, or fighting for the working families we represent,” said Senator Murray. “Getting the job should be borne of a solid understanding of the agency, a respect for the tens of thousands of workers they would lead, and most importantly, a commitment to putting families across the country first. So as a voice for my home state of Washington—where DOE’s presence is extremely important—I will vote no on Governor Perry’s nomination. And I urge my colleagues to do the same.”
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=A17EB3A6-91EC-431E-9B18-6C91BE22DDE8
Sen. Murray to Vote No on Dr. Carson for Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: We Need an Experienced Leader to Fight the Homelessness Epidemic and Address Affordable Housing
(Washington, D.C.) — Today, Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement on voting against Dr. Ben Carson for Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
“At a time when so many families in Washington state are struggling with the rapidly rising costs of housing, I believe Dr. Ben Carson is the wrong choice to lead the agency that directly affects them– and I will be voting no on his nomination. HUD is often the last line of defense in our country when it comes to combatting homelessness and promoting affordability, and I am deeply concerned that Dr. Carson’s past comments run counter to the department’s essential functions. As I continue to fight to help make sure the federal government is a partner to communities in Washington state and around the country to address housing affordability, I am concerned Dr. Carson does not have a strong commitment to the very federal programs he would oversee, nor the management experience to provide the strong leadership that is needed.”
Senator Murray has been a long-time champion for HUD programs like McKinney Vento, Section 8 vouchers, and HUD-VASH that work to get people off the streets and into safe, appropriate housing, and she has continually worked to help ensure these programs receive critical federal support. In 2008, Senator Murray helped restart the HUD-VASH program and has continued to help fund it every year since. Since 2008, more than 79,000 vouchers have been awarded and over 111,000 homeless veterans have been served through HUD-VASH.
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=6A52C3F7-0796-49D8-A356-DB6C6632880B
Cantwell Statement on AG Sessions’ Undisclosed Meetings with Russian Officials
Cantwell: “There are still too many questions left unanswered”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement in response to the news that Attorney General Jeff Sessions had failed to disclose two meetings he had taken with Russian officials during the 2016 presidential campaign. Since news of the meetings broke, Sessions, in the face of public pressure, announced he would recuse himself from any investigation into the presidential campaigns, including contacts between the Trump campaign and Russian officials and operatives.
“After his contact with Russian officials during the Trump campaign, it’s only appropriate that Attorney General Sessions recuse himself from these investigations; however, I am troubled by the timing of his decision. Why did it take allegations of wrong-doing for him to come to this decision rather than disclosing these meetings during his confirmation hearings?
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-ag-sessions-undisclosed-meetings-with-russian-officials
Murray, Cantwell Ask DOJ to Uphold Existing Policy on State Marijuana Laws
Letter Expresses Concern Regarding Recent Remarks by Sean Spicer on Federal Enforcement
Washington, D.C. – Today, a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators, including Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions expressing concern that the Trump administration may begin enforcing federal law in states that have legalized marijuana. It asks the U.S. Department of Justice to clarify the Trump administration’s policy on law enforcement in states that have legalized the recreational use of marijuana.
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/murray-cantwell-ask-doj-to-uphold-existing-policy-on-state-marijuana-laws
Cantwell Statement on President Trump’s Address to Congress
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement following President Donald Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress:
“President Trump’s call for ‘flexibility’ sounds a lot like the Paul Ryan plan on Medicaid. Capping Medicaid would take health care from millions, kill jobs and local economies, shutter hospitals and clinics, and shift billions of dollars in costs to states and local governments. We need to continue innovating in health care to drive better care at lower cost – not cut, cap, and block grant Medicaid. I will continue fighting to protect health care access and bring costs down for working Washingtonians and for all Americans.”
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-president-trumps-address-to-congress
For local news and headlines click here
News Notebook
Marine Corrosion Protection Workshop Offered
Washington Sea Grant, WSU Jefferson County Extension and the NW School of Wooden Boatbuilding are co-sponsoring a Marine Corrosion Protection Workshop Sunday, March 19, 2017.
This is a hands-on class for marine professionals and boat owners (both commercial and recreational). This workshop is being taught by Kevin Ritz, a ABYC certified Master Marine Technician and Certification Instructor in Electrical, Corrosion and Systems.
http://www.portofpa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=141
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Barbara Comstock (R-VA) along with U.S. Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and Cory Gardner (R-CO) introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to help state, local, and tribal governments more effectively counter cyber threats.
According to a 2015 Ponemon Institute study, 50 percent of state and local governments faced 6 to 25 cyber breaches in the past 24 months. In the past year hackers also breached more than 200,000 personal voter records in Illinois and Arizona. Most states currently use less than two percent of their IT budget on cybersecurity.
The State Cyber Resiliency Act would set up a cyber security grant program that would provide resources for states to develop and implement effective cyber resiliency plans. This includes efforts to identify, detect, protect, respond, and recover from cyber threats. It also encourages states to invest in the cybersecurity workforce.
read more: https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/representatives-kilmer-and-comstock-along-with-senators-warner_gardner-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-state-local-and-tribal-governments-counter-cyber-attacks-
In other news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC:
Sen. Murray: We Need Independent Investigation into Trump Campaign’s Contact with Russia, Attorney General Must Recuse Himself
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement:
“The new reports of communication between the most senior levels of the Trump Campaign and Russia are deeply troubling, and they underscore why it’s so critical to begin an independent investigation immediately to get the full scope of what happened, who was involved, and why. This isn’t about politics—this is about the integrity of our elections, our national security, and our standing around the world, and no member of Congress should stand in the way of a thorough investigation.
“With new reports that Attorney General Sessions not only had contact with Russians during the campaign but that he also misled the American people and members of Congress during his confirmation hearing, it is clearer than ever that this matter warrants further investigation. If he indeed lied, I expect him to resign. In the meantime, Attorney General Sessions should recuse himself from participating from any investigation in any way.”
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=9B7A3EC0-D734-4522-8DF5-9B23DEEF4DE5
Sen. Murray to Vote No on Gov. Perry for Energy Secretary: Unqualified to Make Critical Energy Decisions, Uphold Government’s Commitment to Hanford Cleanup
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced that she will be voting no on President Trump’s nominee to be Secretary of Energy, Governor Rick Perry. In a speech on the Senate floor, Sen. Murray outlined her concerns with his lack of experience with Department of Energy programs, and his loyalty to big oil and corporations rather than advancing our country’s energy challenges, or fighting for working families. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray is committed to making sure the federal government fulfills its legal and moral obligation to clean up Hanford in a safe and timely manner and support critical research and development conducted at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.
“Here we are again, debating yet another cabinet nominee sent over from the White House– this time, Governor Rick Perry—whose interests have been more closely aligned with those of Big Oil and corporations rather than advancing our country’s energy challenges, or fighting for the working families we represent,” said Senator Murray. “Getting the job should be borne of a solid understanding of the agency, a respect for the tens of thousands of workers they would lead, and most importantly, a commitment to putting families across the country first. So as a voice for my home state of Washington—where DOE’s presence is extremely important—I will vote no on Governor Perry’s nomination. And I urge my colleagues to do the same.”
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=A17EB3A6-91EC-431E-9B18-6C91BE22DDE8
Sen. Murray to Vote No on Dr. Carson for Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: We Need an Experienced Leader to Fight the Homelessness Epidemic and Address Affordable Housing
(Washington, D.C.) — Today, Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement on voting against Dr. Ben Carson for Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
“At a time when so many families in Washington state are struggling with the rapidly rising costs of housing, I believe Dr. Ben Carson is the wrong choice to lead the agency that directly affects them– and I will be voting no on his nomination. HUD is often the last line of defense in our country when it comes to combatting homelessness and promoting affordability, and I am deeply concerned that Dr. Carson’s past comments run counter to the department’s essential functions. As I continue to fight to help make sure the federal government is a partner to communities in Washington state and around the country to address housing affordability, I am concerned Dr. Carson does not have a strong commitment to the very federal programs he would oversee, nor the management experience to provide the strong leadership that is needed.”
Senator Murray has been a long-time champion for HUD programs like McKinney Vento, Section 8 vouchers, and HUD-VASH that work to get people off the streets and into safe, appropriate housing, and she has continually worked to help ensure these programs receive critical federal support. In 2008, Senator Murray helped restart the HUD-VASH program and has continued to help fund it every year since. Since 2008, more than 79,000 vouchers have been awarded and over 111,000 homeless veterans have been served through HUD-VASH.
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=6A52C3F7-0796-49D8-A356-DB6C6632880B
Cantwell Statement on AG Sessions’ Undisclosed Meetings with Russian Officials
Cantwell: “There are still too many questions left unanswered”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement in response to the news that Attorney General Jeff Sessions had failed to disclose two meetings he had taken with Russian officials during the 2016 presidential campaign. Since news of the meetings broke, Sessions, in the face of public pressure, announced he would recuse himself from any investigation into the presidential campaigns, including contacts between the Trump campaign and Russian officials and operatives.
“After his contact with Russian officials during the Trump campaign, it’s only appropriate that Attorney General Sessions recuse himself from these investigations; however, I am troubled by the timing of his decision. Why did it take allegations of wrong-doing for him to come to this decision rather than disclosing these meetings during his confirmation hearings?
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-ag-sessions-undisclosed-meetings-with-russian-officials
Murray, Cantwell Ask DOJ to Uphold Existing Policy on State Marijuana Laws
Letter Expresses Concern Regarding Recent Remarks by Sean Spicer on Federal Enforcement
Washington, D.C. – Today, a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators, including Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions expressing concern that the Trump administration may begin enforcing federal law in states that have legalized marijuana. It asks the U.S. Department of Justice to clarify the Trump administration’s policy on law enforcement in states that have legalized the recreational use of marijuana.
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/murray-cantwell-ask-doj-to-uphold-existing-policy-on-state-marijuana-laws
Cantwell Statement on President Trump’s Address to Congress
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement following President Donald Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress:
“President Trump’s call for ‘flexibility’ sounds a lot like the Paul Ryan plan on Medicaid. Capping Medicaid would take health care from millions, kill jobs and local economies, shutter hospitals and clinics, and shift billions of dollars in costs to states and local governments. We need to continue innovating in health care to drive better care at lower cost – not cut, cap, and block grant Medicaid. I will continue fighting to protect health care access and bring costs down for working Washingtonians and for all Americans.”
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-president-trumps-address-to-congress
For local news and headlines click here
News Notebook
Marine Corrosion Protection Workshop Offered
Washington Sea Grant, WSU Jefferson County Extension and the NW School of Wooden Boatbuilding are co-sponsoring a Marine Corrosion Protection Workshop Sunday, March 19, 2017.
This is a hands-on class for marine professionals and boat owners (both commercial and recreational). This workshop is being taught by Kevin Ritz, a ABYC certified Master Marine Technician and Certification Instructor in Electrical, Corrosion and Systems.
http://www.portofpa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=141
Thursday, March 2, 2017
JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT WILD OLYMPICS WENT AWAY....
WILD OLYMPICS: Senator Murray and Representative Kilmer Renew Commitment to Protecting Olympic Peninsula Wilderness, Rivers
Source: http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=E2F2CDE4-32D1-4639-8299-199F0C9D3070
(WASHINGTON, D.C.)—Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) re-introduced the Wild Olympics Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to protect environmentally sensitive parts of the Olympic Peninsula, support outdoor recreation opportunities, and preserve and grow jobs on the Olympic Peninsula.
“It is critical that we keep fighting to ensure these pristine areas of the Olympic Peninsula are preserved for generations to come,” said Senator Murray. “As someone who enjoys hiking and fishing in Washington state, I am thrilled to work with Congressman Kilmer and the local community to keep up the momentum and preserve some of Washington state’s most prized wild spaces.”
“As someone who grew up in Port Angeles, I’ve always said that we don’t have to choose between economic growth and environmental protection,” said Representative Kilmer. “I’m proud to continue fighting for a bill that is part of a practical, balanced strategy to protect our natural beauty while attracting businesses to stay, grow, and invest in our future. I’m grateful for the partnership of Senator Murray and folks throughout our region who helped develop this proposal.”
The Wild Olympics Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Act would designate 126,554 acres of existing federal land as wilderness in the Olympic National Forest and designate 464 river miles across 19 rivers and major tributaries on the Olympic Peninsula as Wild and Scenic Rivers. The wilderness designation permanently protects old growth and ancient forest habitat throughout the region. The Wild and Scenic Rivers designation would add federal recognition to the outstanding river systems on the Peninsula, protecting them as a source of clean drinking water and helping to keep Puget Sound clean for generations to come. This designation does not restrict private property rights.
Senator Murray and Representative Kilmer have spent a significant amount of time engaging with community members and local business leaders on the Olympic Peninsula to ensure this legislation works for the community.
For state news headlines click here
Source: http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=E2F2CDE4-32D1-4639-8299-199F0C9D3070
(WASHINGTON, D.C.)—Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) re-introduced the Wild Olympics Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to protect environmentally sensitive parts of the Olympic Peninsula, support outdoor recreation opportunities, and preserve and grow jobs on the Olympic Peninsula.
“It is critical that we keep fighting to ensure these pristine areas of the Olympic Peninsula are preserved for generations to come,” said Senator Murray. “As someone who enjoys hiking and fishing in Washington state, I am thrilled to work with Congressman Kilmer and the local community to keep up the momentum and preserve some of Washington state’s most prized wild spaces.”
“As someone who grew up in Port Angeles, I’ve always said that we don’t have to choose between economic growth and environmental protection,” said Representative Kilmer. “I’m proud to continue fighting for a bill that is part of a practical, balanced strategy to protect our natural beauty while attracting businesses to stay, grow, and invest in our future. I’m grateful for the partnership of Senator Murray and folks throughout our region who helped develop this proposal.”
The Wild Olympics Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Act would designate 126,554 acres of existing federal land as wilderness in the Olympic National Forest and designate 464 river miles across 19 rivers and major tributaries on the Olympic Peninsula as Wild and Scenic Rivers. The wilderness designation permanently protects old growth and ancient forest habitat throughout the region. The Wild and Scenic Rivers designation would add federal recognition to the outstanding river systems on the Peninsula, protecting them as a source of clean drinking water and helping to keep Puget Sound clean for generations to come. This designation does not restrict private property rights.
Senator Murray and Representative Kilmer have spent a significant amount of time engaging with community members and local business leaders on the Olympic Peninsula to ensure this legislation works for the community.
For state news headlines click here
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
DEMOCRATS ACTED LIKE HIGH SCHOOL BRATS DURING SPEECH
Remarks by President Trump in Joint Address to Congress
Source: https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/28/remarks-president-trump-joint-address-congress
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Vice President, members of Congress, the First Lady of the United States -- and citizens of America:
Tonight, as we mark the conclusion of our celebration of Black History Month, we are reminded of our nation's path towards civil rights and the work that still remains to be done. (Applause.) Recent threats targeting Jewish community centers and vandalism of Jewish cemeteries, as well as last week's shooting in Kansas City, remind us that while we may be a nation divided on policies, we are a country that stands united in condemning hate and evil in all of its very ugly forms.
