THE PORT ANGELES GLOBE

Friday, October 2, 2020

PRESIDENT AND FIRST LADY TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID-19.

My thoughts and prayers goes out to them.

Memorandum from the President’s Physician

Mark Meadows Speaks with Reporters

Chief of Staff Mark Meadows speaks with reporters about President Trump’s announcement that he and first lady Melania have tested positive for COVID-19. He says the president is experiencing mild symptoms.--CSPAN VIDEO

The press reaction of the news that Trump tested positive for Covid-19:

Trump’s Illness Makes It Clear: This Election Was Always About the Virus

For all of the tumult of the race between President Trump and Joseph R. Biden Jr. — and for all of the other currents battering the country and its leaders in an election year — the issue of the virus has never retreated as the overwhelming factor.---NYT

Pelosi anticipates reaching economic relief deal, saying Trump diagnosis ‘changes the dynamic’--WP

Trump suffering ‘mild symptoms’ of COVID-19, cancels campaign events

Vice President Mike Pence tested negative, alleviating immediate concerns about the presidential line of succession should Trump’s symptoms worsen to the point that he is unable to perform his duties.---LA TIMES

Trump has COVID-19, is “fatigued,” given experimental drugs--Seattle Times

'I Hope He Dies,' Liberals Celebrate Trump's COVID Diagnosis---PJ MEDIA

Late Thursday evening, President Donald Trump announced that he and first lady Melania Trump had tested positive for COVID-19. Liberal critics pounced on the news, reacting by mocking Trump and hoping for his death.

NYT Mocks President and First Lady

In a tasteless display of partisanship, the Times bowed to its baser instincts.--Patriot Post

Hollywood Star Says Trump COVID News Made Him 'Leap in the Air with Joy'---WJ

In other headlines...

Kilmer, Colleagues Introduce Federal Worker Leave Fairness Act

Bill allows federal workers to keep the annual leave they have earned during a pandemic.

Press release issued 10/1/20

Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06), along with Representatives Jennifer Wexton (VA-10), Don Beyer (VA-08), Ed Case (HI-01), and Gerry Connolly (VA-11), introduced the Federal Worker Leave Fairness Act, legislation that will allow all federal workers to carry over the leave they have accrued when a national pandemic prevents employees from taking time off of work.

Federal workers that accrue over 240 hours of annual leave either lose the hours above the cap or have to attempt to use it before the end of the year. Using leave hours during a national pandemic may not be possible because a worker provides a critical government service for taxpayers, needs to limit exposure to COVID-19, or follows state and local restrictions to limit the spread of the virus.

“Federal workers at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard have been working tirelessly throughout this pandemic to maintain the Navy’s readiness to respond to national security threats and have avoided unnecessary travel to minimize health risks that could threaten this important work,” said Rep. Kilmer. “They shouldn’t have to sacrifice the paid leave benefits they’ve earned because they chose to prioritize national service. That’s why I’m joining Senator Hirono to introduce this bill to ensure that federal workers here at the Shipyard, and across federal agencies, are able to keep the unused paid time off that they have earned while also maintaining continuity of operations. Federal workers shouldn’t have to choose between working to support our nation or using their earned benefits before the end of the year.”

“With COVID-19 travel restrictions still in place across the country, taking time off to spend with family or visit loved ones is not an option for many federal employees across Virginia right now,” said Rep. Wexton. “Pandemics don’t line up with benefit years. That’s why I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation that would allow all of our federal workers to rollover their 'use it or lose it' time off at the end of this unprecedented year. They deserve to have their hard-earned benefits protected, particularly as many continue to serve on the frontlines of our government's response to this crisis.”

“Our legislation would allow federal workers increased flexibility with leave policies during the pandemic, boosting morale and helping ensure strong continuity of government operations,” said Rep. Beyer. “This is something my constituents really want, a simple fix that would help many families. I thank Rep. Kilmer for his leadership, and look forward to advancing this important bill.”

The Federal Worker Leave Fairness Act was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii), along with her colleagues Senators Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).

“Thousands of dedicated federal workers have been tirelessly responding to the coronavirus pandemic, including U.S. Postal Service employees, Internal Revenue Service and Social Security Administration workers, and National Institutes of Health researchers,” Senator Hirono said. “Our nation has leaned on them as they deliver medicines and Social Security checks, assist Americans with filing their taxes, develop a vaccine, and provide other vital services. This bill makes sure that no federal worker loses their leave because of this or any future pandemic.”

“During this pandemic, our nation’s federal workers—including researchers at NIH, workers at IRS and so many others—have been working hard to help fight the virus, provide important services, and keep us safe. They’ve been going above and beyond—and it’s unacceptable that their non-stop hard work could mean that they lose the paid leave they have earned,” said Senator Murray. “No workers should be stripped of benefits during a pandemic—and that absolutely includes public servants who are working on behalf of the American people. I’m proud to introduce this important legislation alongside Senator Hirono, to ensure that federal workers can carry over their leave after this unprecedented year.”

The Federal Worker Leave Fairness Act is endorsed by the National Treasury Employees Union, American Federation of Government Employees, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, Federal Managers Association, International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, FAA Managers Association, National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, National Federation of Federal Employees, and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

“Federal employees have continued serving the American people, whether in person or remotely, since the since the start of this pandemic, in many cases forgoing planned vacations or personal leave to ensure that the government’s vital services continue uninterrupted,” said American Federation of Government Employees National President Everett Kelley. “On behalf of the 700,000 government workers AFGE represents, I applaud Sen. Hirono for introducing legislation that would preserve annual leave for federal workers during the coronavirus or any other pandemic. I also applaud Representatives Wexton and Kilmer for introducing companion legislation in the House.”

