FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO DC

Cantwell, Murray, WA House Dems to Trump Admin: “Listen to Our Fishermen” and Save Bristol Bay, WA Fishing Jobs
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 11/ 17 (link source)
Decision flies in the face of science and basic reason, made with no public input or hearings for Washington state fishermen or business groups

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA), U.S. Representatives Adam Smith (WA-09), Denny Heck (WA-10), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), and 36 of their Senate and House colleagues sent a forceful letter to President Trump urging him listen to Washington fisherman and businesses before removing the science-based environmental rules that protect Alaska’s Bristol Bay and the livelihoods of thousands of Washington state fishermen who fish in the watershed.
Removing the existing clean water protections allows for the construction of Pebble Mine, an open-pit copper and gold mine that could have a depth equivalent to as much as two and a half Trump Towers. The mine would be an unmitigated catastrophe for the Bristol Bay watershed and the 40-60 million salmon who return to it every year. A three-year Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) study in 2014 found that the proposed mine would, even in the course of normal, safe mine operations, destroy 24 to 94 miles of salmon-producing waterways and pristine environment.
The University of Alaska Institute of Social and Economic Research found that the Bristol Bay fishery supports more than 14,000 jobs and adds $674 million of economic activity to the states of Washington, Oregon, and California. The region also supports a prolific outdoor recreation industry; anglers from around the world take roughly 37,000 fishing trips annually to Bristol Bay, generating $60 million in economic activity.

“The EPA’s plan to reverse clean water safeguards is egregious and inconsistent with science, and frankly, inconsistent with basic logic,” wrote the members of Congress. “The Pebble Mine directly threatens our maritime economy and thousands of American jobs that rely on this world class fishery. We ask you to listen to America’s fishermen and businesses and reverse EPA’s decision to undo strong protections and clean water safeguards in Bristol Bay.”
The members of Congress note the process that established the current clean water safeguards were the result of rigorous scientific analysis and peer review, over one million public comments, and eight public hearings.
In stark contrast, the Trump Administration’s recent decision to roll back the protections has no scientific basis and has been carefully removed from the public eye. There has been no input from stakeholders such as the fishing and tourism industries. Only two public hearings have been noticed, neither of which is scheduled for Washington, Oregon or California where many Bristol Bay fishermen and sports fishermen reside.
In their letter, the members of Congress also called for public hearings, a 90-day extension of the public comment period, and other transparency measures to ensure the public is allowed to make their voices heard. Restrictions on mining have the support of 90% of local Bristol Bay residents.
Senator Cantwell successfully led the fight to save Bristol Bay when Pebble Mine was first proposed. In 2011, she urged the EPA to use authority under the Clean Water Act to block large scale development in Bristol Bay. She continued the drumbeat through 2014, when she rallied supporters at Fisherman’s Terminal in Seattle to urge President Obama and the EPA to continue to prevent mining in the area.

Cantwell, Murray 25 Colleagues Urge National Institutes of Health to Renew Funding for Firearm Violence Research
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 11/ 17 (link source) 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) joined 25 of their Senate colleagues in urging the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to renew a recently-lapsed funding opportunity for firearm violence research.

Following the tragic mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012, President Obama directed the Department of Health and Human Services to research the causes of gun violence and how it can be prevented, resulting in the creation of a new funding opportunity to support research at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the National Institute of Mental Health, among other parts of NIH. From 2014 to 2017, NIH provided $18 million to 22 projects to study violence prevention, including gun violence, which the American Medical Association has described as a "‘public health crisis' requiring a comprehensive public health response and solution."
In a letter to NIH Director Dr. Francis Collins, the senators cited NIH leadership and researchers who noted the importance of this funding in furthering the agency's mission to promote and improve health outcomes, and in understanding "how science can save lives."  Despite calls from numerous public health experts to renew the program, the funding opportunity closed on January 8, 2017, and NIH has yet to release a timeline for its decision on renewal of the funding.
"With 93 Americans dying per day from gun-related fatalities, it is critical that NIH dedicate a portion of its resources to the public health consequences of gun violence," wrote the senators. "We strongly urge you to renew the gun violence research program as soon as possible."
Gun violence, a leading cause of death in the United States, has historically been underfunded and understudied, due in part to the Dickey Amendment, which has effectively banned federal funding for research on the issue at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other agencies under the Department of Health and Human Services. In their letter, the senators noted that while the amendment does bar research promoting gun control, it does not prohibit objective, scientific inquiries into prevention.

NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT REPORT

WH: Remarks by President Trump in Meeting with Dr. Henry Kissinger
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 10/ 17 (link source)
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Henry Kissinger has been a friend of mine. I've liked him, I've respected him. But we've been friends for a long time, long before my emergence in the world of politics, which has not been too long.
But we have been really in, I guess you'd say, the New York scene a little bit -- but we got to know each other very well. He's a man I have great, great respect for. He's also somebody -- usually I say, "Have you ever been in the Oval Office?" And with Henry Kissinger, I didn't bother asking that question because he has been in this office many, many times.
But it's an honor to have Dr. Kissinger with us, a man of immense talent, and experience, and knowledge. And I'm going to talk to him for a while, and we're going to learn a lot. But I can say from a world standpoint and with many of the countries that Henry and I would talk about before the election -- because I would talk with Henry before the election -- we've made a lot of progress with many of them. We have some outstanding, and we'll handle that as we have to handle it.
But we've made a lot of progress in the Middle East with ISIS and so many other things. It's a much calmer place. But, Henry, I say often, I inherited a mess, but we're fixing it.
So you may want to say something. And thank you for being here, Henry. Thank you very much.
DR. KISSINGER: Mr. President, I didn't expect this opportunity. It's always a great honor to be in this office, and I'm here at a moment when the opportunity to build a constructive, peaceful world order is very great.
And the President is leaving on a trip to Asia, which I think will make a big contribution to progress and peace and prosperity.

Justice Department Settles with Montgomery County, Maryland, After School Program to Ensure Compliance with the ADA
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 10/ 17 (link source)
The Justice Department announced today that it reached an agreement with Bar-T Year Round Programs for Kids (Bar-T), located in Montgomery County, Maryland, to remedy alleged violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  Title III of the ADA prohibits public accommodations, including child care centers, from discriminating against individuals with disabilities and those associated with them.  Bar-T is the largest provider of before and after school programs in Montgomery County, operating at approximately 30 Montgomery County public school locations.  

The department investigated whether Bar-T discriminated against a student with a disability, specifically Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and her parents when it expelled the student on the basis of behaviors associated with ASD, without properly considering whether Bar-T staff could implement reasonable modifications to permit the student to remain enrolled.  The settlement agreement requires Bar-T to adopt a nondiscrimination policy; designate staff at each operating location to address ADA issues; implement a process for parents or guardians of children with disabilities to request reasonable modifications and for Bar-T to conduct an individualized assessment of each request; provide ADA training to staff; and report on compliance with the agreement.  Bar-T will also pay $13,500 in compensatory damages to the student and her parents.

 “Through this agreement, Bar-T is taking important steps to make sure that all children in its programs, including children with disabilities, will be given the opportunity to have a positive and successful experience in a supportive after school environment,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Civil Rights Division.

 “Children with disabilities deserve equal opportunities to attend after school programs.  The policies Bar-T has agreed to implement will ensure that its programs provide an inclusive environment for all students,” said Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Stephen M. Schenning.
 To read the settlement agreement or for more information on the ADA, visit www.ada.gov.  For more information about the ADA, including how to file a complaint, call the Department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or access the ADA website at www.ada.gov.

FBI TEN MOST WANTED: MURDER VICTIMS D’Iberville, Harrison County, Mississippi October of 2011
Law enforcement authorities are seeking information in connection with a triple murder in Mississippi. On October 5, 2011, the victims were found stabbed to death in their home in D'Iberville, Mississippi. The victims were Rong Chen, a 40-year-old Asian male; Mei Rong Li, a 40-year-old Asian female (Rong Chen's wife); and Mei Jin Li, a 53-year-old Asian female (Mei Rong Li's sister).
https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/seeking-info/murder-victims-1

FEMA Approves More Than $140 Million in Assistance to Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 11/ 17 (link source)

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved more than $44 million for assistance to individuals and more than $96 million for emergency work in response to hurricanes Irma and Maria.

FEMA continues to take registrations from residents of Puerto Rico who incurred damages to their homes and personal property as a result of hurricanes Irma and Maria.

Individuals and households in Puerto Rico can register online at www.disasterassistance.gov, or by calling 1-800-621-3362 or TTY 1-800-462-7585.  FEMA teams are also on the ground meeting face-to-face with disaster survivors and helping with registrations.

FEMA awarded the Puerto Rico Electric and Power Authority (PREPA) $54.6 million for emergency work.

PREPA is an autonomous agency of the Government of Puerto Rico that produces and distributes electricity to more than 1.5 million customers and is a not-for-profit public corporation. During the incident period that began on September 17, strong winds, storms, floods, debris and fallen trees associated with Hurricane Maria caused severe damages and the collapse of the electrical power system throughout Puerto Rico.

 Hurricane Relief Update–Secretary DeVos Visits Impacted Florida Schools, Department Maintains Close Contact with Affected Area Officials
US DEPT. of Education press release issued 10/ 11/ 17
Washington — As states and territories recover and rebuild from Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria and Nate, the U.S. Department of Education continues to provide assistance to the impacted students, schools and institutions. On Friday Oct. 6, U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos visited two impacted schools in southern Florida—Everglades City School in Everglades City and Pinecrest Elementary in Immokalee—to speak with students and hear directly from teachers and administrators about their communities' recovery efforts and needs.

