US COMMERCE DEPT: Trade with China Continues Trend While Comprehensive Economic Dialogue Hopes to Balance Deficits

Press release issued June 2nd: 
The trade deficit in goods with China ballooned by 13.8 percent year-over-year while the overall trade deficit increased by 5 percent since March as imports increased slightly and exports declined following the release of the April 2017 International Trade in Goods and Services monthly data by the Department of Commerce.
“While the overall trade deficit continues to grow, it is too soon for the numbers to reflect the recent deal with China and other actions of this Administration is taking to level the balance of trade,” said Secretary Ross. “We look forward to the July 16 deadline which will open up the Chinese market to American beef, liquefied natural gas and other products.”
The U.S. goods and services deficit with China increased 5.4 percent from the fourth quarter of 2016 to the first quarter of 2017 growing from $77.714 billion to $81.901 billion.
The trade deficit widened month-to-month with China from 24.6 billion in March to 27.6 billion in April.
While the trade deficit with China grew, there was improvement in other areas.  April exports to South Korea were the highest ever on record, while exports to Japan were the largest since August of 2014.
Year-to-date, the goods and services deficit increased $9.4 billion, or 7.5 percent, from the same period in 2016. Exports increased $38.0 billion or 7.1 percent. Imports increased $47.5 billion or 7.1 percent.
The April increase in the goods and services deficit reflected an increase in the goods deficit of $2.3 billion to $68.4 billion and a decrease in the services surplus of less than $0.1 billion to $20.8 billion.

NEWS NOTEBOOK: UK police name two London attackers, say one investigated before (REU)
LONDON, June 5 (Reuters) - One of the three attackers who killed seven people near London Bridge on Saturday night was previously investigated by British security services but had not been viewed as a serious threat, British police said on Monday.

UN NEWS CENTER:  UN chief strongly condemns terrorist attacks in London
4 June 2017 – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned last night's terrorist attacks in London and expressed solidarity with the people and Government of the United Kingdom in the combat against terrorism and violent extremism.

WH: Readout of President Donald J. Trump's Call with Prime Minister Theresa May of the United Kingdom
President Donald J. Trump spoke with Prime Minister Theresa May of the United Kingdom today. The President offered his condolences for the brutal terror attacks on June 3 in central London.  He praised the heroic response of police and other first responders and offered the full support of the United States Government in investigating and bringing those responsible for these heinous acts to justice.  



(For more business and finance news headlines see page 2)

WDFW: Anglers can fish for free June 10-11, 2017

OLYMPIA – Each year, thousands of Washingtonians go fishing – legally – without a license on "Free Fishing Weekend," scheduled for June 10-11.
During those two days, no license will be required to fish or gather shellfish in any waters open to fishing in Washington state.
Anglers will also not need a Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement, otherwise required to fish for salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River and its tributaries.  Nor will they need a Two Pole Endorsement to fish with two poles in selected waters where two-pole fishing is permitted.
Also, no vehicle access pass or Discover Pass will be required during Free Fishing Weekend to park at any of the nearly 700 water-access sites maintained by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).  A Discover Pass is required in state parks on Sunday, June 11 and on DNR lands throughout the weekend however.
"If you haven't fished in Washington, or want to introduce fishing to someone new to the sport, this is the weekend to get out there," said Steve Thiesfeld, WDFW inland fish program manager.
Anglers have been catching daily limits of trout at lakes for the past month, and many rivers will open to trout fishing June 3 throughout the state. Other options available on Free Fishing Weekend include:
Lingcod on the coast.
Bass, crappie, perch and other warmwater fish biting in lakes throughout Washington.
Hatchery spring chinook on the lower Yakima River
Shad on the Columbia River.
Hatchery steelhead on rivers on the Olympic Peninsula.
For tips, new anglers should check online for the "Fish Washington" feature at the department's homepage (http://wdfw.wa.gov). The site provides details on lowland lake fishing, high lake fishing and marine area opportunities.
For those planning fishing vacations, Great Washington Getaways (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/vacation) showcases some of the state's best family travel and fishing opportunities.
And, for those who want even more fishing advice, the Fish Washington video page (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/videos) provides "how to" fishing videos designed to introduce techniques to both new and seasoned anglers.
Anglers who take part in free fishing weekend can also participate in the department's 2017 Trout Fishing Derby and redeem tags from fish caught over the weekend. Interested anglers should check for details online at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/derby.
Before heading out, anglers should also check the current fishing regulations valid through June at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations.
While no licenses are required on Free Fishing Weekend, other rules such as size limits, bag limits and area closures will still be in effect. Anglers will also be required to complete a catch record card for any salmon, steelhead, sturgeon or halibut they catch.
Catch record cards are available free at hundreds of sporting goods stores and other license dealers throughout the state. See http://wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/vendors on the WDFW website to locate a license dealer.
press release issued 6. 1. 17
http://wdfw.wa.gov/news/jun0117c/

This week's bible lesson see page 2

SHOULD WE HIDE OUR HISTORY BECAUSE IT'S NOT POLITICALLY CORRECT?

Editorial note: That's a question which I been pondering about ever since the news broke that some civil war monuments have been removed. Particularly the monuments of confederate generals. Granted if I been alive back then I'd be fighting on the side of the Union.  But, I do question the actions of some who want to change history if that is what this is all about
First let us look back 156 years during the American Civil war. BUT! It doesn't mean it's a cool thing to drive around with the stars and bars flag flying in the wind in the back of a pickup truck.  The flag they should be honoring in the back of their truck is old Glory, not the stars and bars of the confederacy.

 Quoting from wikipedia: " The American Civil War was fought in the United States from 1861 to 1865. After a long standing controversy over slavery and state's rights, war broke out in April 1861, when Confederates attacked Fort Sumter in South Carolina, shortly after Abraham Lincoln was elected. The nationalists of the Union proclaimed loyalty to the U.S. Constitution. They faced secessionists of the Confederate States of America advocating states’ rights to perpetual slavery and its expansion in the Americas.
Among the 34 U.S. states in February 1861, seven Southern slave states individually declared their secession from the U.S. to form the Confederate States of America. The Confederacy grew to include eleven states; it claimed two more border states (Kentucky and Missouri), the Indian Territory, and the southern portions of the Union's western territories of Arizona and New Mexico, which was organized and incorporated into the Confederacy as Confederate Arizona. The Confederacy was never diplomatically recognized by the United States government, nor was it recognized by any foreign country (although Britain and France granted it belligerent status). The states that remained loyal, including the border states where slavery was legal, were known as the Union or the North.
The North and South quickly raised volunteer and conscript armies that fought mostly in the South over four years. During this time many innovations in warfare occurred, including the development and use of iron-clad ships, ultimately changing naval strategy around the world. The Union finally won the war when General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant at the battle of Appomattox, which triggered a series of surrenders by Confederate generals throughout the southern states. Four years of intense combat left 620,000 to 750,000 soldiers dead, a higher number than the number of American military deaths in World War I and World War II combined, and much of the South's infrastructure was destroyed. The Confederacy collapsed, slavery was abolished, and 4 million slaves were freed. The Reconstruction Era (1863–1877) overlapped and followed the war, with the process of restoring national unity, strengthening the national government, and granting civil rights to freed slaves throughout the country. The Civil War is arguably the most studied and written about episode in American history."---read full story



The leading Generals:
Ulysses S. Grant (born Hiram Ulysses Grant; April 27, 1822 – July 23, 1885) was the 18th President of the United States (1869–77). As Commanding General (1864–69), Grant worked closely with President Abraham Lincoln to lead the Union Army to victory over the Confederacy in the American Civil War. Supported by Congress, Grant implemented Reconstruction, often at odds with President Andrew Johnson. Twice elected president, Grant led the Republicans in their effort to remove the vestiges of Confederate nationalism and slavery, protect African-American citizenship, and support economic prosperity. His presidency has often been criticized for tolerating corruption and for the economic depression in his second term.
Grant graduated in 1843 from the United States Military Academy at West Point, then served in the Mexican–American War. After the war he married Julia Boggs Dent in 1848, their marriage producing four children. Grant initially retired from the Army in 1854. He struggled financially in civilian life. When the Civil War began in 1861, he rejoined the U.S. Army. In 1862, Grant took control of Kentucky and most of Tennessee, and led Union forces to victory in the Battle of Shiloh, earning a reputation as an aggressive commander. In July 1863, after a series of coordinated battles, Grant defeated Confederate armies and seized Vicksburg, giving the Union control of the Mississippi River and dividing the Confederacy in two. After his victories in the Chattanooga Campaign, Lincoln promoted him to lieutenant general and Commanding General of the Army in March 1864. Grant confronted Robert E. Lee in a series of bloody battles, trapping Lee's army in their defense of Richmond. Grant coordinated a series of devastating campaigns in other theaters, as well. In April 1865, Lee surrendered to Grant at Appomattox, effectively ending the war. ---see full story

Editorial Note: So, are we going to start taking down Union generals monuments, or just target confederate ones?