Each American generation passes the torch of truth, liberty and justice in an unbroken chain all the way down to the present. That torch is now in our hands. And we will use it to light up the world. I am here tonight to deliver a message of unity and strength, and it is a message deeply delivered from my heart. A new chapter of American Greatness is now beginning. A new national pride is sweeping across our nation. And a new surge of optimism is placing impossible dreams firmly within our grasp.
What we are witnessing today is the renewal of the American spirit. Our allies will find that America is once again ready to lead. All the nations of the world -- friend or foe -- will find that America is strong, America is proud, and America is free.
Watch full speech on you tube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJuvNMLBcQk
Related stories:
Trump gives GOP leaders rallying cry, roadmap for change
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump gave Republican congressional leaders a rallying cry and even a roadmap as they try to push through a sweeping and divisive agenda on health care, taxes and more.
http://bigstory.ap.org/article/c5d20028efc04fe095333e11f9375732/trump-speech-may-help-settle-gop-legislative-disputes
Analysis: A softer Trump wins praise. But will it last?
WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump finally gave Republicans what they've spent months begging him to deliver: a pivot to presidential behavior.
http://bigstory.ap.org/article/88efab09fc7b4f6ba9e4b915bc2f98fb/analysis-trump-pivot-pleases-gop-will-it-last
Presidential Trump says 'join forces' for new greatness
WASHINGTON (AP) — Heralding a "new chapter of American greatness," President Donald Trump issued a broad call for overhauling the nation's health care system and significantly boosting military spending Tuesday night, swapping his trademark pugnaciousness and personal insults for a more restrained tone as he addressed Congress for the first time.
http://bigstory.ap.org/article/5f1f482734ab4d098f461bd1ed2b8df8/trump-looks-refocus-his-presidency-address-congress
In speech, Trump tries to turn from divisive to deal-maker (REU)
U.S. President Donald Trump showed a different side in his first address to Congress. This Trump was part deal-maker, part salesman, asking for unity and trying to repackage his populist message in more palatable terms.
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-tone-analysis-idUSKBN1683EC
Trump to lift federal coal ban, other green rules, next week: White House (REU)
U.S. President Donald Trump is likely to sign an executive order next week that lifts a ban on new federal coal mining leases and starts the process of killing other Obama-era initiatives to combat global climate change, a White House official said.
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-energy-idUSKBN168592
Editorial Comment: One only need to watch the video of the speech to catch on how some members of congress was acting like.
"And in fact it was the exact opposite of what they had heard. Yeah, Trump alluded to it’s time to compromise. The real line of the night to me — and it’s hard to pick just one. But when he looked at these Democrats sitting on their hands and told them that these trivial, trivial disagreements… It’s time to move past this and start thinking big. By the way, as an aside, I have to tell you, folks, as I was watching the speech last night — and I really mean this." ---Rush Limbaugh radio show
https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2017/03/01/democrats-heard-donald-trump-for-the-first-time-last-night/
Trump's Triumph Is Demos' Disaster
The shell-shocked expressions on Democrat faces were priceless.---- Patriot Post
When a political novice who has never held an elected office at any level arrives in the swamp as the newly elected president of the United States, there is going to be an adjustment period. While that adjustment period is certainly not over, the speech Donald Trump delivered to Congress Tuesday night outlining his vision for a unified nation and his agenda to “make America great” was outstanding.
https://patriotpost.us/alexander/47732
For more national and advocacy headlines click here
NEWS NOTEBOOK
DNC chair: Trump's speech was 'Bannon on steroids with a smile'
New Democratic National Committee (DNC) chairman Tom Perez needled President Trump over his speech to Congress, saying the address was a veiled version of the views held by Trump's controversial chief strategist and former Breitbart executive Stephen Bannon.---The Hill
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/dnc-chair-trumps-speech-was-bannon-on-steroids-with-a-smile/ar-AAnERuU
Source: https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/28/remarks-president-trump-joint-address-congress
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Vice President, members of Congress, the First Lady of the United States -- and citizens of America:
Tonight, as we mark the conclusion of our celebration of Black History Month, we are reminded of our nation's path towards civil rights and the work that still remains to be done. (Applause.) Recent threats targeting Jewish community centers and vandalism of Jewish cemeteries, as well as last week's shooting in Kansas City, remind us that while we may be a nation divided on policies, we are a country that stands united in condemning hate and evil in all of its very ugly forms.
Each American generation passes the torch of truth, liberty and justice in an unbroken chain all the way down to the present. That torch is now in our hands. And we will use it to light up the world. I am here tonight to deliver a message of unity and strength, and it is a message deeply delivered from my heart. A new chapter of American Greatness is now beginning. A new national pride is sweeping across our nation. And a new surge of optimism is placing impossible dreams firmly within our grasp.
What we are witnessing today is the renewal of the American spirit. Our allies will find that America is once again ready to lead. All the nations of the world -- friend or foe -- will find that America is strong, America is proud, and America is free.
Watch full speech on you tube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJuvNMLBcQk
Related stories:
Trump gives GOP leaders rallying cry, roadmap for change
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump gave Republican congressional leaders a rallying cry and even a roadmap as they try to push through a sweeping and divisive agenda on health care, taxes and more.
http://bigstory.ap.org/article/c5d20028efc04fe095333e11f9375732/trump-speech-may-help-settle-gop-legislative-disputes
Analysis: A softer Trump wins praise. But will it last?
WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump finally gave Republicans what they've spent months begging him to deliver: a pivot to presidential behavior.
http://bigstory.ap.org/article/88efab09fc7b4f6ba9e4b915bc2f98fb/analysis-trump-pivot-pleases-gop-will-it-last
Presidential Trump says 'join forces' for new greatness
WASHINGTON (AP) — Heralding a "new chapter of American greatness," President Donald Trump issued a broad call for overhauling the nation's health care system and significantly boosting military spending Tuesday night, swapping his trademark pugnaciousness and personal insults for a more restrained tone as he addressed Congress for the first time.
http://bigstory.ap.org/article/5f1f482734ab4d098f461bd1ed2b8df8/trump-looks-refocus-his-presidency-address-congress
In speech, Trump tries to turn from divisive to deal-maker (REU)
U.S. President Donald Trump showed a different side in his first address to Congress. This Trump was part deal-maker, part salesman, asking for unity and trying to repackage his populist message in more palatable terms.
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-tone-analysis-idUSKBN1683EC
Trump to lift federal coal ban, other green rules, next week: White House (REU)
U.S. President Donald Trump is likely to sign an executive order next week that lifts a ban on new federal coal mining leases and starts the process of killing other Obama-era initiatives to combat global climate change, a White House official said.
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-energy-idUSKBN168592
Editorial Comment: One only need to watch the video of the speech to catch on how some members of congress was acting like.
"And in fact it was the exact opposite of what they had heard. Yeah, Trump alluded to it’s time to compromise. The real line of the night to me — and it’s hard to pick just one. But when he looked at these Democrats sitting on their hands and told them that these trivial, trivial disagreements… It’s time to move past this and start thinking big. By the way, as an aside, I have to tell you, folks, as I was watching the speech last night — and I really mean this." ---Rush Limbaugh radio show
https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2017/03/01/democrats-heard-donald-trump-for-the-first-time-last-night/
Trump's Triumph Is Demos' Disaster
The shell-shocked expressions on Democrat faces were priceless.---- Patriot Post
When a political novice who has never held an elected office at any level arrives in the swamp as the newly elected president of the United States, there is going to be an adjustment period. While that adjustment period is certainly not over, the speech Donald Trump delivered to Congress Tuesday night outlining his vision for a unified nation and his agenda to “make America great” was outstanding.
https://patriotpost.us/alexander/47732
For more national and advocacy headlines click here
NEWS NOTEBOOK
DNC chair: Trump's speech was 'Bannon on steroids with a smile'
New Democratic National Committee (DNC) chairman Tom Perez needled President Trump over his speech to Congress, saying the address was a veiled version of the views held by Trump's controversial chief strategist and former Breitbart executive Stephen Bannon.---The Hill
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/dnc-chair-trumps-speech-was-bannon-on-steroids-with-a-smile/ar-AAnERuU
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Vowing to ‘Defend the Defenders’, Secretary-General Urges End of Double Standards in Tackling Abuse, Bias, Rising Intolerance Worldwide
Source: http://www.un.org/press/en/2017/sgsm18456.doc.htm
Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the Human Rights Council, in Geneva today:
It is a profound honour to address the Human Rights Council. For 10 years, you may have known me as the “other” High Commissioner, just down the road. And so it is a great privilege to be with you for the first time in my capacity as Secretary-General. I am here in a spirit of gratitude. And I am here at a time of urgency.
Disregard for human rights is a disease, and it is a disease that is spreading — north, south, east and west. The Human Rights Council must be part of the cure. You can be pivotal for prevention, sounding early warnings of crises. Commissions of Inquiry and fact-finding missions respond to serious allegations of human rights violations around the world. The scrutiny and recommendations of the Council’s independent experts shed light, enhance protection and guide policy. The Council’s growing engagement with civil society strengthens so much of your work and is especially vital at a time when civil society space is shrinking in so many places. And through the Universal Periodic Review, every country in the world has had its human rights record thoroughly examined.
Despite differences among members, this Council is based on a shared understanding: upholding the rights of all people and in the interest of all States. And that truth is integral to every aspect of the work of the United Nations. Our three pillars of peace, development and human rights are inseparable and they are mutually reinforcing. Human rights – civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights - must never be seen as a luxury or “saved for later”, after peace and development have been achieved.
Human rights are an intrinsic part of all that we do and all that we are. And so we must speak up for human rights in an impartial way without double standards. We must invest in human rights and recognize human rights as values and goals unto themselves, not allowing them to be instrumentalized as a political tool. And indeed, the integrity and credibility of this Council will only be enhanced by proceeding in a manner that avoids unbalanced treatment of Member States.
I say all of these things as the Secretary-General of the United Nations. But, my support for human rights goes deeper. It’s personal. I grew up under the Salazar dictatorship in Portugal. I did not know democracy until I was 24 years old. I came of age seeing how the denial of not just civil and political rights, but also social, cultural and economic rights, corroded every aspect of society. It condemned many to a life of poverty. It triggered mass migration. Portuguese couldn’t vote through the ballot box, so many voted with their feet.
And I saw the dictatorship oppressing not only its own citizens, but also the people of the African colonies, including by waging wars for 13 long and bloody years. And my passion for defending human rights has sprung both from the grass roots as a young man and later from the top as Prime Minister leading a country in pursuit of human rights and dignity for all its citizens. And it only grew stronger serving as High Commissioner for Refugees and witnessing the terrible consequences of ignoring — or blatantly trampling on — people’s fundamental rights and dignity.
Now, as Secretary-General, I see every day how the future of our world and the future of human rights go hand-in-hand. Our world is becoming more dangerous, less predictable, more chaotic. New conflicts are multiplying. Old ones never die. And both are more and more interconnected with the threat of global terrorism and violent extremism.
Again and again, we see violations of human rights as early and leading indicators of crisis. Again and again, we have seen human rights abuses play into the hands of extremists. At the same time, violations of economic rights, such as massive inequalities within and between States, are a growing source of social unrest.
If we are to truly address these challenges, we must make prevention our priority, tackle root causes of conflict and react earlier and more effectively in addressing human rights concerns. That is the lesson of so many conflicts and the driving force behind the Human Rights Up Front initiative. We know that just as denial of human rights is part of the problem, the active promotion of human rights is part of the solution. And that means supporting Member States in building capacity, strengthening States, institutions and civil society.
Perhaps the best prevention tool we have is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the treaties that derive from it. The rights set out in it identify many of the root causes of conflict, but equally they provide real world solutions through real change on the ground.
I look to the Human Rights Council to be fully engaged and help affect the change on the range of issues that requires your attention in our troubled and turbulent world. They include deliberate and systematic violations of international humanitarian law in a growing number of conflicts and which this Council has done much to expose.
We are increasingly seeing the perverse phenomenon of populism and extremism feeding off each other in a frenzy of growing racism, xenophobia, anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim hatred and other forms of intolerance. Minorities, indigenous communities and others face discriminations and abuse across the world. And the same applies to members of the LGBTI [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons] community. The rights of refugees and migrants are under attack. Human trafficking is on the rise. And with so many people escaping war, the international community must not escape its responsibilities.
We must do our utmost to re-establish the integrity of the international refugee protection regime. Our challenge here is not really about “sharing the burden”. It is about “sharing the responsibility”. We have a collective responsibility embedded in the values we share and the Charter that defines us.
By the same measure, we must forcefully resist calls to reinstate torture. Torture is cowardly, produces no usable information and shames every country that inflicts it. And similarly, let us work together to turn back efforts to reinstate capital punishment. I say this as a citizen of a country that abolished the death penalty 150 years ago.
We simply cannot achieve any of our goals without the full participation of women and girls. Within the United Nations, I am committed to establish a clear road map with benchmarks to achieve gender parity across the system. I will soon propose to the General Assembly ambitious new steps to help end sexual exploitation and abuse committed under the United Nations flag.
We must do far more around the world. Hard fought gains on women’s rights are being chipped away, whether it is through a pushback on women’s reproductive rights or turning a blind eye to domestic violence or violently enforcing traditional gender roles. Let us say loud and clear: women’s rights are human rights.
As we do so, I also make a special appeal for the rights of children. Millions of children around the world are denied their rights. And children are the main victims of war and crises, the effects of which often last a lifetime. More than half of the world’s refugees are children, perhaps the most defenceless people on Earth. Let us act to protect children of all ages, ensure they know their rights, and can live and breathe those rights every day and everywhere.
Let us also recognize that we must do more to ensure equal attention to economic, social and cultural rights. The corpus of human rights is indivisible and interdependent. We cannot pick and choose, emphasizing some and ignoring others. The 2030 Agenda [for Sustainable Development] provides an ideal platform to demonstrate our commitment to all human rights. As the High Commissioner has often pointed out, the right to development is at the core of the 2030 Agenda. The right to quality education, housing, food, water, equal access to employment — these and other economic and social rights — can and must be realized.
As we work to promote all human rights, I want to express a final word of appreciation and admiration to those on the front lines. To human rights defenders, I say: thank you for your courage. The United Nations is on your side. And I am on your side. I remind Member States of their responsibility to ensure that human rights defenders can operate without fear of intimidation. Human rights defenders must be able to freely participate in the Council and engage more broadly with the United Nations without fear of reprisal. This is critical to our work and to the credibility of Member States.
Journalists are an essential part of the checks and balances of any society. They, too, must be guaranteed full protection in law and practice to do their vital work independently and without interference.
The struggle for human rights is at the heart a struggle to expand the horizons of the possible, to bring out the best of our selves and to unleash the best of our societies. Human rights inspire. Human rights transform. Human rights drive progress and change the course of history.
I am determined to raise the profile of human rights and to speak out whenever necessary. And I will do my utmost to defend the defenders. We will build a safer and more stable world for our children as we recognize the interconnections between peace, development and human rights. We will advance security by advancing dignity, justice, equality and the rule of law. I thank the Human Rights Council for working to point the way. Thank you very much.
