Text Reaffirming Special Status of Jerusalem Could Be in Security Council by Monday,

 Permanent Observer Tells Palestinian Rights Committee
UN Press release issued 12/ 14/ 17

A draft Security Council resolution reiterating the special status of Jerusalem — and rejecting any attempts to declare Israel’s capital or to establish an embassy there — would likely be submitted as early as Monday, the Permanent Observer for the State of Palestine told the Palestinian Rights Committee today.

On the heels of the announced United States recognition of the city as Israel’s capital, Riyad H. Mansour briefed the Committee on a series of urgent meetings convened by the group of Arab Foreign Ministers, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and others in the wake of the 6 December announcement by the President of the United States.  Thanking those States that had requested the recent emergency Security Council meeting on the matter, he described the decision by the United States as reckless and irresponsible.

Noting that previous Council resolutions made clear that all such unilateral actions relating to Jerusalem were “null and void”, he said the city was widely viewed as a final status issue that the parties must deal with at the level of peace talks.  Egypt’s Permanent Representative had been working in recent days to begin drafting a resolution reflecting the principled position of the 14 Council members that were opposed to the United States decision, he said.  Consultations on that text were under way and could be “in blue” by tomorrow evening for possible adoption on Monday, he added.

Emphasizing that the draft would reaffirm previous Council resolutions, he emphasized that it “will not name names” nor condemn any single Member State.  The text would instead declare any action aimed at changing the legal status of Jerusalem to be null and void, and call upon all States to refrain from placing their embassies in the city.  Expressing hope that the single country that had “created the problem in the first place” would abstain from voting on the draft, he said it was nevertheless unlikely, adding that its delegation would probably cast a veto against it.

He went on to state that on 19 December, the General Assembly was slated to vote on a draft resolution submitted by its Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian, Cultural) relating to the situation of the Palestinian people living in occupied East Jerusalem.  “Help us to cross 180 votes in support of that draft resolution,” he said, noting that its adoption would mark a major step in defending the rights of the Palestinian people as well as the status of Jerusalem.
Turkey’s representative then briefed the Committee on the outcome of an emergency OIC summit convened in Istanbul on 13 December to address the announcement by the United States.  Leaders in attendance had adopted resolutions, a declaration and a communiqué, while also condemning Washington’s unilateral decision.  The communiqué called upon the Security Council to assume its responsibility to reaffirm Jerusalem’s legal status, end the occupation of Palestinian land and implement all Council resolutions on the Palestinian question.  The Summit had also declared East Jerusalem the capital of the State of Palestine and invited all countries to recognize it as such, he said, stressing that the General Assembly must take up the issue if the Council failed to act.

Several delegates then took the floor to express their solidarity with the Palestinian people and their rejection of the unilateral decision by the United States regarding Jerusalem.  Many urged Washington to rescind the decision, underlining the need to preserve Jerusalem’s special legal status and to establish a State of Palestine on the basis of the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.( read more on link source)

Senator Murray’s Statement on Vote to Roll Back Net Neutrality Rules

Press release issued 12/ 14/ 17
(link source)
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement:
“Despite the pleas of millions of Americans, President Trump’s FCC voted to change the internet as we know it, and turn it into yet another money-making tool for large corporations. This move is shameful and wrong, and I encourage the many, many people affected by today’s decision—from students and families, to small business owners and the next generation of innovators—to keep fighting back. We will not forget who and what comes first in the Trump/Republican agenda.”

Cantwell Responds to FCC Net Neutrality Decision with Legislation to Block Repeal of Open Internet Rules

Press release issued 12/ 14/ 17 (link source)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology, and 15 of her Senate colleagues joined together to announce their plan to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution that would undo today’s action by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to undermine the free and open internet and thus restore the 2015 net neutrality rules.
“Today’s decision threatens our booming innovation economy,” said Senator Cantwell. “It’s impossible to know where the next big companies will come from, which makes an open and free internet all the more important to innovators, entrepreneurs and job creators – especially in the tech-driven Pacific Northwest.”
Overturning the net neutrality rules threatens the principles that built America’s booming internet economy and opens the door for cable companies and internet service providers to start slowing down and blocking content, applications or websites, without consequences.
CRA resolutions allow Congress to overturn regulatory actions at federal agencies with a simple majority vote in both chambers. In accordance with the Congressional Review Act, the Senators will formally introduce the resolution once the rule is submitted to both houses of Congress and published in the federal register. The CRA resolution of disapproval would rescind FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s action and fully restore the Open Internet Order. Congressman Mike Doyle (D-Penn.) plans to introduce a CRA resolution in the House of Representatives.

AG FERGUSON ANNOUNCES LAWSUIT TO COME ON NET NEUTRALITY

Press release issued 12/ 14/ 17 (link source)

SEATTLE — Attorney General Bob Ferguson released the following statement on today's Federal Communications Commission vote to repeal net neutrality.
"Yesterday I sent a letter to the FCC asking them to delay their vote gutting net neutrality. Unfortunately, they did not.
"Today, I am announcing my intention to file a legal challenge to the FCC’s decision to roll back net neutrality, along with attorneys general across the country.
"We are 5-0 against the Trump Administration because they often fail to follow the law when taking executive action. There is a strong legal argument that with this action, the federal government violated the Administrative Procedure Act — again.
"We will be filing a petition for review in the coming days.
"Allowing internet service providers to discriminate based on content undermines a free and open internet. Today’s action will seriously harm consumers, innovation and small businesses.
"I was proud to stand with Gov. Inslee yesterday when he announced that Washington state will step up to protect consumers in light of this disappointing federal action. I commend him for his leadership and look forward to continuing to work with him to that end."

PAGE 2: Weekly Agricultural Report

USDA BLOG: In Conversation with #WomeninAg: Catherine Gill

Every month, USDA shares the story of a woman in agriculture who is leading the industry and helping other women succeed along the way. This month, we hear from Catherine Gill, the Executive Vice President of Investor Relations and Communication at Root Capital. Root Capital is an agricultural impact investor that grows rural prosperity in poor, environmentally vulnerable places in Africa and Latin America by lending capital, delivering financial training, and strengthening market connections for small and growing agricultural businesses. ( read more from link source)

Farmers Keeping Nutrients on the Field, Out of Streams

USDA blog post 12/ 13/ 17 (link source)

Clean water is a priority for all of us. When farmers manage nutrients, they are also helping to minimize the runoff of nutrients into local streams and rivers.
Farmers rely on two major nutrients in fertilizer — nitrogen and phosphorus — to help crops grow. When excess fertilizer leaves the field and enters local waterways in surface water runoff, those nutrients cause algae in the water to bloom much faster than it would under normal conditions. The algae eventually breaks down, and the bacteria involved in decomposition deplete oxygen in the water to unhealthily low levels. Ultimately, fish and other aquatic organisms often die as a result of this oxygen depletion. This process is called eutrophication.
Voluntary Conservation is Part of the Solution.
Working with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), farmers apply a system of conservation strategies to keep valuable fertilizer on their land and out of nearby waterways. Filter strips move row crop operations away from streams and function as collection centers for nutrient runoff. Cover crops reduce soil erosion and hold nutrients in place. No-till practices also reduce soil erosion and improve field-level water infiltration capacity.
According to David Brandt — a corn, wheat, and soybeans producer in Carroll, Ohio — those last two practices make all the difference.
“Innovative farmers are working to improve air and water quality across the country,” says Brandt, “and what we’re doing with cover cropping and no-till is really working.”
Brandt has been using no-till practices since 1971 and cover cropping since 1978. “If every farmer in the United States cover cropped, we’d see even more nutrients held in-field. That really matters when we’re thinking about water quality. When a raindrop falls, we need to be able to control it.”
Brandt’s message is clear: Conservation practices are good for his land, the environment around him, and his bottom line. “We need to educate as many people as we can, farmers and non-farmers alike. The work we do here really makes a difference, and that’s something to be proud of.”
Our Numbers Tell the Story.

Approximately 300 million acres of land across the United States are used for cultivated crop production. That’s almost three areas the size of California, managed by farmers and landowners with production goals similar to David Brandt’s.