“Too many of our nation’s civil servants, through no fault of their own, stand to lose paid time-off that they have rightfully earned, and we are pleased that Sen. Hirono and Reps. Kilmer and Wexton, with the Federal Worker Leave Fairness Act, have crafted a common-sense solution,” said Tony Reardon, National President of the National Treasury Employees Union. “Across the country, there are thousands of federal employees who were unable to use their annual leave because of pandemic-related obligations at work or restrictions on travel, and it would be wrong for them not to be able to save that leave for next year. We urge Congress to move swiftly on the Federal Worker Leave Fairness Act and help federal workers keep the leave they have earned serving the nation’s taxpayers,”

“FMA is proud to endorse Senator Hirono’s bill, which would provide certainty to all feds that the use-it-or-lose-it annual leave they dutifully earn throughout the year will not be unjustly forfeited due to unusual and unexpected circumstances, like this pandemic, that are completely out of their control. Senator Hirono is a strong friend of feds and we appreciate her leadership on this issue on behalf of all federal employees,” FMA National President Craig Carter said.

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES:

Countries face ‘critical moment’ in COVID response: UN health agency chief.

With strong leadership and comprehensive strategies it’s never too late for countries to change the trendlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, despite passing the tragic milestone of one million deaths this week amid regional surges in infections, said the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday.

Sudan alert: Flooding and surging inflation threaten humanitarian assistance

Catastrophic flooding and rising food and health costs in Sudan, have driven up the number of people in need, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said on Friday.

UN chief reiterates call for global ceasefire, marking International Day of Non-Violence.

The UN Secretary-General repeated his call for a global ceasefire on Friday, commemorating the International Day of Non Violence, which is taking place this year in the shadow of the devastating human and socio-economic impacts resulting from the coronavirus pandemic.

NATIONAL NEWS:

Proclamation on National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, 2020---WH

As technology continues to progress and new kinds of threats arise around the world, cybersecurity is playing an increasingly central role in our national security and daily lives. During National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we recommit to ensuring our Nation’s cybersecurity, and we raise awareness of the responsibility all Americans have to protect their Internet-connected devices, technology, and networks from cyber threats at work, home, and school.

The U.S.’ Action Against Belarusian Individuals Involved in Efforts To Undermine Belarusian Democracy--US STATE DEPT.

Department of Justice Files Statement of Interest Supporting Capitol Hill Baptist Church's Efforts to Practice its Faith During COVID-19

Constitution and Federal Law Require District of Columbia to Accommodate Church’s Efforts to Hold Socially Distanced Outdoor Worship Services--DOJ

BUSINESS & FINANCE NEWS:

Owner of Medical Laboratory Sentenced to Prison for Filing False Tax Returns---DOJ

A Shreveport, Louisiana, business owner was sentenced to 40 months in prison on Sept. 30, 2020, for filing false tax returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana Alexander C. Van Hook.

IRS provides details about settlements in syndicated conservation easement transaction initiative.

WASHINGTON — As the Internal Revenue Service continues combatting abusive syndicated conservation easements, the agency today released additional information to help address questions related to the ongoing settlement initiative.

Mortgage Market Regulation and Access to Mortgage Credit

At "Opportunities and Challenges for Homeownership," a Virtual Roundtable Discussion, Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana---THE FED

STATE NEWS HEADLINES:

Inslee statement on Boeing's decision to move 787 production to South Carolina

Editorial note: Inslee is clueless why Boeing is making this move. Could it be that Inslee, and the Mayor of Seattle made the atmosphere of chaos because of the lawlessness running rampid that business in Washington is to much of a risk? Or could it be all those tax hikes?

WDFW plans controlled burn on Oak Creek Wildlife Area.

SPOKANE – The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) will do controlled burns to restore habitat on the Oak Creek Wildlife Area in Yakima County starting as early as next week.

Initial unemployment insurance claims for week of September 20 - 26, 2020.

OLYMPIA – During the week of September 20 through September 26, there were 17,734 initial regular unemployment claims (down 9.4 percent from the prior week) and 530,360 total claims for all unemployment benefit categories (down 1.8 percent from the prior week) filed by Washingtonians, according to the Employment Security Department (ESD).

IN OTHER HEADLINES...

Mr. President, You’re Welcome to Do a Radio Rally Here---Rush Limbaugh Show

There's Still Time for Trump to Let Biden Trip, and Fail---NEWSMAX

Trump Approval Ticks Up in New Poll--PJ MEDIA

Melania Derangement Syndrome: Media Distort Leaked Phone Call---National Review

America’s Chris Wallace Problem--American Spectator

Michael Moore doubts Trump’s COVID-19 diagnosis: ‘He’s not above weaponizing this’--The Washington Times

Senate Republicans: Trump COVID-19 diagnosis won't stall Barrett confirmation---The Washington Examiner

Thursday, October 1, 2020

WALLACE ASKED TRUMP TO DENOUNCE RACISM, NAMING THE PROUD BOYS A RACIST GROUP...

While he doesn't ask Joe Bidden to denounce Antifa, or BLM.

Editorial Note: The media's narrative of the group "The Proud Boys" as being a racist group, is all bunk! The founders of the group deny that they are a racist group, they have members from all races. What makes them a "racist" group according the media narrative, they support Trump. If they were supporters of Biden, like Antifa, and BLM, they wouldn't have a problem with the group Proud Boys.

All last week you had the local papers screaming to the Proud Boys were coming to cities like Portland, and Seattle to hold a big demonstration, which ended up not happing. These cities were in a panic, yet they open to Marxist groups like Antifa, and BLM to riot and commit crimes. The following stories are reflective of the narrative of these city leaders hypocrisy allowing these Marxist group to come and cause chaos.

It also illustrates how the media pushes the false narrative that Trump is a racist, and his supporters are idot bigoted racist, and we are not!

The Proud Boys Flap Is Fake News

The media want to hang them around President Trump's "racist" neck.---The Patriot Post

Quote: " Most Americans have heard of Black Lives Matter and Antifa. But most Americans have not heard about a small group begun in Portland, Oregon, called the Proud Boys. So, naturally, debate moderator Chris Wallace teamed up with Joe Biden on Tuesday night to demand that President Donald Trump specifically denounce the Proud Boys and white supremacists generally. The Left media heard the dog whistle and saturated the proverbial airwaves with coverage of this obscure group, elevating it solely to attack Trump as a “racist.”

