CONGRESSIONAL WATCH & ADVOCACY NOTEBOOK

 CONGRESSIONAL WATCH

" A weekly look at the goings ons of our congressional delegation to Washington DC"

Hirono, Rounds, Kilmer, Jones Introduce Bill to Cut Red Tape for Defense Department Employees
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono and Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill to repeal burdensome Department of Defense requirements for service members and civilian employees. The bill would correct a Department of Defense rules that increase the burden of finding affordable lodging while on assignment for individual employees rather than the department or service making the assignment.
“Military members and Department of Defense civilians should not have to worry about potential financial burdens and red tape related to travel away from home,” said Senator Hirono. “This commonsense legislation will continue to allow Department of Defense employees in Hawaii and around the world to do their jobs without jumping through unnecessary hoops.”
“Our service members and their families make incredible sacrifices to keep us safe,” said Senator Rounds. “They shouldn’t be faced with unnecessary stress or financial burdens when a service member is on a temporary assignment that could last for months. Our legislation would make sure no active duty service member would be denied reimbursements for off-base housing expenses when they are on long-term temporary duty. It is but one small step we can take to improve the quality of life for the men and women who are selflessly defending our country.  This measure will support service members and their families serving at Ellsworth Air Force Base and Joe Foss Field as well as South Dakotans serving in our armed forces around the world.” ---press release issued 4. 12. 17
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-rounds-kilmer-jones-introduce-bill-to-cut-red-tape-for-defense-department-employees


With Budget Deadline Looming, Sen. Murray Visits Seattle Radio Station, Research Center—Just Two of Many Local Programs That Would Be Hit Hard By President Trump’s Proposed Budget Cuts
(Washington, D.C.) — Today, just two weeks from a deadline to reach a budget deal to avert a federal government shutdown, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) visited local radio station KEXP and nationally-recognized research center UW Medicine to speak out against President Trump’s harmful budget proposal released last month. First, Senator Murray visited KEXP’s new broadcast and education facility to hear from station representatives from not only KEXP but also KUOW, KNKX, and KCTS about the importance of federal funding and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). Senator Murray then went to UW Medicine, the largest recipient of National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding in Washington state, and the top public university recipient in the country. She toured an immunology lab, then heard from a patient, researcher, and doctor about the potential impacts to critical, life-saving research being done at UW Medicine if President Trump’s budget were to be put in place.

“Both of these institutions are such important parts of the Puget Sound region, and are facing devastating cuts,” said Senator Murray. “I am very concerned about proposed cuts to the arts and public broadcasting, and to the National Institutes of Health which funds critical, life-saving research and is a key job creator in our region. Families in Washington state and across the country want a budget that invests in them, their communities, and their futures – and I will be fighting back against this budget as hard as I can.”---press release issued 4. 12. 17
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=C32E915C-3D75-4B26-8736-3AA9012F01FB

Sen. Murray Tours Naval Air Station Whidbey Island WIC Office That She Fought to Keep Open
(SEATTLE, WA) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) visited the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island to tour the base, meet staff members, and learn more about the services offered to Navy personnel and their families, including the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) office. In 2015, the Navy planned to close the WIC office on base in a Department of Defense-wide decision to remove non-federal organizations from military bases. Senator Murray fought back against this closing, working with the WIC office to prevent the closure and ensure these critical services continued to be offered to families at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. In December 2015, the Navy offered the WIC office a five-year lease without the previously-required fees that would have been expensive for the organization running the WIC office to compensate, allowing the office to remain open.
"After visiting base today, I can see the services offered here are clearly an important part of the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island community,” said Senator Murray. “Making sure our military families have the support they need to put food on the table is the least we should be doing. I was proud to fight to reverse the decision to close the WIC office on base, and I will keep up the fight along with the strong support of the Navy to ensure we are doing everything we can to support the military community that sacrifices so much for their country."---press release issued 4. 12. 17
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=98A25CE0-FED1-41DF-9F60-752672C06C69


Murray, Cantwell to DHS: Do Not Fund Campaign Promises through Cuts to Security Programs That Keep Us Safe ----Apr 07 2017 press release issued
WASHINGTON, DC – A coalition of 21 U.S. Senators, including Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) today strongly urged U.S. Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly to reconsider proposed budget cuts to airport, seaport, and mass transit security programs in order to fund President Trump’s request for more than $4 billion to construct a wall along America’s southern border.

“We are concerned that in furtherance of President Trump’s quest to build a concrete wall along our Southern border, his budget proposes drastic cuts for key agencies within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that are tasked with protecting our borders against current threats, including programs at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency which could include mass transit, aviation and port security grants,” the senators wrote. “We are concerned that the President’s budget request fails to address our real immigration challenges and trades proven programs – those that are currently protecting Americans from actual threats to our national security – for the purpose of aggressively implementing a campaign promise. We request that you take these immigration and national security concerns under consideration and modify the President’s Fiscal Year 2018 Budget accordingly.”
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=9058AD48-CB1D-4081-A6EA-BBF85F358ABC

Cantwell, Murray Send Letter to Attorney General on Administration’s Troubling Review of Consent Decrees
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA), along with 15 Senate Democrats, pressed Attorney General Jeff Sessions for answers on the Department of Justice’s plan to review consent decrees between the federal government and local law enforcement agencies. The Senators asked Attorney General Sessions to lay out the impact of the review, including if the Department of Justice’s actions could result in the termination or modification of existing consent decrees.

“Consent decrees offer both parties the opportunity to negotiate a mutually beneficial reform structure that seeks to both protect the constitutional rights of citizens and improve the working conditions and safety of police officers,” the Senators wrote. “It is a false choice to prioritize one over the other.  These carefully crafted agreements are the products of long and thorough investigations and negotiations, and are subject to court approval. To undo the progress made by the DOJ and various police departments is to undermine the collaborative nature of these agreements.”---Press release issued 4. 12. 17
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-send-letter-to-attorney-general-on-administrations-troubling-review-of-consent-decrees

Cantwell, Murray Tell Trump: Don’t Reverse National Monument Designations
Senators urge President Trump to uphold protections for Bears Ears National Monument, all 157 national monuments

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) joined a group of Western Democratic senators in calling on President Donald Trump to live up to his repeated promises on the campaign trail to protect public lands for all Americans and uphold the existing protections for the 157 national monuments, which have been designated throughout the decades by nearly every U.S. president of the last century. Washington state is home to four—Olympic National Park, the Hanford Reach National Monument, the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, and the San Juan Islands National Monument.--Press release 4. 12. 17
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-tell-trump-dont-reverse-national-monument-designations-

Cantwell, Colleagues Call for Pruitt to Address Conflicts of Interest Regarding Clean Power Plan
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ranking Member on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.), top Democrat on the Environment and Public Works Committee, led colleagues in calling for Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt to address the apparent conflict of interest regarding his participation in EPA’s review of the Clean Power Plan, which Mr. Pruitt formerly challenged in court as Oklahoma’s Attorney General. ---press release issued 4. 10. 17
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-colleagues-call-for-pruitt-to-address-conflicts-of-interest-regarding-clean-power-plan

Cantwell Statement on Chemical Weapons Attack in Syria and U.S. Military Action
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement after the United States’ response to the Syrian government’s chemical weapons attack on its own people:
“Last night’s targeted strike on assets to stop Assad’s chemical attack on innocent people, including children, was appropriate.  The international community and U.N. should move more aggressively to counter Assad on his violation of Syria’s obligations to get rid of their chemical weapons.
“The President must lay out a comprehensive strategy for the conflict in Syria that includes clear goals, diplomatic objectives, partnership with the international community, and dealing with the refugee crisis.
“With more than five million refugees that have fled Syria, more needs to be done by the U.S. and international community to provide humanitarian support.”---press release issued 4. 7. 17
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-chemical-weapons-attack-in-syria-and-us-military-action