Nationwide, conservation practices on croplands play a critical role in improved water quality. Modeling efforts  show that national cropland conservation practices implemented from 2003 to 2006 decrease edge-of-field nitrogen losses by 3.8 billion pounds per year and edge-of-field phosphorus losses by 584 million pounds per year relative to if no conservation practices were in use.
If you were to put those nutrients on a train, you’d have enough nitrogen and phosphorus to fill nearly 21,000 train cars stretching 237 miles – a distance further than Washington, DC to New York City - per year.1
In terms of fertilizer, nitrogen savings alone account for about 927 million dollars’ worth of anhydrous ammonia held in-field annually.2
Mr. Brandt is unsurprised by these findings, citing less than 100 pounds of soil lost per acre from his fields each year. “We need to get this information out there,” he says. “We need to show the numbers to tell the story.” (read more from link source)

Don’t Get Roasted by Foodborne Illnesses this Winter

USDA blog posted 12/ 13/ 17 (link source)

The holidays are all about sharing, having fun and, of course…food!!! I bet you will agree that a good holiday get-together always includes delicious traditional dishes or special recipes.
If you are hosting a holiday party this winter, you have probably already started thinking about treating your guests to a delectable menu. There are endless recipes and traditional holiday dishes that will reappear or make a debut at your dinner table; however, foodborne illnesses should not be part of the feast. While food is something to look forward to this season, foodborne illnesses is not.
If you decide that your side dishes will have the company of a delicious roast, such as turkey, ham or lamb, each of them need to be cooked properly to kill harmful bacteria that may be present. The only way to be sure that meat and poultry is safe to eat is by cooking it to the recommended internal temperature, measured by a food thermometer.
For help in the kitchen with approximate cooking times to use in meal planning, visit USDA’s Holiday Roasting Chart . For reasons of personal preference, consumers may choose to cook meat to higher temperatures. By following this chart, you can accomplish a safe and delicious holiday meal for all your guests.
Consumers with questions about food safety can call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) or chat live with a food safety specialist in English or Spanish at AskKaren.gov, available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. AskKaren also provides food safety information 24/7.

USDA Highlights $40 Million in Infrastructure Investments in Rural Communities

Press release issued 12/ 14/ 17 (link source)


WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2017 – Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue today highlighted U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) investments in Fiscal Year 2017 that will help construct or improve infrastructure and boost economic growth in rural communities.
“USDA is focused on improving rural America’s infrastructure,” Perdue said. “Investments such as the ones I’m highlighting today will improve the quality of life, create jobs, grow our economy and foster prosperity in rural areas.”
In Fiscal Year 2017, USDA used funding from the Community Facilities Direct Loan Program to invest more than $40 million in 31 projects to repair, enhance or build infrastructure. These investments were for projects such as surface transportation, aviation, ports, water and storm water resources, energy production and generation, and electricity transmission. They will benefit nearly 265,000 residents.
The investments are supporting projects in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, North Carolina, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Vermont and Wyoming. ( read more from link source)

PAGE 3: LOCAL MEETINGS AND AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS

CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION MEETINGS

Clallam County work session agenda highlight items
1) Review of the 2018 Affordable Housing and Homeless Housing and Assistance Funds Request for Proposal summary and Homelessness Task Force recommendations

2) Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Region 6 introduction of new Director Larry Phillips and WDFW Lands 20/20 proposal for the County, fishing guide fees and halibut fishing 2018


3) Discussion on agreement with Clallam County Economic Development Corporation

(see full agenda)

Clallam County Commission regular meeting highlight items

1) Letter of support for Clallam County Transportation Coalition to be identified as the Accessible Community Advisory Committee for Clallam County
The Clallam County Transportation Coalitíon will present the work initiated in the Governor's Committee on Dlsability Town Hall meeting in December 2016. The focus is coordinating transportation options for individuals with disabilities and special needs throughout Clallam County.


2) Contract with WA State Department of Commerce for the FFY 2017 Violence Against Women STOP Grant Program for $16,417 to reimburse law enforcement training and equipment specific to the scope of the grant
Renewal contract with Washington State Dept of Commerce, Community Services & Housing Division, Office of Crime Victims Advocacy, for the FFY 20L7 Violence Against Women STOP Grant Program in the amount of $16,417 to split between the Sheriff's Office, Port Angeles and Sequim Police
Departments. The funding is used to reimburse training and equipment expenses related to crimes involving adult or youth victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and or stalking.

3) Resolution appointing Teresa Marchi as acting Treasurer for Clallam County
The Treasurer has vacated her office before the end of her elected term. According to Clallam County Policy, the Board of County Commissioners must adopt a Resolution authoräing the Ïreasurer's Chief Deputy to serve as Acting Treasurer until an Interim Treasurer is named following the process outlined in Clallam County Ordinance Section 3.32.

( see full agenda)

 CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS

1) Update on Engineering Options for 8th Street Bridge Protective Screenings
At the December 5th meeting, the City Council directed City staff to continue the engineering analysis of protective options for both short-term and long-term solutions. City staff, working with Sargent Engineers, has diligently researched protective alternatives, including options presented by our citizens and local professionals.

2) Proposed Adjustments to 2018 Utility Rates
On December 31, 2017 the Electric, Water, Wastewater and Stormwater rates will expire. In addition, although rates are approved through 2019 for the Solid Waste Collections, these rates need to be revised based on current expenditure forecasts contained in the 2018 Budget.
In spite of significant rate pressures for 2018, the City as able to keep the majority of utility rates stable, with nominal increases overall. Revised rates for all of these utilities are being presented for review and recommendation for adoption by the City Council. The recommendation is for approval of just a one year rate revision (2018).
Recommendation: 1. Open the second public hearing on the recommended Electric, Water, Wastewater, Stormwater and Solid Waste Collections utility rate ordinance amendments. 2. Conduct the second reading of the ordinance. 3. Adopt the ordinance approving the rate changes to be implemented beginning January 1, 2018 and eliminating the previously approved 2019 rates for Solid Waste Collections.

3)  PA Harbor Cleanup/Environmental Issues
Seventh Amendment to PSA with Integral Consulting
Early in 2012, the Department of Ecology (DOE) released a harbor sediment investigation report. Based on that report, DOE subsequently notified the City that it is one of several entities potentially liable for some portion of the contaminants in the harbor. The City did not then, and does not now, have on staff anyone with the knowledge and expertise needed to adequately analyze and respond to all the technical and scientific harbor cleanup issues.
So, the City Council authorized an agreement with Integral Consulting to provide technical expertise on issues arising from the City’s role as a PLP in the western harbor cleanup project initiated by DOE. Integral Consulting is a firm with the acknowledged capability, knowledge, and expertise to provide the range of required analysis and advice required for the harbor cleanup process. To date, the issues have focused on the preparation of a remedial investigation and feasibility study (RI/FS) and on claims against the City’s former insurance carriers. Substantial progress has been made on both.
(See full agenda) 

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He's in your corner

Daily Bible Verse:  And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name.

Luke 1:46-47, 49 NKJV

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Adequate Funding Essential for Success of New Verification Operation in Colombia.

The new Mission to monitor Colombia’s historic peace agreement needed adequate funding to ensure it was as effective as the first operation in the country, delegates said as the Fifth Committee (Administrative and Budgetary) took up the funding of special political missions in 2018.

Established by the Security Council in July 2017, the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia was mandated to verify implementation of two key aspects of the 2016 peace agreement between the Government of Colombia and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia — People’s Army (FARC‑EP).  Verification activities began on 26 September 2017, immediately after completion of the mandate of its predecessor.

The new Mission aimed to help reintegrate former combatants, ensure the implementation of security guarantees, and roll out security and protection programmes, said Colombia’s representative, who stressed that ensuring those efforts were successful would, to a significant extent, depend on the support of the United Nations and the allocation of the required resources.

Colombia intended to speedily consolidate the achievements of the first Mission to implement the next steps, she said, noting that the international community’s support had allowed the first operation to conclude its mandate on time, having verified the cessation of hostilities and the ceasefire agreement.

The representative of El Salvador, speaking on behalf of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), said the group had provided unarmed observers for the first operation in Colombia, a step which demonstrated the importance of lending support to regional mechanisms that engaged in preventive diplomacy for mediation purposes.  CELAC also continued to support steps in Colombia towards peace, he underscored, noting that efforts and commitments made in that country testified to the people’s determination to further consolidate peace.
Argentina had contributed the largest number of observers to the first Mission, according to that country’s representative, who hailed the 2016 peace agreement and said the new Mission was a model for how the United Nations could effectively work towards peace.

The speaker for the European Union said that the bloc was supporting peacebuilding in Colombia with an overall package of nearly €600 million through its European Union Trust Fund for Peace in Colombia, established in December 2016, as well as through potential loans from the European Investment Bank — both clear signs of its determination to support lasting peace in one of its closest partners in Latin America.
Bettina Tucci Bartsiotas, Assistant Secretary‑General and Controller of the United Nations, introducing the Secretary‑General’s report on proposed funding for special political missions, said that the 2018 resource requirements for the new Mission in Colombia were $73.6 million, with a total staffing complement reflecting the establishment of 393 civilian positions.  Proposed outlays for other special political missions under cluster III in 2019 totaled $151.4 million, up $3.6 million from the resources approved for 2017.---From a UN press release issued 12/ 13/ 17 read more from link source

Remarks by President Trump and American Taxpayers on Tax Reform

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Thank you, everyone. Please.

We're joined today by college students, young entrepreneurs, families, workers, mothers, and fathers from all over our nation. You make this country run. It's an honor to be with you, and it's an honor to have you at the White House. And thank you all for being here -- really fantastic. Thank you. Great people.
As a candidate, I promised we would pass a massive tax cut for the everyday, working American families who are the backbone and the heartbeat of our country.