"Witnessing the destruction brought by these hurricanes is heart-breaking, but it is even more heartening to see the resilience shown by those seeking to rebuild," said Secretary DeVos. "As these communities continue to return to normality, I am committed to reducing bureaucratic red-tape so that those affected can get the relief they need expeditiously."

On Sept. 22, the Department of Education released new non-regulatory guidance to help Department grantees and program participants remove barriers to restoring teaching and learning environments and to expediting the recovery process for all those impacted by the recent hurricanes.

The following are further updates on the Department's relief actions:

The Department has provided all guidance and relief information in Spanish online.
The Department continues to maintain active and ongoing communications with state and local elementary and secondary school system officials, charter school associations and private schools in the impacted states and territories.
The office of Federal Student Aid has established and maintains communication with all 965 affected institutions of higher education.
https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/hurricane-relief-update-secretary-devos-visits-impacted-florida-schools-department-maintains-close-contact-affected-area-officials

WORLD AND NATIONAL HEADLINES FROM REUTERS

How a homemade tool helped North Korea's missile program
SEOUL, (Reuters) - In 2009, a pop video from North Korea celebrated a new national hero - one that outside experts would later realize was at the heart of the secretive state’s banned nuclear and missile programs.

Erdogan says U.S. sacrificing strategic ally Turkey
ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan accused the United States on Thursday of mistreating a strategic ally, in a blistering speech which appeared to rule out swift resolution to a dispute between two NATO members jointly fighting Islamic State.

Trump signs order to weaken Obamacare, boost bare-bones insurance
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday to weaken the Obamacare law and make it easier for Americans to buy bare-bones health insurance plans, but the action faces possible legal challenges.

Democrats rising? Early statehouse wins test new faces
(Reuters) - Democrats desperate to rebuild after losing the White House last year have scored a string of election victories for statehouse seats, testing a new generation of candidates and activists eager to resist President Donald Trump’s conservative agenda.

Daily Bible Verse: [ Shun Evil Counsel ] My son, hear the instruction of your father, And do not forsake the law of your mother; For they will be a graceful ornament on your head, And chains about your neck.

Proverbs 1:8-9 NKJV

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WORLD NEWS SPOTLIGHT REPORT

UN PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 9/ 17
We Have Tools, Commitment to End Global Hunger, Secretary-General Tells Food Security Committee
Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the Committee on World Food Security, in Rome today:
I send warm greetings to everyone at the forty-fourth session of the Committee on World Food Security.  Food security, and this Committee, have a key role to play in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and especially Sustainable Development Goal 2, Zero Hunger.
Despite steady progress in recent years, hunger is on the rise.  The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that there are some 815 million chronically undernourished people in the world.
Protracted crises, conflict, and extreme weather events linked to climate change are taking an appalling toll on the poorest people in the world.  Many have no choice but to abandon their homes and their land.
The theme of World Food Day 2017 is “Change the future of migration.  Invest in food security and rural development”.  Such investments create stronger and more resilient communities so that people can prosper and thrive without having to move.  We face a great challenge.  But, we have the tools and the commitment to end global hunger.
I thank you for your commitment and wish you all the best for your meeting.
https://www.un.org/press/en/2017/sgsm18738.doc.htm

Targeted Poverty Strategies Only Way to Reach Those Farthest Behind, Secretary-General Tells Development Forum
UN PRESS RELEASE DATED 10/ 9/ 17
Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for the Global Poverty Reduction and Development Forum, in Beijing today:
I am pleased to send greetings to participants in the 2017 Global Poverty Reduction and Development Forum.
This year marks the twenty-fifth International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.  During this quarter-century, the number of people living in extreme poverty has halved and living conditions have improved all over the world.  But, the fight against poverty is not over.  Globalization and technological progress have increased inequalities and left millions of people behind.  Reducing and eradicating poverty is the key to improving lives and realizing the potential of hundreds of millions of people.
The theme of this year’s Forum, “Targeted Poverty Alleviation and the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda”, is timely.  Targeted poverty reduction strategies are the only way to reach those farthest behind and achieve the ambitious targets set out in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.  China has lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty, and its experiences can provide valuable lessons to other developing countries.  I am confident that China’s continued efforts to address its remaining challenges, and its model of inclusive development, will continue to reduce the numbers of those living in poverty and help address the serious disparities between rich and poor, rural and urban, the coast and the interior.
We are at a critical juncture for implementation of the 2030 Agenda.  With the right tools and partnerships, we can make sure that no child is born into poverty, and that everyone has a chance to thrive in a more equitable, prosperous and sustainable world.  I urge China’s continued leadership in this effort.
I thank you for coming together for this important meeting and look forward to our continued collaboration.
https://www.un.org/press/en/2017/sgsm18736.doc.htm


FROM THE UN NEWS CENTER:
UN agencies launch cholera immunization campaign for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh
10 October 2017 – In a race to prevent a cholera outbreak among the more than half a million Rohingya refugee arrivals over the past six weeks in Cox’s Bazaar, Bangladesh, United Nations agencies launched on Tuesday a massive immunization campaign.

Disaster risk outpaces resilience in Asia-Pacific, warns UN regional commission
10 October 2017 – Disaster risk is outpacing resilience in Asia-Pacific and putting people in this most disaster-prone region at risk of being pushed back into poverty, the latest report from a United Nations regional commission has revealed.

Rural areas have potential to feed and employ 'younger, more crowded planet' – UN report
9 October 2017 – Long seen as poverty traps, rural areas are in fact key to economic growth in developing countries when pegged to food production, according to a new United Nations agriculture agency report released Monday.

Global unemployment passes 200 million in 2017, UN labour agency reports
9 October 2017 – More than 200 million people are out of work around the world – an increase of 3.4 million since last year, the United Nations labour agency said Monday, calling for policies that can recharge “sluggish” growth of small and medium-sized businesses.

US MISSION TO THE UN: Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on UN Peacekeeping Operations: Strategic Force Generation
PRESS RELEASE DATED 10/ 5/ 17
The United States is pleased to have played a central role in refocusing the UN and Member States on the importance of force generation at the leaders’ summit in 2015. In recognition of the critical importance of multinational peace operations and the challenges they face, the international community has rallied behind the series of ministerial conferences to raise awareness about capacity shortfalls in peacekeeping and expand the pool of available resources to address these shortfalls.
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8005

Explanation of Vote Following the Adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2382 on Colombia (press release issued 10/ 5/ 17)
" After 52 years of armed struggle, the United States welcomes the historic ceasefire between the Colombian government and the National Liberation Army. We congratulate the parties on their commitment to pursuing the sustained and lasting peace that the people of Colombia deserve. We want to recognize the role of the Catholic Church and Ecuador in particular for the special role it has played and continues to play in brokering a longer-term peace.

Through this resolution, we join other members of the Council in supporting the work of the UN Verification Mission in monitoring this ceasefire, which will help build confidence between the parties and prevent a return to armed conflict. We commend the Mission for drawing on its existing staff, logistics, and resources to take on this temporary, additional task while carrying out its mandate to verify the political, economic, and social reintegration of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia FARC."
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8004


US STATE DEPT. BLOG Post: The Foreign Policy Advisor Program: Leveraging Diplomacy to Provide for a Smarter Defense (posted 10/ 10/ 17)
"In a world with increasingly complex political and security challenges, bridging the gap between diplomacy and defense is of vital importance to U.S. foreign policy. Global issues are increasingly interconnected and cross-cutting, with both political and military aspects, making it more important than ever to have an agile, adaptable approach to foreign policy that can quickly adjust to changing circumstances."
https://blogs.state.gov/stories/2017/10/10/en/foreign-policy-advisor-program-leveraging-diplomacy-provide-smarter-defense

US DEFENSE DEPT: U.S. Military Adapting in Complex Environment, Mattis Says
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9, 2017 — The U.S. military is adapting to remain the most lethal joint force on the planet and to respond to evolving global security challenges, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said here today.
https://www.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1337625/us-military-adapting-in-complex-environment-mattis-says/


WORLD AND NATIONAL HEADLINES FROM REUTERS

U.S. flies bombers over Korea as Trump discusses options
SEOUL/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. military flew two strategic bombers over the Korean peninsula in a show of force late on Tuesday, as President Donald Trump met top defense officials to discuss how to respond to any threat from North Korea.

U.S. warship sails near islands Beijing claims in South China Sea - U.S. officials
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A U.S. Navy destroyer sailed near islands claimed by China in the South China Sea on Tuesday, three U.S. officials told Reuters, prompting anger in Beijing, even as President Donald Trump’s administration seeks Chinese cooperation in reining in North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs.

Trump sought dramatic increase in U.S. nuclear arsenal: NBC
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump wanted to dramatically increase the country’s nuclear arsenal, he said in a meeting with his national security advisers in July, NBC News reported on Wednesday, citing three officials who were present in the room.

Key U.S. lawmakers back enforcing, not ditching, Iran pact
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Republican chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Foreign Affairs committee said on Wednesday the international nuclear deal with Iran should be strictly enforced, but did not call for an end to the agreement, saying Washington should work with allies.


Daily Bible Verse: [ A Calm Resolve to Wait for the Salvation of God ] [ To the Chief Musician. To Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. ] Truly my soul silently waits for God; From Him comes my salvation.
Psalm 62:1 NKJV

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AG FERGUSON SUES TO BLOCK TRUMP RULES ERODING CONTRACEPTION ACCESS

PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 9/ 17 (link source)

SEATTLE — Attorney General Bob Ferguson today filed a lawsuit in federal court to block the Trump Administration’s new rules undermining women’s access to contraception.