Robert E Lee
Robert Edward Lee (January 19, 1807 – October 12, 1870) was an American general known for commanding the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia in the American Civil War from 1862 until his surrender in 1865. The son of Revolutionary War officer Henry "Light Horse Harry" Lee III, Lee was a top graduate of the United States Military Academy and an exceptional officer and military engineer in the United States Army for 32 years. During this time, he served throughout the United States, distinguished himself during the Mexican–American War, and served as Superintendent of the United States Military Academy.
When Virginia declared its secession from the Union in April 1861, Lee chose to follow his home state, despite his personal desire for the country to remain intact and an offer of a senior Union command.  During the first year of the Civil War, Lee served as a senior military adviser to President Jefferson Davis. Once he took command of the main field army in 1862 he soon emerged as a shrewd tactician and battlefield commander, winning most of his battles, all against far superior Union armies.  Lee's strategic foresight was more questionable, and both of his major offensives into Union territory ended in defeat.
Lee's aggressive tactics, which resulted in high casualties at a time when the Confederacy had a shortage of manpower, have come under criticism in recent years.  Lee surrendered his entire army to Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865. By this time, Lee had assumed supreme command of the remaining Southern armies; other Confederate forces swiftly capitulated after his surrender. Lee rejected the proposal of a sustained insurgency against the Union and called for reconciliation between the two sides.
After the war, as President of what is now Washington and Lee University, Lee supported President Andrew Johnson's program of Reconstruction and intersectional friendship, while opposing the Radical Republican proposals to give freed slaves the vote and take the vote away from ex-Confederates. He urged them to rethink their position between the North and the South, and the reintegration of former Confederates into the nation's political life. Lee became the great Southern hero of the War, a postwar icon of the "Lost Cause of the Confederacy" to some. But his popularity grew even in the North, especially after his death in 1870. Barracks at West Point built in 1962 are named after him. ( read full story) 



Related Stories:

NPR: New Orleans Takes Down Statue Of Gen. Robert E. Lee

FOX NEWS: New Orleans takes down prominent Confederate monument

WP: Protests against removing Confederate monuments are not really about history

NBC NEWS: Is Removing Confederate Monuments Like Erasing History?

NY TIMES: Mitch Landrieu’s Speech on the Removal of Confederate Monuments in New Orleans

NY DAILY NEWS: Condoleezza Rice argues tearing down slave owners’ statues is ‘sanitizing’ history
Quote: “When you start wiping out your history, sanitizing your history to make you feel better, it’s a bad thing,” Rice said.
Quote:  “I’m a firm believer in ‘keep your history before you.’ And so I don’t actually want to rename things that were named for slave owners,” Rice replied. “I want us to have to look at the names and recognize what they did, and be able to tell our kids what they did and for them to have a sense of their own history.”

DNR: Commissioner Franz Statement on President Trump’s Decision to Withdraw from Paris Climate Agreement

OLYMPIA – Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz released the following statement after President Donald Trump decided to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement.
 “This is a sad day for America. President Trump has broken our promise to the world to lead the way to a future in which we sustainably feed and support our communities. The burden now falls on us a state to double down on these efforts.
 “Today’s action by the president makes it clear we must do everything we can to prepare and adapt our state for the impacts of a changing climate. States have long been the front-runners of progress, and we will continue to lead the way.
 “We owe it to the 100,000 workers in Washington’s forest industry who are seeing their jobs go up in the smoke of intensifying wildfires, accelerating disease and broader insect infestations. We owe it to the 32,000 Washington shellfish workers who are seeing acidifying seas destroy the developing shells of our oysters and mussels. We owe it to the 90,000 people who work for Washington’s 100-plus clean energy companies whose products are exported to overseas buyers. We owe it to the 200,000 workers in Washington's outdoor recreation industry, who need clean air and water to help our people access and appreciate the lands that make us the Evergreen State. We owe it to the children who dig geoducks every day and to those who have never seen one.
 “It is up to us, the elected leaders of our state, to address threats to our quality of life. I will continue and redouble efforts to work for sound climate policy that works for all the people of our state, policies that:
* Significantly reduce carbon pollution
* Preserve the productivity of state lands
* Protect existing, family wage jobs in natural resource industries
* Grow new jobs in clean energy
* Provide value to those impacted by climate change, and those impacted by the policies we develop in response
 “We can take care of each other in Washington. Whether we live in Wallingford or Washtucna, our lands sustain us. It is our duty, now more than ever, to return the favor.”---from a press release issued June 1st.
http://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/commissioner-franz-statement-president-trump%E2%80%99s-decision-withdraw-paris-climate-agreement

For local news headlines and commentary see page 2

Inslee, New York Governor Cuomo, and California Governor Brown announce formation of United States Climate Alliance

OLYMPIA - In response to President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, California Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr., and Washington State Governor Jay Inslee today announced the formation of the United States Climate Alliance, a coalition that will convene U.S. states committed to upholding the Paris Climate Agreement and taking aggressive action on climate change.
“I am proud to stand with other governors as we make sure that the inaction in D.C. is met by an equal force of action from the states," said Inslee. "Today’s announcement by the president leaves the full responsibility of climate action on states and cities throughout our nation. While the president’s actions are a shameful rebuke to the work needed to protect our planet for our children and grandchildren, states have been and will continue to step up.”
“The White House’s reckless decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement has devastating repercussions not only for the United States, but for our planet. This administration is abdicating its leadership and taking a backseat to other countries in the global fight against climate change,” said Governor Cuomo. “New York State is committed to meeting the standards set forth in the Paris Accord regardless of Washington’s irresponsible actions. We will not ignore the science and reality of climate change which is why I am also signing an Executive Order confirming New York’s leadership role in protecting our citizens, our environment, and our planet.”
New York, California and Washington, representing over one-fifth of U.S. Gross Domestic Product, are committed to achieving the U.S. goal of reducing emissions 26-28 percent from 2005 levels and meeting or exceeding the targets of the federal Clean Power Plan.
“The President has already said climate change is a hoax, which is the exact opposite of virtually all scientific and worldwide opinion,” said Governor Brown. “I don't believe fighting reality is a good strategy - not for America, not for anybody. If the President is going to be AWOL in this profoundly important human endeavor, then California and other states will step up.”
Together, New York, California and Washington represent approximately 68 million people – nearly one-in-five Americans – and the states account for at least 10 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Washington will continue to work closely together with other states  to help fill the void left by the federal government.
With input from all participants, the U.S. Climate Alliance will also act as a forum to sustain and strengthen existing climate programs, promote the sharing of information and best practices, and implement new programs to reduce carbon emissions from all sectors of the economy.

http://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-new-york-governor-cuomo-and-california-governor-brown-announce-formation-united

Related Story:
Inslee statement on Trump's intention to remove U.S. from international climate agreement
Washington state is leading the way on climate issues where Washington, D.C., is failing. The Paris Climate Agreement is a landmark international pact that represents our greatest opportunity to secure long-term U.S. and global economic security in the face of growing threats from climate change. One hundred and ninety-four nations have signed the agreement, 147 have ratified it, and more than 85 percent of the world's carbon pollution are now covered by its terms. Counted among the signatories are China and India, two of the world's largest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions, whose support for the agreement emerged through diligent U.S. leadership.
"Today the White House signaled that President Donald Trump will end the United States' participation in this agreement. This is a shameful course of action that will jeopardize the health and prosperity of our children and grandchildren. With this decision, Trump would leave America's destiny not as a nation that harnesses the clean, renewable energy above our shoulders, but that instead remains mired in the dirty, diminishing energy under our feet.
"But even before today, the Trump Administration has been taking steps to show it will refuse to confront the climate challenge. Trump's Environmental Protection Agency is already working to gut carbon pollution standards, to instead benefit fossil fuel industry profits; his Energy Department is proposing to slash research and development into new clean energy technologies; and his State Department has already checked out of our international climate partnerships.
"In Washington state we are taking action to reduce carbon pollution. We have implemented a cap on carbon pollution, and we will continue working with businesses and research institutions to develop and deploy 21st century clean energy solutions. We are also partnering with other states who are doing the same, and our states will not stop fighting for a clean energy future, regardless of who is in the White House. But we - and the global community - need a partner in the United States federal government.
"The U.S. cannot credibly remain a world leader while withdrawing from an agreement that reflects the overwhelming desire of the global community. President Trump has put our nation on the wrong path, and the wrong side of history."
http://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-statement-trumps-intention-remove-us-international-climate-agreement