Now we're just days away -- I hope, I hope -- you know what that means, right -- from keeping that promise and delivering a truly amazing victory for American families. We want to give you, the American people, a giant tax cut for Christmas. And when I say giant, I mean giant.
As we speak, Congress has reached an agreement on tax legislation that will deliver more jobs, higher wages, and massive tax relief for American families and for American companies.
The typical family of four earning $75,000 will see an income tax cut of more than $2,000, slashing their tax bill in half. It's going to be a lot of money. You're going to have an extra $2,000.

But there are many more things than that. Our plan expands the child tax credit for working families. You'll hear the numbers very soon, but they're even larger than anticipated.
It nearly doubles the amount of income taxed at the rate of zero. I don't know if any of you are paying zero. I hope you're not; I hope you're paying above that. But a lot of people who are having it a little bit tough are going to be paying zero.
It closes special interest loopholes; it lowers tax rates for families; and our plan also cuts taxes on businesses, which is expected to raise income by an average of more than $4,000. So your income goes up. It's like having a $4,000 increase, which isn't bad, which isn't bad.
a lot of money to spend. A lot of jobs are going to be created with the money that you spend -- very special. And it makes America competitive again so we can bring back that simple but beautiful phrase, you've heard it before: Made in the USA. Right? I don't know if they've heard it, but you've heard it. 
Our current tax code is burdensome, complex, and profoundly unfair. It has exported our jobs, closed our factories, and left millions of parents worried that their children might be the first generation to have less opportunity than the last. Our factories have left. So many of them, gone. But they're all coming back. And you see it, even before we do this, that they're starting to come back. Our country is starting to do really well again, and as a country we're being respected again. We're being respected again.
I'm here today to tell you that we will never let bad things happen, with respect to the economy of our country. We're not going to lose our businesses again like has happened over the last number of decades. America is coming back bigger and better and stronger than ever before. Okay? They'll see it, and they're going to see the result.
America isn't content just by getting by. America is about getting ahead, about finding the best in ourselves and in each other. We are reclaiming our destinies as Americans, a nation that thinks big, dreams bigger, and always reaches for the stars. We didn't become great through massive taxation and Washington regulation. And, by the way, we are cutting regulation at a rate never seen before in the history of our country.
We became great because our people, our families -- and because of our freedom. We became great because of our drive to find the next horizon, to unlock the next mystery, and to begin the next adventure. You know what I'm talking about. And that's who we are: a nation of strivers and builders and dreamers and doers, people who treasure their independence and don't know how to quit. Never quit. Never, ever give up -- never, ever.
I say that, also, to our great Cabinet. And they've done a great job. A lot of things have happened. Nobody's done the job that we've done.
When government loosens its grip, there is no summit we cannot reach. Our tax cuts will break down, and they'll break it down fast -- all forms of government, and all forms of government barriers -- and breathe new life into the American economy. They will unleash the American worker; they will tear down the restraints on discovery, innovation, and creation; and they will restore the hopes and dreams of the American family. ---from a press release issued by The White House dated 12/ 13/ 17 (read more from source link)

Kilmer Plan Securing Overtime for Shipyard Workers on Assignment to Japan Signed into Law

WASHINGTON, DC—Overtime for shipyard workers on assignment overseas will continue to be paid through September 30, 2019 thanks to an extension secured by Representative Derek Kilmer. The congressman worked to secure the extension as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was signed into law today.
“Our shipyard workers go all out for the country no matter where the job takes them. If they work overtime, they deserve to be paid overtime no matter where they’re clocked in,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said. “I have their back, and I’m glad the country does too.”
The NDAA also included a 2.4 percent raise for military service members, one of the largest raises in eight years. The raise was included in the annual defense bill, HR 2810, which authorizes funding for the military in fiscal year 2018
The NDAA was signed into law today by President Donald Trump. The NDAA directs the Department of Defense on how to spend its money for the next fiscal year, but Congress still needs to pass an appropriations bill to fund these programs. Congress must pass that legislation before December 22nd, when the government’s current spending bill is set to expire.

“I urge Congress to work together to pass a long-term budget and spending bill that funds the military and all of the other important things our government invests in before the end of the year,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said.

In addition to the pay raise and Kilmer’s overtime provision, the bill authorizes, among other things, investments in 13 new Navy ships, and $6 billion to in additional funds to be used for a missile defense program that is designed to counter North Korea, and to fix the destroyers USS Fitzgerald and USS John McCain, which were damaged earlier this year when they collided with ships in the Pacific in two separate incidents.
The collisions have been viewed by some as a consequence of the deep cuts to the military’s budget caused by sequestration. Without a long-term budget the Navy cannot develop a plan to regularly train sailors.---from a press release by Congressman Kilmer dated 12/ 13/ 17

PAGE 2: OUR PARKS AND FOREST

Interior Continues Steps Toward Department-Wide Culture Change with Release of Work Environment Survey Results

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Interior released results from a Work Environment Survey that shows 35 percent of its employees were harassed or discriminated against in the 12 months preceding the anonymous survey. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke and Deputy Secretary David Bernhardt, who have been on the forefront of instilling a culture change through swift personnel actions, transparency and a zero-tolerance policy, have issued a call for action plans from all bureau and office heads across the Department.

The Work Environment Survey was sent during the period of January 9 to March 5, 2017 to all DOI personnel employed as of December 10, 2016. CFI Group, a third-party contractor to the Department of the Interior, conducted the survey and developed the report that was released today. The survey results come two months after the National Park Service and Secretary Zinke announced the NPS-specific results from the same survey.

“From day one, I made it clear that I have zero tolerance for any type of workplace harassment, and I have directed leadership across the entire Department to move rapidly to improve accountability and transparency with regard to this absolutely intolerable behavior,” said Secretary Zinke. “All employees have the right to work in a safe and harassment-free environment. I've already fired a number of predators who other administrations were too afraid to remove or just turned a blind eye to. Under my leadership we don't protect predators. When I say ‘zero tolerance’ I mean that these people will be held accountable for their abhorrent actions.”
The survey, which is the first of its scope done across the federal government, was designed to assess workplace conditions that Interior employees experience, including the prevalence and context of all forms of harassment. 28,203 employees responded to the survey, or a 44% response rate. Results showed that 20.5 percent of employees experienced age-related harassment, 16.5 percent experienced harassment because of their gender, 9.3 percent because of their race or ethnicity, and 8 percent experienced sexual harassment. Other forms of harassment that were surveyed were religion (7.1 percent), disability (6.1 percent) and sexual orientation (3.6 percent). 0.74 percent of respondents experienced a sexual assault.

CHANGING THE CULTURE
In a memo sent today to bureau and office heads, Deputy Secretary Bernhardt directed each to develop and submit a formal action plan within 45 days to address their specific survey results. Those plans, which will also be sent to the Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and Budget, will include a schedule for accomplishing those actions and a description of how they will assess success.

“Intimidation, harassment, and discrimination are viruses within an operation, and have no place at Interior,” said Deputy Secretary Bernhardt. “The previous administration failed to aggressively address these problems and it shows. The culture across the Department will change. It’s up to all levels of management to ensure that our employees have a healthy work environment that empowers them to be productive and effective for the American people. And if managers are the problem, we will deal with of them.”
The Department has revised the performance standards for managers and supervisors to ensure that their future performance ratings will reflect their success or failure in holding employees accountable for harassing conduct. In addition, the new Department harassment policy which is now in draft form will implement a mandatory reporting process for reporting allegations of harassing conduct up the chain of command. This reporting structure will ensure that misconduct is not ignored and that appropriate disciplinary action is taken.

Since the Department received initial survey results, Interior has:
Issued the National Park Service Anti-Harassment Policy and its accompanying draft Reference Manual in October. NPS has been collecting employee comments on the Reference Manual and will finalize it soon. The new NPS anti-harassment policy has been strengthened by defining more broadly what is prohibited harassing conduct to ensure that employees can be held accountable for harassing conduct even if such behavior may not rise to the level of illegal harassment under EEO laws. This should serve as template for other bureaus and offices
Drafted a Department-wide harassing conduct policy that is similar to the NPS Anti-Harassment Policy; it defines more broadly prohibited harassing conduct to allow managers to hold employees accountable for conduct that may not rise to the level of illegal harassment. The Policy will have a reporting structure to ensure that management knows when allegations of harassing conduct are raised and that matters are investigated quickly.
Issued an Investigator Guide to Conducting Administrative Investigators. The guidance sets consistent high standards, ensuring that misconduct investigations, including those dealing with harassing conduct, are conducted in a thorough, impartial and fair manner, and any resulting disciplinary or other actions are defensible.
Trained close to 100 employee relations and employment law practitioners on conducting administrative investigations into allegations of misconduct.
Expanded the cadre of ombuds professionals available, with most Bureaus now having a dedicated ombuds resource in place.
Created/updated dedicated internal and external employee webpages with resources on harassment, discrimination and retaliation.
“These survey results don’t illustrate a new problem, but they will help us target where we must dedicate efforts and resources to fix a problem that has festered for years,” said Secretary Zinke. “We are now continuing the needed steps in creating plans across all of our bureaus and offices to ensure that every employee feels, not only safe on a daily basis, but also empowered to speak up should they feel harassed or discriminated against.”
Department employees who have experienced harassment or discrimination can find a wide variety of resources at DOI.gov/employees.---From a press release issued by the US Dept. of Interior dated 12/ 14/ 17

Secretaries Zinke and Perdue Host Inter-Agency Forestry & Wildfire Listening Session with Federal, Congressional and State Stakeholders

WASHINGTON – Yesterday, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue hosted an inter-agency listening session with federal, congressional, and state stakeholders. Photos for media use are available here.