The new rules would allow any company to deny coverage for contraceptive services to its female employees based on religious grounds. Additionally, certain types of organizations would also be able to deny this coverage on moral grounds.

If allowed to go forward, President Trump’s rules could have a significant impact on the more than 1.5 million Washington workers and their dependents who receive insurance through their employer’s self-funded plan. One study by the Center for American Progress found that contraception costs can generally exceed $1,000 a year without insurance coverage.

Some Washington women who currently use contraception may be denied no-cost coverage and be forced to turn to state-funded programs to receive the care they need. State-funded reproductive health services helped more than 90,000 patients in 2016 alone. More than three-quarters of those patients were women who used contraception, saving the state an estimated $160 million in maternal and birth-related costs, according to a report from the Washington State Department of Health.

“President Trump’s contraception rules are unfair, unlawful, and unconstitutional,” said Ferguson. “I refuse to let President Trump disregard our laws and our constitution in an effort to deny women access to contraception.”

The lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington, alleges that the new rules violate the U.S. Constitution, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the Civil Rights Act and the Administrative Procedure Act.

BACK TO SCHOOL 2017

2018-19 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) Opened Oct. 1
US EDUCATION DEPT. PRESS RELEASE dated 10/ 3/ 17
The financial aid filing season officially began at 1 a.m. ET on Sunday, Oct. 1 with the launch of the 2018‒19 FAFSA® at fafsa.gov. Nearly 238,000 online applications were submitted the first day, representing an eight percent increase compared to one year ago.

Most students and parents are eligible to use the IRS DRT to electronically transfer their 2016 tax return information. The tool returned Oct. 1 for the 2018‒19 FAFSA with extra security and privacy protections to safeguard sensitive taxpayer data.

Each year, more than 20 million FAFSAs are submitted, resulting in more than $120 billion in federal grants, loans and work-study funds to help pay for college or career school.

“Our vision at the U.S. Department of Education (ED) is that every eligible student in the nation completes the FAFSA,” said Dr. A. Wayne Johnson, chief operating officer of ED’s office of Federal Student Aid. “Filling out the FAFSA is free, and Federal Student Aid provides a wealth of resources to assist students and parents every step of the way.”

Students who plan to submit the FAFSA online should create an FSA ID as soon as possible at StudentAid.gov/fsaid. If a student is considered dependent for FAFSA purposes, one of the student’s parents also needs to create an FSA ID in order to sign the FAFSA online. Each person must create his or her own FSA ID to avoid issues and delays with the financial aid process.

Once the FAFSA is processed, the school will use the FAFSA information to calculate the amounts and types of financial aid the student may qualify for, and the school will send the student a financial aid offer. Financial aid offers come from schools, not the U.S. Department of Education, and each school has its own schedule for awarding financial aid. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA as soon as possible to take advantage of any early state and school financial aid deadlines.
https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/2018-19-free-application-federal-student-aid-fafsa%C2%AE-opened-oct-1

Student Artists and Writers Spark a Celebration of Creativity; 2017 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Winners Exhibits Open at ED
On Sept. 15, 2017, for the 14th year, the U.S. Department of Education opened the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards exhibit of works by students from across the country, with a special exhibit this year of winners from Harris County (Houston), Texas. Presented by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers and founded in 1923, the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards is the longest-running and most prestigious award program for teenagers in the U.S. This year, 330,000 pieces of art and writing were submitted, and only 2,700 students were selected as national winners. Of those national winners, the Department has the honor of exhibiting 66 for the entire year, along with an additional 30 artists from Harris County, Texas, through Oct. 31, 2017.
https://blog.ed.gov/2017/10/student-artists-writers-spark-celebration-creativity-2017-scholastic-art-writing-awards-winners-exhibits-open-ed/

Understanding Teachers Make “All the Difference” for a High School Student with Dyslexia
A teacher can make the difference between a good day and a bad one.
Actually, they can make or break a child’s entire school year by understanding what accommodations in a 504 Plan or an individualized education program (IEP) can do to help a person like me who works every day to overcome the impact of dyslexia, dysgraphia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
https://blog.ed.gov/2017/10/understanding-teachers-make-difference-high-school-student-dyslexia/

Michigan Students to Speak with NASA Astronauts on Space Station
Students at St. Mary Cathedral School in Gaylord, Michigan, will speak with NASA astronauts living, working and doing research aboard the International Space Station at 11 a.m. EDT Friday, Oct. 6. The 20-minute, Earth-to-space call will air live on NASA Television and the agency’s website.
https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/michigan-students-to-speak-with-nasa-astronauts-on-space-station

WORLD AND NATIONAL HEADLINES FROM REUTERS

Iran hardliners, pragmatists show unity in response to Trump
LONDON (Reuters) - A tough line from President Donald Trump has been met by a show of unity from both sides of Iran’s political divide, uniting hardliners who cast the United States as an implacable enemy with pragmatists who seek rapprochement with the West.

North Korean missiles will be able to reach U.S. after modernization: Ifax cites Russian lawmaker
MOSCOW (Reuters) - North Korea’s leadership has told Russian lawmakers that it possesses a ballistic missile with a range of 3,000 kilometers (1864.11 miles) that will be able to reach U.S. territory after modernization, the Interfax news agency reported on Tuesday.

Trump says dispute with Corker will not affect tax reform
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he did not think his Twitter dispute with Republican Senator Bob Corker would affect his administration’s effort to pass tax reform.

Trump plays tax card in fight over NFL anthem protests
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday the National Football League should not be given tax breaks, stepping up his criticism of the world’s top-grossing sports league over silent player protests at games against racial injustice.

Daily Bible Verse: Listen to counsel and receive instruction, That you may be wise in your latter days. There are many plans in a man’s heart, Nevertheless the Lord’s counsel—that will stand.

Proverbs 19:20-21 NKJV

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WA COMMERCE DEPT: State Startup Center for Entrepreneurial Success ramps up under Inland Northwest Partners leadership

PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 3/ 17

Washington state’s small business assistance programs in Asotin and Whitman counties help rural entrepreneurs realize startup dreams, attract $20K contribution from Avista
OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington State Department of Commerce’s Startup Washington 365 program is increasing efforts to support entrepreneurs in Asotin and Whitman counties through a new relationship with Inland Northwest Partners (INP). The non-profit based in Liberty Lake, WA is currently recruiting a full-time program manager to lead and build services offered through the Startup Washington Center for Entrepreneurial Success to new businesses in these rural communities.
Education, access to experts in fields such as law and accounting, and a host of mentorship and networking opportunities are available through www.startupasotin.com and www.startupwhitman.com.
 “We are excited to build out services that focus on connecting entrepreneurs with resources to further their development, champion entrepreneurship and promote the Startup Washington 365 program throughout the region,” said Sharon Williams, executive director, Inland Northwest Partners/Inland Northwest Economic Alliance.

The Washington state legislature approved $250,000 to fund Commerce’s Startup Washington 365 rural economic development programs through the 2017-19 biennium. Spokane-based investor-owned utility Avista contributed an additional $20,000 to support the new work led by Inland Northwest Partners.

“The contract with Inland Northwest Partners enables us to enhance the Startup Washington 365 program in Southeastern Washington, continuing our focus on helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses,” said Steve Trabun, regional business development manager with Avista. The company was instrumental in establishing and growing Greater Spokane Incorporated’s Startup Spokane program and remains one of its central investors.
“This strategic economic development initiative contributes to Avista’s commitment to create economically healthy and vibrant rural communities,” Trabun said.
“Public-private collaboration is core to the goals and success of Startup Washington 365,” said Commerce Director Brian Bonlender. “Nurturing the talent, innovation and drive of home-grown entrepreneurs by connecting them with mentors and professional services spurs economic growth and jobs, strengthening rural communities throughout Washington state.”
Since inception in 2015, Startup Washington 365 has helped nearly 200 entrepreneurs who have succeeded in establishing 51 new ventures.
5-0 Guide Services is one of those early success stories in Asotin County. Owner Greg Egbert established a fishing guide service in Scenic Hells Canyon, offering salmon, steelhead, sturgeon and bass expeditions year-round in North America’s deepest river gorge.

MONDAY'S BUSINESS AND FINANCE REPORT

US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Delivery in Progress: Pro-Growth Tax Reform
The American people are patiently waiting. Waiting for Congress to deliver on pro-growth tax reform.

Slow Confirmations Are Thwarting Progress
Nine months into the Trump administration, an unusually high number of senior positions remain vacant. As of September 28, only 170 of President Trump’s nominees for key federal appointments had been approved, compared with 342 at this point in the Obama administration and 370 in the George W. Bush administration. This is leaving holes in our nation’s leadership that hamper operations and, in some cases, could stall economic growth.

Why is this happening? It’s true that the Trump administration has had a slow start to the nomination process, but this isn’t the full story. In fact, the president has already nominated approximately 280 individuals who are languishing in procedural limbo. Some in the Senate are forcing nominees to go through a time-consuming process designed to slow down confirmations. Rather than confirming noncontroversial nominees by voice vote—as the Senate has done in prior administrations—the Senate minority is forcing some confirmations to go through what is called the cloture process, which takes longer to complete. By one estimate, at the current pace it will take 11 years to confirm all the president’s nominees.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/slow-confirmations-are-thwarting-progress

US DEPT. OF LABOR: STATEMENT BY U.S. SECRETARY OF LABOR ACOSTA ON THE SEPTEMBER JOBS REPORT
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta issued the following statement on the September 2017 Employment Situation report:

“Even as parts of our nation recover from multiple devastating hurricanes, September’s jobs report reflects the resilience of the American economy.

