First of all making jokes about assassinating the current or any former president, and posting it on facebook is about as smart as, jumping out of a plane without a parachute! But, in the case of even making jokes about assassination can carry prison time for most folks, the Secret Service takes these matters seriously. It's been a very disturbing trend happening on the pages of social media outlets, such as facebook.
Equally disturbing of identity theft being done by hackers, who invade facebook accounts stealing material from accounts, and then posting trash talk on facebook using a stolen account names. So, given the fact that many facebook subscribers have been hacked, one question comes to mind was this another case of facebook trolls doing dirty tricks on this city council candidate? Another question comes up, how did the Peninsula Daily News get wind of these postings in the first place? This whole thing is a little too convenient wouldn't you say that these postings become relevant now that Wojnowski is running for office? Why not several months earlier?
Related stories...
Peninsula Daily News: Port Angeles City Council candidate says his account was hacked
http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/politics/port-angeles-city-council-candidate-says-his-account-was-hacked/
Quotes: " A City Council candidate whose Facebook page included a March 2013 posting that joked about assassinating then-President Barack Obama said last week his account was hacked. Artur Wojnowski, a candidate for Port Angeles City Council Position 3, suspended his account on Friday. He disavowed the entry and several other 2013 posts he said were not his."
Editorial note: When this story was posted in the PDN you saw comments from readers already spewing out phrases that this guy is a racist, without knowing all the facts. Some say he already lost the election before it even started. Sounds to me the PDN, and whoever leaked the information was bent on character assassination.
The Lighter Side of Assassination?
In the wake of Kathy Griffin holding up a mock severed head of President Trump, it's disturbingly obvious that murderous thoughts about our leaders are now considered by the left to be light, humorous fare, a balm for their anxieties.----CNSN NEWS
Editorial Note: Sounds to me that Griffin found out posing for a picture that was suggestive like that wasn't too funny. Now she is playing the victim. But, what about the photographer, he isn't sorry about taking that picture, anyone cared to investigate him?
How to tell if your Facebook has been hacked (and what to do)---CNET
There are several different ways hackers use a breached Facebook account. Automatic logins through Facebook allow hackers access to many different site accounts once they've taken over your Facebook. Spammers also hack Facebook accounts to gain access to your following. From your profile, a hacker can additionally gather a lot of personal information about you that can be used to steal your identity.
Peninsula Daily News: Employee sues top Clallam prosecutor, alleging sexual harassment
Clallam County Prosecuting Attorney Mark Nichols has been sued by an office manager who claims that she was sexually harassed for two years. Tina Hendrickson filed a complaint and demand for jury trial June 1 in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington in Tacoma.
Editorial note: Another example of making quit judgements, and character assassination even before a trial? I imagine there are people already passing judgements on this without knowing all the facts.
Character Assassination, can be just as bad as the other form of assassination, impugning someone's character without all the facts puts a cloud of doubt over that person, which they have to walk around with. I think people should refrain making rash judgement calls before all the facts are made known. Not saying I'm perfect by no means, sometimes I let my emotions run wild, and make snappy judgement calls before knowing all the facts, but we strife to overcome using our emotional responses to pass judgement on others.
WHAT'S HAPPENING NEXT WEEK!
Clallam County Work session agenda highlight item:
Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe presentation regarding a project to realign portions of Chicken Coop and Zaccardo Roads The Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe (JSKD would like to realign portions of the Chicken Coop and Ziccardo Roads into a single perpendicular intersection to SR 101.
The JSKT is also working with WSDOT to make several improvements to SR101 such as turn pockets and acceleration lanes adjacent to this new intersection. Parametrix Engineering is performing design and consulting services for the JSKT and has prepared several exhibits illustrating the proposed project and would like to present this to the BOCC so they have an understanding of the scope and benefits of this project. At some point this project will require future conveyances of new R/W from the JSKT to the County and acceptance of these new portions of these roads by the BOCC. Also vacation of the now unused portions of both Chicken Coop Road and Ziccardo Road will need to be done in accordance with State RCW's and County ordinances.
see details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1058&meta_id=10586
See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1058
Clallam County regular session on Tuesday, agenda item highlight item;
Notice that the following Supplemental Appropriations will be adopted by Resolution on June 27
Notíce is hereby given Clallam County will adopt by Resolution of the Board, supplemental budget approprÍations in the following funds pursuant to RCW 36.40.100, at 10 a.m. on June 27, 20L7 in the CommÍssíoners' Meeting Room (160) of the Clallam County Courthouse.
Non-Departmental, Opportunity Fund - Due to Carlsborg sewer project construction delay in 2016 additional construction costs and revenue reimbursements were not included in20L7 budget/$1,395,524
Public Works, Carlsborg Sewer Project
. The Carlsborg sewer project construction was delayed in 2016 making it necessary to carry forward estimated expenses and revenue in the 2017 budget; amount reflects adjustment for final amount due from the Opportunity Fund for the pass-through of the Publíc Works Trust Fund construction loan $1,395,524
¡ Side sewer connections revenue for the Carlsborg sewer project/9238 Copies of the budget change forms may be viewed at the office of the Board of Clallam County Commissioners from B a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
See full details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=327&meta_id=10627
See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=327
In other local and regional meetings for next week....
Sequim City Council agenda highlight item: Bell Hill Estates preliminary major subdivision
See full agenda: http://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1651
Jefferson County Commission meeting agenda highlight item: AGREEMENT re: Jefferson County Central Services Director; In the Amount of $9,169.20 per month; Jefferson County Administrator; Mark McCauley
See full agenda: http://test.co.jefferson.wa.us/WEBLINKEXTERNAL/0/edoc/1691263/A061217.pdf
City of Forks agenda highlight item: Resolution amending airport improvement project.
See full agenda: http://forkswashington.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Agenda-2017-6-12.pdf
Daily Bible verse: bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.----Colossians 3:13 NKJV
Matthew 7:13-14 NKJV
Free bible studies (WBS)
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/
Learn english using the bible as text (WEI)
http://www.worldenglishinstitute.org/
(Join us in worship every Sunday starting at 10:30AM Church of Christ)
http://www.pacofc.org/index.php
Saturday, June 10, 2017
Friday, June 9, 2017
Inslee signs executive order to support safe testing and operation of autonomous vehicles
Self-driving cars may sound futuristic, but Washington state is leading the way right now on developing autonomous vehicles that are safe and could help save lives, reduce carbon emissions and create jobs.
Gov. Jay Inslee today signed an executive order to support safe testing and operation of autonomous vehicles (AVs). The executive order establishes an interagency workgroup to work with local, regional and federal officials, stakeholders and industry groups, recommend changes or clarifications to state polices and rules about AVs, and examine other emerging automated transportation technology. The order also enables pilot programs for organizations developing AV equipment and technology.
The governor signed the executive order at Echodyne, a radar technology startup in Bellevue that is working to ensure AVs stay safe and affordable.
“Washington state is already a leader in autonomous vehicle technology. We are an early-adopter that welcomes innovation and the safe testing and operation of AVs,” Inslee said. “AVs could help save countless lives, reclaim time spent in traffic, improve mobility and be an important tool in our efforts to combat climate change.”
Safety of these vehicles is a top consideration for the governor and for the companies developing this technology.
“The governor’s executive order helps prepare us for the future by supporting the safe testing and operation of autonomous vehicle technology,” said Chief John Batiste of the Washington State Patrol.
“AVs could dramatically improve traffic safety by reducing highway fatalities,” added Darrin Grondel, director of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. “Each year, 33,000 people die in traffic collisions in the United States, and 94 percent of those crashes are linked to human error.”
press release issued June 7th, read full article
https://medium.com/wagovernor/hands-off-the-wheel-c414fa6b11bb
NEWS NOTEBOOK
Kilmer Statement on No Health Insurers Filing Plans for Grays Harbor for 2018
Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) released the following statement after no health insurers filed plans for Washington state’s 2018 individual health insurance market in Grays Harbor County. The move would leave more than 2,000 people in the county currently enrolled in the individual market without insurance.
“For years, I have been working to get Congress to change how healthcare is provided in rural communities because this matters to people,” said Kilmer. “When Congress or the President play politics and destabilize the insurance market leading to today's news, that hurts people. It hurts folks in our region in need of treatment, or who want to take their kids to the doctor, or who are concerned about the cost of the treatment and medication they need. While I wasn't in Congress when the Affordable Care Act was passed, I’ll keep working to get folks to stop playing politics and focus on improving the system so people in rural areas have access to affordable, quality coverage.”
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-no-health-insurers-filing-plans-for-grays-harbor-for-2018_
For more state news headlines see page 2
Thursday, June 8, 2017
SEN. PATTY MURRAY: Proposed cuts particularly cruel in light of recent report finding that nearly 12,000 people in Seattle and King County are currently experiencing homelessness
press release issued June 7th
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=A7319C1B-DE22-4247-A10B-509C9947217B
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior Democrat on the Senate Appropriations subcommittee overseeing housing, questioned Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Sec. Ben Carson about President Trump’s proposal to slash 15 percent from the housing budget, including programs supporting critical efforts in Washington state to eradicate homelessness and increase access to affordable housing. Sen. Murray questioned Sec. Carson on HUD’s misplaced budget priorities in light of a recent report finding homelessness and housing insecurity on the rise in Washington state, asking Sec. Carson directly about HUD’s plan for combatting homelessness in Washington state and nationwide in addition to requesting clarity on his position regarding the effectiveness of Housing First interventions that prioritize moving homeless families and individuals into permanent homes as swiftly as possible.
Sen. Murray has been a consistent champion for HUD programs that work to get people off the street and into safe, appropriate housing, including McKinney Vento, Section 8 vouchers, and HUD-VASH, helping to restart the initiative for homeless veterans in 2008. Sen. Murray questioned Sec. Carson about his budget’s proposal to slash funding for Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) that reduce homelessness across Washington state. In addition to questions on homelessness, Sen. Murray also asked Sec. Carson to explain the Department’s position on several housing issues impacting Washington state families, including HUD’s formula for calculating Section 8 housing that must account for rising housing prices in cities like Vancouver, Tacoma, and Seattle, and proposed cuts to programs supporting affordable housing and offering rental assistance.
Senators Murray, Cantwell Oppose Trump Administration’s Proposal to Auction Off DOE Transmission Assets
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, in a letter to U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and a bipartisan group of Western senators voiced their strong opposition to a provision in the President’s Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Request to auction off the transmission assets of the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) and other Power Marketing Administrations (PMAs) through the Department of Energy.
“[Bonneville Power Administration and other PMAs] have provided reliable and affordable electric service and are crucially important to rural communities in our states. Sale of the PMAs transmission facilities would not advance the President’s infrastructure objectives. In fact, privatization of existing assets could affect opportunities for new infrastructure investments. Moreover, any private entity buying PMA assets will want to recover their investment. The resulting rate increases would take money out of the pockets of consumers and businesses in our states,” the Senators said in their letter to Secretary Perry.
The letter concludes by stating, “There are improvements that can and should be made to the operations of some PMAs, but the dismantling of them is simply not sound governmental policy. Instead, we look forward to working with you to make needed investments in PMA infrastructure and ensuring the future value of this important federal asset.”---press release issued June 7th
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=14F772DB-89B7-417B-87FB-6960F539ACE4
While VA works on a long-term plan to reduce wait times and improve veteran care, the Trump Administration is pushing provisions that would weaken the entire VA system
(Washington, D.C.) – Today in a Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing, Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) questioned Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Dr. David Shulkin about whether he supports Trump Administration initiatives that would weaken VA in the coming years, moving the agency toward privatization. Sen. Murray, a senior member of the Committee and the daughter of a World War II veteran, is staunchly opposed to dismantling VA and has urged her colleagues in Congress to support a series of reforms to strengthen veteran care. In today’s hearing, Sen. Murray asked Secretary Shulkin about particular provisions that would destabilize the system.---press release issued June 7th
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=8D4FEAB1-9AF9-429B-AB3B-13F6CBBAD48D
For more news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC, and advocacy news stories see page 2
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=A7319C1B-DE22-4247-A10B-509C9947217B
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior Democrat on the Senate Appropriations subcommittee overseeing housing, questioned Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Sec. Ben Carson about President Trump’s proposal to slash 15 percent from the housing budget, including programs supporting critical efforts in Washington state to eradicate homelessness and increase access to affordable housing. Sen. Murray questioned Sec. Carson on HUD’s misplaced budget priorities in light of a recent report finding homelessness and housing insecurity on the rise in Washington state, asking Sec. Carson directly about HUD’s plan for combatting homelessness in Washington state and nationwide in addition to requesting clarity on his position regarding the effectiveness of Housing First interventions that prioritize moving homeless families and individuals into permanent homes as swiftly as possible.
Sen. Murray has been a consistent champion for HUD programs that work to get people off the street and into safe, appropriate housing, including McKinney Vento, Section 8 vouchers, and HUD-VASH, helping to restart the initiative for homeless veterans in 2008. Sen. Murray questioned Sec. Carson about his budget’s proposal to slash funding for Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) that reduce homelessness across Washington state. In addition to questions on homelessness, Sen. Murray also asked Sec. Carson to explain the Department’s position on several housing issues impacting Washington state families, including HUD’s formula for calculating Section 8 housing that must account for rising housing prices in cities like Vancouver, Tacoma, and Seattle, and proposed cuts to programs supporting affordable housing and offering rental assistance.
Senators Murray, Cantwell Oppose Trump Administration’s Proposal to Auction Off DOE Transmission Assets
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, in a letter to U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and a bipartisan group of Western senators voiced their strong opposition to a provision in the President’s Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Request to auction off the transmission assets of the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) and other Power Marketing Administrations (PMAs) through the Department of Energy.
“[Bonneville Power Administration and other PMAs] have provided reliable and affordable electric service and are crucially important to rural communities in our states. Sale of the PMAs transmission facilities would not advance the President’s infrastructure objectives. In fact, privatization of existing assets could affect opportunities for new infrastructure investments. Moreover, any private entity buying PMA assets will want to recover their investment. The resulting rate increases would take money out of the pockets of consumers and businesses in our states,” the Senators said in their letter to Secretary Perry.
