CONGRESSIONAL WATCH

Signs of bipartisan progress on climate change
From Congressman Kilmer's webpage
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 16/ 17

The House Climate Solutions Caucus was created in 2016 by Republican Rep. Carlos Curbelo and Democratic Rep.Ted Deutch. Both represent Florida. From the beginning, the Congressmen decided that membership in the caucus would come in pairs — one Republican and one Democrat at a time. Their aim is to create a bipartisan group to engage in constructive dialogue to propose climate solutions (“Leading on climate change,” Aug. 14). Recently, Rep. Ed Royce, a Republican from California, and Rep. Derek Kilmer, a Democrat from Washington, joined the caucus. The House Climate Solutions Caucus is now 52 members strong.The caucus recently introduced two legislative proposals: Technologies for Energy Security Act (H.R. 1090) and Climate Solutions Commission Act (H.R. 2326). The Technology Act extends tax credits to small scale wind and geothermal energy initiatives. The Commission Act would create a bipartisan panel to propose “economically viable actions or policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

Feds award money to boost quake warnings
From Congressman's Kilmer webpage
POSTED 8/ 16/ 17

SEATTLE (AP) — The U.S. Geological Survey has awarded $4.9 million to six universities and a nonprofit to help advance an early warning system for earthquakes along the West Coast. U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell and U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer of Washington state pushed for funding, saying such the early warning system is critical.

 Sen. Murray Applauds New Investment in West Coast Earthquake Early Warning System
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 14/ 17

(Washington, D.C.) –  Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) applauded an announcement from the U.S. Geological Survey that six universities, including two in Washington state, and one non-profit organization, have been awarded $4.9 million to advance production of an early earthquake warning system currently in development. Sen. Murray, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has consistently advocated for investments to complete and operate an earthquake early warning system on the West Coast to help prepare for and mitigate the human and economic impacts of a major seismic event in the Pacific Northwest. The “ShakeAlert” system, in the works for more than a decade, is designed to detect the first tremors of a major earthquake and provide users with anywhere from seconds to minutes of warning before an earthquake hits, which would provide crucial time for safety precautions.

“In the event of ‘the big one’, this alert system could prevent massive economic losses and save countless lives, so the time to get the technology in place is now, not later,” Sen. Murray said. “As a voice for our state in Congress, I will do everything I can at the federal level to make sure disaster preparedness investments come through so our universities can carry out this critical mission.”

 Cantwell: ‘A robust earthquake alert system could provide the needed time to save countless lives and secure property’
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 14/ 17

RICHLAND, WA – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) applauded the announcement that the United State Geological Survey has awarded more than $4.9 million to six universities, including the University of Washington (UW) and Central Washington University (CWU), to support transitioning the west coast “ShakeAlert” earthquake early warning system into a full-scale public alert system. Specifically, UW will receive $898,000 and CWU will receive $250,000.

Additionally, the USGS announced the purchase of about $1 million in new sensor equipment to expand and improve the ShakeAlert system.

Senator Cantwell has been a leading voice to expand earthquake preparedness and resiliency as well as tsunami detection. In 2016, Cantwell fought to increase funding to the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program for ShakeAlert.

“With millions of people living along the Cascadia fault, it’s critical we have early detections to help protect Washingtonians from potentially deadly earthquakes. A robust earthquake alert system could provide the needed time to save countless lives and secure property,” said Cantwell. “I applaud the Washington scientists, including those at the University of Washington and Central Washington University, who continue to lead the nation in research on this topic. I’ll continue to work to ensure that Washingtonians have the resources they need to best protect themselves from natural disasters.”

"The University of Washington, together with our university and USGS partners, will enthusiastically use the resources Congress has allocated to continue to build toward a public rollout of the ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning system for the U.S. West Coast. We are grateful to the Washington and Oregon senate and congressional delegations who have worked to support an increased funding level. This brings us halfway to the goal needed to operate and maintain the system. Our team is hard at work upgrading seismic instrumentation, data telemetry, and data processing facilities to ensure the highest-quality warning system possible," said Paul Bodin, research professor of seismology at University of Washington and network manager of Pacific Northwest Seismic Network.


An earthquake early warning system can give people a precious few seconds to stop what they are doing and take protective actions before the severe shaking waves from an earthquake arrive.  Under the new cooperative agreements, the USGS and its seven university and non-profit partners will collaborate to improve the ShakeAlert system’s sensor and telemetry infrastructure across the west coast of the United States. ShakeAlert is a new product of the USGS Advanced National Seismic System, a federation of national and regional earthquake monitoring networks throughout the country, including networks in southern California, northern California, Nevada, and the Pacific Northwest.

Cantwell has long fought to secure the needed resources to best protect Washingtonians from the natural disasters that impact the Pacific Northwest. In 2005, Cantwell successfully helped secure funding to strengthen the U.S. Tsunami Warning network, including funding to install 10 additional tsunami warning sirens in Washington state. Earlier this year, the President signed her Tsunami Warning, Education and Research Act into law, which made needed investments in State based preparedness programs such as inundation modeling, traffic studies, and improving scientific support for communities planning vertical evacuation infrastructure.

OUR PARKS AND FOREST

US DEPT. of INTERIOR:  Gulf of Mexico Region-Wide Oil and Gas Lease Sale Yields $121 Million in High Bids on 508,096 Acres
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 16/ 17

WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke today announced that the region-wide Gulf of Mexico lease sale generated $121,143,055 in high bids for 90 tracts covering 508,096 acres in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico. A total of 27 companies participated in the sale, submitting 99 bids totaling $137,006,181. The sale offered the largest amount of acreage in the history of the federal offshore program in the Gulf, including parcels offshore Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida.

“The path to American energy dominance starts in the Gulf, and the hard work of rig and platform workers, support staff onshore, and the industries that support them cannot go unnoticed,” said Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke. “Today’s results will help secure their jobs and create more good paying jobs while generating $121 million in revenue to fund everything from conservation to infrastructure.”

Lease Sale 249, livestreamed from New Orleans, is the first offshore sale under the National Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Leasing Program for 2017-2022. Under this program, nine additional region-wide lease sales that combine all three planning areas are scheduled for the Gulf, where resource potential and industry interest are high, and oil and gas infrastructure is well established.

On June 29, President Donald J. Trump and Secretary Zinke announced a public comment period for a new National OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program for years 2019-2024. The comment period is the first step in executing the new program. The 2017-2022 Program, which begins with the lease sale held today, will continue to be executed until the new National OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program is complete.

Lease Sale 249 offered approximately 76 million acres offshore Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida for oil and gas exploration and development. It included 14,220 unleased blocks, located from three to 231 miles offshore, in the Gulf’s Western, Central and Eastern planning areas in water depths ranging from nine to more than 11,115 feet (three to 3,400 meters). Excluded from the lease sale are blocks subject to the Congressional moratorium established by the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006; blocks that are adjacent to or beyond the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone in the area known as the northern portion of the Eastern Gap; and whole blocks and partial blocks within the current boundary of the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary.

"Today's lease sale is another important step in this Administration's strategy of responsible resource development and energy dominance,” said Vincent DeVito, Counselor for Energy Policy at Interior. “Investor response reflects our work making the Department of the Interior a better business partner and highlights the optimism in the results of this Administration."

The lease sale terms include stipulations to protect biologically sensitive resources, mitigate potential adverse effects on protected species, and avoid potential conflicts associated with oil and gas development in the region.

Additionally, BOEM has included appropriate fiscal terms that take into account market conditions and ensure taxpayers receive a fair return for use of the OCS. These terms include a 12.5 percent royalty rate for leases in less than 200 meters of water depth, and a royalty rate of 18.75 percent for all other leases issued pursuant to the sale. The 12.5 percent royalty rate for leases in less than 200 meters is lower than the proposed 18.75 percent royalty rate for shallow water leases that BOEM published in the Proposed Notice of Sale.

"Through regulatory streamlining, expanded offshore and onshore opportunities and great cooperation with our stakeholders, we expect to encourage competition while continuing to receive a fair and equitable return on oil and gas resources,” said Katharine MacGregor, Acting Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management.

The estimated amount of resources projected to be developed as a result of the region-wide lease sale ranges from approximately 0.21 to 1.12 billion barrels of oil and 0.55 to 4.42 trillion cubic feet of gas. Most of the activity (up to 83% of future production) of the proposed lease sale is expected to occur in the Central Planning Area.