(For more state related stories see page 2)

Cantwell, Murray Raise Concerns over President Trump’s Cuts to Rural Development

President Trump’s drastic budget cuts, coupled with plans to eliminate the USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development, would hurt small towns and rural communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) joined 27 Senate Democrats to send a letter to President Trump expressing strong concerns over recent actions that would have negative impacts on families in rural America.
Last week, President Trump issued a budget proposal calling for drastic cuts that would undermine the important rural development mission at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). These damaging cuts come on the heels of recently announced plans to eliminate the USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development, an important advocate for small towns and rural communities across the country.
In the letter, the Senators objected to the proposed cuts, and urged President Trump to maintain the Under Secretary for Rural Development.
“Small towns and rural communities embody many of our nation’s greatest strengths, and the people of these communities deserve every opportunity to raise their families with well-paying jobs and a high quality of life,” wrote the senators. “Our small towns and rural communities, however, experience unique challenges in developing and maintaining infrastructure and providing high-quality health services and education. Understanding and responding to these unique challenges to help these communities create jobs and drive economic growth is the principal mission of USDA Rural Development.”
press release: https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-raise-concerns-over-president-trumps-cuts-to-rural-development-
See full text of letter to President Trump


Cantwell and Bipartisan, Bicameral Group of Lawmakers Work to Reunite U.S. Families & Their Adopted Children

Adoption Ban Leaves 200 U.S. families & their Adopted Children in Limbo
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), along with 122 Members of Congress, urged the Prime Minister of Ethiopia to reconsider his April 21st decision to suspend international adoptions. The order has left more than 200 U.S. families, and the Ethiopian children they are trying to bring home, in a heartbreaking limbo.
In a bipartisan - and bicameral - letter to Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, Cantwell, 47 of her Senate colleagues, and 75 members of the House of Representatives said: “While we respect your government’s decisions regarding future adoption policy in Ethiopia, we ask for your help in resolving expeditiously cases that were already underway on April 21.  We are concerned that a failure to work with us to help these children join their adoptive families could have a negative impact on the relationship between our two governments.”
The group of lawmakers is particularly concerned about approximately 30 adoptions that have already been finalized but, because of the order, the parents are unable to obtain the final paperwork, or “vitals”, necessary to bring their legally-adopted children home.  The government of Ethiopia has provided the adoptive parents no legal justification for the delays, which have had an adverse effect on the children: “In many cases, children and families have already initiated the emotional bonding and attachment process.  We fear breaking these attachments by delaying these adoptions may be detrimental to the children and adoptive families involved.  Our constituents want to provide loving, safe families to those in need and simply wish to bring their adopted children home in a timely fashion and in accordance with the law.”
Press release: https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-and-bipartisan-bicameral-group-of-lawmakers-work-to-reunite-us-families-and-their-adopted-children-



For more news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC, and Advocacy Notebook headlines see page 2

Wild Olympics' Proposal Harnesses Economic Power of Public Lands, Supporters Say

A measure to protect land and waterways in Washington’s Olympic Peninsula will preserve environmental assets while creating jobs, supporters say. The days of “either/or” are over, says U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (D) of Washington’s 6th District.
U. S. Representative Derek Kilmer is a native of his home district, raised by two educators in Port Angeles, Washington. The city of 19,000 is the largest along the 90-mile northern coast of the Olympic Peninsula .
Kilmer speaks fondly of a childhood, “hiking the Hoh, paddling the sound.” The representative is a creature of his Northwest Washington district, most of which is characterized by rural and public land.
Kilmer, who was first elected to Congress in 2012, believes that activities like these are one of the key economic engines for rural communities. “There’s a lot of money, a lot of income, in outdoor recreation.”
Kilmer, collaborating with Washington Senator Patty Murray, hopes to strengthen his district’s economy by expanding recreation opportunities in the Olympic region. Their Wild Olympics Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Act has a goal of protecting more than 126,500 acres of Olympic National Forest as wilderness along with 19 rivers and their tributaries. Working with community partners in the Wild Olympics Campaign, Kilmer said his bill “has an eye toward the notion that you can both protect land and support job creation. It’s not an either/or approach. It’s a both/and.”
Further quote: " Some citizens on the Olympic Peninsula are opposed to the Wild Olympics plans, calling it “Obama’s land deal power grab.” Critics say that a Wilderness designation would limit access to public land, decrease a needed focus on wildfire prevention, and increase the federal deficit. They point to a history of mismanagement of local federal lands that they say could signal trouble to come.
Representative Kilmer says that the 2017 proposal takes these criticisms into account. The current Wild Olympics proposal is an outgrowth of “extensive conversations with local communities, Native American tribes, the timber industry, environmental groups, and small business owners throughout the Peninsula. We’ve figured out to how to thread the needle.” Input from Peninsula communities ensured that the legislative proposal was designed to have no impact on timber jobs and close no roads. As local efforts for the proposal move ahead, more than 700 local elected officials, businesses, hunting and fishing groups, and sport fishing entrepreneurs endorsed the legislation."
Sources: Congressman Kilmer web page share news article from the Daily Yonder.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/wild-olympics-proposal-harnesses-economic-power-of-public-lands-supporters-say




For more national headlines see page 2

Recent tragedies highlight urgency for ‘credible’ and ‘safe’ pathways to Europe – UN refugee agency

UN NEWS SERVICE:  Recent tragedies highlight urgency for ‘credible’ and ‘safe’ pathways to Europe – UN refugee agency
30 May 2017 – Against the backdrop of more than 1,700 people having perished this year while undertaking perilous crossings across central Mediterranean Sea to reach mainland Europe, the United Nations refugee agency has appealed for “credible alternatives” to ensure accessible and safe ways for people in need of international protection to reach the continent.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56858

Central African Republic: Amid fresh violence, UN rallies support for displaced
30 May 2017 – United Nations agencies are seeking to rally support for the people fleeing escalating violence in the Central African Republic (CAR), while the Organization's human rights office has called for the establishment of a strong justice system in the country.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56857

With 'blue helmets' in harm's way every day, peacekeeping reforms and resources needed – UN chief
29 May 2017 – Marking International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, Secretary-General António Guterres today said that peacekeeping must have the tools and rules it needs to adapt to the dangerous and challenging environments they face.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56854

UN risk reduction forum in Cancun closes with call to harness data
29 May 2017 – We can't change nature, but we can be prepared if we have the right information – that was the message from a major United Nations conference on risk reduction in Cancun, Mexico, which closed with a call for all countries to systematically measure losses from natural disasters.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56856

Civilians in Syria must be spared from anti-ISIL airstrikes – UN rights chief
26 May 2017 – The United Nations human rights chief today urged all warring parties in Syria to take every feasible measure to spare the civilian population from the effects of the armed conflict, noting that civilians are increasing caught in fighting between the Government forces and the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da'esh) terrorist group.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56844

For more world news and events see page 2


Business and finance report can be found on page 3

NO UPDATE FOR TODAY

Readers, I'm taking the day off today. Hope you all have a great Memorial Day.
Tomorrow's publication will feature two reports Business news, and our regular world news and events. Enjoy the holiday everyone.

  
From a shared facebook photo

COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING HIGHLIGHT: LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR A SCHOOL BASED HEALTH CLINIC

Tuesday, the County commission will hold both their work session, and regular meetings due to the Memorial Day holiday. Both the city, and port have no scheduled meetings next week, so the only game in town is on the County Level.
The highlight item on the work session agenda is a letter regarding a letter of support for a school based health clinic.
Discuss letter of support encouraging the Port Angeles School Board to adopt a program for a School Based Health Clinic presented by the North Olympic Healthcare Network ( Port Angeles Schoof District, and Port Angeles Citizen Action Network.
See draft of letter being sent: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=43&meta_id=10150
See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=43
Meeting will start at 9AM at the County Court House.