The letter concludes by stating, “There are improvements that can and should be made to the operations of some PMAs, but the dismantling of them is simply not sound governmental policy. Instead, we look forward to working with you to make needed investments in PMA infrastructure and ensuring the future value of this important federal asset.”---press release issued June 7th
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=14F772DB-89B7-417B-87FB-6960F539ACE4
While VA works on a long-term plan to reduce wait times and improve veteran care, the Trump Administration is pushing provisions that would weaken the entire VA system
(Washington, D.C.) – Today in a Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing, Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) questioned Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Dr. David Shulkin about whether he supports Trump Administration initiatives that would weaken VA in the coming years, moving the agency toward privatization. Sen. Murray, a senior member of the Committee and the daughter of a World War II veteran, is staunchly opposed to dismantling VA and has urged her colleagues in Congress to support a series of reforms to strengthen veteran care. In today’s hearing, Sen. Murray asked Secretary Shulkin about particular provisions that would destabilize the system.---press release issued June 7th
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=8D4FEAB1-9AF9-429B-AB3B-13F6CBBAD48D
For more news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC, and advocacy news stories see page 2
Wednesday, June 7, 2017
EPA to Extend Deadline for 2015 Ozone NAAQS Area Designations
press release issued June 6th
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-extend-deadline-2015-ozone-naaqs-area-designations
WASHINGTON – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt sent a letter to governors today to inform them of EPA’s efforts related to the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ozone promulgated in October 2015. EPA is extending the deadline for promulgating initial area designations, by one year, for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
States have made tremendous progress and significant investment cleaning up the air. We will continue to work with states to ensure they are on a path to compliance,” said Administrator Scott Pruitt.
The National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for ground-level ozone is an outdoor air regulation under the Clean Air Act. As part of the process to determine what areas of the country are able to meet the current air quality standards, states are currently submitting their proposals for area designations under the 70 parts per billion (ppb) standard, which was lowered from 75 ppb in 2015. Areas designated as being in “nonattainment” of the standard face consequences, including: increased regulatory burdens, restrictions on infrastructure investment, and increased costs to businesses.
EPA is giving states more time to develop air quality plans and EPA is looking at providing greater flexibility to states as they develop their plans. And, pursuant to the language in the recently-enacted FY2017 Omnibus funding bill, Administrator Pruitt is establishing an Ozone Cooperative Compliance Task Force to develop additional flexibilities for states to comply with the ozone standard.
Additionally, the Agency is taking time to better understand some lingering, complicated issues so that air attainment decisions can be based on the latest and greatest information. This additional time will also provide the agency time to review the 2015 ozone NAAQS, prior to taking this initial implementation step.
Although the new ozone standard was set on October 1, 2015, there remains a host of complex issues that could undermine associated compliance efforts by states and localities. The Agency is evaluating these issues, primarily focused on:
Fully understanding the role of background ozone levels;
Appropriately accounting for international transport,
And, timely consideration of exceptional events demonstrations.
“We share the goal of clean air, a robust economy and stronger, healthier communities. We are committed to working with states and local officials to effectively implement the ozone standard in a manner that is supportive of air quality improvement efforts without interfering with local decisions or impeding economic growth,” said Administrator Pruitt.
Since 1980, total emissions of the six principal air pollutants have dropped by 63 percent and ozone levels have declined by 33 percent. Despite the continued improvement of air quality, costs associated with compliance of the ozone NAAQS have significantly increased.
related story: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING …About The EPA’S Decision To Delay Implementation of the 2015 Ozone Standards
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/what-they-are-saying-about-epas-decision-delay-implementation-2015-ozone-standards
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-extend-deadline-2015-ozone-naaqs-area-designations
WASHINGTON – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt sent a letter to governors today to inform them of EPA’s efforts related to the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ozone promulgated in October 2015. EPA is extending the deadline for promulgating initial area designations, by one year, for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
States have made tremendous progress and significant investment cleaning up the air. We will continue to work with states to ensure they are on a path to compliance,” said Administrator Scott Pruitt.
The National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for ground-level ozone is an outdoor air regulation under the Clean Air Act. As part of the process to determine what areas of the country are able to meet the current air quality standards, states are currently submitting their proposals for area designations under the 70 parts per billion (ppb) standard, which was lowered from 75 ppb in 2015. Areas designated as being in “nonattainment” of the standard face consequences, including: increased regulatory burdens, restrictions on infrastructure investment, and increased costs to businesses.
EPA is giving states more time to develop air quality plans and EPA is looking at providing greater flexibility to states as they develop their plans. And, pursuant to the language in the recently-enacted FY2017 Omnibus funding bill, Administrator Pruitt is establishing an Ozone Cooperative Compliance Task Force to develop additional flexibilities for states to comply with the ozone standard.
Additionally, the Agency is taking time to better understand some lingering, complicated issues so that air attainment decisions can be based on the latest and greatest information. This additional time will also provide the agency time to review the 2015 ozone NAAQS, prior to taking this initial implementation step.
Although the new ozone standard was set on October 1, 2015, there remains a host of complex issues that could undermine associated compliance efforts by states and localities. The Agency is evaluating these issues, primarily focused on:
Fully understanding the role of background ozone levels;
Appropriately accounting for international transport,
And, timely consideration of exceptional events demonstrations.
“We share the goal of clean air, a robust economy and stronger, healthier communities. We are committed to working with states and local officials to effectively implement the ozone standard in a manner that is supportive of air quality improvement efforts without interfering with local decisions or impeding economic growth,” said Administrator Pruitt.
Since 1980, total emissions of the six principal air pollutants have dropped by 63 percent and ozone levels have declined by 33 percent. Despite the continued improvement of air quality, costs associated with compliance of the ozone NAAQS have significantly increased.
related story: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING …About The EPA’S Decision To Delay Implementation of the 2015 Ozone Standards
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/what-they-are-saying-about-epas-decision-delay-implementation-2015-ozone-standards
Tuesday, June 6, 2017
UN NEWS CENTER: After 50 years of Israeli occupation, 'now is the time' to create Palestinian state – UN chief
5 June 2017 – Marking 50 years since the start of the 1967 Arab-Israeli war, which resulted in Israel's occupation of the Palestinian Territory, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres today reiterated a call for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56910
Today marks 50 years since the start of the 1967 Arab-Israeli war, which resulted in Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Gaza and the Syrian Golan, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and Syrians.
This occupation has imposed a heavy humanitarian and development burden on the Palestinian people. Among them are generation after generation of Palestinians who have been compelled to grow up and live in ever more crowded refugee camps, many in abject poverty, and with little or no prospect of a better life for their children.
The occupation has shaped the lives of both Palestinians and Israelis. It has fuelled recurring cycles of violence and retribution. Its perpetuation is sending an unmistakable message to generations of Palestinians that their dream of statehood is destined to remain just that, a dream; and to Israelis that their desire for peace, security and regional recognition remains unattainable.
Ending the occupation that began in 1967 and achieving a negotiated two-State outcome is the only way to lay the foundations for enduring peace that meets Israeli security needs and Palestinian aspirations for statehood and sovereignty. It is the only way to achieve the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people.
Now is not the time to give up on this goal. Continued settlement construction and expansion; violence and incitement; and the illicit arms build-up and militant activity in Gaza risk creating a one-State reality that is incompatible with realizing the legitimate national and historic aspirations of both peoples. Now is the time to return to direct negotiations to resolve all final-status issues on the basis of relevant United Nations resolutions, agreements and international law.
Now is the time to end the conflict by establishing an independent Palestinian State, living side by side in peace and security with the State of Israel. Resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will remove a driver of violent extremism and terrorism in the Middle East and open the doors to cooperation, security, prosperity and human rights for all.
In 1947, on the basis of United Nations General Assembly resolution 181, the world recognized the two-State solution and called for the emergence of “independent Arab and Jewish States”. On 14 May 1948, the State of Israel was born. Almost seven decades later, the world still awaits the birth of an independent Palestinian State.
The Secretary-General reiterates his offer to work with all relevant stakeholders to support a genuine peace process.----press release issued June 5th
Related news stories:
NPR: 50 Years On, U.S. Presidents Still Seek Elusive Peace To A 6-Day War
REU: U.S. tells UN rights forum to remove 'chronic anti-Israel bias'
The Trump administration gave formal notice on Tuesday that it is reviewing its participation in the U.N. Human Rights Council and called for reforming the body to eliminate what it called its "chronic anti-Israel bias".
REU: Israeli panel approves West Bank settlement plan: reports
An Israeli panel approved plans on Tuesday for the first new Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank in two decades, Israeli media reports said, drawing Palestinian condemnation and defying repeated international appeals to avoid such measures.
History spotlight: D-DAY
The Western Allies of World War II launched the largest amphibious invasion in history when they assaulted Normandy, located on the northern coast of France, on 6 June 1944. The invaders were able to establish a beachhead as part of Operation Overlord after a successful "D-Day," the first day of the invasion.
Allied land forces came from the United States, Britain, Canada, and Free French forces. In the weeks following the invasion, Polish forces and contingents from Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Greece and the Netherlands participated in the ground campaign; most also provided air and naval support alongside elements of the Royal Australian Air Force, the Royal New Zealand Air Force, and the Royal Norwegian Navy.
The Normandy invasion began with overnight parachute and glider landings, massive air attacks and naval bombardments. In the early morning, amphibious landings on five beaches codenamed Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha and Utah, The United States landing on beaches Omaha and Utah, Great Britain landing on beaches Gold and Sword and Canada landing on Juno. The invasion began and during the evening the remaining elements of the airborne divisions landed. Land forces used on D-Day sailed from bases along the south coast of England, the most important of these being Portsmouth. wikipedia See full article
For more world news and events see page 2
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56910
Continuing Occupation Sends ‘Unmistakable Message’ that Both Palestinian, Israeli Hopes Remain Unattainable, Secretary-General Warns in Anniversary Statement
The following statement by UN Secretary-General António Guterres was issued today:Today marks 50 years since the start of the 1967 Arab-Israeli war, which resulted in Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Gaza and the Syrian Golan, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and Syrians.
This occupation has imposed a heavy humanitarian and development burden on the Palestinian people. Among them are generation after generation of Palestinians who have been compelled to grow up and live in ever more crowded refugee camps, many in abject poverty, and with little or no prospect of a better life for their children.
The occupation has shaped the lives of both Palestinians and Israelis. It has fuelled recurring cycles of violence and retribution. Its perpetuation is sending an unmistakable message to generations of Palestinians that their dream of statehood is destined to remain just that, a dream; and to Israelis that their desire for peace, security and regional recognition remains unattainable.
Ending the occupation that began in 1967 and achieving a negotiated two-State outcome is the only way to lay the foundations for enduring peace that meets Israeli security needs and Palestinian aspirations for statehood and sovereignty. It is the only way to achieve the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people.
Now is not the time to give up on this goal. Continued settlement construction and expansion; violence and incitement; and the illicit arms build-up and militant activity in Gaza risk creating a one-State reality that is incompatible with realizing the legitimate national and historic aspirations of both peoples. Now is the time to return to direct negotiations to resolve all final-status issues on the basis of relevant United Nations resolutions, agreements and international law.
Now is the time to end the conflict by establishing an independent Palestinian State, living side by side in peace and security with the State of Israel. Resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will remove a driver of violent extremism and terrorism in the Middle East and open the doors to cooperation, security, prosperity and human rights for all.
In 1947, on the basis of United Nations General Assembly resolution 181, the world recognized the two-State solution and called for the emergence of “independent Arab and Jewish States”. On 14 May 1948, the State of Israel was born. Almost seven decades later, the world still awaits the birth of an independent Palestinian State.
The Secretary-General reiterates his offer to work with all relevant stakeholders to support a genuine peace process.----press release issued June 5th
Related news stories:
NPR: 50 Years On, U.S. Presidents Still Seek Elusive Peace To A 6-Day War
REU: U.S. tells UN rights forum to remove 'chronic anti-Israel bias'
The Trump administration gave formal notice on Tuesday that it is reviewing its participation in the U.N. Human Rights Council and called for reforming the body to eliminate what it called its "chronic anti-Israel bias".
REU: Israeli panel approves West Bank settlement plan: reports
An Israeli panel approved plans on Tuesday for the first new Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank in two decades, Israeli media reports said, drawing Palestinian condemnation and defying repeated international appeals to avoid such measures.
History spotlight: D-DAY
The Western Allies of World War II launched the largest amphibious invasion in history when they assaulted Normandy, located on the northern coast of France, on 6 June 1944. The invaders were able to establish a beachhead as part of Operation Overlord after a successful "D-Day," the first day of the invasion.
Allied land forces came from the United States, Britain, Canada, and Free French forces. In the weeks following the invasion, Polish forces and contingents from Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Greece and the Netherlands participated in the ground campaign; most also provided air and naval support alongside elements of the Royal Australian Air Force, the Royal New Zealand Air Force, and the Royal Norwegian Navy.
The Normandy invasion began with overnight parachute and glider landings, massive air attacks and naval bombardments. In the early morning, amphibious landings on five beaches codenamed Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha and Utah, The United States landing on beaches Omaha and Utah, Great Britain landing on beaches Gold and Sword and Canada landing on Juno. The invasion began and during the evening the remaining elements of the airborne divisions landed. Land forces used on D-Day sailed from bases along the south coast of England, the most important of these being Portsmouth. wikipedia See full article
For more world news and events see page 2
Monday, June 5, 2017
US COMMERCE DEPT: Trade with China Continues Trend While Comprehensive Economic Dialogue Hopes to Balance Deficits
Press release issued June 2nd:
The trade deficit in goods with China ballooned by 13.8 percent year-over-year while the overall trade deficit increased by 5 percent since March as imports increased slightly and exports declined following the release of the April 2017 International Trade in Goods and Services monthly data by the Department of Commerce.
“While the overall trade deficit continues to grow, it is too soon for the numbers to reflect the recent deal with China and other actions of this Administration is taking to level the balance of trade,” said Secretary Ross. “We look forward to the July 16 deadline which will open up the Chinese market to American beef, liquefied natural gas and other products.”
The U.S. goods and services deficit with China increased 5.4 percent from the fourth quarter of 2016 to the first quarter of 2017 growing from $77.714 billion to $81.901 billion.
The trade deficit widened month-to-month with China from 24.6 billion in March to 27.6 billion in April.
While the trade deficit with China grew, there was improvement in other areas. April exports to South Korea were the highest ever on record, while exports to Japan were the largest since August of 2014.
Year-to-date, the goods and services deficit increased $9.4 billion, or 7.5 percent, from the same period in 2016. Exports increased $38.0 billion or 7.1 percent. Imports increased $47.5 billion or 7.1 percent.
The April increase in the goods and services deficit reflected an increase in the goods deficit of $2.3 billion to $68.4 billion and a decrease in the services surplus of less than $0.1 billion to $20.8 billion.
NEWS NOTEBOOK: UK police name two London attackers, say one investigated before (REU)
LONDON, June 5 (Reuters) - One of the three attackers who killed seven people near London Bridge on Saturday night was previously investigated by British security services but had not been viewed as a serious threat, British police said on Monday.
UN NEWS CENTER: UN chief strongly condemns terrorist attacks in London
4 June 2017 – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned last night's terrorist attacks in London and expressed solidarity with the people and Government of the United Kingdom in the combat against terrorism and violent extremism.
WH: Readout of President Donald J. Trump's Call with Prime Minister Theresa May of the United Kingdom
President Donald J. Trump spoke with Prime Minister Theresa May of the United Kingdom today. The President offered his condolences for the brutal terror attacks on June 3 in central London. He praised the heroic response of police and other first responders and offered the full support of the United States Government in investigating and bringing those responsible for these heinous acts to justice.