For more world news end events click here
News NOTEBOOK
Times Colonist: Greater Victoria school district puts class trips to U.S. on hold
Board wants clarity on travel restrictions; Sooke trustees to discuss the issue tonight
“Until more certainty and clarity is established regarding travel restrictions, no future trips to the United States will be planned,” said board spokeswoman Katie Hamilton.
http://www.timescolonist.com/news/local/greater-victoria-school-district-puts-class-trips-to-u-s-on-hold-1.10585975
Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the Human Rights Council, in Geneva today:
It is a profound honour to address the Human Rights Council. For 10 years, you may have known me as the “other” High Commissioner, just down the road. And so it is a great privilege to be with you for the first time in my capacity as Secretary-General. I am here in a spirit of gratitude. And I am here at a time of urgency.
Disregard for human rights is a disease, and it is a disease that is spreading — north, south, east and west. The Human Rights Council must be part of the cure. You can be pivotal for prevention, sounding early warnings of crises. Commissions of Inquiry and fact-finding missions respond to serious allegations of human rights violations around the world. The scrutiny and recommendations of the Council’s independent experts shed light, enhance protection and guide policy. The Council’s growing engagement with civil society strengthens so much of your work and is especially vital at a time when civil society space is shrinking in so many places. And through the Universal Periodic Review, every country in the world has had its human rights record thoroughly examined.
Despite differences among members, this Council is based on a shared understanding: upholding the rights of all people and in the interest of all States. And that truth is integral to every aspect of the work of the United Nations. Our three pillars of peace, development and human rights are inseparable and they are mutually reinforcing. Human rights – civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights - must never be seen as a luxury or “saved for later”, after peace and development have been achieved.
Human rights are an intrinsic part of all that we do and all that we are. And so we must speak up for human rights in an impartial way without double standards. We must invest in human rights and recognize human rights as values and goals unto themselves, not allowing them to be instrumentalized as a political tool. And indeed, the integrity and credibility of this Council will only be enhanced by proceeding in a manner that avoids unbalanced treatment of Member States.
I say all of these things as the Secretary-General of the United Nations. But, my support for human rights goes deeper. It’s personal. I grew up under the Salazar dictatorship in Portugal. I did not know democracy until I was 24 years old. I came of age seeing how the denial of not just civil and political rights, but also social, cultural and economic rights, corroded every aspect of society. It condemned many to a life of poverty. It triggered mass migration. Portuguese couldn’t vote through the ballot box, so many voted with their feet.
And I saw the dictatorship oppressing not only its own citizens, but also the people of the African colonies, including by waging wars for 13 long and bloody years. And my passion for defending human rights has sprung both from the grass roots as a young man and later from the top as Prime Minister leading a country in pursuit of human rights and dignity for all its citizens. And it only grew stronger serving as High Commissioner for Refugees and witnessing the terrible consequences of ignoring — or blatantly trampling on — people’s fundamental rights and dignity.
Now, as Secretary-General, I see every day how the future of our world and the future of human rights go hand-in-hand. Our world is becoming more dangerous, less predictable, more chaotic. New conflicts are multiplying. Old ones never die. And both are more and more interconnected with the threat of global terrorism and violent extremism.
Again and again, we see violations of human rights as early and leading indicators of crisis. Again and again, we have seen human rights abuses play into the hands of extremists. At the same time, violations of economic rights, such as massive inequalities within and between States, are a growing source of social unrest.
If we are to truly address these challenges, we must make prevention our priority, tackle root causes of conflict and react earlier and more effectively in addressing human rights concerns. That is the lesson of so many conflicts and the driving force behind the Human Rights Up Front initiative. We know that just as denial of human rights is part of the problem, the active promotion of human rights is part of the solution. And that means supporting Member States in building capacity, strengthening States, institutions and civil society.
Perhaps the best prevention tool we have is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the treaties that derive from it. The rights set out in it identify many of the root causes of conflict, but equally they provide real world solutions through real change on the ground.
I look to the Human Rights Council to be fully engaged and help affect the change on the range of issues that requires your attention in our troubled and turbulent world. They include deliberate and systematic violations of international humanitarian law in a growing number of conflicts and which this Council has done much to expose.
We are increasingly seeing the perverse phenomenon of populism and extremism feeding off each other in a frenzy of growing racism, xenophobia, anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim hatred and other forms of intolerance. Minorities, indigenous communities and others face discriminations and abuse across the world. And the same applies to members of the LGBTI [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons] community. The rights of refugees and migrants are under attack. Human trafficking is on the rise. And with so many people escaping war, the international community must not escape its responsibilities.
We must do our utmost to re-establish the integrity of the international refugee protection regime. Our challenge here is not really about “sharing the burden”. It is about “sharing the responsibility”. We have a collective responsibility embedded in the values we share and the Charter that defines us.
By the same measure, we must forcefully resist calls to reinstate torture. Torture is cowardly, produces no usable information and shames every country that inflicts it. And similarly, let us work together to turn back efforts to reinstate capital punishment. I say this as a citizen of a country that abolished the death penalty 150 years ago.
We simply cannot achieve any of our goals without the full participation of women and girls. Within the United Nations, I am committed to establish a clear road map with benchmarks to achieve gender parity across the system. I will soon propose to the General Assembly ambitious new steps to help end sexual exploitation and abuse committed under the United Nations flag.
We must do far more around the world. Hard fought gains on women’s rights are being chipped away, whether it is through a pushback on women’s reproductive rights or turning a blind eye to domestic violence or violently enforcing traditional gender roles. Let us say loud and clear: women’s rights are human rights.
As we do so, I also make a special appeal for the rights of children. Millions of children around the world are denied their rights. And children are the main victims of war and crises, the effects of which often last a lifetime. More than half of the world’s refugees are children, perhaps the most defenceless people on Earth. Let us act to protect children of all ages, ensure they know their rights, and can live and breathe those rights every day and everywhere.
Let us also recognize that we must do more to ensure equal attention to economic, social and cultural rights. The corpus of human rights is indivisible and interdependent. We cannot pick and choose, emphasizing some and ignoring others. The 2030 Agenda [for Sustainable Development] provides an ideal platform to demonstrate our commitment to all human rights. As the High Commissioner has often pointed out, the right to development is at the core of the 2030 Agenda. The right to quality education, housing, food, water, equal access to employment — these and other economic and social rights — can and must be realized.
As we work to promote all human rights, I want to express a final word of appreciation and admiration to those on the front lines. To human rights defenders, I say: thank you for your courage. The United Nations is on your side. And I am on your side. I remind Member States of their responsibility to ensure that human rights defenders can operate without fear of intimidation. Human rights defenders must be able to freely participate in the Council and engage more broadly with the United Nations without fear of reprisal. This is critical to our work and to the credibility of Member States.
Journalists are an essential part of the checks and balances of any society. They, too, must be guaranteed full protection in law and practice to do their vital work independently and without interference.
The struggle for human rights is at the heart a struggle to expand the horizons of the possible, to bring out the best of our selves and to unleash the best of our societies. Human rights inspire. Human rights transform. Human rights drive progress and change the course of history.
I am determined to raise the profile of human rights and to speak out whenever necessary. And I will do my utmost to defend the defenders. We will build a safer and more stable world for our children as we recognize the interconnections between peace, development and human rights. We will advance security by advancing dignity, justice, equality and the rule of law. I thank the Human Rights Council for working to point the way. Thank you very much.
For more world news end events click here
News NOTEBOOK
Times Colonist: Greater Victoria school district puts class trips to U.S. on hold
Board wants clarity on travel restrictions; Sooke trustees to discuss the issue tonight
“Until more certainty and clarity is established regarding travel restrictions, no future trips to the United States will be planned,” said board spokeswoman Katie Hamilton.
http://www.timescolonist.com/news/local/greater-victoria-school-district-puts-class-trips-to-u-s-on-hold-1.10585975
Monday, February 27, 2017
US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: Regulatory Relief Is on the Way
After a relentless, eight-year regulatory onslaught that loaded unprecedented burdens on businesses and the economy, relief is finally on the way. The president and leaders in Congress have quickly made good on campaign pledges to rein in the regulatory state.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/regulatory-relief-the-way
In other US Chamber news...
Rule 1 for Trade Negotiators: No 'Own Goals'
Some trade proposals now being shouted from the sidelines—including some from progressives already in staunch opposition to the administration’s positions on a host of issues—certainly fit this description.
The Trump Administration should recognize these recommendations for the self-destructive proposals they are as officials consider negotiating new bilateral trade agreements and updating older agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/rule-1-trade-negotiators-no-own-goals
Quality Over Quantity: We Need Digital Privacy Policies That Drive Economic Growth
As technology plays an increasing role in our daily lives, policymakers are trying to better understand how to respond to its role as both an economic driver and a disruptor. In many countries, the kneejerk response to our changing technological environment has been to regulate. But more often than not, these policies become barriers that restrict the benefits of the digital economy instead of driving growth.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/quality-over-quantity-we-need-digital-privacy-policies-drive-economic-growth
U.S. Chamber and MetLife Team Up to Support and Celebrate America’s Small Businesses
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and MetLife (NYSE: MET) today announced a new multiyear collaboration to elevate the voice of America’s small business owners and highlight the important role they play in the nation’s economy.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/us-chamber-and-metlife-team-support-and-celebrate-america-s-small-businesses
A Model Trade Agreement? Congress Already Provided One
In light of President Trump’s pledge to pursue expanded trade that is both free and fair, it’s worth revisiting the question of how the federal government should pursue enforceable new trade agreements to advance these goals.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/model-trade-agreement-congress-already-provided-one
For more business and finance news headlines click here...
http://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/mondays-business-and-finance-report.html
News Notebook
Puget Sound Business Journal: Historic luxury yacht Olympus leaving Seattle after almost 70 years, sailing for New York
The classic motor yacht M.V. Olympus which has been the Pacific Northwest since 1942 has just been sold for an undisclosed price and will head out of Lake Union through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard for the last time on Feb. 26.
http://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2017/02/21/historic-luxury-yacht-olympus-leaving-seattle.html
PT. LEADER: Local banks dominate: National banks at bottom of Jefferson County market share report
For the first time in 20 years, the top three banks with the most market share of depositors in Jefferson County can be defined as local, Washington-based banks, not national institutions.
http://www.ptleader.com/news/local-banks-dominate-national-banks-at-bottom-of-jefferson-county/article_9b05691a-f88c-11e6-a089-abb2f29880f0.html
Sequim Gazette: Hiring event planned in March; boot camp readies job seekers
http://www.sequimgazette.com/business/hiring-event-planned-in-march-boot-camp-readies-job-seekers/
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/regulatory-relief-the-way
In other US Chamber news...
Rule 1 for Trade Negotiators: No 'Own Goals'
Some trade proposals now being shouted from the sidelines—including some from progressives already in staunch opposition to the administration’s positions on a host of issues—certainly fit this description.
The Trump Administration should recognize these recommendations for the self-destructive proposals they are as officials consider negotiating new bilateral trade agreements and updating older agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/rule-1-trade-negotiators-no-own-goals
Quality Over Quantity: We Need Digital Privacy Policies That Drive Economic Growth
As technology plays an increasing role in our daily lives, policymakers are trying to better understand how to respond to its role as both an economic driver and a disruptor. In many countries, the kneejerk response to our changing technological environment has been to regulate. But more often than not, these policies become barriers that restrict the benefits of the digital economy instead of driving growth.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/quality-over-quantity-we-need-digital-privacy-policies-drive-economic-growth
U.S. Chamber and MetLife Team Up to Support and Celebrate America’s Small Businesses
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and MetLife (NYSE: MET) today announced a new multiyear collaboration to elevate the voice of America’s small business owners and highlight the important role they play in the nation’s economy.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/us-chamber-and-metlife-team-support-and-celebrate-america-s-small-businesses
A Model Trade Agreement? Congress Already Provided One
In light of President Trump’s pledge to pursue expanded trade that is both free and fair, it’s worth revisiting the question of how the federal government should pursue enforceable new trade agreements to advance these goals.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/model-trade-agreement-congress-already-provided-one
For more business and finance news headlines click here...
http://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/mondays-business-and-finance-report.html
News Notebook
Puget Sound Business Journal: Historic luxury yacht Olympus leaving Seattle after almost 70 years, sailing for New York
The classic motor yacht M.V. Olympus which has been the Pacific Northwest since 1942 has just been sold for an undisclosed price and will head out of Lake Union through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard for the last time on Feb. 26.
http://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2017/02/21/historic-luxury-yacht-olympus-leaving-seattle.html
PT. LEADER: Local banks dominate: National banks at bottom of Jefferson County market share report
For the first time in 20 years, the top three banks with the most market share of depositors in Jefferson County can be defined as local, Washington-based banks, not national institutions.
http://www.ptleader.com/news/local-banks-dominate-national-banks-at-bottom-of-jefferson-county/article_9b05691a-f88c-11e6-a089-abb2f29880f0.html
Sequim Gazette: Hiring event planned in March; boot camp readies job seekers
http://www.sequimgazette.com/business/hiring-event-planned-in-march-boot-camp-readies-job-seekers/
Saturday, February 25, 2017
Washington state delegation bound for Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain
Department of Commerce hosts 12 innovative companies, showcases state’s massive information and communications technology sector at world’s premier mobile tech conference, Feb. 27 – March 2
With more than 90,000 software developers and 14,000 companies, Washington State is the epicenter for innovation in cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT), as well as gaming, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. Executives from 12 businesses in the state’s massive information and communications technology (ICT) sector join the Department of Commerce next week for Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, the world’s largest conference for the mobile tech industry, attended by over 100,000 people from 206 countries last year.
The Choose Washington pavilion, located in App Planet, Hall 8.1, B58, features a mix of startups and established businesses, including Syntonic, a mobile platform services company whose CEO and co-founder, Dr. Gary Greenbaum, will give a keynote speech highlighting the emergence of new consumer mobile access models at a Mobile Ecosystem Forum Feb. 28. Other exhibitors featured in the Choose Washington pavilion are: Apptentive, Buddy®, Glympse®, Guppy Games|Media, iBugle, Meylah Corporation, Qikspace, Sirqul™, TouchBase, Tupl, UpTop™ and the Economic Development Council of Seattle-King County. Supporting the trip are the Washington Technology Industry Association and tech news site GeekWire.
“Washington is famously a center for innovation in digital media and mobile technology development,” said Brian Bonlender, state Commerce Director. “Today, an estimated 127 new things are connected to the internet every second, bringing exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs and tech workers everywhere. This industry is strengthening communities well beyond the Puget Sound tech corridor. The next wave of transformative technologies will create new businesses and jobs throughout the state.”
“Buddy Platform has been a proud partner in the Choose Washington Pavilion at Mobile World Congress every year since 2012. The support we get from the Washington State Department of Commerce, like the export voucher program, is very helpful,” said David McLauchlan, CEO of Buddy Platform. “From business matchmaking services to managing show logistics, Commerce’s expertise and the resources they offer to the delegates are critical for allowing us to focus on our business goals and maximize ROI.”
“This is the second time Tupl has participated in Mobile World Congress – the largest event of the year – as part of the Washington State pavilion,” said Petri Hautakangas, CEO of Tupl Inc. “With the incredible support provided by the Department of Commerce team, last year we tracked up over 20 high-value meetings that allowed us to accelerate the growth of our business. We are confident that MWC 2017 will be no different!”