"Wildfires affect all of us so it only makes sense that we all work together to prevent and fight them," said Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke. "Our inter-agency and partner meeting was the first of what I hope will be many to identify and implement better practices to manage our forests and save lives and communities."

“Yesterday was a good opportunity to reflect on the 2017 fire season, to recognize what did and didn’t work, and to collaborate on how we can move forward into 2018,” Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said. “With this being the costliest fire season in history, it is clear that we need a permanent fix to fire funding. I’m encouraged by the work being done in Congress and it’s imperative that we continue to communicate with stakeholders, so we can figure out how best to work together to manage forests and ultimately prevent fires the best that we can.”
​Accompanied by House Natural Resources Chairman Rob Bishop (UT), Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR) and stakeholders representing conservation, hunting, forestry, and state associations, conversation centered around fixing the wildfire funding problems, possible improvements to wildfire management, innovative ways to detect and suppress wildfires, and ways to improve cooperation between industry, state, and federal authorities. ​
Secretary Zinke and Secretary Perdue host Inter-Agency Forestry & Wildfire Listening Session with Federal, Congressional and State Stakeholders
Secretary Zinke, Secretary Perdue, and Congressman Rob Bishop participate in the listening session Next steps include figuring out which discussion points could become action items before the next season and sharing them with agency, state, and congressional partners.----from a press release issued by US DEPT. of Interior dated 12/ 12/ 17

AT THE STATE LEVEL...

WDFW investigates two suspected wolf poaching cases in northeast Washington
OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is investigating two suspected wolf poaching incidents in northeast Washington, and a conservation group is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to convictions.
WDFW Police Capt. Dan Rahn said one case involves the killing of a female wolf in Ferry County, whose carcass was found Dec. 5 by department personnel approximately 15 miles southwest of Republic.
The wolf had been wearing a radio collar, attached by WDFW biologists in 2016 when it was a member of the Profanity Peak pack.  Biologists said she was not associated with any pack when she was killed.  Rahn said the collar had stopped transmitting location data in early November.
The second investigation stems from the discovery by hunters of a dead wolf on Nov. 12 about 10 miles southeast of Colville in Stevens County, he said. That wolf, a breeding female, was discovered within the range of the Dirty Shirt pack and is presumed to be a member of the pack.
Rahn said both investigations remain active, and the department encourages anyone who might have relevant information to contact WDFW at 877-933-9847 or 360-902-2936. The illegal killing of a wolf or other endangered fish or wildlife species is a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
Conservation Northwest, one of the groups that partners with WDFW on wolf conservation and management, has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to convictions in these cases.
Gray wolves are listed as endangered under state law throughout Washington. In the western two-thirds of the state, they are also listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act.---Press release issued 12/ 11/ 17

Westport crabber sentenced for stealing commercial pots

OLYMPIA – A Grays Harbor County judge has sentenced a commercial crab fisherman to 90 days of electronic home monitoring and fined him $5,000 for stealing crab pots offshore of Westport, concluding a case that began with an investigation last year by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).

Larrin Breitsprecher, 57, of Westport, was sentenced Dec. 1 by Grays Harbor County Superior Court Judge Mark McCauley after a jury found him guilty of possessing stolen property and related charges. Beginning May 1, Breitsprecher will be required to remain at home for three months unless he requires medical attention.
WDFW Police Captain Dan Chadwick said the department began its investigation after a deckhand on Breitsprecher's crab boat told officers that his boss directed him to steal crab pots while fishing near Westport.
After obtaining a search warrant, police officers from WDFW and the Quinault Indian Nation seized 32 commercial crab pots from Breitsprecher's gear stack at the Port of Westport and determined that at least 24 of them belonged to other crabbers, Chadwick said.
"A commercial crab pot fully rigged can run $200 to $250, so the loss of multiple pots can really add up," he said. "We appreciate that the Grays Harbor prosecutor's office pursued this case, because it demonstrates that the law extends to ocean waters." Chadwick said the department also appreciated the assistance of the Quinault tribal police.
WDFW currently licenses 223 coastal crab vessels, which landed 16.4 million pounds of Dungeness crab with a dockside value of $52 million during the 2016-17 season.----Press release issued 12/ 11/ 17

PAGE 3: OUR ENVIRONMENTAL DIGEST

EPA will begin a public comment period on the updated cleanup cost estimate at USS Lead Superfund site, East Chicago, Ind.

CHICAGO (Dec. 13, 2017) — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will begin taking public comments on Dec. 18, 2017 on a proposed explanation for a $60 million increase in its cost estimate for cleanup of zones 2 and 3 of the USS Lead Superfund Site in East Chicago, Ind.
In its 2012 record of decision, EPA initially estimated the USS Lead site cleanup would cost $22.8 million. Since then, EPA has determined that the number and size of properties requiring cleanup in zones 2 and 3 — and the extent of contamination there — are all greater than originally estimated.
The reasons for EPA’s updated $84.9 million cleanup cost estimate are outlined in a document called the “explanation of significant differences,” available online at: https://www.epa.gov/uss-lead-superfund-site.
EPA’s 60-day public comment period begins Dec.18, 2017, and closes Feb. 16, 2018. Written comments must be postmarked no later than Feb. 16, 2018. Comments can be sent:
By mail: Janet Pope, Community Involvement Coordinator, U.S. EPA Region 5, Superfund Division (SI-6J), 77 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604-3590
Via the web: https://www.epa.gov/uss-lead-superfund-site
Via email: pope.janet@epa.gov 
EPA will schedule a public meeting for January at the Carrie Gosch Elementary School in East Chicago to discuss the revised cost estimate and take public comments.

On Dec. 8, Administrator Pruitt named the USS Lead site to a list of 21 Superfund sites across nation which are receiving his immediate and intense attention. The Administrator visited the USS Lead site in April and heard directly from East Chicago residents affected by contamination in their community. He pledged during his visit that federal, state and local partners would continue to coordinate on the cleanup of the USS Lead site. EPA reached a legal agreement with several potentially responsible parties to provide an additional $16 million for cleanup of residential properties on the site.---From a EPA press release issued 12/ 13/ 17

EPA announces funding for Puget Sound protection, conservation & recovery

SEATTLE – The Northwest office of the Environmental Protection Agency announced today that through its National Estuary Program it is providing $25.2 million in grant funds to state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts.
“A healthy Puget Sound is vital to the environmental and economic health of Washington state,” said EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt. “EPA is succeeding in protecting and restoring habitats and water quality by supporting local partners and projects.”
Among the efforts funded in whole or in part with National Estuary Program funds announced today are:
The restoration of an additional 5,000 acres of key Orca and salmon habitat;
The re-opening of about 4,000 acres of shellfish beds in Puget Sound; and
Improvement of biological condition from fair to good for at least 30 streams.
EPA distributes its National Estuary Program funds to Washington’s Department of Ecology, Department of Health, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Commerce, the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Washington State University’s Stormwater Center, the Puget Sound Partnership, and the University of Washington’s Puget Sound Institute.
These agencies then fund projects that meet the goals of both the National Estuary Program and the Puget Sound Action Agenda which is developed by the Puget Sound Partnership, the state agency charged with leading the state’s collective efforts to restore and protect Puget Sound. The Puget Sound Institute conducts and funds scientific research that informs decision-making.
Since 2006 Congress has appropriated $212 million in National Estuary Program funds that EPA has used to help restore over 49,752 acres of habitat (64 square miles), and to protect over 140,000 acres of shellfish beds. Other success stories over the last decade include:
A net increase of approximately 5,000 acres of safe, harvestable shellfish beds restored;
Removal of 1,006 creosote treated pilings in Northern Hood Canal and Chambers Creek to protect spawning herring populations and reduce embryo mortality. NEP’s cumulative investment of approximately $967,000 for all removals (and monitoring) in these two areas, inspired the state legislature to appropriate $2.5 in 2014 for other removals; and
Re-opening 1.5 miles of Coho spawning and rearing habitat in the upper Skagit River by the Upper Skagit Indian Tribe. The projects helped restore natural watershed processes critical to flood management.
In addition to providing grant funds, through the National Estuary Program and other programs, EPA experts provide their scientific expertise to local, state, tribal, industry, and NGOs on strategy development, and are typically involved in scientific research and restoration projects throughout the watershed.
Encompassing 8 million acres of rivers, bays, beaches and shorelines, the Puget Sound watershed serves as an economic and cultural hub for the region’s more than 4.7 million people, including 19 federally recognized tribes.---from an EPA press release issued 12/ 13/ 17

AT THE STATE LEVEL...

