GreenRubino to develop new tourism marketing plan for Washington state

Washington State Commerce Dept.
Press release issued 11/ 20/ 17
http://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/greenrubino-to-develop-new-tourism-marketing-plan-for-washington-state/

Reflecting a core principal of Commerce and the Washington Tourism Alliance, the marketing plan will strengthen rural and underserved communities as part of first state-funded tourism promotion plan in six years.

OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington State Department of Commerce, in collaboration with the Washington Tourism Alliance (WTA), has selected GreenRubino as the agency of record to develop and produce a new tourism marketing plan for the state.

Eleven firms from around the country competed for the contract, which will result in a proposed comprehensive plan for marketing the state locally, regionally, and nationally. The tourism marketing plan is slated for completion in March 2018. Commerce and the Washington Tourism Alliance will jointly oversee and guide the plan’s development. The plan is funded by an appropriation in the 2017-19 state operating budget and is intended to allow Commerce and the WTA to develop a plan that will be submitted to the legislature for consideration as a path forward for the state’s tourism effort.

Promoting the many natural, cultural, and recreational attractions in rural and underserved communities throughout the state will be a top priority for the plan, according to Robb Zerr, marketing director for the Department of Commerce.

“We look forward to working with the WTA and GreenRubino to deliver a proposal for a marketing plan that attracts visitors to every part of our amazing state, and also dials in on promoting rural communities where tourism can be an important economic driver,” Zerr said. “GreenRubino brings a lot of expertise to the project. Over the years, the agency has worked with a roster of tourism and hospitality clients, including other Washington state projects.”
“Tourism is Washington’s fourth-largest industry, bringing over $21 billion to our economy and providing 177,000 jobs,” said Mike Moe, managing director of the Washington Tourism Alliance. “However, since 2011 Washington’s tourism industry has had a competitive disadvantage with states like Oregon and Montana that spend $19-32 million a year to attract tourists. We are excited to work with GreenRubino to create a marketing plan that will serve as a road map once legislation is passed to fund the reestablishment of a statewide tourism marketing effort.”
“To say GreenRubino is excited about a renewed commitment for Washington State tourism is an understatement—we’re ecstatic,” said partner Cam Green. “This perfectly complements our tourism and hospitality marketing experience. The entire team is very proud of the work we created as the state’s tourism marketing agency from 2008 to 2011. We’re keenly aware of the enormous economic impact tourism has statewide and are thrilled to get working on the strategic statewide marketing plan.”
About the Washington Tourism Alliance
The Washington Tourism Alliance (WTA) is a 501 (c)(6) organization, established by industry stakeholders with the mission to advocate, promote, develop and sustain the economic well-being of the Washington tourism industry. For more information visit watourismalliance.com.

LABOR & INDUSTRIES:  Power lines and cranes a very dangerous mix — construction firm cited for putting workers at risk

Press release 11/ 20/ 17
http://lni.wa.gov/News/2017/pr171120a.asp

Tumwater – A Kirkland construction company is facing a large fine for workplace safety violations for operating a crane too close to high-voltage power lines without taking  proper safety precautions. Workers are hurt and killed every year when cranes come in contact with power lines. It’s a significant workplace safety issue, with very specific requirements that must be followed.
The Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) has cited Compass General Construction for two willful violations, the most serious, and one general violation. The company faces fines totaling $96,000.
The violations were discovered last May, just a few days after an L&I safety inspector visited the job site and went over the crane operation safety requirements with the site superintendent. At that time, there was a crane on site, but not near power lines.
A few days later, L&I received a referral from Seattle City Light that the crane was operating near the power line without the required safety precautions. L&I returned to the site and verified that the crane was operating near the power lines without a warning line, such as highly visible flagging or caution tape to keep the crane a safe distance away, or a dedicated spotter to alert the operator if he got too close.
As a result, Compass has been cited for one willful violation for not appointing a lift director to oversee the crane lifts and rigging crew. The company was cited for a second willful violation for not ensuring that power-line safety requirements were met, including having an elevated warning line a safe distance from the power lines, along with a dedicated spotter. Each violation carries a penalty of $48,000.
Both violations are considered “willful” because the L&I compliance officer went over the specific requirements with the site superintendent just three days earlier.
Cranes and power lines a known hazard
In September 2016, two employees of Spartan Concrete Inc., were severely injured and nearly killed while working near the same West Seattle power line when a high-voltage jolt of electricity traveled down a crane’s hoist line to the men below.
The dangers of cranes and overhead power lines are well known. There were nine deaths in Washington from crane contacts with power lines from 1999 to 2012, including a double fatality in 2010.
L&I issued an alert (Lni.wa.gov/safety/hazardalerts/CranesAndPowerlines.pdf) in 2012 warning companies of the deadly hazard after receiving reports of six power line contacts by cranes in just six months.
Company on severe violator list
Along with the two willful violations for the recent incident, Compass General Construction was cited for one general violation for not documenting that the rigging supervisor had passed the required tests showing he was qualified.
As a result of the willful violations, Compass has been placed on the severe violator list and will be subject to follow-up inspections to determine if the conditions still exist.
The company has appealed the violations.
Penalty money paid in connection with a citation is placed in the workers’ compensation supplemental pension fund, helping workers and families of those who have died on the job.

(page 2) WEEKLY AGRICULTURAL REPORT

NEWS FROM THE USDA: 

USDA Provides More Than $10 Million to Help Caribbean Area Farmers Recover Following Hurricanes
Press release issued 11/ 21/ 17
https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2017/11/21/usda-provides-more-10-million-help-caribbean-area-farmers-recover

SAN JUAN, P.R., November 21, 2017 – USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is providing $10.9 million in technical and financial assistance to help farmers in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands repair damage and rebuild following hurricanes Irma and María. This investment through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, a Farm Bill conservation program, is one more option available through USDA to aid with recovery.

“USDA remains committed to helping the people of Puerto Rican agriculture with every means at our disposal.   With this funding, we can assist local farmers in repairing damages to their land and existing conservation practices caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria,” said Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue.  “Through EQIP, we co-invest with farmers to repair and prevent soil erosion, address flooding and other water quality issues, as well as any other resource concerns resulting from high rainfall events and flooding.”

EQIP Funding for Emergency Assistance

To expedite disaster recovery, NRCS is issuing waivers allowing farmers to receive payment and begin implementing key conservation practices prior to contract approval. Practices can include the disposal of dead livestock, the construction of animal mortality facilities, replacement of roofs and covers on agricultural buildings and debris removal. Participants are asked to file an EQIP application and a waiver to start implementing a practice.
Meanwhile, farmers who have worked with NRCS previously are also eligible to get assistance to implement new conservation practices or repair failed practices.
NRCS accepts EQIP applications year-round in a continuous signup. But landowners must submit their applications by Jan. 19 to be considered for this disaster recovery funding.  Farmers and ranchers should visit with their local USDA service center to apply. Caribbean NRCS office listings and phone numbers can be found at www.pr.nrcs.usda.gov. Farmers may also call the Caribbean Area Disaster Recovery Bi-Lingual Hotline at 787-303-0341.

Disaster Recovery Assistance for Caribbean Communities
In addition to assistance to agricultural producers, NRCS is helping local communities repair dams and infrastructure impacted by the hurricanes. NRCS is providing $1.75 million to local governments and entities through the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) program to restore damaged and destroyed infrastructure. While EWP generally can pay up to 75 percent of the cost of emergency measures, in both Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, President Trump authorized 100 percent Federal cost for debris removal and emergency protective measures until March 2018.
Four NRCS teams spent the last five weeks in the Caribbean region conducting damage survey assessments to determine potential sites and sponsors for EWP projects. Through the program, NRCS works with local government entities in impacted areas to remove debris, stabilize streambanks and fix water control structures, among other practices.
Requests for assistance must be made within 60 days of the storm event.
More Information
Today’s announcement builds on investments USDA has made to support agricultural producers impacted by the hurricanes. USDA’s Farm Service Agency offers multiple programs in Puerto Rico and across the nation to help with disaster recovery, including compensation for livestock death and feed losses, risk coverage for specialty crops, and repair of damaged agricultural and private forest land.  Most recently, FSA added emergency assistance for dairies in Puerto Rico to help provide feed for their remaining cattle. USDA’s Risk Management Agency also offers several Federal crop insurance plans, helping producers overcome natural catastrophes.

USDA Scientists Honored as AAAS Fellows

Press release issued 11/ 21/ 17
https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2017/11/21/usda-scientists-honored-aaas-fellows

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2017 – Two USDA scientists have been honored as 2017 Fellows by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, who serves as Administrator for USDA’s Agriculture Research Service as well as Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics, and Dr. Autar K. Mattoo, an ARS plant physiologist, were named Fellows in a vote by the AAS Council in recognition of their contributions to science and technology, scientific leadership, and extraordinary achievements across disciplines.

AAAS has been awarding the Fellows distinction since 1874. Past honorees include inventor Thomas Edison, anthropologist Margaret Meade, and five of the 2017 Nobel Laureates. Along with other new AAAS Fellows, Dr. Jacobs-Young and Dr. Mattoo will be recognized at a Feb. 18 Fellows forum at the 2018 AAAS Annual Meeting in Austin, Texas.

Dr. Jacobs-Young has headed ARS, the USDA’s chief scientific in-house research agency, since February 2014 and previously served as ARS’ Associate Administrator for National Programs. Prior to her tenure at ARS, she served as the Director of the USDA Office of the Chief Scientist, as Acting Director for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, and as a senior policy analyst in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. A native of Georgia, she holds M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from North Carolina State University.

Dr. Mattoo is an ST Level senior scientist at the ARS’s Sustainable Agricultural Systems Laboratory in Beltsville, Md. Prior to returning to bench research in 2004, he served as a Research Leader for 16 years - nine years heading the Plant Molecular Biology Laboratory and seven years heading the Vegetable Laboratory at USDA-ARS. He specializes in Plant Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and his findings include the targeting of key genes in the fruit ripening process, and those in the polyamine biosynthetic pathway, to prolong the shelf life and increase the nutritive value of tomatoes. He received his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, India.

USDA BLOG: Five Tips So You Don’t Miss the Big Deals With Bad Black Friday Leftovers

Posted on 11/ 24/ 17
https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2017/11/24/five-tips-so-you-dont-miss-big-deals-bad-black-friday-leftovers

t’s the day after Thanksgiving and all through the streets, 154 million consumers are moving their feet. All aim to get the best deal of the day, whether flat screens, jewelry or a 4K Blu-ray.

But your next door neighbor missed all the cheap deals because his stomach was turning; it’s not made of steel. The Thanksgiving leftovers he went to devour were left on the table past 2 hours. The room-temperature food allowed bacteria to grow, entering his stomach as a terrible foe. A few simple steps could have saved him this fate, but now he must deal with a bad tummy ache. So we offer these five leftover tips to keep you from getting awfully sick. Follow these rules to keep your family healthy and let Black Friday sales keep your pockets wealthy.