ADVOCACY NOTEBOOK

US DEPT. OF LABOR: Helping Homeless Veterans Get Back on Their Feet
oy, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, lost her business amid the 2008 financial crisis, and was forced to live out of her van. Being homeless made even relatively simple tasks complicated, but over time, Joy found that she was growing accustomed to homelessness, making it even harder for her to get back to work. It wasn’t until Joy enrolled in the Atlanta Center for Self Sufficiency’s Homeless Veterans’ Reintegration Program, or HVRP, that she was able to get back on her feet. The center helped her find a home and a sense of purpose, and even hired her as a veteran outreach specialist.
Funded by the Labor Department, HVRP provides services to help homeless veterans reenter the workforce, which in turn gets them back on track in other aspects of life.  Services include occupational, classroom and on-the-job training, as well as job search and placement assistance, including follow-up services. Real employment opportunities help veterans reach both financial stability and independence.
HVRP programs are available throughout the country in different regions and neighborhoods, though the majority of these programs are in urban areas where homeless veterans tend to be heavily concentrated.
HVRP has been helping homeless veterans since it was authorized in 1987 under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act. In 2010, the program expanded its scope to include services for homeless female veterans, veterans with families, and formerly incarcerated veterans. This year, the department’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service expects to award approximately $12 million in HVRP awards.
According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, there were 39,471 homeless veterans as of 2016. Thanks to the efforts of HVRP and other local veteran assistance programs, this number has decreased 48 percent since 2009, but as long as any single veteran remains homeless, there is work to be done.
Through their admirable service, veterans like Joy who face adversity after transitioning back to civilian life have earned some help from their country. Through programs like HVRP, we honor the men and women who served by giving them an opportunity to reach their goals and become who they want to be.
Kenneth Fenner is the competitive grants lead at the department’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service. Stay connected by following @VETS_DOL on Twitter and visiting www.veterans.gov
From the US LABOR DEPT Blog: https://blog.dol.gov/2017/04/11/helping-homeless-veterans-get-back-their-feet

Disability Scoop: Teacher, Students Shot In Special Ed Classroom
A gunman walked into a special ed classroom and opened fire on his wife, a teacher there, and then killed himself, police said. Stray bullets struck two students, one of whom later died.
https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2017/04/11/teacher-students-shot-special-ed/23561/

Disability Scoop: Waterproof Power Wheelchair May Be Headed To Market
Most power wheelchairs are heavy and work well — but only if they stay dry. A new waterproof chair that's durable, lightweight and quick to recharge could be a game changer.
https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2017/04/11/waterproof-power-wheelchair-market/23564/

Editorial note: I sure could use of these chairs!

NEWS BUSTERS: Unhinged Journalist's Conspiracy: Is United Debacle a ‘Distraction’ From Trump?
Readers who haven't recently ventured into the fever swamp known as the Los Angeles Times may have a hard time fathoming how utterly obsessed what used to the be the West Coast's paper of record has become with the threat to civilization known as Donald Trump
http://www.newsbusters.org/blogs/nb/tom-blumer/2017/04/13/pulitzer-winner-michael-hiltziks-united-trump-conspiracy-tweet

FAO: BEGA VALLEY: FLUORIDE FEEDBACK WEBSITE CLOSES WITH A FLURRY OF SUBMISSIONS
More than 300 submissions have been posted on Bega Valley Shire Council’s ‘Have Your Say’ website on fluoride since it was set up four months ago.
http://fluoridealert.org/news/bega-valley-fluoride-feedback-website-closes-with-a-flurry-of-submissions/

Rights of refugees and migrants with disabilities must be priority in new global action plan – UN experts
12 April 2017 – Accessible social and health services, with dedicated human and financial resources must be addressed and made available for persons with disabilities in the new global framework on refugees and migrants, a group of United Nations human rights experts have urged, as UN-led intergovernmental talks on the issue are set to launch consultation in 2018.---UN NEWS CENTER
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56555#.WO-iYvkrIps

DAILY DEVOTIONAL
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.---Romans 3:23-24 NIV
Free bible study offered by World Bible School
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/

WEEKLY LOOK AT NATIONAL NEWS AND EVENTS

WH: President Trump: Creating an Efficient, Effective and Accountable Federal Government
“Billions and billions of dollars are being wasted on activities that are not delivering results for hardworking American taxpayers.” – President Donald J. Trump
ACTION TO REFORM THE GOVERNMENT: Following President Donald J. Trump’s lead, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is taking action to reorganize the Federal agencies and reduce wasteful or duplicative functions.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/12/president-trump-creating-efficient-effective-and-accountable-federal

Remarks by President Trump in Strategic and Policy CEO Discussion
THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you all for being here.  Very much appreciate it.  I want to thank Steve Schwarzman for putting together this very incredible group of world-class business leaders.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/11/remarks-president-trump-strategic-and-policy-ceo-discussion

Remarks by President Trump and Justice Gorsuch at Swearing-in of Justice Gorsuch to the Supreme Court
THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you very much.  Friends and distinguished guests, welcome to the White House.  We are gathered here today for a truly momentous occasion in our democracy -- the swearing-in of a United States Supreme Court justice.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/10/remarks-president-trump-and-justice-gorsuch-swearing-justice-gorsuch

A Letter from the President to the President of the Senate
TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT, TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE April 11, 2017
Dear Mr. President:
Consistent with the condition set forth in the Senate resolution of advice and consent to ratification of the Protocol to the North Atlantic Treaty on the Accession of Montenegro of March 28, 2017, and based on the recommendation of the Department of State, I hereby certify to the Senate that:
(i)   the inclusion of Montenegro in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will not have the effect of increasing the overall percentage share of the United States in the common budgets of NATO; and
(ii)  the inclusion of Montenegro in NATO does not detract from the ability of the United States to meet or to fund its military requirements outside the North Atlantic area.
Sincerely, DONALD J. TRUMP
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/11/letter-president-president-senate

President Donald J. Trump’s Weekly Address
My Fellow Americans,
We're only 11 weeks in, but already my administration has achieved historic progress for the American people – in fact, 93% of our domestic manufacturers have expressed optimism in the future, a record.
The confidence we are seeing in our Nation is about jobs and opportunity – but it's also about safety and security.
Security begins at the border – as a candidate, I pledged to take swift and decisive action to secure the border, and that is exactly what I have done.  We inherited a full-fledged border crisis – it was a disaster.  Yet, with quick and bold steps, we have so far exceeded even the most bullish predictions for the progress we could make in so short a period of time.  Last month, we saw a 64% reduction in illegal immigration on our southern border.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/07/president-donald-j-trumps-weekly-address

WORLD SPOTLIGHT REPORT: Putin says trust erodes under Trump, Moscow icily receives Tillerson (REU)
Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday trust had eroded between the United States and Russia under President Donald Trump, as Moscow delivered an unusually hostile reception to Secretary of State Rex Tillerson in a face-off over Syria.
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-russia-idUSKBN17E1AF

Editorial Note: Well contrary to news reports earlier, looks like Putin did meet with the Secretary of State. That's a start. He took the opportunity to bash the US, instead of trying to work for the greater good however, like reigning in his pal Assad to stop the use of chemical weapons on his own people.

For more national news and events see page 2

WORLD NEWS WEEKLY

A WEEKLY LOOK AT WORLD NEWS AND EVENTS

From the UN NEWS CENTER
Commission on Population and Development Fails to Adopt Outcome Document as Fiftieth Session Concludes
‘It Is a Major Failure,’ Says Chair, as 3 Draft Decisions Win Approval of Members
Concluding its fiftieth session today, the Commission on Population and Development failed to reach consensus on its outcome document, while approving three draft decisions, including one determining the themes for upcoming sessions.
Following the failure to reach consensus on the outcome document, Commission Chair Alya Ahmed Saif al-Thani (Qatar) withdrew the relevant draft resolution — titled “changing population age structures and sustainable development” — and expressed regret that “we have not been able to resolve differences and reach compromise”.  She praised the efforts of all participants, but emphasized:  “It is a major failure.”  She sought authorization to prepare a Chair’s summary of the discussion on the draft resolution, to which reference would be made in the report of the fiftieth session.
http://www.un.org/press/en/2017/pop1060.doc.htm

Millions across Africa, Yemen could be at risk of death from starvation – UN agency
11 April 2017 – Warning of increasing risk of mass deaths from starvation in many countries in Africa and in Yemen due to worsening drought and conflict, the United Nations refugee agency has called for international support to prevent the repeat of the 2011 tragedy in the Horn of Africa that claimed more than 260,000 lives.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56539#.WOzy4vnysps

Malala Yousafzai designated youngest-ever UN Messenger of Peace
10 April 2017 – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres today designated children’s rights activist and Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai as a UN Messenger of Peace with a special focus on girls’ education.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56536#.WOzzHfnysps