(For more business and finance news headlines see page 2)
Sunday, June 4, 2017
WDFW: Anglers can fish for free June 10-11, 2017
OLYMPIA – Each year, thousands of Washingtonians go fishing – legally – without a license on "Free Fishing Weekend," scheduled for June 10-11.
During those two days, no license will be required to fish or gather shellfish in any waters open to fishing in Washington state.
Anglers will also not need a Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement, otherwise required to fish for salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River and its tributaries. Nor will they need a Two Pole Endorsement to fish with two poles in selected waters where two-pole fishing is permitted.
Also, no vehicle access pass or Discover Pass will be required during Free Fishing Weekend to park at any of the nearly 700 water-access sites maintained by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). A Discover Pass is required in state parks on Sunday, June 11 and on DNR lands throughout the weekend however.
"If you haven't fished in Washington, or want to introduce fishing to someone new to the sport, this is the weekend to get out there," said Steve Thiesfeld, WDFW inland fish program manager.
Anglers have been catching daily limits of trout at lakes for the past month, and many rivers will open to trout fishing June 3 throughout the state. Other options available on Free Fishing Weekend include:
Lingcod on the coast.
Bass, crappie, perch and other warmwater fish biting in lakes throughout Washington.
Hatchery spring chinook on the lower Yakima River
Shad on the Columbia River.
Hatchery steelhead on rivers on the Olympic Peninsula.
For tips, new anglers should check online for the "Fish Washington" feature at the department's homepage (http://wdfw.wa.gov). The site provides details on lowland lake fishing, high lake fishing and marine area opportunities.
For those planning fishing vacations, Great Washington Getaways (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/vacation) showcases some of the state's best family travel and fishing opportunities.
And, for those who want even more fishing advice, the Fish Washington video page (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/videos) provides "how to" fishing videos designed to introduce techniques to both new and seasoned anglers.
Anglers who take part in free fishing weekend can also participate in the department's 2017 Trout Fishing Derby and redeem tags from fish caught over the weekend. Interested anglers should check for details online at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/derby.
Before heading out, anglers should also check the current fishing regulations valid through June at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations.
While no licenses are required on Free Fishing Weekend, other rules such as size limits, bag limits and area closures will still be in effect. Anglers will also be required to complete a catch record card for any salmon, steelhead, sturgeon or halibut they catch.
Catch record cards are available free at hundreds of sporting goods stores and other license dealers throughout the state. See http://wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/vendors on the WDFW website to locate a license dealer.
press release issued 6. 1. 17
http://wdfw.wa.gov/news/jun0117c/
This week's bible lesson see page 2
During those two days, no license will be required to fish or gather shellfish in any waters open to fishing in Washington state.
Anglers will also not need a Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement, otherwise required to fish for salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River and its tributaries. Nor will they need a Two Pole Endorsement to fish with two poles in selected waters where two-pole fishing is permitted.
Also, no vehicle access pass or Discover Pass will be required during Free Fishing Weekend to park at any of the nearly 700 water-access sites maintained by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). A Discover Pass is required in state parks on Sunday, June 11 and on DNR lands throughout the weekend however.
"If you haven't fished in Washington, or want to introduce fishing to someone new to the sport, this is the weekend to get out there," said Steve Thiesfeld, WDFW inland fish program manager.
Anglers have been catching daily limits of trout at lakes for the past month, and many rivers will open to trout fishing June 3 throughout the state. Other options available on Free Fishing Weekend include:
Lingcod on the coast.
Bass, crappie, perch and other warmwater fish biting in lakes throughout Washington.
Hatchery spring chinook on the lower Yakima River
Shad on the Columbia River.
Hatchery steelhead on rivers on the Olympic Peninsula.
For tips, new anglers should check online for the "Fish Washington" feature at the department's homepage (http://wdfw.wa.gov). The site provides details on lowland lake fishing, high lake fishing and marine area opportunities.
For those planning fishing vacations, Great Washington Getaways (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/vacation) showcases some of the state's best family travel and fishing opportunities.
And, for those who want even more fishing advice, the Fish Washington video page (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/videos) provides "how to" fishing videos designed to introduce techniques to both new and seasoned anglers.
Anglers who take part in free fishing weekend can also participate in the department's 2017 Trout Fishing Derby and redeem tags from fish caught over the weekend. Interested anglers should check for details online at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/derby.
Before heading out, anglers should also check the current fishing regulations valid through June at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations.
While no licenses are required on Free Fishing Weekend, other rules such as size limits, bag limits and area closures will still be in effect. Anglers will also be required to complete a catch record card for any salmon, steelhead, sturgeon or halibut they catch.
Catch record cards are available free at hundreds of sporting goods stores and other license dealers throughout the state. See http://wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/vendors on the WDFW website to locate a license dealer.
press release issued 6. 1. 17
http://wdfw.wa.gov/news/jun0117c/
This week's bible lesson see page 2
Saturday, June 3, 2017
SHOULD WE HIDE OUR HISTORY BECAUSE IT'S NOT POLITICALLY CORRECT?
Editorial note: That's a question which I been pondering about ever since the news broke that some civil war monuments have been removed. Particularly the monuments of confederate generals. Granted if I been alive back then I'd be fighting on the side of the Union. But, I do question the actions of some who want to change history if that is what this is all about
First let us look back 156 years during the American Civil war. BUT! It doesn't mean it's a cool thing to drive around with the stars and bars flag flying in the wind in the back of a pickup truck. The flag they should be honoring in the back of their truck is old Glory, not the stars and bars of the confederacy.
Quoting from wikipedia: " The American Civil War was fought in the United States from 1861 to 1865. After a long standing controversy over slavery and state's rights, war broke out in April 1861, when Confederates attacked Fort Sumter in South Carolina, shortly after Abraham Lincoln was elected. The nationalists of the Union proclaimed loyalty to the U.S. Constitution. They faced secessionists of the Confederate States of America advocating states’ rights to perpetual slavery and its expansion in the Americas.
Among the 34 U.S. states in February 1861, seven Southern slave states individually declared their secession from the U.S. to form the Confederate States of America. The Confederacy grew to include eleven states; it claimed two more border states (Kentucky and Missouri), the Indian Territory, and the southern portions of the Union's western territories of Arizona and New Mexico, which was organized and incorporated into the Confederacy as Confederate Arizona. The Confederacy was never diplomatically recognized by the United States government, nor was it recognized by any foreign country (although Britain and France granted it belligerent status). The states that remained loyal, including the border states where slavery was legal, were known as the Union or the North.
The North and South quickly raised volunteer and conscript armies that fought mostly in the South over four years. During this time many innovations in warfare occurred, including the development and use of iron-clad ships, ultimately changing naval strategy around the world. The Union finally won the war when General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant at the battle of Appomattox, which triggered a series of surrenders by Confederate generals throughout the southern states. Four years of intense combat left 620,000 to 750,000 soldiers dead, a higher number than the number of American military deaths in World War I and World War II combined, and much of the South's infrastructure was destroyed. The Confederacy collapsed, slavery was abolished, and 4 million slaves were freed. The Reconstruction Era (1863–1877) overlapped and followed the war, with the process of restoring national unity, strengthening the national government, and granting civil rights to freed slaves throughout the country. The Civil War is arguably the most studied and written about episode in American history."---read full story
The leading Generals:
Ulysses S. Grant (born Hiram Ulysses Grant; April 27, 1822 – July 23, 1885) was the 18th President of the United States (1869–77). As Commanding General (1864–69), Grant worked closely with President Abraham Lincoln to lead the Union Army to victory over the Confederacy in the American Civil War. Supported by Congress, Grant implemented Reconstruction, often at odds with President Andrew Johnson. Twice elected president, Grant led the Republicans in their effort to remove the vestiges of Confederate nationalism and slavery, protect African-American citizenship, and support economic prosperity. His presidency has often been criticized for tolerating corruption and for the economic depression in his second term.
Grant graduated in 1843 from the United States Military Academy at West Point, then served in the Mexican–American War. After the war he married Julia Boggs Dent in 1848, their marriage producing four children. Grant initially retired from the Army in 1854. He struggled financially in civilian life. When the Civil War began in 1861, he rejoined the U.S. Army. In 1862, Grant took control of Kentucky and most of Tennessee, and led Union forces to victory in the Battle of Shiloh, earning a reputation as an aggressive commander. In July 1863, after a series of coordinated battles, Grant defeated Confederate armies and seized Vicksburg, giving the Union control of the Mississippi River and dividing the Confederacy in two. After his victories in the Chattanooga Campaign, Lincoln promoted him to lieutenant general and Commanding General of the Army in March 1864. Grant confronted Robert E. Lee in a series of bloody battles, trapping Lee's army in their defense of Richmond. Grant coordinated a series of devastating campaigns in other theaters, as well. In April 1865, Lee surrendered to Grant at Appomattox, effectively ending the war. ---see full story
Editorial Note: So, are we going to start taking down Union generals monuments, or just target confederate ones?
Robert E Lee
Robert Edward Lee (January 19, 1807 – October 12, 1870) was an American general known for commanding the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia in the American Civil War from 1862 until his surrender in 1865. The son of Revolutionary War officer Henry "Light Horse Harry" Lee III, Lee was a top graduate of the United States Military Academy and an exceptional officer and military engineer in the United States Army for 32 years. During this time, he served throughout the United States, distinguished himself during the Mexican–American War, and served as Superintendent of the United States Military Academy.
When Virginia declared its secession from the Union in April 1861, Lee chose to follow his home state, despite his personal desire for the country to remain intact and an offer of a senior Union command. During the first year of the Civil War, Lee served as a senior military adviser to President Jefferson Davis. Once he took command of the main field army in 1862 he soon emerged as a shrewd tactician and battlefield commander, winning most of his battles, all against far superior Union armies. Lee's strategic foresight was more questionable, and both of his major offensives into Union territory ended in defeat.
Lee's aggressive tactics, which resulted in high casualties at a time when the Confederacy had a shortage of manpower, have come under criticism in recent years. Lee surrendered his entire army to Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865. By this time, Lee had assumed supreme command of the remaining Southern armies; other Confederate forces swiftly capitulated after his surrender. Lee rejected the proposal of a sustained insurgency against the Union and called for reconciliation between the two sides.
After the war, as President of what is now Washington and Lee University, Lee supported President Andrew Johnson's program of Reconstruction and intersectional friendship, while opposing the Radical Republican proposals to give freed slaves the vote and take the vote away from ex-Confederates. He urged them to rethink their position between the North and the South, and the reintegration of former Confederates into the nation's political life. Lee became the great Southern hero of the War, a postwar icon of the "Lost Cause of the Confederacy" to some. But his popularity grew even in the North, especially after his death in 1870. Barracks at West Point built in 1962 are named after him. ( read full story)
Related Stories:
NPR: New Orleans Takes Down Statue Of Gen. Robert E. Lee
FOX NEWS: New Orleans takes down prominent Confederate monument
WP: Protests against removing Confederate monuments are not really about history
NBC NEWS: Is Removing Confederate Monuments Like Erasing History?
NY TIMES: Mitch Landrieu’s Speech on the Removal of Confederate Monuments in New Orleans
NY DAILY NEWS: Condoleezza Rice argues tearing down slave owners’ statues is ‘sanitizing’ history
Quote: “When you start wiping out your history, sanitizing your history to make you feel better, it’s a bad thing,” Rice said.
Quote: “I’m a firm believer in ‘keep your history before you.’ And so I don’t actually want to rename things that were named for slave owners,” Rice replied. “I want us to have to look at the names and recognize what they did, and be able to tell our kids what they did and for them to have a sense of their own history.”
First let us look back 156 years during the American Civil war. BUT! It doesn't mean it's a cool thing to drive around with the stars and bars flag flying in the wind in the back of a pickup truck. The flag they should be honoring in the back of their truck is old Glory, not the stars and bars of the confederacy.
Quoting from wikipedia: " The American Civil War was fought in the United States from 1861 to 1865. After a long standing controversy over slavery and state's rights, war broke out in April 1861, when Confederates attacked Fort Sumter in South Carolina, shortly after Abraham Lincoln was elected. The nationalists of the Union proclaimed loyalty to the U.S. Constitution. They faced secessionists of the Confederate States of America advocating states’ rights to perpetual slavery and its expansion in the Americas.
Among the 34 U.S. states in February 1861, seven Southern slave states individually declared their secession from the U.S. to form the Confederate States of America. The Confederacy grew to include eleven states; it claimed two more border states (Kentucky and Missouri), the Indian Territory, and the southern portions of the Union's western territories of Arizona and New Mexico, which was organized and incorporated into the Confederacy as Confederate Arizona. The Confederacy was never diplomatically recognized by the United States government, nor was it recognized by any foreign country (although Britain and France granted it belligerent status). The states that remained loyal, including the border states where slavery was legal, were known as the Union or the North.
The North and South quickly raised volunteer and conscript armies that fought mostly in the South over four years. During this time many innovations in warfare occurred, including the development and use of iron-clad ships, ultimately changing naval strategy around the world. The Union finally won the war when General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant at the battle of Appomattox, which triggered a series of surrenders by Confederate generals throughout the southern states. Four years of intense combat left 620,000 to 750,000 soldiers dead, a higher number than the number of American military deaths in World War I and World War II combined, and much of the South's infrastructure was destroyed. The Confederacy collapsed, slavery was abolished, and 4 million slaves were freed. The Reconstruction Era (1863–1877) overlapped and followed the war, with the process of restoring national unity, strengthening the national government, and granting civil rights to freed slaves throughout the country. The Civil War is arguably the most studied and written about episode in American history."---read full story
The leading Generals:
Ulysses S. Grant (born Hiram Ulysses Grant; April 27, 1822 – July 23, 1885) was the 18th President of the United States (1869–77). As Commanding General (1864–69), Grant worked closely with President Abraham Lincoln to lead the Union Army to victory over the Confederacy in the American Civil War. Supported by Congress, Grant implemented Reconstruction, often at odds with President Andrew Johnson. Twice elected president, Grant led the Republicans in their effort to remove the vestiges of Confederate nationalism and slavery, protect African-American citizenship, and support economic prosperity. His presidency has often been criticized for tolerating corruption and for the economic depression in his second term.
Grant graduated in 1843 from the United States Military Academy at West Point, then served in the Mexican–American War. After the war he married Julia Boggs Dent in 1848, their marriage producing four children. Grant initially retired from the Army in 1854. He struggled financially in civilian life. When the Civil War began in 1861, he rejoined the U.S. Army. In 1862, Grant took control of Kentucky and most of Tennessee, and led Union forces to victory in the Battle of Shiloh, earning a reputation as an aggressive commander. In July 1863, after a series of coordinated battles, Grant defeated Confederate armies and seized Vicksburg, giving the Union control of the Mississippi River and dividing the Confederacy in two. After his victories in the Chattanooga Campaign, Lincoln promoted him to lieutenant general and Commanding General of the Army in March 1864. Grant confronted Robert E. Lee in a series of bloody battles, trapping Lee's army in their defense of Richmond. Grant coordinated a series of devastating campaigns in other theaters, as well. In April 1865, Lee surrendered to Grant at Appomattox, effectively ending the war. ---see full story
Editorial Note: So, are we going to start taking down Union generals monuments, or just target confederate ones?