Keep food out of the Danger Zone: Bacteria grow rapidly between the temperatures of 40°F and 140°F. That is what is referred to as the Danger Zone. Hot food must be kept hot at 140°F or warmer to prevent bacterial growth. Within 2 hours of cooking food or from keeping it warm in a slow cooker or chaffing dish, leftovers must be refrigerated. Throw away all perishable foods that have been left in room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Cool food quickly: To prevent bacterial growth, it's important to cool food rapidly so it reaches 40°F or below, which is the temperature of your refrigerator. To do this, divide large amounts of food into shallow containers. A 20-pound turkey, for example, will take a long time to cool, inviting bacteria to multiply and increasing the danger of foodborne illness. Instead, slice the turkey and place into shallow containers, so it will cool quickly.
Wrap leftovers well: Wrap leftovers in airtight packaging, or seal them in storage containers. This helps keep bacteria out, retain moisture and prevent leftovers from picking up odors from other food in the refrigerator.
Don’t store leftovers too long: Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for three to four days and then must be eaten or put in the freezer. They will last in the freezer for three to four months. Although the leftovers are safe indefinitely in the freezer, they can lose moisture and flavor when stored for longer times.
Reheat safely: When reheating leftovers, be sure they reach 165°F as measured with a food thermometer. Reheat sauces and gravies by bringing them to a rolling boil. Cover leftovers when reheating to help retain moisture and allow the food to heat all the way through.
Now you see how easy it can be to keep your family bacteria free. Remember these tips when dealing with leftovers so foodborne illness won’t be on your shoulders. Because people won’t remember how great a time they had, they will only remember that your food made them feel bad.

Have food safety questions? Call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) to talk to a food safety expert. You can also chat live at AskKaren.gov, available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, in English and Spanish.

Need Help Growing Cranberries? It May Be Crawling in the Soil

USDA blog post dated 11/ 21/ 17
https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2017/11/21/need-help-growing-cranberries-it-may-be-crawling-soil

The cranberries that are traditionally a part of Thanksgiving dinner may have a brighter future because of what Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists found when they went digging recently in a remote marsh in Wisconsin.

“We literally found biocontrol agents in our own backyards,” says Shawn Steffan, an entomologist with the ARS Vegetable Crops Research Unit in Madison.

The cranberry, just like any other plant, is attacked by insects that can damage its roots, vines, leaves and, in the case of the cranberry, the bright red berries that processors turn into jellies and juice. Cranberries are a $1 billion industry in Wisconsin. The state produces 60 percent of the nation’s supply, and the cranberry is the state’s official fruit.

There are several insects that can wreak havoc on cranberry bogs, with the flea beetle, the cranberry fruitworm and the sparganothis fruitworm (aka “Sparg”) chief among them. To control them, cranberry growers often have to spray their marshes with insecticide two or three times a year. The insecticides leave residues, and the treatments cost up to $100 per acre, which can add up. Many growers have several hundred acres of cranberries.

The pests spend much of their life cycle underground as larvae, and that prompted Steffan to wonder what natural enemies might also live down there that could be used to control them.
In the summers of 2015 and 2016, he and his colleagues went out to marshes in Wisconsin where wild cranberries have grown for millennia and found half a dozen nematode types that attack the pests in the wild. They compared the nematodes’ abilities at controlling the pests with insecticide sprays.

Overall, the results showed that two of the six nematodes were particularly effective, in some cases wiping out up to 90 percent of the pests. The beauty of using them as biocontrols is that they are native to Wisconsin, so they’re no threat to indigenous flora or fauna. “We don’t have to worry about the unintended consequences of introducing a foreign species into a new habitat,” Steffan says.
Steffan is currently working on a strategy for mass producing the nematodes and hopes to create a bio-insecticide that cranberry growers can use with standard spray equipment.
“It’s an environmentally friendly way to address a problem that now requires the spraying of insecticides,” he says.
In this season of giving thanks, it’s also another reason to give thanks to Mother Nature.

(PAGE 3) LOCAL MEETINGS AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS for NEXT WEEK

CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION MEETINGS:

Clallam work session agenda highlight items;
1) Discuss letter to Congress regarding funding for Secure Rural Schools and Payments in Lieu of Taxes  Action Item

2) Resolutions establishing the 2018 General Purpose Property Tax Levy and the 2018 Road Fund Property Tax Levy

3) Agreement with Washington State Department of Commerce for funding from the 2018 STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant (2c)\

(see full agenda)

Clallam County regular session agenda highlight items;

1) Public Works - Carlsborg Sewer Operations - Carlsborg Sewer System did not commence operations as early in 2017 as budgeted and revenue was  overestimated/$80,175

2) Resolution adopting the following Supplemental Appropriations: 
    Health and Human Services - Operations 
    * Funding is being received from Washington Traffic Safety Commission for the Health and Human Services Forks office to hold a child safety technician training and to purchase items for a car seat check station/$11,680
    * WIC funding added for registration and travel expenses to Washington State Nutrition Education Conference; State Foundational Public Health Services funding for 2017; Public Health Emergency Preparedness funds for the remainder of 2017/$63,368
    Health and Human Services - Developmental Disabilities 
    * Funding to provide additional employment services to individuals with developmental disabilities/$17,277
    * Additional funding for services provided in fiscal year ending June 30, 2017 to provide additional employment services to individuals with developmental disabilities/$9,985
    Sheriff - Enhanced Nine-One-One - Reimbursement from E911 County Coordinator Professional Development contracts over what was budgeted for 2017/$24,000
    Sheriff - Operations - Funding from the Road Department for Traffic Policing/$300,000

3) Consideration of resolution adopting the following Debatable Emergencies: 
Non Departmental - Additional funding needed to cover State auditor fees for the annual audit/$6,000
Public Works - Solid Waste - Funds needed for a Coordinated Prevention Grant from the Department of Ecology/$9,000
Public Works - Roads - Increase traffic policing contribution to the Sheriff’s Office to meet expenditures by that department/$300,000
Prosecuting Attorney - Local Crime Victim Compensation - Funds needed to reimburse Prosecuting Attorney Operation (00100.841) for services provided in 2016. Funds were included in the 2016 budget; however, the reimbursement was overlooked/$30,974

(See full agenda)


IN OTHER LOCAL AND REGIONAL MEETINGS;

City of Sequim agenda
Ordinance No. 2017-24 Amending SMC 17 .32.110 Concerning Subdivision Access 

The City has been a member of the Association of
Washington Cities (AWC), Risk Management Service Agency (RMSA) since 1989. As a member, the City participates in a program of joint insurance and receives risk
management services. The City has grown considerably in size and complexity since joining RMSA (e.g., the City-wide total budget in 1989 was $3.9 million, population
3,616, compared to the 2018 budget of $32.7 million. population 7,498). Staff thought it prudent and appropriate to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for insurance coverage and risk management services from other providers of municipal services in Washington
State. Staff wishes to share the results of our assessment of the responses and asks Council to consider staff's recommendation to notify RMSA of our intent to withdraw effective 1/1/2019 to join WCIA.
http://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1752

Ordinance No. 2017-24 Amending SMC 17.32.110 concerning subdivision access
 A recent preliminary plat application highlighted the fact that the current subdivision access code may lead to an undesirable amount of traffic being placed on certain neighborhood streets.
http://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1753


CITY OF FORKS AGENDA ITEM HIGHLIGHT: Set hearing on Robbins Annexation
http://forkswashington.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/agenda112717.pdf

JEFFERSON COUNTY COMMISSION AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM:
AGREEMENT re: Demolition & Removal Project Agreement re: 280 Fremont Ave. on the Big Quilcene River; In the Amount of $ 28,344 plus tax of $2,551 for a Project Total of $30,895; Jefferson County Environmental Public Health; Diggin’ It!
http://test.co.jefferson.wa.us/WebLinkExternal/0/edoc/1741422/A112717.pdf


NEWS REPORT COMMENTARY
Article from the Seattle Times: Sen. Maria Cantwell’s uphill battle to keep oil drilling out of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell hopes to prevent opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to drilling — a time-sensitive battle as Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski got the drilling language into the GOP’s plan for overhaul of the nation’s tax code.
https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/environment/the-arctic-national-wildlife-refuge-might-be-opened-to-drilling-heres-what-sen-maria-cantwell-has-to-say/

Related Cantwell press release: Cantwell To GOP: It’s A Wildlife Refuge, Not An Oil Field Senator denounces cynical effort to open the ‘biological heart' of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling (Press release issued 11/ 15/ 17)
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-to-gop-its-a-wildlife-refuge-not-an-oil-field-

Quote: " The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge supports more than 250 species, including caribou, polar bears, grizzly bears, wolves, muskoxen, wolverines, and migratory birds. “At its core, the Chairman’s Mark would manage and change current law of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and turn it into a petroleum reserve. That’s what this Mark does. It turns the Coastal Plain in this refuge into an oil field,” said Senator Cantwell.
This is contradictory to the purpose of a national wildlife refuge, which is to conserve wildlife and wildlife habitat for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans, and in the case of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge specifically – to conserve fish and wildlife and their habitat in their natural diversity. There is no doubt that allowing oil and gas development will permanently change the fundamental nature of the refuge’s Coastal Plain." 

Related US Dept. of Interior press release issued in October
Department of the Interior Releases Energy Burdens Report
Quote: " “Developing our energy resources to grow our economy and protecting the environment are not mutually exclusive. However, while conducting the review outlined in the Executive Order, we found that several costly and burdensome regulations from the past threaten that balance by hampering the production or transmission of our domestic energy,” said U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke. “Our public lands are meant to be managed for the benefit of the people. That means a multiple-use approach where appropriate and making sure that multiple-use includes energy development under reasonable regulations. Following President Trump’s leadership, Interior is fostering domestic energy production by streamlining permitting and revising and repealing Obama-era job killing regulations – all while doing so in an environmentally responsible way.”
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/department-interior-releases-energy-burdens-report

Editorial Commentary; Once again were being fed by Sen. Cantwell a feel good measure design to keep us depended on foreign oil when we have opportunities to drill for oil here, so we would rely on sources of oil, which could be used to blackmail this nation to comply with demands of nations who don't share in our way of life. That's how I see this whole drama act from Cantwell, Murray, and Kilmer. They rather keep us depended on Saudi oil, and jobs in foreign hands.