During the regular meeting starting at 10AM the agenda highlight item (s) are: 
Resolution adopting the following Budget Revisions:
Non Departmental – Hotel/Motel Tax – Reallocation of funds in order to make a onetime expenditure to Clallam County Public Works for the Olympic Discovery Trail Hwy 112 to Waterline Road – Bridge and Abutments project/$105,000
Department of Community Development – Approved in 2017 budget for the completion of the Shoreline Management Plan the funds need to be moved out of Code Enforcement Professional Services and added to the Long Range Planning Professional Services/$40,000
see details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325&meta_id=10222

Resolution re-establishing the Clallam Bay-Sekiu Sewer Community Advisory Board
 The Board of Clallam County Commíssioners recognizes the valued consumers of having an Advisory Board to address their make recommendations to the Board of Commissioners rate structure, and billing disputes.
see for further details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325&meta_id=10214

Resolution adopting the following Supplemental Appropriation:
Department of Community Development – Long Range Planning/Natural Resources –Professional services for the McDonald Creek Restoration – Feasibility/Implementation and extends the expiration date to 6-30-2018/$190,000
see for further details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325&meta_id=10220
See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=325

 DAILY DEVOTIONAL:
 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.----Acts 20:24 NKJV
Free bible study offered by World Bible School
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/
Learn english using the bible as text (WEI)
http://www.worldenglishinstitute.org/


Editorial Note: Not much this week on the local level in this week's edition. Go and enjoy the Memorial Day holiday everyone.

Kilmer Presses Trump Administration Officials on Why Budget Proposal Cuts Manufacturing and Coastal Protection Initiatives that Help Olympic Peninsula

Washington, D.C. – Today, during a House Appropriations Committee hearing, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) pressed Trump Administration officials for answers as to why programs that create jobs and protect rural communities are cut in their proposed budget. Kilmer asked the Secretary of Commerce, Wilbur Ross, why a program that provided a key investment to help Port Angeles’s Composite Recycling Technology Center open was slated for elimination. He also sought an explanation for the zeroing out of an initiative that helps rural communities on the coast counter rising sea levels and tsunami threats.
The Port Angeles composite center won federal grants through the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration and recently received the 2017 Washington Manufacturing Award from Seattle Business Magazine.
Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross appeared before the Commerce, Justice, Science, and related agencies.
Kilmer pointed out the importance of the Administration to the Port Angeles project, and others like it.
Kilmer said: “Before I came to Congress I worked in economic development professionally and worked often with the only agency at the federal level whose sole purpose is economic development and that’s the Economic Development Administration. I represent a district that has a lot of areas that are really struggling. My hometown of Port Angeles is one of those distressed communities. And with the help of the EDA’s Regional Innovation Strategies Program we started up a composite recycling center in that town with an investment of $500,000 which is a drop in the bucket for the federal government.  The recycling center is going to establish a new industry and bring much needed jobs into an area that needs it. I am perplexed that the Department would choose to eliminate one of the federal government’s strongest supporters of job creation. I know that the rationale is stated as it being duplicative. I would love to understand what programs EDA is duplicative of and what’s the rationale for eliminating it.”
read full statement: 


Editorial Comment: When I first heard of the opportunity of having a high tech trade like composites, I thought it would be under private business hands, not funded by government handouts. It was good to have the assistance of the government in this new industry to start it, but at some point you have to prove if your new product can be marketed in the private sector not continually funded by government grants, and loans. When does it fall into private hands Congressman Kilmer? If the composite trade is a boon it should survive the private sector, right now all they seem to be building out of the composites are park benches! So, we are getting governmental grants, and loans for park benches....something wrong with that picture?

For more state related news see page 2

Kilmer & Heck Speak Out Against President Trump’s Budget Proposal that Eliminates Investments in Puget Sound

Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (WA-06) and Denny Heck (WA-10), co-founders of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, spoke out against President Trump’s budget proposal which would completely eliminate several key programs that promote restoration efforts in the Puget Sound region.
“Puget Sound is an iconic body of water that is vital to our economy and to who we are as Washingtonians,” said Kilmer. “The President’s budget does not reflect this. President Trump has pledged to work for clean water and good jobs but his proposal would devastate efforts to restore shellfish beds, revitalize salmon runs, and recover the Sound for future generations. The federal government needs to be a partner in making the Sound healthy again. As Vice Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee I will fight back against this completely irresponsible plan.”
“While I’m frustrated the Trump Administration continues to attack critical funding for Puget Sound recovery, the Constitution gives Congress the ‘power of the purse,’ not the President,” said Heck. “My colleagues on both sides of the aisle have shown concern regarding the President’s budget proposal, and I look forward to working with them to prevent these thoughtless cuts.”
Clean water in Puget Sound is essential to support 3,200 shellfish jobs that generate $184 million in revenue each year. 80 percent of statewide tourism and recreational dollars are tied to Puget Sound. The state’s marine industry – which includes fishing fleets, ports, and seafood processors – generates $30 billion annually.
Every EPA dollar spent on Puget Sound recovery efforts has leveraged more than $24 in matching funds from other federal agencies and local partners, including the state, tribes, and non-profits.
The President has proposed eliminating millions of dollars in investments across several programs and agencies that all work collectively to protect clean water and promote healthy salmon and shellfish habitat throughout the Puget Sound as well as other coastal areas across the country.
These cuts include:
$28 million from the Puget Sound Geographic Program which supports grants to state, local and tribal governments to help implement Washington's Puget Sound Action Agenda.
$65 million from the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund which was established by Congress in order to prevent the extinction of 28 listed Pacific salmon and steelhead species, by supporting conservation efforts in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Alaska.
More than $700 million from State and Tribal Assistance Grants which help to support state and tribal government efforts to implement programs to promote air and water quality and meet their requirements under federal laws such as the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and the Safe Drinking Water Act.
$27 million from the National Estuary Program that supports water quality and habitat recovery efforts in the Puget Sound and 27 other estuaries throughout the country.
Congressmen Kilmer and Heck co-founded the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus in 2013 as part of their ongoing commitment to preserving Puget Sound. The three priorities of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus are: preventing pollution from urban storm water runoff, protecting and restoring habitat, and restoring and re-opening shellfish beds----from a press release posted on May 23rd.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-and-heck-speak-out-against-president-trumps-budget-proposal-that-eliminates-investments-in-puget-sound

For more news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC, and Advocacy awareness see page 2

WHITE HOUSE RELEASES THE 2018 BUDGET, SOME CLAIM IT TARGETS THE DISABLED.

First let us take a look at some white house briefings on the subject of the proposed budget:

WH: Off-camera Briefing of the FY18 Budget by Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney.
" How do we get there?  Amongst other things, we’ll talk about that.  We talk about this in terms of tax policy.  We talk about capital investment.  Right now, one of the things that touches on the budget and how we get 3 percent growth, we need folks to work.  We do.  We need people to go to work.  If you're on food stamps, and you're able-bodied, we need you to go to work.  If you're on disability insurance and you're not supposed to be -- if you're not truly disabled, we need you to go back to work.  We need everybody pulling in the same direction.
I think the difference right now between the U3 and the U6 unemployment rate -- I’ll look at this, don't want to get this wrong -- remember U3 is the unemployment rate as we look at it; and then U6 is the unemployed, plus the marginally attached, plus part-time for economic reasons, right?  So it’s folks who want to work more but can't.  That's the difference between U3 and U6 -- U3 unemployed, U6 unemployed plus folks who aren’t working enough but want to.  That's 6.8 million people.  Okay?  We want those folks to work.  We need them to work.  They want to work as evidenced by the fact they're part-time against their will.
This is one of the things the budget focuses on.  We go through the various reforms that we talk about.  There’s a dignity to work, and there’s a necessity to work to help the country succeed.  And we need everybody to pull in the same direction."