Robert E Lee
Robert Edward Lee (January 19, 1807 – October 12, 1870) was an American general known for commanding the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia in the American Civil War from 1862 until his surrender in 1865. The son of Revolutionary War officer Henry "Light Horse Harry" Lee III, Lee was a top graduate of the United States Military Academy and an exceptional officer and military engineer in the United States Army for 32 years. During this time, he served throughout the United States, distinguished himself during the Mexican–American War, and served as Superintendent of the United States Military Academy.
When Virginia declared its secession from the Union in April 1861, Lee chose to follow his home state, despite his personal desire for the country to remain intact and an offer of a senior Union command. During the first year of the Civil War, Lee served as a senior military adviser to President Jefferson Davis. Once he took command of the main field army in 1862 he soon emerged as a shrewd tactician and battlefield commander, winning most of his battles, all against far superior Union armies. Lee's strategic foresight was more questionable, and both of his major offensives into Union territory ended in defeat.
Lee's aggressive tactics, which resulted in high casualties at a time when the Confederacy had a shortage of manpower, have come under criticism in recent years. Lee surrendered his entire army to Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865. By this time, Lee had assumed supreme command of the remaining Southern armies; other Confederate forces swiftly capitulated after his surrender. Lee rejected the proposal of a sustained insurgency against the Union and called for reconciliation between the two sides.
After the war, as President of what is now Washington and Lee University, Lee supported President Andrew Johnson's program of Reconstruction and intersectional friendship, while opposing the Radical Republican proposals to give freed slaves the vote and take the vote away from ex-Confederates. He urged them to rethink their position between the North and the South, and the reintegration of former Confederates into the nation's political life. Lee became the great Southern hero of the War, a postwar icon of the "Lost Cause of the Confederacy" to some. But his popularity grew even in the North, especially after his death in 1870. Barracks at West Point built in 1962 are named after him. ( read full story)
Related Stories:
NPR: New Orleans Takes Down Statue Of Gen. Robert E. Lee
FOX NEWS: New Orleans takes down prominent Confederate monument
WP: Protests against removing Confederate monuments are not really about history
NBC NEWS: Is Removing Confederate Monuments Like Erasing History?
NY TIMES: Mitch Landrieu’s Speech on the Removal of Confederate Monuments in New Orleans
NY DAILY NEWS: Condoleezza Rice argues tearing down slave owners’ statues is ‘sanitizing’ history
Quote: “When you start wiping out your history, sanitizing your history to make you feel better, it’s a bad thing,” Rice said.
Quote: “I’m a firm believer in ‘keep your history before you.’ And so I don’t actually want to rename things that were named for slave owners,” Rice replied. “I want us to have to look at the names and recognize what they did, and be able to tell our kids what they did and for them to have a sense of their own history.”
DNR: Commissioner Franz Statement on President Trump’s Decision to Withdraw from Paris Climate Agreement
OLYMPIA – Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz released the following statement after President Donald Trump decided to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement.
“This is a sad day for America. President Trump has broken our promise to the world to lead the way to a future in which we sustainably feed and support our communities. The burden now falls on us a state to double down on these efforts.
“Today’s action by the president makes it clear we must do everything we can to prepare and adapt our state for the impacts of a changing climate. States have long been the front-runners of progress, and we will continue to lead the way.
“We owe it to the 100,000 workers in Washington’s forest industry who are seeing their jobs go up in the smoke of intensifying wildfires, accelerating disease and broader insect infestations. We owe it to the 32,000 Washington shellfish workers who are seeing acidifying seas destroy the developing shells of our oysters and mussels. We owe it to the 90,000 people who work for Washington’s 100-plus clean energy companies whose products are exported to overseas buyers. We owe it to the 200,000 workers in Washington's outdoor recreation industry, who need clean air and water to help our people access and appreciate the lands that make us the Evergreen State. We owe it to the children who dig geoducks every day and to those who have never seen one.
“It is up to us, the elected leaders of our state, to address threats to our quality of life. I will continue and redouble efforts to work for sound climate policy that works for all the people of our state, policies that:
* Significantly reduce carbon pollution
* Preserve the productivity of state lands
* Protect existing, family wage jobs in natural resource industries
* Grow new jobs in clean energy
* Provide value to those impacted by climate change, and those impacted by the policies we develop in response
“We can take care of each other in Washington. Whether we live in Wallingford or Washtucna, our lands sustain us. It is our duty, now more than ever, to return the favor.”---from a press release issued June 1st.
http://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/commissioner-franz-statement-president-trump%E2%80%99s-decision-withdraw-paris-climate-agreement
For local news headlines and commentary see page 2
“This is a sad day for America. President Trump has broken our promise to the world to lead the way to a future in which we sustainably feed and support our communities. The burden now falls on us a state to double down on these efforts.
“Today’s action by the president makes it clear we must do everything we can to prepare and adapt our state for the impacts of a changing climate. States have long been the front-runners of progress, and we will continue to lead the way.
“We owe it to the 100,000 workers in Washington’s forest industry who are seeing their jobs go up in the smoke of intensifying wildfires, accelerating disease and broader insect infestations. We owe it to the 32,000 Washington shellfish workers who are seeing acidifying seas destroy the developing shells of our oysters and mussels. We owe it to the 90,000 people who work for Washington’s 100-plus clean energy companies whose products are exported to overseas buyers. We owe it to the 200,000 workers in Washington's outdoor recreation industry, who need clean air and water to help our people access and appreciate the lands that make us the Evergreen State. We owe it to the children who dig geoducks every day and to those who have never seen one.
“It is up to us, the elected leaders of our state, to address threats to our quality of life. I will continue and redouble efforts to work for sound climate policy that works for all the people of our state, policies that:
* Significantly reduce carbon pollution
* Preserve the productivity of state lands
* Protect existing, family wage jobs in natural resource industries
* Grow new jobs in clean energy
* Provide value to those impacted by climate change, and those impacted by the policies we develop in response
“We can take care of each other in Washington. Whether we live in Wallingford or Washtucna, our lands sustain us. It is our duty, now more than ever, to return the favor.”---from a press release issued June 1st.
http://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/commissioner-franz-statement-president-trump%E2%80%99s-decision-withdraw-paris-climate-agreement
For local news headlines and commentary see page 2
Friday, June 2, 2017
Inslee, New York Governor Cuomo, and California Governor Brown announce formation of United States Climate Alliance
OLYMPIA - In response to President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, California Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr., and Washington State Governor Jay Inslee today announced the formation of the United States Climate Alliance, a coalition that will convene U.S. states committed to upholding the Paris Climate Agreement and taking aggressive action on climate change.
“I am proud to stand with other governors as we make sure that the inaction in D.C. is met by an equal force of action from the states," said Inslee. "Today’s announcement by the president leaves the full responsibility of climate action on states and cities throughout our nation. While the president’s actions are a shameful rebuke to the work needed to protect our planet for our children and grandchildren, states have been and will continue to step up.”
“The White House’s reckless decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement has devastating repercussions not only for the United States, but for our planet. This administration is abdicating its leadership and taking a backseat to other countries in the global fight against climate change,” said Governor Cuomo. “New York State is committed to meeting the standards set forth in the Paris Accord regardless of Washington’s irresponsible actions. We will not ignore the science and reality of climate change which is why I am also signing an Executive Order confirming New York’s leadership role in protecting our citizens, our environment, and our planet.”
New York, California and Washington, representing over one-fifth of U.S. Gross Domestic Product, are committed to achieving the U.S. goal of reducing emissions 26-28 percent from 2005 levels and meeting or exceeding the targets of the federal Clean Power Plan.
“The President has already said climate change is a hoax, which is the exact opposite of virtually all scientific and worldwide opinion,” said Governor Brown. “I don't believe fighting reality is a good strategy - not for America, not for anybody. If the President is going to be AWOL in this profoundly important human endeavor, then California and other states will step up.”
Together, New York, California and Washington represent approximately 68 million people – nearly one-in-five Americans – and the states account for at least 10 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Washington will continue to work closely together with other states to help fill the void left by the federal government.
With input from all participants, the U.S. Climate Alliance will also act as a forum to sustain and strengthen existing climate programs, promote the sharing of information and best practices, and implement new programs to reduce carbon emissions from all sectors of the economy.
http://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-new-york-governor-cuomo-and-california-governor-brown-announce-formation-united
Related Story:
Inslee statement on Trump's intention to remove U.S. from international climate agreement
Washington state is leading the way on climate issues where Washington, D.C., is failing. The Paris Climate Agreement is a landmark international pact that represents our greatest opportunity to secure long-term U.S. and global economic security in the face of growing threats from climate change. One hundred and ninety-four nations have signed the agreement, 147 have ratified it, and more than 85 percent of the world's carbon pollution are now covered by its terms. Counted among the signatories are China and India, two of the world's largest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions, whose support for the agreement emerged through diligent U.S. leadership.
"Today the White House signaled that President Donald Trump will end the United States' participation in this agreement. This is a shameful course of action that will jeopardize the health and prosperity of our children and grandchildren. With this decision, Trump would leave America's destiny not as a nation that harnesses the clean, renewable energy above our shoulders, but that instead remains mired in the dirty, diminishing energy under our feet.
"But even before today, the Trump Administration has been taking steps to show it will refuse to confront the climate challenge. Trump's Environmental Protection Agency is already working to gut carbon pollution standards, to instead benefit fossil fuel industry profits; his Energy Department is proposing to slash research and development into new clean energy technologies; and his State Department has already checked out of our international climate partnerships.
"In Washington state we are taking action to reduce carbon pollution. We have implemented a cap on carbon pollution, and we will continue working with businesses and research institutions to develop and deploy 21st century clean energy solutions. We are also partnering with other states who are doing the same, and our states will not stop fighting for a clean energy future, regardless of who is in the White House. But we - and the global community - need a partner in the United States federal government.
"The U.S. cannot credibly remain a world leader while withdrawing from an agreement that reflects the overwhelming desire of the global community. President Trump has put our nation on the wrong path, and the wrong side of history."
http://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-statement-trumps-intention-remove-us-international-climate-agreement
(For more state related stories see page 2)
“I am proud to stand with other governors as we make sure that the inaction in D.C. is met by an equal force of action from the states," said Inslee. "Today’s announcement by the president leaves the full responsibility of climate action on states and cities throughout our nation. While the president’s actions are a shameful rebuke to the work needed to protect our planet for our children and grandchildren, states have been and will continue to step up.”
“The White House’s reckless decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement has devastating repercussions not only for the United States, but for our planet. This administration is abdicating its leadership and taking a backseat to other countries in the global fight against climate change,” said Governor Cuomo. “New York State is committed to meeting the standards set forth in the Paris Accord regardless of Washington’s irresponsible actions. We will not ignore the science and reality of climate change which is why I am also signing an Executive Order confirming New York’s leadership role in protecting our citizens, our environment, and our planet.”
New York, California and Washington, representing over one-fifth of U.S. Gross Domestic Product, are committed to achieving the U.S. goal of reducing emissions 26-28 percent from 2005 levels and meeting or exceeding the targets of the federal Clean Power Plan.
“The President has already said climate change is a hoax, which is the exact opposite of virtually all scientific and worldwide opinion,” said Governor Brown. “I don't believe fighting reality is a good strategy - not for America, not for anybody. If the President is going to be AWOL in this profoundly important human endeavor, then California and other states will step up.”
Together, New York, California and Washington represent approximately 68 million people – nearly one-in-five Americans – and the states account for at least 10 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Washington will continue to work closely together with other states to help fill the void left by the federal government.
With input from all participants, the U.S. Climate Alliance will also act as a forum to sustain and strengthen existing climate programs, promote the sharing of information and best practices, and implement new programs to reduce carbon emissions from all sectors of the economy.
http://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-new-york-governor-cuomo-and-california-governor-brown-announce-formation-united
Related Story:
Inslee statement on Trump's intention to remove U.S. from international climate agreement
Washington state is leading the way on climate issues where Washington, D.C., is failing. The Paris Climate Agreement is a landmark international pact that represents our greatest opportunity to secure long-term U.S. and global economic security in the face of growing threats from climate change. One hundred and ninety-four nations have signed the agreement, 147 have ratified it, and more than 85 percent of the world's carbon pollution are now covered by its terms. Counted among the signatories are China and India, two of the world's largest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions, whose support for the agreement emerged through diligent U.S. leadership.
"Today the White House signaled that President Donald Trump will end the United States' participation in this agreement. This is a shameful course of action that will jeopardize the health and prosperity of our children and grandchildren. With this decision, Trump would leave America's destiny not as a nation that harnesses the clean, renewable energy above our shoulders, but that instead remains mired in the dirty, diminishing energy under our feet.
"But even before today, the Trump Administration has been taking steps to show it will refuse to confront the climate challenge. Trump's Environmental Protection Agency is already working to gut carbon pollution standards, to instead benefit fossil fuel industry profits; his Energy Department is proposing to slash research and development into new clean energy technologies; and his State Department has already checked out of our international climate partnerships.
"In Washington state we are taking action to reduce carbon pollution. We have implemented a cap on carbon pollution, and we will continue working with businesses and research institutions to develop and deploy 21st century clean energy solutions. We are also partnering with other states who are doing the same, and our states will not stop fighting for a clean energy future, regardless of who is in the White House. But we - and the global community - need a partner in the United States federal government.
"The U.S. cannot credibly remain a world leader while withdrawing from an agreement that reflects the overwhelming desire of the global community. President Trump has put our nation on the wrong path, and the wrong side of history."
http://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-statement-trumps-intention-remove-us-international-climate-agreement
(For more state related stories see page 2)
Thursday, June 1, 2017
Cantwell, Murray Raise Concerns over President Trump’s Cuts to Rural Development
President Trump’s drastic budget cuts, coupled with plans to eliminate the USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development, would hurt small towns and rural communities
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) joined 27 Senate Democrats to send a letter to President Trump expressing strong concerns over recent actions that would have negative impacts on families in rural America.
Last week, President Trump issued a budget proposal calling for drastic cuts that would undermine the important rural development mission at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). These damaging cuts come on the heels of recently announced plans to eliminate the USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development, an important advocate for small towns and rural communities across the country.
In the letter, the Senators objected to the proposed cuts, and urged President Trump to maintain the Under Secretary for Rural Development.