The Department of Commerce team organizes business matchmaking introductions for their exhibitor companies to meet with mobile carriers, hardware manufacturers, enterprise mobility strategists and marketers to negotiate licensing agreements and grow global awareness of their unique technologies and services. Members of Commerce delegations have reported over $13.5 million in new sales from participation in this event over the last five years.
Many small and medium-sized tech companies would not be able to attend international trade shows of this caliber without export vouchers provided by Commerce. Made possible through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s State Trade Expansion Promotion (STEP) program, these reimbursement-style grants will help offset the cost of international business development for 10 of this year’s 12 delegate companies.
source: http://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/washington-state-delegation-bound-mobile-world-congress-barcelona-spain/
For meetings, and commentaries click here
With more than 90,000 software developers and 14,000 companies, Washington State is the epicenter for innovation in cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT), as well as gaming, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. Executives from 12 businesses in the state’s massive information and communications technology (ICT) sector join the Department of Commerce next week for Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, the world’s largest conference for the mobile tech industry, attended by over 100,000 people from 206 countries last year.
The Choose Washington pavilion, located in App Planet, Hall 8.1, B58, features a mix of startups and established businesses, including Syntonic, a mobile platform services company whose CEO and co-founder, Dr. Gary Greenbaum, will give a keynote speech highlighting the emergence of new consumer mobile access models at a Mobile Ecosystem Forum Feb. 28. Other exhibitors featured in the Choose Washington pavilion are: Apptentive, Buddy®, Glympse®, Guppy Games|Media, iBugle, Meylah Corporation, Qikspace, Sirqul™, TouchBase, Tupl, UpTop™ and the Economic Development Council of Seattle-King County. Supporting the trip are the Washington Technology Industry Association and tech news site GeekWire.
“Washington is famously a center for innovation in digital media and mobile technology development,” said Brian Bonlender, state Commerce Director. “Today, an estimated 127 new things are connected to the internet every second, bringing exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs and tech workers everywhere. This industry is strengthening communities well beyond the Puget Sound tech corridor. The next wave of transformative technologies will create new businesses and jobs throughout the state.”
“Buddy Platform has been a proud partner in the Choose Washington Pavilion at Mobile World Congress every year since 2012. The support we get from the Washington State Department of Commerce, like the export voucher program, is very helpful,” said David McLauchlan, CEO of Buddy Platform. “From business matchmaking services to managing show logistics, Commerce’s expertise and the resources they offer to the delegates are critical for allowing us to focus on our business goals and maximize ROI.”
“This is the second time Tupl has participated in Mobile World Congress – the largest event of the year – as part of the Washington State pavilion,” said Petri Hautakangas, CEO of Tupl Inc. “With the incredible support provided by the Department of Commerce team, last year we tracked up over 20 high-value meetings that allowed us to accelerate the growth of our business. We are confident that MWC 2017 will be no different!”
The Department of Commerce team organizes business matchmaking introductions for their exhibitor companies to meet with mobile carriers, hardware manufacturers, enterprise mobility strategists and marketers to negotiate licensing agreements and grow global awareness of their unique technologies and services. Members of Commerce delegations have reported over $13.5 million in new sales from participation in this event over the last five years.
Many small and medium-sized tech companies would not be able to attend international trade shows of this caliber without export vouchers provided by Commerce. Made possible through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s State Trade Expansion Promotion (STEP) program, these reimbursement-style grants will help offset the cost of international business development for 10 of this year’s 12 delegate companies.
source: http://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/washington-state-delegation-bound-mobile-world-congress-barcelona-spain/
For meetings, and commentaries click here
Friday, February 24, 2017
Senator Murray Stands with Workers and Families to Call Out President Trump for Breaking His Campaign Promise to Put American Workers First
(Seattle, WA) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) toured a job-training program in downtown Seattle, and joined local workers and families to speak out against President Trump’s Rigged Cabinet, so far filled with billionaires, millionaires and Wall Street executives who have demonstrated little interest in putting working families first. Sen. Murray said that even though there was great news for the American people last week when his nominee for Secretary of Labor Andrew Puzder dropped out amid public pressure, the same energy is needed to continue holding the Administration accountable to the people it represents. She emphasized how critical it is to make everyone’s voice heard to fight back against President Trump’s hurtful agenda.
“Republicans may control Congress, but the American people have a voice and I urge everyone to use it. That is how we can fight back against this President’s harmful agenda,” said Senator Murray. “That is my message to the people of Washington state. Make your voice heard—whether that means calling, writing, or marching in the streets. And I will lift your voice up in the U.S. Senate.”
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ID=145A2A59-BDC7-470C-8306-4FBA33C7B06A
02.17.17
WA Dems Concerned about Detention of DREAMer, Denounce ICE Raids
Lawmakers also call for clarification of administration’s practices
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA), joined by Reps. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Adam Smith (WA-09), Denny Heck (WA-10), Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Rick Larsen (WA-02), and Suzan DelBene (WA-01), sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly to express concern that enforcement priorities are now so broad that Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients, such as Daniel Ramirez Medina, may be caught up in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids.
Under the Executive Order titled “Enhancing Public Safety in the Interior of the United States,” Mr. Ramirez should not have been a priority for detention by ICE. The letter seeks clarification of the changes to ICE’s enforcement priorities and the practices of ICE agents at the doors and in the homes of immigrants.
“We expect due process and facts to guide government agency’s actions,” the members of Congress wrote. “But what we have seen from this administration is repeated falsehoods about immigrants and refugees, and suspicion and allegations rule the day. This is unacceptable, and we demand better.”
That America may break its promise to DACA recipients, who came out of the shadows to sign up for the program with the understanding that they would not be targeted for detention and deportation if they followed the law, is of particular concern to the members of Congress. Further, the Senators and Representatives note that immigration raids do not succeed in creating safe communities.
“In nearly all circumstances, engaging in immigration raids to detain people is unnecessary and damaging to our communities,” wrote the members of Congress.
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wa-dems-concerned-about-detention-of-dreamer-denounce-ice-raids
News Notebook: No, I'm Not a Muslim Too!---Truth for the World
In hopes to garner sympathy from those in the world, there are many so-called “Christians” carrying signs and shouting “I’m a Muslim too.” I want to start by explaining that if you are a Muslim, then you are not a Christian. If you are a Christian, then you are not a Muslim! There's simply no two ways about it.
https://truthfortheworld.org/blog/2017/02/no,-im-not-a-muslim-too!?platform=hootsuite
Editorial Note: This is the latest chic thing to do in some circles to show empathy toward a religion that is bent on world dominance through intimidation even force, on those who want no part of.
I agree it's outright denying one's faith in Christ, in order to be chic, in order to be part of the crowd is stupid to say the least. It's the short of thing you find in highschool, a bunch of sheep following a shepard down a wrong path because it just feels good to do so. I was never part of the crowd in highschool, never joined the bandwagon to "fit in", so I won't start now. My faith is in Christ Jesus, not in a pretender.
click here for local headlines making news....
“Republicans may control Congress, but the American people have a voice and I urge everyone to use it. That is how we can fight back against this President’s harmful agenda,” said Senator Murray. “That is my message to the people of Washington state. Make your voice heard—whether that means calling, writing, or marching in the streets. And I will lift your voice up in the U.S. Senate.”
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ID=145A2A59-BDC7-470C-8306-4FBA33C7B06A
02.17.17
WA Dems Concerned about Detention of DREAMer, Denounce ICE Raids
Lawmakers also call for clarification of administration’s practices
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA), joined by Reps. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Adam Smith (WA-09), Denny Heck (WA-10), Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Rick Larsen (WA-02), and Suzan DelBene (WA-01), sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly to express concern that enforcement priorities are now so broad that Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients, such as Daniel Ramirez Medina, may be caught up in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids.
Under the Executive Order titled “Enhancing Public Safety in the Interior of the United States,” Mr. Ramirez should not have been a priority for detention by ICE. The letter seeks clarification of the changes to ICE’s enforcement priorities and the practices of ICE agents at the doors and in the homes of immigrants.
“We expect due process and facts to guide government agency’s actions,” the members of Congress wrote. “But what we have seen from this administration is repeated falsehoods about immigrants and refugees, and suspicion and allegations rule the day. This is unacceptable, and we demand better.”
That America may break its promise to DACA recipients, who came out of the shadows to sign up for the program with the understanding that they would not be targeted for detention and deportation if they followed the law, is of particular concern to the members of Congress. Further, the Senators and Representatives note that immigration raids do not succeed in creating safe communities.
“In nearly all circumstances, engaging in immigration raids to detain people is unnecessary and damaging to our communities,” wrote the members of Congress.
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wa-dems-concerned-about-detention-of-dreamer-denounce-ice-raids
News Notebook: No, I'm Not a Muslim Too!---Truth for the World
In hopes to garner sympathy from those in the world, there are many so-called “Christians” carrying signs and shouting “I’m a Muslim too.” I want to start by explaining that if you are a Muslim, then you are not a Christian. If you are a Christian, then you are not a Muslim! There's simply no two ways about it.
https://truthfortheworld.org/blog/2017/02/no,-im-not-a-muslim-too!?platform=hootsuite
Editorial Note: This is the latest chic thing to do in some circles to show empathy toward a religion that is bent on world dominance through intimidation even force, on those who want no part of.
I agree it's outright denying one's faith in Christ, in order to be chic, in order to be part of the crowd is stupid to say the least. It's the short of thing you find in highschool, a bunch of sheep following a shepard down a wrong path because it just feels good to do so. I was never part of the crowd in highschool, never joined the bandwagon to "fit in", so I won't start now. My faith is in Christ Jesus, not in a pretender.
click here for local headlines making news....
Thursday, February 23, 2017
COMMON DECENCY TAKEN A BACK SEAT IN WASHINGTON STATE!
Inslee decides to ignore Trumps order to restore public restroom decency...
Statement from Inslee on Trump Administration removing protections for transgender students
“I strongly oppose the Trump Administration’s reversal of federal protection for transgender students. Washington state will continue to be a place where all children can feel safe from discrimination, harassment or assault based on their gender identity. Our state’s law, the Anderson-Murray Act, passed in 2006, will remain in place and is unchanged by the new federal guidance. And just last year our state Human Rights Commission did important work to put rules in place that uphold the rights of our transgender students and residents. Our schools will protect transgender students and ensure they have access to the same facilities, classes, and the opportunities as other students.
“We will continue to stand together to protect some of our most vulnerable students - we know that these young people face high rates of bullying, harassment and even violence. We have a long way to go to make sure that all our students can learn safely and free from discrimination.”
http://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/statement-inslee-trump-administration-removing-protections-transgender-students
Related stories..
Bellingham Herald: Seattle mayor says Trump transgender move is 'bullying'
http://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/state/washington/article134383724.html#navlink=SecList
Everett Herald: End of transgender bathroom rule gets conservative praise
http://www.heraldnet.com/news/end-of-transgender-bathroom-rule-gets-conservative-praise/
The Olympian: What happens now to the Supreme Court's first transgender rights case?
http://www.theolympian.com/news/politics-government/article134447984.html#navlink=SecList
Seattle PI: Trump withdraws federal protection for transgender kids' bathroom choice
http://www.seattlepi.com/local/politics/article/Trump-withdraws-federal-protection-for-bathroom-10952495.php
For more state news click here
Wednesday, February 22, 2017
" Thomas Jefferson, Andrew Jackson and Abraham Lincoln, and many of our greatest Presidents, fought with the media and called them out, oftentimes on their lies." ---President Trump
Remarks by President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at Make America Great Again Rally
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you, everybody. Thank you all. I didn’t know that Melania was going to be saying the Lord's Prayer, but I thought that was very beautiful. Thank you. Thank you.
It's so great to be here in Florida, my second home, with you. This is a state I truly love. This is a state where we all had great victory together. Thank you. It's now been one month since my inauguration, and I am here to tell you about our incredible progress in Making America Great Again. And I’m also here to tell you about our plans for the future. And they're big and they're bold, and it's what our country is all about, believe me.
I'm here because I want to be among my friends and among the people. This was a great movement -- a movement like has never been seen before in our country, or probably anywhere else. This was a truly great movement, and I want to be here with you, and I will always be with you, I promise you. I want to be in a room filled with hardworking American patriots who love their country, who salute their flag, and who pray for a better future.
I also want to speak to you without the filter of the fake news. The dishonest media, which has published one false story after another, with no sources, even though they pretend they have them -- they make them up in many cases -- they just don’t want to report the truth, and they've been calling us wrong now for two years. They don’t get it, but they're starting to get it, I can tell you that. They've become a big part of the problem. They are part of the corrupt system.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/18/remarks-president-trump-and-first-lady-melania-trump-make-america-grea-0
More from the White House..
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much, everybody. It's a great honor to be here. This was some beautiful morning and what a job they've done, like few others have been able to do.
I am very, very proud of Lonnie Bunch. The work and the love that he has in his heart for what he's done is -- I always talk about you need enthusiasm, you need really love for anything you do to do it successfully. And, Lonnie, you are where? Come on. Where's Lonnie? You should be up here, Lonnie. Come on.
And David -- we have to get David up here, too. David Skorton is tremendous and he was singing Lonnie's praises all morning long. So you two should at least be here. So we appreciate it very much.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/21/remarks-president-trump-national-museum-african-american-history-and
Remarks by President Trump Announcing the Designation of Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster to National Security Advisor
THE PRESIDENT: So I just wanted to announce -- we've been working all weekend very diligently, very hard -- that General H.R. McMaster will become the National Security Advisor. He's a man of tremendous talent and tremendous experience. I watched and read a lot over the last two days. He is highly respected by everybody in the military. And we're very honored to have him. He also has also known for a long time General Keith Kellogg, who I also have gotten to know and he's a terrific man, and they're going to be working together. And Keith is going to be Chief of Staff, and I think that combination is something very, very special.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/20/remarks-president-trump-announcing-designation-lieutenant-general-hr
Statement by President Donald J. Trump on the Death of Russia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Vitaly Churkin
President Donald J. Trump was saddened to learn of the unexpected death of Russia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Vitaly Churkin. An accomplished diplomat, Ambassador Churkin worked alongside his U.S. counterparts in New York for more than a decade. While American officials sometimes disagreed with their Russian counterparts, Ambassador Churkin played a crucial role in working with the United States on a number of key issues to advance global security. The President offers the condolences of the American people to the Russian people and government.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/21/statement-president-donald-j-trump-death-russias-permanent
For more national and advocacy news headlines click here
YOUR DONATION WOULD BE APPRECIATED
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you, everybody. Thank you all. I didn’t know that Melania was going to be saying the Lord's Prayer, but I thought that was very beautiful. Thank you. Thank you.
It's so great to be here in Florida, my second home, with you. This is a state I truly love. This is a state where we all had great victory together. Thank you. It's now been one month since my inauguration, and I am here to tell you about our incredible progress in Making America Great Again. And I’m also here to tell you about our plans for the future. And they're big and they're bold, and it's what our country is all about, believe me.
I'm here because I want to be among my friends and among the people. This was a great movement -- a movement like has never been seen before in our country, or probably anywhere else. This was a truly great movement, and I want to be here with you, and I will always be with you, I promise you. I want to be in a room filled with hardworking American patriots who love their country, who salute their flag, and who pray for a better future.