And it’s fake news.

Related stories from the DNC press:

Proud Boys in Northwest savor a boost from Trump’s callout during presidential debate--Seattle Times

Trump to far-right extremists: 'Stand back and stand by'---Seattle PI

Republicans Distance Themselves After Trump Fails to Condemn White Supremacy

The exchange on white supremacy provided one of the most inflammatory moments of a debate that President Trump hijacked with interruptions and mockery.---NYT

Samples news stories that destroys the narrative that Trump is a racist:

Trump Eviscerates the False Narrative About His Proud Boys Answer to White Supremacy Question--PJ Media

Note to AOC, Liz Warren, Kamala: Trump Is NOT a White Supremacist--PJ Media

The ‘Proud Boys’ Debate Moment: A Case Study in the Media’s Mishandling of Trump--National Review

TODAY'S TOP STORY...

Cantwell Calls for Justice Department to Investigate Pebble Mine Following Revelations in Leaked Tapes.

Press release issued 9/ 29/20

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) today called for a U.S. Department of Justice investigation to examine discrepancies between what company executives promoting the Pebble Mine in Bristol Bay, Alaska, said in recently-released tapes and how they characterized the project’s scope and plans in legally-binding documents, as well as congressional testimony:

“The Pebble Tapes make one thing very clear: the Pebble Limited Partnership will stop at nothing to build their disastrous mine, even if it means lying on their permit application, deceiving their investors, or possibly perjuring themselves in front of Congress. The Department of Justice should investigate what is disclosed in these disturbing Pebble Tapes.

“The science is clear—the Pebble Mine poses a direct threat to the world’s largest sockeye salmon fishery. Yet the Trump administration has consistently listened to politically connected corporate interests over scientists, so I remain unconvinced they will not someday greenlight this monstrous project.

“We must do everything we can to protect Bristol Bay salmon and the thousands of American jobs that depend on them. To that end, I would support legislation that would block Pebble Mine permitting until we can get to the bottom of these shocking revelations.”

At a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing in October 2019, Pebble Partnership CEO Tom Collier testified that “Pebble has no current plans, in this application or in any other way, for expansion.” Permitting documents Pebble Mine has submitted to the government would allow the mine to operate for 20 years, but what executives of the company say on the released tapes suggests the company has plans for a mine running for up to 200 years, with a planned expansion of the mine’s capacity after the first 20 years. Additionally, contradictory statements made by the company in their filings back in 2013 led Cantwell to request an investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) into whether the company misled investors. A recent New York Times analysis of video and transcripts of the leaked tapes described inconsistencies between the recordings and the company’s permit application currently under consideration by the Army Corps of Engineers.

Senator Cantwell has been the leading congressional opponent of the Pebble Mine, which threatens to irreparably damage hundreds of miles of habitat in the world’s largest sockeye salmon fishery. Every year, 40-60 million salmon return to the watershed, which supports thousands of fishing and tourism jobs throughout Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.

She has long fought to protect the Bristol Bay watershed and its important environmental and economic place in the Pacific Northwest. In January of 2014, she called on the Obama administration to protect Bristol Bay from mining after a report showed the proposed mine would threaten salmon runs and damage the commercial and recreational fishing industry. In July of 2014, Cantwell praised proposed science-based protections for the Bristol Bay watershed. In October of 2017, Cantwell and other members of the Washington state congressional delegation urged President Trump to listen to Washington fishermen and businesses before removing protections from Bristol Bay. In May 2018, Cantwell called on the Trump administration to hold public meetings in Washington state on the proposal and increase transparency for the permitting process. And in July 2019, Cantwell slammed the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw protections for Bristol Bay.

Earlier this year she applauded the president’s son for coming out against the mine and supported the Army Corps of Engineers’ determination that the mine could not move forward with its current proposal.

TODAY'S HEADLINE NEWS...

World News:

Top humanitarian award winner ‘nothing short of heroic’: UN refugee chief

An educator and rights defender who has spent more than 20 years rescuing exploited and trafficked children in Colombia, represents “the best of us”, the UN refugee chief said on Thursday, as she was named the winner of this year’s Nansen Refugee Award.

Stranded migrants need safe and dignified return, says independent UN rights panel.

Governments should immediately address the inhumane conditions in detention faced by migrant workers who are also being blamed for spreading the coronavirus, a UN panel of independent rights experts said on Thursday.

Deterring ‘atrocious crimes’ contributes to development: International Criminal Court President.

Deterring genocides, armed conflicts and other atrocious crimes supports sustainable development says the President of the UN-backed International Criminal Court (ICC) Chile Eboe-Osuji.

NATIONAL NEWS:

Presidential Message on National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, 2020--WH press release

Wisconsin-Based Nonprofit To Pay $1.9 Million To Settle Allegations Of False Claims And Kickbacks On Federal Contracts For Blind Workers

Industries for the Blind and Visually Impaired Inc. (IBI) has agreed to pay the United States $1,938,684.09 to resolve allegations that IBI violated the False Claims Act and the Anti-Kickback Act in connection with certain federal contracts set aside to employ blind workers, the Justice Department announced today. ---DOJ

SECRETARY BEN CARSON LAUNCHES ‘MUSTARD SEED SERIES’ VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS FOR FAITH LEADERS AND CONGREGATIONS

Events will feature testimonies from faith leaders who have launched housing initiatives for homeless neighbors---HUD

BUSINESS & FINANCE NEWS:

Treasury Department Issues Ransomware Advisories to Increase Awareness and Thwart Attacks--US TREASURY DEPT.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ANNOUNCES FIRST INDUSTRY-RECOGNIZED APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the U.S. Department of Labor announced Raytheon Technologies as the first Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Program (IRAP), a major milestone in this Administration’s goal to expand apprenticeships and create more job opportunities for American workers. The National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS) serves as the Standards Recognition Entity (SRE) overseeing Raytheon’s program. NIMS was recognized by the Department on Sept. 23, 2020, as one of the first SREs under the Administration’s new IRAP rule.--US LABOR DEPT.