Daily Bible Verse:  And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

Colossians 3:17 NKJV

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https://www.worldbibleschool.org/

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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

AG FERGUSON, JOINED BY THE STATE PATROL AND PROSECUTORS, RELEASES OPIOID REPORT RECOMMENDING STRATEGIES TO COMBAT OPIOID EPIDEMIC

Press release issued 11/ 21/ 17
http://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-joined-state-patrol-and-prosecutors-releases-opioid-report

OLYMPIA — Attorney General Ferguson today released a report recommending specific policies to reduce the supply of opioids in Washington state. The report recommends a comprehensive approach to the problem, addressing prevention, treatment and enforcement. Ferguson is also unveiling three opioid-related bills he will take to the Legislature in January.

The Attorney General’s Office, Washington State Patrol and the Washington Association of Prosecuting Attorneys developed the report based on information shared at the Summit on Reducing the Supply of Opioids in Washington State in June 2017.

“The opioid epidemic is devastating Washington families,” Ferguson said. “This report makes it clear we have a crisis, and provides concrete, evidence-based solutions. I am proposing some of these common-sense changes as legislation in the upcoming session, including limiting new opioid prescriptions and using the existing Prescription Monitoring Program to empower providers with a more complete picture of their patients’ history before writing new prescriptions. It is time for the Legislature to take action.”

On average, two people die each day from opioid overdoses in Washington state. In 2011, at the peak of overall sales in Washington, more than 112 million daily doses of all prescription opioids were dispensed in the state — enough for a 16-day supply for every woman, man and child in Washington.

At the opioid summit in June, Ferguson pledged he would put forward legislation consistent with the report’s recommendations. Today Ferguson announced he is introducing three agency request bills this session consistent with policy recommendations in the report.

One bill requires health care providers to check the state’s prescription-monitoring database before prescribing opioids. Another limits the number of opioids a provider can initially prescribe. A third bill gives the Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Control Unit more authority to investigate and prosecute opioid-related Medicaid fraud cases.

Prescription-monitoring program

Washington currently has a prescription-monitoring program in place to collect records when patients receive controlled substances such as opioids. This program, funded by public dollars, can flag misuse or dangerous prescribing patterns. Although pharmacies are entering all controlled substance prescription information into the database, only 30 percent of providers have registered to use it.

Ferguson’s legislation, sponsored by Senator Kevin Van De Wege, D-Sequim, requires health care providers to check the prescription-monitoring database for a patient’s prescription history before prescribing opioids.

The report notes that some patients visit multiple providers to feed their addiction or to sell opioids for profit, a tactic known as “doctor shopping.” Requiring providers to check the prescription-monitoring program allows doctors to spot this behavior and refer these patients to treatment.

Currently, 30 states require providers to check their prescription-monitoring program before issuing prescriptions of opioids. After New York instituted a prescription-monitoring mandate, doctor shopping decreased by 90 percent. Research found no indication that those with legitimate medical needs had difficulty accessing medication.

Prescription limits

Ferguson is also proposing legislation, sponsored by Senator Annette Cleveland, D-Vancouver, and Representative Eileen Cody, D-Seattle, limiting initial opioid prescriptions to prevent overprescribing.

Prescribing more than a week’s supply of opioids approximately doubles the chance that the person will still be using the drugs one year later. Overprescribing leads to unused pills. If not disposed of properly, these opioids are available for misuse by teens and young adults. Prescribing only the lowest effective dose can prevent misuse, addiction and overdose, according to the report.
Based on the report’s recommendations, the proposed law limits initial opioid prescriptions to a three-day supply for those under 21 and a seven-day supply for those 21 and older. The bill makes Washington’s laws consistent with state Medicaid policy and CDC guidelines. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for most conditions, a three-day supply of opioids will often be sufficient; more than seven days is rarely needed.
The bill exempts cancer patients, as well as palliative, hospice and other end-of-life care. Providers will have discretion to issue greater quantities of opioids if a patient’s medical condition requires it.

Medicaid Fraud Control Unit
Ferguson is introducing a third bill, sponsored by Representative Roger Goodman, D-Kirkland, and Senator-Elect Manka Dhingra, D-Kirkland, that gives the Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Control Unit authority to issue search warrants and make arrests in Medicaid fraud cases, including those involving opioid misuse.
For example, one Medicaid fraud case involved a pharmacy technician who used his access to the pharmacy’s patient records to obtain opioids with high street value. These illegally diverted drugs were billed to the government.
Currently, since Washington’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit is one of the few Medicaid fraud control units in the country lacking these critical law enforcement powers, it must rely heavily on the assistance of local law enforcement to carry out investigations. Providing these critical law enforcement powers will assist the unit’s investigations of dangerous ‘pill mill’ operations.

Other report recommendations
In addition to the Attorney General’s request legislation, the report outlines a range of recommendations for Washington state policymakers that address law enforcement, addiction treatment and prevention. These strategies include:
Encouraging pain relief alternatives. For most conditions, non-opioid pain treatments such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen are equally or more effective with significantly less risk than opioids.
Expanding drug take-back initiatives. One study of medicine take-back events found more than 60 percent of opioids originally dispensed go unused. Secure drop boxes, particularly those conveniently located at pharmacies, help keep unused drugs out of the hands of youth or criminals.
Drug courts. Drug courts can reduce prison sentences for those who receive drug treatment, making them less likely to reoffend.
Law enforcement assisted diversion programs. A King County law enforcement program diverts those arrested for nonviolent offenses, such as drug possession, into treatment and support services. Program participants are 87 percent less likely to go to prison than those within the traditional criminal justice system.
Enhanced penalties for trafficking strong synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, can be deadly even in small doses—a few salt-sized grains—and is more than 100 times more potent than heroin.
Increased funding for drug-gang task forces. In 2014, Washington’s drug task forces disrupted or dismantled more than 150 drug trafficking organizations. However, since 2015, they have received no state funding.

(PAGE 2) OUR PARKS AND FOREST

FROM THE US DEPT. of INTERIOR

San Juan National Historic Site in Puerto Rico Reopening Areas to Visitors
Press release issued 11/ 21/ 17
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/san-juan-national-historic-site-puerto-rico-reopening-areas-visitors

WASHINGTON - U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke and the National Park Service (NPS) today announced that the NPS has resumed normal operations and public tours at the visitor center and Castillo San Cristóbal area of San Juan National Historic Site. Castillo San Felipe del Morro is expected to reopen as early as next week. The National Park Service is an important tourism factor in Puerto Rico, generating more than $100 million in economic activity every year for the island. In 2016, more than 1.4 million people visited NPS sites in Puerto Rico, spurring more than $85 million in visitor spending. The 1,065 jobs the park visitors supported created more than a $100 million in economic output and $40 million in income.

On September 20, Category 5 Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico causing damage to the historic fortifications at San Juan National Historic Site and forcing closures at the site. Since that time the NPS has been working to repair and restore the site and to ensure that facilities are safe for visitors and employees.

“For over 400 years, Castillo San Felipe del Morro has stood as guardian and symbol of Puerto Rico’s heritage, and it's also a major tourism attraction for visitors from all over the world” said Secretary Zinke. “I’m incredibly proud of the National Park Service and entire Interior family who have been working nonstop to reopen this important cultural and tourism attraction. Part of rebuilding communities means rebuilding revenue streams so folks can get back to work, earn a living, and care for their families. The National Park Service will continue to work closely with the people of Puerto Rico to restore life into this vibrant community.”
The governor of Puerto Rico, Ricardo Rosselló, said, "with the announcement of the reopening of these spaces we show that we are en route to the recovery of our Island. The San Cristóbal Castle and San Felipe del Morro Castle are part of the historical and cultural heritage of Puerto Rico, essential spaces to continue promoting tourism as part of our economy. We invite all Puerto Ricans and visitors to continue enjoying the national historic sites of our Island."
San Juan National Historic Site is comprised of Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal, Fort San Juan de La Cruz (El Cañuelo), La Puerta de San Juan and most of the city wall. The park is open every day from 9:00 a.m to 6:00 p.m, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
It is anticipated that Castillo San Felipe del Morro will open on Monday, November 27, 2017. On Saturday, December 2, 2017, the park is planning to host a community reopening event for the public.

 National Parks to reopen in U.S. Virgin Islands following hurricanes
Press release issued 11/ 20/ 17
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/national-parks-reopen-us-virgin-islands-following-hurricanes

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke and U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Kenneth Mapp announced the reopening of Christiansted National Historic Site and Buck Island Reef National Monument on the island of St. Croix and Trunk Bay Beach at Virgin Islands National Park on the island of St. John. The National Park Service is an important economic engine in the USVI, attracting more than a half a million visitors in 2016 and supporting 900 jobs in the community. Visitors spent $70 million and helped support $34 million in labor and more than $90 million in economic output.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the hard work of National Park Service staff, volunteers, and their partners in the Virgin Islands. Their commitment to the park and to the community is inspiring. I’ve heard many stories of staff tending to the needs of the park and their neighbors before even taking care of themselves,” said Secretary Zinke. “We have a long way to go, but every day we make progress toward getting these parks fully functional to visitors and back to providing important economic support to these communities as they return to normal.”

"The reopening of Buck Island Reef National Monument, Trunk Bay Beach, and Christiansted National Historic Site represents another significant milestone in the recovery of the U.S. Virgin Islands," Governor Kenneth E. Mapp said. "These are, of course, premiere destinations for visitors, but are also significant recreation areas for Virgin Islanders - many of whom traditionally celebrate Thanksgiving at our beaches. Thanks to the Department of Interior, the National Park and all the Virgin Islanders that continue to work on facilitating our efforts to rebuild."

“National parks such as Christiansted National Historic Site, Buck Island Reef National Monument on St. Croix and Trunk Bay Beach at Virgin Islands National Park on St. John protect some of the best of our natural heritage. Together with other protected areas, they attract millions of visitors annually and help to protect the U.S. Virgin Islands' unique wildlife by acting as a refuge for threatened species​," said Delegate Stacey Plaskett. "Although their primary purpose is the protection of biodiversity, National Parks also deliver other invaluable economic, social, cultural, and health benefits to our territory's residents. Future generations deserved the right to see these natural values intact and protected as we do today.”

The National Park Service protects and preserves significant historic sites, important ecosystems, and popular beaches that are vital to the tourism economy in the Virgin Islands. For example, visitors to national parks in the Virgin Islands spent $70 million in 2016.
Christiansted National Historic Site demonstrates the architectural, economic, and political influence of 18th century Europe like no other place in the Caribbean. The 19,015-acre Buck Island Reef National Monument includes the 176-acre island consisting of tropical dry forest and 18,839 acres of submerged lands and coral reefs.
With the opening of Trunk Bay Beach, Virgin Islands National Park now has three popular tourist destinations ready to receive visitors. Honeymoon and Hawksnest beaches reopened on November 13. Water sports equipment rental is currently available at Honeymoon Beach and equipment rental will resume at Trunk Bay Beach today. Taxi service, essential to getting visitors to park beaches, has also resumed.
To reopen Trunk Bay Beach, the National Park Service stabilized numerous structures and removed fallen trees and more than 480 cubic yards of debris. Dive teams removed underwater debris from swimming areas, however visitors are encouraged to use caution when swimming in all areas of Virgin Islands National Park.
While these sites are open to visitors, many services and features at NPS sites across the islands remain closed or inaccessible while cleanup continues.

