Source: Alliance for American Manufacturing
Washington, D.C. - September 3, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The manufacturing sector gained 36,000 jobs in August, according to the latest employment data from the Labor Department. These factory jobs gains, led by automotive and appliance sales, come amid a strong second quarter of economic expansion.
Said Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM) President Scott Paul:
"Did the robot revolution take the month off?
"Adding 36,000 new factory jobs in August is good news for American workers. For the first time in a long time, manufacturing punched above its weight in the job market, accounting for 23 percent of total job growth. There’s great potential for continued manufacturing job growth – but only if we get the policy right.
"How can we keep up the momentum? Pass an infrastructure bill with strong Buy America preferences to put more people back to work. The administration must also invest in training the workers of the future, move forward with rebalancing trade, and hold China accountable."
The Unpopular Truth
Sunday, September 3, 2017
Work Requirements Restored for TANF
Source: Administration for Children and Families
Washington, D.C. - September 3, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The restoration of work participation requirements under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program was announced today with an information memorandum to states. Issued by the Office of Family Assistance at HHS’ Administration for Children and Families, the new policy rescinds a 2012 Obama administration information memorandum encouraging states to apply for exemptions from the longstanding work participation standards for welfare cash assistance programs.
“Reemphasizing the work requirements in the welfare program means once again promoting gainful employment and economic independence as goals for every family,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Children and Families Steven Wagner. “The waiver option offered by the Obama administration is being replaced today by an expectation that work should always be encouraged as a condition for receiving welfare.”
An information memorandum issued to state and territorial agencies today rescinds an information memorandum from July 12, 2012 inviting states to pursue waivers from the requirement for a state to ensure “parents and caretakers receiving assistance under the program engage in work activities.” Only one state, Ohio, applied for such a waiver, in October 2015 (and again in May 2017). The state was informed today that its application from nearly two years ago, which inexplicably sat idle under the previous administration, has been denied.
“Our agency is committed to helping low-income families transition from welfare to work,” said Office of Family Assistance Director Clarence Carter. “We cannot achieve the goal of self-sufficiency if meaningful work participation is divorced from welfare cash assistance.”
View the new information memorandum to state welfare offices.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program
Washington, D.C. - September 3, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The restoration of work participation requirements under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program was announced today with an information memorandum to states. Issued by the Office of Family Assistance at HHS’ Administration for Children and Families, the new policy rescinds a 2012 Obama administration information memorandum encouraging states to apply for exemptions from the longstanding work participation standards for welfare cash assistance programs.
“Reemphasizing the work requirements in the welfare program means once again promoting gainful employment and economic independence as goals for every family,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Children and Families Steven Wagner. “The waiver option offered by the Obama administration is being replaced today by an expectation that work should always be encouraged as a condition for receiving welfare.”
An information memorandum issued to state and territorial agencies today rescinds an information memorandum from July 12, 2012 inviting states to pursue waivers from the requirement for a state to ensure “parents and caretakers receiving assistance under the program engage in work activities.” Only one state, Ohio, applied for such a waiver, in October 2015 (and again in May 2017). The state was informed today that its application from nearly two years ago, which inexplicably sat idle under the previous administration, has been denied.
“Our agency is committed to helping low-income families transition from welfare to work,” said Office of Family Assistance Director Clarence Carter. “We cannot achieve the goal of self-sufficiency if meaningful work participation is divorced from welfare cash assistance.”
View the new information memorandum to state welfare offices.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program
Sacramento Paying Gangs to Stay Peaceful
Source: Fox 40
After a violent weekend of suspected gang-related shootings, Tuesday the Sacramento City Council took action to reduce the bloodshed.
It approved a controversial program called Advance Peace, which offers cash stipends to gang members who remain peaceful.
After a violent weekend of suspected gang-related shootings, Tuesday the Sacramento City Council took action to reduce the bloodshed.
It approved a controversial program called Advance Peace, which offers cash stipends to gang members who remain peaceful.
Read more...
Friday, September 1, 2017
After Harvey, the Trump administration reconsiders flood rules it just rolled back
Source: The Washington Post
A couple of weeks ago President Trump scrapped Obama-era rules, intended to reduce the risks posed by flooding, that established new construction standards for roads, housing and other infrastructure projects that receive federal dollars.
Trump derided these restrictions, which were written in response to growing concerns over the impact of climate change, and other federal rules as useless red tape holding back the economy.