Federal Reserve Board extends temporary actions aimed at increasing the availability of intraday credit extended by Federal Reserve Banks--THE FED

STATE NEWS HEADLINES:

Governors release joint statement on threats to American democracy.

We do not take for granted the sacred right of every American to cast a vote, and to have that vote counted, in the presidential election held every four years. It is a right that is foundational to our democracy and essential to the continuation of our constitutional system of government — something to be cherished, revered and defended by elected leaders at all levels.

Question: Will Inslee ever leave office? He is currently running for a third term as Governor!

Will he accept defeat if he looses to Clup?

AG FERGUSON CALLS ON UTC TO PROTECT WASHINGTONIANS FROM UTILITY SHUT-OFFS AMID COVID-19 PANDEMIC.

OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson issued a proposal that calls on the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) to, among other protections, ban utility late fees and utility service disconnections until at least April 30, 2021. These protections ensure vulnerable Washingtonians don’t lose the services they need to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic crisis.

History of Manchester Environmental Laboratory.

In Sept. 1982, Governor John Spellman directed state agencies to consolidate laboratory facilities at two sites in Olympia and Seattle. In a follow-up memo issued the same day, Spellman suggested paying special attention to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Region 10 facility in Manchester. According to the memo, Ecology’s director, Don Moos had built a relationship with EPA and could facilitate discussions and cooperation.

IN OTHER HEADLINES...

AOC Nixes Ceremony for Israeli Leader--PJ MEDIA

Voters Deserve to Know Where Joe Biden Stands on Court-Packing---National Review

Over 1,000 Honduran Migrants Form Caravan, Head for US---NewsMax

Democrats' New COVID Bill Removes Police Funding, Drawing GOP Outrage--WJ

WH: Trump 'Has Condemned White Supremacy More Than Any President in Modern History’--cnsnews

House Conservatives Call for Probe of China’s Ties to Black Lives Matter Co-Founder--Daily Signal

Trump proposes capping refugee admissions at 15,000 in historic low---The Hill

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

LIMBAUGH WAS SPOT ON ABOUT THE DEBATE LASTNIGHT.

Editorial Note: Yesterday on the Rush Limbaugh show, Limbaugh said that debate would show Bidden would show contempt toward Trump, and that happened. The monitor, Chris Wallace of FOX news became Biden's nurse maid. It was Wallace who said he wanted to be invisible, he ended up front and center of the debate.

Limbaugh also mention how the DNC press will cover it, he was right there too. Here is the transcript of yesterday's show.

The Debate Bar Couldn’t Be Lower for Biden (And I Still Think He Won’t Show)

Here is the video of the debate from CSPAN

Here are a view stories reflecting that:

With Cross Talk, Lies and Mockery, Trump Tramples Decorum in Debate With Biden

Interrupting Joe Biden nearly every time he spoke, President Trump made little attempt to reassure swing voters about his leadership. Mr. Biden hit back: “This is so unpresidential.”---NY TIMES

Biden says president has made U.S. more divided as Trump interrupts and slings insults

The bickering overwhelmed a debate that displayed substantive differences between President Trump and Joe Biden on the nation’s converging crises. The president’s interjections and jeers led moderator Chris Wallace to repeatedly plead with him to follow the agreed-upon rules.--Washington Post

Trump, allies hammer Wallace after tense debate--The Hill

Analysis: Trump needed the debate to change a race he’s losing; instead, he doubled down

Trump has tried for a year to find attack strategies that would throw Biden off stride. So far, none has done the job. At the debate, he just repeated them.---LA TIMES

Editorial note: That was just a few samples how the DNC press viewed last night's debate.

Here are a few stories from the right side media:

Here's How We Know Trump Won the First Debate--PJ MEDIA

President Trump didn’t always respond effectively or in a timely manner to Joe Biden’s false accusations. Biden’s insults and interjections were the polar opposite of presidential. Chris Wallace might as well have worn a Biden campaign button. But through all the noise of Tuesday night’s debate, complete with the usual partisan post-mortems featuring Biden supporters mostly assessing Biden as the winner of the debate and Trump supporters mostly assessing Trump as the winner, there seems to be a far better metric by which we can definitively determine last night’s winner.

Chris Wallace Just Gave The Most Embarrassing Moderator Performance In History

'Well, first of all, I guess I’m debating you, not him,' Trump said to Chris Wallace during Tuesday's 2020 presidential debate. Fact check: True.--The Federalist

The First Debate Showed Why Biden Will Win

Not being Hillary Clinton was enough for Trump to win in 2016. He doesn't have that virtue now.--National Review

Slow Joe’s So-So Show

Give him credit for surviving a 90-minute debate, but Biden’s mumbling, stuttering performance doesn’t inspire confidence.--American Spectator

TODAY'S TOP HEADLINE...

Poulos unanimously reappointed to head Statewide Reentry Council.

Washington State Commerce Dept.

OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington Statewide Reentry Council unanimously reappointed Christopher Poulos to serve a second three-year term as executive director. The decision by council members came after a successful first term of notable activities and accomplishments.

“I am incredibly honored that the council had the faith in my work and our progress to reappoint me for a second three-year term,” said Poulos. “Successful reentry and community reintegration occur when internal healing and growth is met with external opportunity. We remain committed to doing everything within our power to help facilitate both.”

Since Poulos’ appointment to this position in October 2017, he has worked with council members, legislators and advocacy groups to help secure the passage of 19 council-priority bills into law.

Additionally, he built strong interagency relationships, serving multiple state and national criminal justice-related task forces and working groups. He did this while also engaging with incarcerated people, community members and stakeholder organizations across Washington to promote successful post-incarceration reintegration.