Cooke fined for water quality violations at Bainbridge Island net pen facility

PORT ORCHARD – Without water quality protections in place, Cooke Aquaculture Pacific (Cooke) has repeatedly cleaned dirty equipment and discharged polluted wastewater into Puget Sound. Cooke operates commercial Atlantic salmon net pens in Washington state.
Ecology has been directing Cooke to fix water quality violations at their dock on Bainbridge Island near their net pen facility in Rich Passage since the agency began receiving citizen complaints in August 2016.
As a result, the Washington Department of Ecology issued Cooke an $8,000 penalty for violating state law. It is illegal to pressure wash or repair equipment, boats, nets, docks, vehicles, etc. over the water. In addition to the penalty, Cooke is required to immediately stop allowing pressure washing wastewater to enter Puget Sound.
This fine comes after Ecology sent two warning letters, issued a notice of violation, and requested that the company fix the violations on many occasions.

Cooke is specifically being penalized for:                                                                                       
Unlawfully discharging polluting matter into state waters.
Pressure washing equipment, nets, and vehicles over the water and allowing wastewater to enter Puget Sound.
 Changing boat engine oil over the water.
Failing to put safeguards in place to protect water quality.
Failing to correct water quality violations when directed.
Download the penalty and administrative order online for specific details.
Ecology investigates reports of pollution from citizens. Members of the public can report pollution or environmental spills to Ecology online.
This penalty is for violations at Cooke’s commercial net pen facility in Rich Passage near Bainbridge Island, and is not related to the net pen collapse at their facility near Cypress Island. The state is currently investigating that incident – for which Ecology may issue a separate enforcement action.---Press release from the DOE issued 12/ 13/ 17

WSDA adopts rules aligned with federal Worker Protection Standards

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) has adopted rules updating Worker Protection Standards to correspond to federal regulations. The new rules regarding pesticide use were signed by Director Derek Sandison and will take effect Jan. 13, 2018.

In 2015, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made changes to federal worker protection requirements covering the use of pesticides. The changes address worker training, information posting, decontamination and other issues. Some of the changes were scheduled to take effect in 2017, however EPA delayed implementation until January 2018.

“The Worker Protection Standards cover a lot of areas,” said Director Sandison. “It’s critical that agricultural employers learn and understand what’s being required to comply and protect their workers and their communities.”

Before EPA adopted the WPS changes, many of Washington’s rules were stricter and more protective than federal requirements. For example, new regulations for medical evaluations, respirator fit testing and training bring federal requirements up to standards that have been in place in Washington for more than 20 years. Other provisions of the new federal standards have been incorporated into WSDA’s new rules, such as:
Workers and handlers must be trained every year, instead of every five years as previously required. Also a record of that training must be kept for two years.
The type of information and location where it’s displayed have been expanded and specified. For example, Safety Data Sheets must be posted along with application and safety info in a spot that’s easily seen by workers and handlers.
Agricultural employers must keep everyone – except properly trained and equipped pesticide handlers –out of the area surrounding the application equipment as pesticides are being applied.
WSDA is coordinating with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, which is in the process of updating its own rules to reflect the federal WPS. While each agency’s rulemaking process is separate, state law requires that both agencies rules be consistent.
Over the past year, WSDA has been working with agricultural employers and workers to help them understand the WPS, providing technical assistance and training to the new requirements. Until final EPA-approved resources and training materials are available, WSDA will continue with education and outreach efforts through the 2018 growing season, before beginning enforcement of the new rules, allowing industry time to implement the changes. ---press release issued by the WSDA 12/ 13/ 17


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He's in your corner
Daily Bible Verse:  Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Luke 1:30-33 NKJV

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Refugees Continue to Flow in, Says Bangladesh Delegate, as Myanmar Counterpart Outlines Efforts for Safe Returns of Rohingya People

UN PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 12/ 12/ 17

Describing “the most heartbreaking and horrific” accounts of sexual atrocities against girls and women in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, the Special Representative of the Secretary‑General for Sexual Violence in Conflict told the Security Council today that every woman or girl she had spoken with had either endured brutal assault or had witnessed sexual violence, including seeing women literally being raped to death.

Pramila Patten, reporting on her recent visit to Rohingya refugees in camps in Bangladesh, said those shocking accounts indicated a pattern of grave violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.  Sexual violence was being used as a push factor for forced displacement on a massive scale, with some survivors being told to leave because they were not citizens of Myanmar.  It was crucial that safe return of the Rohingya people be accompanied by basic security and guaranteed rights.  Otherwise, the cycle of violence, impunity and forced displacement risked being repeated if the underlying conditions did not change.

She urged the Security Council to demand a swift end to the atrocities, to ensure accountability to perpetrators, to create conditions for a safe and dignified future for survivors and to ensure unhindered humanitarian.  In addition, an impartial, independent mechanism for investigation of crimes should be created, with those found implicated in abuses removed from positions of responsibility and prosecuted.  Commending the Government and people of Bangladesh for their efforts on behalf of the displaced Rohingya, she reported that, tragically, the displacement and abuses that drove it were still continuing.  “Inaction is not an option,” she stressed.

Jeffrey Feltman, Under‑Secretary‑General for Political Affairs, said that although violence in Rakhine State had subsided, new Rohingya refugees continued to arrive in Bangladesh, including more than 36,000 unaccompanied children.  The estimated number of refugees entering Bangladesh since 25 August was now exceeding 626,000.  Welcoming the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Myanmar and Bangladesh, he urged all Myanmar leaders adopt measures to defuse tensions and create an environment for safe and dignified repatriation of refugees and internally displaced persons, including through interfaith initiatives.

The complex challenges in Rakhine required civilian‑military coordination, he emphasized.  While the efforts by regional and other Member States in helping Myanmar address areas beyond Rakhine, including the peace process, were much appreciated, the 2020 elections would stand as an important test in the consolidation of the nation’s democratic institutions.  The effort to achieve peace between the Government and various ethnic armed organizations was a cornerstone of that transition.  The appointment of a Special Envoy by the Secretary‑General could strengthen the United Nations partnership with Myanmar in close consultations with interested Member States in the region and beyond, he said.

Myanmar’s representative emphasized that his Government did not condone human rights abuses and, if provided with concrete evidence, would take legal action against transgressors.  His country had embraced the recommendations of the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State as a road map to solving the root causes of the problem and was committed to implementing those recommendations.  However, noting the Security Council’s recent presidential statement on Myanmar, the approval by the Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) of an almost identical draft text, as well as the Human Rights Council’s adoption of another draft resolution on the subject, he reiterated his country’s objection to such discriminatory and selective application of overlapping action.

Bangladesh’s delegate said his country was continuing to receive an average of 100 to 400 Rohingya people daily, with many of them arriving following alleged coercion to accept national verification documents designating them as Bengalis.  Although his Government’s agreement with Myanmar was a critical first step, he cautioned that repatriation within a reasonable time frame must not be taken as license to prolong the process over an indefinite period.  At the same time, he called on the Myanmar authorities to end divisive policies, including the State policy of treating the Rohingya as illegal immigrants, and he urged the Council to act as the custodian of the bilateral process, as well as the rights of the Rohingya people.

Council members welcomed the Memorandum of Understanding between Myanmar and Bangladesh and Myanmar’s commitment to implement the recommendations of the Advisory Commission.  However, speakers also expressed concern at continued violence and human rights violations and called for accountability for the perpetrators of crimes, including sexual violence, as well as unhindered access for humanitarian workers. (read more from link source)

Remarks By President Trump and Vice President Pence at Signing Ceremony for Space Policy Directive - 1

WH press release issued 12/ 11/ 17

THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you very much, Vice President Pence, for helping -- where's our Vice President -- great job, great job -- to restore American leadership in space.  So important.

Cabinet members, General Selva, Deputy Secretary Shanahan, Acting Administrator Lightfoot, members of Congress, and the National Space Council, thank you all for being here.

And especially, Mike, as I said, I want to thank you.  I know how active you've been and how important this is to you.  So we appreciate it.  Thank you very much.

We also welcome astronauts Christina Koch and Peggy Whitson.  Christina, thank you.  Peggy, thank you very much.  Peggy recently returned from the International Space Station and has now spent an incredible 665 days in space.  You'll have to explain that.  That sounds tough.    More than any other American; more than any woman ever.
Finally, we're honored to be joined by Apollo astronaut Jack Schmitt.  Exactly 45 years ago, almost to the minute, Jack became one of the last Americans to land on the moon.  Today, we pledge that he will not be the last.  And I suspect we'll be finding other places to land in addition to the moon.
What do you think, Jack?  Where's Jack?  What do you think, Jack?  We'll find some other places out there?  There are a couple of other places, right?
MR. SCHMITT:  Yes, we should.  Learn from the moon.

THE PRESIDENT:  We'll learn.  The directive I'm signing today will refocus America's space program on human exploration and discovery.  It marks an important step in returning American astronauts to the moon for the first time since 1972 for long-term exploration and use.  This time, we will not only plant our flag and leave our footprint, we will establish a foundation for an eventual mission to Mars.  And perhaps, someday, to many worlds beyond.