As of August 1, 2017, 15.9 million acres on the U.S. OCS are under lease for oil and gas development (2994 active leases) and 4.3 million of those acres (870 leases) are producing oil and natural gas. More than 97 percent of these leases are in the Gulf of Mexico; about 3 percent are on the OCS off California and Alaska.

All terms and conditions for Gulf of Mexico Region-wide Sale 249 were detailed in the Final Notice of Sale (FNOS) information package and available at: http://www.boem.gov/Sale-249/.



US DEPT. of INTERIOR: Secretary Zinke Announces No Changes to Sand to Snow National Monument in California
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 16/ 17

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke announced that California’s Sand to Snow National Monument is no longer under review​ ​and that he will recommend no changes be made to the existing monument. The monument was under review in accordance with President Donald J. Trump’s April 26, 2017, executive order.

“Today, I am recommending that no changes be made to the Sand to Snow National Monument and that the Monument is no longer under official Department of the Interior review,” said Secretary Zinke. “The land of​ ​Sand to Snow National Monument is some of the most ​diverse terrain in the West, and the monument ​is home to incredible geographic, biologic, and archaeological history of our nation.”

Sand to Snow National Monument is located just east of Los Angeles in Southern California. The Monument was created by President Barack Obama in February of 2016, and encompasses 154,000 acres of land that is co-managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the United States Forest Service.


US DEPT. OF INTERIOR: Deputy Secretary Bernhardt Announces More Than $52 Million in Federal Funding To Bolster Tribal, State Wildlife Conservation Projects
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 15/ 17

WASHINGTON – U.S. Deputy Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt announced more than $52 million in funding to Native American tribes and state wildlife agencies through the Tribal Wildlife Grant (TWG) program and the State Wildlife Grants (SWG) program. The funds, which are provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, give support for a diverse array of species and habitats across the country.

Under the SWG program, more than $48 million will support species and habitats listed in approved state wildlife action plans. All 50 state and U.S. territorial wildlife agencies have these plans, which proactively protect species in greatest conservation need. Projects funded through SWG involve research, monitoring, wildlife surveys, species and habitat management and other activities.

More than $4 million in TWG funds to Native American and Alaska Native tribes in 14 states will support fish and wildlife conservation and key partnerships. The awards will benefit 25 projects that encompass a wide range of wildlife and habitats, including species of Native American cultural or traditional importance and species that are not hunted or fished.

“The Trump Administration is working hard with states and local communities to find solutions that are driven at the local level, rather than in Washington, D.C. As a hunter, I know the​ work of state wildlife agencies is absolutely critical to wildlife conservation in the United States,” said Deputy Secretary Bernhardt. “We're thrilled to be able to collaborate with them, their local communities, and other partners to ensure important fish, wildlife, habitat and cultural needs are met. Tribal and state wildlife grants are foundational to protecting our nation’s wildlife legacy, including game and non-game species.”

Examples of state projects funded with SWG grants include:

North Dakota -- Last year, the North Dakota Game and Fish Department completed a project with SWG funding that restored more than 200 acres of grassland habitat within a priority waterfowl production area. The project included seeding of a diverse mix of native grasses on existing croplands for a variety of tall-grass prairie bird species and other birds valued for public recreation. In addition to habitat creation, the state agency also used SWG funds with matching state dollars for monitoring vegetation species composition and structure and for conducting breeding bird surveys.

Georgia -- SWG awards have funded the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ efforts to conserve the sicklefin redhorse sucker, which was listed by the Service as a candidate species for Endangered Species Act protection in 2005. As a result of voluntary conservation efforts carried out by Georgia and North Carolina state agencies and partners—funded in large part through SWG along with other state monies—the Service determined in 2016 that listing the sicklefin redhorse sucker as an endangered or threatened species is not warranted.

Wyoming -- The Wyoming Game and Fish Department used SWG funds to assess the influence of cheat grass, an invasive plant, on small mammals and other species of greatest conservation need. The study, conducted in partnership with researchers at the University of Wyoming, found it is likely the increased risk small mammals perceive in cheat grass habitats reflects actual risk, with negative consequences for these species. This information helps biologists and land managers understand and address the effects of habitat alteration associated with cheat grass on sensitive species.

SWG funds are administered by the Service’s Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration (WSFR) program and are allocated to states and territories according to a congressionally mandated formula based on population and geographic area. Grant funds must be used to address conservation needs, such as research, wildlife surveys, species and habitat management, and monitoring identified within state wildlife action plans. The funds may also be used to update, revise or modify a state’s plan. Click here for the complete list of 2017 SWG apportionments. Learn more about SWG program accomplishments here.

The wide variation in the types of projects funded with TWG dollars is highlighted by this year’s awards: In Oklahoma, the Tonkawa Tribe of Oklahoma will receive $155,000 to support a bat conservation project, while in New Mexico, the Pueblo of Tesuque will receive nearly $200,000 for its Mule Deer Management and Habitat Enhancement Program. In Washington, the Puyallup Tribe of Indians will receive nearly $200,000 for habitat enhancement and population monitoring of the South Rainier elk herd. In North Carolina, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians will receive $200,000 to support implementation of their wildlife action plan. In Maine, the Penobscot Indian Nation will receive $200,000 to support Atlantic salmon and other fisheries management on tribal trust lands. A complete list of the 2017 Tribal Wildlife Grant awards can be found here.

TWG funds are provided exclusively to fund wildlife conservation by federally recognized Native American tribal governments, and are made possible under the Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2002 through the State and Tribal Wildlife Grants Program. Proposals for the 2018 grant cycle are due Sept. 1, 2017.

For additional information about Native American conservation projects and the Tribal Wildlife Grants application process, visit 


ON THE STATE LEVEL OUR PARKS AND FOREST

WDFW: Governor makes appointments to Fish and Wildlife Commission
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 15/ 17

OLYMPIA – Gov. Jay Inslee has appointed Don McIsaac, a recently retired director of a West Coast regional fishery management council, and reappointed Larry Carpenter to the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission.

The commission is a nine-member citizen panel that sets policy for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). Members are appointed by the governor to six-year terms and are subject to state Senate confirmation. Three members must reside in eastern Washington, three in western Washington, and three may live anywhere in the state. No two members may live in the same county.

The governor appointed McIsaac, who lives in rural Clark County, to a term ending Dec. 31, 2022. McIsaac served as the executive director of the Pacific Fishery Management Council from 2000 to 2016. The council oversees fisheries management in ocean waters three to 200 miles off the Pacific coast. He previously worked for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the then-Washington Department of Fisheries.

Inslee re-appointed Carpenter, of Mount Vernon, to a term ending Dec. 31, 2018. Carpenter, who was initially appointed to the commission in December of 2011, currently serves as vice-chair of the commission.

Special day celebrates the National Park System’s 101st birthday
PRESS RELEASE FROM WASH. PARKS dated 8/ 16/ 17

OLYMPIA – Aug. 16, 2017 – To celebrate the National Park System’s 101st birthday, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is offering free entrance to state parks on Friday, Aug. 25. Day-use visitors will not need a Discover Pass to visit state parks by vehicle.

State Parks free days are in keeping with 2011 legislation that created the Discover Pass, which costs $30 annually or $10 for a one-day permit. The pass is required for vehicle access to state recreation lands managed by Washington State Parks, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The Discover Pass legislation provided that State Parks could designate up to 12 “free days” when the pass would not be required to visit state parks. The free days apply only at state parks; the Discover Pass is still required on WDFW and DNR lands.



WORLD & NATIONAL NEWS BRIEFS

UN NEWS CENTER:
South Sudan refugees in Uganda exceed one million; UN renews appeal for help
17 August 2017 – As the number of refugees from South Sudan in Uganda passes one million – the vast majority of whom are women and children – the United Nations refugee agency today reiterated its call for urgent additional support.

Racism, xenophobia, anti-Semitism or Islamophobia are poisoning our societies' – UN chief
16 August 2017 – Urging people everywhere to speak out against hate speech and hate crimes, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres today reiterated his call for tolerance, respect for the other and the importance of recognizing diversity.