Over this upcoming three-year term, which begins on Oct. 1, Poulos and the council have focused on six major categories of work: racial equity, housing, centering community, education, employment and improving communication. Currently, the council is working with multiple coalitions on legislation aimed at ending housing discrimination against individuals with criminal records and expanding voting rights to people living in our communities while remaining on community supervision.

As a response to COVID-19, the council provided direct funding to community organizations assisting with reentry efforts and held listening sessions to better connect resource providers throughout the state. The council has urged the Washington Legislature to continue expanding funding for community organizations to offer more support to these vital programs.

Additional council priorities include supporting efforts to reform community corrections, increasing “good time,” and expanding the Department of Corrections housing voucher program.

Poulos, who was formerly incarcerated, developed his expertise on addiction and criminal justice policy through life experience long before entering government work. As a teen, he experienced homelessness and substance use disorder, eventually resulting in a drug-related conviction and a three-year federal prison sentence. Following his release, Poulos graduated cum laude from the University of Maine School of Law.

During law school, he served as president of the American Constitution Society and represented youth facing criminal charges. He also served at the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy under the Obama Administration and worked with The Sentencing Project. Poulos also advised Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) on addiction and justice policy and served on several local, state and federal task forces related to criminal justice policy.

Before his executive director role for the Statewide Reentry Council, he served as executive director of Life of Purpose Treatment at the University of North Texas, where he was also an adjunct professor of Criminal Justice. Poulos has also recently served as an adjunct professor of Political Science at Seattle Central Community College and an adjunct law professor at Seattle University. Currently, his work promotes equal access to the law and seeks to end mass incarceration and the associated consequences now facing the tens of millions of people in the U.S. with criminal convictions.

The work of the Washington Statewide Reentry Council has garnered significant local and national attention since it was established in 2016, including an article about voting rights in the Harvard Law and Policy Review and stories in the Seattle Times, New York Times, NBC News and elsewhere. Poulos himself has openly shared his personal story with the Washington Post, NBC, Inside Olympia and others, and in a 2015 TED Talk.

TODAY'S NEWS HEADLINES...

World News:

UN chief, Prince Charles, rally ‘coalition of the willing’ to end biodiversity destruction.

Here's our special LIVE coverage of the UN Summit on Biodiversity, where activists and senior UN officials are calling for urgent action on biodiversity, to help ensure sustainable development for all.

Libyan rivals conclude talks on key security and military issues.

Delegations from Libya’s warring sides meeting in Egypt have concluded two days of security and military talks in efforts towards a lasting ceasefire, the UN political mission for the country, UNSMIL, has reported.

As historic virtual debate wraps, ‘our political leaders demonstrated their commitment to multilateralism,’ says UN Assembly President.

For the first time in the history of the United Nations, global leaders were not able to meet in person for the General Assembly’s annual debate, but the 193-Member body’s President said on Tuesday that the precautions forced by the COVID-19 pandemic “did not prevent multilateralism from operating at the highest levels.”

NATIONAL NEWS:

FDA Issues Final Guidance for Certain Labeling Recommendations for Breast Implants--FDA

DHS Wall Construction Update: September 29, 2020--DHS

BLUF: The Trump administration is building new wall and doing so faster than ever before. Currently wall construction continues at the southwest border (SWB) with the administration’s goal of 450 new miles of wall system on track for the end of the calendar year.

Trump Administration Proposes Down listing of Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Under Endangered Species Act.

FORT BENNING, Georgia – U.S. Secretary of the Interior David L. Bernhardt, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue and Fort Benning Garrison Commander, Col. Matthew Scalia, were joined by public and private representatives today to celebrate the proposed down listing of the red-cockaded woodpecker from endangered to threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).--Dept. of Interior

BUSINESS & FINANCE NEWS:

Agencies issue two final rules

Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System--THE FED

IRS provides final regulations on income tax withholding on certain periodic retirement and annuity payments.

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service today issued final regulations PDF updating the federal income tax withholding rules for certain periodic retirement and annuity payments made after Dec. 31, 2020.

Statement of FTC Bureau of Competition Director Ian Conner on Peabody Energy Corporation and Arch Coal’s Abandonment of Their Proposed Joint Venture.

STATE NEWS HEADLINES:

Public comment period extended for the Kalama second Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement--DOE

Winter recreational crabbing opens in several marine areas around Puget Sound beginning October 1.

USDA extends waivers: WIC continues to provide remote services--DOH

IN OTHER NEWS HEADLINES...

Clallam County weighs mining, environmental concerns

Public hearing continued on three potential laws--PDN

How Seattle’s mayor wants to close the revenue hole

Seattle's mayor outlines $6.5 billion in spending for 2021 that will cover COVID-19 relief programs and $100 million for communities of color.--Seattle Times

3 Seattle companies to provide thousands of meals to Seattle Public School students.--Seattle PI

Editorial note: You should see the portion size of these so called meals...a joke! Reminds me of the kind of meals Michelle Obama offered!

Did the first presidential debate help Trump or Biden? Here’s what betting odds show--The Olympian

Losing The Swiss hurts. It’s also a reminder Tacoma has bounced back before--Tacoma News Tribune

Sex ed mandate sparks bitter Washington state ballot fight--THE SPOKESMAN REVIEW

Debates set for Secretary of State, Superintendent of Public Instruction candidates--Bellingham Herald

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

SQUAD MEMBER OMAR, CAUGHT BUYING VOTES!?

Editor's Comment:

Every now and then I check the going on of the Antifa Squad, also known as AOC + 3, which now should be AOC +4, since a member of BLM was elected recently into congress.

Meet Cori Bush, the Black Lives Matter activist who just defeated a veteran Missouri congressman. CNBC News Letter

Ms. Bush adds to the AOC + 3 Antifa Squad of leftist thugs who wants to destroy this nation, and make it into a socialist nation.