AT THE STATE LEVEL

WDFW Budget and Policy Advisory Group sets first meeting Dec. 6 on long-term finance plan
Press release issued 11/ 17/ 17
http://wdfw.wa.gov/news/nov1717b/

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has appointed a 20-member advisory committee to help the department with strategic planning, development of legislative proposals, and future budget requests.
The group's kick-off meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6, in Room 186 of the South Puget Sound Community College campus in Lacey, 4220 6th Ave. Its first task will be to help WDFW develop a long-term revenue plan in response to legislative direction.
When they enacted the 2017-19 biennial state operating budget, lawmakers directed WDFW to complete three tasks to improve the department's long-term financial stability and operational efficiency:
Develop a long-term plan to balance projected expenses and revenues by providing prioritized options for spending reductions and revenue increases.
Identify and implement management improvements and operating efficiencies.
Conduct a "zero-based budget review" to accompany the department's proposed 2019-21 operating budget.
The Legislature also directed WDFW to obtain public input on revenue options and to report its activities quarterly to the Fish and Wildlife Commission, the Governor's budget office, and the Legislature.
Nate Pamplin, WDFW policy director, said this process represents the department's first comprehensive management, operations, and financial review in more than 10 years.
"Rapid population growth and recent state and federal budget trends pose major challenges for fish and wildlife management," Pamplin said. "The advisory committee will provide valuable perspectives and recommendations about the role the department plays in conservation and the outdoor economy."

WDFW delays commercial crab fishery on Washington coast due to low meat content
Press released 11/ 20/ 17
http://wdfw.wa.gov/news/nov2017b/

OLYMPIA – State shellfish managers have delayed the opening of the commercial Dungeness crab fishery on Washington's coast due to inadequate meat in crab shells.
The commercial fishery on Washington's coast typically opens Dec. 1. Recent testing indicates crabs along the coast do not have sufficient meat in their shells to meet industry standards for harvest. The fishery will be delayed until at least Dec. 16 to allow more time for crabs to fill with more meat.
Another round of testing will take place after the Thanksgiving holiday to determine whether the fishery can open Dec. 16 or will need to be further delayed, said Dan Ayres, coastal shellfish manager for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
"It's not unusual for crabs to need more time to fatten up," Ayres said. "We'll re-evaluate in another week or two."
Contrary to an erroneous news report, WDFW did not delay the commercial crab fishery due to a harmful algae bloom, Ayres said. Algae blooms can cause elevated levels of domoic acid, which can be harmful or fatal if consumed in sufficient quantities. Recent test results indicate crabs along the Washington coast are currently safe to eat.
Recreational crabbing remains open in Washington's coastal waters as well as in several areas of Puget Sound. More information about recreational crab fishing in Washington can be found on WDFW's website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfish/crab/

(PAGE 3) OUR ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

Reports from the EPA

Terminix Companies Sentenced for Applying Restricted-Use Pesticide to Residences in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Press release 11/ 20/ 17
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/terminix-companies-sentenced-applying-restricted-use-pesticide-residences-us-virgin

WASHINGTON (November 20, 2017) - Terminix International Company LP (TERMINIX LP) and U.S. Virgin Islands operation Terminix International USVI LLC (TERMINIX, USVI) were sentenced today for violations of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act in the U.S. Virgin Islands, announced the Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency.

The Virgin Islands pest control company illegally applied fumigants containing methyl bromide in multiple residential locations in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including the condominium resort complex in St. John where a family of four fell seriously ill in March 2015 after the unit below them was fumigated. According to the plea recommendation, TERMINIX LP and TERMINIX, USVI are to pay a total of $10 million in criminal fines, community service, and restitution payments. Under the agreed recommendation, TERMINIX, USVI will pay $4 million in fines and $1 million in restitution to the EPA for response and clean-up costs at the St. John resort. TERMINIX LP will pay a fine of $4 million and will perform community service related to training commercial pesticide applicators in fumigation practices and a separate health services training program.

“The sentences in this case reflect the serious nature of the defendants’ illegal actions and the unacceptable consequences of those actions,” said EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt. “This case should serve as a stark reminder that pesticides must be applied as intended and that those who ignore laws that protect public health will be held accountable by EPA and our law enforcement partners.”
“The tragic incident at issue in this case shows the extreme danger posed by the improper use of toxic pesticides,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Businesses using these products must take appropriate cautions to safeguard the public, or else the consequences can be devastating. We trust that the result in this case shows how imperative it is that users of these products take the time to review, understand, and employ appropriate techniques and uses.”
“This case demonstrates how critical it is to comply with environmental laws and regulations,” said Acting United States Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett for the District of the Virgin Islands. “An entire family suffered horrendous and life-altering injuries. We will continue to aggressively enforce environmental laws to help prevent something like this from ever happening again.”
In 1984, the EPA banned the indoor use of methyl bromide products. The few remaining uses are severely restricted and largely limited to commodity applications for quarantine and pre-shipment purposes. Pesticides containing methyl bromide in the U.S. are restricted-use due to their acute toxicity, meaning that they may only be applied by a certified applicator. Health effects of acute exposure to methyl bromide are serious and include central nervous system and respiratory system damage. Pesticides can be very toxic and it is critically important that they be used only as approved by EPA.
According to the information filed in federal court in the U.S. District Court of the Virgin Islands, the defendants knowingly applied restricted-use fumigants at the Sirenusa resort in St. John for the purpose of exterminating household pests on or about October 20, 2014, and on or about March 18, 2015. The companies were also charged with applying the restricted-use pesticide in 12 residential units in St. Croix and one additional unit in St. Thomas between September 2012 and February 2015.
According to the factual basis of the plea agreement, TERMINIX, USVI provided pest control services in the Virgin Islands including fumigation treatments for Powder Post Beetles, a common problem in the islands. These fumigation treatments were referred to as “tape and seal” jobs, meaning that the affected area was to be sealed off from the rest of the structure with plastic sheeting and tape prior to the introduction of the fumigant. Customers were generally told that after a treatment, persons could not enter the building for a two- to three-day period.
On or about March 18, 2015, two employees of TERMINIX, USVI, performed a fumigation pesticide treatment at the lower rental unit of Building J at Sirenusa in St. John. The upper unit in Building J was occupied by a Delaware family of four. Via various means, methyl bromide from the lower unit migrated to the upper unit of Building J, causing serious injury to and hospitalization of the entire family. 
EPA regional staff responded immediately to the incident in St. John, securing the scene, performing testing, and addressing the contamination. Within days, the EPA sent out a pesticide use warning to pesticides applicators in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, followed by a broader pesticide notice to regulators in all states, the British Virgin Islands, and to other Caribbean and Latin American countries.
After the government began its investigation, TERMINIX LP voluntarily ceased its use of methyl bromide in the U.S. and in U.S. territories. The government has notified the district court that the defendants have made full restitution to the Esmond family. The family is satisfied with the criminal resolution and has asked that their privacy be respected.
The case was investigated by EPA Criminal Investigation Division working cooperatively with the Virgins Islands government and, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
 Senior Litigation Counsel Howard P. Stewart of the Department of Justice, Environmental Crimes Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim L. Chisholm of the District of the Virgin Islands are prosecuting the case with assistance of Patricia Hick, EPA Region II Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel.

EPA backs North Dakota’s plan to improve water quality with $14.7 million in water infrastructure funding
Press release issued 11/ 21/ 17
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-backs-north-dakotas-plan-improve-water-quality-147-million-water-infrastructure

DENVER (Nov. 21, 2017) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $14,715,000 in Clean Water and Drinking Water state revolving loan (SRF) funding to the North Dakota Department of Health to support key water infrastructure projects, including new and upgraded wastewater and drinking water plants to ensure clean drinking and surface water, better serve residents, increase efficiency and reduce pollution.
“Investing in our nation’s water infrastructure is one of EPA’s most fundamental priorities,” said EPA Regional Administrator Doug Benevento. “These funds will ensure that the state and its communities are providing clean and safe water to all North Dakotans.”
In addition to the $14.7 million just funded, North Dakota’s water infrastructure projects are also funded with state match, repayments from prior SRF loans, and interest earnings. Several projects targeted for wastewater treatment as well as drinking water SRF loans include:
$66 m for Grand Forks to replace an aging water treatment plant with a new plant outside of the floodplain that will help treat source water of varying quality.
$9.4 m for Larimore to replace 6.2 miles of sewer lines and construct storm water control projects to reduce flooding and infiltration into the sanitary sewer system.
$2.4 m for Jamestown to improve the wastewater treatment plant and for water main rehabilitation for drinking water.

$1 m for the City of Oakes to refinance a project to replace deteriorated sanitary sewer mains, as well as $365k for the relocation of the main lift station to avoid flooding.

$1 m to Wahpeton for the reconstruction of storm sewer and sanitary sewer mains to ensure sufficient capacity in both systems.
$906k to Cavalier to extend sewer services to the Pines Subdivision.
$785k to Ross for rehabilitating water mains for safe drinking water.
$580k to Horace to replace a drinking water main.
$100k to Lidgerwood for emergency sewer main repairs to prevent sewage backups.
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program is a federal-state partnership that provides communities a permanent, independent source of low-cost financing for a wide range of water quality infrastructure projects. The CWSRF program provides low interest loans for the construction of wastewater treatment facilities and other projects vital to protecting and improving water quality in rivers, lakes and streams for drinking water, recreation and natural habitat.  The loans help communities keep water and sewer rates more affordable while addressing local water quality problems. https://www.epa.gov/cwsrf
The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) program is a federal-state partnership to help ensure safe drinking water. Created by the 1996 Amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) the program provides financial support to water systems and to state safe water programs.