NATIONAL

WP: Trump calls efforts to remove statues of Civil War generals ‘foolish’
In three tweets, the president said the history and culture of the country was being "ripped apart" and said efforts to remove statues of Confederate generals Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee could escalate to taking down monuments to George Washington and Thomas Jefferson

WP: President’s lawyer jumps into racial controversy by forwarding inflammatory email
John Dowd forwarded an email advocating protection of some Confederate monuments and claiming that the protest group Black Lives Matter had been infiltrated by terrorists.



Daily Bible Verse: But “he who glories, let him glory in the Lord.” For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.
2 Corinthians 10:17-18 NKJV


 Free bible studies (WBS)
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http://www.worldenglishinstitute.org/

(Join us in worship every Sunday starting at 10:30AM Church of Christ)
http://www.pacofc.org/index.php



Editorial Note: Guess whose birthday!? Yes, readers yours truly, just turn 57 today, now I can safely say I'm rolling around like a 57 Chevy!

Birthdays is a good time to reflect on one's life. Where they are from, Where they are in life, and Where they are heading. I've been doing a lot of reflecting on my life to date. The mistakes, the triumphs, and things denied me because of my disability. Like never finding true love from a woman.
I know I shouldn't make mention these things on here, but then again this is my blog! Despite my misfortunes in life, it's my faith in the all mighty God that sees me through.

NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT

CONFLICT IN CHARLOTTESVILLE, ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF A NATION DIVIDED.

WH: Statements regarding tax reform, and the events in Charlottesville.
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED

THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  I’m in Washington today to meet with my economic team about trade policy and major tax cuts and reform.  We are renegotiating trade deals and making them good for the American worker.  And it's about time.

Our economy is now strong.  The stock market continues to hit record highs, unemployment is at a 16-year low, and businesses are more optimistic than ever before.  Companies are moving back to the United States and bringing many thousands of jobs with them.  We have already created over one million jobs since I took office.

We will be discussing economic issues in greater detail later this afternoon, but, based on the events that took place over the weekend in Charlottesville, Virginia, I would like to provide the nation with an update on the ongoing federal response to the horrific attack and violence that was witnessed by everyone.

I just met with FBI Director Christopher Wray and Attorney General Jeff Sessions.  The Department of Justice has opened a civil rights investigation into the deadly car attack that killed one innocent American and wounded 20 others.  To anyone who acted criminally in this weekend’s racist violence, you will be held fully accountable.  Justice will be delivered.
   
As I said on Saturday, we condemn in the strongest possible terms this egregious display of hatred, bigotry, and violence.  It has no place in America.

And as I have said many times before:  No matter the color of our skin, we all live under the same laws, we all salute the same great flag, and we are all made by the same almighty God.  We must love each other, show affection for each other, and unite together in condemnation of hatred, bigotry, and violence.  We must rediscover the bonds of love and loyalty that bring us together as Americans.

Racism is evil.  And those who cause violence in its name are criminals and thugs, including the KKK, neo-Nazis, white supremacists, and other hate groups that are repugnant to everything we hold dear as Americans.

We are a nation founded on the truth that all of us are created equal.  We are equal in the eyes of our Creator.  We are equal under the law.  And we are equal under our Constitution.  Those who spread violence in the name of bigotry strike at the very core of America.
   
Two days ago, a young American woman, Heather Heyer, was tragically killed.  Her death fills us with grief, and we send her family our thoughts, our prayers, and our love.

We also mourn the two Virginia state troopers who died in service to their community, their commonwealth, and their country.  Troopers Jay Cullen and Burke Bates exemplify the very best of America, and our hearts go out to their families, their friends, and every member of American law enforcement.
These three fallen Americans embody the goodness and decency of our nation.  In times such as these, America has always shown its true character:  responding to hate with love, division with unity, and violence with an unwavering resolve for justice.
As a candidate, I promised to restore law and order to our country, and our federal law enforcement agencies are following through on that pledge.  We will spare no resource in fighting so that every American child can grow up free from violence and fear.  We will defend and protect the sacred rights of all Americans, and we will work together so that every citizen in this blessed land is free to follow their dreams in their hearts, and to express the love and joy in their souls.
 Thank you.  God bless you.  And God bless America.  Thank you very much.

RESPONSE FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO WASHINGTON DC

Following Events in Charlottesville, Cantwell and 11 Senators Renew Call for Federal Response to Hate Crimes
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 15/ 17

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), joined by 11 of her Senate colleagues, sent a letter to Attorney General Jeff Sessions urging him to create an inter-agency task force to halt and reverse the tragic increase in hate crimes that has stricken the United States. The senators’ call for action is made all the more urgent by the recent outburst of violent racism and domestic terrorist activity by white supremacist organizations and individuals in Charlottesville, Virginia.

In April, Senator Cantwell led a similar group of her colleagues to send a letter to President Trump asking for the task force. The letter has not been answered by the Administration. The Department of Justice has created a subcommittee on hate crimes in response to the April letter, but that subcommittee’s scope has never been defined and lacks the power sufficient to address the rise of hate crime in the United States.

The letter notes that hate crime incidents had increased from 5,479 in 2014 to 5,850 in 2015, an rise of seven percent.  The Southern Poverty Law Center found that the number of hate groups operating in the U.S. rose to 917 in 2016, an increase of 25 from 2015. In particular, anti-Muslim hate groups almost tripled in 2016.

“President Trump’s reluctance to quickly and directly condemn the hate, bigotry, and racism of the white supremacists and members of the Ku Klux Klan that gathered at Charlottesville was deeply alarming to us and to millions of Americans,” wrote the senators. “In light of the horrific attack and hatred demonstrated this weekend in Charlottesville, we urge you to act quickly to address the alarming rise of hate in our country.”

In addition to the formation of the task force, the senators’ letter urged the Attorney General to devote more resources from his department to supporting states and local communities in addressing the root causes of hate through education, community development, and cross-cultural exchanges.

Senators joining Cantwell in signing the letter are: Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Bob Casey (D-PA), and Mark Warner (D-VA).


Sen. Murray Issues Statement Regarding President’s Comments on Charlottesville Violence
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 15/ 17
“There is only one side. White supremacists, KKK, neo-Nazis, & hate groups have no place in our country. The President needs to say that.”



COMMENTS ON THE STATE LEVEL

Inslee statement on violence in Charlottesville, Va. (In case you missed it)
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 12/ 17

"No American can ignore the disgusting hate and violence we’ve seen in Charlottesville over the last two days.
"Trudi and I hold the victims of today’s attack in our thoughts, and we know that all Washingtonians who believe in freedom, peace, and justice for all will do the same.
"It is on all of us, from me, to you, and all the way to the President, to denounce and decry the horror we’ve seen today in Virginia.
"But speaking out against this hate is not enough. Our actions as a nation in response to racist, nationalist bigotry will speak louder.
"We can not let anyone stoke racism for political gain. We can’t ignore an attack on our people. And we will not tolerate hate in any form, anywhere, in the United States of America."

MILKING THE SYSTEM

DOJ: Owner of Home Health Agency Sentenced to 75 Years in Prison for Involvement in $13 Million Medicare Fraud Conspiracy
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 11/ 17

The owner and director of nursing of a Houston home health agency was sentenced today to 75 years in prison for her role in a $13 million Medicare fraud scheme.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Abe Martinez of the Southern District of Texas, Special Agent in Charge Perrye K. Turner of the FBI’s Houston Field Office, Special Agent in Charge C.J. Porter of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Dallas Region and Special Agent in Charge D. Richard Goss of the Houston Field Office of IRS-Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI) made the announcement.

Marie Neba, 53, of Sugarland, Texas, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Melinda Harmon of the Southern District of Texas.  In November 2016, Neba was convicted after a two-week jury trial of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, three counts of health care fraud, one count of conspiracy to pay and receive health care kickbacks, one count of payment and receipt of health care kickbacks, one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments and one count of making health care false statements.

According to the evidence presented at trial, from February 2006 through June 2015, Neba and others conspired to defraud Medicare by submitting over $10 million in false and fraudulent claims for home health services to Medicare through Fiango Home Healthcare Inc., owned by Neba and her husband, Ebong Tilong, 53, also of Sugarland, Texas.  The trial evidence showed that using the money that Medicare paid for such fraudulent claims, Neba paid illegal kickbacks to patient recruiters for referring Medicare beneficiaries to Fiango for home health services.  Neba also paid illegal kickbacks to Medicare beneficiaries for allowing Fiango to bill Medicare using beneficiaries’ Medicare information for home health services that were not medically necessary or not provided, the evidence showed.  Neba falsified medical records to make it appear as though the Medicare beneficiaries qualified for and received home health services.  Neba also attempted to suborn perjury from a co-defendant in the federal courthouse, the evidence showed.