But, to the point of the matter, it's Minn. Rep. Ilhan Omar is on the hot seat. Apparently, a video showing Omar's supporters are buying and selling mail in ballots!

Clearly, an example that she would do anything to keep her office, which is phatic to say the least.

Here are some news stories that reflect the hazards of all mail in ballots, and what can happen...

Ballot Harvester Claims Ilhan Omar Operatives Came To House, Was Paid To Vote For Her

“When we sign the voting document and they fill it out is when they give us the money. The minute we signed the thing [ballot] for the election. That’s when we get paid.”---Jeffrey Lord

Other related stories:

Minneapolis Police ‘Looking Into’ Explosive ‘Voter Fraud’ Allegations Following Project Veritas Video Involving Ilhan Omar Campaign---Daily Wire

OMAR in TROUBLE: Police Investigating ‘Ballot Harvesting’ Scheme in Minneapolis with Links to Ilhan Omar---Hannity.com

Ballot Harvester in Ilhan Omar's District: 'I Have Forty People,' Pay $800 Per Ballot---PJ MEDIA

N.Y.C. Deluged With Reports of Erroneous Absentee Ballots

A printing error has left voters scrambling for answers and could undermine their confidence in the New York City Board of Elections.--NYT

What we know about those discarded Trump ballots in Pennsylvania

We don’t know all the details, but it seems likely that it isn’t Democrats who are seeking to skew the election.---WP

Trump Does the Establishment Media's Job, Lists 7 Examples of Mail-In Voting Fraud--WJ

Editor's Note: THERE ARE WAYS TO PREVENT MAIL IN VOTER FRAUD!

Here in Washington State, it's all mail in voting. It's been that way for sometime. Personally, never felt that my votes don't count, nor did I ever received more than one ballot. But, I'll be watchful. The reason for my confidence? Because, I make it a habit to manually drop my ballot in the drop box inside the County Auditor's office, in the County Court house.

TODAY'S TOP STORY...

President Trump’s Letter to America’s Governors

Letter posted on the WH webpage:

To America’s Governors,

Over the last seven months, my Administration has worked tirelessly with Governors to respond to COVID-19. Through our work together, we have built a robust COVID-19 testing ecosystem, and I am pleased to be providing additional rapid point-of-care tests to continue to enhance our Nation’s testing system.

In March, I challenged American biotechnology companies to develop a rapid, inexpensive, and accurate test. Abbott Laboratories has now delivered. My Administration recently announced the purchase of 150 million Abbott Laboratories BinaxNOWTM rapid point-of-care tests. I am especially proud these tests are being Made in America, by Americans, and for Americans. Moreover, the swabs used for this test are available because of my Administration’s use of the Defense Production Act (DPA) to invest in domestic manufacturing. This is a major development that will help save more lives by further protecting America’s most vulnerable and allowing our country to get Americans back to work and children back to school.

Last week, we began deploying BinaxNOWTM rapid point-of-care tests to our Nation’s higher-risk, vulnerable populations. This included distributing tests to those impacted by natural disasters as well as to assisted living centers, nursing homes, HBCUs, and Native American communities. We will provide you a list of previous distribution locations in your state this week. My Administration will provide continual supplies of BinaxNOWTM tests for vulnerable populations through the end of the year.

In addition, we will be deploying 100 million tests to our Nation’s Governors free of charge between now and the end of the year. The tests will begin deploying this week, and States will be responsible for distributing and administering them. We hope you will use them in ways to further open up your states by protecting vulnerable people. For example, we all want our children to be physically back in school, so we are encouraged that many States are considering prioritizing these tests to support in-person education by testing teachers, aides, and administrators, particularly those at high-risk. Tests can also be used for frontline healthcare workers, those living in households with high-risk individuals, emergency responders, and those in high-risk communities, including African American and Hispanic American communities, or in any other way your States deem to be appropriate.

The United States is leading the world in testing, and we will continue to take a whole-of-America approach that harnesses industry and innovation to ensure America continues to save as many lives as possible. My Administration will continue to collaborate with States in our battle to defeat the virus until we have complete victory.

Thank you for your partnership to serve our fellow citizens.

Sincerely,

Donald J. Trump

Editor's note: It will be interesting to see what our Governor Inslee response will be.

TODAY'S HEADLINE NEWS...

WORLD NEWS:

Millionth death from COVID-19 ‘an agonizing milestone’: UN Secretary-General.

With over one million lives now lost to COVID-19 globally, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has said that while the “agonizing milestone” is a “mind-numbing figure”, the world must never lose sight of each and every individual life.

Protect the world from sliding into global recession, urges UN chief.

The economic and social consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic “are as bad as we feared”, the UN Secretary-General said, as he warned that the international community must act now if it is stave off a global recession, which could wipe out decades of development gains.

Food loss and waste ‘an ethical outrage’, UN chief says on International Day.

New approaches and solutions are needed to address worsening food loss and waste, the UN Secretary-General has said, in a message marking the first ever International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste Reduction.

NATIONAL NEWS:

Lakeway Regional Medical Center LLC And Co-Defendants Agree To Pay Over $15.3 Million To Resolve Allegations They Fraudulently Obtained Government-Insured Loan And Misused Loan Funds--DOJ

Secretary DeVos Announces Student-Centered Grant Awards to Spur Worker Development, Entrepreneurship, and Economic Growth During Coronavirus Recovery---Dept. of Education

Farmers to Families Food Box Program Surpasses 100 Million Boxes Delivered--USDA

BUSINESS & FINANCE NEWS:

Justice Department Files Suit Against Dallas, Texas, Towing Company for Unlawfully Selling Servicemember-Owned Vehicles

The Justice Department today filed a lawsuit in the Northern District of Texas alleging that Dallas-based towing company United Tows LLC violated the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), by unlawfully auctioning off vehicles owned by SCRA-protected servicemembers. ---DOJ

Boeing Cargo Planes Deliver to Battle Covid-19

On April 26, the Boeing Dreamlifter, a converted Boeing 747-400 Large Cargo Freighter, flew from Hong Kong to Greenville, South Carolina, with 1.5 million medical-grade masks destined for health care professionals at Prisma Health, the largest health care system in South Carolina. --US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AWARDS $29 MILLION TO CREATE WORKFORCE OPPORTUNITIES IN RURAL COMMUNITIES.