AT THE STATE LEVEL

EPA settlement with Emerald Services, Inc. in Tacoma helps protect community from hazardous waste
Press release issued 11/ 20/ 17
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-settlement-emerald-services-inc-tacoma-helps-protect-community-hazardous-waste

Seattle – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10, has reached a settlement with Emerald Services, Inc., a hazardous waste storage and treatment facility in Tacoma, Washington, over violations of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and violations of the facility’s RCRA permit. This enforcement action was coordinated with the Washington Department of Ecology. The facility is located within the boundaries of the Puyallup Tribe’s reservation.
Emerald Services manages large volumes of hazardous waste, solvents, and antifreeze and re-refines used oil at the Tacoma facility. Emerald was purchased by Safety-Kleen Systems, Inc. on July 8, 2016, and both Emerald and Safety-Kleen are owned by parent holding company, Clean Harbors, Inc. Ensuring that funds will be available if the company’s operations harm people or damage property is an essential element of the “cradle to grave” RCRA hazardous waste management program. 
This settlement resolves several RCRA violations at the Tacoma-area facility. Specifically, the company failed to maintain adequate third-party liability insurance coverage of the facility for the past six years.  As part of the settlement, Emerald Services agreed to pay a $125,800 penalty and amended its current insurance policy to comply with its RCRA permit.
“Having adequate insurance coverage for your business, especially one that stores and handles hazardous waste, isn’t an option, it’s the law,” said Ed Kowalski, Director of EPA’s Region 10 Compliance and Enforcement Division in Seattle. “Liability insurance is a key requirement of the hazardous waste permitting system, ensuring that commercial hazardous waste handlers operate in a safe manner to protect people’s health and the environment.”
There is a history of spills and incidents at Emerald’s Tacoma facility. In 2013, a 1,900-gallon spill of a highly dangerous fuel oil/asphalt mixture injured a worker. Emerald’s pattern of spills and releases suggests the facility may have a higher probability of future accidents, underscoring the need to have liability coverage for possible bodily injury, property damage and environmental restoration.
Violating environmental laws puts public health and the environment at risk. EPA protects communities by ensuring compliance with federal environmental laws. By fairly enforcing environmental laws, we level the playing field by deterring violators and denying companies an unfair business advantage over facilities and businesses that follow the rules.


Daily Bible Verse: As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.
Colossians 2:6-7 NKJV

 Free bible studies (WBS)
https://www.worldbibleschool.org/
Learn english using the bible as text (WEI)
http://www.worldenglishinstitute.org/

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

NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO D.C

Kilmer Statement in Support of Net Neutrality

TACOMA, WA—Following the FCC’s announcement of a plan to repeal key regulations that ensure equal access to the internet, Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA) released the following statement:
“I support net neutrality and believe we must protect a free and open internet. I oppose the Trump Administration proposal put forward today because it would stifle innovation and harm consumers. The FCC should reject this proposal, and instead Congress should update telecommunications laws and make sure they are relevant to today’s economy.” ---press release issued 11/ 22/ 17
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-in-support-of-net-neutrality

Related story: Rosenworcel Statement on FCC Plan to Roll Back Internet Rights

November 21, 2017. — FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel
released the following statement:
“Today the FCC circulated its sweeping roll back of our net neutrality rules. Following  actions earlier this year to erase consumer privacy protections, the Commission now wants to wipe out court-tested rules and a decade’s work in order to favor cable and telephone companies.  This is ridiculous and offensive to the millions of Americans who use the Internet every day.
Our Internet economy is the envy of the world because it is open to all. This proposal tears at the foundation of that openness. It hands broadband providers the power to decide
what voices to amplify, which sites we can visit, what connections we can make, and what communities we create. It throttles access, stalls opportunity, and censors content. It
would be a big blunder for a slim majority of the FCC to approve these rules and saddle every Internet user with the cruel consequences.
I’ve called for public hearings before any change is made to these rules, just as
Republican and Democratic Commissions have done in the past. We should go directly to the American public to find out what they think about this proposal before any vote is  taken to harm net neutrality.”
https://www.fcc.gov/document/rosenworcel-statement-fcc-plan-roll-back-internet-rights

Related news story: FCC chief plans to ditch U.S. 'net neutrality' rules

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The head of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission unveiled plans on Tuesday to repeal landmark 2015 rules that prohibited internet service providers from impeding consumer access to web content in a move that promises to recast the digital landscape.

Kilmer Statement on Congressman John Conyers, Jr.

TACOMA, WA – Rep. Derek Kilmer made the following statement regarding Congressman John Conyers, Jr.
Press release issued 11/ 21/ 17
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-congressman-john-conyers-jr

“Sexual harassment is wrong and allegations of sexual harassment by Members of Congress or Congressional staff should be thoroughly investigated. Those who are found to have committed acts that fail to meet the highest ethical standards should be held publicly accountable,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said. “Taxpayer dollars should never be used to cover up unethical or illegal behavior committed by public servants. I have taken sexual harassment training, made it mandatory for my staff and believe it should be mandatory for others, but that’s not enough. As a first step towards reforming the way Congress handles sexual harassment violations, I support the legislation introduced by Rep. Jackie Speier and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand that would set up a process that treats fairly the people brave enough to report abuse and starts to hold Members of Congress accountable.” 

Related News Story: Secret Conyers settlement raises new questions on Capitol Hill.
WASHINGTON — New questions are being raised about the lack of accountability in how sexual harassment claims on Capitol Hill are handled, an issue that gained more attention Tuesday after Rep. John Conyers acknowledged he had settled a complaint with an accuser in virtual secret.---NBC NEWS


( PAGE 2)

Sens. Murray, Cantwell, Democratic Women Senators to McConnell: Pass the DREAM Act Before Senate Recesses in December

Press release issued 11/ 22/ 17
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=CB36F301-91AF-4646-AAD9-4887C091A4AC

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined their Democratic women colleagues in sending a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell urging him to pass the Dream Act as soon as possible before the Senate recesses in December.
In the letter, Cantwell, Murray, and nine other female Democratic Senators, including Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Kamala D. Harris (D-CA), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), emphasized the impact of President Trump’s decision to rescind the DACA program on women DREAMers, and their families, and underscored the need to pass legislation that would prevent them from being deported from the only home they have ever known.
“Women make up 53 percent of DACA recipients. According to the largest survey of DACA recipients, about one-quarter are parents of American citizen children,” the Senators wrote. “The futures of these mothers and their U.S. citizen children have been thrown into uncertainty. If Congress does not act to protect them, hundreds of thousands of women will lose their status and face deportation.”
The Senators expressed concern that these American citizen children of DACA recipients may end up in foster care if their mothers are deported. The Senators also noted that the fear of deportation leads fewer immigrants to report incidents of sexual abuse or domestic violence.
The full text of the letter is below:
Dear Leader McConnell:

We write to urge you to pass the Dream Act as soon as possible and before the Senate recesses for the holidays. There is bipartisan support for Dreamers who have grown up as Americans and know only this country as their home. They are enrolled in our colleges, serving in our military, contributing to our economy and leading lawful, productive lives. It has been over two months since President Trump rescinded the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (“DACA”) program and we have yet to see a Republican legislative plan to fix DACA. As mothers, sisters, aunts, and grandmothers, we are particularly concerned about the harm immigrant women and young children face with the rescission of DACA. 

Women make up 53 percent of DACA recipients. According to the largest survey of DACA recipients, about one-quarter are parents of American citizen children. The futures of these mothers and their U.S. citizen children have been thrown into uncertainty. If Congress does not act to protect them, hundreds of thousands of women will lose their status and face deportation. 
The effects of deportation have a lasting impact on immigrant families. When a parent is deported, it leaves the other with the responsibility of raising a family as a single parent—likely on a single income. If both parents are deported, their children may end up in foster care. Dreamer parents deserve to raise their children with dignity and without the threat of deportation.
Through the DACA program, immigrant women have been able to secure jobs and educational opportunities that allow them to provide for themselves and their families. In fact, over 90 percent of DACA recipients are currently employed and approximately 70 percent were able to get better paying jobs through their DACA status. Without the Dream Act, women will face extreme difficulty making ends meet for their families.
Women deserve to feel safe and be protected, regardless of immigration status. Taking away DACA protections places survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault at risk of further exploitation. There is already increasing fear among immigrant survivors to report these crimes. In fact, nearly 43 percent of legal advocates said they had personally worked with a domestic violence or sexual assault survivor who dropped a civil or criminal case because they were too scared of potential immigration enforcement actions to continue.
If we do not act now to pass the Dream Act, thousands of Dreamer mothers and their families will face separation. The experience of Riccy Enriquez Perdomo, a DACA recipient and mother of two small children, who was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) this summer despite having DACA protection, is just one example of what could happen across the country if Congress fails to pass the Dream Act. Riccy was detained for seven days and shuffled to five different detention facilities during that time. Her family was unable to see her or even get accurate information on where she was being held. ICE had already prepared travel documents for her to be sent to Honduras before acknowledging their mistake. Riccy’s experience and the painful uncertainty her family faced will be repeated thousands of times across the country if we do not take action.
Dreamers should not be threatened with detention and deportation. Immigrant women contribute so much to our society and we cannot let them down. Congress should immediately consider legislation that would provide a path to citizenship for Dreamers.
There is absolutely no doubt that America will benefit from passage of the Dream Act, and too much is at stake not to act. We urge you to bring this legislation to the Senate floor for consideration as soon as possible.

Ref. S.1615 — 115th Congress (2017-2018)
https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/1615
Dream Act of 2017
This bill directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to cancel removal and grant lawful permanent resident status on a conditional basis to an alien who is inadmissible or deportable or is in temporary protected status who: (1) has been continuously physically present in the United States for four years preceding this bill's enactment; (2) was younger than 18 years of age on the initial date of U.S. entry; (3) is not inadmissible on criminal, security, terrorism, or other grounds; (4) has not participated in persecution; (5) has not been convicted of specified federal or state offenses; and (6) has fulfilled specified educational requirements.
DHS shall cancel the removal of, and adjust to the status of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence on a conditional basis, an alien who was granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status unless the alien has engaged in conduct that would make the alien ineligible for DACA.
DHS may not: (1) grant conditional permanent resident status without the submission of biometric and background data, and completion of background and medical checks; and (2) disclose or use information provided in applications filed under this bill or in DACA requests for immigration enforcement purposes.
The bill prescribes the conditions under which DHS: (1) may terminate a person's conditional permanent resident status, and (2) shall adjust a person's conditional status to permanent resident status.

(Page 3)

Cantwell Provision to Help Communities Struggling with Water Contamination near Military Bases Headed to President’s Desk

Press release issued 11/ 16/ 17
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-provision-to-help-communities-struggling-with-water-contamination-near-military-bases-headed-to-presidents-desk

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the United States Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), including a bipartisan provision lead by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) that bolsters environmental restoration funding for both the Air Force and the Navy. The House passed the NDAA on Tuesday. The bill will now head to President Trump for signature into law.