DIRECTOR MULVANEY:  "And the no’s -- well, we’ll do the -- and we’ll talk about that in a second.
The no’s were all Social Security and Medicare.  That's it.  He said, I promised people on the campaign trail I would not touch their retirement, and I would not touch Medicaid.
And we don't do it.  I honestly was surprised that we could balance the budget without changing those programs, but we manage to do that.  We’ll talk about how we did that in a second.
At the same time, before I get the question -- people are going to say, oh, but Social Security disability insurance is part of Social Security.  If you ask 999 people out of 1,000 would tell you that Social Security disability is not part of Social Security.  It’s old-age retirement that they think of when they think of Social Security.  In fact, the paid parental leave program that we are running, we are running it through the unemployment insurance program.  And I think a couple of states right now actually that do it at the state level run it through their disability program.  That does not mean that paid parental leave is unemployment or disability any more than the Social Security disability insurance program is part of Social Security.  It just happens to be where they are structured."
Q    But how do you stand behind a budget that doesn't deal with those two issues?  I understand the President doesn't want to.  But you voted for programs that -- in that past that --
DIRECTOR MULVANEY:  I absolutely did.  And I made the case for why those programs needed to be reformed.  The President said, no, I’m going to keep my promises.
And I said, well, I’d still like to balance the budget.
He goes, I still want you to balance the budget, just don't do it changing these programs.
And we were able to do it.  You asked the question about, how does 3 percent economic growth contribute to that?  It actually does help the program, as you can probably imagine, as more people go into work -- and the President talked about this a little bit I think on the campaign trail -- as people come -- that U3-U6 split, which again is like 6 million people, if those folks go back to work full-time, they're now paying into the system.  If the folks who are on Social Security disability insurance who are not supposed to be, if they go back to work, they're paying into the system, and they're not taking out of the system.  So it does make the programs healthier.  It does not solve their long-term deficiencies.
See full White House press briefing: https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/05/22/camera-briefing-fy18-budge-omb-director-mulvaney

Editorial Note: I agree that only people should be getting assistance from governmental benefits, are truly disabled, and can't work.  Not those who have two good legs, and arms, who can work yet, get government handouts, like food stamps, and disability pension. I think this is what the proposed 2018 budget is addressing, not the following story which sets the tone just by the words they use to make Trump out as a person who is a bigot toward people with disabilities.

CENTER FOR AMERICAN PROGRESS: President Donald Trump’s hateful rhetoric about people with disabilities during the presidential campaign is no longer just words. Now his budget threatens to set disability rights and inclusion back 50 years or more by stripping away critical protections and slashing vital programs that ensure basic living standards for the 1 in 5 Americans with disabilities. Meanwhile, despite media reports to the contrary, his budget breaks one of his core campaign promises: not to cut Social Security.
President Trump’s budget proposal would be especially damaging to veterans and people living in rural areas, who are especially likely to be disabled. What’s more, his budget proposals would disproportionately harm the very areas that shifted toward Trump during the 2016 election. New analysis from the Center for American Progress reveals that in counties that shifted most heavily toward Trump in 2016—where he performed at least 15 percentage points better than Mitt Romney in 2012—the share of people who report having a disability is 28 percent higher than the national average. Here is how President Trump’s budget would harm people with disabilities.
See full article: https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/economy/news/2017/05/23/432851/trump-budgets-attack-people-disabilities/

Editorial comment: Note the language being used in the article, you can tell the authors are just out to cause fear, and blinded by their own hate toward Trump to see how things really are in the disability community. Many would happy as clams if they were able to break free from the chains of governmental hand outs, and be making money on their own. However, there are those out there who commit welfare, and medicare fraud the above article never even mentions. It's time to weed out the dead beats who have been taking money from those who are really in need. Read what was actually been said in the White House briefing, and compared to what was reported in the Center for American Progress, and ask, who is it really preventing all in America towards progress in becoming self sufficient. It sounds to me those who want to keep disabled in the poor house are the ones who wants to  keep the disabled (like me) be subject to whims the democratic party, what do you think? It's the DEMOCRATS who want us to be kept in poverty!

Related stories: US DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELEASES FISCAL YEAR 2018 BUDGET REQUEST
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta today released the fiscal year 2018 budget request for the U.S. Department of Labor. It supports President Donald J. Trump’s plan to invest in priorities that will help American workers develop the necessary skills to meet the demands of a 21st century economy and get good, safe jobs, provide working families access to paid leave, assist employers in meeting their responsibilities under worker protection laws, and restore fiscal responsibility.
Refocuses the department’s commitment to people with disabilities by launching a new demonstration project, jointly funded with the Social Security Administration, to test interventions that promote the labor force participation of people with disabilities and prevent permanent labor force detachment resulting from illness or injury.
https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/opa/opa20170523

Editorial note: Does this sound like an administration who hate's people with disabilities?

For more national news headlines see page 2

UN: Deeply Concerned by Military Escalation in Libya following Attack on Air Base, Secretary-General Calls upon All Parties to Exercise Restraint

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:
The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the military escalation at the Brak al-Shati air base in southern Libya and calls on all parties to exercise restraint and restore calm.  He is particularly disturbed by the high number of fatalities as well as reports of summary executions of civilians, which, if confirmed, may constitute war crimes.  The continued insecurity in Libya is a reminder that there is no military solution.  The Secretary-General therefore urges all key Libyan stakeholders to recommit to the political dialogue and engage constructively towards that goal.
The Secretary-General appreciates the efforts of a number of regional and neighbouring countries for their contributions aimed at strengthening the dialogue between key stakeholders in support of the overall United Nations-led process.---from press release issued 5. 23. 17
http://www.un.org/press/en/2017/sgsm18526.doc.htm



For more world news and events see page 2

U.S. Department of Commerce Initiates Investigation of Imports of Civil Aircraft from Canada

“The U.S. market is the most open in the world, but we must take action if  our rules are being broken” said Secretary Ross. “While assuring the case is decided strictly on a full and fair assessment of the facts, we will do everything in our power to stand up for American companies and their workers.”
If the Commerce Department determines that Canadian civil aircraft are being dumped into the U.S. market, and/or receiving unfair government subsidies -- and the U.S. International Trade Commission determines that dumped and/or unfairly subsidized Canadian imports of civil aircraft into the United States are causing harm to the U.S. industry -- then the Commerce Department will impose duties on those imports in the amount of the dumping and/or unfair subsidization found to exist.
Although Canadian civil aircraft subject to these investigations have not yet been imported into the United States, an April 2016 press release announcing the sale of Canadian civil aircraft to a U.S. airline valued the order to be in excess of $5 billion.
The estimated dumping margin alleged by the petitioner is 79.82 percent and the unfair subsidies are estimated to be 79.41.  Commerce has initiated an investigation into 14 alleged subsidy programs.
Next Steps:
During the Commerce Department investigations into whether Canadian civil aircraft are being dumped and subsidized, the U.S. International Trade Commission will conduct its own investigations into whether the U.S. industry and its workforce are being harmed by such imports.  The ITC will make its preliminary determinations on or before June 12.  If the ITC preliminarily determines that there is threat of injury then the Commerce Department investigations will continue, with a preliminary countervailing duty determination in July 2017, followed by a preliminary antidumping determination in October 2017, unless these deadlines are extended.
If the Commerce Department preliminarily determines that dumping or subsidization is occurring, then it will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to start collecting cash deposits from all U.S. companies importing the subject civil aircraft from Canada.
Final determinations by the Commerce Department in these cases are scheduled for October 2017 for the countervailing duty investigation, and December 2017 for the antidumping duty investigation, but those dates may be extended.  If either the Commerce Department does not find that products are being dumped or unfairly subsidized, or the U.S. International Trade Commission does not find in its final determination there is harm to the U.S. industry, then the investigations will be terminated and no duties will be applied.---From a press release issued May 18th.
See full statement: https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2017/05/us-department-commerce-initiates-investigation-imports-civil-aircraft