According to the evidence presented at trial, from February 2006 to June 2015, Neba received more than $13 million from Medicare for home health services that were not medically necessary or not provided to Medicare beneficiaries.

To date, four others have pleaded guilty based on their roles in the fraudulent scheme at Fiango.  Nirmal Mazumdar, M.D., the former medical director of Fiango, pleaded guilty to a scheme to commit health care fraud for his role at Fiango.  Daisy Carter and Connie Ray Island, two patient recruiters for Fiango, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud for their roles at Fiango.  On August 11, Island was sentenced to 33 months in prison.  Mazumdar and Carter are awaiting sentencing.  After the first week of trial, Tilong pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud, three counts of healthcare fraud, one count of conspiracy to pay and receive healthcare kickbacks, three counts of payment and receipt of healthcare kickbacks, and one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments.  Tilong is scheduled to be sentenced on October 13.

The case was investigated by the IRS-CI, FBI and HHS-OIG under the supervision of the Fraud Section of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas.  The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney William S.W. Chang and Senior Trial Attorney Jonathan T. Baum of the Fraud Section.

The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country.  The Medicare Fraud Strike Force operates in nine locations nationwide.  Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force has charged over 3,500 defendants who collectively have falsely billed the Medicare program for over $12.5 billion.


DOJ: North Carolina Resident Pleads Guilty to Tax and Bankruptcy Fraud Concealed Assets to Evade IRS Collection Efforts
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 15/ 17

A Greensboro, North Carolina, resident pleaded guilty to corruptly endeavoring to obstruct and impede the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), filing a fraudulent tax return and bankruptcy fraud, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Hairston for the Middle District of North Carolina.

According to documents and information provided to the court, during 2008 and 2009, Hassie Demond Nowlin, aka Demond Nowlin and Brilliant Knowlin, 44, filed several fraudulent tax returns with the IRS that included fake income and withholding taxes and sought more than $750,000 in fraudulent refunds. Nowlin also filed documents with the Guilford County Register of Deeds purporting to renounce his United States citizenship and proclaiming to be a sovereign citizen. Between 2008 and 2010, the IRS assessed taxes, penalties and interest against Nowlin related to the fraudulent returns. After being notified of the assessments, Nowlin began concealing his assets and placing them in the names of nominee entities.

Nowlin also admitted that between 2011 and 2017, he earned hundreds of thousands of dollars operating a tax preparation business. Nowlin filed hundreds of tax returns for clients that claimed phony business and education expenses, sought refunds to which the clients were not entitled and did not identify him as the paid preparer. Nowlin caused the fees to be deposited into nominee bank accounts that he controlled. Nowlin also admitted that he made false statements to IRS agents, including that he did not prepare tax returns for clients.

In addition to the tax-related charges, Nowlin also admitted to attempting to cheat his creditors by filing fraudulent personal bankruptcy petitions. Along with these petitions, Nowlin also submitted false financial statements on which he did not fully disclose his income and assets.

Nowlin is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 16, 2017 before U.S. District Court Judge Catherine C. Eagles. He faces a statutory maximum sentence of three years in prison for impeding the IRS and filing a fraudulent return and five years in prison for bankruptcy fraud. In addition, Nowlin faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties.

Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg and Acting U.S. Attorney Hairston commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Robert J. Boudreau of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Anand P. Ramaswamy of the Middle District of North Carolina, who are prosecuting the case.



DOJ: Virginia Business Owners Charged with Tax Evasion
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 14/ 17

A federal grand jury in the Western District of Virginia returned an indictment charging two business owners with tax evasion and conspiring to structure currency transactions, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division.

According to the indictment, Jeffrey and Karen Dalton owned Blue Ridge Stainless Inc. (BRS), a subcontracting business that provided labor to renovate large retail department and grocery stores, and operated it out of their home in Hillsville, Virginia. The Daltons allegedly filed their 2009 through 2014 personal tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reporting the income they earned from BRS, but failed to pay the taxes, penalties and interest owed. The indictment alleges that despite an IRS revenue officer repeatedly contacting the Daltons over a period of years about their delinquent taxes and pending IRS liens, they refused to pay their outstanding tax liability, used nominees to conceal their ownership of property and filed false documents with the IRS. After the IRS levied the Dalton’s personal bank accounts, they allegedly used funds from the BRS business bank account to start a cattle business and pay for their children’s wedding expenses.

The indictment also charges Jeffery and Karen Dalton with conspiring to withdraw cash from the BRS business bank account, in increments less than $10,000, to evade federal bank-reporting requirements. According to the indictment, they withdrew more than $250,000 in this piecemeal fashion.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

If convicted, Jeffery and Karen Dalton each face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison on both the tax evasion and conspiracy charge. They also face a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg thanked special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Daniel McGraw and Sean Beaty of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting the case.


FROM THE FBI FILES: Financial Fraud, Lengthy Prison Term for Estate Planner Who Betrayed Clients
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 15/ 17

Julie Kronhaus was a well-regarded estate planner with impressive training and credentials. She was a licensed attorney, a certified public accountant, and had earned a master’s degree in taxation. Unfortunately, she was also home-schooled in fraud.

Between 2009 and 2015, according to court records, Kronhaus defrauded clients and banks out of approximately $2.7 million. The Florida resident often acted as a trustee for her clients and held their money in bank accounts she controlled. With that access, she diverted money into her law firm’s bank accounts and used it to afford a lavish lifestyle that included clothes-buying sprees and regular trips to New York and Europe.

“She loved to spend money and live extravagantly,” said Special Agent Samantha Medico, who investigated the case from the FBI’s Tampa Division. “At one point she had racked up a $1.5 million balance on her American Express card.”



The scam worked for so long in part because of the faith placed in Kronhaus by her clients. “When people in the Orlando area and even out of state asked about the best people to handle estates,” Medico said, “her name would often come up. She had a good reputation and a good client base.”

Medico, a veteran white-collar crime investigator, explained that clients would typically seek out Kronhaus “at a low point in their lives, often involving a death in the family. They would trust her to handle all the estate matters. She would prepare wills and was supposed to distribute money according to those wills,” Medico said. “She had a fiduciary responsibility to protect her clients’ assets, and she didn’t do that.”

One of her victims was a child who had been awarded a settlement as the result of a medical malpractice suit. The judge in the case ordered a third party—Kronhaus—to act as the child’s financial trustee. “She had complete access and control of the account,” Medico said, “and either failed to pay the child’s mother for mounting medical expenses or stalled making payments.”

One out-of-state victim, himself a lawyer, became suspicious of Kronhaus’ actions regarding his accounts and contacted law enforcement. Investigators eventually subpoenaed bank records in that case, which revealed an extensive fraud that ultimately led to more than a dozen victims. “We kept finding victim after victim,” Medico said. “If Kronhaus was short in one account she took money from another account to cover payments. And she was preparing false statements to cover her tracks.”

In 2016, Kronhaus was arrested and charged federally with wire and bank fraud. In January 2017, the 52-year-old pleaded guilty to the charges, and last month a judge sentenced her to 10 years in prison and ordered her to pay nearly $3 million in restitution to her victims.

“In many ways, this was a typical fraud case,” Medico said. “Except that I have never seen someone so educated and with so much opportunity who committed this type of fraud. Kronhaus already had money,” Medico said. “That was the toughest part to comprehend. She had so much to begin with. Why would she do something like this? It was just greed. She did it because she could.”





WORLD & NATIONAL NEWS BRIEFS

UN NEWS CENTER:
As tensions on Korean Peninsula grow, UN chief urges world to 'dial up' diplomacy
16 August 2017 – Addressing the growing tensions on the Korean Peninsula, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres today said it was important “to dial down rhetoric and dial up diplomacy.”

UN observers conclude FARC-EP arms removal process in Colombia
16 August 2017 – More than 8,000 weapons and over one million burned cartridges were transported to a central warehouse in Colombia as the United Nations political mission in the country concluded the process of the laying down of individual weapons of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC-EP) combatants.