Cantwell’s bipartisan provision dedicates nearly $62 million towards water remediation and environmental restoration in communities that have suffered groundwater contamination due to their proximity to military installations, such as Fairchild Air Force Base, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and Naval Station Whidbey Island.
“Every family deserves access to clean drinking water. Passage of this provision will help clean up these chemicals and move us towards clean groundwater in these communities,” said Senator Cantwell.
Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are chemicals found in firefighting foams that had been used at military installations and civilian airports. The chemicals have been detected in groundwater and drinking water wells near these entities. While the health effects of these chemicals are still being determined, studies have linked PFAS exposure to developmental damage, certain cancers, and immune system dysfunction.
Department of Defense has identified over 400 installations with a known or suspected release of PFAS that requires additional investigation. Three Washington state military facilities, Fairchild Air Force Base, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, and Joint Base Lewis-McCord have detected elevated PFAS levels in groundwater wells used for drinking water. In the case of Joint Base Lewis-McCord, military officials have indicated the contamination was contained and did not spread off the base.

(Page 4) NEWS FROM OLYMPIA

British Columbia and Washington partners in climate action, high tech, good jobs---from the Governor's Medium page

https://medium.com/wagovernor/british-columbia-and-washington-partners-in-climate-action-high-tech-good-jobs-9896e72e6863

Gov. Jay Inslee and Premier John Horgan resolved to strengthen the partnership between British Columbia and Washington state, and act jointly to fight climate change, grow the tech sector and create good jobs across the region.
Today, Inslee and Horgan met privately, where they discussed trade, climate change and stronger transportation links between the regions. Following the meeting, Inslee addressed the B.C. legislature. The last time a Washington state governor addressed the B.C. legislature was in 1984.
“Governor Inslee and I are excited about working together to deliver strong, sustainable economic development that works for people on both sides of the border,” said Premier Horgan. “Through initiatives like the Cascadia Innovation Corridor, we’re building stronger bonds between B.C. and Washington state, including better transportation links and the expansion of innovative industries like the job-creating tech sector.”
“Washington state and British Columbia share an important history and our people all share an innovative spirit,” Inslee said. “This region is stronger when we face challenges and opportunities together.”
The leaders discussed the importance of the Pacific Coast Collaborative’s joint action on climate change.
“Our government is making B.C. a leader in climate action. We’re working with climate leaders around the world to cut carbon pollution, while making life more affordable for people and creating good jobs,” said Horgan. “We have a true partner in Governor Inslee in the fight against climate change.”
“Today, I am here with the hope that together we will usher in a new era ― one that moves past polluting fossil fuels and embraces a clean-energy future,” Inslee said. “There is no doubt in my mind that clean-energy technologies open doors to economic prosperity. And they are also key to our strategy to not just mitigate, but defeat climate change. This is one of the greatest challenges of our time.”
Inslee’s visit marks the first official bilateral meeting hosted by Premier Horgan since taking office in July 2017.
Further information and meeting take aways:
Total Canada-Washington goods trade is valued at approximately $25.6 billion (CAD).
Inslee and Horgan discussed steps to create more opportunities for growth and good-paying jobs throughout the region and the importance of mutually beneficial trade between jurisdictions and, specifically, their support for a modernized and progressive trade partnership. The leaders agreed challenges such as the softwood lumber dispute should not stand in the way of gains to be made from co-operation.
High priorities included making cross-border travel more efficient with a Vancouver-Seattle seaplane service and a Vancouver-Seattle-Portland high-speed rail service, and support for the Cascadia Innovation Corridor that brings together governments with the tech sector to increase linkages and collaboration between Vancouver, B.C. and Seattle.
Horgan and Inslee expressed confidence that the Government of Canada will allow the Vancouver-Seattle seaplane service project to proceed. The results of a feasibility study for the high-speed rail project is expected next month.
Horgan and Inslee also discussed work with other West Coast partners to fight climate change and secure a shared healthy ocean through initiatives like the Pacific Coast Collaborative.
In advance of the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP 23 in Bonn, Germany last week, Horgan and Inslee joined with the governors of Oregon and California, and committed to collective action on climate change.
West Coast government leaders are building more sustainable economies by stepping up efforts to get more electric vehicles on roads, make buildings more energy efficient, advance renewable energy technology to help spur innovation, attract investment, create jobs, and make our communities more resilient for the future.
Following their meeting and the governor’s address, Horgan and Inslee released a joint statement.
“Today, we reaffirmed our commitment to work closely together and strengthen the enduring and unique partnership between British Columbia and Washington state.
“We recognize our shared responsibility to protect the environment, grow our economies, find new opportunities to expand our flourishing tech and innovation corridor, and create good jobs on both sides of the border.
“Our governments remain committed to joint action and leadership in the fight against climate change, and in the pursuit of strong, sustainable economic development that works for the people of Washington and British Columbia.”

Daily Bible Verse: Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.

Psalm 100:4-5 NKJV

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WORLD NEWS AND EVENTS

Global Community Cannot Continue Failing Children, Says Secretary-General in Observance Remarks, Stressing ‘This Is Completely Unacceptable’

UN PRESS RELEASE issued 11/ 20/ 17
https://www.un.org/press/en/2017/sgsm18790.doc.htm
Following are UN Secretary‑General António Guterres’ remarks on World Children’s Day, in New York today:

Thank you, Tony [Lake, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Executive Director].
As Secretary‑General, it’s my job to meet with some of the most powerful and important people in the world.  Presidents and prime ministers… scientists… military leaders… scholars and academics… captains of industry and business.
But none of these people are as important — or as inspiring — as the children I meet, like you.  Today, the day we celebrate the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, I want to speak directly to the children in this room, and through them, to all children around the world.
Dear young people, the future of our planet… the future peace of our world… is in your hands.  I am sorry to say that, try as we might, we adults are letting you down.  Millions of girls and boys like you are in danger, and we are letting them down.  They are fleeing deadly conflicts.  They are going hungry, or without the medicine they need.  They are separated from their parents.  Or making long, dangerous journeys to safety.
They are displaced and living in refugee camps far from home — like the children I have met in South Sudan, Greece, Central African Republic, Jordan, Lebanon and elsewhere.  Many are being bullied online or in school.  Or suffer from discrimination because of their religion, the colour of their skin or their ethnicity.  And so often, they are victims of violence or exploitation at the hands of adults.
All this is completely unacceptable.  As a global community, we cannot continue failing all the children.  So here is my commitment to you:  I will spare no effort to make sure that the United Nations is working every day, every hour, every minute, for your best interests, and UNICEF is on the front line of this effort.
Every child has a right to a safe, healthy, peaceful childhood and to develop to their full potential.  Today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders… tomorrow’s presidents and prime ministers… tomorrow’s teachers and innovators… tomorrow’s mothers and fathers… even tomorrow’s secretaries‑general of the United Nations.
Every day, all of us at the United Nations ask ourselves:  how can we work together to best support and protect you, the children of the world?  And how can we benefit from your vision and your suggestions?  How can we shape a more sustainable future that will give every child, in every society, every opportunity not merely to survive, but to thrive?  I’m so glad to see so many young people who have travelled here today, because we must also ask ourselves: what do children think?  What kind of world do you want?  I want to hear your ideas and dreams for the future.
Whenever I meet children — including and especially those living in the poorest, most desperate situations, suffering terrible hardships — they never fail to inspire me with their smiles, their laughter, their vision and their hope.  In a world that can so often seem to be a hopeless place, we need children’s hope, more than ever.
And so today — World Children’s Day — the walls of the United Nations will echo with the voices, and the hopes, of children.  As Secretary‑General, I pledge to you that we will listen and do our best to honour that hope.
I feel inspired by the thousands of children from all regions who helped to design the Sustainable Development Agenda.  As we pursue the Sustainable Development Goals — which represent the promises the Governments of the world have made to shape a better world for every person, and for every child — we remain committed to being informed by your important views, your ideas, your suggestions, your plans.
The future of the world is in children’s hands.  But we can never forget that children’s futures are in our hands.  There is no greater responsibility.  No more important job.  And no better pathway to a better, healthier, more peaceful world for every person… every family… and every child.

Third Committee Approves 14 Draft Resolutions on Human Rights Defenders, Migrants, Girl Child amid Contentious Votes over Agreed Language, Additional Costs

Press release issued 11/ 20/ 17
https://www.un.org/press/en/2017/gashc4223.doc.htm
In a day filled with voting and contentious debate, the Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) today expressed itself on human rights defenders, migrants and the safety of journalists by approving 14 resolutions on those and other topics. 

A draft resolution on the girl child proved particularly divisive, with the Committee narrowly rejecting an amendment put forward by Argentina’s delegate that would have retained original wording, by a recorded vote of 73 in favour to 84 against, with 11 abstentions.  Delegates ultimately approved the draft by consensus, as orally revised by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), but not before dozens had withdrawn their co-sponsorship over questions about the last-minute changes.

By its terms, the Assembly would urge States to improve the situation of girl children living in poverty, acknowledge the different needs of girls and boys, and make adapted investments that were responsive to their changing needs.  The Assembly would also urge all States to enact and enforce legislation to protect girls from all forms of violence, discrimination, exploitation and harmful practices in all settings.

Another notable draft was on human rights defenders.  Speaking before its approval by consensus, its main sponsor Norway called on Member States to stand firmly with human rights defenders, stressing that the principle of non-discrimination must apply to them.  Yet, Estonia’s representative, on behalf of the European Union, expressed concern about qualifying language in the draft.  By its terms, the Assembly would condemn all acts of intimidation and reprisal by State and non-State actors against individuals, groups and organs of society, including human rights defenders, seeking to cooperate with subregional, regional and international bodies in the field of human rights.

A draft resolution titled “Protection of and assistance to internally displaced persons” was also approved by consensus, following the defeat of an oral amendment — by a vote of 24 in favour to 105 against, with 34 abstentions — put forward by Sudan’s delegate over its reference to the International Criminal Court.

The United States delegate called for a vote on a draft resolution on globalization, saying it contained attempts by China to influence the state of multilateralism.  Estonia’s representative, meanwhile, on behalf of the European Union, underscored the need to assess the impacts of globalization in a balanced manner, noting that the bloc would refrain from supporting the draft.

Approved by a recorded vote of 123 in favour to 52 against, with 3 abstentions (Greece, Haiti, Mexico), the text would have the Assembly call on States, United Nations agencies and civil society to promote inclusive, equitable and environmentally sustainable economic growth for managing globalization.  It would also underline the urgent need to establish an equitable, transparent and democratic international system.