For more business and finance news see page 2

Port Announces New Tenant at Airport Industrial Park

The Port of Port Angeles is pleased to announce that Airborne Environmental Control Systems (AECS), a New York-based aerospace company, has signed a five-year lease for 5,000 square feet in the Multi-Tenant Industrial Building at the Port’s Airport Industrial Park to set up manufacturing operations. They currently have substantial military contracts with several key Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM).  AECS works directly with companies such as Raytheon, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Boeing, Airbus Defense and Sierra Nevada Corporation.  AECS also engages in opportunities with several international entities who support DoD, NATO and joint allied initiatives.
AECS will initially invest over $200,000 in tenant improvements as part of its phased move to Port Angeles. AECS plans to invest in design, development, rapid prototyping and high tech manufacturing equipment at the Port Angeles site, and wants to expand to 15,000-25,000 square feet in future years. The company estimates that 18 to 20 employees will be hired in the first year, and a total of 80 to 100 over a period of five years as AECS grows and additional products are produced in-house.
AECS designs and manufactures airborne environmental control systems (ECS) for both airborne and ground-based military platforms, as well as thermal solutions for fixed and rotary wing aircraft cabin and avionics cooling systems. Its founder and CEO William (Bill) Lee grew up in Joyce, and has family in Clallam County. Mr. Lee has over 30 years of experience in the aerospace Industry with Fortune 500 companies such as Rockwell Collins, GE Aviation, Moog and Boeing, including 17 years living outside of the US supporting commercial aerospace, the US Department of Defense and NATO.
From the AECS web site: “The highly flexible, scalable nature of our products makes them a perfect fit for markets around the world, including defense contractors, the military, security agencies and civil aviation. Regardless of application complexity or mission demands, AECS systems deliver a strategic advantage thanks to their ultralight construction and unprecedented thermal control.”
“We are excited about having a very high quality aerospace manufacturer come to Port Angeles and have Bill Lee ‘come back home’ after his travels and work around the world,” stated Port Commissioner, Connie Beauvais.    “Adding this business to the cadre of family wage jobs in our county will help provide career opportunities for our young adults.”
The cooperation and efforts of Impact Washington, the Washington Business Alliance and the Washington State Department of Commerce were integral in bringing Airborne ECS, Inc. to Clallam County.
“We are delighted to welcome Airborne ECS to Washington! Commerce’s top priority is strengthening communities through strong local partnerships,” stated Brian Bonlender, Washington State Commerce Director.   “This project is a fine example of what can be achieved by putting a rural focus on our aerospace sector strategy for economic development. Thank you to Impact Washington, Clallam County EDC, the Port of Port Angeles and everyone who played a role in delivering good jobs and growth potential to the Port Angeles community.”  ---press release issued May 18th
http://www.portofpa.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=147
To learn more about AECS, visit http://airborneecs.com/


For more local news and happenings see page 2

KILMER: House Democrat Budget & Appropriations Leaders Call on Congress to Raise the Spending Caps

Washington, D.C. – Today House Budget Committee Ranking Member John Yarmuth, House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Nita Lowey, Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer, House Budget Committee Vice Ranking Member Pramila Jayapal, and House Appropriations Committee Vice Ranking Member Derek Kilmer joined with representatives from NDD United at a press conference calling on Congress to raise the 2018 spending caps. If no action is taken, Congress will face irresponsible and arbitrary austerity-level caps that threaten our country’s economy, security, and standing as a global leader.
The members also called for Congress to continue the tradition of parity—equal amounts of spending increases for defense and nondefense programs—that previous bipartisan agreements on the spending caps have implemented.   In contrast, President Trump’s budget blueprint increased defense spending levels at the expense of nondefense investments, a short-sighted and cold-hearted proposal that guts services and programs vital to American families.
“The current 2018 spending caps are far too low and would leave our country unable to make investments critical to our families, our economy, and our security,” said Yarmuth. “Unfortunately, President Trump’s budget blueprint takes us in the wrong direction, cutting even more funding for programs that support health research, environmental protection, housing programs, diplomacy initiatives, and much more. Members of Congress of both parties have the responsibility – and the opportunity -- to invest in both non-defense and defense spending, boost economic development, and guarantee that every American family has the chance to build a better future. We’ve raised the caps in a bipartisan manner before, and we must do so again.”
“A failure to raise existing spending caps on defense and nondefense – combined with our late start and an erratic President who seems to want a government shutdown – would set this year’s Appropriations process up for failure,” said Lowey.  “We need a budget framework that makes it possible for Congress to pass responsible spending bills, and fulfill our responsibilities at home and abroad.  Democrats will again work in good faith in this critical process, but we will not help pass spending bills that jeopardize investments in hardworking American families.”
"I was proud to stand with my Democratic colleagues and NDD United this morning to call for robust investment in our domestic priorities," said Hoyer. "On Tuesday, the President is expected to unveil a budget that busts through spending caps for defense while slashing domestic investment, which are also critical to our defense. We can't have a secure nation if our citizens aren't educated, aren't healthy, and don't have access to opportunities. Democrats will continue to demand parity between defense and non-defense spending, and I urge my Republican colleagues to reject the Trump budget and work with us to raise the caps."
"This budget is more than just numbers on a page—it represents our moral values and our commitment to the future of this country. Trump’s proposed budget eliminates funding for crucial Community Development Block Grants like Meals on Wheels and Head Start programs for kids, it slashes funding from the EPA and eliminates 3,200 jobs across the country," said Jayapal. "It is a cruel joke on working people. We need a budget that makes us healthier, safer and better off. Now is the time to invest in communities, working families and job growth—that’s an effective budget, and it’s the vision I intend to fight for."---From a press release issued May 18th Congressman Kilmer.
Read more: http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-democrat-budget-and-appropriations-leaders-call-on-congress-to-raise-the-spending-caps

For News from OLYMPIA and other state news see page 2



NEWS NOTEBOOK

Check out my new essay page

KILMER: New Zealand Embassy hosts Regional D.C. Fly-In delegation

As part of the 2017 Regional D.C. Fly-In we were honored to be hosted at the New Zealand Embassy for an international trade policy reception. Attendees heard from New Zealand Ambassador Timothy Groser and Congressman Derek Kilmer on the importance of trade, good trade policy, and diplomacy.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/new-zealand-embassy-hosts-regional-dc-fly-in-delegation

Deploying service members could end TV, internet contracts without fees under Costello bill
Deploying active-duty service members could terminate television and internet service contracts without penalty under bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S Rep. Ryan Costello (R-PA) last week.
The measure, which Costello introduced with U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA), would expand protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to ensure active-duty troops aren’t penalized with termination fees when they’re given orders to move or deploy.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/deploying-service-members-could-end-tv-internet-contracts-without-fees-under-costello-bill

Congressman Kilmer: Trump won't deal with voter suppression
U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer slammed President Trump for making “spurious claims” of voter fraud following the announcement of a new executive order Thursday calling for a new commission to examine voting irregularities.
The president has claimed — without a hint of evidence — that millions of people illegally cast votes in the November 2016 election. Trump lost the popular vote by approximately 3 million votes, but gained the presidency through a win in the Electoral College.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/congressman-kilmer-trump-wont-deal-with-voter-suppression

 GAO Requested to Study Restoring FAA Commercial Space Office to Secretary's Level
Three members of the House have sent a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting a study on the feasibility of elevating the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA's) Office of Commercial Space Transportation (FAA/AST) to the Secretary of Transportation's office. Advocates believe that would facilitate getting needed financial and personnel resources to allow the office to fulfill its duties as the commercial space launch business expands.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/in-the-news/gao-requested-to-study-restoring-faa-commercial-space-office-to-secretarys-level

Murphy, Kilmer Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Declaring May as “Mental Health Month”
WASHINGTON, DC - Today Rep. Tim Murphy (R-PA) and Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA) introduced H.R. 320, a bipartisan resolution declaring May as "Mental Health Month," to bring awareness for the need to address our nation's mental health and addiction crisis. While over 43 million Americans suffer from mental illness, and nearly 10 million suffer from severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, too many go without evidence-based treatment. Every day, 950 lives are lost, directly or indirectly, to mental illness.
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/murphy-kilmer-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-declaring-may-as-mental-health-month

For more news from our congressional delegation to Washington DC, and our Advocacy Notebook see page 2