“Small towns and rural communities embody many of our nation’s greatest strengths, and the people of these communities deserve every opportunity to raise their families with well-paying jobs and a high quality of life,” wrote the senators. “Our small towns and rural communities, however, experience unique challenges in developing and maintaining infrastructure and providing high-quality health services and education. Understanding and responding to these unique challenges to help these communities create jobs and drive economic growth is the principal mission of USDA Rural Development.”
press release: https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-raise-concerns-over-president-trumps-cuts-to-rural-development-
See full text of letter to President Trump
Cantwell and Bipartisan, Bicameral Group of Lawmakers Work to Reunite U.S. Families & Their Adopted Children
Adoption Ban Leaves 200 U.S. families & their Adopted Children in Limbo
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), along with 122 Members of Congress, urged the Prime Minister of Ethiopia to reconsider his April 21st decision to suspend international adoptions. The order has left more than 200 U.S. families, and the Ethiopian children they are trying to bring home, in a heartbreaking limbo.
In a bipartisan - and bicameral - letter to Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, Cantwell, 47 of her Senate colleagues, and 75 members of the House of Representatives said: “While we respect your government’s decisions regarding future adoption policy in Ethiopia, we ask for your help in resolving expeditiously cases that were already underway on April 21. We are concerned that a failure to work with us to help these children join their adoptive families could have a negative impact on the relationship between our two governments.”
The group of lawmakers is particularly concerned about approximately 30 adoptions that have already been finalized but, because of the order, the parents are unable to obtain the final paperwork, or “vitals”, necessary to bring their legally-adopted children home. The government of Ethiopia has provided the adoptive parents no legal justification for the delays, which have had an adverse effect on the children: “In many cases, children and families have already initiated the emotional bonding and attachment process. We fear breaking these attachments by delaying these adoptions may be detrimental to the children and adoptive families involved. Our constituents want to provide loving, safe families to those in need and simply wish to bring their adopted children home in a timely fashion and in accordance with the law.”
Press release: https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-and-bipartisan-bicameral-group-of-lawmakers-work-to-reunite-us-families-and-their-adopted-children-
For more news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC, and Advocacy Notebook headlines see page 2
Wednesday, May 31, 2017
Wild Olympics' Proposal Harnesses Economic Power of Public Lands, Supporters Say
A measure to protect land and waterways in Washington’s Olympic Peninsula will preserve environmental assets while creating jobs, supporters say. The days of “either/or” are over, says U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (D) of Washington’s 6th District.
U. S. Representative Derek Kilmer is a native of his home district, raised by two educators in Port Angeles, Washington. The city of 19,000 is the largest along the 90-mile northern coast of the Olympic Peninsula .
Kilmer speaks fondly of a childhood, “hiking the Hoh, paddling the sound.” The representative is a creature of his Northwest Washington district, most of which is characterized by rural and public land.
Kilmer, who was first elected to Congress in 2012, believes that activities like these are one of the key economic engines for rural communities. “There’s a lot of money, a lot of income, in outdoor recreation.”
Kilmer, collaborating with Washington Senator Patty Murray, hopes to strengthen his district’s economy by expanding recreation opportunities in the Olympic region. Their Wild Olympics Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Act has a goal of protecting more than 126,500 acres of Olympic National Forest as wilderness along with 19 rivers and their tributaries. Working with community partners in the Wild Olympics Campaign, Kilmer said his bill “has an eye toward the notion that you can both protect land and support job creation. It’s not an either/or approach. It’s a both/and.”
Further quote: " Some citizens on the Olympic Peninsula are opposed to the Wild Olympics plans, calling it “Obama’s land deal power grab.” Critics say that a Wilderness designation would limit access to public land, decrease a needed focus on wildfire prevention, and increase the federal deficit. They point to a history of mismanagement of local federal lands that they say could signal trouble to come.
Representative Kilmer says that the 2017 proposal takes these criticisms into account. The current Wild Olympics proposal is an outgrowth of “extensive conversations with local communities, Native American tribes, the timber industry, environmental groups, and small business owners throughout the Peninsula. We’ve figured out to how to thread the needle.” Input from Peninsula communities ensured that the legislative proposal was designed to have no impact on timber jobs and close no roads. As local efforts for the proposal move ahead, more than 700 local elected officials, businesses, hunting and fishing groups, and sport fishing entrepreneurs endorsed the legislation."
Sources: Congressman Kilmer web page share news article from the Daily Yonder.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/wild-olympics-proposal-harnesses-economic-power-of-public-lands-supporters-say
For more national headlines see page 2
Tuesday, May 30, 2017
Recent tragedies highlight urgency for ‘credible’ and ‘safe’ pathways to Europe – UN refugee agency
UN NEWS SERVICE: Recent tragedies highlight urgency for ‘credible’ and ‘safe’ pathways to Europe – UN refugee agency
30 May 2017 – Against the backdrop of more than 1,700 people having perished this year while undertaking perilous crossings across central Mediterranean Sea to reach mainland Europe, the United Nations refugee agency has appealed for “credible alternatives” to ensure accessible and safe ways for people in need of international protection to reach the continent.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56858
Central African Republic: Amid fresh violence, UN rallies support for displaced
30 May 2017 – United Nations agencies are seeking to rally support for the people fleeing escalating violence in the Central African Republic (CAR), while the Organization's human rights office has called for the establishment of a strong justice system in the country.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56857
With 'blue helmets' in harm's way every day, peacekeeping reforms and resources needed – UN chief
29 May 2017 – Marking International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, Secretary-General António Guterres today said that peacekeeping must have the tools and rules it needs to adapt to the dangerous and challenging environments they face.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56854
UN risk reduction forum in Cancun closes with call to harness data
29 May 2017 – We can't change nature, but we can be prepared if we have the right information – that was the message from a major United Nations conference on risk reduction in Cancun, Mexico, which closed with a call for all countries to systematically measure losses from natural disasters.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56856
Civilians in Syria must be spared from anti-ISIL airstrikes – UN rights chief
26 May 2017 – The United Nations human rights chief today urged all warring parties in Syria to take every feasible measure to spare the civilian population from the effects of the armed conflict, noting that civilians are increasing caught in fighting between the Government forces and the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da'esh) terrorist group.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56844
For more world news and events see page 2
Business and finance report can be found on page 3
30 May 2017 – Against the backdrop of more than 1,700 people having perished this year while undertaking perilous crossings across central Mediterranean Sea to reach mainland Europe, the United Nations refugee agency has appealed for “credible alternatives” to ensure accessible and safe ways for people in need of international protection to reach the continent.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56858
Central African Republic: Amid fresh violence, UN rallies support for displaced
30 May 2017 – United Nations agencies are seeking to rally support for the people fleeing escalating violence in the Central African Republic (CAR), while the Organization's human rights office has called for the establishment of a strong justice system in the country.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56857
With 'blue helmets' in harm's way every day, peacekeeping reforms and resources needed – UN chief
29 May 2017 – Marking International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, Secretary-General António Guterres today said that peacekeeping must have the tools and rules it needs to adapt to the dangerous and challenging environments they face.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56854
UN risk reduction forum in Cancun closes with call to harness data
29 May 2017 – We can't change nature, but we can be prepared if we have the right information – that was the message from a major United Nations conference on risk reduction in Cancun, Mexico, which closed with a call for all countries to systematically measure losses from natural disasters.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56856
Civilians in Syria must be spared from anti-ISIL airstrikes – UN rights chief
26 May 2017 – The United Nations human rights chief today urged all warring parties in Syria to take every feasible measure to spare the civilian population from the effects of the armed conflict, noting that civilians are increasing caught in fighting between the Government forces and the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da'esh) terrorist group.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56844
For more world news and events see page 2
Business and finance report can be found on page 3
Monday, May 29, 2017
NO UPDATE FOR TODAY
Readers, I'm taking the day off today. Hope you all have a great Memorial Day.
Tomorrow's publication will feature two reports Business news, and our regular world news and events. Enjoy the holiday everyone.
From a shared facebook photo
Tomorrow's publication will feature two reports Business news, and our regular world news and events. Enjoy the holiday everyone.
From a shared facebook photo
Saturday, May 27, 2017
COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING HIGHLIGHT: LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR A SCHOOL BASED HEALTH CLINIC
Tuesday, the County commission will hold both their work session, and regular meetings due to the Memorial Day holiday. Both the city, and port have no scheduled meetings next week, so the only game in town is on the County Level.
The highlight item on the work session agenda is a letter regarding a letter of support for a school based health clinic.
Discuss letter of support encouraging the Port Angeles School Board to adopt a program for a School Based Health Clinic presented by the North Olympic Healthcare Network ( Port Angeles Schoof District, and Port Angeles Citizen Action Network.
See draft of letter being sent: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=43&meta_id=10150
See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=43
Meeting will start at 9AM at the County Court House.
During the regular meeting starting at 10AM the agenda highlight item (s) are:
Resolution adopting the following Budget Revisions:
Non Departmental – Hotel/Motel Tax – Reallocation of funds in order to make a onetime expenditure to Clallam County Public Works for the Olympic Discovery Trail Hwy 112 to Waterline Road – Bridge and Abutments project/$105,000
Department of Community Development – Approved in 2017 budget for the completion of the Shoreline Management Plan the funds need to be moved out of Code Enforcement Professional Services and added to the Long Range Planning Professional Services/$40,000
see details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325&meta_id=10222
Resolution re-establishing the Clallam Bay-Sekiu Sewer Community Advisory Board
The Board of Clallam County Commíssioners recognizes the valued consumers of having an Advisory Board to address their make recommendations to the Board of Commissioners rate structure, and billing disputes.
see for further details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325&meta_id=10214
Resolution adopting the following Supplemental Appropriation:
Department of Community Development – Long Range Planning/Natural Resources –Professional services for the McDonald Creek Restoration – Feasibility/Implementation and extends the expiration date to 6-30-2018/$190,000
see for further details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325&meta_id=10220
See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325
DAILY DEVOTIONAL:
But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.----Acts 20:24 NKJV
Free bible study offered by World Bible School
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/
Learn english using the bible as text (WEI)
http://www.worldenglishinstitute.org/
Editorial Note: Not much this week on the local level in this week's edition. Go and enjoy the Memorial Day holiday everyone.
The highlight item on the work session agenda is a letter regarding a letter of support for a school based health clinic.
Discuss letter of support encouraging the Port Angeles School Board to adopt a program for a School Based Health Clinic presented by the North Olympic Healthcare Network ( Port Angeles Schoof District, and Port Angeles Citizen Action Network.
See draft of letter being sent: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=43&meta_id=10150
See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=43
Meeting will start at 9AM at the County Court House.
During the regular meeting starting at 10AM the agenda highlight item (s) are:
Resolution adopting the following Budget Revisions:
Non Departmental – Hotel/Motel Tax – Reallocation of funds in order to make a onetime expenditure to Clallam County Public Works for the Olympic Discovery Trail Hwy 112 to Waterline Road – Bridge and Abutments project/$105,000
Department of Community Development – Approved in 2017 budget for the completion of the Shoreline Management Plan the funds need to be moved out of Code Enforcement Professional Services and added to the Long Range Planning Professional Services/$40,000
see details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325&meta_id=10222
Resolution re-establishing the Clallam Bay-Sekiu Sewer Community Advisory Board
The Board of Clallam County Commíssioners recognizes the valued consumers of having an Advisory Board to address their make recommendations to the Board of Commissioners rate structure, and billing disputes.
see for further details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325&meta_id=10214
Resolution adopting the following Supplemental Appropriation:
Department of Community Development – Long Range Planning/Natural Resources –Professional services for the McDonald Creek Restoration – Feasibility/Implementation and extends the expiration date to 6-30-2018/$190,000
see for further details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325&meta_id=10220
See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325
DAILY DEVOTIONAL:
But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.----Acts 20:24 NKJV
Free bible study offered by World Bible School
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/
Learn english using the bible as text (WEI)
http://www.worldenglishinstitute.org/
Editorial Note: Not much this week on the local level in this week's edition. Go and enjoy the Memorial Day holiday everyone.
Friday, May 26, 2017
Kilmer Presses Trump Administration Officials on Why Budget Proposal Cuts Manufacturing and Coastal Protection Initiatives that Help Olympic Peninsula
Washington, D.C. – Today, during a House Appropriations Committee hearing, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) pressed Trump Administration officials for answers as to why programs that create jobs and protect rural communities are cut in their proposed budget. Kilmer asked the Secretary of Commerce, Wilbur Ross, why a program that provided a key investment to help Port Angeles’s Composite Recycling Technology Center open was slated for elimination. He also sought an explanation for the zeroing out of an initiative that helps rural communities on the coast counter rising sea levels and tsunami threats.
The Port Angeles composite center won federal grants through the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration and recently received the 2017 Washington Manufacturing Award from Seattle Business Magazine.
Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross appeared before the Commerce, Justice, Science, and related agencies.
Kilmer pointed out the importance of the Administration to the Port Angeles project, and others like it.
Kilmer said: “Before I came to Congress I worked in economic development professionally and worked often with the only agency at the federal level whose sole purpose is economic development and that’s the Economic Development Administration. I represent a district that has a lot of areas that are really struggling. My hometown of Port Angeles is one of those distressed communities. And with the help of the EDA’s Regional Innovation Strategies Program we started up a composite recycling center in that town with an investment of $500,000 which is a drop in the bucket for the federal government. The recycling center is going to establish a new industry and bring much needed jobs into an area that needs it. I am perplexed that the Department would choose to eliminate one of the federal government’s strongest supporters of job creation. I know that the rationale is stated as it being duplicative. I would love to understand what programs EDA is duplicative of and what’s the rationale for eliminating it.”
read full statement:
Editorial Comment: When I first heard of the opportunity of having a high tech trade like composites, I thought it would be under private business hands, not funded by government handouts. It was good to have the assistance of the government in this new industry to start it, but at some point you have to prove if your new product can be marketed in the private sector not continually funded by government grants, and loans. When does it fall into private hands Congressman Kilmer? If the composite trade is a boon it should survive the private sector, right now all they seem to be building out of the composites are park benches! So, we are getting governmental grants, and loans for park benches....something wrong with that picture?
For more state related news see page 2
The Port Angeles composite center won federal grants through the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration and recently received the 2017 Washington Manufacturing Award from Seattle Business Magazine.
Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross appeared before the Commerce, Justice, Science, and related agencies.
Kilmer pointed out the importance of the Administration to the Port Angeles project, and others like it.
Kilmer said: “Before I came to Congress I worked in economic development professionally and worked often with the only agency at the federal level whose sole purpose is economic development and that’s the Economic Development Administration. I represent a district that has a lot of areas that are really struggling. My hometown of Port Angeles is one of those distressed communities. And with the help of the EDA’s Regional Innovation Strategies Program we started up a composite recycling center in that town with an investment of $500,000 which is a drop in the bucket for the federal government. The recycling center is going to establish a new industry and bring much needed jobs into an area that needs it. I am perplexed that the Department would choose to eliminate one of the federal government’s strongest supporters of job creation. I know that the rationale is stated as it being duplicative. I would love to understand what programs EDA is duplicative of and what’s the rationale for eliminating it.”
read full statement:
Editorial Comment: When I first heard of the opportunity of having a high tech trade like composites, I thought it would be under private business hands, not funded by government handouts. It was good to have the assistance of the government in this new industry to start it, but at some point you have to prove if your new product can be marketed in the private sector not continually funded by government grants, and loans. When does it fall into private hands Congressman Kilmer? If the composite trade is a boon it should survive the private sector, right now all they seem to be building out of the composites are park benches! So, we are getting governmental grants, and loans for park benches....something wrong with that picture?