Urgent action needed to stave off ‘hunger crisis’ in Iraq – UN food relief agency
10 April 2017 – Warning that deepening food insecurity in Iraq could leave more than half the population facing “unprecedented levels” of vulnerability, the United Nations emergency food relief agency today called for improving nutrition awareness and strengthening social safety nets and livelihoods in rural areas, to avoid a hunger crisis in the country.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56533#.WOzzhPnysps

Millions of children in Yemen vaccinated against polio through UN-backed campaign
10 April 2017 – Despite daunting challenges, United Nations agencies and partners in war-torn Yemen have completed a major nationwide polio inoculation campaign, vaccinating nearly five million children under the age of five against the paralyzing disease.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56531#.WOzz5Pnysps


For more world news headlines see page 2


NEWS NOTEBOOK

WA COMMERCE DEPT: Companies thrilled with Aircraft Interiors show experience
“Very happy.” “Productive.” “Great value.” These are just a few snippets of the glowing reviews from all of the companies participating in the Commerce-led trip to Aircraft Interiors Expo 2017 in Hamburg, Germany this week.
http://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/companies-thrilled-aircraft-interiors-show-experience/

BUSINESS AND FINANCE REPORT

US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWS
The State of American Education and Workforce
Opportunity is at the heart of the American Dream, and at the heart of opportunity is a job. When the right person fills the right job, we all benefit—families, neighborhoods, businesses. We all grow and prosper. Yet, there’s a disconnect in our country. The national unemployment rate has fallen since the depths of the Great Recession, but we still have too many people without jobs and too many jobs without people.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/the-state-american-education-and-workforce

Torts and Rules Can Stunt Tech Sector Growth
New innovations and technologies are fertile ground for economic growth. They lead to startup companies, job creation, and a rush of capital and investment. But once a technology gets big, it’s never long before government regulators and aggressive trial lawyers swoop in to crash the party. Hasty regulations and expansive liability stunt the sector’s growth and slam the brakes on job creation.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/torts-and-rules-can-stunt-tech-sector-growth

Chamber Snapshots: The First Quarter of 2017 in Photos
2017 is off to a busy start for the U.S. Chamber. From various activities on Capitol Hill to visiting Chambers across the country, there's never a dull moment. Read on to see the Chamber in action.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/chamber-snapshots-the-first-quarter-2017-photos

Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch: A Victory For Free Enterprise
Today, following the actions of over 15,000 Chamber grassroots members and over 30,000 emails to the U.S. Senate, Neil Gorsuch was confirmed as Associate Justice to the Supreme Court by a 54-45 vote. This is a great victory for the American business community, as our President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue stated:

"We congratulate Judge Neil Gorsuch on his confirmation to the U.S. Supreme Court... Gorsuch’s qualifications have never been in doubt, and he will undoubtedly use his gifted legal mind to help our country sort through our toughest questions for years to come. We commend the U.S. Senate for overcoming the first partisan filibuster of a Supreme Court nominee to restore the court to a full nine justices."
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/associate-justice-neil-gorsuch-victory-free-enterprise

The Clean Power Plan is Dead! Or is it?
There certainly has been a plethora of dramatic reporting on last week’s “Promoting Energy Independence and Economic Growth” executive order signed by President Trump. Some view it as the rebirth of America’s coal industry, others say it will have little effect, and still others are lamenting the end of the planet.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/the-clean-power-plan-dead-or-it


For more Business and finance news headlines see page 2

NEWS NOTEBOOK

RUSSIAN TIT FOR TAT MANEUVER
REU: Kremlin, angry at Syria missile strike, says Putin won't meet Tillerson
The Kremlin said on Monday that U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will not meet President Vladimir Putin when he visits Moscow on Wednesday, a move that could point to tensions over a U.S. missile attack on a Syrian air base last week.
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-putin-tillerson-idUSKBN17C13K

Editorial Note: Putin, apparently thought that Trump was going to be a puppet president, guess what Vlad, he isn't. Now, the Russians can pony up and admit they had a hand in the Syrian gas attack, and try to make amends for what happened, or continue down the path of even more hard times ahead. Putin has an opportunity here to show he can play nice and meet the Secretary of State, regardless what happened, or play the avoiding game.

APRIL 4th PORT MEETING HIGHLIGHT ITEM

Fishing Fleet Modernization Study, presented by Commissioner Colleen McAleer

During their last meeting Port Commissioner McAleer presented the following study of the fishing fleet modernization study, the following is the staff memo which was present on their April 4th meeting:

BACKGROUND:

The Washington Maritime Federation and the Port of Seattle commissioned a study

entitled “Modernization of the North Pacific Fishing Fleet – An Economic Opportunity

Analysis” in November 2016. The study and brochure (attached) provide in-depth

information and analysis on the aging of North Pacific fleet’s fishing vessels and the

potential opportunity and positive impacts that the fleet modernization efforts could have

on Washington State’s economy.

ANALYSIS:

The “Modernization of the North Pacific Fishing Fleet – An Economic Opportunity

Analysis” study concludes that over the next ten plus years significant economic

opportunities are possible depending on the ability of the fishing industry and policy

makers to maintain and enhance Washington State’s competitiveness in the fleet

modernization effort. Fishing industry stakeholders have indicated that advocacy,

financing and facility improvements are necessary for Washington State to remain

competitive.

Paul Sorensen of BST Associates presented “The Assessment of Boatyard/Shipyard

Options” to the Port Commission in the fall of 2015. In this report, Mr. Sorensen

identified the Port’s current travel lift pier as an impediment to attracting large fishing

fleet vessels to Port Angeles for repair and modernization. The Port’s current travel lift

pier cannot accommodate the weight and beam of most of the larger fishing vessels that

need modernization.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

Discuss the potential opportunity for the Port of Port Angeles to participate in the fleet

modernization efforts for the North Pacific Fleet.

You can see the full report on their agenda on April 4th: http://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/04042017-233

Editorial note: I say anything that will help local fishermen and their trade is a good thing.

For local meetings and local stories making headlines see page 2

PRESIDENT'S STATEMENT ON SYRIA

THE PRESIDENT:  My fellow Americans:  On Tuesday, Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad launched a horrible chemical weapons attack on innocent civilians.  Using a deadly nerve agent, Assad choked out the lives of helpless men, women, and children.  It was a slow and brutal death for so many.  Even beautiful babies were cruelly murdered in this very barbaric attack.  No child of God should ever suffer such horror.
Tonight, I ordered a targeted military strike on the airfield in Syria from where the chemical attack was launched.  It is in this vital national security interest of the United States to prevent and deter the spread and use of deadly chemical weapons.  There can be no dispute that Syria used banned chemical weapons, violated its obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention, and ignored the urging of the U.N. Security Council.
Years of previous attempts at changing Assad's behavior have all failed, and failed very dramatically.  As a result, the refugee crisis continues to deepen and the region continues to destabilize, threatening the United States and its allies.
Tonight, I call on all civilized nations to join us in seeking to end the slaughter and bloodshed in Syria, and also to end terrorism of all kinds and all types.  We ask for God's wisdom as we face the challenge of our very troubled world.  We pray for the lives of the wounded and for the souls of those who have passed.  And we hope that as long as America stands for justice, then peace and harmony will, in the end, prevail.
Goodnight.  And God bless America and the entire world.  Thank you.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/06/statement-president-trump-syria

Related stories
NY TIMES: Striking at Assad Carries Opportunities, and Risks, for Trump
WASHINGTON — In launching a military strike just 77 days into his administration, President Trump has the opportunity, but hardly a guarantee, to change the perception of disarray in his administration.
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/striking-at-assad-carries-opportunities-and-risks-for-trump/ar-BBzxw8M?li=BBnbcA1

Bloomberg: Putin's Syria Gambit at Risk as Trump Challenges With Airstrikes
(Bloomberg) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin risks losing hard-won gains in Syria after the U.S. upended the balance of forces by striking at his ally President Bashar al-Assad in response to an apparent chemical attack that killed scores of people.
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/putins-syria-gambit-at-risk-as-trump-challenges-with-airstrikes/ar-BBzw0G7?li=BBnbcA1