I also want to speak to you without the filter of the fake news. The dishonest media, which has published one false story after another, with no sources, even though they pretend they have them -- they make them up in many cases -- they just don’t want to report the truth, and they've been calling us wrong now for two years. They don’t get it, but they're starting to get it, I can tell you that. They've become a big part of the problem. They are part of the corrupt system.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/18/remarks-president-trump-and-first-lady-melania-trump-make-america-grea-0
More from the White House..
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much, everybody. It's a great honor to be here. This was some beautiful morning and what a job they've done, like few others have been able to do.
I am very, very proud of Lonnie Bunch. The work and the love that he has in his heart for what he's done is -- I always talk about you need enthusiasm, you need really love for anything you do to do it successfully. And, Lonnie, you are where? Come on. Where's Lonnie? You should be up here, Lonnie. Come on.
And David -- we have to get David up here, too. David Skorton is tremendous and he was singing Lonnie's praises all morning long. So you two should at least be here. So we appreciate it very much.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/21/remarks-president-trump-national-museum-african-american-history-and
Remarks by President Trump Announcing the Designation of Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster to National Security Advisor
THE PRESIDENT: So I just wanted to announce -- we've been working all weekend very diligently, very hard -- that General H.R. McMaster will become the National Security Advisor. He's a man of tremendous talent and tremendous experience. I watched and read a lot over the last two days. He is highly respected by everybody in the military. And we're very honored to have him. He also has also known for a long time General Keith Kellogg, who I also have gotten to know and he's a terrific man, and they're going to be working together. And Keith is going to be Chief of Staff, and I think that combination is something very, very special.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/20/remarks-president-trump-announcing-designation-lieutenant-general-hr
Statement by President Donald J. Trump on the Death of Russia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Vitaly Churkin
President Donald J. Trump was saddened to learn of the unexpected death of Russia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Vitaly Churkin. An accomplished diplomat, Ambassador Churkin worked alongside his U.S. counterparts in New York for more than a decade. While American officials sometimes disagreed with their Russian counterparts, Ambassador Churkin played a crucial role in working with the United States on a number of key issues to advance global security. The President offers the condolences of the American people to the Russian people and government.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/21/statement-president-donald-j-trump-death-russias-permanent
For more national and advocacy news headlines click here
YOUR DONATION WOULD BE APPRECIATED
Tuesday, February 21, 2017
" We live in a dangerous world. We are witnessing a multiplication of new conflicts, old conflicts seem never to die – be it in Afghanistan or Somalia ." ---Sec. General António Guterres.
Remarks to Munich Security Conference
António Guterres. Sec. General
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, it is indeed a great pleasure for me to be back in Munich now in this new capacity.
We live in a dangerous world. We are witnessing a multiplication of new conflicts, old conflicts seem never to die – be it in Afghanistan or Somalia – and these conflicts are becoming more and more interlinked and linked to a new threat of global terrorism. If one looks from Nigeria to Mali to Libya, Israel-Palestine, Syria, Somalia, Yemen, Afghanistan, it is clear that all these crises are connected to each other. Fighters moving from one place to another and sometimes going back to countries of origin, namely here in Germany, representing a huge threat to our common global security.
Now, many of these conflicts were borne of the fragility of states. In the beginning, they were internal conflicts, sometimes asymmetric, normally with huge violations of international humanitarian law and huge suffering, displacement of populations, but then other states become involved – either as parties to the conflict or supporters of the parties to the conflict. They internationalize, [become] interlinked, more strongly, and the truth is that they have been developing in a world where power relations became unclear.
I lived the Cold War, the bipolar world. I lived as Prime Minister [during] the period of a unipolar world. Now, yet we are not in a multipolar world, we are in a kind of chaotic situation, probably leading to a multipolar world. But in these chaotic situations with unclear power relations, impunity and unpredictability have been the name of the game. And it is in this context that I believe that we need and, I’ve said it several times, a surge in diplomacy for peace. Members States will have to assume the leading role, but I presume the Secretary-General of the United Nations can, using his good offices, be an added value in that surge, acting as a catalyst, sometimes a convener, but always as a bridge-builder and an honest broker. And trying to make countries understand, especially those that are involved as parties to a conflict or as supporters of the parties to a conflict, that independently of their differences, their contradictions, their different perspectives, the truth is that the danger for them and the danger for us all, let’s say Syria, for instance not only the suffering of the Syrian people, not only the destabilization of the region, Iraq, refugees in Jordan and Lebanon – but the threat feeding global terrorism, the threat to us all is such and the threat to the countries involved is such that I believe the intelligent thing to is to come together and put an end to this kind of conflict.
Read more: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/speeches/2017-02-18/secretary-general%E2%80%99s-munich-remarks
From the UN NEWS CENTER:
'Time lost means lives lost,' warns UN aid chief, releasing funds to tackle drought in Ethiopia
21 February 2017 – The top United Nations humanitarian official today released $18.5 million from the organization's Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to enable critical aid for more than 785,000 people suffering from hunger, malnutrition and severe water shortages in Ethiopia's Somali region – the worst drought-stricken part of the country.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56213#.WKxr7fkrIps
'We cannot give up the fight' to end child recruitment, says UNICEF chief
21 February 2017 – Even though over the past 10 years, more than 65,000 children have been released from armed forces and armed groups, tens of thousands of boys and girls under the age of 18 continue to be used in conflicts around the world, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said today.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56212#.WKxsZ_krIps
UN Security Council condemns latest terrorist attack in Mogadishu
20 February 2017 – Strongly condemning the latest deadly terrorist attack in the Somali capital, Mogadishu, the United Nations Security Council today reiterated that its determination to support peace, security and development in the long-troubled country would not be swayed by this, or any other such attack.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56211#.WKxsv_krIps
Critical food aid shortages hit Africa's refugees hard, UN warns
20 February 2017 – Across Africa, some two million refugees are facing critical shortages in food assistance, the United Nations warned today.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56207#.WKxtJPkrIps
Amid global paradox, solutions that unify economic and social progress needed – UN labour chief
20 February 2017 – Highlighting that many around the world are left out from being able to benefit from global prosperity dividends and that even flourishing societies are seeing inequalities widen, the head of the United Nations labour agency today called for solutions that can bring economic growth combined with social progress.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56206#.WKxve_krIps
For more world news headlines click here
António Guterres. Sec. General
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, it is indeed a great pleasure for me to be back in Munich now in this new capacity.
We live in a dangerous world. We are witnessing a multiplication of new conflicts, old conflicts seem never to die – be it in Afghanistan or Somalia – and these conflicts are becoming more and more interlinked and linked to a new threat of global terrorism. If one looks from Nigeria to Mali to Libya, Israel-Palestine, Syria, Somalia, Yemen, Afghanistan, it is clear that all these crises are connected to each other. Fighters moving from one place to another and sometimes going back to countries of origin, namely here in Germany, representing a huge threat to our common global security.
Now, many of these conflicts were borne of the fragility of states. In the beginning, they were internal conflicts, sometimes asymmetric, normally with huge violations of international humanitarian law and huge suffering, displacement of populations, but then other states become involved – either as parties to the conflict or supporters of the parties to the conflict. They internationalize, [become] interlinked, more strongly, and the truth is that they have been developing in a world where power relations became unclear.
I lived the Cold War, the bipolar world. I lived as Prime Minister [during] the period of a unipolar world. Now, yet we are not in a multipolar world, we are in a kind of chaotic situation, probably leading to a multipolar world. But in these chaotic situations with unclear power relations, impunity and unpredictability have been the name of the game. And it is in this context that I believe that we need and, I’ve said it several times, a surge in diplomacy for peace. Members States will have to assume the leading role, but I presume the Secretary-General of the United Nations can, using his good offices, be an added value in that surge, acting as a catalyst, sometimes a convener, but always as a bridge-builder and an honest broker. And trying to make countries understand, especially those that are involved as parties to a conflict or as supporters of the parties to a conflict, that independently of their differences, their contradictions, their different perspectives, the truth is that the danger for them and the danger for us all, let’s say Syria, for instance not only the suffering of the Syrian people, not only the destabilization of the region, Iraq, refugees in Jordan and Lebanon – but the threat feeding global terrorism, the threat to us all is such and the threat to the countries involved is such that I believe the intelligent thing to is to come together and put an end to this kind of conflict.
Read more: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/speeches/2017-02-18/secretary-general%E2%80%99s-munich-remarks
From the UN NEWS CENTER:
'Time lost means lives lost,' warns UN aid chief, releasing funds to tackle drought in Ethiopia
21 February 2017 – The top United Nations humanitarian official today released $18.5 million from the organization's Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to enable critical aid for more than 785,000 people suffering from hunger, malnutrition and severe water shortages in Ethiopia's Somali region – the worst drought-stricken part of the country.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56213#.WKxr7fkrIps
'We cannot give up the fight' to end child recruitment, says UNICEF chief
21 February 2017 – Even though over the past 10 years, more than 65,000 children have been released from armed forces and armed groups, tens of thousands of boys and girls under the age of 18 continue to be used in conflicts around the world, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said today.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56212#.WKxsZ_krIps
UN Security Council condemns latest terrorist attack in Mogadishu
20 February 2017 – Strongly condemning the latest deadly terrorist attack in the Somali capital, Mogadishu, the United Nations Security Council today reiterated that its determination to support peace, security and development in the long-troubled country would not be swayed by this, or any other such attack.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56211#.WKxsv_krIps
Critical food aid shortages hit Africa's refugees hard, UN warns
20 February 2017 – Across Africa, some two million refugees are facing critical shortages in food assistance, the United Nations warned today.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56207#.WKxtJPkrIps
Amid global paradox, solutions that unify economic and social progress needed – UN labour chief
20 February 2017 – Highlighting that many around the world are left out from being able to benefit from global prosperity dividends and that even flourishing societies are seeing inequalities widen, the head of the United Nations labour agency today called for solutions that can bring economic growth combined with social progress.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56206#.WKxve_krIps
For more world news headlines click here
Monday, February 20, 2017
USDA: Flushed Away…Probing For Antibiotic Presence in Our Food Supply
It’s a question with major public-health implications: Could antibiotics and other widely used medications get into our food supply when they are flushed into our sewers?
To try to answer that question, researchers from USDA and Penn State University (PSU) assessed whether some commonly used pharmaceuticals could get into a wheat crop irrigated with recycled wastewater.
Clinton Williams, a soil scientist with the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in Maricopa, AZ, and Alison Franklin, a Penn State doctoral candidate, along with her PSU adviser Jack Watson, evaluated wheat irrigated with treated wastewater at a specially designed site at University Park, Pennsylvania. The site was spray-irrigated with treated recycled wastewater over a 12-hour period at weekly intervals.
https://blogs.usda.gov/2017/02/17/flushed-away-probing-for-antibiotic-presence-in-our-food-supply/
Research Can Help the Economy and Inform Policy
When most people think of forests, science isn’t the first thing that comes to mind, but, perhaps, it should. That’s because the U.S. Forest Service Research and Development program oversees projects across many science disciplines including forestry, genetics, wildlife, forest products and wildfire.
And the agency has been using this science to deliver returns on investments for stakeholders, industry partners, and the public.
For instance Forest Service research supported the U.S. Fish and Wildlife’s decision to not list the Greater sage-grouse under the Endangered Species Act, listing the species would have necessitated restrictions on economic activity across 163 million acres.
Because monitoring and managing rare species can be expensive, Forest Service researchers developed new environmental DNA (eDNA) technologies that make it easier and less expensive to monitor rare fish species. Additionally, Forest Inventory and Analysis research estimates the value of carbon sequestered in U.S. forestlands from 2016-2045 at $450 billion.
https://blogs.usda.gov/2017/02/16/research-can-help-the-economy-and-inform-policy/
Tornado Devastates NFC Building, But Not NFC Workers
Within minutes of being notified of an impending storm, the employees of the US Department of Agriculture’s National Finance Center (NFC) in New Orleans felt the devastating impact of the EF-3 tornado that descend upon the two-story building with enough force to tear away whole sections of the brick façade in eight places and leave portions of its interior exposed to the elements.
“I could see it coming,” said Tara Gilliam, chief of Human Resources Management Staff. “It swallowed the building in a matter of seconds.”
Acting Deputy Director Michael Jackson saved countless lives by running down the halls to alert his coworkers of the incoming danger. He yelled for people to take cover before the pelting rain and heavy winds, reminiscent of the thunderous sound of a freight train, engulfed the NFC.
https://blogs.usda.gov/2017/02/15/tornado-devastates-nfc-building-but-not-nfc-workers/
Acting Secretary of Agriculture Visits Workers Impacted By Louisiana Tornado and Tours Storm Damage
WASHINGTON, Feb. 15, 2017 - Acting Agriculture Deputy Secretary Mike Young visited the displaced workers of the USDA Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO) National Finance Center (NFC) Monday after an EF-3 tornado hit the New Orleans-based NFC building last week, causing severe damage. No one was seriously hurt as a result of the storm, which struck at approximately 11:20 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2017.
Following the tornado, the NFC immediately implemented its Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) and within 12 hours advance teams were relocated to the alternate work site (AWS) in Bossier City, near Shreveport, La., to begin the resumption of business operations. The tornado struck NFC in the beginning of a pay week and NFC was able to ensure the safety of all employees, recover from the tornado, deploy staff to the AWS site in Bossier City, and still make timely payroll deposits to all employees they service.
"I wanted to say thank you," said Young addressing a crowd of NFC employees. He stressed the work they do is incredibly important, and commended them for their ability to execute their COOP in an instant and still deliver on providing the vital services without interruption. Young, along with the USDA Acting Chief Finical Officer Lynn Moaney, met with employees to express his gratitude and admiration for their hard work and personal sacrifice that kept the NFC running.
https://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2017/02/0014.xml&navid=NEWS_RELEASE&navtype=RT&parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&edeployment_action=retrievecontent
For more business and finance news click here
News Notebook: DNR offering 3,000-acre agricultural lease in Paterson’s Horse Heaven Hills (from a Feb. 8th news release)
Bids, due April 6, to include water delivery
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is offering for lease approximately 3,000 acres of agricultural land in the Paterson-Horse Heaven Hills region. The bid opportunity is unique for its large size, atypical lease structure and the ability to tap into 3.9 acre feet of non-interruptible Columbia River water per acre.
http://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/dnr-offering-3000-acre-agricultural-lease-paterson%E2%80%99s-horse-heaven-hills
To try to answer that question, researchers from USDA and Penn State University (PSU) assessed whether some commonly used pharmaceuticals could get into a wheat crop irrigated with recycled wastewater.
Clinton Williams, a soil scientist with the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in Maricopa, AZ, and Alison Franklin, a Penn State doctoral candidate, along with her PSU adviser Jack Watson, evaluated wheat irrigated with treated wastewater at a specially designed site at University Park, Pennsylvania. The site was spray-irrigated with treated recycled wastewater over a 12-hour period at weekly intervals.
https://blogs.usda.gov/2017/02/17/flushed-away-probing-for-antibiotic-presence-in-our-food-supply/
More USDA NEWS...
Research Can Help the Economy and Inform Policy
When most people think of forests, science isn’t the first thing that comes to mind, but, perhaps, it should. That’s because the U.S. Forest Service Research and Development program oversees projects across many science disciplines including forestry, genetics, wildlife, forest products and wildfire.