This directive will ensure America's space program once again leads and inspires all of humanity.  The pioneer spirit has always defined America, and we're picking that up in many other fields.  I think you see that.  I think it's obvious.  All you have to do is look at what's happening with the markets and all of the great things that are happening.  We're leading in many different fields again, and it'll get more and more obvious as you go along.
After braving the vast unknown and discovering the new world, our forefathers did not only merely sail home -- and, in some cases, never to return.  They stayed, they explored, they built, they guided, and through that pioneering spirit, they imagined all of the possibilities that few dared to dream.
Today, the same spirit beckons us to begin new journeys of exploration and discovery, to lift our eyes all the way up to the heavens, and once again imagine the possibilities waiting in those big, beautiful stars if we dare to dream big.  And that's what our country is doing again:  We're dreaming big.
This is a giant step toward that inspiring future and toward reclaiming America's proud destiny in space.  And space has so much to do with so many other applications, including a military application.  So we are the leader and we're going to stay the leader, and we're going to increase it many-fold. (read more from link source)



(page 2) NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO D.C

Kilmer Plan Securing Overtime for Shipyard Workers on Assignment to Japan Signed into Law

Press release issued 12/ 12/ 17

WASHINGTON, DC—Overtime for shipyard workers on assignment overseas will continue to be paid through September 30, 2019 thanks to an extension secured by Representative Derek Kilmer. The congressman worked to secure the extension as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was signed into law today.

“Our shipyard workers go all out for the country no matter where the job takes them. If they work overtime, they deserve to be paid overtime no matter where they’re clocked in,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said. “I have their back, and I’m glad the country does too.”
The NDAA also included a 2.4 percent raise for military service members, one of the largest raises in eight years. The raise was included in the annual defense bill, HR 2810, which authorizes funding for the military in fiscal year 2018
The NDAA was signed into law today by President Donald Trump. The NDAA directs the Department of Defense on how to spend its money for the next fiscal year, but Congress still needs to pass an appropriations bill to fund these programs. Congress must pass that legislation before December 22nd, when the government’s current spending bill is set to expire.

“I urge Congress to work together to pass a long-term budget and spending bill that funds the military and all of the other important things our government invests in before the end of the year,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said.

In addition to the pay raise and Kilmer’s overtime provision, the bill authorizes, among other things, investments in 13 new Navy ships, and $6 billion to in additional funds to be used for a missile defense program that is designed to counter North Korea, and to fix the destroyers USS Fitzgerald and USS John McCain, which were damaged earlier this year when they collided with ships in the Pacific in two separate incidents.
The collisions have been viewed by some as a consequence of the deep cuts to the military’s budget caused by sequestration. Without a long-term budget the Navy cannot develop a plan to regularly train sailors.

Citing Unknown Impacts on Students and Schools, Senators Murray and Cantwell Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision.

Press release issued 12/ 13 / 17

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate education committee, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and 20 U.S. Senators sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai urging him to consider how a free, fair and open internet provides our nation’s students with opportunities to learn and succeed. Senators requested Chairman Pai delay the proposed vote to undo net neutrality until he specifically addresses the impacts on students and schools—specifically those in rural or low-income communities, as well as how it will address education equity and the digital divide.

“By overturning the Commission’s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation’s students and schools—especially those in rural and low-income communities,” the senators wrote. “We urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order’s impact on our nation’s students and their ability to learn.”

Allowing internet service providers to limit access and increase costs could increase the digital divide for students in rural and low-income areas, where their only access to the internet may be at a resource-constrained school or a public library. This decision could also hinder teachers’ and students’ ability to access educational materials from around the globe and make it more difficult for students with disabilities and English learners to receive a high-quality education. On December 14, the Commission is expected to vote along party lines in favor of Chairman Pai’s proposal, which will roll back the FCC’s current prohibitions against blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization and will give more power to internet service providers (ISPs).

Senator Murray’s Statement on First Conference Committee Meeting

Press release issued 12/ 13/ 17

Thank you Chairmen Brady and Hatch, Ranking Members Neal and Wyden, and all of my colleagues on this conference committee.

"Honestly, I’m not even sure why we are here today.

"This has been a sham partisan process—a brazen partisan attempt to jam through legislation that would devastate our economy with as little scrutiny or debate as possible—and this dog-and-pony show of regular order today isn’t fooling anyone.
"Because let’s be very clear about what this tax plan would do—it’s pretty simple.
"The Republican tax plan would be a massive giveaway to the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations.
"It would raise taxes on the middle class.
"It would increase health premiums for millions of patients.
"It would open up the pristine Arctic Refuge to drilling.
"It would blast a massive hole in our deficit—and put Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security in grave danger.

"And that’s just the start to the list of damages this horrific plan would do to families and the economy—I could go on and on.
"But I want to spend just a minute focusing on one aspect of this Republican tax plan—the truly devastating health care change that would raise families’ premiums, cause millions of people to lose coverage, and create even more chaos and instability in health care markets.
"Now, people have rejected every single Republican attempt to undermine their health care this year. So it’s worth asking—why are Republicans doing this again?
"The answer is simple: Republicans wanted to spend the savings from taking away millions of people’s health care on tax cuts for those at the top.
"Here is what will happen if this is jammed through, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office: Premiums will be ten percent higher each year, thirteen million people will lose coverage, and markets will get even more unstable—which experts have said could cause some communities to lose coverage options.

"And I want to be very clear: none of the bipartisan legislation being discussed would fix that.
"The health care stabilization bill I worked on with Chairman Alexander and Senator Collins’ reinsurance bill are both good bills that would help push back against President Trump’s sabotage of health care—but they won’t stop the premium increases, coverage losses, and chaos that the Republican tax bill would cause—and that’s assuming they could even pass through the Republican House.

"So I urge my Republican colleagues to take a step back here—and stop this sham process while they still have a chance.
"Tax reform is an area where we can find bipartisan consensus—where we can work together to help the middle class and call on the wealthy to pay their fair share.
"This plan doesn’t do that—it does the opposite—but Democrats are at the table and ready to get to work if Republicans listen to their constituents, reverse course, and set aside this devastating plan.

Cantwell, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Bill to Further Understand and Promote Development of Artificial Intelligence, Drive Economic Opportunity

Press release issued 12/ 12/ 17

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Todd Young (R-IN), and Ed Markey (D-MA), along with Representatives John K. Delaney (D-MD) and Pete Olson (R-TX), introduced first-of-its-kind legislation that would promote an enabling environment for the continued development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The forward-looking bill, known as the Fundamentally Understanding the Usability and Realistic Evolution of Artificial Intelligence Act of 2017 – or FUTURE of AI Act – establishes a federal advisory committee to examine and wrestle with the economic opportunities and impacts emerging AI technologies will have in many aspects of American life.

AI technologies are evolving in capability and application at a rapid clip. Yet, the United States currently has no federal policy towards AI and no part of the federal government has ownership of the advancement of this technology.

“We expect that artificial intelligence will be an incredibly transformative force for growth and productivity.  We need to be ready for it,” said Senator Cantwell.
“Artificial Intelligence has the ability to drastically boost our economy,” said Senator Young. “As Americans continue to interact with this technology every day, and as its capabilities expand, it’s important that we study and prepare for AI’s continued use in our society.”
“While artificial intelligence holds the promise of providing goods and services more efficiently and effectively, increased automation has potentially broad negative impacts on our workforce and our privacy,” said Senator Edward J. Markey. “This bill serves as an important step in bringing together all stakeholders to better understand how this new technology will impact our lives. I thank Senators Cantwell and Young, as well as Representatives Delaney and Olson, for their partnership on this important bipartisan issue.”

“It’s time to get proactive on artificial intelligence,” said Congressman Delaney, co-chair of the House AI Caucus. “AI is going to reshape our economy the way the steam engine, the transistor or the personal computer did and as a former entrepreneur, I believe the impact will be positive overall. Big disruptions also create new policy needs and we should start working now so that AI is harnessed in a way that society benefits, that businesses benefit and that workers benefit. This bill starts the process, by bringing together experts and policymakers. As co-chairs of the AI Caucus, Rep. Olson and I are shining a spotlight on these issues and this bipartisan bill makes sure that both Congress and the Executive Branch get engaged on this topic. I thank Senator Cantwell, Senator Young and Senator Markey for their leadership in the Senate.”
Rep. Pete Olson said, “Artificial Intelligence has the power to truly transform our society, and as policymakers, we must be forward thinking about its applications. The AI Advisory committee will help ensure that the federal government enables growth and advancement in this exciting field, while empowering Congress to address potential AI issues going forward. I thank my AI Caucus Co-Chair John Delaney and our Senate colleagues for this collaborative effort and look forward to moving this bill forward.”
The FUTURE of AI Act names the Department of Commerce responsible for leading government policy on artificial intelligence and directs the Department to create an advisory committee tasked with submitting recommendations within 18 months on how the government and business can work together to address concerns in four key areas:
Potential growth, restructuring, and other changes for the U.S. workforce that result from adoption of AI, including potential actions to train and skill workers for an AI workplace
Protecting the privacy rights of individuals as AI continues to grow
Promoting a climate of innovation to ensure global competitiveness for American companies developing AI technologies
Supporting the development and application of unbiased AI
The AI advisory committee will pull from a wide array of sectors and perspectives. The committee will be comprised of civil liberties groups, labor groups, research institutions and universities, technology companies, the manufacturing sector, data scientists, and federal agency officials, among others.
"This is a very thoughtful and timely bill. Gaining the expertise to make wise and inclusive policy around artificial intelligence is absolutely critical. I applaud Senator Cantwell and her co-sponsors for their leadership,” said Ryan Calo, an associate professor at the University of Washington School of Law and the faculty co-director of the University of Washington Tech Policy Lab.