WP: Syrian President Assad condemns U.S. missile strike as ‘arrogant aggression’
BEIRUT — Syrian President Bashar al-Assad reacted with outrage on Friday to U.S. cruise missile strikes on a Syrian military air base, calling them an “unjust and arrogant aggression” that would only increase his government’s determination to “crush” militant groups in Syria, according to the state news agency.
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/syrian-president-assad-condemns-us-missile-strike-as-%E2%80%98arrogant-aggression%E2%80%99/ar-BBzvFZr

CONGRESSIONAL AND STATE HEADLINE NEWS

News from our Congressional delegation to Washington DC:
Kilmer, Renacci Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Fix America’s Election Watchdog
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Jim Renacci (R-OH) reintroduced a bipartisan bill to fix the commission charged with enforcing federal election laws. The Restoring Integrity to America’s Elections Act would reform the Federal Election Commission (FEC) so it can more effectively carry out its original mission to oversee campaign finance laws.
Representatives Mark Amodei (R-NV), Kathleen Rice (D-NY), Larry Bucshon (R-IN), Scott Peters (D-CA), Walter Jones (R-NC), Stephanie Murphy (D-FL), Lou Barletta (R-PA), Jared Polis (D-CO), Ken Buck (R-CO), and John Sarbanes (D-MD) are also original cosponsors of the bill.  
In recent years the Commission has routinely deadlocked when it comes to investigating significant cases involving the nation’s campaign finance laws. In 2006, the FEC commissioners deadlocked on just fewer than 3 percent of all major enforcement cases they reviewed. By 2016 that jumped to 30 percent.
“We need to bring people-power back to this Congress,” said Kilmer. “But the Commission designed to be the people’s advocate in our elections has seen more gridlock than Congress. Meaningful, substantial reforms at the Federal Election Commission need to happen so it can get back to weeding out campaign finance abuse and holding those who skirt the rules accountable. Making the Commission work will help us revitalize our democracy and put the focus back on citizens rather than special interests.”---press release issued 4. 6. 17
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-renacci-reintroduce-bipartisan-bill-to-fix-americas-election-watchdog-

Kilmer, Members Lead Bipartisan Letter to President Trump Emphasizing Support for the Federal Programs that Support Iconic Bodies of Water
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA), Dave Reichert (R-WA), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), David Joyce (R-OH), and Bobby Scott (D-VA) led a bipartisan letter urging President Trump not to eliminate investments in iconic bodies of water. The letter, signed by 31 other members, warned that the President should reconsider his budget proposal that would completely eliminate the Environmental Protection Agency’s Geographic Programs that provide cleanup funding for Puget Sound, the Great Lakes, Chesapeake Bay, and other major bodies of water.
The members wrote in the letter sent today: “Collectively, the EPA’s Geographic Program funds have been used by state, local, and tribal governments to implement thousands of on-the-ground projects to improve water quality, protect and restore native habitats, enhance fish and shellfish populations, and combat invasive species. Although every region has shown significant improvement as the result of these investments, there is still a great deal of work to do.”
“We know that you are strongly in favor of growing the economy, protecting clean water, and creating jobs. The federal funding provided through the Geographic Programs does just that,” the members added. ----press release issued 4. 4. 17
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-members-lead-bipartisan-letter-to-president-trump-emphasizing-support-for-the-federal-programs-that-support-iconic-bodies-of-water_



Senator Murray on Her Strong Opposition to Supreme Court Nominee Neil Gorsuch: Serious Concerns with Record on Women’s Health, Workers Rights, and Disability Rights
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) laid out her concerns with President Trump’s U.S. Supreme Court nominee on the Senate floor, and urged her colleagues to join her in voting no on advancing his nomination. Sen. Murray urged Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to abstain from using the nuclear option to permanently change Senate rules in order to force through a Supreme Court nominee without the traditional 60 votes. She also expressed deep concern with Judge Gorsuch’s record of not protecting women’s constitutionally protected health care rights, siding with corporations over workers, and ruling against children with disabilities.
“If you believe in transparency in our elections, and upholding the integrity of our democracy—or you believe we need a justice that will protect the rights of all Americans and stand with them and not with President Trump and millionaires and billionaires—the choice is clear,” said Senator Murray. “As I’ve urged my colleagues for weeks, with so much chaos in the Administration and so many questions surrounding this President’s commitment to the rule of law— slow down. Stop playing political games.  Respect the families we represent, respect the separation of powers, and stop trying to jam this nominee through—and whatever you do, do not blow up the Senate rules for Supreme Court nominees.---press release issued 4. 5. 17
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=B8388554-5B55-4354-BC92-729512667F67

Following New Reports of Drug-Resistant Outbreak, Sen. Murray Calls on Olympus to Verify Medical Scopes are Safe for Use in U.S.
(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Patty Murray, top Democrat on the Senate health committee, is calling on the President and CFO of Olympus Corporation to provide immediate answers following new reports that its closed-channel duodenoscopes have been linked to a new outbreak of antibiotic-resistant infections. The duodenoscopes at issue had reportedly been rebuilt as part of a recall agreement between Olympus and FDA following an investigation launched by Senator Murray in 2015, which linked these devices to 25 different outbreaks, including one at Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle, Washington.
The latest reported outbreak linked to these devices affected five patients, one of whom died, at a hospital outside the U.S.
“This tragic incident is particularly alarming because your company recalled and reportedly fixed the device in question after an investigation by my staff revealed a dangerous flaw in the design of Olympus duodenoscopes,” wrote Senator Murray. “I write to you today to request information in order to assess whether repaired Olympus closed-channel duodenoscopes are safe, and to understand whether the federal oversight of medical device safety in the United States is operating as it should.”---press release issued 4. 4. 17
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=D4519745-83E9-4FC5-9BEA-1B996B13F464


As Republicans Renew Talks on Health Care Behind Closed Doors, Sen. Murray and other Democrats Urge Trump Administration to Reveal New Details of Plan Meant to Appeal to the House Freedom Caucus
(Washington, D.C.) – Sen. Murray, ranking member of the Senate health committee, joined 20 other U.S. Senators to call on the Trump Administration to release details of the health care plan presented to the House Freedom Caucus. In a bid to win the far right group’s support, reports indicate that the Administration identified specific Affordable Care Act (ACA) rules that the Administration would gut in exchange for the Freedom Caucus’ support. With President Trump and Speaker Paul Ryan determined to push on with their disastrous health care scheme, the release of the Administration’s planned actions is vital.
The Senators wrote, “Rather than continuing down this path, we request that you heed Democrats’ calls to stop working to repeal the ACA and stop taking actions that would undermine our health care system.  In order to provide much needed oversight and transparency regarding the Administration’s path forward on the ACA, please provide the document that was presented to Congressional Republicans on March 23, 2017, which outlined ACA regulations the Administration could repeal on its own.  We hope you will set aside your plans to unravel these regulations so that we can move forward to improve our health care system, but until you make the commitment, we will continue our efforts to hold you accountable.”----press release issued 4. 4. 17
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=DE03E317-57AD-497C-A50F-DBAB99964A8A


For more Congressional and state headline news see page 2

NATIONAL WEEKLY

From the WHITE HOUSE:
Remarks by President Trump at 2017 North America's Building Trades Unions National Legislative Conference
" For decades now, we’ve watched as our factories have shuttered -- almost 70,000 factories -- our jobs have been stolen, and blue collar wages have declined.  We’ve seen the economic pain inflicted on our fellow Americans in Pittsburgh and Detroit and Baltimore.  We didn’t just offshore our jobs, we offshored a big, big part of the American Dream." ---President Trump
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/04/remarks-president-trump-2017-north-americas-building-trades-unions

Remarks by President Trump and Vice President Pence at CEO Town Hall on Unleashing American Business
THE VICE PRESIDENT:  It's a great privilege to be able to welcome you to the White House.  Thank you so much.  I want to thank everyone involved in the Partnership for New York City -- Michael Corbat, Stephen Schwarzman.  It's an honor to have the leaders that are gathered in the room here with us today.  I know the President is on his way over, and it's my great privilege this morning to share a few thoughts, in the midst of this important conversation on the topics that you're covering before I introduce my friend and the 45th President of the United States.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/04/remarks-president-trump-and-vice-president-pence-ceo-town-hall

Statement from President Donald J. Trump
Today’s chemical attack in Syria against innocent people, including women and children, is reprehensible and cannot be ignored by the civilized world. These heinous actions by the Bashar al-Assad regime are a consequence of the past administration’s weakness and irresolution. President Obama said in 2012 that he would establish a “red line” against the use of chemical weapons and then did nothing. The United States stands with our allies across the globe to condemn this intolerable attack.---press release issued 4. 4. 17
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/04/statement-president-donald-j-trump