A couple of weeks ago President Trump scrapped Obama-era rules, intended to reduce the risks posed by flooding, that established new construction standards for roads, housing and other infrastructure projects that receive federal dollars.
Trump derided these restrictions, which were written in response to growing concerns over the impact of climate change, and other federal rules as useless red tape holding back the economy.
Read more...
White House Petition to Declare Soros a Terrorist Has Over 60k Signatures!
Source: TruthFeed
Finally, there’s a White House petition that’s calling on President Trump to declare radical leftist George Soros a terrorist and seize the assets of organizations tied to him.
Finally, there’s a White House petition that’s calling on President Trump to declare radical leftist George Soros a terrorist and seize the assets of organizations tied to him.
Read more...
Trump Issues Ntl Day of Prayer Proclamation for Harvey Victims and First Responders
Source: The White House; President Donald J. Trump
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER FOR THE VICTIMS OF HURRICANE HARVEY AND FOR OUR NATIONAL RESPONSE AND RECOVERY EFFORTS
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Hurricane Harvey first made landfall as a Category 4 storm near Rockport, Texas, on the evening of August 25, 2017. The storm has since devastated communities in both Texas and Louisiana, claiming many lives, inflicting countless injuries, destroying or damaging tens of thousands of homes, and causing billions of dollars in damage. The entire Nation grieves with Texas and Louisiana. We are deeply grateful for those performing acts of service, and we pray for healing and comfort for those in need.
Americans have always come to the aid of their fellow countrymen -- friend helping friend, neighbor helping neighbor, and stranger helping stranger -- and we vow to do so in response to Hurricane Harvey. From the beginning of our Nation, Americans have joined together in prayer during times of great need, to ask for God's blessings and guidance. This tradition dates to June 12, 1775, when the Continental Congress proclaimed a day of prayer following the Battles of Lexington and Concord, and April 30, 1789, when President George Washington, during the Nation's first Presidential inauguration, asked Americans to pray for God's protection and favor.
When we look across Texas and Louisiana, we see the American spirit of service embodied by countless men and women. Brave first responders have rescued those stranded in drowning cars and rising water. Families have given food and shelter to those in need. Houses of worship have organized efforts to clean up communities and repair damaged homes. Individuals of every background are striving for the same goal -- to aid and comfort people facing devastating losses. As Americans, we know that no challenge is too great for us to overcome.
As response and recovery efforts continue, and as Americans provide much needed relief to the people of Texas and Louisiana, we are reminded of Scripture's promise that "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Melania and I are grateful to everyone devoting time, effort, and resources to the ongoing response, recovery, and rebuilding efforts. We invite all Americans to join us as we continue to pray for those who have lost family members or friends, and for those who are suffering in this time of crisis.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim September 3, 2017, as a National Day of Prayer for the Victims of Hurricane Harvey and for our National Response and Recovery Efforts. We give thanks for the generosity and goodness of all those who have responded to the needs of their fellow Americans. I urge Americans of all faiths and religious traditions and backgrounds to offer prayers today for all those harmed by Hurricane Harvey, including people who have lost family members or been injured, those who have lost homes or other property, and our first responders, law enforcement officers, military personnel, and medical professionals leading the response and recovery efforts. Each of us, in our own way, may call upon our God for strength and comfort during this difficult time. I call on all Americans and houses of worship throughout the Nation to join in one voice of prayer, as we seek to uplift one another and assist those suffering from the consequences of this terrible storm.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand seventeen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-second.
DONALD J. TRUMP
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Hurricane Harvey first made landfall as a Category 4 storm near Rockport, Texas, on the evening of August 25, 2017. The storm has since devastated communities in both Texas and Louisiana, claiming many lives, inflicting countless injuries, destroying or damaging tens of thousands of homes, and causing billions of dollars in damage. The entire Nation grieves with Texas and Louisiana. We are deeply grateful for those performing acts of service, and we pray for healing and comfort for those in need.
Americans have always come to the aid of their fellow countrymen -- friend helping friend, neighbor helping neighbor, and stranger helping stranger -- and we vow to do so in response to Hurricane Harvey. From the beginning of our Nation, Americans have joined together in prayer during times of great need, to ask for God's blessings and guidance. This tradition dates to June 12, 1775, when the Continental Congress proclaimed a day of prayer following the Battles of Lexington and Concord, and April 30, 1789, when President George Washington, during the Nation's first Presidential inauguration, asked Americans to pray for God's protection and favor.