WH: Presidential Executive Order on the Establishment of Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in order to promote fair and honest Federal elections, it is hereby ordered as follows:
Section 1.  Establishment.  The Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity (Commission) is hereby established.
Sec. 2.  Membership.  The Vice President shall chair the Commission, which shall be composed of not more than 15 additional members.  The President shall appoint the additional members, who shall include individuals with knowledge and experience in elections, election management, election fraud detection, and voter integrity efforts, and any other individuals with knowledge or experience that the President determines to be of value to the Commission.  The Vice President may select a Vice Chair of the Commission from among the members appointed by the President.
Sec. 3.  Mission.  The Commission shall, consistent with applicable law, study the registration and voting processes used in Federal elections.  The Commission shall be solely advisory and shall submit a report to the President that identifies the following:
(a)  those laws, rules, policies, activities, strategies, and practices that enhance the American people's confidence in the integrity of the voting processes used in Federal elections;
(b)  those laws, rules, policies, activities, strategies, and practices that undermine the American people's confidence in the integrity of the voting processes used in Federal elections; and
(c)  those vulnerabilities in voting systems and practices used for Federal elections that could lead to improper voter registrations and improper voting, including fraudulent voter registrations and fraudulent voting.
Sec. 4.  Definitions.  For purposes of this order:
(a)  The term "improper voter registration" means any situation where an individual who does not possess the legal right to vote in a jurisdiction is included as an eligible voter on that jurisdiction's voter list, regardless of the state of mind or intent of such individual
(b)  The term "improper voting" means the act of an individual casting a non-provisional ballot in a jurisdiction in which that individual is ineligible to vote, or the act of an individual casting a ballot in multiple jurisdictions, regardless of the state of mind or intent of that individual.
(c)  The term "fraudulent voter registration" means any situation where an individual knowingly and intentionally takes steps to add ineligible individuals to voter lists.
(d)  The term "fraudulent voting" means the act of casting a non-provisional ballot or multiple ballots with knowledge that casting the ballot or ballots is illegal.
Sec. 5.  Administration.  The Commission shall hold public meetings and engage with Federal, State, and local officials, and election law experts, as necessary, to carry out its mission.  The Commission shall be informed by, and shall strive to avoid duplicating, the efforts of existing government entities.  The Commission shall have staff to provide support for its functions.
Sec. 6.  Termination.  The Commission shall terminate 30 days after it submits its report to the President.
Sec. 7.  General Provisions.  (a)  To the extent permitted by law, and subject to the availability of appropriations, the General Services Administration shall provide the Commission with such administrative services, funds, facilities, staff, equipment, and other support services as may be necessary to carry out its mission on a reimbursable basis.
(b)  Relevant executive departments and agencies shall endeavor to cooperate with the Commission.
(c)  Insofar as the Federal Advisory Committee Act, as amended (5 U.S.C. App.) (the "Act"), may apply to the Commission, any functions of the President under that Act, except for those in section 6 of the Act, shall be performed by the Administrator of General Services.
(d)  Members of the Commission shall serve without any additional compensation for their work on the Commission, but shall be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, to the extent permitted by law for persons serving intermittently in the Government service (5 U.S.C. 5701-5707).
e)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(f)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(g)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
DONALD J. TRUMP THE WHITE HOUSE, May 11, 2017.
Source The White House posted May 11th
https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/05/11/presidential-executive-order-establishment-presidential-advisory


For more national news headlines see page 2

UN NEWS CENTER: Spreading violence in Central African Republic sets off 'loud alarm bells' – UN human rights chief

From the UN NEWS CENTER:
Spreading violence in Central African Republic sets off 'loud alarm bells' – UN human rights chief
16 May 2017 – The United Nations human rights chief today expressed grave alarm over the spread of violence by armed groups against the civilian population in several parts of the Central African Republic in recent months, as well as attacks against UN peacekeepers in the country's southeast.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56760

Sexual violence in conflict ‘legitimate threat’ to peace and security – UN deputy chief
15 May 2017 – Although global understanding of sexual violence in conflict is shifting, there remains the need to tackle the root causes of such violations that lie in fundamental inequality and discrimination against women, Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed told the United Nations Security Council today.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56758

UN chief condemns DPR Korea’s ballistic missile launch
15 May 2017 – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres today urged Pyongyang to return to the path of denuclearization saying the latest ballistic missile launch by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) is a threat to peace and security in the region.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56757

Amid ‘dramatic’ climate changes, UN launches plan to step-up polar weather and sea-ice monitoring
15 May 2017 – With relatively little data available about the Earth’s Polar Regions – posing risks for people and the environment – the United Nations weather agency has kicked off of a two-year international effort to close gaps in polar forecasting capacity and to improve future environmental safety at the farthest reaches of the planet.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56755

At China's Belt and Road Forum, UN chief Guterres stresses shared development goals
14 May 2017 – Speaking at a major international conference in Beijing, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres today drew comparisons between China's 'One Belt, One Road' initiative and the Sustainable Development Goals, saying both are rooted in a shared vision for global development.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=56751

More world news and events on page 2

WA STATE COMMERCE DEPT: CDBG General Purpose Grants

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) General Purpose Grants are made available annually through a competitive application process to assist Washington State small cities, towns and counties in carrying out significant community and economic development projects that principally benefit low- and moderate-income persons. The Washington State CDBG Program is funded by the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
xamples of eligible General Purpose Grant activities include:

Public facilities, such as water, wastewater and streets
Community facilities, such as community centers, fire stations, homeless shelters and child care facilities
Economic development, such as microenterprise assistance and public infrastructure
Affordable housing and housing rehabilitation
ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES

Eligible applicants are Washington State cities and towns with less than 50,000 in population or counties with less than 200,000 population not participating in a CDBG Entitlement Urban County Consortium.
Special purpose districts, public housing authorities, port districts, community action agencies, economic development councils, other non-profit organizations, and Indian tribes are not eligible to apply directly to the state CDBG Program for funding, but may be a partner in projects and subrecipient of funding through eligible jurisdictions.
Projects must principally benefit low- and moderate-income persons, or aid in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight.
Local governments may submit only one application each annual funding cycle, unless one of the applications is for local micro-enterprise assistance.
http://www.commerce.wa.gov/serving-communities/current-opportunities/community-development-block-grants/cdbg-general-purpose-grants/




For more business and finace report see page 2

CITY OF PA TACKLES ETHICS TUESDAY

Ethics Ordinance
Background/Analysis:
The City’s Ethics Code was developed in 2012 as a policy that outlines, in part, the City’s behavioral expectations of elected and appointed officials. It established a “Code of Ethical Conduct,” adding a new Chapter to the Port Angeles Municipal Code. Prior to 2012, the City relied on State law, specifically Chapter 42.23 RCW, Code of Ethics for Municipal Officers.
Between February and May of 2016, four ethics complaints were filed, all alleging
Councilmembers had violated Section J of the Ethics Code. It should be noted that the complaints came during a controversial time for the Council. Unlike other boards and commissions that meet routinely and have established past practices, the Board of Ethics had never met. Council agreed that, once the complaint processes were complete, Council would review how the process worked and, if appropriate, make adjustments to the ordinance. ( see page G-1 in council packet for further details)

Other items on Tuesday's evening agenda include: 

Ordinance Proposing Adjustments to Medic 1 Utility Fee
AN ORDINANCE of the City of Port Angeles, Washington, amending Title
13, Chapter 13.73 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code relating to  Medic 1 utility rates Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Pump Station 7 Reconstruction Purchase Agreement & Sole Source Resolution ..
Summary: The Fire Chief made a presentation to Council at the May 2, 2017 meeting. An overview of the Fire Department staffing situation was delivered, and proposed rate adjustments to the Medic 1 utility were presented which would fund the addition of four Firefighter/Paramedics. After that presentation, some minor adjustments to the rates were made in order to address concerns that were brought up during the comment period. Those adjustments are reflected in the proposed ordinance

Capital Facilities Plan / Continue the Public Hearing / Conduct Second Reading / Approve Resolution .
Summary: The Capital Facilities Plan and Transportation Improvement Plan (CFP/TIP) are a required component of our Comprehensive Plan. In order to be eligible for some loans and grants the project must be listing in the City’s CFP.
Clallam County Economic Development Corporation – 2017 Contract On December 6, 2016 City Council approved the 2017 Budget with $5,000 allocated to Clallam County Economic Development Corporation (EDC). The City has been presented with the EDC’s standard contract for approval which is also utilized by other supporting government entities
See full city council agenda: http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/3890


Clallam County Work Session agenda highlight item (S) for Monday May 15th
EXECUTIVE SESSION - May 15 at 1:00 p.m.
The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has requested an Executive Session with the Board of Commissioners, the County Administrator, the Director of Community Development, the Director of Human Resources/Risk Department..  
The purpose of this session is to discuss with the Board of Commissioners the status of a lawsuit captioned as "Judy Lee v. Clallam County, Clallam County Board of Appeals."  The lawsuit is filed in Kitsap County Superior Court under #16-2-02354-3.  It is a challenge by a land use applicant to the December 15, 2016 decision of the County Board of Appeals regarding the proper building code to apply to the Lee application.  The lawsuit is a Petition under the Land Use Petition Act, Ch. 36.70C RCW asserting the December 15, 2016 decision is erroneous and should be overturned.  This matter is set for oral argument on the merits on June 19, 2017 before Judge Jeffrey Bassett in Kitsap County.
Discussing such matters in executive session is appropriate because public knowledge of the discussion would reveal the County’s legal strategies and likely result in an adverse legal or financial consequence to the agency.  RCW 42.30.110 (1)(i) expressly authorizes a governing body to convene an executive session for the above-described purposes, specifically actual litigation against the County.
The Board may recess into Executive Session to consider employment or dismissal of personnel, to review the performance of a public employee, to consult with legal counsel, to consider the position to be taken in collective bargaining, to consider acquisition or sale of real estate, or other matters per RCW 42.30.110
Details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=41&meta_id=9631