President Donald J. Trump Announces Intent to Nominate Heath P. Tarbert to the Department of the Treasury
If confirmed, Heath P. Tarbert of Maryland will serve as Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, International Markets and Development. Mr. Tarbert is a leading attorney in the financial services field with over 15 years of experience.  Mr. Tarbert is a partner in the global law firm Allen & Overy LLP.  He previously served in all three branches of the Federal Government, including as Special Counsel to the Senate Banking Committee, as Associate Counsel to President George W. Bush, and as law clerk to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.  Mr. Tarbert’s policy work includes serving as Senior Fellow at the Harvard Law School Program on International Financial Systems.  He is a member of the American Law Institute and the Bretton Woods Committee.  Mr. Tarbert is also a Certified Public Accountant and a Chartered Financial Analyst charterholder.  He earned his BS from Mount St. Mary’s University, his JD and SJD from the University of Pennsylvania, and his DPhil from Oxford University where he was a Thouron Scholar.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/04/president-donald-j-trump-announces-intent-nominate-heath-p-tarbert

Remarks by President Trump and President Al-Sisi of Egypt Before Bilateral Meeting
PRESIDENT TRUMP:  It's great to be with the President of Egypt.  And I will tell you, President al-Sisi has been somebody that's been very close to me from the first time I met him.  I met during the campaign, and at that point there were two of us, and we both met.  And hopefully you like me a lot more.  But it was very long.  It was supposed to be just a quick brief meeting, and we were with each other for a long period of time.  We agreed on so many things.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/03/remarks-president-trump-and-president-al-sisi-egypt-bilateral-meeting

For more national headline news see page 2



NEWS NOTEBOOK:

City of Port Angeles press release issued 4. 4. 17
Traffic Revisions on Highway 101
Minor traffic revisions, to include intermittent lane closures, will be in effect on Highway 101 between Oak Street and Tumwater Truck Route on Wednesday and Thursday, April 5 & 6, from 8 AM until approximately 4 PM.  City crews will be trimming trees and performing vegetation control in the area.  The public is encouraged to slow down for their safety and that of the workers.
Please drive safely and watch for temporary traffic control signs and flaggers.  Our goal is to complete the project safely with minimal inconvenience to the public.  The City of Port Angeles appreciates your understanding and patience.  It is always possible that repairs may take longer due to unforeseen circumstances, or that the work could be postponed due to weather conditions.

WEEKLY WORLD NEWS AND EVENTS

Secretary-General Condemns Bombing in Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:
The Secretary-General condemns today’s bombing in the Saint Petersburg Metro.  He extends his deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government and the people of the Russian Federation.  Those responsible for this appalling act must be held accountable. ---press release April 3, 2017
http://www.un.org/press/en/2017/sgsm18481.doc.htm

Related stories
UN Security Council Press Statement on Terrorist Attack in St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the barbaric and cowardly terrorist attack which took place in St. Petersburg, Russian Federation, on 3 April 2017 and during which at least 10 people were killed and dozens injured.
The members of the Security Council expressed their deep sympathy and condolences to the victims of this heinous act of terrorism and to their families, and to the people and to the Government of the Russian Federation. They wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/7740

Statement on the Explosion in the St. Petersburg Metro
The images of lives lost and people injured in St. Petersburg are heartbreaking. We extend our condolences to the loved ones of those killed and injured, and to the people of Russia. You can be sure the United States will stand with Russia on defeating these extremists who continue to senselessly harm innocent people.
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/7739

The United States Condemns the Attack in St. Petersburg, Russia
The United States condemns today’s reprehensible attack on passengers of the St. Petersburg metro system. We extend our deepest condolences to the loved ones of those who were killed, and our thoughts and prayers are with those injured in the attack and with the Russian people.
https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2017/04/269421.htm

Officials: St. Petersburg subway blast was suicide attack
ST. PETERSBURG, Russia (AP) — A 22-year-old suicide bomber born in the former Soviet republic of Kyrgyzstan was behind a blast on the St. Petersburg subway that killed 14 people, Russian investigators said Tuesday.
http://bigstory.ap.org/article/13dd2db38ee64e92907d8585867aabbe/st-petersburg-subway-bomber-identified-kyrgyz-man

REU: Russian metro bomb suspect a Muslim born in central Asia: investigators
OSH, Kyrgyzstan/ST. PETERSBURG, Russia, April 4 (Reuters) - A Russian suicide bomber originally from mainly Muslim Kyrgyzstan detonated the explosives in a St Petersburg train carriage that killed 14 people and wounded 50, authorities said on Tuesday.
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/russian-metro-bomb-suspect-a-muslim-born-in-central-asia-investigators/ar-BBzgNmo

USA TODAY: Russian subway bombing reveals terror vulnerability
The St. Petersburg subway bombing demonstrated the terror risks facing subway stations because of their open access and large crowds, but experts said Monday that Russian transportation security has been less stringent than in the U.S.
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/russian-subway-bombing-reveals-terror-vulnerability/ar-BBzhVTM


More world news and events see page 2

MONDAY'S BUSINESS AND FINANCE REPORT

USDA: California Community Hosts Second Annual MyPlate-Inspired Fun Run
More than 500 students were asked that question during a morning greeting at Castle Rock Elementary, in the heart of the Central Valley of California. The students enthusiastically raised their hands.  The next question was “how many of you like to run and exercise?”  Again, over 500 students emphatically raised their hands.  This particular exercise inspired our MyPlate Color Run.
https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2017/03/30/california-community-hosts-second-annual-myplate-inspired-fun-run

USDA Offers Renewal Options for Expiring Conservation Stewardship Program Contracts
WASHINGTON, March 30, 2017 – Acting Deputy Agriculture Secretary Michael Young today announced that a contract renewal sign-up is underway for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), USDA’s largest working lands conservation program with more than 80 million acres enrolled.  USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) made several updates to the popular program last fall.  These changes help producers better evaluate conservation options that benefit their operations while improving the health and productivity of private and Tribal working lands.
https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2017/03/30/usda-offers-renewal-options-expiring-conservation-stewardship

US DEPT. OF LABOR: Why Do You Ask?
On any given day, about 80 percent of the population age 15 and up watch television, and they watch for an average of 3 hours 29 minutes.* That’s an interesting piece of trivia, you may be thinking, but why does the Bureau of Labor Statistics need to know that? Without context, TV watching may seem like an odd area of focus – but this is just one of many statistics the agency collects as part of the American Time Use Survey. And Americans across the country use that information every day to get their jobs done.
The statistics above, for example, may be helpful to those promoting healthy behaviors and products, such as those who work in the health and fitness industries. The data can also be useful to television producers in determining programming.
Unlike other BLS surveys that track employment, wages and prices, the American Time Use Survey tracks a less conventional, but equally important, economic resource that we never have enough of: time. The survey compiles data on how much time Americans spend doing paid work, unpaid household work (such as taking care of children or doing household chores) and all the other activities that compose a typical day.
https://blog.dol.gov/2017/03/31/why-do-you-ask

PRESIDENT TRUMP NULLIFIES DRUG TESTING RULE
Administration looks to ensure appropriate drug testing requirements are in place for persons seeking unemployment benefits
WASHINGTON – Today, President Donald J. Trump signed legislation to nullify a U.S. Department of Labor rule that narrowly limited the circumstances under which drug testing may be carried out by states in administering their unemployment insurance systems.
The president’s action halts a 2016 rule drawn up by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, based on a 2012 law. The rule contradicted clear congressional intent – it narrowly limited the circumstances under which drug testing may be carried out and constrained a state’s ability to conduct a drug testing program under the act.---press release issued March 31, 2017
https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/eta/eta20170331

Job Corps: A Road Best Taken for Drop-out
While in high school, Josiah Hernandez came to a difficult crossroads in his young life. Twenty credits short of graduation and struggling with academic and self discipline, he dropped out. Just a few months later, in search of direction, he found the U.S. Department of Labor’s Job Corps program.---Labor dept blog
https://blog.dol.gov/2017/03/28/job-corps-road-best-taken-drop-out