“The bottom line is this: 154.35 million Americans are employed compared to 153.44 million the previous month, an increase of 906,000.  The number of paychecks earned for the week of September 10th through 16th declined by 33,000, largely reflecting Irma’s devastating landfall on September 10th.  The difference in these two numbers is that more Americans are employed, yet many missed a paycheck in September.  These Americans are counted as employed for purposes of the employment survey but not for purposes of the jobs (payroll) survey.  Thus, while more individuals are employed—which is why the unemployment rate decreased—33,000 fewer individuals received a paycheck for the survey period.
“The unemployment rate declined to 4.2 percent, the lowest since February 2001.  This is the first month that the unemployment rate for women, presently at 3.9 percent, has been below 4 percent since June 2007.  The labor force participation rate increased 0.2 percentage point to 63.1 percent.  In short, more Americans are working both as a percent of our population and as an overall number.
“As parts of our nation recover from the recent hurricanes, the Department of Labor is working closely with states and territories to help them assess workforce needs so that Americans can return to work or find a new job.  Getting dislocated workers back on their feet is a top priority.
“I would like to thank the men and women of the Bureau of Labor Statistics for their outstanding work conducting these surveys under difficult circumstances.”
https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/opa/opa20171006

IRS: Tax Filing Extension Expires Oct. 16 for Millions of Taxpayers; Check Eligibility for Overlooked Tax Benefits
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today urged taxpayers who have a filing extension through Oct. 16 to check their returns for often-overlooked tax benefits. When they are ready to file, the IRS recommends they file their return electronically using IRS e-file or the Free File system. Both are still available for taxpayers who still need to file their return.
Although Oct. 16 is the last day for most people to file, some individuals -- such as members of the military serving in a combat zone -- are allowed more time to file. Typically, they have until 180 days after they leave the combat zone to both file their return and pay any taxes due.
In addition, taxpayers who have a valid extension and are in or affected by a federally declared disaster area may be allowed more time to file. Currently, taxpayers in parts of Michigan, West Virginia and those impacted by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria qualify for this relief. See the disaster relief page on IRS.gov for details.
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-filing-extension-expires-oct-16-for-millions-of-taxpayers-check-eligibility-for-overlooked-tax-benefits

Federal Reserve Board announces public comment period has been extended through November 30, 2017, on two related proposals; enhance effectiveness of boards of directors at banks and new rating system for large firms.
https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/orders20171005a.htm

Federal Reserve Board announces approval of application by Columbia Banking System, Inc.
The Federal Reserve Board on Friday announced its approval of the application under section 3 of the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 by Columbia Banking System, Inc., Tacoma, Washington, to acquire Pacific Continental Corporation ("Pacific") and thereby indirectly acquire Pacific's subsidiary bank, Pacific Continental Bank, both of Eugene, Oregon.
https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/orders20171006a.htm

Statement From U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross on the Release of President Trump’s Immigration Priorities
President Trump's tighter border controls have already reduced greatly the influx of illegal aliens, but he needs legislation to finish the task. I support his request to secure our borders, swiftly return illegal entrants, stop visa fraud and overstays, sanctuary cities, asylum abuse and chain immigration, as well as exploitative employment of illegal aliens. This will take money for more ICE officers, more federal prosecutors and more physical barriers. That will be money well spent!
https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2017/10/statement-us-secretary-commerce-wilbur-ross-release-president-trumps

Treasury Releases Second Report On The Administration’s Core Principles Of Financial Regulation
WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. Department of the Treasury released a report detailing how to streamline and reform the U.S. regulatory system for the capital markets. Treasury’s evaluation of current capital market regulations found that there are significant reforms that can be undertaken to promote growth and vibrant financial markets while maintaining strong investor protections. The report issued today was in response to Executive Order 13772 issued by President Trump on February 3rd, which  calls on Treasury to identify laws and regulations that are inconsistent with a set of Core Principles of financial regulation.
https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/sm0173.aspx

WORLD AND NATIONAL HEADLINES FROM REUTERS

Turkey urges U.S. to review visa suspension as lira, stocks tumble
ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkey urged the United States on Monday to review its suspension of visa services after the arrest of a U.S. consulate employee sharply escalated tensions between the two NATO allies and drove Turkey’s currency and stocks lower.

Merkel deems migrant deal good for coalition talks but Greens skeptical
BERLIN (Reuters) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Monday an agreement within her conservative bloc on limiting migrants would help forge a new government coalition, but one of the key partners, the Greens, said it would not become policy.

Trump's popularity is slipping in rural America: poll
(Reuters) - Outside the Morgan County fair in McConnelsville, in a rural swath of Ohio that fervently backed U.S. President Donald Trump in last year’s election, ticket seller John Wilson quietly counts off a handful of disappointments with the man he helped elect.

EPA chief to sign rule on Clean Power Plan exit on Tuesday
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The head of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said on Monday he would sign a proposed rule on Tuesday to begin withdrawing from the Clean Power Plan, former President Barack Obama’s centerpiece regulation to fight climate change.

Daily Bible Verse: You shall walk after the Lord your God and fear Him, and keep His commandments and obey His voice; you shall serve Him and hold fast to Him.

Deuteronomy 13:4 NKJV

 Free bible studies (WBS)

https://www.worldbibleschool.org/

Learn english using the bible as text (WEI)

http://www.worldenglishinstitute.org/

SUNDAY EDITION

President Donald J. Trump's Weekly Address
POSTED ON THE WHITE HOUSE PAGE 9/ 6/ 17 (link source)

Transcript:

My fellow Americans,
On Wednesday, I traveled to Las Vegas to visit with the victims of the horrific shooting, speak with their families, and thank the brave citizens, first responders and medical personnel who saved so many lives.
We struggle to grasp the evil that occurred on Sunday evening when a murderer shot into a crowd of more than 20,000 people. Men, women, and children were gathered to enjoy a concert. They never imagined it would become the worst day of their lives.
But in the wake of such shock and horror, it was a matter of seconds before the goodness of the human spirit broke through. When the shooting began, a mother laid on top of her daughter to shield her from gunfire. A husband died to protect his beloved wife. Strangers rescued strangers, police officers and first responders rushed into danger.

When the worst of humanity strikes, the best of humanity responds.
The men and women who risked their lives to save their fellow citizens give proof to the words of this Scripture: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." Americans defied death and hatred with love and courage.
This week our nation remembers all the wonderful people we have lost and all of the grace they brought into our lives and our communities. Among the fallen were young students full of limitless potential, law enforcement personnel, a nurse, teachers dedicated to our children’s future, and many others. They were mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers. They were husbands and wives, and sons and daughters. They will be dearly missed, and they will never be forgotten.
To all those who lost a loved one, we cannot imagine your pain, or erase your sorrow. Our hearts grieve for you. We stand with you now, and every day after. And we pray that God may carry you through the anguish and sorrow.
We can never fill the void of those who perished, but we pledge to honor them by living as they would have wished – with lives full of purpose, with hearts full of love, and with hope for a better tomorrow.
God comfort the broken-hearted. And may God bless the United States of America. Thank you.







FROM THE GOVERNOR'S OFFICE, JAY INSLEE
Gov. Inslee and Commissioner Franz statements regarding Cooke Aquaculture plans to transfer additional Atlantic salmon smolts
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 3/ 17 (link source)

Gov. Jay Inslee and Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz today responded to Cooke Aquaculture’s plan to transfer 1 million Atlantic salmon smolts from Rochester to an existing net pen in the Puget Sound.

“We are very concerned about Cooke Aquaculture’s plan to transfer up to 1 million Atlantic salmon smolts to a net pen in Clam Bay across from Bainbridge Island. This is disappointing and frustrating, coming on the heels of the August collapse of Cooke’s net pen near Cypress Island that held 305,000 fish," Inslee said.

“While both Commissioner Franz and I have directed our respective state agencies not to issue permits or leases for any new net pens until we can review the results of the Cypress Island investigation, the Department of Fish and Wildlife does not have the means, based on current state law and regulatory rules, to prohibit the transfer into an existing pen. My office has asked Cooke to do the right thing – for our tribes, for our citizens, for our environment and for the industry’s long-term prospects – and withdraw their request."

"Though we cannot stop the transfer of these fish, the three agencies had the pens inspected by a licensed structural engineer to identify any deficiencies in the net pen structures at the Rich Passage facility. The Department of Ecology inspected the Clam Bay facility and did not find violations of the current water quality permit, but Ecology also requested that Cooke not move forward with its plans. We've had DNR staff on hand for that inspection, and we will continue to maintain a presence at the facilities," said Commissioner Franz.

”DNR will also be conducting inspections by a licensed structural engineer at all of Cooke's operations in Washington while the investigation into the Cypress Island incident is ongoing. The broad public outcry surrounding this net pen failure is understandable. So is the lack of confidence in how Cooke responded to the emergency, the recovery of fish and the management of future operations the company may pursue here in our waters.”



From our congressional delegation to DC
Sen. Murray Statement on President Trump’s Tax on Women’s Health Care: “Wrong and Outrageous”
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 6/ 17 (link source)

(Washington, D.C.) –  Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, today released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s interim final rules that will make it much easier for companies to interfere in their employees’ health care choices and force women to pay more for an essential part of their health care.