Editorial comment: Life imitating art? Reminds me of Battlestar Galactica, Cylons are coming! I've seen news stories about androids (robots) all over Face book, and some newspapers like New York Post, unreal, but who knows me may actually have android robots doing our bidding, in the distant future, in essence slaves!

( page 3) NEWS FROM OLYMPIA

Leading in the maritime sector: Washington launches Maritime Blue 2050 initiative--From the Governor's blog page 12/ 12/ 17

Ocean health and new technologies will play major roles in the future of the maritime industry, and state leaders want Washington’s $37.8 billion maritime sector and its nearly 70,000 employees to help lead the way.
Gov. Jay Inslee visited Seattle today to help launch the Washington Maritime Blue 2050 initiative, the first initiative of its kind in the United States to bolster innovations in the maritime sector that create living-wage jobs, protect the environment and ensure sustainability for the industry. Imagine ships and passenger ferries powered by electricity, zero-carbon-emission port terminals, more investments in research and development, and increased workforce training.
Studies predict that in coming decades, scientific and technological advances will play a crucial role in addressing ocean-related environmental challenges and ocean-based economic activities. Every segment of the state’s maritime sector will face changes, prompting leaders in government, research, businesses and academic communities to get involved in the initiative.
Washington’s maritime sector includes commercial fishing and seafood, recreational boating and sport fishing; shipping and cargo handling; shipbuilding, repair and maintenance; passenger ferries; military and defense; marine technologies; and maritime support businesses.
The initiative was made possible by a $500,000 grant to the Washington State Department of Commerce from the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s Regional Innovation Strategies program.
A key part of the initiative will involve training maritime workers for the science- and tech-heavy jobs of tomorrow. This is especially important as the industry faces a critical “age wave” in its workforce, with significant numbers of workers getting ready to retire in the next 10 to 15 years.
“Maritime activity has long been a pillar of our state’s economy, and we are uniquely positioned to lead the country in maritime innovation,” Inslee said. “This initiative allows us to show the nation that we can adopt new management practices and clean technologies while creating living-wage jobs for Washingtonians.”
Officials from the Washington State Department of Commerce, the Maritime Innovation Advisory Council and Norwegian based DNV-GL — a global maritime firm that is leading in maritime innovation — joined Inslee for today’s event. The advisory council will develop a comprehensive vision and strategic plan for the initiative. (read more from link source)

WA DEPT. OF REVENUE: New phone scam targets Washington businesses

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Dec. 5, 2017 – The Washington Department of Revenue is warning businesses to be aware of a new telephone scam.
The scammers fraudulently claim to be from Revenue and request over-the-phone payment to renew expired business licenses.
Revenue will never ask for or take payment for license renewals over the phone. The department mails businesses a notice about six weeks before their renewal is due and a delinquent notice a week after the license expires.
License renewals should be made through a business’s secure My DOR account.
Businesses that receive one of these fraudulent calls and want to check their license status should visit the My DOR website at http://secure.dor.wa.gov and log in to review their account information.
If a business is unsure about correspondence with the Department of Revenue or has questions related to this scam, they are asked to call 1-800-451-7985.
https://dor.wa.gov/about/news-releases/2017/new-phone-scam-targets-washington-businesses

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He's in your corner

Daily Bible Verse:  Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”

Luke 1:26-28 NKJV

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WORLD NEWS & EVENTS

Condemning Attacks on Aid Efforts, General Assembly Adopts Package of Texts, One Urging States to Better Protect Humanitarian Workers, Respect International Law

UN PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 12/ 11/ 17

The General Assembly today adopted seven draft resolutions, among them texts on credentials, the culture of peace and on strengthening the coordination of humanitarian and disaster relief assistance.

Condemning in the strongest possible terms the alarming increase in threats to and deliberate targeting of aid workers, the Assembly adopted without a vote the draft resolution “Safety and security of humanitarian personnel and protection of United Nations personnel” (document A/72/L.22).  By its terms, the Assembly urged States to make every effort to ensure the full implementation of the rules of international law that protect aid workers.
Also by the text’s terms, the Assembly called upon all Governments and parties in complex humanitarian emergencies in countries in which humanitarian personnel were operating to cooperate fully with the United Nations and other humanitarian agencies and organizations and to allow those personnel to perform efficiently their task of assisting the affected civilian population, including refugees and internally displaced persons.  It also called upon all States to consider becoming parties to relevant international instruments.
Prior to taking action on “L.22” as a whole, the Assembly, by a recorded vote of 95 in favour to 12 against, with 17 abstentions, decided to retain two paragraphs referencing the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.  Several speakers, including the representative of the Netherlands, speaking on behalf of the European Union, said that language related to the Court was worthy of inclusion.

Meanwhile, Sudan’s representative, whose delegation had requested the vote, warned against politicizing humanitarian efforts.  Stressing that the International Criminal Court was not a United Nations organ, he reiterated that it was instead “at best a threat to the peace and stability” in his country.
Also under the humanitarian assistance umbrella, the Assembly adopted, without a vote, three draft resolutions on:  international cooperation on humanitarian assistance in the field of natural disasters, from relief to development; strengthening of the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance of the United Nations; and assistance to the Palestinian people, which had been introduced on 8 December
Sharing the perspective of those providing aid, a representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), highlighted two worrying gaps in the United Nations indivisible new policy on prevention, development and peace.  The first was protection, as the policy focus rested on development and peace with recognition that protection was essential to both.  If people were being attacked, forcibly displaced, looted, impoverished, besieged, unlawfully detained or were too afraid to go to hospitals and schools, they would not attain development or peace.  The second gap was neutral, impartial and independent humanitarian action.  States must respect that essential practice — rooted in the Geneva Conventions — so that vulnerable people, both under or beyond the State’s control, could be protected and assisted impartially on the basis of need.
Raising another concern, a representative of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said risks driven by climate change would be unevenly weighted against poorer people living in areas of low development.  As such, she encouraged all stakeholders to ensure real progress by recognizing the added value of local actors in addressing and reducing disaster risks and impacts of climate change.
Turning to its agenda item on the culture of peace, the Assembly adopted the draft resolution “Promotion of interreligious and intercultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation for peace” (document A/72/L.29), reaffirming that interreligious and intercultural dialogue constituted important dimensions of the dialogue among civilizations.  It also condemned any advocacy of religious hatred that constituted incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence and underlined the importance of moderation as a value within societies for countering violent extremism and for further contributing to the promotion of interreligious dialogue, tolerance and cooperation. ( read more from link source)

Security Council Adopts Procedural Vote Allowing It to Hear Briefings on Humanitarian Situation in Democratic People’s Republic of Korea---UN PRESS RELEASE dated 12/ 11/ 17

Wrong Forum for Humanitarian Issues, Stress Opponents, as United States, Other Supporters Say No Separation between Peace, Human Rights
Amid the security challenges arising from the ballistic missile and nuclear testing activities of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, it was critical to address the dire human rights and humanitarian situation in that country as well, senior United Nations officials told the Security Council today.

“The international community has a collective responsibility to protect the population of the DPRK if the State does not protect its own citizens,” Miroslav Jenča, Assistant Secretary‑General for Political Affairs, said in his briefing.  It must also consider the wider implications of the reported grave human rights violations for the wider region’s stability.

Speaking after a procedural vote on whether or not the Council would hear the briefings, he called for a sustained focus on the humanitarian situation — including better monitoring, effective use of sanctions exemptions for humanitarian assistance and stepped up humanitarian aid — while security issues were addressed.  “Let us use all the tools at our disposal — the Human Rights Council, the General Assembly, the Security Council and other international entities — to take action to build a better future for the people of the DPRK,” he said.

Also briefing the Council was Zeid Ra’ad Zeid Al Hussein, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, who said escapees had reported widespread violations of human rights — including torture and deprivation of freedom of information and expression — in almost every aspect of people’s lives.  They were combined with increased surveillance and abject conditions endured by detainees in labour camps.  Military tensions in recent months had led to more severe controls over freedom of movement as well as civil and political rights, he said.

Repatriated escapees — often repatriated from China as economic migrants, although many were actually trafficking victims — were routinely subjected to multiple forms of torture, he said.  The people also endured severe violations of their economic, social and cultural rights, in addition to chronic food insecurity, due in part to the diversion of resources to military objectives.  The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) would act on the recommendations of the Human Rights Council’s Group of Independent Experts, he said, noting that the latter proposed monitoring the country more comprehensively in anticipation of the creation of an accountability mechanism.