For more business and finance news headlines see page 2

WASH AG: FERGUSON FILES $2.1M CAMPAIGN FINANCE LAWSUIT AGAINST TIM EYMAN

Mar 31 2017--Press release issued from the AG
Alleges personal use of campaign funds, intentional concealment
OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson today filed a campaign finance lawsuit against Tim Eyman, alleging improper personal use of $308,000 in contributions made to political committees, concealment of contributions totaling $490,185 and misleading reporting. The lawsuit also accuses for-profit signature gathering firm Citizen Solutions of participating in a scheme to conceal campaign money the company funneled to Eyman.
If successful, Eyman and his for-profit company, Tim Eyman Watchdog for Taxpayers, could face $1.8 million in penalties, plus $308,000 in reimbursement.
Citizen Solutions and one of its principals, William Agazarm, could face penalties up to $924,555.
Ferguson will also ask the court to bar Eyman from participating in or directing financial transactions for any political committees going forward. A 2002 agreement permanently barred Eyman from serving as treasurer for political committees. Yet, the lawsuit alleges, Eyman still managed to weave an elaborate web of financial transactions to hide campaign funds, enriching himself while keeping his contributors and the public at large in the dark.
This scheme duped contributors who thought they were donating to one initiative, but instead were supporting Eyman’s personal expenses and a completely different initiative.
“Taking kickbacks from contractors, using campaign funds for personal expenses, redirecting donations made for one initiative to a different initiative — it’s hard to imagine what more Mr. Eyman could have done to show his contempt for our campaign finance disclosure laws,” Ferguson said.
The complaint filed today in Thurston County Superior Court stems from a state Public Disclosure Commission investigation. In August 2012, the PDC received a complaint about Eyman and two of his political committees: Voters Want More Choices and Protect Your Right to Vote on Initiatives.
In September 2015, PDC staff presented the results of their investigation to the Commission, which then referred the case to the Attorney General’s Office.
On Nov. 13, 2015, the Attorney General’s Office issued civil orders to Eyman, his for-profit company, two of his political committees and Citizen Solutions.
The orders sought business and financial information, including banking and tax records, regarding Eyman initiative campaigns in Washington. While the respondents produced a smattering of records, some of which were heavily censored, they did not fully respond to the subpoenas.
In June 2016, a judge ordered Eyman to comply with the subpoenas in the Attorney General’s investigation. Even then, the defendants failed to meet the court-ordered deadline, and it took a contempt motion to obtain the records.
In September 2016, the courts ordered Eyman, his political committees and Citizen Solutions to pay the Attorney General’s Office a total of $33,000 for the costs of enforcing subpoenas in the investigation.
Read more: http://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ferguson-files-21m-campaign-finance-lawsuit-against-tim-eyman


(For local meetings and news headlines see page 2)

WA COMMERCE: State invests $123K to help train 90 certified marine welders in Port Angeles over five years

Assistance, partnership needed to meet demand for skilled aluminum welders as Armstrong Marine expands to fulfill $38 million contract to build Navy maintenance barges in peninsula community
The Washington State Department of Commerce has awarded a $123,000 Governor’s Work Start grant to develop customized curriculum and train certified aluminum welders to support business expansion and new jobs at Armstrong Marine Inc. (AMI) in Port Angeles. AMI recently won a $38 million government contract to build state-of-the-art maintenance barges for the U.S. Navy.
Partners in the Port Angeles project, Impact Washington and Peninsula College, will work together with AMI to develop an expedited training.  The company plans to double its workforce in the Port Angeles area, hiring 60 new workers over the next 24 months. In addition to fulfilling AMI’s need to train qualified marine welders, the Work Start program will become regular curriculum at Peninsula College to support future growth in the state’s $37.6 billion maritime industry sector.
Port Angeles and Sequim High Schools also may be involved in supporting a Running Start pathway to skilled, good-paying jobs in the marine trades on the rural Olympic Peninsula.
“Boat and ship building, repair and maintenance is a vital subsector of Washington’s maritime industry, and a key economic driver for Clallam County,” said Gov. Jay Inslee. “This project not only supports Armstrong Marine’s immediate expansion plans, but also supports our goals to increase export opportunities and continue to build our maritime, military and defense sectors.”
http://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/state-invests-123k-help-train-90-certified-marine-welders-port-angeles-five-years/

From our congressional delegation to Washington DC

Kilmer, Russell Reintroduce Bill to Open Defense Jobs to Military Retirees
Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Steve Russell (R-OK) reintroduced a bill to make sure military retirees have fair access to jobs with the Department of Defense. Under current law, servicemembers who retire have to wait 180 before even applying for civilian jobs at military facilities like the Pentagon.
From 2001 until last year, the President had issued a waiver to lift the hiring rule. But the waiver went away at the end of 2016, causing individuals like Tom Bartz Jr. who the Kitsap Sun reported now is dealing with a delayed start date at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-russell-reintroduce-bill-to-open-defense-jobs-to-military-retirees-

Lawmakers Push for Open Data in Government
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA-06), Blake Farenthold (R-TX-27) and Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Ben Sasse (R-NE) jointly reintroduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to open up government data to improve services and support new discoveries in the private sector.
The Open, Public, Electronic and Necessary (OPEN) Government Data Act requires that public data be accessible at Data.gov so individuals, organizations and other government offices can utilize it. Last week, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee reviewed and discussed the bill.
“Our goal is to make data more open to the public and more efficiently used by government agencies,” said Kilmer. “Making open data standard practice will create a more responsive government and help everyday Americans. It saves taxpayer money and gives innovators new tools to help fuel breakthroughs. I’m proud to be a part of this effort to empower positive change for our government, citizens, and businesses.”
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/lawmakers-push-for-open-data-in-government

Kilmer Presses Navy for Answers on Impacts of Training Missions on Olympic Peninsula
TACOMA, WA – Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-0) pressed the Navy for answers on the impacts of training missions on the Olympic Peninsula. In a letter to Sean Stackley, Acting Secretary of the Navy, Kilmer asked for further clarification on recent activity near Olympic National Park and surrounding communities.
In a series of questions to the Navy, Kilmer asked how public comments were incorporated into the environmental review for projects like Growler flights and electronic range testing. He also questioned whether the Navy has worked with other agencies to most effectively measure how much jet noise can be heard on the Olympic Peninsula.
Kilmer wrote in the letter: “Given your agency’s mission, I request assistance in further understanding your recent and ongoing efforts impacting Washington’s Sixth Congressional District. Like many of my neighbors, I want my kids, and their kids to enjoy the pristine environment that I have been privileged to experience.”
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-presses-navy-for-answers-on-impacts-of-training-missions-on-olympic-peninsula-

Editorial note: How about the fact that the Navy will bring much needed commerce to the local area Kilmer, what happened to ensuring jobs for the Olympic Peninsula Congressman Kilmer?

Reps. Kilmer and Kustoff Introduce Bill to Protect Religious Institutions
WASHINGTON, D.C., March 27, 2017 – Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) and Congressman Derek Kilmer (D-WA) today introduced the Combating Anti-Semitism Act of 2017. This bipartisan legislation, also co-sponsored by Congressman Ted Poe (R-TN), Congressman Ted Deutch (D-FL), Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Congressman Joseph P. Kennedy, III (D-MA), would increase the federal penalty for bomb threats and other credible threats of violence against community religious centers and ensure these acts can be prosecuted as a hate crime.
“The rise in threats at religious community centers is deeply disturbing and makes it clear that existing federal laws do not suitably deter these acts of hate,” said Kustoff. “Religious tolerance is the bedrock on which our great nation was founded. We must defend the individual liberties of our neighbors of all faiths and protect places of worship, and I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation that addresses the issue head on.”
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-kilmer-and-kustoff-introduce-bill-to-protect-religious-institutions

For more news on our congressional delegation to Washington DC, and State news headlines see page 2

                   

ADVOCACY NOTEBOOK, A WEEKLY LOOK AT CAUSES THAT MATTER

UN NEWS CENTER: Children in countries facing famine threatened by lack of water, sanitation – UN agency
29 March 2017 – In African and Middle Eastern countries facing famine, unsafe water is as dangerous for severely malnourished children as lack of food, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) today warned, noting that nearly 27 million people are at risk in northeast Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan and Yemen.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56453#.WN0gXfkrIps