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced an award of $29 million to 27 grant recipients through the Workforce Opportunities for Rural Communities (WORC) program, in partnership with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and the Delta Regional Authority (DRA).---US LABOR DEPT.

IN OTHER HEADLINES...

Election Town Hall: Dave Ross and Dori Monson discuss Loren Culp’s chances at unseating Jay Inslee--MY NORTHWEST

A safety crisis inside Amazon’s warehouses

Internal records show Amazon has deceived the public on rising injury rates among its warehouse workers; its DuPont facility had the highest rates of any Amazon fulfillment center in the country last year.---Seattle Times

Will Seattle see a surge of people leaving for the suburbs?---Seattle PI

Sex ed mandate sparks bitter Washington state ballot fight--The Olympian

Sequim council passes ordinance to keep MAT appeal with hearing examiner

City council could hear appeals depending on decision timeline---PDN

Smoke again in forecast for Western Washington this week--Tacoma News Tribune

Vancouver Farmers Market vendors endure despite attendance drop--The Columbian

Analysis: In debate, a last chance for Trump to define Biden

As a presidential candidate in 2016, Donald Trump seized control of the White House race and never let go---The Columbian

Monday, September 28, 2020

Over the weekend Trump taps Judge Amy Coney Barrett for Supreme Court.

Readers, Two events happened over the weekend that was encouraging one, a prolife nominee to the supreme court Amy Coney Barrett for Supreme Court.

Replacing Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Here is the press release from the White House issued 9/26/20

Today, President Donald J. Trump announced his intent to nominate Judge Amy Coney Barrett of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit to fill the Supreme Court vacancy created by the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Judge Barrett has served as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit since 2017. Before becoming a judge, she was the Diane and M.O. Miller, II Research Chair in Law and Professor of Law at Notre Dame Law School, where her scholarship focused on constitutional and statutory interpretation and the Federal courts. Judge Barrett has also served as a Visiting Associate Professor of Law at the University of Virginia Law School and the John M. Olin Fellow in Law at George Washington University Law School. Earlier in her career, she practiced at the prestigious law firms Miller, Cassidy, Larroca & Lewin LLP and Baker Botts LLP. Judge Barrett clerked on the Supreme Court for Justice Antonin Scalia and for Judge Laurence H. Silberman on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. She is a magna cum laude graduate of Rhodes College in Tennessee and a summa cum laude graduate of Notre Dame Law School, where she graduated first in her class.

Judge Barrett is known for her keen intellect, piercing legal analysis, and generous spirit. Judge Barrett lives in Indiana with her husband Jesse and their seven children.

Here is the fact sheet from the White House on Barrett.

Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s Exceptional Legal Experience, Expertise, and Judicial Record Make Her the Right Choice to Serve on the Supreme Court

THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR THE COURT: Judge Amy Coney Barrett will serve the American people with honor and distinction on the Supreme Court.

Judge Barrett’s extensive experience as a professor and litigator, record of academic success, and outstanding judicial record make her an excellent choice to serve on the Supreme Court.

Judge Barrett is currently serving the American people on the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.

Judge Barrett has demonstrated a steadfast dedication to upholding the Constitution as written, and not legislating from the bench.

Judge Barrett’s excellent judicial record shows she will protect the rights of Americans and defend the rule of law.

Judge Barrett’s character and work ethic have earned her awards and bipartisan praise from the legal community.

Judge Barrett’s colleagues at Notre Dame Law School signed a letter supporting her 2017 nomination, calling her “a model of the fair, impartial and sympathetic judge.”

In 2017, a bipartisan group of law professors – including professors from Harvard and Stanford and other law schools around the country – urged the Senate Judiciary Committee to confirm Judge Barrett to the Seventh Circuit, describing her work as “rigorous, fair-minded, respectful, and constructive.”

The American Bar Association rated Judge Barrett as “well qualified” in 2017.

EXCEPTIONAL QUALIFICATIONS: Judge Amy Coney Barrett brings a wealth of experience from her time in private practice, academia, and public service.

Since 2017, Judge Barrett has served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit after she was nominated by President Trump and confirmed on a bipartisan vote.

Judge Barrett was appointed by Chief Justice John Roberts to sit on the Advisory Committee on Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure, where she served from 2010 to 2016.

After graduating from law school, Judge Barrett clerked for D.C. Circuit Judge Laurence Silberman and for Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia.

Judge Barrett practiced both trial and appellate litigation in Washington, D.C. at Miller, Cassidy, Larroca, & Lewin, and at Baker Botts.

Judge Barrett worked for more than 15 years in academia, shaping the next generation of legal minds and supporting the professional development of her students.

PROVEN RECORD OF SUCCESS: Judge Amy Coney Barrett has received numerous awards as a result of her excellence as a legal scholar and professor.

Judge Barrett graduated summa cum laude from Notre Dame Law School and received the Hoynes Prize for achieving the best record in scholarship, deportment, and achievement.

At Rhodes College, Judge Barrett graduated with multiple highly respected honors, including induction into Phi Beta Kappa.

At Notre Dame Law School, she received the John M. Olin Fellowship for aspiring academics and earned a tenure-track faculty position.

Judge Barrett was later awarded the Diane & M.O. Miller, II Research Chair in Law.

Three graduating classes at Notre Dame Law have selected Judge Barrett as the “Distinguished Professor of the Year.”

Judge Barrett served as a Visiting Associate Professor of Law at the University of Virginia Law School.

Judge Barrett’s scholarly work has been published in several prominent journals, including the Columbia Law Review, Virginia Law Review, and Texas Law Review.

Editor's Note: The DNC press attacked Barretton her Christian faith, proving the DNC press is bias against Christians.