NATIONAL

NY DAILY NEWS: Both Bush Presidents, McConnell horrified by Trump’s Charlottesville response: ‘There are no good neo-Nazis’
The only two living Republican ex-Presidents joined a growing chorus of conservatives criticizing President Trump’s Charlottesville response and denouncing extremism.

WASHINGTON TIMES: Chicago pastor urges mayor to remove George Washington statue, rename park over slavery
President Trump’s question to reporters on Tuesday about the possibility of tearing down historical monuments has been answered by a Chicago pastor: “It’s time.”

Daily Bible Verse: Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

2 Corinthians 7:1 NKJV 

 

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WORLD NEWS AND EVENTS SPOTLIGHT

UN PRESS RELEASE: Security Council Resolution 1540 (2004) Points of Contact Training for States of Asia-Pacific Region
RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 14/ 17

From 7 until 11 August 2017, in cooperation with the United Nations Committee established pursuant to resolution 1540 (2004), China hosted a training course in Xi’an for 1540 national Points of Contact in the Asia-Pacific region.

This is the second time the Government of China hosted a 1540 training course and overall the fourth training course of its kind. The first training course was held in Qingdao in September 2015, also for States in the Asia-Pacific region.  That course was followed by training courses in 2016 in the Russian Federation, for the States of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and in Chile, for States of the Latin America and Caribbean region.

The course opened on 7 August 2017 with a welcome address by Mr. Shen Jian, Counsellor, Arms Control and Disarmament Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  Mr. Shen welcomed participants and among other things he renewed China’s commitment in supporting the implementation of resolution 1540 (2004), including in the Asia-Pacific region.  The Committee Chair, Ambassador Sacha Sergio Llorentty Soliz (Plurinational State of Bolivia) sent a video message during which he reminded the participants of “The potentially devastating effects of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons proliferating to non-State actors, including terrorists” …and that “…, no State is exempt from making every effort to prevent such proliferation from happening”.  He also highlighted the cooperative nature of resolution 1540 (2004) to prevent non-State actors from gaining access to those weapons of mass destruction, and stressed that cooperation between States is essential to address the issue at a global level.

The course was conducted with instruction by members of the Committee’s Group of Experts and representatives of international and regional organizations, including the Asia-Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

The course focused on the obligations for States under resolution 1540 (2004) and issues related to current risks of the proliferation of nuclear chemical and biological weapons to non-State actors, as well as links with other relevant international non-proliferation and counter-terrorism instruments.

Participants included national Points of Contact and representatives from Afghanistan, Australia, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vanuatu and Viet Nam.

The course was an excellent opportunity for 1540 Points of Contact from 17 States to deepen their understanding of resolution 1540 (2004) and to exchange their national implementation experiences with their peers.

Resolution 1540 (2004) was adopted unanimously by the Security Council, under the United Nations Charter’s Chapter VII, on 28 April 2004. It obliges all States to refrain from providing any form of support to non-State actors attempting to develop, acquire, manufacture, possess, transport, transfer or use nuclear, chemical or biological weapons and their means of delivery.  The resolution requires all States to establish domestic controls to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, including by establishing appropriate controls over related materials.

Effective implementation requires constant attention.  National Points of Contact play an important role in this regard as members of a “living network” that not only connects with the Committee and its supporting Group of Experts, but also with each other when it comes to the effective implementation of the obligations of resolution 1540 (2004).  On 15 December 2016, the Security Council adopted unanimously resolution 2325 (2016) that reaffirms and reinforces the obligations of the resolution adopted 12 years earlier.  In resolution 2325 (2016) the Security Council urged the Committee to continue to undertake initiatives to strengthen the capacity of such Points of Contact to assist in the implementation of the resolution, including through the continuation, on a regional basis, of the Committee’s Point of Contact Training Programme.




US MISSION TO THE UN: Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Peace and Security in Africa
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 15/ 17

Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you, Assistant Secretary-General Wane, for this important update.

Countering violent extremism and terror across the globe is hugely important for us all. As others have noted this morning, the recent attacks in Burkina Faso and Mali clearly serve to drive this point home. The United States understands the seriousness of the threats in the Sahel region, and we were proud to extend a strong message of support from the Security Council to the G5 Sahel Joint Force, a noble and important regional effort, in UN Security Council Resolution 2359 in June. We also recognize the fundamental importance of achieving political solutions to long-lasting conflicts to better guarantee peace and security in the region, especially in Mali, where signatory parties are not keeping their end of the bargain.

We commend the G5 countries for their sacrifices in countering terrorism in the Sahel, and we thank France for its continued leadership on this vital work and for its own sacrifices. We believe that deepened cooperation among the G5 countries has the potential to improve their security and complement the efforts of the peacekeeping mission in Mali. Toward that end, the United States will continue its longstanding bilateral support to develop and build the capacity of G5 members’ security forces. We will work closely with our partners to find ways to help the G5 force be effective, well-coordinated with other counterterror efforts in the region, and ultimately sustainable.

The United States is eager for opportunities to further coordinate with other donors and the Sahel countries. We look forward to the organization of a donors’ planning conference, where we hope to identify, coordinate, and synchronize assistance to operationalize the force. We believe this approach will achieve greater security – and ultimately the freedom from terror – that the people of the region seek. The United States will continue to work closely with regional stakeholders and partners to make sure the combined international response to this threat is the right response.
In closing, let me reiterate our strong support for the undertaking of the G5 countries. We will continue to stand with you.
Thank you, Mr. President.




UN PRESS RELEASE: Holistic Solutions in Addressing Gender-Based Violence Key to Tackling Multiple Crises in Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, Security Council Told
RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 10/ 17

Sexual Crimes ‘No Longer in the Shadows’, Says Bolivia, As Deputy Secretary-General Briefs on Bid to Drive Women, Peace, Security Agenda
Donors, neighbouring countries and other partners must invest in holistic solutions to the multiple crises faced by Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo — and felt disproportionately by women and girls — the Security Council heard today as it was briefed on a unique joint mission to the region.

Amina J. Mohammed, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General and one of four women leading the recent African Union-United Nations mission to Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, described the 19-27 July visit as “the first of its kind” — a high-level mission focused entirely on women, peace and security.  She was joined by the Executive Director of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN-Women), the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict and the African Union Commission’s Special Envoy on Women, Peace and Security, she said, adding that, besides meeting with Heads of State and other officials, they had spent most of their time with the women and girls most affected by conflict.

“We were four African women, from two organizations, visiting two countries, with one goal:  advancing peace by advancing the equality, empowerment and well‑being of women,” she said.  Both Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo suffered dismayingly low levels of political participation by women and were experiencing conflicts marked by high levels of sexual and gender-based violence.  Noting that both countries also faced grave humanitarian crises, she called upon donors to bridge funding gaps and went on to outline some of the complexities on the ground.  In northern Nigeria, for example — where 1.9 million people had been displaced and 8.5 million were in need of assistance — abductions, forced marriage and the use of women as suicide bombers had taken a terrible toll.  Sexual exploitation in the camps — including the “sex-for-food” variant — was an alarming new trend, while, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, both State and non‑State armed actors continued to perpetrate violence.

Emphasizing that the joint mission had been intended to “put life into” Council resolutions on women, peace and security, she said “we’re working to change the narrative” as the mission represented a new effort to address the most vulnerable segments of the population.  Going forward, such missions would be conducted not just in Africa, but in many regions.  Noting that the distribution of food in camps for displaced persons should be carried out by women, not men, she urged the United Nations to take real action to impact people’s lives.

Tété António, Permanent Observer for the African Union, said the “solidarity mission” had enabled the African Union and the United Nations to better assess the positive role that women could play in advancing peace, security and development.  Emphasizing the need to support the social and economic empowerment of women in order to prevent marginalization that could lead to exclusion and radicalization, he added that more joint humanitarian assistance was needed in conflict-affected regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  Citing some of the mission’s recommendations, he stressed the need for a greater focus on enabling the return and empowerment of the internally displaced, as well as refugees and on stabilizing countries facing peace and security changes.

Bolivia’s representative, speaking as Council members took the floor, said “this trip could be the first of many” of its kind, not only in Africa, but around the world.  The crime of conflict-related sexual violence — one of the most inhumane possible — was no longer being perpetrated in the shadows, and now was the time for the international community to tackle it at both the global and national levels.  Noting that the violent extremism perpetrated by Boko Haram in Nigeria was leaving deep scars in the country’s female population, he warned against any attempts to legitimize profits obtained through forced prostitution or allow the use of tax havens by terrorists.  He also voiced concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, reports of sexual violence and cases of executions and arbitrary detentions.