Speaking earlier, the representatives of China, Russian Federation and Bolivia objected to the meeting, emphasizing that human rights did not fall within the Security Council’s remit — maintenance of international peace and security.  China’s delegate emphasized that human rights issues should not be politicized, describing the situation in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea as complex, sensitive and grave.  The concerned parties should consider the proposed “suspension‑for‑suspension” initiative and work towards restarting negotiations.

The Russian Federation’s representative warned against diluting the Council’s work with issues unrelated to its core mandate, and against politicization and double standards, all of which could erode its credibility.  The priority must be the peaceful settlement of the dispute, he said, stressing that today’s meeting must not be used as a pretext for greater foreign intervention on the Korean Peninsula. (read more from source link)

United Nations Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament, Development in Latin America, Caribbean to Host Inaugural Women and Security Symposium---UN Press release issued 12/ 11/ 17

NEW YORK, 11 December (Office for Disarmament Affairs) — The United Nations Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean is organizing the first “Symposium on Women and Security” from 12 to 13 December in Lima.
Expected to bring together more than 40 women from the region who have dedicated their work to advancing the global peace and security agenda, the Symposium aims to present future strategies of the United Nations system to promote women and security in the region; to deliberate on how 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can contribute to improving the lives of women in the region; and to explore different approaches to strengthening arms control to that end.  Throughout the event, ample time will be dedicated to identifying and sharing new ideas on empowering women working in the fields of peace and security.
The Symposium is made possible thanks to generous financial support from the Governments of Canada and Sweden.
The Symposium will also serve as a platform to launch “Forces of Change III:  Latin American and Caribbean Women Share Experiences on Disarmament, Security and SDG Implementation”, a publication of the United Nations Regional Centre, and the third edition of an innovative initiative highlighting the role of women as agents of change in the field of disarmament, arms control, and non‑proliferation of weapons of mass destruction in Latin America and the Caribbean.  Izumi Nakamitsu, High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, notes in her foreword:  " it is clear that the region is at the forefront of progress toward the full and equal engagement of women in peace and security discussions and decision-making”.   (read more from link source)



NEWS FROM THE UN NEWS CENTER

New Year could bring more misery to children in DR Congo’s restive Kasai region, warns UNICEF
12 December 2017 – New Year could bring more misery to children in DR Congo’s restive Kasai region, warns UNICEF In the coming year, severe acute malnutrition could claim the lives of more than 400,000 children under the age of five in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s volatile Kasai region, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned Tuesday.

On International Day, UN agency urges greater investment for sustainable agriculture in mountains
11 December 2017 – On International Mountain Day, the United Nations food security agency has called for greater focus on sustainable agriculture in highland regions around the globe to better respond to climate change impacts and migration challenges.

Make digital world safer for children, increase online access to benefit most disadvantaged – UNICEF
11 December 2017 – Governments and the private sector have not kept up with the game-changing pace of digital technologies, exposing children to new risks and harms – both on and offline – and leaving millions of the most disadvantaged behind, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said Monday in a new report.

Security tensions may have deepened rights violations in DPRK, Security Council told
11 December 2017 – People’s rights are reportedly violated in “almost every aspect” of their lives in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), the United Nations human rights chief warned Monday, stressing that security tensions on the Korean Peninsula should not negate concerns about the situation of ordinary people there.

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NEWS FROM THE US MISSION TO THE UN

Remarks at a Panel Discussion on Human Rights Abuses in North Korea, “North Korea Human Rights: The Terrifying Experiences of Forcibly Repatriated North Korean Women”

https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8211
" We have an interesting lineup of speakers for you today. Former Australian High Court Justice Michael Kirby is here. In 2014, Justice Kirby chaired the Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights in North Korea. The seminal report it produced described a regime so dedicated to murder, torture, deliberate starvation, enslavement, rape and forced abortion that it “does not have any parallel in the contemporary world.”
The report also noted that among the people who suffer most are those who are forcibly repatriated after attempting to escape North Korea. The vast majority of these returnees are women. They are subjected to torture, beatings, detention, and, in some cases, execution. If they are pregnant, they are forced to have abortions. If their babies are born, they are ordered to be killed.
Today we will hear the story of a woman who took on the North Korean security state and survived, Ms. Ji Hyeon-A. Ms. Ji was forcibly repatriated three times and imprisoned before escaping from North Korea for good in 2007. The details of her suffering at the hands of the North Korean state’s security apparatus are difficult to hear, but they are necessary to hear."---Ambassador Nikki Haley

Remarks at a UN Security Council Meeting on Human Rights in North Korea

https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8210
" The regime is using that power to develop an unnecessary arsenal and support enormous conventional military forces that pose a grave risk to international peace and security. Their menacing march towards nuclear weapons begins with the oppression and exploitation of ordinary North Korean people. Through the export of workers abroad to earn hard currency and the use of forced labor at home, the regime uses its people to underwrite its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

The government has developed a strict caste system designed to control and suppress the will of the people. The regime forces the North Korean people to work up to 14 hours a day, six or seven days a week, often with no compensation. Failure to report to an assigned job can result in imprisonment in a forced labor camp for six months to two years. NGOs have revealed video footage of children as young as five forced to carry out heavy labor in dangerous conditions, including work on railroad lines and in mines.

Meanwhile, the Kim regime not only builds nuclear weapons, it builds theme parks and high rises in Pyongyang for the elite and politically obedient, where they live in relative comfort. The remaining 85 percent of North Koreans must obtain permission to enter the city. The country is dotted with military checkpoints to ensure that everyone stays where the government wants him or her to be." ---Ambassador Nikki Haley

Remarks on the Adoption of the Agenda Following a Procedural Vote to Allow a UN Security Council Meeting on Human Rights in North Korea

https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8209
" Thank you, Mr. President. You know, this is an issue that is repeatedly a problem. We continue to think that there’s a separation between peace and security and human rights, and there’s not. If you go back in history, it is shown that any country that does not take care of its people ends up in conflict. We’ve seen that in multiple cases in multiple places.

As much as the Secretary-General and this Council talks about prevention when it comes to conflict, prevention is about how a country treats its people as well. If they start to treat their people carelessly, if they start to abuse their people, they will easily abuse other countries. And that’s what we’re seeing happen in North Korea.

So while I understand the concerns of some Council members, I think it’s extremely important that if we’re going to stay true to our word on prevention, then we stay true to our word that prevention also includes human rights and being able to call out countries when they do abuses like this.

So I suggest that not only should we do this today, but we should be doing this more often with other countries where we see these things coming up; we’ve seen this in Venezuela, we’ve seen it in Syria, these are things that if we truly care about prevention, human rights has to be at the heart of it." Thank you.--- Ambassador Nikki Haley

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United States and Cuba Hold Biannual Migration Talks in Washington, DC----US STATE DEPT. press release issued 12/ 11/ 17

https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2017/12/276448.htm

The United States and Cuba held the 31st biannual Migration Talks in Washington, DC on Monday, December 11. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs John Creamer and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Ed Ramotowski led the U.S. delegation. The Cuban delegation was led by Josefina Vidal, the Foreign Ministry’s Director General for U.S. Affairs.
The delegations discussed the significant reduction in irregular migration from Cuba to the United States since the implementation of the January 2017 Joint Statement. Apprehensions of Cuban migrants at U.S. ports of entry decreased by 64 percent from fiscal year 2016 to 2017, and maritime interdictions of Cuban migrants decreased by 71 percent. The United States confirmed it met its annual commitment in fiscal year 2017 to facilitate legal migration by issuing a minimum of 20,000 documents under the Migration Accords to Cubans to immigrate to the United States. The U.S. delegation also raised the need for increased Cuban cooperation in the return of Cubans with final orders of removal from the United States.
A strong migration policy is vital to the United States’ national security. The Migration Talks, which began in 1995, provide a forum for the United States and Cuba to review and coordinate efforts to ensure safe, legal, and orderly migration between Cuba and the United States. The talks were last held in April 2017.



NEWS FROM THE US DEFENSE DEPT:

Iraqi, Syrian Democratic Forces Destroy ISIS’ ‘Caliphate’
WASHINGTON, Dec. 11, 2017 — While Iraqi security forces and Syrian Democratic Forces have destroyed the idea of an Islamic State of Iraq and Syria ‘Caliphate,’ much work remains to be done against the terror group, Pentagon spokesman Army Col. Robert Manning said today.

Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq
SOUTHWEST ASIA, Dec. 11, 2017 — U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria over the last three days, conducting 14 strikes consisting of 27 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.

Small Army Post Supports Counterterrorism Fight in Africa
CONTINGENCY LOCATION GAROUA, Cameroon, Dec. 11, 2017 — At an Army outpost in a sun-scorched area of northern Cameroon, there's a small task force with larger implications than its size may suggest.

Reservists Bundle Christmas Joy for Remote Islanders
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam, Dec. 12, 2017 — Air Force reservists from the 44th Aerial Port Squadron here worked alongside the people of Guam on Dec. 9, filling boxes full of critical supplies as part of Operation Christmas Drop.

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He's in your corner

Daily Bible Verse: And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’”

Matthew 2:4-6 NKJV

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