And the agency has been using this science to deliver returns on investments for stakeholders, industry partners, and the public.
For instance Forest Service research supported the U.S. Fish and Wildlife’s decision to not list the Greater sage-grouse under the Endangered Species Act, listing the species would have necessitated restrictions on economic activity across 163 million acres.
Because monitoring and managing rare species can be expensive, Forest Service researchers developed new environmental DNA (eDNA) technologies that make it easier and less expensive to monitor rare fish species. Additionally, Forest Inventory and Analysis research estimates the value of carbon sequestered in U.S. forestlands from 2016-2045 at $450 billion.
https://blogs.usda.gov/2017/02/16/research-can-help-the-economy-and-inform-policy/
Tornado Devastates NFC Building, But Not NFC Workers
Within minutes of being notified of an impending storm, the employees of the US Department of Agriculture’s National Finance Center (NFC) in New Orleans felt the devastating impact of the EF-3 tornado that descend upon the two-story building with enough force to tear away whole sections of the brick façade in eight places and leave portions of its interior exposed to the elements.
“I could see it coming,” said Tara Gilliam, chief of Human Resources Management Staff. “It swallowed the building in a matter of seconds.”
Acting Deputy Director Michael Jackson saved countless lives by running down the halls to alert his coworkers of the incoming danger. He yelled for people to take cover before the pelting rain and heavy winds, reminiscent of the thunderous sound of a freight train, engulfed the NFC.
https://blogs.usda.gov/2017/02/15/tornado-devastates-nfc-building-but-not-nfc-workers/
Acting Secretary of Agriculture Visits Workers Impacted By Louisiana Tornado and Tours Storm Damage
WASHINGTON, Feb. 15, 2017 - Acting Agriculture Deputy Secretary Mike Young visited the displaced workers of the USDA Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO) National Finance Center (NFC) Monday after an EF-3 tornado hit the New Orleans-based NFC building last week, causing severe damage. No one was seriously hurt as a result of the storm, which struck at approximately 11:20 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2017.
Following the tornado, the NFC immediately implemented its Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) and within 12 hours advance teams were relocated to the alternate work site (AWS) in Bossier City, near Shreveport, La., to begin the resumption of business operations. The tornado struck NFC in the beginning of a pay week and NFC was able to ensure the safety of all employees, recover from the tornado, deploy staff to the AWS site in Bossier City, and still make timely payroll deposits to all employees they service.
"I wanted to say thank you," said Young addressing a crowd of NFC employees. He stressed the work they do is incredibly important, and commended them for their ability to execute their COOP in an instant and still deliver on providing the vital services without interruption. Young, along with the USDA Acting Chief Finical Officer Lynn Moaney, met with employees to express his gratitude and admiration for their hard work and personal sacrifice that kept the NFC running.
https://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2017/02/0014.xml&navid=NEWS_RELEASE&navtype=RT&parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&edeployment_action=retrievecontent
For more business and finance news click here
News Notebook: DNR offering 3,000-acre agricultural lease in Paterson’s Horse Heaven Hills (from a Feb. 8th news release)
Bids, due April 6, to include water delivery
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is offering for lease approximately 3,000 acres of agricultural land in the Paterson-Horse Heaven Hills region. The bid opportunity is unique for its large size, atypical lease structure and the ability to tap into 3.9 acre feet of non-interruptible Columbia River water per acre.
http://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/dnr-offering-3000-acre-agricultural-lease-paterson%E2%80%99s-horse-heaven-hills
(In case you missed it category)
Saturday, February 18, 2017
WDFW announces changes to 2017 ocean bottomfish fishery
http://wdfw.wa.gov/news/feb1717a/
OLYMPIA – Anglers can expect changes to recreational bottomfish fisheries when ocean marine areas re-open March 11 to fishing for species such as lingcod and rockfish.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is making the changes to help ensure rockfish catches align with harvest limits adopted by the Pacific Fishery Management Council. The council is responsible for establishing conservation measures in ocean waters three to 200 miles off the Pacific coast.
Changes in effect beginning March 11 for the 2017-18 fishing season include:
Rockfish daily limit: Reduces the daily limit on rockfish to seven, from 10, in Marine Areas 1 (Ilwaco), 2 (Westport), 3 (La Push), and 4 (Neah Bay, west of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line).
Canary rockfish daily limit: Anglers fishing in Marine Areas 1 and 2 can retain one canary rockfish as part of the seven rockfish daily limit.
Bottomfish daily limit: Reduces the overall daily limit on bottomfish to nine, from 12, in Marine Areas 1 through 3 and Marine Area 4, west of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line. Rockfish count toward an angler's overall bottomfish daily limit. Anglers will be able to retain two bottomfish, such as lingcod or cabezon, in addition to their daily limit of seven rockfish.
Lingcod minimum size: Removes the 22-inch minimum size for lingcod in Marine Areas 1 through 3 and Marine Area 4, west of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line.
Deepwater lingcod closure: Reduces the size of the deepwater lingcod closure in Marine Area 1 by moving the southern boundary five miles north (to 46° 28.00' N. Lat. from 46° 33.00' N. Lat.).
WDFW is implementing the changes to daily catch limits to help ensure the conservation objective for black rockfish is met, said Michele Culver, intergovernmental ocean policy manager for the department.
"The black rockfish population remains healthy in Washington's ocean waters," Culver said. "However, we've seen an increasing number of anglers fishing for rockfish in recent years, which means more fish are being harvested than what we had estimated."
Meanwhile, anglers fishing in Marine Areas 1 and 2 now will be able to retain one canary rockfish as part of the daily limit for rockfish. Retention of canary rockfish previously had been prohibited in these areas to protect the species.
"Fortunately, the population of canary rockfish has rebounded and is now sufficient to allow harvest in areas 1 and 2," said Culver. "Anglers are still prohibited from keeping canary rockfish in Marine Areas 3 and 4, but that may change in the future."
In all four marine areas, anglers will now be able to retain lingcod regardless of fish size. Lingcod are abundant and removing the minimum size requirement is not expected to have any effect on the species' population, Culver said. The change also should benefit the yelloweye rockfish population, which is still rebuilding, by reducing encounters with the species while anglers are fishing for lingcod, she said.
Lastly, Culver said anglers should be aware that beginning July 1, they'll need to have a descending device aboard their fishing vessel in all marine areas, including the coast. Descending devices are used to release rockfish back to the depth of capture and significantly improve the survivability of fish that are released. More information about these devices can be found on WDFW's website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/bottomfish/rockfish/mortality.html
For local meetings and commentaries click here
YOUR DONATION IS APPRECIATED
OLYMPIA – Anglers can expect changes to recreational bottomfish fisheries when ocean marine areas re-open March 11 to fishing for species such as lingcod and rockfish.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is making the changes to help ensure rockfish catches align with harvest limits adopted by the Pacific Fishery Management Council. The council is responsible for establishing conservation measures in ocean waters three to 200 miles off the Pacific coast.
Changes in effect beginning March 11 for the 2017-18 fishing season include:
Rockfish daily limit: Reduces the daily limit on rockfish to seven, from 10, in Marine Areas 1 (Ilwaco), 2 (Westport), 3 (La Push), and 4 (Neah Bay, west of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line).
Canary rockfish daily limit: Anglers fishing in Marine Areas 1 and 2 can retain one canary rockfish as part of the seven rockfish daily limit.
Bottomfish daily limit: Reduces the overall daily limit on bottomfish to nine, from 12, in Marine Areas 1 through 3 and Marine Area 4, west of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line. Rockfish count toward an angler's overall bottomfish daily limit. Anglers will be able to retain two bottomfish, such as lingcod or cabezon, in addition to their daily limit of seven rockfish.
Lingcod minimum size: Removes the 22-inch minimum size for lingcod in Marine Areas 1 through 3 and Marine Area 4, west of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line.
Deepwater lingcod closure: Reduces the size of the deepwater lingcod closure in Marine Area 1 by moving the southern boundary five miles north (to 46° 28.00' N. Lat. from 46° 33.00' N. Lat.).
WDFW is implementing the changes to daily catch limits to help ensure the conservation objective for black rockfish is met, said Michele Culver, intergovernmental ocean policy manager for the department.
"The black rockfish population remains healthy in Washington's ocean waters," Culver said. "However, we've seen an increasing number of anglers fishing for rockfish in recent years, which means more fish are being harvested than what we had estimated."
Meanwhile, anglers fishing in Marine Areas 1 and 2 now will be able to retain one canary rockfish as part of the daily limit for rockfish. Retention of canary rockfish previously had been prohibited in these areas to protect the species.
"Fortunately, the population of canary rockfish has rebounded and is now sufficient to allow harvest in areas 1 and 2," said Culver. "Anglers are still prohibited from keeping canary rockfish in Marine Areas 3 and 4, but that may change in the future."
In all four marine areas, anglers will now be able to retain lingcod regardless of fish size. Lingcod are abundant and removing the minimum size requirement is not expected to have any effect on the species' population, Culver said. The change also should benefit the yelloweye rockfish population, which is still rebuilding, by reducing encounters with the species while anglers are fishing for lingcod, she said.
Lastly, Culver said anglers should be aware that beginning July 1, they'll need to have a descending device aboard their fishing vessel in all marine areas, including the coast. Descending devices are used to release rockfish back to the depth of capture and significantly improve the survivability of fish that are released. More information about these devices can be found on WDFW's website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/bottomfish/rockfish/mortality.html
For local meetings and commentaries click here
YOUR DONATION IS APPRECIATED
Friday, February 17, 2017
TRUMP TOOK THE MEDIA TO THE WOODSHED, AND THEY DON'T LIKE IT!
" If we have a good relationship with Russia, believe me, that's a good thing, not a bad thing.' President Trump
Remarks by President Trump in Press Conference
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/16/remarks-president-trump-press-conference
Quote from the President answering question regarding Russia:
Q President Trump, since you brought up Russia, I'm looking for some clarification here. During the campaign, did anyone from your team communicate with members of the Russian government or Russian intelligence? And if so, what was the nature of those conversations?
THE PRESIDENT: Well, the failing New York Times wrote a big, long front-page story yesterday. And it was very much discredited, as you know. It was -- it’s a joke. And the people mentioned in the story -- I notice they were on television today saying they never even spoke to Russia. They weren’t even a part, really -- I mean, they were such a minor part -- I hadn’t spoken to them. I think the one person, I don’t think I’ve ever spoken to him. I don’t think I’ve ever met him. And he actually said he was a very low-level member of, I think, a committee for a short period of time. I don’t think I ever met him. Now, it’s possible that I walked into a room and he was sitting there, but I don’t think I ever met him. I didn’t talk to him, ever. And he thought it was a joke.
The other person said he never spoke to Russia, never received a call. Look at his phone records, et cetera, et cetera. And the other person, people knew that he’d represented various countries, but I don't think he represented Russia -- but knew that he represented various countries. That's what he does. I mean, people know that. That's Mr. Manafort, who's, by the way -- who's, by the way, a respected man. He’s a respected man. But I think he represented the Ukraine, or Ukraine government, or somebody. But everybody -- people knew that. Everybody knew that. So these people -- and he said that he has absolutely nothing to do and never has with Russia. And he said that very forcefully. I saw his statement. He said it very forcefully. Most of the papers don't print it because that's not good for their stories.
So the three people that they talked about all totally deny it. And I can tell you, speaking for myself, I own nothing in Russia. I have no loans in Russia. I don't have any deals in Russia. President Putin called me up very nicely to congratulate me on the win of the election. He then called me up extremely nicely to congratulate me on the inauguration, which was terrific. But so did many other leaders -- almost all other leaders from almost all other countries. So that's the extent.
Russia is fake news. Russia -- this is fake news put out by the media. The real news is the fact that people, probably from the Obama administration because they're there -- because we have our new people going in place right now. As you know, Mike Pompeo is now taking control of the CIA. James Comey at FBI. Dan Coats is waiting to be approved. I mean, he is a senator, and a highly respected one. And he’s still waiting to be approved. But our new people are going in.
And just while you're at, because you mentioned this, Wall Street Journal did a story today that was almost as disgraceful as the failing New Times’s story yesterday. And it talked about -- you saw it, front page. So, Director of National Intelligence just put out -- acting -- a statement: “Any suggestion that the United States intelligence community” -- this was just given to us -- “is withholding information and not providing the best possible intelligence to the President and his national security team is not true.”
So they took this front-page story out of The Wall Street Journal -- top -- and they just wrote the story is not true. And I’ll tell you something, I’ll be honest -- because I sort of enjoy this back and forth, and I guess I have all my life, but I’ve never seen more dishonest media than, frankly, the political media. I thought the financial media was much better, much more honest. But I will say that I never get phone calls from the media. How do they write a story like that in The Wall Street Journal without asking me? Or how do they write a story in The New York Times, put it on front page? That was like that story they wrote about the women and me -- front page. Big massive story. And it was nasty.
And then they called. They said, "We never said that. We like Mr. Trump." They called up my office -- we like Mr. Trump; we never said that. And it was totally -- they totally misrepresented those very wonderful women, I have to tell you -- totally misrepresented. I said, give us a retraction. They never gave us a retraction. And, frankly, I then went on to other things.
Watch full press conference: https://www.whitehouse.gov/featured-videos/video/2017/02/17/president-trump-holds-press-conference
Editorial Comment: Trump took the media to the woodshed, and the liberal media doesn't like it! The question the Trump asked during the press confrence is why can't we get along with Russia? I agree with Trump that trying to get along with Russia, China, and others is a good thing. It's the Democrats, and liberal media hacks who are against getting along with Russia, and that's Ironic because so many of these media types and politicians who claim to want peace. The press decried their credibility been tarnished by Trump. Since when it's the job of the president to ensure the media credibility? Like trust, respect, credibility is earned. So, the media's credibility or lack of, was done solely by them, not the president.
For local, and news from our US Congressional Delegation to Washington DC, click here
Remarks by President Trump in Press Conference
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/16/remarks-president-trump-press-conference
Quote from the President answering question regarding Russia:
Q President Trump, since you brought up Russia, I'm looking for some clarification here. During the campaign, did anyone from your team communicate with members of the Russian government or Russian intelligence? And if so, what was the nature of those conversations?
THE PRESIDENT: Well, the failing New York Times wrote a big, long front-page story yesterday. And it was very much discredited, as you know. It was -- it’s a joke. And the people mentioned in the story -- I notice they were on television today saying they never even spoke to Russia. They weren’t even a part, really -- I mean, they were such a minor part -- I hadn’t spoken to them. I think the one person, I don’t think I’ve ever spoken to him. I don’t think I’ve ever met him. And he actually said he was a very low-level member of, I think, a committee for a short period of time. I don’t think I ever met him. Now, it’s possible that I walked into a room and he was sitting there, but I don’t think I ever met him. I didn’t talk to him, ever. And he thought it was a joke.