For more state related news see page 2
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Kilmer & Heck Speak Out Against President Trump’s Budget Proposal that Eliminates Investments in Puget Sound
Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (WA-06) and Denny Heck (WA-10), co-founders of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, spoke out against President Trump’s budget proposal which would completely eliminate several key programs that promote restoration efforts in the Puget Sound region.
“Puget Sound is an iconic body of water that is vital to our economy and to who we are as Washingtonians,” said Kilmer. “The President’s budget does not reflect this. President Trump has pledged to work for clean water and good jobs but his proposal would devastate efforts to restore shellfish beds, revitalize salmon runs, and recover the Sound for future generations. The federal government needs to be a partner in making the Sound healthy again. As Vice Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee I will fight back against this completely irresponsible plan.”
“While I’m frustrated the Trump Administration continues to attack critical funding for Puget Sound recovery, the Constitution gives Congress the ‘power of the purse,’ not the President,” said Heck. “My colleagues on both sides of the aisle have shown concern regarding the President’s budget proposal, and I look forward to working with them to prevent these thoughtless cuts.”
Clean water in Puget Sound is essential to support 3,200 shellfish jobs that generate $184 million in revenue each year. 80 percent of statewide tourism and recreational dollars are tied to Puget Sound. The state’s marine industry – which includes fishing fleets, ports, and seafood processors – generates $30 billion annually.
Every EPA dollar spent on Puget Sound recovery efforts has leveraged more than $24 in matching funds from other federal agencies and local partners, including the state, tribes, and non-profits.
The President has proposed eliminating millions of dollars in investments across several programs and agencies that all work collectively to protect clean water and promote healthy salmon and shellfish habitat throughout the Puget Sound as well as other coastal areas across the country.
These cuts include:
$28 million from the Puget Sound Geographic Program which supports grants to state, local and tribal governments to help implement Washington's Puget Sound Action Agenda.
$65 million from the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund which was established by Congress in order to prevent the extinction of 28 listed Pacific salmon and steelhead species, by supporting conservation efforts in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Alaska.
More than $700 million from State and Tribal Assistance Grants which help to support state and tribal government efforts to implement programs to promote air and water quality and meet their requirements under federal laws such as the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and the Safe Drinking Water Act.
$27 million from the National Estuary Program that supports water quality and habitat recovery efforts in the Puget Sound and 27 other estuaries throughout the country.
Congressmen Kilmer and Heck co-founded the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus in 2013 as part of their ongoing commitment to preserving Puget Sound. The three priorities of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus are: preventing pollution from urban storm water runoff, protecting and restoring habitat, and restoring and re-opening shellfish beds----from a press release posted on May 23rd.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-and-heck-speak-out-against-president-trumps-budget-proposal-that-eliminates-investments-in-puget-sound
For more news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC, and Advocacy awareness see page 2
“Puget Sound is an iconic body of water that is vital to our economy and to who we are as Washingtonians,” said Kilmer. “The President’s budget does not reflect this. President Trump has pledged to work for clean water and good jobs but his proposal would devastate efforts to restore shellfish beds, revitalize salmon runs, and recover the Sound for future generations. The federal government needs to be a partner in making the Sound healthy again. As Vice Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee I will fight back against this completely irresponsible plan.”
“While I’m frustrated the Trump Administration continues to attack critical funding for Puget Sound recovery, the Constitution gives Congress the ‘power of the purse,’ not the President,” said Heck. “My colleagues on both sides of the aisle have shown concern regarding the President’s budget proposal, and I look forward to working with them to prevent these thoughtless cuts.”
Clean water in Puget Sound is essential to support 3,200 shellfish jobs that generate $184 million in revenue each year. 80 percent of statewide tourism and recreational dollars are tied to Puget Sound. The state’s marine industry – which includes fishing fleets, ports, and seafood processors – generates $30 billion annually.
Every EPA dollar spent on Puget Sound recovery efforts has leveraged more than $24 in matching funds from other federal agencies and local partners, including the state, tribes, and non-profits.
The President has proposed eliminating millions of dollars in investments across several programs and agencies that all work collectively to protect clean water and promote healthy salmon and shellfish habitat throughout the Puget Sound as well as other coastal areas across the country.
These cuts include:
$28 million from the Puget Sound Geographic Program which supports grants to state, local and tribal governments to help implement Washington's Puget Sound Action Agenda.
$65 million from the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund which was established by Congress in order to prevent the extinction of 28 listed Pacific salmon and steelhead species, by supporting conservation efforts in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Alaska.
More than $700 million from State and Tribal Assistance Grants which help to support state and tribal government efforts to implement programs to promote air and water quality and meet their requirements under federal laws such as the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and the Safe Drinking Water Act.
$27 million from the National Estuary Program that supports water quality and habitat recovery efforts in the Puget Sound and 27 other estuaries throughout the country.
Congressmen Kilmer and Heck co-founded the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus in 2013 as part of their ongoing commitment to preserving Puget Sound. The three priorities of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus are: preventing pollution from urban storm water runoff, protecting and restoring habitat, and restoring and re-opening shellfish beds----from a press release posted on May 23rd.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-and-heck-speak-out-against-president-trumps-budget-proposal-that-eliminates-investments-in-puget-sound
For more news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC, and Advocacy awareness see page 2
Wednesday, May 24, 2017
WHITE HOUSE RELEASES THE 2018 BUDGET, SOME CLAIM IT TARGETS THE DISABLED.
First let us take a look at some white house briefings on the subject of the proposed budget:
WH: Off-camera Briefing of the FY18 Budget by Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney.
" How do we get there? Amongst other things, we’ll talk about that. We talk about this in terms of tax policy. We talk about capital investment. Right now, one of the things that touches on the budget and how we get 3 percent growth, we need folks to work. We do. We need people to go to work. If you're on food stamps, and you're able-bodied, we need you to go to work. If you're on disability insurance and you're not supposed to be -- if you're not truly disabled, we need you to go back to work. We need everybody pulling in the same direction.
I think the difference right now between the U3 and the U6 unemployment rate -- I’ll look at this, don't want to get this wrong -- remember U3 is the unemployment rate as we look at it; and then U6 is the unemployed, plus the marginally attached, plus part-time for economic reasons, right? So it’s folks who want to work more but can't. That's the difference between U3 and U6 -- U3 unemployed, U6 unemployed plus folks who aren’t working enough but want to. That's 6.8 million people. Okay? We want those folks to work. We need them to work. They want to work as evidenced by the fact they're part-time against their will.
This is one of the things the budget focuses on. We go through the various reforms that we talk about. There’s a dignity to work, and there’s a necessity to work to help the country succeed. And we need everybody to pull in the same direction."
DIRECTOR MULVANEY: "And the no’s -- well, we’ll do the -- and we’ll talk about that in a second.
The no’s were all Social Security and Medicare. That's it. He said, I promised people on the campaign trail I would not touch their retirement, and I would not touch Medicaid.
And we don't do it. I honestly was surprised that we could balance the budget without changing those programs, but we manage to do that. We’ll talk about how we did that in a second.
At the same time, before I get the question -- people are going to say, oh, but Social Security disability insurance is part of Social Security. If you ask 999 people out of 1,000 would tell you that Social Security disability is not part of Social Security. It’s old-age retirement that they think of when they think of Social Security. In fact, the paid parental leave program that we are running, we are running it through the unemployment insurance program. And I think a couple of states right now actually that do it at the state level run it through their disability program. That does not mean that paid parental leave is unemployment or disability any more than the Social Security disability insurance program is part of Social Security. It just happens to be where they are structured."
Q But how do you stand behind a budget that doesn't deal with those two issues? I understand the President doesn't want to. But you voted for programs that -- in that past that --
DIRECTOR MULVANEY: I absolutely did. And I made the case for why those programs needed to be reformed. The President said, no, I’m going to keep my promises.
And I said, well, I’d still like to balance the budget.
He goes, I still want you to balance the budget, just don't do it changing these programs.
And we were able to do it. You asked the question about, how does 3 percent economic growth contribute to that? It actually does help the program, as you can probably imagine, as more people go into work -- and the President talked about this a little bit I think on the campaign trail -- as people come -- that U3-U6 split, which again is like 6 million people, if those folks go back to work full-time, they're now paying into the system. If the folks who are on Social Security disability insurance who are not supposed to be, if they go back to work, they're paying into the system, and they're not taking out of the system. So it does make the programs healthier. It does not solve their long-term deficiencies.
See full White House press briefing: https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/05/22/camera-briefing-fy18-budge-omb-director-mulvaney
Editorial Note: I agree that only people should be getting assistance from governmental benefits, are truly disabled, and can't work. Not those who have two good legs, and arms, who can work yet, get government handouts, like food stamps, and disability pension. I think this is what the proposed 2018 budget is addressing, not the following story which sets the tone just by the words they use to make Trump out as a person who is a bigot toward people with disabilities.
CENTER FOR AMERICAN PROGRESS: President Donald Trump’s hateful rhetoric about people with disabilities during the presidential campaign is no longer just words. Now his budget threatens to set disability rights and inclusion back 50 years or more by stripping away critical protections and slashing vital programs that ensure basic living standards for the 1 in 5 Americans with disabilities. Meanwhile, despite media reports to the contrary, his budget breaks one of his core campaign promises: not to cut Social Security.
President Trump’s budget proposal would be especially damaging to veterans and people living in rural areas, who are especially likely to be disabled. What’s more, his budget proposals would disproportionately harm the very areas that shifted toward Trump during the 2016 election. New analysis from the Center for American Progress reveals that in counties that shifted most heavily toward Trump in 2016—where he performed at least 15 percentage points better than Mitt Romney in 2012—the share of people who report having a disability is 28 percent higher than the national average. Here is how President Trump’s budget would harm people with disabilities.
See full article: https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/economy/news/2017/05/23/432851/trump-budgets-attack-people-disabilities/
Editorial comment: Note the language being used in the article, you can tell the authors are just out to cause fear, and blinded by their own hate toward Trump to see how things really are in the disability community. Many would happy as clams if they were able to break free from the chains of governmental hand outs, and be making money on their own. However, there are those out there who commit welfare, and medicare fraud the above article never even mentions. It's time to weed out the dead beats who have been taking money from those who are really in need. Read what was actually been said in the White House briefing, and compared to what was reported in the Center for American Progress, and ask, who is it really preventing all in America towards progress in becoming self sufficient. It sounds to me those who want to keep disabled in the poor house are the ones who wants to keep the disabled (like me) be subject to whims the democratic party, what do you think? It's the DEMOCRATS who want us to be kept in poverty!
Related stories: US DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELEASES FISCAL YEAR 2018 BUDGET REQUEST
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta today released the fiscal year 2018 budget request for the U.S. Department of Labor. It supports President Donald J. Trump’s plan to invest in priorities that will help American workers develop the necessary skills to meet the demands of a 21st century economy and get good, safe jobs, provide working families access to paid leave, assist employers in meeting their responsibilities under worker protection laws, and restore fiscal responsibility.
Refocuses the department’s commitment to people with disabilities by launching a new demonstration project, jointly funded with the Social Security Administration, to test interventions that promote the labor force participation of people with disabilities and prevent permanent labor force detachment resulting from illness or injury.
https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/opa/opa20170523
Editorial note: Does this sound like an administration who hate's people with disabilities?
For more national news headlines see page 2
WH: Off-camera Briefing of the FY18 Budget by Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney.
" How do we get there? Amongst other things, we’ll talk about that. We talk about this in terms of tax policy. We talk about capital investment. Right now, one of the things that touches on the budget and how we get 3 percent growth, we need folks to work. We do. We need people to go to work. If you're on food stamps, and you're able-bodied, we need you to go to work. If you're on disability insurance and you're not supposed to be -- if you're not truly disabled, we need you to go back to work. We need everybody pulling in the same direction.
I think the difference right now between the U3 and the U6 unemployment rate -- I’ll look at this, don't want to get this wrong -- remember U3 is the unemployment rate as we look at it; and then U6 is the unemployed, plus the marginally attached, plus part-time for economic reasons, right? So it’s folks who want to work more but can't. That's the difference between U3 and U6 -- U3 unemployed, U6 unemployed plus folks who aren’t working enough but want to. That's 6.8 million people. Okay? We want those folks to work. We need them to work. They want to work as evidenced by the fact they're part-time against their will.
This is one of the things the budget focuses on. We go through the various reforms that we talk about. There’s a dignity to work, and there’s a necessity to work to help the country succeed. And we need everybody to pull in the same direction."
DIRECTOR MULVANEY: "And the no’s -- well, we’ll do the -- and we’ll talk about that in a second.
The no’s were all Social Security and Medicare. That's it. He said, I promised people on the campaign trail I would not touch their retirement, and I would not touch Medicaid.
And we don't do it. I honestly was surprised that we could balance the budget without changing those programs, but we manage to do that. We’ll talk about how we did that in a second.
At the same time, before I get the question -- people are going to say, oh, but Social Security disability insurance is part of Social Security. If you ask 999 people out of 1,000 would tell you that Social Security disability is not part of Social Security. It’s old-age retirement that they think of when they think of Social Security. In fact, the paid parental leave program that we are running, we are running it through the unemployment insurance program. And I think a couple of states right now actually that do it at the state level run it through their disability program. That does not mean that paid parental leave is unemployment or disability any more than the Social Security disability insurance program is part of Social Security. It just happens to be where they are structured."
Q But how do you stand behind a budget that doesn't deal with those two issues? I understand the President doesn't want to. But you voted for programs that -- in that past that --
DIRECTOR MULVANEY: I absolutely did. And I made the case for why those programs needed to be reformed. The President said, no, I’m going to keep my promises.
And I said, well, I’d still like to balance the budget.
He goes, I still want you to balance the budget, just don't do it changing these programs.
And we were able to do it. You asked the question about, how does 3 percent economic growth contribute to that? It actually does help the program, as you can probably imagine, as more people go into work -- and the President talked about this a little bit I think on the campaign trail -- as people come -- that U3-U6 split, which again is like 6 million people, if those folks go back to work full-time, they're now paying into the system. If the folks who are on Social Security disability insurance who are not supposed to be, if they go back to work, they're paying into the system, and they're not taking out of the system. So it does make the programs healthier. It does not solve their long-term deficiencies.