Agreement with City of Port Angeles for field tests of commercial HVAC efficient pumping system through retrofitting commercial HVAC pumping systems with integrated variable speed HVAC pumping system Participation Agreement with the City of Port Angeles on a BPA sponsored pilot program. This agreement will replace (1) Courthouse and (3) Juvenile facility motors with high efficiency motors and will be assessed for possible implementation in a region uride energy efficÍency program.
Details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=41&meta_id=9614

See full work session agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=41

County Commission regular session on Tuesday agenda items highlights

Agreement with Jamestown S’Kallam Tribe for restoration services for the Lower Dungeness River corridor on lands that are within the floodplain restoration project area
Jamestown SKlallam Tribe provides restoration services - planting, vegetation management, and other activities - for the lower Dungeness River corridor on lands that are within the floodplain restoration project area. The Interlocal Agreement continues work that has been done through a previous Interlocal Agreement (attached), outlines the work to be done, and the compensation for the work" The restoration services outline in the agreement are funded by Ecology's Floodplains by Design grant.
Details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=146&meta_id=9668

Letter of support for Pennies For Quarters for their efforts towards ending veterans homelessness
Executive Summary:
The Clallam County Commissioners recognize the sacrifices made for its citizens by the men and women that served in all branches of the Armed Forces. We further recognize that for various reasons there are tens of thousands of homeless veterans living Ín the United States, and that there are hundreds that have been documented living within Clallam County. The Board supports Pennies For Quarters in their efforts to end veteran homelessness in Clallam County.
Details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=146&meta_id=9666

Agreement with United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Olympic National Forest to perform noxious weed control activities
This is a request to enter into a participating agreement to perform noxious weed control activitíes on behalf of the USDA Forest Service.
Details: http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=146&meta_id=9670
See full agenda: http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=146


PORT OF PORT ANGELES AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEMS (Meeting is on Tuesday at 9:AM)

An excerpt of the letter drafted to Congressman Kilmer:

Proposed Letter to Representative Derek Kilmer
Dear Congressman Kilmer,
The Port of Port Angeles (Port) wants to express its support for your efforts to re-authorize the Secure Rural Schools Program. The Port appreciates you joining with Clallam County Commissioner Randy Johnson to co-author the March 27th editorial in the Peninsula Daily News. The editorial provided North Olympic Peninsula residents an excellent overview of the issue.
The federal government owns and manages much of the land base in this region. It is vital that our communities continue to receive federal support since these lands are exempt from property taxes which fund much of the services in this area. Reduced timber harvest on federal lands has contributed to the continuing importance of the Secure Rural Schools Program. As you know, 2015 was the last year the program was authorized. The hardships from the lack of funding continues to grow.
Thank you for co-sponsoring this important legislation.
Olympic Peninsula Timber Supply
The Port of Port Angeles’s responsibility under its enabling legislation is to promote economic prosperity for Clallam County. The forest products industry continues to play a vital role in the economy of the North Olympic Peninsula. However, past decisions on the management of federal and state lands have reduced the supply of timber on the Olympic Peninsula, with dramatic, and long-lasting impacts to our economy and communities. 
See full letter in the Port Commission meeting packet
http://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/05162017-242

Other highlighted items include:
Resolution 17-1149 Authorization of CERB Funding Application
BACKGROUND:
The Port is in the process of applying for funding under the State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) Committed Private Partner grant and loan program. This potential funding will be used to assist in improvements to the Port’s Multi-Tenant Industrial Building (MTIB) to support private business Airborne Environmental Control Systems (AECS). esolution 17-1149 Authorization of CERB Funding Application

Association of Washington Business Membership
BACKGROUND:
Formed in 1904, the Association of Washington Business is Washington’s oldest and largest statewide business association, and includes nearly 8,000 members representing 700,000 employees. AWB serves as both the state’s chamber of commerce and the manufacturing and technology association. 90 percent of AWB members employ fewer than 100 people and more than half of AWB’s members employ fewer than 10.
During the August 22, 2016 Commission Meeting joining the Association of Washington (AWB) Business was discussed and the Commission chose not to join AWB.  Resolution 17-1148 WSDOT Grant Application Airport Master

In other regional local meetings...
CLALLAM COUNTY PUBLIC UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 1
COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE FOR May 15, 2017
Commissioner Work Session
A Commissioner work session will begin at 1:30 p.m. and will be held in the Lake Crescent Boardroom at the District’s Main Office, located at 104 Hooker Road in Carlsborg. The purpose of the work session is for staff to present information related to activities towards meeting 2016/17 conservation targets, as mandated by the Energy Independence Act, as well as planning activities towards establishing a new target for 2018/19. The District’s INSPIRED solar incentive program will also be discussed.
https://www.clallampud.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Preagenda-May-15-2017.pdf

PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEMS
Ordinance 3172 Related to Short Term Rental of Property; Establishing Land Use Development Regulations; Establishing or Amending Business Tax and License Regulations; Establishing Initial and Ongoing Application Processes; Amending Lodging Tax Requirements; Amending Titles 3, 5 and 17 of the Port Townsend Municipal Code, and Lifting a Moratorium
Action: Move to approve Ordinance 3172 Related to Short Term Rental of Property; Establishing Land Use Development Regulations; Establishing or Amending Business Tax and License Regulations; Establishing Initial and Ongoing Application Processes; Amending Lodging Tax Requirements; Amending Titles 3, 5 and 17 of the Port Townsend Municipal Code, and Lifting a Moratorium.

Resolution 17-025 Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Partnership Agreement with the Port Townsend School District, Jefferson County Hospital District, Jefferson County, and the Olympic Peninsula YMCA for a Feasibility Determination Regarding Combined Use of the Mountain View Campus
Action: Move to approve Resolution 17-025 Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Partnership Agreement with the Port Townsend School District, Jefferson County Hospital District, Jefferson County, and the Olympic Peninsula YMCA for a Feasibility Determination Regarding Combined Use of the Mountain View Campus.

Resolution 17-026 Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Agreement with the Jefferson County Public Hospital District and Jefferson County to Implement the Community Health Improvement Plan Partnership
Action: Move to approve Resolution 17-026 Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Agreement with the Jefferson County Public Hospital District and Jefferson County to Implement the Community Health Improvement Plan Partnership.
See full agenda for further details: http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=1133


Jefferson County Commission agenda item Highlight items
AGREEMENT re: Appraisal Services to Support Land Acquisitions for the Purpose of Floodplain Restoration and Salmon Recovery; In the Amount Not to Exceed $20,000; Jefferson County Public Health; Epic Land Solutions, Inc
See full agenda: http://test.co.jefferson.wa.us/WebLinkExternal/0/edoc/1684439/A051517.pdf

OMC BOARD MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEMS
PET CT Imaging Agreement –Scott Kennedy, MD, CMO/Safety Officer
See full agenda: http://www.olympicmedical.org/pdfs/AGENDA%20-%20May%2017%202017.pdf

LOCAL NEWS STORY SPOTLIGHT
From the Forks Forum: QVP&RD Seeking Opportunity Funds
The Economic Development Corporation announces that the Clallam County Opportunity Fund Advisory Board will hold a board meeting from 10 – 11:30 a.m. Thursday, May 18, at the Lincoln Center, 905 West 9th Street, Port Angeles, Washington on the second floor in room 230.
http://www.forksforum.com/news/qvprd-seeking-opportunity-funds

DAILY DEVOTIONAL
Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.---Proverbs 31:30 NKJV

Learn English using the bible as text, lessons offered by WEI
http://www.worldenglishinstitute.org/
Free bible study offered by WBS
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/
Come join us in worship in the Port Angeles Church of Christ services start at 11:00AM
http://www.pacofc.org/