The other person said he never spoke to Russia, never received a call. Look at his phone records, et cetera, et cetera. And the other person, people knew that he’d represented various countries, but I don't think he represented Russia -- but knew that he represented various countries. That's what he does. I mean, people know that. That's Mr. Manafort, who's, by the way -- who's, by the way, a respected man. He’s a respected man. But I think he represented the Ukraine, or Ukraine government, or somebody. But everybody -- people knew that. Everybody knew that. So these people -- and he said that he has absolutely nothing to do and never has with Russia. And he said that very forcefully. I saw his statement. He said it very forcefully. Most of the papers don't print it because that's not good for their stories.
So the three people that they talked about all totally deny it. And I can tell you, speaking for myself, I own nothing in Russia. I have no loans in Russia. I don't have any deals in Russia. President Putin called me up very nicely to congratulate me on the win of the election. He then called me up extremely nicely to congratulate me on the inauguration, which was terrific. But so did many other leaders -- almost all other leaders from almost all other countries. So that's the extent.
Russia is fake news. Russia -- this is fake news put out by the media. The real news is the fact that people, probably from the Obama administration because they're there -- because we have our new people going in place right now. As you know, Mike Pompeo is now taking control of the CIA. James Comey at FBI. Dan Coats is waiting to be approved. I mean, he is a senator, and a highly respected one. And he’s still waiting to be approved. But our new people are going in.
And just while you're at, because you mentioned this, Wall Street Journal did a story today that was almost as disgraceful as the failing New Times’s story yesterday. And it talked about -- you saw it, front page. So, Director of National Intelligence just put out -- acting -- a statement: “Any suggestion that the United States intelligence community” -- this was just given to us -- “is withholding information and not providing the best possible intelligence to the President and his national security team is not true.”
So they took this front-page story out of The Wall Street Journal -- top -- and they just wrote the story is not true. And I’ll tell you something, I’ll be honest -- because I sort of enjoy this back and forth, and I guess I have all my life, but I’ve never seen more dishonest media than, frankly, the political media. I thought the financial media was much better, much more honest. But I will say that I never get phone calls from the media. How do they write a story like that in The Wall Street Journal without asking me? Or how do they write a story in The New York Times, put it on front page? That was like that story they wrote about the women and me -- front page. Big massive story. And it was nasty.
And then they called. They said, "We never said that. We like Mr. Trump." They called up my office -- we like Mr. Trump; we never said that. And it was totally -- they totally misrepresented those very wonderful women, I have to tell you -- totally misrepresented. I said, give us a retraction. They never gave us a retraction. And, frankly, I then went on to other things.
Watch full press conference: https://www.whitehouse.gov/featured-videos/video/2017/02/17/president-trump-holds-press-conference
Editorial Comment: Trump took the media to the woodshed, and the liberal media doesn't like it! The question the Trump asked during the press confrence is why can't we get along with Russia? I agree with Trump that trying to get along with Russia, China, and others is a good thing. It's the Democrats, and liberal media hacks who are against getting along with Russia, and that's Ironic because so many of these media types and politicians who claim to want peace. The press decried their credibility been tarnished by Trump. Since when it's the job of the president to ensure the media credibility? Like trust, respect, credibility is earned. So, the media's credibility or lack of, was done solely by them, not the president.
For local, and news from our US Congressional Delegation to Washington DC, click here
Thursday, February 16, 2017
Congressman Kilmer: Kilmer & Newhouse Reintroduce Bill to Fix Veterans Healthcare System Mismanagement Issues
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA) reintroduced legislation to force the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to move forward on fixes to its mismanagement issues. Their bill, the VA Management Alignment Act of 2017, would direct the head of the VA to issue a report to Congress detailing the steps they will take to reorganize and effectively improve veterans’ access to quality care.
The legislation, supported by the American Legion and the American Federation of Government Employees, follows the release of comprehensive studies that uncovered management problems at the VHA. The reports that have been issued so far by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) have uncovered problems with the VA’s human resource department and that the VA did not follow through on internal and Congressional recommendations to fix the problems of manipulated wait times and management failures. Additional reports will be released to the public this year.
“Veterans have sacrificed to protect us – we need to have their backs,” said Kilmer. “Stories and reports about manipulated wait times and mismanagement in our VA system proved that systemic reforms were needed. We are calling on the VA to address management challenges and improve care so veterans get the services they have earned.”
“Every veteran deserves the highest level of care,” said Newhouse. “The men and women who served in uniform demonstrated their willingness to sacrifice for our country, and now it’s our responsibility to ensure the VA undertakes a framework to address systemic problems. Rep. Kilmer and I are committed to ensuring our nation’s veterans have access to accountable, improved care.”
The bill from Kilmer and Newhouse calls for the VA to deliver their report to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives within 180 days of the act’s passage. The report would spell out the roles and responsibilities for senior staff and organizational units within the VA and how they work together to promote efficiency and accountability.
In 2014, news reports came out about patient delays at the Phoenix VA and other facilities across the country. A national audit of the VA was conducted and it was found at the time that the VA Puget Sound hospital had new patients waiting 59 days – on average – for an appointment. Nearly 100,000 veterans use the VA Puget Sound system. Nationally, the audit found that 13 percent of VA schedulers reported that supervisors told them to manipulate appointments to make wait times look shorter.
The original GAO report evaluated how well the VHA followed through on recommendations to change management practices from internal and outside reviews of the organization. It also looked at how well a realignment of Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISN) from 21 to 18 was being carried out. Each VISN oversees all VA facilities and personnel in separate regions of the country.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-and-newhouse-reintroduce-bill-to-fix-veterans-healthcare-system-mismanagement-issues-
For state news headlines click here
The legislation, supported by the American Legion and the American Federation of Government Employees, follows the release of comprehensive studies that uncovered management problems at the VHA. The reports that have been issued so far by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) have uncovered problems with the VA’s human resource department and that the VA did not follow through on internal and Congressional recommendations to fix the problems of manipulated wait times and management failures. Additional reports will be released to the public this year.
“Veterans have sacrificed to protect us – we need to have their backs,” said Kilmer. “Stories and reports about manipulated wait times and mismanagement in our VA system proved that systemic reforms were needed. We are calling on the VA to address management challenges and improve care so veterans get the services they have earned.”
“Every veteran deserves the highest level of care,” said Newhouse. “The men and women who served in uniform demonstrated their willingness to sacrifice for our country, and now it’s our responsibility to ensure the VA undertakes a framework to address systemic problems. Rep. Kilmer and I are committed to ensuring our nation’s veterans have access to accountable, improved care.”
The bill from Kilmer and Newhouse calls for the VA to deliver their report to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives within 180 days of the act’s passage. The report would spell out the roles and responsibilities for senior staff and organizational units within the VA and how they work together to promote efficiency and accountability.
In 2014, news reports came out about patient delays at the Phoenix VA and other facilities across the country. A national audit of the VA was conducted and it was found at the time that the VA Puget Sound hospital had new patients waiting 59 days – on average – for an appointment. Nearly 100,000 veterans use the VA Puget Sound system. Nationally, the audit found that 13 percent of VA schedulers reported that supervisors told them to manipulate appointments to make wait times look shorter.
The original GAO report evaluated how well the VHA followed through on recommendations to change management practices from internal and outside reviews of the organization. It also looked at how well a realignment of Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISN) from 21 to 18 was being carried out. Each VISN oversees all VA facilities and personnel in separate regions of the country.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-and-newhouse-reintroduce-bill-to-fix-veterans-healthcare-system-mismanagement-issues-
For state news headlines click here
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
WH: President Donald J. Trump Names Lt. General Joseph Keith Kellogg, Jr. as Acting National Security Advisor
President Donald J. Trump has named Lt. General Joseph Keith Kellogg, Jr. (Ret) as Acting National Security Advisor following the resignation of Lt. General Michael Flynn (Ret). General Kellogg is a decorated veteran of the United States Army, having served from 1967 to 2003, including two tours during the Vietnam War, where he earned the Silver Star, the Bronze Star with “V” device, and the Air Medal with “V” device. He served as the Commander of the 82nd Airborne Division from 1997 to 1998. Prior to his retirement, General Kellogg was Director of the Command, Control, Communications, and Computers Directorate under the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/13/president-donald-j-trump-names-lt-general-joseph-keith-kellogg-jr-acting
The full text of General Flynn’s resignation letter is below:
February 13, 2017
In the course of my duties as the incoming National Security Advisor, I held numerous phone calls with foreign counterparts, ministers, and ambassadors. These calls were to facilitate a smooth transition and begin to build the necessary relationships between the President, his advisors and foreign leaders. Such calls are standard practice in any transition of this magnitude.
Unfortunately, because of the fast pace of events, I inadvertently briefed the Vice President Elect and others with incomplete information regarding my phone calls with the Russian Ambassador. I have sincerely apologized to the President and the Vice President, and they have accepted my apology.
Throughout my over thirty three years of honorable military service, and my tenure as the National Security Advisor, I have always performed my duties with the utmost of integrity and honesty to those I have served, to include the President of the United States.
I am tendering my resignation, honored to have served our nation and the American people in such a distinguished way.
I am also extremely honored to have served President Trump, who in just three weeks, has reoriented American foreign policy in fundamental ways to restore America's leadership position in the world.
As I step away once again from serving my nation in this current capacity, I wish to thank President Trump for his personal loyalty, the friendship of those who I worked with throughout the hard fought campaign, the challenging period of transition, and during the early days of his presidency.
I know with the strong leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Vice President Mike Pence and the superb team they are assembling, this team will go down in history as one of the greatest presidencies in U.S. history, and I firmly believe the American people will be well served as they all work together to help Make America Great Again.
Michael T. Flynn, LTG (Ret)
Assistant to the President / National Security Advisor
Source: The White House press release
Editorial note: If Flynn, committed a crime here he alone should bare the brunt of prosecution, not the entire administration. That's what the liberal media like the Washington Post, NY Times, LA TIMES, and others wants, to have Trump removed from office that's the bottom line. Some of us aren't buying the song and dance of the liberal press.
More White House News, and national headlines click here
NEWS NOTEBOOK:
WH: Joint Press Conference w/ Prime Minister Netanyahu
https://www.whitehouse.gov/featured-videos/video/2017/02/15/joint-press-conference-w-prime-minister-netanyahu
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/02/13/president-donald-j-trump-names-lt-general-joseph-keith-kellogg-jr-acting
The full text of General Flynn’s resignation letter is below:
February 13, 2017
In the course of my duties as the incoming National Security Advisor, I held numerous phone calls with foreign counterparts, ministers, and ambassadors. These calls were to facilitate a smooth transition and begin to build the necessary relationships between the President, his advisors and foreign leaders. Such calls are standard practice in any transition of this magnitude.
Unfortunately, because of the fast pace of events, I inadvertently briefed the Vice President Elect and others with incomplete information regarding my phone calls with the Russian Ambassador. I have sincerely apologized to the President and the Vice President, and they have accepted my apology.
Throughout my over thirty three years of honorable military service, and my tenure as the National Security Advisor, I have always performed my duties with the utmost of integrity and honesty to those I have served, to include the President of the United States.
I am tendering my resignation, honored to have served our nation and the American people in such a distinguished way.
I am also extremely honored to have served President Trump, who in just three weeks, has reoriented American foreign policy in fundamental ways to restore America's leadership position in the world.
As I step away once again from serving my nation in this current capacity, I wish to thank President Trump for his personal loyalty, the friendship of those who I worked with throughout the hard fought campaign, the challenging period of transition, and during the early days of his presidency.
I know with the strong leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Vice President Mike Pence and the superb team they are assembling, this team will go down in history as one of the greatest presidencies in U.S. history, and I firmly believe the American people will be well served as they all work together to help Make America Great Again.
Michael T. Flynn, LTG (Ret)
Assistant to the President / National Security Advisor
Source: The White House press release
Editorial note: If Flynn, committed a crime here he alone should bare the brunt of prosecution, not the entire administration. That's what the liberal media like the Washington Post, NY Times, LA TIMES, and others wants, to have Trump removed from office that's the bottom line. Some of us aren't buying the song and dance of the liberal press.
More White House News, and national headlines click here
NEWS NOTEBOOK:
WH: Joint Press Conference w/ Prime Minister Netanyahu
https://www.whitehouse.gov/featured-videos/video/2017/02/15/joint-press-conference-w-prime-minister-netanyahu
Tuesday, February 14, 2017
UN NEWS CENTER: Opening remarks at the World Government Summit António Guterres
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It’s an enormous pleasure and an enormous honor to be here. I am very grateful to your Highness [Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum] for your very kind invitation.
If one looks at today’s governance problems at the country level, between countries or at multilateral governance in the world, we face a terrible lack of trust. Lack of trust between peoples, between governments and political establishment. Lack of trust between countries and lack of trust in relation to governance in global multilateral institutions.
Looking at country level, it is clear that globalization has been an enormous progress, complete with technological development, globalization brought a huge increase in wealth, a reduction in absolute poverty in our world, improved welfare in general, but globalization had its losers. We have the rust belts of this world. Lots of people who feel they were left behind and that the political establishments of their countries have not taken care of them. On the other hand, we see the inability to handle problems relating to the movements of people, to migration, refugees and then linkage that is made to terrorism, the feeling of insecurity and anxiety. Also, this sense that governments are not taking good care or being able to handle it properly.
We see youth, youth that is the potential of mankind. But, in many countries that have problems in relation to the capacity to find hope, to find jobs, even if they are educated, creating enormous frustrations. All this generates, in a context where also political systems have not been able to adapt to the new changes in the communication and information technologies, this has generated a gap between public opinion, societies, and governments. That is one of the factors, today, that undermines governance. And then, if we associate it, in certain societies, with corruption and other problems, we understand that we have a serious problem to handle.
Now, it is clear that reform is needed to reconcile people with political establishments; political establishment need to adapt to these technologies in information and communication; need to empower citizens and empower young people. I am a strong believer in a German philosopher, [Jurgen] Habermas, who said: “the key element of democracy is the permanent intercommunication between the political society and the civil society and the fact that the civil society influences the decision making process in the political society."
see full statement: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/speeches/2017-02-13/secretary-general%E2%80%99s-remarks-world-government-summit
Related story
In Dubai, UN chief addresses deficit of trust between governments, citizens and institutions
13 February 2017 – The world faces a “terrible lack of trust,” United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said today addressing the World Government Summit in the Emirati city of Dubai, and called for reconciliation between people, their governments and global multilateral institutions.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56162#.WKMsUfkrIps
For more world news headlines click here
It’s an enormous pleasure and an enormous honor to be here. I am very grateful to your Highness [Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum] for your very kind invitation.
If one looks at today’s governance problems at the country level, between countries or at multilateral governance in the world, we face a terrible lack of trust. Lack of trust between peoples, between governments and political establishment. Lack of trust between countries and lack of trust in relation to governance in global multilateral institutions.
Looking at country level, it is clear that globalization has been an enormous progress, complete with technological development, globalization brought a huge increase in wealth, a reduction in absolute poverty in our world, improved welfare in general, but globalization had its losers. We have the rust belts of this world. Lots of people who feel they were left behind and that the political establishments of their countries have not taken care of them. On the other hand, we see the inability to handle problems relating to the movements of people, to migration, refugees and then linkage that is made to terrorism, the feeling of insecurity and anxiety. Also, this sense that governments are not taking good care or being able to handle it properly.