Medicines should help, not harm, says UN health agency launching global patient safety 'challenge'
29 March 2017 – Medicines should help, not harm, says UN health agency launching new global patient safety 'challenge'
Underlining that medicines should fulfil their real purpose – help people, not harm them – the United Nations health agency today launched a world-wide 'Challenge' that that seeks to reduce severe, avoidable medication-associated damage across the globe by half over the next five years.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56457#.WN0hAPkrIps

WE THE PEOPLE
Stop the sales of all weapons and arms to Saudi Arabia, until they stop enslaving women and end The Guardianship Laws.
Saudi Arabia is looking to continue its war in Yemen and the current administration plans to begin selling arms to them.
We want Congress or the President to use the only leverage we have and stop all sales of Weapons and Arms to Saudi Arabia until they end the Guardianship laws.
Guardianship Laws in Saudi Arabia require women to get a mans permission to Work, Go to School, Leave the house, Travel outside of the country, or leave the country in general. Women are forcibly bound and every major decision in their lives is taken away from them and given to a Male Guardian in their life who chooses what she can or can not do.
The laws strip the basic human right of Autonomy and Saudi Arabia has promised twice to end them before and still have not. We must act now while we have leverage. ---petition link
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/stop-sales-all-weapons-and-arms-saudi-arabia-until-they-stop-enslaving-women-and-end-guardianship-laws

United States: 12 Deaf Plaintiffs Sue Banner Health For Lack Of ASL Interpreters And Lack Of Auxiliary Communication Aids---Mondag
http://www.mondaq.com/article.asp?articleid=580252&email_access=on&chk=2055056&q=1474804

For more Advocacy news headlines see page 2

WEEKLY LOOK AT NATIONAL NEWS & EVENTS

WH: Remarks by President Trump at Signing of Executive Order to Create Energy Independence
"That is what this is all about:  bringing back our jobs, bringing back our dreams -- and making America wealthy again." ----President Trump
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/03/28/remarks-president-trump-signing-executive-order-create-energy

Related story: Background Briefing on the President's Energy Independence Executive Order
 The President will sign it.  This policy is in keeping with President Trump's desire to make the United States energy independent.  He believes that we can serve the twin goals of protecting the environment and providing clean air and clean water, getting the EPA back to its core mission, while at the same time, again, moving forward on energy production in the United States.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/03/27/background-briefing-presidents-energy-independence-executive-order

Remarks by the President on Signing House Joint Resolutions 37, 44, 57, and 58 under the Congressional Review Act
THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, everybody, for being here.  I want to welcome many state and local leaders; and we've had them all over the White House today, and it’s a great honor -- including Governor Eric Greitens of Missouri; Governor Gary Herbert of Utah; Lieutenant Governor Jenean Hampton of Kentucky -- who are all at the White House and who are all doing something very, very important today.
I’m signing four bills under the Congressional Review Act.  Before this administration only one time in our history had a President signed a bill that used the CRA to cancel a federal regulation.  So we're doing a lot of them, and they deserve to be done.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/03/27/remarks-president-signing-house-joint-resolutions-37-44-57-and-58-under

First Lady Melania Trump to Honor International Women of Courage
First Lady Melania Trump and the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas A. Shannon will present the 2017 Secretary of State's International Women of Courage (IWOC) Award today at the Department of State.  The ceremony will begin at 11:00 a.m.
International Women of Courage has honored more than 100 courageous women from over 60 countries around the world. This year's ceremony is meant to showcase and support a group of women who put their personal safety and sometimes lives at risk in order to help improve their communities.  The award, now in its 11th year, honors those who have demonstrated exceptional courage, strength, and leadership in acting to advance the lives of others across the globe.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/03/29/first-lady-melania-trump-honor-international-women-courage

Remarks by President Trump and Vice President Pence in Roundtable with Women Small Business Owners
" Empowering and promoting women in business is an absolute priority in the Trump administration because I know how crucial women are as job creators, role models, and leaders all throughout our communities." ---President Trump
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/03/27/remarks-president-trump-and-vice-president-pence-roundtable-women-small


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WEEKLY LOOK AT WORLD NEWS & EVENTS

US MISSION TO THE UN:    U.S. Statement on a Resolution on the “Situation of and Assistance to Palestinian Women” at the 2017 Commission on the Status of Women

The United States strongly objects to this biased and counterproductive resolution as well as this body’s insistence on including political elements and one-sided condemnations. This political posturing detracts from the real challenges at hand – problems we should all commit to solving.

The United States, along with many of our international partners, remains committed to practical and effective support of the Palestinian people, including Palestinian women.

https://usun.state.gov/remarks/7727



U.S. Statement on a Resolution on Preventing and Eliminating Sexual Harassment in the Workplace at the 2017 Commission on the Status of Women

The United States thanks Israel for taking the initiative to bring about the first CSW resolution devoted to addressing sexual harassment in the workplace. We are pleased to co-sponsor this resolution. It is particularly fitting that it is adopted during a CSW session on women’s economic empowerment in the context of employment. The United States places importance on addressing sexual harassment at work. In her statement to the CSW last week, Ambassador Haley affirmed the United States’ commitment to advancing women’s human rights and economic empowerment. This resolution commendably raises awareness about the issue and contains action-oriented solutions to address it.

https://usun.state.gov/remarks/7726


Matthew Dolbow, Counselor for Economic and Social Affairs, U.S. Mission to the United Nations

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States thanks our facilitator Egypt, all participating delegations, civil society partners, and the untiring staff of UN Women on their diligent efforts toward developing a substantive, action-oriented set of Agreed Conclusions that were able to be adopted by consensus.

https://usun.state.gov/remarks/7724


Remarks at a Commemorative Meeting of the UN General Assembly to Mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade

Thank you very much, Mr. President. Today, we remember the horrors of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. We remember the millions of Africans torn from their families; the countless people who suffered and died from disease, starvation, and the most inhumane treatment imaginable as they were put on ships and sold into bondage.

https://usun.state.gov/remarks/7723



UN: Security Council Sanctions Committee Concerning South Sudan Meets Special Representatives on Children, Sexual Violence in Conflict
During its informal consultations on 21 March 2017, the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 2206 (2015) concerning South Sudan was briefed by Leila Zerrougui, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, and Zainab Hawa Bangura, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict.

 http://www.un.org/press/en/2017/sc12766.doc.htm

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MONDAY'S BUSINESS AND FINANCE REPORT

US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE:
State of American Business: Moving Technology Ahead
It wasn’t too long ago that technology was considered its own business sector. But now – from transportation and energy to finance and medicine – technology is deeply integrated across sectors and across our economy. Businesses rely on technology to interact with their customers, improve their services, and make their operations more globally competitive. Technology is transforming all industries, which helps grow our economy.
By transforming these industries, technology is also creating the jobs of the future. New jobs are being created across our economy; they can be seen anywhere from transportation logistics to programmers and radiologists. In 2016 there were 6 million jobs in the U.S. technology industry with expected growth of 4.1% this year.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/state-american-business-moving-technology-ahead

Optimism Soars for Midsize Businesses
Midsize businesses are a critical component of our economy, providing nearly 40 million jobs and 40% of America’s GDP. They are yesterday’s small businesses and tomorrow’s Fortune 500 success stories. To get a better sense of what Washington can do to help them grow, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce partnered with RSM—a leading tax and accounting company—to produce the quarterly Middle Market Business Index.
According to the first quarter study released last week, leaders of America’s midsize companies reported record-high levels of optimism. They like much of what they’ve heard from our government leaders, especially regarding tax reform, fixing our health care system, and reducing federal regulations. They see these as enormous opportunities to jolt our economy and grow their businesses. Yet that optimism comes with a caveat: They’re waiting to make investments until Washington proves that it can actually deliver on its promises.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/optimism-soars-midsize-businesses

The EU At 60: The Promise Of The Project Endures
This weekend, the European Union celebrates the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome, which bound Germany, France, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg together into the European Economic Community.
The EU stands as a political achievement that has brought peace, prosperity, and global influence to the bloc. By integrating into a single market of over 500 million consumers, the EU has laid the groundwork for workers, consumers, and companies to succeed in a fast-changing global economy.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/the-eu-60-the-promise-the-project-endures