The United Kingdom’s representative, meanwhile, said the mission had brought home to the Council the “horrific and disproportionate” impact of the conflicts in Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo on women and girls.  The reports coming out of the latter’s Kasaï region, in particular, “should make us all sick to our stomachs”, he said, pointing to rampant sexual and gender-based violence and the 400,000 children currently at risk of severe acute malnutrition.  “We need to break the cycle” of violence in both countries, he stressed, noting that the Governments bore the primary responsibility in that regard and must respect both human rights and humanitarian law in doing so.

Likewise, France’s representative said the violence in Kasai had reached an untenable level and urged the Congolese authorities to cooperate fully with the panel of experts that the Human Rights Council set up in June.  The Secretary-General must meanwhile establish a special inquiry to shed light on the death of two experts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo sanctions committee, she said.

Senegal’s representative said the mission’s composition, beyond just being symbolic, was an excellent example of cooperation between the United Nations and the African Union.  “This concerted model of action is undoubtedly one more step in implementing resolution 2242 (2015),” he said, referring to the text intended to improve the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security.  The joint mission had gathered critical information and convened important meetings with senior Government officials, as well as women and girls on the ground, which would enable the Council to bolster its work in support of that agenda, he said, adding that an African Union meeting to be held next month would provide another opportunity to follow up on it.

Nigeria’s representative described a range of national laws and programmes aimed at addressing the crises facing his country, including a revised action plan for the implementation of Council resolution 1325 (2000) and related resolutions, the establishment of a National Human Rights Commission and initiatives to re‑radicalize convicted terrorists and secure the release of the remaining abducted Chibok girls.  In addition, it had established on 5 August the Judicial Commission to investigate human rights abuses committed by military personnel in the country.  While the perpetrators of sexual violence must be held accountable, the State’s capacity to do so — and the prevalence of weak structures and institutions — must also be addressed.  “Dealing with the political economy of conflicts in a more holistic manner is crucial to finding potential remedies,” he said.

Also speaking were representatives of the United States, Russian Federation, Italy, Ethiopia, Ukraine, Uruguay, Japan, Sweden, Kazakhstan, China and Egypt.




US STATE DEPT. PRESS RELEASE: Remarks on the 2016 International Religious Freedom Annual Report
RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 15/ 17

SECRETARY TILLERSON: Morning, all. We are releasing today the 2016 International Religious Freedom Report. This report is a requirement pursuant to the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 – legislation that upholds religious freedom as a core American value under the Constitution’s First Amendment, as well as a universal human right. This law calls for the government to, quote, “[Stand] for liberty and [stand] with the persecuted, to use and implement appropriate tools in the United States foreign policy apparatus, including diplomatic, political, commercial, charitable, educational, and cultural channels, to promote respect for religious freedom by all governments and peoples.”
Almost 20 years after the law’s passage, conditions in many parts of the world are far from ideal. Religious persecution and intolerance remains far too prevalent. Almost 80 percent of the global population live with restrictions on or hostilities to limit their freedom of religion. Where religious freedom is not protected, we know that instability, human rights abuses, and violent extremism have a greater opportunity to take root.

We cannot ignore these conditions. The Trump administration has committed to addressing these conditions in part by advancing international religious freedom around the world. The State Department will continue to advocate on behalf of those seeking to live their lives according to their faith.

The release of the 2016 International Religious Freedom Report details the status of religious freedom in 199 countries and territories, and provides insights as to significant and growing challenges. Today I want to call out a few of the more egregious and troubling examples.

As we make progress in defeating ISIS and denying them their caliphate, their terrorist members have and continue to target multiple religions and ethnic groups for rape, kidnapping, enslavement, and even death.

To remove any ambiguity from previous statements or reports by the State Department, the crime of genocide requires three elements: specific acts with specific intent to destroy in whole or in part specific people, members of national, ethnic, racial, or religious groups. Specific act, specific intent, specific people.

Application of the law to the facts at hand leads to the conclusion ISIS is clearly responsible for genocide against Yezidis, Christians, and Shia Muslims in areas it controls or has controlled.

ISIS is also responsible for crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing directed at these same groups, and in some cases against Sunni Muslims, Kurds, and other minorities.

More recently, ISIS has claimed responsibility for attacks on Christian pilgrims and churches in Egypt.

The protection of these groups – and others subject to violent extremism – is a human rights priority for the Trump administration.

We will continue working with our regional partners to protect religious minority communities from terrorist attacks and to preserve their cultural heritage.

As the 2016 report indicates, many governments around the world use discriminatory laws to deny their citizens freedom of religion or belief.

In Iran, Baha’is, Christians, and other minorities are persecuted for their faith. Iran continues to sentence individuals to death under vague apostasy laws – 20 individuals were executed in 2016 on charges that included, quote, “waging war against God.” Members of the Baha’i community are in prison today simply for abiding by their beliefs.

We remain concerned about the state of religious freedom in Saudi Arabia. The government does not recognize the right of non-Muslims to practice their religion in public and applied criminal penalties, including prison sentences, lashings, and fines, for apostasy, atheism, blasphemy, and insulting the state’s interpretation of Islam. Of particular concern are attacks targeting Shia Muslims, and the continued pattern of social prejudice and discrimination against them. We urge Saudi Arabia to embrace greater degrees of religious freedom for all of its citizens.

In Turkey, authorities continued to limit the human rights of members of some religious minority groups, and some communities continue to experience protracted property disputes. Non-Sunni Muslims, such as Alevi Muslims, do not receive the same governmental protections as those enjoyed by recognized non-Muslim minorities and have faced discrimination and violence. Additionally, the United States continues to advocate for the release of Pastor Andrew Brunson, who has been wrongfully imprisoned in Turkey.

And in Bahrain, the government continued to question, detain, and arrest Shia clerics, community members, and opposition politicians. Members of the Shia community there continue to report ongoing discrimination in government employment, education, and the justice system. Bahrain must stop discriminating against the Shia communities.

In China, the government tortures, detains, and imprisons thousands for practicing their religious beliefs. Dozens of Falun Gong members have died in detention. Police – policies that restrict Uighur Muslims’ and Tibetan Buddhists’ religious expression and practice have increased.

Religious freedom is under attack in Pakistan, where more than two dozen are on death row or serving a life imprisonment for blasphemy. The government marginalizes Ahmadiyya Muslims, and refuses to recognize them as Muslim. It is my hope that the new prime minister and his government will promote interfaith harmony and protect the rights of religious minorities.

Finally, in Sudan the government arrests, detains, and intimidates clergy and church members. It denies permits for the construction of new churches and is closing or demolishing existing ones.
We encourage the Government of Sudan to engage concretely on the religious freedom action plan provided by the department last year.

Unfortunately, the list goes on.
No one should have to live in fear, worship in secret, or face discrimination because of his or her beliefs. As President Trump has said, we look forward to a day when, quote, “people of all faiths, Christians and Muslims and Jewish and Hindu, can follow their hearts and worship according to their conscience,” end quote.
The State Department will continue its efforts to make that a reality. Recently nominated Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, Governor Sam Brownback, will be the highest-ranking official ever to take up this important post. We look forward to his swift confirmation.
I thank my many colleagues at the department and overseas who contributed to this report, and specifically the Office of International Religious Freedom, including Senior Advisor on Global Justice Issues Pam Pryor, Special Advisor for Religious Minorities Knox Thames, and the previous ambassador-at-large, David Saperstein.
We look forward to working with Congress, and the administration, to continue America’s indispensable role as a champion of religious freedom the world over. Thank you very much.




US DEFENSE DEPT: U.S., Chinese Military Leaders Sign Agreement to Increase Communication
Blog posted on 8/ 15/ 17

BEIJING, Aug. 15, 2017 — The top military leaders of the United States and China signed an agreement here today that they said will improve communication between their militaries and reduce the chances of miscalculations.

Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Gen. Fang Fenghui of the Chinese army, chief of China's joint staff, signed the joint strategic dialogue mechanism at the Ba Yi, the People's Liberation Army headquarters. Dunford is visiting China to further military-to-military ties between the two Pacific powers.