See full White House press briefing: https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/05/22/camera-briefing-fy18-budge-omb-director-mulvaney
Editorial Note: I agree that only people should be getting assistance from governmental benefits, are truly disabled, and can't work. Not those who have two good legs, and arms, who can work yet, get government handouts, like food stamps, and disability pension. I think this is what the proposed 2018 budget is addressing, not the following story which sets the tone just by the words they use to make Trump out as a person who is a bigot toward people with disabilities.
CENTER FOR AMERICAN PROGRESS: President Donald Trump’s hateful rhetoric about people with disabilities during the presidential campaign is no longer just words. Now his budget threatens to set disability rights and inclusion back 50 years or more by stripping away critical protections and slashing vital programs that ensure basic living standards for the 1 in 5 Americans with disabilities. Meanwhile, despite media reports to the contrary, his budget breaks one of his core campaign promises: not to cut Social Security.
President Trump’s budget proposal would be especially damaging to veterans and people living in rural areas, who are especially likely to be disabled. What’s more, his budget proposals would disproportionately harm the very areas that shifted toward Trump during the 2016 election. New analysis from the Center for American Progress reveals that in counties that shifted most heavily toward Trump in 2016—where he performed at least 15 percentage points better than Mitt Romney in 2012—the share of people who report having a disability is 28 percent higher than the national average. Here is how President Trump’s budget would harm people with disabilities.
See full article: https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/economy/news/2017/05/23/432851/trump-budgets-attack-people-disabilities/
Editorial comment: Note the language being used in the article, you can tell the authors are just out to cause fear, and blinded by their own hate toward Trump to see how things really are in the disability community. Many would happy as clams if they were able to break free from the chains of governmental hand outs, and be making money on their own. However, there are those out there who commit welfare, and medicare fraud the above article never even mentions. It's time to weed out the dead beats who have been taking money from those who are really in need. Read what was actually been said in the White House briefing, and compared to what was reported in the Center for American Progress, and ask, who is it really preventing all in America towards progress in becoming self sufficient. It sounds to me those who want to keep disabled in the poor house are the ones who wants to keep the disabled (like me) be subject to whims the democratic party, what do you think? It's the DEMOCRATS who want us to be kept in poverty!
Related stories: US DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELEASES FISCAL YEAR 2018 BUDGET REQUEST
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta today released the fiscal year 2018 budget request for the U.S. Department of Labor. It supports President Donald J. Trump’s plan to invest in priorities that will help American workers develop the necessary skills to meet the demands of a 21st century economy and get good, safe jobs, provide working families access to paid leave, assist employers in meeting their responsibilities under worker protection laws, and restore fiscal responsibility.
Refocuses the department’s commitment to people with disabilities by launching a new demonstration project, jointly funded with the Social Security Administration, to test interventions that promote the labor force participation of people with disabilities and prevent permanent labor force detachment resulting from illness or injury.
https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/opa/opa20170523
Editorial note: Does this sound like an administration who hate's people with disabilities?
For more national news headlines see page 2
Tuesday, May 23, 2017
UN: Deeply Concerned by Military Escalation in Libya following Attack on Air Base, Secretary-General Calls upon All Parties to Exercise Restraint
The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:
The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the military escalation at the Brak al-Shati air base in southern Libya and calls on all parties to exercise restraint and restore calm. He is particularly disturbed by the high number of fatalities as well as reports of summary executions of civilians, which, if confirmed, may constitute war crimes. The continued insecurity in Libya is a reminder that there is no military solution. The Secretary-General therefore urges all key Libyan stakeholders to recommit to the political dialogue and engage constructively towards that goal.
The Secretary-General appreciates the efforts of a number of regional and neighbouring countries for their contributions aimed at strengthening the dialogue between key stakeholders in support of the overall United Nations-led process.---from press release issued 5. 23. 17
http://www.un.org/press/en/2017/sgsm18526.doc.htm
For more world news and events see page 2
The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the military escalation at the Brak al-Shati air base in southern Libya and calls on all parties to exercise restraint and restore calm. He is particularly disturbed by the high number of fatalities as well as reports of summary executions of civilians, which, if confirmed, may constitute war crimes. The continued insecurity in Libya is a reminder that there is no military solution. The Secretary-General therefore urges all key Libyan stakeholders to recommit to the political dialogue and engage constructively towards that goal.
The Secretary-General appreciates the efforts of a number of regional and neighbouring countries for their contributions aimed at strengthening the dialogue between key stakeholders in support of the overall United Nations-led process.---from press release issued 5. 23. 17
http://www.un.org/press/en/2017/sgsm18526.doc.htm
For more world news and events see page 2
Monday, May 22, 2017
U.S. Department of Commerce Initiates Investigation of Imports of Civil Aircraft from Canada
“The U.S. market is the most open in the world, but we must take action if our rules are being broken” said Secretary Ross. “While assuring the case is decided strictly on a full and fair assessment of the facts, we will do everything in our power to stand up for American companies and their workers.”
If the Commerce Department determines that Canadian civil aircraft are being dumped into the U.S. market, and/or receiving unfair government subsidies -- and the U.S. International Trade Commission determines that dumped and/or unfairly subsidized Canadian imports of civil aircraft into the United States are causing harm to the U.S. industry -- then the Commerce Department will impose duties on those imports in the amount of the dumping and/or unfair subsidization found to exist.
Although Canadian civil aircraft subject to these investigations have not yet been imported into the United States, an April 2016 press release announcing the sale of Canadian civil aircraft to a U.S. airline valued the order to be in excess of $5 billion.
The estimated dumping margin alleged by the petitioner is 79.82 percent and the unfair subsidies are estimated to be 79.41. Commerce has initiated an investigation into 14 alleged subsidy programs.
Next Steps:
During the Commerce Department investigations into whether Canadian civil aircraft are being dumped and subsidized, the U.S. International Trade Commission will conduct its own investigations into whether the U.S. industry and its workforce are being harmed by such imports. The ITC will make its preliminary determinations on or before June 12. If the ITC preliminarily determines that there is threat of injury then the Commerce Department investigations will continue, with a preliminary countervailing duty determination in July 2017, followed by a preliminary antidumping determination in October 2017, unless these deadlines are extended.
If the Commerce Department preliminarily determines that dumping or subsidization is occurring, then it will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to start collecting cash deposits from all U.S. companies importing the subject civil aircraft from Canada.
Final determinations by the Commerce Department in these cases are scheduled for October 2017 for the countervailing duty investigation, and December 2017 for the antidumping duty investigation, but those dates may be extended. If either the Commerce Department does not find that products are being dumped or unfairly subsidized, or the U.S. International Trade Commission does not find in its final determination there is harm to the U.S. industry, then the investigations will be terminated and no duties will be applied.---From a press release issued May 18th.
See full statement: https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2017/05/us-department-commerce-initiates-investigation-imports-civil-aircraft
For more business and finance news see page 2
If the Commerce Department determines that Canadian civil aircraft are being dumped into the U.S. market, and/or receiving unfair government subsidies -- and the U.S. International Trade Commission determines that dumped and/or unfairly subsidized Canadian imports of civil aircraft into the United States are causing harm to the U.S. industry -- then the Commerce Department will impose duties on those imports in the amount of the dumping and/or unfair subsidization found to exist.
Although Canadian civil aircraft subject to these investigations have not yet been imported into the United States, an April 2016 press release announcing the sale of Canadian civil aircraft to a U.S. airline valued the order to be in excess of $5 billion.
The estimated dumping margin alleged by the petitioner is 79.82 percent and the unfair subsidies are estimated to be 79.41. Commerce has initiated an investigation into 14 alleged subsidy programs.
Next Steps:
During the Commerce Department investigations into whether Canadian civil aircraft are being dumped and subsidized, the U.S. International Trade Commission will conduct its own investigations into whether the U.S. industry and its workforce are being harmed by such imports. The ITC will make its preliminary determinations on or before June 12. If the ITC preliminarily determines that there is threat of injury then the Commerce Department investigations will continue, with a preliminary countervailing duty determination in July 2017, followed by a preliminary antidumping determination in October 2017, unless these deadlines are extended.
If the Commerce Department preliminarily determines that dumping or subsidization is occurring, then it will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to start collecting cash deposits from all U.S. companies importing the subject civil aircraft from Canada.
Final determinations by the Commerce Department in these cases are scheduled for October 2017 for the countervailing duty investigation, and December 2017 for the antidumping duty investigation, but those dates may be extended. If either the Commerce Department does not find that products are being dumped or unfairly subsidized, or the U.S. International Trade Commission does not find in its final determination there is harm to the U.S. industry, then the investigations will be terminated and no duties will be applied.---From a press release issued May 18th.
See full statement: https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2017/05/us-department-commerce-initiates-investigation-imports-civil-aircraft
For more business and finance news see page 2
Saturday, May 20, 2017
Port Announces New Tenant at Airport Industrial Park
The Port of Port Angeles is pleased to announce that Airborne Environmental Control Systems (AECS), a New York-based aerospace company, has signed a five-year lease for 5,000 square feet in the Multi-Tenant Industrial Building at the Port’s Airport Industrial Park to set up manufacturing operations. They currently have substantial military contracts with several key Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM). AECS works directly with companies such as Raytheon, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Boeing, Airbus Defense and Sierra Nevada Corporation. AECS also engages in opportunities with several international entities who support DoD, NATO and joint allied initiatives.
AECS will initially invest over $200,000 in tenant improvements as part of its phased move to Port Angeles. AECS plans to invest in design, development, rapid prototyping and high tech manufacturing equipment at the Port Angeles site, and wants to expand to 15,000-25,000 square feet in future years. The company estimates that 18 to 20 employees will be hired in the first year, and a total of 80 to 100 over a period of five years as AECS grows and additional products are produced in-house.
AECS designs and manufactures airborne environmental control systems (ECS) for both airborne and ground-based military platforms, as well as thermal solutions for fixed and rotary wing aircraft cabin and avionics cooling systems. Its founder and CEO William (Bill) Lee grew up in Joyce, and has family in Clallam County. Mr. Lee has over 30 years of experience in the aerospace Industry with Fortune 500 companies such as Rockwell Collins, GE Aviation, Moog and Boeing, including 17 years living outside of the US supporting commercial aerospace, the US Department of Defense and NATO.
From the AECS web site: “The highly flexible, scalable nature of our products makes them a perfect fit for markets around the world, including defense contractors, the military, security agencies and civil aviation. Regardless of application complexity or mission demands, AECS systems deliver a strategic advantage thanks to their ultralight construction and unprecedented thermal control.”
“We are excited about having a very high quality aerospace manufacturer come to Port Angeles and have Bill Lee ‘come back home’ after his travels and work around the world,” stated Port Commissioner, Connie Beauvais. “Adding this business to the cadre of family wage jobs in our county will help provide career opportunities for our young adults.”
The cooperation and efforts of Impact Washington, the Washington Business Alliance and the Washington State Department of Commerce were integral in bringing Airborne ECS, Inc. to Clallam County.
“We are delighted to welcome Airborne ECS to Washington! Commerce’s top priority is strengthening communities through strong local partnerships,” stated Brian Bonlender, Washington State Commerce Director. “This project is a fine example of what can be achieved by putting a rural focus on our aerospace sector strategy for economic development. Thank you to Impact Washington, Clallam County EDC, the Port of Port Angeles and everyone who played a role in delivering good jobs and growth potential to the Port Angeles community.” ---press release issued May 18th
http://www.portofpa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=147
To learn more about AECS, visit http://airborneecs.com/
For more local news and happenings see page 2
AECS will initially invest over $200,000 in tenant improvements as part of its phased move to Port Angeles. AECS plans to invest in design, development, rapid prototyping and high tech manufacturing equipment at the Port Angeles site, and wants to expand to 15,000-25,000 square feet in future years. The company estimates that 18 to 20 employees will be hired in the first year, and a total of 80 to 100 over a period of five years as AECS grows and additional products are produced in-house.
AECS designs and manufactures airborne environmental control systems (ECS) for both airborne and ground-based military platforms, as well as thermal solutions for fixed and rotary wing aircraft cabin and avionics cooling systems. Its founder and CEO William (Bill) Lee grew up in Joyce, and has family in Clallam County. Mr. Lee has over 30 years of experience in the aerospace Industry with Fortune 500 companies such as Rockwell Collins, GE Aviation, Moog and Boeing, including 17 years living outside of the US supporting commercial aerospace, the US Department of Defense and NATO.
From the AECS web site: “The highly flexible, scalable nature of our products makes them a perfect fit for markets around the world, including defense contractors, the military, security agencies and civil aviation. Regardless of application complexity or mission demands, AECS systems deliver a strategic advantage thanks to their ultralight construction and unprecedented thermal control.”
“We are excited about having a very high quality aerospace manufacturer come to Port Angeles and have Bill Lee ‘come back home’ after his travels and work around the world,” stated Port Commissioner, Connie Beauvais. “Adding this business to the cadre of family wage jobs in our county will help provide career opportunities for our young adults.”
The cooperation and efforts of Impact Washington, the Washington Business Alliance and the Washington State Department of Commerce were integral in bringing Airborne ECS, Inc. to Clallam County.
“We are delighted to welcome Airborne ECS to Washington! Commerce’s top priority is strengthening communities through strong local partnerships,” stated Brian Bonlender, Washington State Commerce Director. “This project is a fine example of what can be achieved by putting a rural focus on our aerospace sector strategy for economic development. Thank you to Impact Washington, Clallam County EDC, the Port of Port Angeles and everyone who played a role in delivering good jobs and growth potential to the Port Angeles community.” ---press release issued May 18th
http://www.portofpa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=147
To learn more about AECS, visit http://airborneecs.com/
For more local news and happenings see page 2
Friday, May 19, 2017
KILMER: House Democrat Budget & Appropriations Leaders Call on Congress to Raise the Spending Caps
Washington, D.C. – Today House Budget Committee Ranking Member John Yarmuth, House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Nita Lowey, Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer, House Budget Committee Vice Ranking Member Pramila Jayapal, and House Appropriations Committee Vice Ranking Member Derek Kilmer joined with representatives from NDD United at a press conference calling on Congress to raise the 2018 spending caps. If no action is taken, Congress will face irresponsible and arbitrary austerity-level caps that threaten our country’s economy, security, and standing as a global leader.
The members also called for Congress to continue the tradition of parity—equal amounts of spending increases for defense and nondefense programs—that previous bipartisan agreements on the spending caps have implemented. In contrast, President Trump’s budget blueprint increased defense spending levels at the expense of nondefense investments, a short-sighted and cold-hearted proposal that guts services and programs vital to American families.
“The current 2018 spending caps are far too low and would leave our country unable to make investments critical to our families, our economy, and our security,” said Yarmuth. “Unfortunately, President Trump’s budget blueprint takes us in the wrong direction, cutting even more funding for programs that support health research, environmental protection, housing programs, diplomacy initiatives, and much more. Members of Congress of both parties have the responsibility – and the opportunity -- to invest in both non-defense and defense spending, boost economic development, and guarantee that every American family has the chance to build a better future. We’ve raised the caps in a bipartisan manner before, and we must do so again.”