Related news stories:

For Conservative Christian Women, Amy Coney Barrett’s Success Is Personal

Judge Barrett is a new kind of icon for some, one they have not seen before in American cultural and political life.---NYT

Why are you crying? I’m replacing your lady justice with another lady justice!--Washington Post

If Amy Coney Barrett joins, Supreme Court will have six Roman Catholics--LA Times

Editorial Note: The second story was in Washington DC they held a massive pray march. That was something to see, and hear thousands of prayers lifted up, seeking healing of our nation's troubles toward God.

On Saturday, in the throes of America’s turbulent 2020 election, thousands of Christians gathered on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., for the inaugural National Day of Prayer and Return, a calling to repentance and prayer for healing.

TODAY'S TOP HEADLINE...

Inslee announces new standards for airports in Washington.

From the Governor's Medium page

Airlines and airports embrace the baseline standard and expand their efforts to protect travelers and employees.

Gov. Jay Inslee announced today that Washington is setting new requirements for commercial airports and recommendations for airlines.

This is a statewide approach to the COVID-19 pandemic to help protect the health and safety of workers, passengers and crew in the aviation sector.

“The steps we’re taking will help protect those who need to fly,” Inslee said. “This guidance isn’t just about SeaTac — these requirements apply to airports across the state — Pullman, Spokane, Tri-Cities and Everett too.”

In addition to the new baseline guidance from the state, Delta Air Lines, Alaska Airlines and the Port of Seattle announced additional steps to protect the health and safety of airline passengers and staff.

The news was announced Thursday in a press conference. The governor was joined by Max Tidwell, vice president of safety and security for Alaska Airlines, regional vice president Tony Gonchar of Delta Air Lines and Lance Lyttle of the Port of Seattle, which manages SeaTac Airport.

Inslee has called for a uniform national standard around air travel in his letter to HHS and DOT. Although states’ authority is more limited than the federal government’s, Washington state’s new guidance sets a baseline standard for airports throughout the state.

The new Commercial Service Airport Requirements are a statewide approach to the COVID pandemic to ensure the health and safety of employees, passengers and crewmembers working and traveling in the state’s aviation sector. This approach encompasses setting baseline requirements at each commercial passenger service airport and encourages airlines to adopt certain health screening questionnaires.

The guidance will require face coverings in the airport; signage and spacing for physical distancing; protective barriers between travelers and workers; sanitizer and disinfectant protocols; and that airport vendors and businesses follow state and county health agency requirements.

It also strongly encourages airlines to establish health screening questionnaires for passengers regarding potential COVID-19 exposure or symptoms, and to require passengers abide by face covering and physical distancing requirements in order to be issued a boarding pass.

“Most airlines are already doing these things during the passenger check-in process, and I appreciate their commitment to continuing these important practices. These steps will help protect those who fly and the people who work in airports and on planes,” Inslee said. “I am grateful to Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines and the Port of Seattle for joining me in this announcement and for sharing the additional steps they are taking to protect the health and safety of Washingtonians.”

“We are grateful for Governor Inslee’s leadership in providing continuing assurances to air passengers in Washington about the minimum standards they will encounter throughout their journey. As part of our ongoing efforts to provide layers of protection for our customers and employees, we will pilot a temperature screening process for our customers flying out of SeaTac beginning Oct. 1. Customers who have a temperature of 100.4 or higher will not be allowed to board consistent with the CDC’s fever threshold. Meanwhile, we have implemented more than 100 other measures as layers of protection from the moment you check-in for your flight to the moment you retrieve your bag at your destination known as the Delta Care Standard,” said Tony Gonchar, vice president, Delta, Seattle.

“Alaska Airlines and our 10,000+ Washington-based employees greatly appreciate Governor Inslee’s support to keep Washingtonians safe and support critical infrastructures like commercial aviation, which is vital to the well-being of our economy,” said Max Tidwell, Alaska Airlines’ vice president of safety. “COVID-19 has fundamentally changed travel and we’re adapting. Our Next-Level Care program includes more than 100 safety actions designed to protect our guests and employees. From helping guests with pre-travel COVID testing options, to piloting temperature screening programs and rolling out new touch-free travel technology, we’ve adapted to make flying safe.”

“The Port of Seattle deeply appreciates Governor Inslee’s support and these common-sense protocols to keep passengers, employees, and our community healthy and safe. At Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), guided by the leadership of our Port of Seattle Commission, since early spring we implemented and evaluated a wide range of new FlyHealthy@SEA protocols. We will continue to rely on science and partnership to maintain the health and wellbeing of our community, employee and passengers, and urge our federal leaders to help us drive a uniform, national approach to airport health and safety,” said Sea-Tac Airport managing director Lance Lyttle.

TODAY'S HEADLINE NEWS....

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES:

Most countries failing to protect women from COVID-19 economic and social fallout.

The COVID-19 pandemic is “hitting women hard”, but most nations are failing to provide sufficient social and economic protection for them, the head of the UN gender empowerment agency said on Monday.

‘Eyes and ears’ of Human Rights Council facing funding crisis.

The work of UN-appointed independent rights experts is at risk from a critical lack of funding, they warned on Monday.

Ahead of biodiversity summit, UN officials call for action to preserve the natural world.

Top UN officials working to preserve the natural world are urging “action now” ahead of a crucial biodiversity summit this week, where world leaders will reaffirm their commitment to the cause.

NATIONAL HEADLINES:

President Donald J. Trump Is Implementing His America First Healthcare Agenda.--WH Fact Sheet

U.S.-Greece Science and Technology Agreement---US STATE DEPT.

The U.S.-Greece Science and Technology Agreement was signed by U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo and Greece’s Minister of Development and Investments Adonis Georgiadis, accompanied by U.S. Chief Technology Officer Michael Kratsios and Deputy Minister of Development and Investments Christos Dimas at a ceremony in Thessaloniki, Greece, on September 28, 2020.