“President Trump wants to make birth control about ideology, but let’s be clear: for women and their families in the 21st century, birth control is about being healthy and financially secure—and allowing a woman’s employer to decide whether or not it’s part of her coverage not only takes women backward, but takes hundreds of dollars out of their bank accounts.

“Today, nine months after women across the country marched together to reject President Trump’s anti-woman agenda, he has rolled out a tax on their health care. This is wrong, it’s outrageous, and I will be pushing every Republican who claims to care about women’s health and economic security to join me in fighting back against it.”

The interim final rules issued by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) follow President Trump’s Executive Order issued in May directing the Departments of Treasury, Labor, and Health and Human Services to “consider amending regulations” that, under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), require insurance plans to provide no-cost coverage of critical preventive services, including birth control.

Earlier this year, Sen. Murray introduced the Save Women’s Preventive Services Act with strong support from Senate Democrats to protect women’s preventive health care from further attacks by the Trump Administration.

FROM THE GOVERNOR'S OFFICE, Jay Inslee
Inslee statement on federal efforts to restrict women’s access to birth control
Press release issued 10/ 6/ 17 (link source)
Gov. Jay Inslee today made a statement regarding the Trump Administration’s move to eliminate the Affordable Care Act’s requirement for health insurers to provide free birth control to women. Access to birth control has reduced unintended pregnancy rates overall and among teens to the lowest they have been in decades and saved women $1.4 billion in 2013 alone. Nearly nine in 10 women use birth control in her lifetime.
"Access to affordable birth control is among the most essential and basic health benefits women rely on. Today the Trump administration took aim at birth control coverage for 62.4 million women nationwide. The president has turned a crucial health care tool for women into a senseless and reckless political ploy.
"There is no legitimate rationale for taking away women’s access to birth control, and there is no way we will allow this rollback of women’s health care to happen without a fight."

OUR HEALTH REPORT

FDA approves implantable device to treat moderate to severe central sleep apnea
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved a new treatment option for patients who have been diagnosed with moderate to severe central sleep apnea. The Remedē System is an implantable device that stimulates a nerve located in the chest that is responsible for sending signals to the diaphragm to stimulate breathing.
https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm579506.htm

Statement from FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D. on FDA’s continued assistance following the natural disaster in Puerto Rico
FDA continues extensive efforts to provide direct assistance to the residents of Puerto Rico following Hurricanes Irma and Maria, and is taking new steps to mitigate the impact of these twin disasters on the island’s vibrant medical product manufacturing sector. Our top priority is the people of Puerto Rico.
https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm579493.htm

FDA awards six grants for natural history studies in rare diseases
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced it has awarded six new research grants for natural history studies in rare diseases. The aim of the research is to inform medical product development by better understanding how specific rare diseases progress over time. One potential application of these studies is the opportunity to eventually use natural history models to augment the need for placebo arms in studies of drugs that target very rare disease, where trial recruitment can be challenging.
https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm579375.htm

CDC: Americans in rural areas more likely to die by suicide
Rural counties consistently had higher suicide rates than metropolitan counties from 2001-2015, according to data released today in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2017/p1005-rural-suicide-rates.html

HHS: Assistant Secretary McCance-Katz Meets with Innovators to Discuss Solutions to Opioid Crisis
On Thursday, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use Dr. Elinore McCance-Katz on behalf of Acting Secretary Don Wright, M.D., MPH, hosted a listening session at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) with innovators from the pain and addiction treatment space to discuss how the Trump Administration and HHS can better address America’s opioid crisis.
https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2017/10/06/assistant-secretary-mccance-katz-meets-innovators-discuss-solutions-opioid-crisis.html

WORLD AND NATIONAL NEWS BRIEFS FROM REUTERS...

Iran warns U.S. against imposing further sanctions
BEIRUT/DUBAI (Reuters) - Iran warned the United States against designating its Revolutionary Guards Corp as a terrorist group and said U.S. regional military bases would be at risk if further sanctions were passed.

Kim Jong Un praises nuclear program, promotes sister to center of power
SEOUL (Reuters) - North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un said his nuclear weapons were a “powerful deterrent” that guaranteed its sovereignty, state media reported on Sunday, hours after U.S. President Donald Trump said “only one thing will work” in dealing with the isolated country.

Trump says open to temporary healthcare reform deal with Democrats
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday he would be open to cutting a one-year or two-year deal with Democratic rivals as a way to kick-start reform of the nation’s healthcare system, a key campaign pledge made by Trump and the Republican Party.

Hurricane Nate weakens to tropical storm after hitting U.S. Gulf coast
NEW ORLEANS (Reuters) - Tropical Storm Nate swept ashore in Mississippi on Sunday with strong winds rattling the doors of Biloxi’s many casinos and lashing rain flooding the gambling floors and surrounding highways, although the fast-moving former hurricane was expected to rapidly weaken as it moved inland.


WEEKLY BIBLE LESSON
Gospel Way: Elders," "Bishops," and "Pastors"
Sometimes denominations distinguish the terms "Elder," "Bishop," and "Pastor,"  claiming that bishops are different from elders which, in turn, are different from pastors. But the Bible often uses different terms to refer to the same thing.
https://www.gospelway.com/topics/church/elder-bishop.php

UTC: King County excavator fined $20,000 for repeatedly violating dig law

PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 5/ 17 (link source)

OLYMPIA, Wash. – A King County excavator was issued a $20,000 penalty for repeated violations of the state’s “call before you dig” law.
The Utilities and Transportation Commission fined Enumclaw-based Watterson Excavation LLC $20,000 for four violations of the dig law that occurred in 2016 and 2017.
The violations include:
Two violations for failing to provide the required notice to a one-number locator service at least two business days before excavating;
One violation for starting excavation without a valid ticket date; and
One violation for failing to notify a utility operator of damage to an underground facility.
Puget Sound Energy initially filed four complaints against Watterson Excavation with the Washington State Dig Law Safety Committee. The committee reviewed the complaints in July and identified four violations. The committee recommended a $20,000 penalty: $5,000 for each of the four violations. The committee also recommended all of the company’s ownership, management, and employees be required to complete National Utility Contractor Association (NUCA) Dig Safe Training.
As required by law, the committee forwarded the recommendation to the UTC for consideration. The UTC review of the recommendation found support for the four violations.
Commission staff recommended the commission issue a $5,000 penalty for each violation and supported the NUCA training requirement.
Watterson Excavation had 15 days after receiving notice of its penalty to pay the $20,000 fine, request a hearing, or request a reduction to the penalty amount. The company was notified on August 29, 2017, but has not responded to the penalty or paid the fine. The UTC may refer the penalty to the Office of the Attorney General for collection.

Watterson Excavation LLC was fined $10,000 in 2016 and $4,000 in 2015 for similar violations.
State law requires excavators call 811 or submit a request online at callbeforeyoudig.org at least two business days prior to digging.
The call before you dig law (RCW 19.122 Underground Utilities) charges the UTC with enforcement of violations, which are first reviewed by the safety committee and sent to the UTC for a final decision.
All penalties collected are put into a damage prevention account and used for educational outreach designed to improve worker and public safety related to excavation and underground facilities.
The UTC regulates the rates and services of telecommunications companies, investor-owned electric utilities, natural gas and water companies, garbage-collection haulers, household-goods movers and charter-bus companies, commercial ferries, pipeline companies, and a low-level radioactive waste repository.

WEEKLY AGRICULTURAL REPORT

USDA: Secretary Perdue Statement on Ibach & Northey Senate Committee Hearing
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 5/ 17 (link source)

(Washington, D.C., October 5, 2017) - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today commended Greg Ibach and Bill Northey, two nominees for key posts at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), for their joint appearance before the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. President Donald J. Trump nominated Ibach to serve as Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP) and selected Northey for Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC). The two await committee action and approval of the entire U.S. Senate.
The Under Secretary for MRP oversees three critical USDA agencies: the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service; the Agricultural Marketing Service; and the Grain Inspection, Packers, and Stockyards Administration. The Under Secretary for FPAC oversees three critical USDA agencies: the Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the Risk Management Agency.
Perdue issued the following statement:
“These two nominees will bring experience and integrity to USDA the moment they walk in the door. Greg Ibach’s work as Nebraska’s Director of Agriculture has prepared him to address the needs of American agriculture, particularly regarding the cattle industry. Bill Northey, the Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, will give us a fourth generation corn and soybean farmer who knows the issues facing producers across the nation. I look forward to their speedy passage through the committee and floor votes, and urge the Senate to act on other nominees awaiting approval as well.”

USDA Brings Key Resources to Individuals and Communities Hit by Recent Hurricanes
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 6/ 17 (link source)

WASHINGTON, Oct. 6, 2017 – U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue today announced employees and agencies in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) continue to offer vital resources to help citizens and communities recover from the devastating effects of hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.

“USDA remains steadfast in its mission to work on behalf of every community in Texas, Florida, Georgia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to ensure that life-sustaining resources are available to our neighbors as they begin the hard work of rebuilding their lives and communities following these devastating storms,” Perdue said.  “We are coordinating hour-by-hour and day-by-day with state and local governments, the private and non-profit sectors, dozens of our federal sister agencies, and in some cases, key international partners, to bring aid to everyone in need.”

At the same time, Perdue noted that communities face a long, uphill battle on the road to recovery and pledged that USDA will do all it can to aid in that recovery. The following summary of key actions that USDA has taken to help individuals and communities cope with the aftermath of hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria exemplifies USDA’s commitment to all who have been impacted.

Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

APHIS' experience in responding to plant and animal health emergencies is vital to FEMA as it responds to recent hurricanes and a wide variety of emergencies. For example, APHIS continues to coordinate with multiple non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to ensure that pet food and resources are sent to points of distribution where human supplies are available. The agency is helping owners relocate with their pets and making entry of those pets into the United States as easy as possible. APHIS coordinated response efforts for exotic animal owners and zoos affected by the hurricanes.
At the request of Puerto Rico’s  government, APHIS is working to get pet assessment teams (NGOs) into the commonwealth to assess shelters and rescue facilities. In Texas and Florida, APHIS identified locations of stranded livestock and dropped feed  for stranded livestock in Texas and worked with officials there identify and re-patriate those that can be identified. In Florida, the agency played a key role in bringing a train load of much needed feed for dairy cows. Additionally, APHIS facilitated coordination among non-governmental organizations interested in providing hay, feed, and other products to support horses and livestock in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Food and Nutrition
As of September 29, USDA provided 40,296 cases  of USDA Foods that have been used by voluntary organizations to feed residents in Puerto Rico congregate settings and shelters. USDA also approved Puerto Rico to operate the Disaster Household Distribution program, which provides boxes of nutritious, USDA Foods. Approximately 500,000 households are expected to benefit.
FNS’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has responded with disaster assistance to households affected by the hurricanes by providing DSNAP to new households and replacing and supplementing food benefits to current participants.  As of October 1, SNAP benefits to victims of the hurricanes have totaled over $860 million.  Eligible households continue to apply for this important disaster relief.

USDA Helping Growers Build Success with New Technology
USDA BLOG POSTING DATED 10/ 5/ 17 (link source)

Everyone loves that burst of flavor you get when you eat a fresh fruit or vegetable. But we often don’t think about all the research, propagating, and growing by plant breeders that happens prior to giving us that great food experience. Plant breeders work hard to develop new varieties, which are crucial to continued agricultural production, at levels that provide us with food security. New varieties help address the challenges we face - from plant pest and disease outbreaks to an increasing world population.
USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has a long tradition of increasing the marketing options for American farmers, growers, and plant breeders. Our Plant Variety Protection Office (PVPO) grants certificates for intellectual property protection to developers of new plant varieties. These certificates enable breeders to market their variety exclusively for 20 years, providing them a strong incentive to invest the time and money to develop new improved varieties. These PVPO issued certificates are recognized worldwide, increasing trade opportunities for agricultural business across the country.

AMS identified a clear opportunity to improve the customer experience by adopting an innovative technology to automate plant variety protection applications. This week PVPO launched a new electronic Plant Variety Protection (ePVP) System.

The ePVP System features the ability to file applications with supporting data, analyses and high resolution photographs. The system also provides an efficient and secure way to pay fees electronically and makes it easier for customers to check the status of an application or amend an existing application.
Seminis Vegetable Seeds and Pioneer Hi-Bred International are just two of many customers that helped us pilot the first phase of the project.  With their evaluation and feedback, the web accessible system is now fully operational! Our improved services will benefit a variety of customers from land grant universities with plant breeding programs to specialized breeders such as 3 Star Lettuce and Highland Specialty Grains, and those companies with a long history of plant breeding like Ball Horticultural and Pure-Seed Testing.
The efficiency and cost savings from the new ePVP System will benefit both the customer and USDA. The new online system is just another example of AMS staff striving to provide the best service to American agriculture.

In the Face of Natural Disaster, USDA Answers the Call to Action
USDA BLOG POST DATED 10/ 4/ 17 (link source)

Over the last few weeks, we have seen parts of our country devastated by natural disasters. People in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands experienced devastation that affected every part of their life, including food, housing, and their livelihood. President Trump called on leaders and government officials at all levels to put bureaucracy aside and lend a helping hand to those in need. At USDA, we have done our best to answer that call.

As Hurricane Harvey hit land along the shores of Texas, USDA ramped up efforts to provide assistance before, during, and after this disaster. Just recently, I was given the opportunity to meet with Texas cotton producers hurt by the wreckage to their farms from caused hurt by Hurricane Harvey. Their crops were battered, but Texans don’t give up easily.

Unfortunately, Hurricane Harvey was not the only natural disaster to strike. Hurricane Irma swept decimated countless farms and crop yields. In Georgia, downed pecan trees may set growers as much as back 10 years. To survey the damage, I toured the impacted areas with local leaders to meet with farm owners and discuss how USDA can help them recover.

I made a similar stop in Florida, where Hurricane Irma caused losses of 50 to 70 percent of southern Florida’s citrus. Like in Texas, many were also left without proper access to food and nutrition. When they began reporting shortages of food, USDA made it easier for schools affected by Hurricane Irma to feed students during this time of great need. These sensible and timely flexibilities ensure children receive the assistance needed.

Finally, as Hurricane Maria swept through the Caribbean, causing great damage to Puerto Rico and other islands, USDA again answers the call to help. Before the storm, USDA spread information on how to preserve food. Now, we are now in full recovery mode. USDA Law Enforcement Officers from the Forest Service acted as first responders ensuring the lives and security of victims. Our Forest Service saw teams are on the ground clearing roads and facility access points. USDA Food Packages are in the hands of first responders with the American Red Cross and the National Guard, and are currently being distributed in Puerto Rico (as well as in Florida and Texas), and USDA Foods are being used for congregate feeding in the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. As communications come online and travel becomes possible through the hard work of our FEMA partners, USDA agents will be out in the fields with the farmers, ranchers, and landowners assessing damage to their operations and advising what USDA assistance is available to them. USDA will continue to offer all possible aid and assistance.

When it comes to natural disasters, President Trump’s directive is to help people first and deal with paperwork second; and that is exactly what USDA is doing. It is paramount that USDA makes it as easy as possible for our programs to be administered, so no one affected by this disaster goes hungry or loses their livelihood. While we as a nation continue to recover from these recent tragedies, USDA will continue our work providing help to those who need it most.

LOCAL MEETINGS AND AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS

CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION MEETINGS

CLALLAM COUNTY WORK SESSION AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS
1) Discussion of quiet title action, Riggs v Messinger, et al. Clallam County Superior Court No.  14-2-00983-9 to resolve the quiet title action, facilitate a correction of legal descriptions/boundaries and execute the appropriate documents to convey the right of way to Ms. Margaret Riggs (4a)*

2) Contract with State of Washington Department of Ecology for the continued operation of the Clallam Marine Resources Committee

3) Contract amendment 3 with Washington State Department of Social and Health Services to provide funds for September 30, 2017 to September 29, 2017 in the amount of $101,167
See full agenda

CLALLAM COUNTY REGULAR MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS
1) Request for proposal(s) to be received no later than 3 p.m., November 3; proposals will be opened publicly November 7 at 10 a.m. for Affordable Housing and Homeless Housing and Assistance Funds

2) Quiet title action, Riggs v Messinger, et al. Clallam County Superior Court No.
14-2-00983-9 to sign/execute the following documents: (1) Release and Hold Agreement, (2) Land Purchase Agreement, (3) Quit Claim Deed, (4) Real Estate Excise Tax Affidavit, and (5) Resolution – Directing the Conveyance of Tax title Property (this will be discussed during their work sesson on Monday.)
3) Contract with Aldergrove Construction, Inc. for the Superior Court Security Improvement project
( see full agenda)

OTHER LOCAL AND REGIONAL MEETINGS

CITY OF SEQUIM AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM: Resolution R2017-21 Notification of the City of Sequim's Intent to Conduct a Public Hearing for the Purpose of Assuming the Rights, Powers, Functions and Obligations of the Sequim Transportation Benefit District
(see full agenda)

JEFFERSON COUNTY COMMISSION AGENDA HIGHLIGHT
AGREEMENT re: Develop and Implement Coordinated Tobacco, Vapor Product and Marijuana Intervention Strategies; In the Amount of $50,000; Jefferson County Public Health; Kitsap Public Health District (see full agenda)

CITY OF FORKS AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM: Quillayute Airport Rehabilitation Project timeline
See full agenda

WORLD AND NATIONAL NEWS BRIEFS from REUTERS...

Danish divers find missing body parts of Swedish journalist
COPENHAGEN (Reuters) - Danish police said on Saturday divers had found the head and the legs of Swedish journalist Kim Wall, who died in mysterious circumstances on an inventor’s homemade submarine.

Russian opposition calls for Putin to quit at Moscow rally
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Supporters of jailed Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny gathered in Moscow on Saturday, calling for President Vladimir Putin to quit and let Navalny run in an election.

Trump undermines U.S. birth control coverage requirement
WASHINGTON/NEW YORK (Reuters) - President Donald Trump’s administration on Friday undermined requirements under the Obamacare law that employers provide insurance to cover women’s birth control, keeping a campaign pledge that pleased his conservative Christian supporters.

U.S. Treasury outlines sweeping reform of capital markets
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Treasury on Friday unveiled a blueprint for sweeping reforms of the U.S. capital markets as it looks to implement Republican President Donald Trump’s agenda to promote economic growth by slashing red tape.


Daily Bible Verse: [ Joy in the Fellowship of God ] [ A Psalm of David when he was in the wilderness of Judah. ] O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You In a dry and thirsty land Where there is no water.
Psalm 63:1 NKJV

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Cantwell, Bipartisan Coalition Pledge To Save America’s Most Important Conservation Program.

PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 5/ 17 (link source)

WASHINGTON, D.C. –Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Senate and House Colleagues, and stakeholders met today to sound the alarm about the looming expiration of America’s most important and successful conservation and recreation program, the Land and Water Conservation Fund.