Discussion around combating racism and xenophobia was also elevated, with the Committee approving a text on follow-up to the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action by a recorded 125 votes in favour to 10 against (Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Israel, Marshall Islands, Nauru, United Kingdom and United States), with 45 abstentions.  Israel’s delegate said the 2001 World Conference where those outcomes were endorsed had been hijacked by countries which sought to demonize Israel.  The United States delegate, who called for the vote, cited additional costs to the United Nations budget.
Peru’s representative introduced a text — approved by consensus — on promoting social integration through social inclusion, saying that people had been excluded from services provided by their Governments because of their gender, age, race and disabilities.  A new focus, based on rights and gender equality, was needed.
A text on violence against women migrant workers, approved by consensus, would urge States to implement measures to end the arbitrary arrest and detention of those women and ensure that legislative provisions and judicial processes were in place for them to access justice.  Indonesia’s representative, making oral amendments, said that with women accounting for nearly half of the 244 million migrants worldwide, States must mainstream gender into discussion of the matter.
The Committee also passed draft resolutions on the right of Palestinians to self-determination; the safety of journalists; the rights of indigenous peoples; the Second World Assembly on Ageing; the role of the Ombudsman, mediator and other national human rights institutions in the promotion and protection of human rights; and on strengthening the United Nations crime prevention and criminal justice program.


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Global, Regional Partnerships Must Target Narcotics-Terrorism Nexus to Cement Hard-Won Gains in Afghanistan, General Assembly Delegates Stress

UN PRESS RELEASE issued 11/ 20/ 17
https://www.un.org/press/en/2017/ga11977.doc.htm
The security and humanitarian situation in Afghanistan remained precarious and required the support of regional and international partners, particularly in addressing the concerning nexus between terrorism and narcotics, the General Assembly heard today as it held its annual debate on the Central Asian nation.

Before the Assembly was the draft resolution “The situation in Afghanistan” (document A/72/L.8), tabled since 1980 and expected to be adopted on 21 November.  By the text’s terms, the Assembly would reiterate its grave concern about the security situation, stressing the need to continue to address the threats caused by illegal armed groups and criminals in the region.
By other terms, the Assembly would condemn all acts of violence and terrorist attacks and stress the need for the Government of Afghanistan and the international community to work together to improve coordination in countering such acts.  It would also note with great concern the strong nexus between the drug trade and terrorist activities by terrorist groups and call upon the international community to continue to assist the Government in implementing its national drug control strategy and national drug action plan.  The Assembly would also express concern over the recent increase in the number of internally displaced persons.
Also before the Assembly were two reports of the Secretary-General: “Special report on the strategic review of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan” (document A/72/312–S/2017/696) and “The situation in Afghanistan and its implications for international peace and security” (document A/72/392–S/2017/783).
During the debate, delegates voiced broad support for efforts to confront pressing challenges, including the rising number of terrorist attacks against civilians and security forces.  Many mentioned expressions of that support in 2017 had come through the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Resolute Support Mission, European Union‑Afghanistan strategy, Afghanistan High Peace Council’s Strategic Plan for Peace and Reconciliation, and the initiation of the Kabul process on peace and security.  Others pledged to assist ongoing efforts, including rebuilding Afghanistan’s infrastructure and boosting economic development, and commended important regional developments such as the Lapis Lazuli Transit, Trade and Transport Route agreement.
Abdullah Abdullah, Chief Executive of Afghanistan, provided a snapshot of the situation on the ground, reporting steady progress in the development of national infrastructure, including roads, industry, energy and transport.  While the security landscape had seen national forces effectively thwarting terrorist groups’ attempts to make gains or capture a major urban centre, he cautioned that “we are not dealing with one, but several terrorist outfits that either mirror each other under different labels or indirectly support overlapping agendas”.  Calling for a more focused and collective effort from the region and international community to address the dangerous nexus between terrorism and narcotic drugs, he said a core issue was resolving the problem of regional terrorist sanctuaries.  “We need to agree to fight all forms and shades of terror,” he said, adding that negative State rivalries and the use of violent proxy forces were counterproductive.  “We can and should no longer harbor or support one group while we fight another and claim to be fighting terrorism,” he said, emphasizing the importance of fostering stable and constructive relations with all neighbours, particularly Pakistan.
The representative of Pakistan said that apart from the Afghan people, her country’s citizens had suffered the most from decades of war in Afghanistan.  Pakistan had conducted the largest anti‑terrorism campaign in the world at its border, and in doing so had paid a heavy price, she said, adding that more than 27,000 Pakistanis, including thousands of soldiers, had been killed.  Terrorist groups posed a clear and present danger within and beyond Afghanistan’s border, she added, emphasizing that the protracted conflict had also prevented the region from recognizing its potential.
Many delegates raised concerns about a growing narcotics problem.  The Russian Federation’s representative noted a recent United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report that said opium production had nearly doubled, accounting for a large percentage of terrorist financing.  Echoing that sentiment, India’s delegate questioned where those drugs were going to and who was benefitting from such trade.  Noting that only a fraction of the revenue generated by the cultivation and trafficking of Afghan opiates reached Afghan trafficking groups, he asked: “If not the Afghan, who is controlling and benefiting from this nexus?”
Neighbouring countries shared their perspectives.  Iran’s representative said that underdevelopment, low income and lack of economic opportunities were providing fertile ground and recruitment opportunities for terrorist groups and drug networks.
Underscoring the need for enhanced economic engagement, Turkmenistan’s delegate noted that her country had provided Afghanistan with essential aid in energy, transport, education and health care.  Creating jobs and improving education would also positively impact the country, she said.
Concerns about security were also raised.  The representative of the United States, observing that it had been 16 years since his country had taken action in Afghanistan, cited a recent commitment among NATO allies to increase troop levels on the ground, in line with the goal of achieving an Afghan‑owned and Afghan‑led political settlement.  To all parties fighting against the Afghan army, he declared, “You cannot win on the battlefield — the only path to peace is negotiation,” calling on parties to cut ties with terrorist groups and advance talks towards peace.


NEWS FROM THE UN NEWS CENTER

UN report urges Sudan to address plight of millions of displaced people in Darfur
21 November 2017 – The United Nations human rights office has called on the Government of Sudan to pursue effective, transparent and durable policies to enable the 2.6 million people who have been internally displaced by the long-running conflict in Darfur to return home voluntarily or to reintegrate into host communities.

In Bangladesh, UN agency Goodwill Ambassador Kristin Davis urges action for Rohingya refugee children
20 November 2017 – Marking World Children’s Day, actress Kristin Davis on Monday called for global attention and funding to provide more life-saving aid for Rohingya refugee children in Bangladesh, as part of her advocacy work for the United Nations refugee agency.

Lack of quality opportunities stalling young people's quest for decent work – UN report
21 November 2017 – Overall economic growth remains disconnected from employment generation, the United Nations International Labour Organization (ILO) has warned, noting that young people continue to suffer from persistent unemployment and lack of quality job opportunities.



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Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on the Maintenance of International Peace and Security Following the Adoption of Resolution 2388 on Trafficking of Persons in Conflict Situations

Press release from the US Mission to the UN 11/ 21/ 17
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8123
Thank you, Mr. President, and to Italy for their leadership on this matter. And certainly we want to thank all of our briefers for the very informative reports they gave. We want to say a special thank you to the Secretary-General for his strong condemnation of reports of African migrants being sold as slaves in Libya.

To see the pictures of these men being treated like cattle, and to hear the auctioneer describe them as, “big strong boys for farm work,” should shock the conscience of us all. There are few greater violations of human rights and human dignity than this.
There is no place in our world for slavery. The United States urges a full investigation of these appalling acts. The perpetrators who are responsible for these crimes must be held accountable.
This is literally why we are here today – to put a stop to this barbaric practice and other acts of exploitation of human beings.
Human trafficking is of concern to the United States because of its destructive impact on individuals. But it also has consequences beyond its immediate victims.

The United States was the first country to bring human trafficking in conflict to this Council’s agenda as an international peace and security issue in 2015. More recently, we have advocated treating far more human rights abuses and violations as peace and security issues. Human trafficking in conflict is a prime example of the kind of human rights abuses that threaten entire regions and the world.
Terrorist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS use human trafficking to support their aggression, fueling a cycle of violence that leads to more vulnerable, displaced people who are then exploited by traffickers.
A young boy named Abdul was kidnapped by Boko Haram from his village in Nigeria when he was just 14 years old.
The terrorists trained him in the use of heavy weapons and forced him to carry out operations in which he killed 14 civilians. He was also forced to gather intelligence on government forces for Boko Haram.

And as far as we’ve seen, far too often kidnapped girls and women play a different but no less horrific role for these terrorist groups.
Amal was captured by ISIS in Libya along with a group of 71 other migrants. She testified that her captors separated the men from the women and the Christians from the Muslims. She was forced into sexual slavery and kept underground. She didn’t see the sun for nine months.
These are just two examples of many. Across sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East, vast human displacement due to ongoing conflicts and dire economic need has resulted in rampant human trafficking.
Violence from both state and non-state actors has driven thousands across the region to Europe in search of a better life, exposing already vulnerable populations to human traffickers.
The children who are forced into these situations live in conditions that most of us are blessed not to be able to imagine. And for those who have escaped traffickers, the nightmare isn’t over. Their trauma continues long after the victimization ends. Many will never fully recover.
The United States continues to combat trafficking in persons by focusing our efforts on prevention, protection, and prosecution.
On prevention, we fund research to better understand the connection between conflict and vulnerability to human trafficking – especially in places most affected by the outflows of refugees from the Syrian civil war. We also support International Organization for Migration efforts to increase screening and victim identification and services among vulnerable populations.
On protection, the United States stresses the critical need to immediately identify trafficking victims in conflict situations and to see they are provided necessary protection and assistance. As noted in the Secretary-General’s report, victims of trafficking by violent extremist groups like ISIS and the Taliban suffer from particularly severe trauma.
Not only is the United States fully committed to the complete defeat of these violent extremist groups, but we join you in complete commitment to helping those victims.
On prosecution, we appreciate your focus on accountability for human trafficking. In addition to the impressive efforts of our colleagues at the Department of Justice to bring perpetrators to justice, we have elevated our diplomatic engagement on this effort by highlighting prosecution throughout the Department of State’s 2017 Trafficking in Persons report.
We believe a victim-centered approach to investigation and prosecution of human trafficking is critical to overall success of law enforcement efforts. This includes commitments by states not to prosecute trafficking victims for acts committed as a direct result of being subjected to human trafficking.
We are also committed to partnering with governments in order to enhance their capacity to document human trafficking cases.
We welcome this Council’s unanimous call for an investigative mechanism in Iraq to document ISIS crimes, including their heinous practice of forcing women into sexual slavery.
And finally, we are encouraged by the Secretary-General’s focus on improved UN coordination on trafficking of persons in conflict, as expressed in his report.
As armed conflicts and trafficking in persons continue to converge and contribute to global peace and security challenges, the UN must also improve coordination to address this challenge.
We join the Secretary-General’s call for remaining Member States to become a party to the Transnational Organized Crime Convention and its Trafficking in Persons Protocol. This will be an important show of a unified international front against human trafficking.
We will continue to work with this Council and with partner governments to end this barbaric assault on human dignity.