“A failure to raise existing spending caps on defense and nondefense – combined with our late start and an erratic President who seems to want a government shutdown – would set this year’s Appropriations process up for failure,” said Lowey. “We need a budget framework that makes it possible for Congress to pass responsible spending bills, and fulfill our responsibilities at home and abroad. Democrats will again work in good faith in this critical process, but we will not help pass spending bills that jeopardize investments in hardworking American families.”
"I was proud to stand with my Democratic colleagues and NDD United this morning to call for robust investment in our domestic priorities," said Hoyer. "On Tuesday, the President is expected to unveil a budget that busts through spending caps for defense while slashing domestic investment, which are also critical to our defense. We can't have a secure nation if our citizens aren't educated, aren't healthy, and don't have access to opportunities. Democrats will continue to demand parity between defense and non-defense spending, and I urge my Republican colleagues to reject the Trump budget and work with us to raise the caps."
"This budget is more than just numbers on a page—it represents our moral values and our commitment to the future of this country. Trump’s proposed budget eliminates funding for crucial Community Development Block Grants like Meals on Wheels and Head Start programs for kids, it slashes funding from the EPA and eliminates 3,200 jobs across the country," said Jayapal. "It is a cruel joke on working people. We need a budget that makes us healthier, safer and better off. Now is the time to invest in communities, working families and job growth—that’s an effective budget, and it’s the vision I intend to fight for."---From a press release issued May 18th Congressman Kilmer.
Read more: http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-democrat-budget-and-appropriations-leaders-call-on-congress-to-raise-the-spending-caps
For News from OLYMPIA and other state news see page 2
NEWS NOTEBOOK
Check out my new essay page
The members also called for Congress to continue the tradition of parity—equal amounts of spending increases for defense and nondefense programs—that previous bipartisan agreements on the spending caps have implemented. In contrast, President Trump’s budget blueprint increased defense spending levels at the expense of nondefense investments, a short-sighted and cold-hearted proposal that guts services and programs vital to American families.
“The current 2018 spending caps are far too low and would leave our country unable to make investments critical to our families, our economy, and our security,” said Yarmuth. “Unfortunately, President Trump’s budget blueprint takes us in the wrong direction, cutting even more funding for programs that support health research, environmental protection, housing programs, diplomacy initiatives, and much more. Members of Congress of both parties have the responsibility – and the opportunity -- to invest in both non-defense and defense spending, boost economic development, and guarantee that every American family has the chance to build a better future. We’ve raised the caps in a bipartisan manner before, and we must do so again.”
“A failure to raise existing spending caps on defense and nondefense – combined with our late start and an erratic President who seems to want a government shutdown – would set this year’s Appropriations process up for failure,” said Lowey. “We need a budget framework that makes it possible for Congress to pass responsible spending bills, and fulfill our responsibilities at home and abroad. Democrats will again work in good faith in this critical process, but we will not help pass spending bills that jeopardize investments in hardworking American families.”
"I was proud to stand with my Democratic colleagues and NDD United this morning to call for robust investment in our domestic priorities," said Hoyer. "On Tuesday, the President is expected to unveil a budget that busts through spending caps for defense while slashing domestic investment, which are also critical to our defense. We can't have a secure nation if our citizens aren't educated, aren't healthy, and don't have access to opportunities. Democrats will continue to demand parity between defense and non-defense spending, and I urge my Republican colleagues to reject the Trump budget and work with us to raise the caps."
"This budget is more than just numbers on a page—it represents our moral values and our commitment to the future of this country. Trump’s proposed budget eliminates funding for crucial Community Development Block Grants like Meals on Wheels and Head Start programs for kids, it slashes funding from the EPA and eliminates 3,200 jobs across the country," said Jayapal. "It is a cruel joke on working people. We need a budget that makes us healthier, safer and better off. Now is the time to invest in communities, working families and job growth—that’s an effective budget, and it’s the vision I intend to fight for."---From a press release issued May 18th Congressman Kilmer.
Read more: http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-democrat-budget-and-appropriations-leaders-call-on-congress-to-raise-the-spending-caps
For News from OLYMPIA and other state news see page 2
NEWS NOTEBOOK
Check out my new essay page
Thursday, May 18, 2017
KILMER: New Zealand Embassy hosts Regional D.C. Fly-In delegation
As part of the 2017 Regional D.C. Fly-In we were honored to be hosted at the New Zealand Embassy for an international trade policy reception. Attendees heard from New Zealand Ambassador Timothy Groser and Congressman Derek Kilmer on the importance of trade, good trade policy, and diplomacy.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/new-zealand-embassy-hosts-regional-dc-fly-in-delegation
Deploying service members could end TV, internet contracts without fees under Costello bill
Deploying active-duty service members could terminate television and internet service contracts without penalty under bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S Rep. Ryan Costello (R-PA) last week.
The measure, which Costello introduced with U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA), would expand protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to ensure active-duty troops aren’t penalized with termination fees when they’re given orders to move or deploy.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/deploying-service-members-could-end-tv-internet-contracts-without-fees-under-costello-bill
Congressman Kilmer: Trump won't deal with voter suppression
U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer slammed President Trump for making “spurious claims” of voter fraud following the announcement of a new executive order Thursday calling for a new commission to examine voting irregularities.
The president has claimed — without a hint of evidence — that millions of people illegally cast votes in the November 2016 election. Trump lost the popular vote by approximately 3 million votes, but gained the presidency through a win in the Electoral College.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/congressman-kilmer-trump-wont-deal-with-voter-suppression
GAO Requested to Study Restoring FAA Commercial Space Office to Secretary's Level
Three members of the House have sent a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting a study on the feasibility of elevating the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA's) Office of Commercial Space Transportation (FAA/AST) to the Secretary of Transportation's office. Advocates believe that would facilitate getting needed financial and personnel resources to allow the office to fulfill its duties as the commercial space launch business expands.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/gao-requested-to-study-restoring-faa-commercial-space-office-to-secretarys-level
Murphy, Kilmer Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Declaring May as “Mental Health Month”
WASHINGTON, DC - Today Rep. Tim Murphy (R-PA) and Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA) introduced H.R. 320, a bipartisan resolution declaring May as "Mental Health Month," to bring awareness for the need to address our nation's mental health and addiction crisis. While over 43 million Americans suffer from mental illness, and nearly 10 million suffer from severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, too many go without evidence-based treatment. Every day, 950 lives are lost, directly or indirectly, to mental illness.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/murphy-kilmer-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-declaring-may-as-mental-health-month
For more news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC, and our Advocacy Notebook see page 2
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/new-zealand-embassy-hosts-regional-dc-fly-in-delegation
Deploying service members could end TV, internet contracts without fees under Costello bill
Deploying active-duty service members could terminate television and internet service contracts without penalty under bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S Rep. Ryan Costello (R-PA) last week.
The measure, which Costello introduced with U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA), would expand protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to ensure active-duty troops aren’t penalized with termination fees when they’re given orders to move or deploy.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/deploying-service-members-could-end-tv-internet-contracts-without-fees-under-costello-bill
Congressman Kilmer: Trump won't deal with voter suppression
U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer slammed President Trump for making “spurious claims” of voter fraud following the announcement of a new executive order Thursday calling for a new commission to examine voting irregularities.
The president has claimed — without a hint of evidence — that millions of people illegally cast votes in the November 2016 election. Trump lost the popular vote by approximately 3 million votes, but gained the presidency through a win in the Electoral College.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/congressman-kilmer-trump-wont-deal-with-voter-suppression
GAO Requested to Study Restoring FAA Commercial Space Office to Secretary's Level
Three members of the House have sent a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting a study on the feasibility of elevating the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA's) Office of Commercial Space Transportation (FAA/AST) to the Secretary of Transportation's office. Advocates believe that would facilitate getting needed financial and personnel resources to allow the office to fulfill its duties as the commercial space launch business expands.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/gao-requested-to-study-restoring-faa-commercial-space-office-to-secretarys-level
Murphy, Kilmer Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Declaring May as “Mental Health Month”
WASHINGTON, DC - Today Rep. Tim Murphy (R-PA) and Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA) introduced H.R. 320, a bipartisan resolution declaring May as "Mental Health Month," to bring awareness for the need to address our nation's mental health and addiction crisis. While over 43 million Americans suffer from mental illness, and nearly 10 million suffer from severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, too many go without evidence-based treatment. Every day, 950 lives are lost, directly or indirectly, to mental illness.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/murphy-kilmer-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-declaring-may-as-mental-health-month
For more news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC, and our Advocacy Notebook see page 2
Wednesday, May 17, 2017
WH: Presidential Executive Order on the Establishment of Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in order to promote fair and honest Federal elections, it is hereby ordered as follows:
Section 1. Establishment. The Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity (Commission) is hereby established.
Sec. 2. Membership. The Vice President shall chair the Commission, which shall be composed of not more than 15 additional members. The President shall appoint the additional members, who shall include individuals with knowledge and experience in elections, election management, election fraud detection, and voter integrity efforts, and any other individuals with knowledge or experience that the President determines to be of value to the Commission. The Vice President may select a Vice Chair of the Commission from among the members appointed by the President.
Sec. 3. Mission. The Commission shall, consistent with applicable law, study the registration and voting processes used in Federal elections. The Commission shall be solely advisory and shall submit a report to the President that identifies the following:
(a) those laws, rules, policies, activities, strategies, and practices that enhance the American people's confidence in the integrity of the voting processes used in Federal elections;
(b) those laws, rules, policies, activities, strategies, and practices that undermine the American people's confidence in the integrity of the voting processes used in Federal elections; and
(c) those vulnerabilities in voting systems and practices used for Federal elections that could lead to improper voter registrations and improper voting, including fraudulent voter registrations and fraudulent voting.
Sec. 4. Definitions. For purposes of this order:
(a) The term "improper voter registration" means any situation where an individual who does not possess the legal right to vote in a jurisdiction is included as an eligible voter on that jurisdiction's voter list, regardless of the state of mind or intent of such individual
(b) The term "improper voting" means the act of an individual casting a non-provisional ballot in a jurisdiction in which that individual is ineligible to vote, or the act of an individual casting a ballot in multiple jurisdictions, regardless of the state of mind or intent of that individual.
(c) The term "fraudulent voter registration" means any situation where an individual knowingly and intentionally takes steps to add ineligible individuals to voter lists.
(d) The term "fraudulent voting" means the act of casting a non-provisional ballot or multiple ballots with knowledge that casting the ballot or ballots is illegal.
Sec. 5. Administration. The Commission shall hold public meetings and engage with Federal, State, and local officials, and election law experts, as necessary, to carry out its mission. The Commission shall be informed by, and shall strive to avoid duplicating, the efforts of existing government entities. The Commission shall have staff to provide support for its functions.
Sec. 6. Termination. The Commission shall terminate 30 days after it submits its report to the President.
Sec. 7. General Provisions. (a) To the extent permitted by law, and subject to the availability of appropriations, the General Services Administration shall provide the Commission with such administrative services, funds, facilities, staff, equipment, and other support services as may be necessary to carry out its mission on a reimbursable basis.
(b) Relevant executive departments and agencies shall endeavor to cooperate with the Commission.
(c) Insofar as the Federal Advisory Committee Act, as amended (5 U.S.C. App.) (the "Act"), may apply to the Commission, any functions of the President under that Act, except for those in section 6 of the Act, shall be performed by the Administrator of General Services.
(d) Members of the Commission shall serve without any additional compensation for their work on the Commission, but shall be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, to the extent permitted by law for persons serving intermittently in the Government service (5 U.S.C. 5701-5707).
e) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(f) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(g) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
DONALD J. TRUMP THE WHITE HOUSE, May 11, 2017.
Source The White House posted May 11th
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/05/11/presidential-executive-order-establishment-presidential-advisory
For more national news headlines see page 2
Section 1. Establishment. The Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity (Commission) is hereby established.
Sec. 2. Membership. The Vice President shall chair the Commission, which shall be composed of not more than 15 additional members. The President shall appoint the additional members, who shall include individuals with knowledge and experience in elections, election management, election fraud detection, and voter integrity efforts, and any other individuals with knowledge or experience that the President determines to be of value to the Commission. The Vice President may select a Vice Chair of the Commission from among the members appointed by the President.
Sec. 3. Mission. The Commission shall, consistent with applicable law, study the registration and voting processes used in Federal elections. The Commission shall be solely advisory and shall submit a report to the President that identifies the following:
(a) those laws, rules, policies, activities, strategies, and practices that enhance the American people's confidence in the integrity of the voting processes used in Federal elections;
(b) those laws, rules, policies, activities, strategies, and practices that undermine the American people's confidence in the integrity of the voting processes used in Federal elections; and
(c) those vulnerabilities in voting systems and practices used for Federal elections that could lead to improper voter registrations and improper voting, including fraudulent voter registrations and fraudulent voting.
Sec. 4. Definitions. For purposes of this order:
(a) The term "improper voter registration" means any situation where an individual who does not possess the legal right to vote in a jurisdiction is included as an eligible voter on that jurisdiction's voter list, regardless of the state of mind or intent of such individual
(b) The term "improper voting" means the act of an individual casting a non-provisional ballot in a jurisdiction in which that individual is ineligible to vote, or the act of an individual casting a ballot in multiple jurisdictions, regardless of the state of mind or intent of that individual.
(c) The term "fraudulent voter registration" means any situation where an individual knowingly and intentionally takes steps to add ineligible individuals to voter lists.
(d) The term "fraudulent voting" means the act of casting a non-provisional ballot or multiple ballots with knowledge that casting the ballot or ballots is illegal.
Sec. 5. Administration. The Commission shall hold public meetings and engage with Federal, State, and local officials, and election law experts, as necessary, to carry out its mission. The Commission shall be informed by, and shall strive to avoid duplicating, the efforts of existing government entities. The Commission shall have staff to provide support for its functions.
Sec. 6. Termination. The Commission shall terminate 30 days after it submits its report to the President.
Sec. 7. General Provisions. (a) To the extent permitted by law, and subject to the availability of appropriations, the General Services Administration shall provide the Commission with such administrative services, funds, facilities, staff, equipment, and other support services as may be necessary to carry out its mission on a reimbursable basis.
(b) Relevant executive departments and agencies shall endeavor to cooperate with the Commission.
(c) Insofar as the Federal Advisory Committee Act, as amended (5 U.S.C. App.) (the "Act"), may apply to the Commission, any functions of the President under that Act, except for those in section 6 of the Act, shall be performed by the Administrator of General Services.
(d) Members of the Commission shall serve without any additional compensation for their work on the Commission, but shall be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, to the extent permitted by law for persons serving intermittently in the Government service (5 U.S.C. 5701-5707).
e) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(f) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(g) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
DONALD J. TRUMP THE WHITE HOUSE, May 11, 2017.
Source The White House posted May 11th
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/05/11/presidential-executive-order-establishment-presidential-advisory
For more national news headlines see page 2
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