“We love the land, and we love what it does for America. It may actually be the antidote to the information age that we live in, where we are so frenetic every day. The treasures that we have, to be able to go and find refuge in the outdoors, whether you are a hunter, fisherman, recreationist, or just communing with friends, it is one of the greatest treasures of our country,” said Sen. Cantwell. “Today I would say that it [LWCF] has become one of the most successful programs for preserving open space that we have in our nation. That is why we cannot allow it to continue to flounder in uncertainty for its future.”

Sen. Cantwell has long supported LWCF. One of the key accomplishments of the Energy and Natural Resources Act of 2017 (ENRA) introduced in June by Sen. Cantwell is the permanent authorization of LWCF. In May 2017, a bipartisan coalition of Senators, led by Maria Cantwell, wrote a letter urging the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies to support the LWCF. Senators Cantwell, Richard Burr (R-N.C.) and 20 other senators introduced bipartisan legislation to permanently authorize and fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) in March 2017.

Sen. Cantwell has also noted the economic benefits of the LWCF, which have increased significantly since her September 2016 statement. “The Land and Water Conservation Fund is the country’s most successful conservation law, supporting an outdoor economy of more than $600 billion annually and 6 million American jobs,” said Sen. Cantwell. “The LWCF is essential to preserving America’s public outdoor spaces, which improve our quality of life and provide important recreational and cultural opportunities.”

About the Land and Water Conservation Fund
The Land and Water Conservation Fund is America’s most important conservation program, responsible for protecting parks, trails, wildlife refuges and recreation areas at the federal, state and local level.  For over 50 years, it has successfully provided critical funding for land and water conservation projects, access to recreation including hunting and fishing, and the continued historic preservation of our nation’s iconic landmarks from coast-to-coast.  

The LWCF also funds important projects that protect drinking water resources, sensitive habitat for fish and wildlife, and private forestland. The state component of the program provides matching grants to states and localities for investments in outdoor recreation facilities, such as parks and playfields.

LWCF does not use any taxpayer dollars – it is funded using a small portion of revenues from offshore oil and gas royalty payments.  Outdoor recreation, conservation and historic preservation activities contribute more than a trillion dollars annually to the U.S. economy, supporting 9.4 million jobs.

In Washington State, popular recreation sites such as Olympic National Park, Lake Chelan and Riverside State Park have been preserved through the LWCF. Washingtonians have benefitted from access to trails and outdoor recreation opportunities, as well as clean air and water preservation, which would not have been possible without this fund.

About the LWCF Coalition
The LWCF Coalition is comprised of more than 1,000 state and regional conservation and recreation organizations of all sizes, land owners, small businesses, ranchers, sportsmen, veterans, the outdoor recreation industry and conservationists working together to protect America’s public lands and safeguard our shared outdoor heritage for future generations.

The Coalition is united in its advocacy for the permanent reauthorization and full funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which will ensure the continued conservation of our national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, wilderness, civil war battlefields, working lands and state and local parks.

OUR PARKS AND FOREST...

US INTERIOR DEPT: First Meeting Marks Significant Step Toward Restoring Public Trust, Collaborative Development of Federal Lands
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 4/ 17 (link source)

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke and Counselor to the Secretary for Energy Policy Vincent DeVito welcomed new members of the Royalty Policy Committee, which was re-chartered on March 29 by the Secretary after an 8 year absence.

After introductions by the Secretary, new members were briefed on a variety of topics from their ethical responsibilities as appointees under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, to a detailed account of economic considerations the Department uses when offering public lands for lease.

The Committee was re-chartered in an effort to provide a continuous forum for interested stakeholders to debate and deliberate recommendations to the Secretary on ensuring the public receives full value of natural resources produced on federal and Indian lands, including renewable energy sources. The Committee may also advise on the potential impacts of proposed policies and regulations related to revenue collection, including whether a needs exists for regulatory reform.

Topics presented at the meeting ranged from ways to promote the expansion of American energy development, to providing greater input for local communities affected by leasing activities, to reassessing the economic models used by the Department.

Another topic discussed was valuation of oil, gas, and coal for royalty purposes. Long-standing regulations governing valuation were amended by the Consolidated Federal Oil and Gas and Federal and Indian Coal Valuation Reform Rule, which was to take effect on January 1, 2017, but was stayed, then repealed, after discovery of certain difficulties in implementation. The Committee has been tasked with determining the need for regulatory change that is consistent with this administration's goals of increasing domestic energy production and revenues while reducing regulatory burdens.

After the members were briefed on these issues, three subcommittees were formed: the Subcommittee on Fair Return and Revenue, which will review fair market return from resources produced on public lands; the Subcommittee on Planning, Analysis, and Competitiveness, which will assess the economic modeling used by the Department, present and future royalty rates, and ways to increase revenues and competition; and the Subcommittee on Indian Affairs, which will address issues specific to Tribal lands and trust.

The Committee is composed of 28 state, Tribal, and other stakeholder representatives. This is the first time the Committee has featured a member from the renewable energy sector. The Chairman is Vincent DeVito, Counselor to the Secretary for Energy Policy, and the Executive Director is James Schindler.

Interior Department Supported $254 Billion in Economic Activity and Nearly 1.7 million Jobs in FY 2016
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 9/ 29/ 17 (link source)

WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke today released the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Economic Report for Fiscal Year 2016. The report highlights that Interior activities supporting conventional and renewable energy, recreation, conservation, water energy supported $254 billion in economic output and nearly 1.7 million jobs during the year.

National parks, refuges, monuments and other public lands managed by Interior hosted an estimated 473 million recreational visits in 2016—up from 443 million in 2015—these visits supported $50 billion in economic output and about 426,000 jobs nationwide.

The Department’s diverse portfolio includes the management of some 500 million acres of public lands, and another 1.7 billion acres offshore on the Outer Continental Shelf. In addition, the Department is the Nation’s largest supplier and manager of water in 17 Western states. It oversees cutting-edge scientific research in the areas of geology, hydrology and biology and serves as Trustee for 567 federally-recognized American Indian and Alaska Native tribes.

Highlights from the report include:

Fossil Fuel Energy: In FY 2016, Interior-managed lands and waters produced 768 million barrels of crude oil, 4.7 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, and 310 million tons of coal, supporting $68.3 billion in value added, $117.7 billion in economic output, and 582,000 jobs.
Renewable Energy: In FY 2016, Interior lands and facilities produced 36.7 million MWh of hydropower (enough to power 3.4 million homes). Renewable energy projects on Interior lands – solar (6,859MW), wind (3,568 MW), and geothermal energy (1,543 MW) -- supported $3.8 billion in economic output and 17,000 jobs in FY 2016.
Non-fuel Minerals: In FY 2016, Interior lands produced a wide variety of non-fuel minerals, supporting value added of $6.1 billion, economic output of $11.4 billion, and 39,000 jobs.
Recreation: In FY 2016, Interior’s lands hosted an estimated 473 million visits, supporting $28.1 billion in value added, $50.0 billion in economic output, and 426,000 jobs.
Water: Interior stores and delivers water for irrigation, municipal and industrial (M&I), and other uses supporting $28.9 billion in value added $49.7 billion in economic output, and 399,000 jobs in FY 2016. Interior also delivers water to support in-stream flows, wildlife refuges, and other uses that not typically reflected in economic contribution estimates.
Forage and Grazing: In FY 2016, Interior lands provided access to 8.6 million animal unit months (AUMs) of forage, supporting $2.4 billion in economic output and 41,000 jobs.
Timber: In FY 2016, about 673,000 mbf of sawtimber was harvested on BLM and tribal lands, supporting $0.48 billion in value added, $1.4 billion in economic output, and 6,200 jobs.
Grants/Payments: Activities related to grant and payment programs administered by Interior supported $6.4 billion in value added, $9.1 billion in economic contributions, and 84,000 jobs in FY 2016.
Conservation: Conservation is a component of recreation, restoration, water management, and even some mineral development activities. The value of these activities is not typically reflected in economic contribution estimates.
Scientific Data: Interior’s data collection and research promote economic growth and innovation and play a role in promoting American competitiveness in a global marketplace. The value of these activities is not typically reflected in economic contribution estimates.
The report is paired with a web-based data visualization tool that lets the user customize the contribution analysis by bureau, activity or State. You can access the tool and download the full economic report, with a discussion of the analysis and methodology applied on the internet at https://doi.sciencebase.gov/doidv/.

STATE LEVEL

WDFW: Most popular hunting seasons of the year open Oct. 14
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 3/ 17 (link source)

OLYMPIA – Some of Washington's most popular hunting seasons will get underway Oct. 14, when modern firearm deer hunters and waterfowl hunters take to the field.
The harsh winter of 2016-17 appears to have taken a toll on some elk and deer populations—especially in parts of eastern Washington, said Jerry Nelson, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) deer and elk section manager.

Still, hunting prospects in many areas look promising as hunts get underway this fall, he added.

"Winter conditions in recent years, wildfires, fall green-up and weather during the hunting season are just some of the factors that can influence deer numbers and distribution," said Nelson. "That is why we are encouraging hunters to review the Hunting Prospects on WDFW's website to find location-specific forecasts."

WDFW's 2017 Hunting Prospects reports (http://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/prospects/) include local information on what upcoming seasons may hold.

Hunters will also take to the field for waterfowl. Last season, nearly 550,000 waterfowl were harvested in Washington. Duck, goose, coot and snipe seasons open Oct. 14.