Related story:
UN NEWS CENTER: UN chief 'horrified' at buying and selling of African migrants in Libya
20 November 2017 – Expressing horror at news reports and videos showing African migrants in Libya allegedly being sold as slaves, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday called on the authorities to urgently investigate the situation and bring the perpetrators to justice.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=58127

Related press release issued by the UN: World Has No Place for Slavery, Stresses Secretary-General, Horrified by Reports of African Migrants Sold as Slaves in Libya
The following statement by UN Secretary-General António Guterres was issued today:
I am horrified at news reports and video footage showing African migrants in Libya reportedly being sold as slaves.  I abhor these appalling acts and call upon all competent authorities to investigate these activities without delay and to bring the perpetrators to justice.  I have asked the relevant United Nations actors to actively pursue this matter.
Slavery has no place in our world and these actions are among the most egregious abuses of human rights and may amount to crimes against humanity.  I urge every nation to adopt and apply the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and its protocol on trafficking in persons, and I urge the international community to unite in fighting this scourge.
This also reminds us of the need to address migration flows in a comprehensive and humane manner:  through development cooperation aiming at addressing its root causes; through a meaningful increase of all the opportunities for legal migration; and through enhanced international cooperation in cracking down on smugglers and traffickers, and protecting the rights of their victims.
https://www.un.org/press/en/2017/sgsm18791.doc.htm

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US STATE DEPT: U.S.-Nigeria Bi-National Commission

Press release issued 11/ 20/ 17
https://www.state.gov/s/d/17/275783.htm
Thank you for your warm welcome, Foreign Minister Onyeama.

It is a pleasure to be here in Nigeria and an honor to lead the U.S. delegation to this year’s U.S.-Nigeria Bi-National Commission.

I am joined by colleagues from the State Department, USAID, the Departments of Defense, Commerce, and our Trade Representative. As the interagency makeup of our delegation makes clear, the U.S.-Nigerian relationship is broad and deep. The United States is committed to expanding our cooperation as we look to the future.
Through this Bi-national Commission, we hope to build on a foundation of cooperation and find new areas of collaboration -- that we will further discuss – particularly in the areas of security cooperation; economic growth and development; and democracy and governance.
These three issues – security, development, and governance – are interconnected. We cannot afford to consider them in a vacuum – they each affect the other.
Recently, on the International Day of the Girl, I had the honor of meeting a very impressive 17-year-old Nigerian – Maryam Ahmed – a Girl Champion for the NGO Save the Children.
Maryam was born in Kano State, and she told me how proud she is to be a girl from Northern Nigeria – and in particular, to still be in school when only four percent of girls in that region finish secondary school. Maryam seized the opportunity to invest in her future through education. Today, she is in law school right here in Abuja.
As a fellow lawyer, I was immediately impressed with her positive outlook and her ambition to make Nigeria’s future even brighter.

People like Maryam ensure Nigeria’s prosperity for tomorrow. Broadening access to quality education for more students is a down payment for the community, the nation, and ultimately, the world we all live in.
The role of education takes on outsized importance when one considers that girls who have access to education are less likely to face violence, sexual abuse, child labor, and child marriage.
Maryam understands this, and she is making it her life’s work, as an advocate for the rights and empowerment of girls, including those brutally kidnapped by Boko Haram over three years ago.
Maryam’s story reminds all of us about the destruction Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa have wrought on the Nigerian people – and their disastrous impact on the more than two million displaced people across the region.

An entire generation of boys and girls have had their education, and their futures, disrupted by violence.
But Maryam’s story also reminds us that we must consider security alongside other important issues – like development and good governance – to create growing and sustainable prosperity for the Nigerian people.
As we consider the deadly enemies facing the Nigerian people – including Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa – I want to emphasize today that the United States is Nigeria’s partner in this fight. We are committed to helping the Nigerian people provide their own security.
Since the last BNC, we have made tremendous progress.
For example, the A-29 Super Tucano Foreign Military Sales package is one element of our broader security cooperation in support of the modernization of the Nigerian military.

But a military response alone in the Northeast cannot lead to sustained peace.

Nigeria’s success does not just depend on its military effectiveness on the battlefield – it requires improvements to the economy and governance off the battlefield as well. In other words, a comprehensive response is necessary to build a better future in the Northeast.
Nigeria cannot simply restore the Northeast to what it was before the destruction brought about by Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa. The Nigerian government, with civic leaders and a wide range of community leaders, must work together to create a durable social, economic, and political infrastructure to support lasting peace and development for decades to come.
That must include transparent and credible investigations of human rights violations and mechanisms to hold those found guilty accountable for their actions. This is essential to deepening the people’s trust of the government, strengthening security efforts in the Northeast, and improving the United States’ ability to partner with Nigeria.
This comprehensive response must also set conditions for the safe, dignified, and voluntary return of the more than two million individuals who have been displaced. We are encouraged by Nigeria’s recent steps to establish a Northeast Development Commission, which could enable many of those displaced by conflict to restart their lives.

The United States wants to continue to partner with you in this critical phase.
Today, I am proud to announce that the United States, through USAID, will contribute an additional $45.5 million to support stabilization and early recovery efforts to help those who have been affected by violence in the Northeast begin to rebuild their lives.
Recently, Nigeria was named a target country in our Feed the Future Initiative -- this means that the United States will continue to support food security and nutrition programming in Nigeria including development programming focused on the Northeastern states.

We will continue to partner with Nigeria to help harness the power of agriculture to jumpstart the economy and provide more opportunity.
We recognize that peace, economic growth, and good governance must extend well beyond the Northeast to cultivate prosperity across Nigeria from the Northeast, to the Middle Belt, to the Southeast, and the Niger Delta.
We continue to encourage dialogue and tangible improvements in standards of living – from creating jobs, to protecting the environment, to providing services to fight corruption in the Niger Delta – a region with a major impact on the nation’s economic prosperity.
The U.S. government will continue to support your efforts; however, lasting solutions and a path forward will come from the Nigerian people.
Security is necessary, but it is not sufficient to enable prosperity. Inclusive economic growth and development are essential components for Nigeria to prosper.
Experience has shown that predictable economic policies and a transparent justice system create a positive environment for growth to attract businesses and investment.

Since the last BNC, Nigeria has taken steps to do just that, including through the implementation of a more flexible currency system and the launch of an Economic Recovery and Growth Plan. However, additional progress is needed to reduce protectionist barriers and to ensure a predictable and transparent regulatory environment.
Similar to security, the more Nigeria’s economy grows, the better it is for both Nigerian and American businesses. We want to be partners in your economic success as well.
That is why the U.S. government will soon launch a Commercial and Investment Dialogue. Led by our Department of Commerce, the Dialogue will help to develop stronger business networks between our countries and help frame subsequent discussions under our Trade and Investment Framework Agreement, to be led by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
As we consider more conversations about growing trade between our countries, we hope to work together to ensure better protection for intellectual property rights – which is just one tangible way to encourage greater trade between Nigeria and the United States.
Another key aspect to our shared prosperity is having the energy resources that are needed to fuel growth. Through the U.S. government’s Power Africa Initiative, we will help the Nigerian government serve the majority of Nigerians who currently lack access to electricity.
I am pleased to announce a $1.3 million project to address the shortage of gas available for gas-fired power plants under the Power Africa Initiative through the Department of State’s Power Sector Program.
The United States looks forward to continuing to partner with Nigeria to support other critical development programs that foster progress in the education and health sectors, including improved service delivery.
Through each of these programs and initiatives, I hope the message is clear the United States wants to support Nigeria as it continues to find new avenues of economic growth and development.
Finally, in addition to supporting the security and economic growth of Nigeria, the United States recognizes that good governance is necessary to sustain both over the long-term.
The free and fair election in 2015 was a turning point in America’s relationship with Nigeria. Because of that step forward, and our ability to work closely on security, economic, and governance priorities, our partnership with Nigeria continues to deepen.
We encourage Nigeria to build on this momentum as the country heads into several state elections, and then to the 2019 election season. Free, fair, and peaceful 2019 elections – at both the federal and state levels – are fundamental to our continued partnership.

U.S. government assistance has helped the Independent National Electoral Commission develop a four-year strategic plan for the 2019 elections, and has supported civil society to monitor the off-cycle gubernatorial elections, similar to the one just a few days ago in Anambra State. The United States is committed to furthering this technical assistance and support as the Nigerian people build their own capacity in this vibrant democracy.
As President Buhari has said so many times, Nigeria’s future depends on its ability to end the scourge of corruption. Since the last BNC, Nigeria has begun implementation of the 14 ambitious commitments in its Open Government Partnership National Action Plan. The U.S. government is supporting civil society organizations in their efforts with national-level implementation, and in helping state governments to create their own Action Plans.
We will continue to work closely with the Government of Nigeria on repatriating stolen assets to the people of Nigeria, and as such, we are pleased to co-host the Global Forum on Asset Recovery in December.
These efforts, of fighting corruption and ensuring free and fair elections, will make the Government of Nigeria more accountable to its people and better equipped to secure its citizens and keep its economy growing. Good governance is essential to sustaining greater stability in the future.
Today we have the opportunity, to look ahead at those areas where we can encourage mutual prosperity for Americans and Nigerians.
As one Nigerian proverb explains: “He who does not look ahead, always remains behind.”
At this Bi-National Commission, we must take that proverb to heart.
We have a tremendous opportunity to grow our cooperation to reach our shared security, development, and governance goals. We are eager to look toward the future with our Nigerian friends, at the tremendous potential of our partnership.

NEWS FROM THE US DEFENSE DEPT:
Internal Security Forces Assume Responsibility for Raqqa Neighborhoods
SOUTHWEST ASIA, Nov. 21, 2017 — The Raqqa Internal Security Forces assumed security responsibility yesterday for three neighborhoods in the Syrian city of Raqqa, which the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria had claimed as its capital before being driven out, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials said in a statement released today.
https://www.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1378234/internal-security-forces-assume-responsibility-for-raqqa-neighborhoods/

U.S., Afghan Forces Target Taliban Drug Labs, Hit ‘Where it Hurts’
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2017 — U.S. and Afghan forces conducted a series of strikes over the past 24 hours against Taliban drug labs, to target the revenue streams of the terrorists, according to the Resolute Support mission and U.S. Forces Afghanistan commander.
https://www.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1377688/us-afghan-forces-target-taliban-drug-labs-hit-where-it-hurts/

NATO Chief Stresses Unity of North Atlantic Alliance
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2017 — The Atlantic Ocean doesn’t divide the North Atlantic Treaty Organization alliance, it unites it, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said at the Halifax International Security Forum, Nov. 17.
https://www.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1377095/nato-chief-stresses-unity-of-north-atlantic-alliance/

Daily Bible Verse: And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.

Colossians 3:15 NKJV

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