Crisis Mitigation

The agreement is intended for crisis mitigation, U.S. Joint Staff officials said, noting that direct communication at the three-star level in the Pentagon and the Ba Yi will "enable us to communicate to reduce the risk of miscalculation." Army Lt. Gen. Richard D. Clarke, the Joint Staff's director for strategic plans and policy, will lead the effort for the American military. The first meeting to set up the framework is set for November.

These communications are especially crucial now, as the region and world are facing the dangers of a nuclear-armed North Korea, officials said.

The joint strategic dialogue mechanism grew out of diplomatic and security talks in Washington earlier this year. Those talks grew out of a Florida meeting between President Donald J. Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in April.

Difficult Issues

The mechanism is a concrete result of the military-to-military discussions the chairman is engaged in. Dunford will spend three days in China and will visit PLA units training, Fang said.

"To be honest, we have many difficult issues where we will not necessarily have the same perspectives," Dunford said at the opening of the military-to-military talks. "But from the meeting we had in Washington, D.C., and the meeting we just had, I know we share one thing: we share a commitment to work through these difficulties. With the guidance from our presidents and the areas of our cooperation, I know we will make progress over the next few days."

Need for Candor

But the two countries must make tangible progress, the chairman said. "As we start these meetings, having the framework for dealing with these difficult issues is different than making progress on them," he said. "I think our collective challenge is to sincerely and with candor attack these issues that we have to address."

The military-to-military contacts between the United States and China are important because there will always be some friction between the two countries, Dunford said, adding that military contacts will lessen the chances of a miscalculation.

The chairman stressed that lessening miscalculation is "the minimum standard" for military-to-military contacts. "We should also try to see areas to cooperate," he said.

MORE WORLD NEWS & NATIONAL BRIEFS...

UN NEWS CENTER: UN rights chief urges Kenyan leaders to act responsibly, avoid further violence
15 August 2017 – Calling on the Kenyan authorities to avoid violence, the United Nations human rights chief today urged the Government to make an immediate announcement that it will cooperate and ensure accountability for reported abuse by security forces which has led to deaths and injures, including among children.

UN NEWS CENTER: First of 33,000 Congolese refugees relocated to new settlement in Angola – UN agency
15 August 2017 – More than 1,500 Congolese refugees who have fled violence and ethnic tensions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have been relocated from reception centres in northern Angola to a newly established settlement, the United Nations refugee agency today said.

NATIONAL

BOSTON GLOBE: Days after Charlottesville violence, Trump tweets meme of CNN being run over
Just days after a man attending a white supremacist rally allegedly rammed a car into a crowd of protesters, killing one, President Trump retweeted a meme depicting a train running over a figure labeled “CNN.”
Editorial Comment: It's unseemly that a president would resort doing something so childish.

USA TODAY: FBI agents went undercover in Florida's capital for the 'biggest investigation in years'
TALLAHASSEE - Buff, bearded and handsome, Atlanta developer Mike Miller sat sipping a cocktail one afternoon last summer outside the spiffy Power Plant Cafe in the city’s new central park. Relaxed, with shirt collar open, he chatted up the head of the local community redevelopment agency, spinning his grand plans to redevelop a not-yet-gentrified block in the shadow of Florida’s Capitol.

Daily Bible Verse:  For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.--Romans 14:8 NKJV    

 

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Marching back to school...2017

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NASA: Day to Night and Back Again: Earth’s Ionosphere During the Total Solar Eclipse
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 10/ 18

On Aug. 21, 2017, the Moon will slide in front of the Sun and for a brief moment, day will melt into a dusky night. Moving across the country, the Moon’s shadow will block the Sun’s light, and weather permitting, those within the path of totality will be treated to a view of the Sun’s outer atmosphere, called the corona.
But the total solar eclipse will also have imperceptible effects, such as the sudden loss of extreme ultraviolet radiation from the Sun, which generates the ionized layer of Earth’s atmosphere, called the ionosphere. This ever-changing region grows and shrinks based on solar conditions, and is the focus of several NASA-funded science teams that will use the eclipse as a ready-made experiment, courtesy of nature.
NASA is taking advantage of the Aug. 21 eclipse by funding 11 ground-based science investigations across the United States. Three of these will look to the ionosphere in order to improve our understanding of the Sun’s relationship to this region, where satellites orbit and radio signals are reflected back toward the Earth.
“The eclipse turns off the ionosphere’s source of high-energy radiation,” said Bob Marshall, a space scientist at University of Colorado Boulder and principal investigator for one of the studies. “Without ionizing radiation, the ionosphere will relax, going from daytime conditions to nighttime conditions and then back again after the eclipse.”
Stretching from roughly 50 to 400 miles above Earth’s surface, the tenuous ionosphere is an electrified layer of the atmosphere that reacts to changes from both Earth below and space above. Such changes in the lower atmosphere or space weather can manifest as disruptions in the ionosphere that can interfere with communication and navigation signals.

“In our lifetime, this is the best eclipse to see,” said Greg Earle, an electrical and computer engineer at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia, who is leading another of the studies. “But we’ve also got a denser network of satellites, GPS and radio traffic than ever before. It’s the first time we’ll have such a wealth of information to study the effects of this eclipse; we’ll be drowning in data.”

Pinning down ionospheric dynamics can be tricky. “Compared to visible light, the Sun’s extreme ultraviolet output is highly variable,” said Phil Erickson, a principal investigator of a third study and space scientist at Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Haystack Observatory in Westford, Massachusetts. “That creates variability in ionospheric weather. Because our planet has a strong magnetic field, charged particles are also affected along magnetic field lines all over the planet — all of this means the ionosphere is complicated.”

But when totality hits on Aug. 21, scientists will know exactly how much solar radiation is blocked, the area of land it’s blocked over and for how long. Combined with measurements of the ionosphere during the eclipse, they’ll have information on both the solar input and corresponding ionosphere response, enabling them to study the mechanisms underlying ionospheric changes better than ever before.
Tying the three studies together is the use of automated communication or navigation signals to probe the ionosphere’s behavior during the eclipse. During typical day-night cycles, the concentration of charged atmospheric particles, or plasma, waxes and wanes with the Sun.

“In the daytime, ionospheric plasma is dense,” Earle said. “When the Sun sets, production goes away, charged particles recombine gradually through the night and density drops. During the eclipse, we’re expecting that process in a much shorter interval.”
The denser the plasma, the more likely these signals are to bump into charged particles along their way from the signal transmitter to receiver. These interactions refract, or bend, the path taken by the signals. In the eclipse-induced artificial night the scientists expect stronger signals, since the atmosphere and ionosphere will absorb less of the transmitted energy.

“If we set up a receiver somewhere, measurements at that location provide information on the part of the ionosphere between the transmitter and receiver,” Marshall said. “We use the receivers to monitor the phase and amplitude of the signal. When the signal wiggles up and down, that’s entirely produced by changes in the ionosphere.”

Using a range of different electromagnetic signals, each of the teams will send signals back and forth across the path of totality. By monitoring how their signals propagate from transmitter to receiver, they can map out changes in ionospheric density. The teams will also use these techniques to collect data before and after the eclipse, so they can compare the well-defined eclipse response to the region’s baseline behavior, allowing them to discern the eclipse-related effects.
The ionosphere is roughly divided into three regions in altitude based on what wavelength of solar radiation is absorbed: the D, E and F, with D being the lowermost region and F, the uppermost. In combination, the three experiment teams will study the entirety of the ionosphere.

Marshall and his team, from the University of Colorado Boulder, will probe the D-region’s response to the eclipse with very low frequency, or VLF, radio signals. This is the lowest and least dense part of the ionosphere — and because of that, the least understood.

“Just because the density is low, doesn’t mean it’s unimportant,” Marshall said. “The D-region has implications for communications systems actively used by many military, naval and engineering operations.”

Marshall’s team will take advantage of the U.S. Navy’s existing network of powerful VLF transmitters to examine the D-region’s response to changes in solar output. Radio wave transmissions sent from Lamoure, North Dakota, will be monitored at receiving stations across the eclipse path in Boulder, Colorado, and Bear Lake, Utah. They plan to combine their data with observations from several space-based missions, including NOAA’s Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory and NASA’s Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager, to characterize the effect of the Sun’s radiation on this particular region of the ionosphere.