The exceptions include dusky Canada goose hunting, which is closed in Goose Management Area 2. Brant season, determined by the midwinter waterfowl survey, is also currently closed, but may open on selected dates in January. Scaup season is also currently closed, but opens on Nov. 4.

"Washington can anticipate a strong fall flight," said WDFW waterfowl manager Kyle Spragens. "With exceptional habitat conditions in Washington this past spring, and strong numbers of birds spotted during surveys in Alaska and Canada, things are looking fantastic."

WDFW has already received reports of early arriving cackling, white-fronted, and snow geese, he added.

Information on access to more than 1 million acres of private land can be found at the Private Lands Hunting Access page (http://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/hunting_access/private_lands/).

Hunters can also find information on public or private lands open to hunting by visiting GoHunt, WDFW's interactive mapping program (http://apps.wdfw.wa.gov/gohunt/).

Hunters can purchase their licenses at https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov, at any WDFW license dealer (http://wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/vendors/) or by calling WDFW's licensing customer service number at (360) 902-2464.


WDFW to host meeting on options for 2018 halibut season
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 3/ 17 (link source)

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will host a public meeting Oct. 12 to discuss management options for the 2018 halibut season.

The meeting will be held from 9 a.m. to noon, Oct. 12, at Montesano City Hall, 112 N. Main St.

State halibut managers will provide an overview of options under consideration by the Pacific Fisheries Management Council (PFMC) for recreational and commercial fisheries during next year's fishing 2018 season.

WDFW will then invite public comments on those options and consider that input in developing recommendations to the PFMC before the federally established council meets in November.

"All of these options are based on suggestions made by anglers to improve the state's halibut fishery," said Heather Reed, coastal policy coordinator for WDFW. "We know there is a lot of interest in upcoming halibut seasons, and we encourage the public to participate in this meeting."

Reed said one key option under consideration is to structure the state's recreational halibut fisheries on the north coast, south coast and Puget Sound marine areas around common dates, as was done this year. Within that structure, the PFMC has proposed two new options:

Maintain area-specific quotas where those waters would remain open to halibut fishing until their quotas are reached.
Manage the first four days of the season under a shared quota, then distribute any remaining quota to each area according to its established allocation. Additional fisheries for each area would then depend on whether there is sufficient quota to support them.
Other options under consideration include:

Establishing an annual catch limit of two to six fish for individual anglers.
Change the days of the week the Columbia River all-depth fishery is open to allow anglers to fish Thursday, Friday and Sunday.
Lower the cap on the amount of halibut allocated to the commercial sablefish fishery, which incidentally harvests halibut while targeting sablefish. This option would be in effect when the overall quota for Washington, Oregon and California is less than 1.5 million pounds.
More information about these options can be found online at http://www.pcouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/G1b_Sup_WDFW_Rpt2_SEPT2017BB.pdf.

OUR ENVIRONMENT...

EPA to Discharge Wastewater, Implement Hurricane Response Plan at the Mississippi Phosphates Corporation Site in Pascagoula, Miss., as Tropical Storm Nate Advances
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 5/ 17 (link source)

ATLANTA (October 5, 2017) In anticipation of heavy rainfall and storm surge associated with Tropical Storm Nate, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that a discharge of wastewater will begin today at the Mississippi Phosphates Corporation (MPC) Site in Pascagoula, Miss. This intentional discharge of wastewater, known as a bypass, is being conducted because rain and associated storm surge from the advancing storm is forecasted to exceed storage capacity of the on-site phosphogypsum stacks and wastewater treatment system. Prior to Tropical Storm Nate making landfall as a hurricane, EPA is also implementing the Hurricane Response Plan for the Site and will be installing the hurricane storm surge gates.
Maintaining site safety is EPA’s top priority in order to protect workers, nearby residents and the surrounding environment. EPA is coordinating closely with the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) and local officials to closely monitor the weather forecast and determine appropriate next steps.
Over the past 36 hours, Tropical Storm Nate has tracked further westward and is currently forecasted to make landfall near coastal Mississippi. Between three to five inches of rain are forecasted for the Pascagoula area. Based on the uncertainty of the final landfall and potential increase of rainfall and storm surge, EPA plans to discharge approximately 40 million gallons of wastewater to ensure there is adequate storage on-site for additional rainfall and reduce risks of uncontrolled releases.
EPA will keep potentially impacted stakeholders informed of site conditions and of any additional public precautionary measures needed.
Wastewater bypasses authorized by the EPA must follow strict guidelines laid out in the Contingency Plan for Bypass and Spill Response for the facility. Discharged wastewater is partially treated and there are no anticipated impacts to the environment. EPA will continue sampling and monitoring of Bayou Casotte per the Contingency Plan.
MPC is a former diammonium phosphate fertilizer plant that began operation in the 1950s. The facility ceased operations in December 2014 under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, leaving more than 700,000,000 gallons of low-pH, contaminated wastewater stored at the facility.
On Feb. 11, 2017, EPA assumed temporary control of wastewater treatment operations at the former MPC fertilizer facility once the MPC Environmental Trust, which owns the property, ran out of funds. Currently, EPA is overseeing wastewater treatment at a rate of approximately 2 million gallons per day. EPA will continue to oversee wastewater treatment operations at the MPC Site until the facility is sold or cleaned up and closed. EPA proposed listing the Site on the Superfund National Priorities List on August 8, 2017.

EPA awards $32 million for tribal environmental programs in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 5/ 17 (link source)

SEATTLE – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today that it is awarding $32 million in Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP) grants  to tribes and tribal consortia in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington.

GAP funding helps tribes develop environmental protection programs and make informed decisions about issues that impact the health of their people and the quality of their environment.  Since its inception, EPA's GAP program has played a critical role in achieving environmental progress and facilitating government-to-government relationships between tribes and the EPA.

“Tribes continue to make great strides in environmental protection and improving public health,” said Scott Pruitt, EPA Administrator. “EPA’s Indian Environmental General Assistance Program empowers tribes to build the capacity to support successful environmental programs to protect public health and their air, water and lands.”
“The GAP program is vitally important in this region because about half of the federally recognized tribes in the nation are in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest,” said EPA Acting Regional Administrator Michelle Pirzadeh. “Many tribes in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest have small governments and these funds assist tribes to establish and sustain environmental protection programs.”
Federally recognized tribes in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest use these capacity building grants for staff development, creating environmental plans, seeking technical assistance, developing partnerships and collaboration, and community outreach and education – the building blocks for successful environmental programs.
In recent years, tribes in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest have used the funds for fish consumption studies, watershed protection, emergency response planning, shoreline erosion monitoring, and documenting traditional ecological knowledge to inform environmental program actions.  GAP grants have helped tribes with challenging conditions in rural Alaska by reducing harmful road dust produced from driving on unpaved dirt roads, encouraging proper ventilation to improve air quality in homes tightly-sealed for cold weather, and by advancing recycling and proper management of household hazardous waste.
The EPA’s Pacific Northwest Region 10 serves communities and administers federal environmental laws in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington in partnership with the region’s 271 federally recognized tribes, states, and other federal agencies.
The GAP program was created by Congress in 1992 to provide grants for federally recognized tribes to plan, develop, and establish the capability to implement core environmental programs administered by EPA.  EPA technical experts and tribal coordinators share their expertise with tribal environmental staff to guide and inform strategy development, research, technical needs, and compliance and enforcement.

ON THE STATE LEVEL...

DOE: Ecology proposes new rule for managing public funds
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/ 4/ 17 (link source)

LACEY – Nearly $250 million of the Washington Department of Ecology’s budget is awarded to local communities through grants and loans. Ecology has drafted a new rule that will govern how the agency manages some of those funds, and is looking for public review and comment on it.
The new rule applies to grant and loan programs that the Legislature authorized to use Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA) funds. It will not change how grants and loans are currently managed but put existing best practices into rule to meet the agency’s legal obligation.
“We’ve been entrusted by the Legislature to responsibly manage public funds,” said Chief Financial Officer Erik Fairchild. “Our goal is to give grant and loan recipients clarity about the state’s expectations for spending these funds.”
State law requires Ecology to adopt rules for grant and loan programs that are funded by MTCA. Several grant programs funded by MTCA accounts already have detailed rules that outline distribution and performance standards. This new rule will not affect those grants and loans.
Public comments on the proposed rule are being accepted until Nov. 14, 2017.

WORLD AND NATIONAL NEWS BRIEFS from REUTERS

North Korea preparing long-range missile test: RIA cites Russian lawmaker
MOSCOW (Reuters) - North Korea is preparing to test a long-range missile which it believes can reach the west coast of the United States, RIA news agency cited a Russian lawmaker as saying on Friday.

U.N. fears 'further exodus' of Muslim Rohingya from Myanmar
GENEVA/YANGON (Reuters) - The United Nations braced on Friday for a possible “further exodus” of Muslim Rohingya refugees from Myanmar into Bangladesh six weeks after the world’s fastest-developing refugee emergency began, U.N. humanitarian aid chief said.

In meeting with military, Trump talks of 'calm before the storm'
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - After discussing Iran and North Korea with U.S. military leaders on Thursday, President Donald Trump posed for a photo with them before dinner and declared the moment “the calm before the storm.”

Republicans move on tax reform; Fed officials see economic threats
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Congressional Republicans moved to hasten an overhaul of the U.S. tax code on Thursday, while Federal Reserve officials warned in rare public remarks that President Donald Trump’s tax plan could lead to inflation and unsustainable federal debt.

Daily Bible Verse: Trust in the Lord forever, For in YAH, the Lord, is everlasting strength.

Isaiah 26:4 NKJV

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