Keystone XL Decision Signals “New Era for American Energy Policy”
Today, President Trump announced that his Administration granted the cross border permit needed for the Keystone XL pipeline.
This decision signals that the President is serious about building needed infrastructure to help put Americans back to work and improve North American energy and economic security. After nine years of politicized processes and decision making on pipeline infrastructure by the Obama Administration, this is a welcome move forward for our entire nation. (Press release issued 3. 24. 17
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/keystone-xl-decision-signals-new-era-american-energy-policy

Thanks to Shale Gas, Electricity Prices Moderate Across the Nation
Each year, the Energy Institute issues an update of our annual retail electricity price map, based upon the year-end electricity price data released by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.  The prices shown on our map best reflect what business, industry, and consumers must pay for a given unit – or kilowatt hour (kWh) – of electricity.  This year’s map, with the most complete data for calendar year 2016, appears above.
https://www.uschamber.com/above-the-fold/thanks-shale-gas-electricity-prices-moderate-across-the-nation


For more business and finance news see page 2

WEEKLY LOOK AT LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS

School Board Passes Action Items Impacting Facilities

Posted on 03/24/2017 (press release)
Port Angeles, Wash. – Port Angeles School District Board of Directors made several decisions relating to facilities at its Thursday, March 23 meeting held at Lincoln High School.
Directors approved the Monroe Elementary School Demolition Project Design and Management proposal. Directors also voted to move funds from its Debt Service Fund to its Capital Projects Fund.
Monroe Demolition Project Design and Management Proposal
Directors approved the Monroe Elementary School Demolition Project Design and Management proposal presented by Nolan Duce, director of maintenance and facilities, and submitted by PBS Engineering and Environmental, Inc. (PBS).  This project covers the investigation, design, permitting, bid, construction, and closeout services.
Duce estimated the investigation stage will begin immediately.
The PBS project estimate is $118,560.20 and includes investigation period services ($35,852.20; design period services ($41,920); and construction period services ($40,788).
The proposal outlines PBS’s proposed services and fees to demolish the majority of the existing structures on the site of the former Monroe Elementary School. Services included are: building and site surveys for the presence of regulated/hazardous materials and underground fuel storage tank; abatement, demolition and site stabilization design document development; permitting; bid specification and drawings; bid period assistance; construction period services, including abatement monitoring, site inspection, closure assistance, and project closeout. The District intends to retain the portable building, shed, playground, water, power, septic and asphalt paving associated with the portable, as well as all significant trees not impacted by the demolition.
Monroe Elementary was closed in June of 2004.
“The building is 41,760 square feet,” Duce said, “and originally built in 1949. Common building materials used back then were asbestos and lead based paint. There is also an underground fuel tank for the boiler. The building has become a safety issue.”
read more here: http://www.portangelesschools.org/cms/One.aspx?portalId=142102&pageId=10197458

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WEEKLY LOOK AT STATE NEWS, AND EVENTS THAT MATTERS TO US

News from our Congressional delegation to Washington DC

New Icebreaker on the Way as Cantwell Probes Coast Guard Budget
Coast Guard Commandant: We hope to start cutting steel in the next year
WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, in a hearing before the Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard Senate Subcommittee U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) pressed Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Paul Zukunft on the status of icebreaker funding in the Navy budget. The Admiral revealed that a new icebreaker is included in the upcoming Coast Guard budget and that a contract to begin immediate construction will be awarded the next year.
Cantwell has been a leader in calling for the recapitalization of our nation’s aging icebreaker fleet. The Senator has called for the Navy to fund the $1 billion dollar vessel, $150 of which will be in the Administration’s Budget Request, according to the Commandant.
Earlier this month, the White House proposed drastic cuts to the Coast Guard’s budget, prompting fears that the polar icebreaker program may be impacted. Admiral Zukunft’s statement today removes doubt that the U.S. will soon commission its first heavy duty icebreaker in four decades. (Press release issued 3. 22. 17)
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/new-icebreaker-on-the-way-as-cantwell-probes-coast-guard-budget

Cantwell Continues Call for Greater Cybersecurity for Grid, Critical Infrastructure
Experts: Cyberattacks are not just theoretical, happening in United States
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, during a U.S. Senate Commerce Committee hearing on cybersecurity, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) continued her call for urgent action to defend American energy infrastructure against potential cyberattacks.
Cantwell questioned Eric Rosenbach, the former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Global Security, about the possibility of a cyberattack similar to recent attacks in Kiev, Ukraine happening in the United States.
In 2015, the Russians reportedly hacked into three Ukrainian distribution utilities, knocking power out to more than 225,000 customers for several hours. Two months ago, a utility in northern Kiev reported that their grid was brought down as a result of a cyberattack that was very similar to the alleged Russian attack in 2015.
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-continues-call-for-greater-cybersecurity-for-grid-critical-infrastructure

Cantwell, Murray: Call for Reversal of Proposed EPA Cuts That Would Devastate Americans’ Clean Air and Water
Senators: Trump’s pledge for clean air and water is “meaningless” when followed by proposal for drastic cuts that would undercut EPA’s core mission
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) joined a group of 37 Senators in opposing President Trump’s proposal to inflict a more than 30 percent cut to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) budget.
Expressing “extreme concern” over the cuts, the Senators wrote to leaders of the Senate Appropriations Committee, “During the President’s February 28, 2017 address to Congress, he pledged to ‘promote clean air and water.’ Such a pledge is meaningless when the President follows it by proposing a 31 percent cut to the EPA’s budget and a 20 percent reduction in its staff. If enacted, this funding cut would effectively eliminate the EPA’s ability to execute its core mission to protect public health and ensure citizens have clean air, clean water, and are protected from hazardous waste and contaminants.”
The Senators highlighted many areas of concern where the proposed cuts would significantly harm communities across America and in Washington state—from reducing clean air and clean water grants and cutting enforcement against polluters, to cutting funding for Superfund sites by 30 percent, to entirely eliminating efforts to combat climate change and the cleanup of major regional bodies of water, including Puget Sound. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt has insisted that states should be the primary protectors of the environment. However, this proposed budget would drastically cut grants that are crucial for states to protect their clean water and clean air, monitor health impacts of pollution, and reclaim toxic-contaminated sites throughout the country.
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-call-for-reversal-of-proposed-epa-cuts-that-would-devastate-americans-clean-air-and-water-

Bipartisan, Bicameral Group Introduces Bill to Protect Communities from Landslides
Legislation Will Improve Science and Coordination Needed to Help Communities Prepare for and Respond to Natural Hazards
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Representative Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.-01), Chairman Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Sens. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) introduced bipartisan legislation to help local communities prepare for and respond to landslides and other natural hazards.
The legislation, titled the National Landslide Preparedness Act, will help protect communities and property, save lives and improve emergency preparedness and planning by targeting key gaps in current science and mapping critical to understanding landslide hazards and risks.
According to the USGS and National Research Council, landslide hazards claim 25-50 lives each year and cause between $1.6 and $3.2 billion in damages in the United States. Globally, landslides cause tens of billions of dollars in damages and thousands of deaths and injuries each year.
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/bipartisan-bicameral-group-introduces-bill-to-protect-communities-from-landslides_

Cantwell: Investing In Infrastructure Is Key To Maintaining And Growing Our Economy
Cantwell Slams Trump’s Budget Proposal In New Letter, Highlights Congress’ Failure to Adequately Fund Maintenance Needs of the National Park Service
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) blasted President Trump’s budget proposal during a committee hearing on public lands infrastructure.
“Investing in infrastructure is key to maintaining and growing our economy. I thought President Trump, Republicans and Democrats all agree on that. But we need a budget proposal that can help us do that,” Sen. Cantwell said. “It is ironic that we are gathered to discuss infrastructure funding after having just received a budget that essentially abandons that entire concept.”
Referring to the Secure Rural Schools and PILT programs, Sen. Cantwell said, “We cannot claim to be saving money for an infrastructure package by taking away from the infrastructure funding of states. Whether it’s counties that are working to maintain or improve their schools or doing roadwork in rural communities, we need to work together to resolve these problems.”
Sen. Cantwell made the case that investing in outdoor and recreation infrastructure is one of the most effective ways to grow the economy. Outdoor recreationists made more than 938 million visits to federal lands, spending $51 billion and supporting 880,000 jobs—not including visits to private or state lands. The outdoor recreation economy spurs $646 billion in spending each year in the United States, yielding $40 billion in federal taxes and $40 billion state and local taxes.
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-investing-in-infrastructure-is-key-to-maintaining-and-growing-our-economy-

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