Erickson and team will look further up, to the E- and F-regions of the ionosphere. Using over 6,000 ground-based GPS sensors alongside powerful radar systems at MIT’s Haystack Observatory and Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico, along with data from several NASA space-based missions, the MIT-based team will also work with citizen radio scientists who will send radio signals back and forth over long distances across the path.

MIT’s science team will use their data to track travelling ionospheric disturbances — which are sometimes responsible for space weather patterns in the upper atmosphere — and their large-scale effects. These disturbances in the ionosphere are often linked to a phenomenon known as atmospheric gravity waves, which can also be triggered by eclipses.

“We may even see global-scale effects,” Erickson said. “Earth’s magnetic field is like a wire that connects two different hemispheres together. Whenever electrical variations happen in one hemisphere, they show up in the other.”

Earle and his Virginia Tech-based team will station themselves across the country in Bend, Oregon; Holton, Kansas; and Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter, South Carolina. Using state-of-the-art transceiver instruments called ionosondes, they will measure the ionosphere’s height and density, and combine their measurements with data from a nation-wide GPS network and signals from the ham radio Reverse Beacon Network. The team will also utilize data from SuperDARN high frequency radars, two of which lie along the eclipse path in Christmas Valley, Oregon, and Hays, Kansas.

“We’re looking at the bottom side of the F-region, and how it changes during the eclipse,” Earle said. “This is the part of the ionosphere where changes in signal propagation are strong.” Their work could one day help mitigate disturbances to radio signal propagation, which can affect AM broadcasts, ham radio and GPS signals.

Ultimately, the scientists plan to use their data to improve models of ionospheric dynamics. With these unprecedented data sets, they hope to better our understanding of this perplexing region.

“Others have studied eclipses throughout the years, but with more instrumentation, we keep getting better at our ability to measure the ionosphere,” Erickson said. “It usually uncovers questions we never thought to ask.”



WASH. Sec. of State: Washington State Library to host Eclipse Event Aug. 21
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 14/ 17

OLYMPIA…For those who aren’t headed south for a total view of the solar eclipse on Aug. 21, the Washington State Library is offering an alternative to watch the rarely seen astronomical phenomenon much closer to home.

The State Library is hosting an Eclipse Event at its Tumwater location from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Aug. 21. The event, which is free to the public, will be held on the south side of the library building, located at 6880 Capitol Blvd. SE in Tumwater.  

“We invite everyone throughout the Olympia area to join us at our Eclipse Event on the 21st,” said State Librarian Cindy Aden. “This is a rare, amazing natural occurrence that the South Sound area won’t experience again until 2044, so we hope others will join us to observe and celebrate this incredible moment.”
The State Library will hand out 200 pairs of eclipse glasses on a first-come, first-served basis. A reflective projection area will be set up outside so that those who don’t receive the safety glasses can still watch and enjoy the eclipse. Because parking is very limited, people are asked to use public transportation to reach the library. Intercity Transit’s Bus #13 drops off passengers right outside the main library entrance.
A speaker from the Tacoma Astronomical Society will be on hand to talk about the science behind the eclipse and answer questions. People can use the special hashtag, #WSL_Eclipse, on social media posts to get in on the fun!
The Olympia area will experience about a 94 percent eclipse starting around 9:07 a.m. as the moon moves east. The optimal viewing time will be at 10:19 a.m. as the moon blocks nearly all of the sun. The eclipse will end around 11:38 a.m.        
The State Library has distributed nearly 4,000 eclipse glasses to 44 libraries across the state for safe viewing of the eclipse.



Secretary DeVos Announces Approval of Nevada, New Jersey and New Mexico's ESSA Plans
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 9/ 17

WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos today announced the approval of Nevada, New Jersey and New Mexico's respective consolidated state plans under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

"Throughout this approval process, it has been exciting to see how each state has chosen to serve its students through the flexibility afforded to them under ESSA," said Secretary DeVos. "Nevada, New Jersey and New Mexico's plans meet the statutory requirements of ESSA and these plans will provide a solid framework for educating students in ways that meet each individual state's needs."

"The efforts put into these plans by chief state school officers, governors and others is evident, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with each of them as we work to expand and improve educational opportunities for all students."
Allowing states more flexibility in how they deliver education to students is at the core of ESSA. Each state crafted a plan that it feels will best offer educational opportunities to meet the needs of the state and its students. The following are some of the unique elements from each state's approved plan as highlighted by each state:

Nevada
Creates pre-approved evidence-based intervention lists to streamline district identification, review and approval processes.
Implements strategies that will target rural districts that typically struggle to provide a wide variety of advanced course offerings and CTE courses to students, as well as urban schools with low participation rates of underrepresented subgroups.
Supports college and career readiness through a competitive grant process focused on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) for middle and high school students, an increase in AP enrollment and support for AP success and an increase and expansion of dual enrollment for students enrolled simultaneously in high school and college courses.

New Jersey
Implements the New Jersey Tiered System of Supports, which is an evidence-based framework for implementing academic and behavioral supports and interventions to improve achievement for all students.
Supports LEAs in offering greater opportunities for middle school students to enroll in advanced-level math coursework by designing, implementing and evaluating research-based technical support around math literacy; designing and disseminating guidance to LEAs on the use of Title I to support preparation for advanced math; and designing multiple, model course pathways for middle schools that allow eighth-grade students to complete Algebra I.
Aims for at least 80 percent of all students and at least 80 percent of each subgroup of students in each tested grade to meet or exceed grade-level expectations on the statewide ELA and mathematics assessments by 2030.

New Mexico
Provides clear measurements of interim progress and targets for all subgroups for ELA and math through 2020, including targets for all subgroups for four-, five- and six-year adjusted cohort graduation rates through 2020.
Utilizes an A-F "School Grades" accountability system, with grades tied to a school's identification for comprehensive support and improvement.
Implements the Principals Pursuing Excellence and Teachers Pursuing Excellence programs, which embed mentors for educators in struggling schools.

 WASH. STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION CALLS FOR SPECIAL MEETING AUG. 16th
Amara, Elephant Room 5907 Martin Luther King Jr. Way S
Seattle, WA 98118 August 16, 2017
Agenda highlight: Approval of Letter Regarding ESSA Plan Components Pursuant to Statutory Authority of the State Board of Education




WORLD & NATIONAL NEWS BRIEFS

NEWS FROM THE UN NEWS CENTER:
Amid soaring food insecurity in DR Congo, UN agencies call for food aid, supplies
14 August 2017 – More than one in ten people living in rural areas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are hungry due to escalating and prolonged conflict and displacement, United Nations agencies today reported, warning that the situation will worsen unless urgent support comes in time.

Yemen's cholera epidemic surpasses half-million suspected cases, UN agency says
14 August 2017 – More than 500,000 people in Yemen are suspected of having cholera, the United Nations health agency today said, warning that the disease is spreading quickly due to a lack of clean water or health access.

NATIONAL

AP: Trump speaks on Charlottesville: 'Racism is evil'
WASHINGTON (AP) — Under pressure all weekend, President Donald Trump on Monday named and condemned hate groups as "repugnant" and declared "racism is evil" in an updated, more forceful statement on the deadly, race-fueled clashes in Charlottesville, Virginia.

NYT: Heather Heyer, Charlottesville Victim, Is Recalled as ‘a Strong Woman’
Heather D. Heyer died standing up for what she believed in.
Friends described her as a passionate advocate for the disenfranchised who was often moved to tears by the world’s injustices. That sense of conviction led her to join demonstrators protesting a rally of white nationalists in Charlottesville, Va., on Saturday.


Reaction from Olympia on Charlotteville
Inslee statement on violence in Charlottesville, Va.
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 8/ 12/ 17

"No American can ignore the disgusting hate and violence we’ve seen in Charlottesville over the last two days.
"Trudi and I hold the victims of today’s attack in our thoughts, and we know that all Washingtonians who believe in freedom, peace, and justice for all will do the same.
"It is on all of us, from me, to you, and all the way to the President, to denounce and decry the horror we’ve seen today in Virginia.
"But speaking out against this hate is not enough. Our actions as a nation in response to racist, nationalist bigotry will speak louder.
"We can not let anyone stoke racism for political gain. We can’t ignore an attack on our people. And we will not tolerate hate in any form, anywhere, in the United States of America."

Daily Bible Verse:    [ The Lukewarm Church ] “And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.

Revelation 3:14,20 NKJV

 

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