We see youth, youth that is the potential of mankind. But, in many countries that have problems in relation to the capacity to find hope, to find jobs, even if they are educated, creating enormous frustrations. All this generates, in a context where also political systems have not been able to adapt to the new changes in the communication and information technologies, this has generated a gap between public opinion, societies, and governments. That is one of the factors, today, that undermines governance. And then, if we associate it, in certain societies, with corruption and other problems, we understand that we have a serious problem to handle.
Now, it is clear that reform is needed to reconcile people with political establishments; political establishment need to adapt to these technologies in information and communication; need to empower citizens and empower young people. I am a strong believer in a German philosopher, [Jurgen] Habermas, who said: “the key element of democracy is the permanent intercommunication between the political society and the civil society and the fact that the civil society influences the decision making process in the political society."
see full statement: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/speeches/2017-02-13/secretary-general%E2%80%99s-remarks-world-government-summit
Related story
In Dubai, UN chief addresses deficit of trust between governments, citizens and institutions
13 February 2017 – The world faces a “terrible lack of trust,” United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said today addressing the World Government Summit in the Emirati city of Dubai, and called for reconciliation between people, their governments and global multilateral institutions.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56162#.WKMsUfkrIps
For more world news headlines click here
Monday, February 13, 2017
WA DFI: Investor Bulletin - Alternative Mutual Funds Are Not Typical Mutual Funds
An alert from The SEC’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy
Alternative mutual funds (sometimes called alt funds or liquid alts) are publicly offered, SEC-registered mutual funds that hold non-traditional investments or use complex investment and trading strategies. Investors considering alt funds should be aware of their unique characteristics and risks.
Investment Objectives: Alternative mutual funds include a wide range of investment objectives designed to meet various investment needs. Many alt funds try to minimize swings in the value of their investments and reduce risks by spreading their investments among different asset types and/or using complex trading strategies. Some alt funds seek to generate above-market returns relative to other mutual funds that have a similar benchmark.
Investments: Unlike traditional mutual funds, alt funds often seek to accomplish their investment objectives by investing in non-traditional investments. For example, alt funds might invest in assets such as global real estate, start-up companies, or commodities such as gold or oil. These investments can sometimes offer greater diversification or different returns than more traditional investments such as stocks, bonds, and cash.
Strategies: Alt funds generally use more complex investment and trading strategies than more traditional mutual funds. For example, alt funds may sell stocks short, use derivatives, or follow "absolute return" or “market neutral” strategies that seek positive returns even when the stock markets fall. However, these strategies may result in higher costs and additional risks than traditionally managed funds.
How Do Alternative Mutual Funds Compare with Hedge Funds?
Alternative mutual funds often have similar investments and strategies to those of hedge funds, and thus alternative mutual funds may sometimes be marketed or sold as “hedge fund-like” options for retail investors. However, alt funds differ from hedge funds in several important ways.
Regulatory safeguards: As mutual funds, alt funds are regulated under the Investment Company Act of 1940, which provides certain safeguards. These protections include limits on illiquid investments, restrictions on borrowings and debt, and the requirement to allow investors to sell their shares at any time. Hedge funds are not required to follow these regulations, and therefore may pursue non-traditional strategies and investments without the same regulatory safeguards.
Open to the public: Any investor may purchase shares of alternative mutual funds. In contrast, hedge funds shares can only be purchased by “accredited investors” or “qualified purchasers” who are required to have a minimum level of income or assets. This is designed to limit investors in hedge funds to those who are financially sophisticated and generally can bear the risks of investing in funds that are not subject to the regulatory safeguards.
Potentially Lower Fees: Investors in alternative mutual funds generally pay lower fees than hedge fund investors. Many alternative mutual funds have an annual fee equal to two percent or less of the fund’s assets. In contrast, investors in hedge funds generally pay advisory fees at a similar level plus a percentage of any profits earned. For example, one fee structure is the so-called 2/20 meaning an advisory fee which is generally equal to 2 percent of the fund’s assets, plus a 20 percent fee of any profits earned.
Read more: http://www.dfi.wa.gov/consumer/alerts/investor-bulletin-alternative-mutual-funds-are-not-typical-mutual-funds
For more business and finance news click here
Alternative mutual funds (sometimes called alt funds or liquid alts) are publicly offered, SEC-registered mutual funds that hold non-traditional investments or use complex investment and trading strategies. Investors considering alt funds should be aware of their unique characteristics and risks.
Investment Objectives: Alternative mutual funds include a wide range of investment objectives designed to meet various investment needs. Many alt funds try to minimize swings in the value of their investments and reduce risks by spreading their investments among different asset types and/or using complex trading strategies. Some alt funds seek to generate above-market returns relative to other mutual funds that have a similar benchmark.
Investments: Unlike traditional mutual funds, alt funds often seek to accomplish their investment objectives by investing in non-traditional investments. For example, alt funds might invest in assets such as global real estate, start-up companies, or commodities such as gold or oil. These investments can sometimes offer greater diversification or different returns than more traditional investments such as stocks, bonds, and cash.
Strategies: Alt funds generally use more complex investment and trading strategies than more traditional mutual funds. For example, alt funds may sell stocks short, use derivatives, or follow "absolute return" or “market neutral” strategies that seek positive returns even when the stock markets fall. However, these strategies may result in higher costs and additional risks than traditionally managed funds.
How Do Alternative Mutual Funds Compare with Hedge Funds?
Alternative mutual funds often have similar investments and strategies to those of hedge funds, and thus alternative mutual funds may sometimes be marketed or sold as “hedge fund-like” options for retail investors. However, alt funds differ from hedge funds in several important ways.
Regulatory safeguards: As mutual funds, alt funds are regulated under the Investment Company Act of 1940, which provides certain safeguards. These protections include limits on illiquid investments, restrictions on borrowings and debt, and the requirement to allow investors to sell their shares at any time. Hedge funds are not required to follow these regulations, and therefore may pursue non-traditional strategies and investments without the same regulatory safeguards.
Open to the public: Any investor may purchase shares of alternative mutual funds. In contrast, hedge funds shares can only be purchased by “accredited investors” or “qualified purchasers” who are required to have a minimum level of income or assets. This is designed to limit investors in hedge funds to those who are financially sophisticated and generally can bear the risks of investing in funds that are not subject to the regulatory safeguards.
Potentially Lower Fees: Investors in alternative mutual funds generally pay lower fees than hedge fund investors. Many alternative mutual funds have an annual fee equal to two percent or less of the fund’s assets. In contrast, investors in hedge funds generally pay advisory fees at a similar level plus a percentage of any profits earned. For example, one fee structure is the so-called 2/20 meaning an advisory fee which is generally equal to 2 percent of the fund’s assets, plus a 20 percent fee of any profits earned.
Read more: http://www.dfi.wa.gov/consumer/alerts/investor-bulletin-alternative-mutual-funds-are-not-typical-mutual-funds
For more business and finance news click here
Saturday, February 11, 2017
PT. TOWNSEND SAYS: LET THEM IN! OKAY, PORT TOWNSEND, LET THEM IN YOUR HOMES!
City of Port Townsend highlight agenda item: Declare the City of Port Townsend to be a Sanctuary City
http://cityofpt.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=872&meta_id=136814
See full agenda: http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=872
A RESOLUTION affirming the City of Seattle as a Welcoming City that promotes policies and programs to foster inclusion for all, and serves its residents regardless of their immigration or refugee status, race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, disability, homelessness, low-income or veteran status, and reaffirming the City’s continuing commitment to advocate and support the wellbeing of all residents
Editorial Comment: In a word, insane! These people are just wanting to stick it to Trump. I didn't see any of this during Obama was president when he did the same thing. All I see Port Townsend doing here is just going along with the crowd of open border zealots, just make themselves look good. The question is will any of these council members open up their own homes to these Iranian, Iraqi, Syrian refugees? Bet, you dimes to doughnuts they won't. So, just how welcoming the Port Townsend council is that's the question, let them in your house council!?
Bet, City of Port Angeles will be next to propose an idiotic move.
For more local meetings and commentaries click here
http://cityofpt.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=872&meta_id=136814
See full agenda: http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=872
A RESOLUTION affirming the City of Seattle as a Welcoming City that promotes policies and programs to foster inclusion for all, and serves its residents regardless of their immigration or refugee status, race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, disability, homelessness, low-income or veteran status, and reaffirming the City’s continuing commitment to advocate and support the wellbeing of all residents
Editorial Comment: In a word, insane! These people are just wanting to stick it to Trump. I didn't see any of this during Obama was president when he did the same thing. All I see Port Townsend doing here is just going along with the crowd of open border zealots, just make themselves look good. The question is will any of these council members open up their own homes to these Iranian, Iraqi, Syrian refugees? Bet, you dimes to doughnuts they won't. So, just how welcoming the Port Townsend council is that's the question, let them in your house council!?
Bet, City of Port Angeles will be next to propose an idiotic move.
For more local meetings and commentaries click here
Friday, February 10, 2017
PATTY'S RANTS ON TRUMP'S APPOINTMENTS, AND HEALTH POLICY
Sen. Murray to President Trump: Ripping Apart Health Care System Would Hurt Washington’s Efforts to Fight Opioid Epidemic
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) joined Senate colleagues in writing to President Donald Trump warning that repealing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) with no replacement would pull the rug out from under local communities working to combat the opioid epidemic, and could endanger millions of Americans just as they are getting treatment. A repeal threatens to cut $5.5 billion in federal dollars that each year go toward treating Americans battling opioid addiction through the Medicaid expansion or the ACA marketplaces. From 2014 – 2015, drug overdose rates in Washington state increased 10.5 percent and have surpassed car crashes as the number one cause of accidental death. Over the past year, Sen. Murray has met with families, health officials, and law enforcement in communities across Washington state, including Seattle, Bellingham, Vancouver, the Tri-Cities, Yakima, and Spokane, about the urgent need to address the opioid epidemic.
“The consequences of repealing the Affordable Care Act are dire for all Americans, but they are especially calamitous for Americans living with a mental illness, a substance use disorder, or both,” the Senators wrote. “Repealing this law will cut billions of dollars in funding, kick tens of millions of Americans off of their health insurance, and saddle providers with hundreds of millions of dollars more in uncompensated care.”
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=55414DEF-61DF-4F33-8CAD-1C8150C5223E
Joined by Fast Food Workers and Advocates, Sen. Murray Slams President Trump’s Labor Pick as “Uniquely Unqualified”
(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate labor committee, today held a press conference in the U.S. Capitol with fast food workers and advocates to highlight the many disqualifying aspects of the record of Andrew Puzder, President Trump’s nominee for U.S. Secretary of Labor. Puzder’s history of squeezing workers as the CEO of CKE Restaurants and his steady opposition to policies that would help workers, such as increasing the minimum wage and expanding overtime pay, raise serious questions about his ability to lead the U.S. Department of Labor.
“Puzder has spoken out against raising the minimum wage and against efforts to help more workers get overtime pay. He thinks robots would be more convenient for employers than actual workers, because robots never get sick or need a lunch break… and Mr. Puzder’s vocal defense of his deeply offensive ads—and so much more about his background—raise serious questions in my mind about his ability to represent the rights of women in the workplace, as any Secretary of Labor absolutely must be able to do,” said Senator Murray.
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=8BADAB2F-ACD1-414B-9130-223EFCC1B66C
Sen. Murray to Vote NO on Congressman Price for Health and Human Services Secretary: Cites Serious Ethical Concerns, Long Record Seeking to Undermine Women’s Health, and His Plans to Leave Millions of Americans, Including More Than 750,000 People in Washington State, Without Health Care
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) delivered remarks on the Senate floor calling on Senate Republicans to stand with families nationwide and vote NO on the nomination of Rep. Tom Price (R-GA) for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). Senate Republicans scheduled a final vote on the nomination of Rep. Price despite unanswered significant questions about his qualifications and ethical conduct. Senator Murray also has serious concerns about Rep. Price’s troubling plans for our health care system and health priorities crucial to women, families, and seniors nationwide. Congressman Price is a leading proponent of rushing to dismantle our health care system by repealing the Affordable Care Act, voucherize Medicare, and gutting Medicaid.
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=4E03580D-FE96-4209-B1EE-CCC5DCB2D7F0
In other Congressional news, and local stories making headlines Click here
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) joined Senate colleagues in writing to President Donald Trump warning that repealing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) with no replacement would pull the rug out from under local communities working to combat the opioid epidemic, and could endanger millions of Americans just as they are getting treatment. A repeal threatens to cut $5.5 billion in federal dollars that each year go toward treating Americans battling opioid addiction through the Medicaid expansion or the ACA marketplaces. From 2014 – 2015, drug overdose rates in Washington state increased 10.5 percent and have surpassed car crashes as the number one cause of accidental death. Over the past year, Sen. Murray has met with families, health officials, and law enforcement in communities across Washington state, including Seattle, Bellingham, Vancouver, the Tri-Cities, Yakima, and Spokane, about the urgent need to address the opioid epidemic.
“The consequences of repealing the Affordable Care Act are dire for all Americans, but they are especially calamitous for Americans living with a mental illness, a substance use disorder, or both,” the Senators wrote. “Repealing this law will cut billions of dollars in funding, kick tens of millions of Americans off of their health insurance, and saddle providers with hundreds of millions of dollars more in uncompensated care.”
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=55414DEF-61DF-4F33-8CAD-1C8150C5223E
Joined by Fast Food Workers and Advocates, Sen. Murray Slams President Trump’s Labor Pick as “Uniquely Unqualified”
(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate labor committee, today held a press conference in the U.S. Capitol with fast food workers and advocates to highlight the many disqualifying aspects of the record of Andrew Puzder, President Trump’s nominee for U.S. Secretary of Labor. Puzder’s history of squeezing workers as the CEO of CKE Restaurants and his steady opposition to policies that would help workers, such as increasing the minimum wage and expanding overtime pay, raise serious questions about his ability to lead the U.S. Department of Labor.
“Puzder has spoken out against raising the minimum wage and against efforts to help more workers get overtime pay. He thinks robots would be more convenient for employers than actual workers, because robots never get sick or need a lunch break… and Mr. Puzder’s vocal defense of his deeply offensive ads—and so much more about his background—raise serious questions in my mind about his ability to represent the rights of women in the workplace, as any Secretary of Labor absolutely must be able to do,” said Senator Murray.
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=8BADAB2F-ACD1-414B-9130-223EFCC1B66C
Sen. Murray to Vote NO on Congressman Price for Health and Human Services Secretary: Cites Serious Ethical Concerns, Long Record Seeking to Undermine Women’s Health, and His Plans to Leave Millions of Americans, Including More Than 750,000 People in Washington State, Without Health Care
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) delivered remarks on the Senate floor calling on Senate Republicans to stand with families nationwide and vote NO on the nomination of Rep. Tom Price (R-GA) for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). Senate Republicans scheduled a final vote on the nomination of Rep. Price despite unanswered significant questions about his qualifications and ethical conduct. Senator Murray also has serious concerns about Rep. Price’s troubling plans for our health care system and health priorities crucial to women, families, and seniors nationwide. Congressman Price is a leading proponent of rushing to dismantle our health care system by repealing the Affordable Care Act, voucherize Medicare, and gutting Medicaid.
http://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=4E03580D-FE96-4209-B1EE-CCC5DCB2D7F0
In other Congressional news, and local stories making headlines Click here
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