When we look across Texas and Louisiana, we see the American spirit of service embodied by countless men and women. Brave first responders have rescued those stranded in drowning cars and rising water. Families have given food and shelter to those in need. Houses of worship have organized efforts to clean up communities and repair damaged homes. Individuals of every background are striving for the same goal -- to aid and comfort people facing devastating losses. As Americans, we know that no challenge is too great for us to overcome.
As response and recovery efforts continue, and as Americans provide much needed relief to the people of Texas and Louisiana, we are reminded of Scripture's promise that "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Melania and I are grateful to everyone devoting time, effort, and resources to the ongoing response, recovery, and rebuilding efforts. We invite all Americans to join us as we continue to pray for those who have lost family members or friends, and for those who are suffering in this time of crisis.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim September 3, 2017, as a National Day of Prayer for the Victims of Hurricane Harvey and for our National Response and Recovery Efforts. We give thanks for the generosity and goodness of all those who have responded to the needs of their fellow Americans. I urge Americans of all faiths and religious traditions and backgrounds to offer prayers today for all those harmed by Hurricane Harvey, including people who have lost family members or been injured, those who have lost homes or other property, and our first responders, law enforcement officers, military personnel, and medical professionals leading the response and recovery efforts. Each of us, in our own way, may call upon our God for strength and comfort during this difficult time. I call on all Americans and houses of worship throughout the Nation to join in one voice of prayer, as we seek to uplift one another and assist those suffering from the consequences of this terrible storm.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand seventeen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-second.
Governor Abbott Announces Day Of Prayer In Texas After Hurricane Harvey
Source: Texas Governor Gregg Abbott
Austin, TX - September 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation announcing September 3, 2017, as a Day of Prayer in Texas. In his proclamation, the Governor urged Texans of all faiths and religious traditions and backgrounds to offer prayers on that day for the safety of first responders, public safety officers, and military personnel, and for the healing of individuals, rebuilding of communities and the restoration of the entire region struck by this disaster.
"Throughout our history, Texans have been strengthened and lifted through prayer, and it is fitting that Texans join together in prayer in this time of crisis," said Governor Abbott. "Throughout this disaster, we have seen the power of Texans helping Texans, and I am hopeful this proclamation will bring people together once more. We have remained strong throughout this ordeal, and this Day of Prayer will make us even stronger together."
Governor Abbott announced the Day of Prayer at an event today at First Baptist church in Rockport, TX with Vice President Mike Pence and Reverend Franklin Graham.
Austin, TX - September 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation announcing September 3, 2017, as a Day of Prayer in Texas. In his proclamation, the Governor urged Texans of all faiths and religious traditions and backgrounds to offer prayers on that day for the safety of first responders, public safety officers, and military personnel, and for the healing of individuals, rebuilding of communities and the restoration of the entire region struck by this disaster.
"Throughout our history, Texans have been strengthened and lifted through prayer, and it is fitting that Texans join together in prayer in this time of crisis," said Governor Abbott. "Throughout this disaster, we have seen the power of Texans helping Texans, and I am hopeful this proclamation will bring people together once more. We have remained strong throughout this ordeal, and this Day of Prayer will make us even stronger together."
Governor Abbott announced the Day of Prayer at an event today at First Baptist church in Rockport, TX with Vice President Mike Pence and Reverend Franklin Graham.
TX Governor says Price Gouging Illegal
Source: Texas Governor Gregg Abbott
Austin, TX - September 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Governor Greg Abbott has issued a proclamation reaffirming Texas' firm stance against price-gouging across the entire state in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. Texas law strictly prohibits price-gouging and gives the Attorney General the authority to prosecute anyone exploiting a declared disaster by charging exorbitant amounts for food, fuel, or other necessities. In his proclamation, the Governor assures Texans that the Attorney General and other law enforcement officers will seek to identify and prosecute those who use price-gouging to take advantage of the public during this crisis.
"Price-gouging is unlawful throughout Texas, and I will work with Attorney General Ken Paxton to ensure all who engage in this reprehensible act are vigorously prosecuted," said Governor Abbott. "Taking advantage of victims of Hurricane Harvey is indefensible and Texas will punish these lawbreakers to the fullest extent of the law. We must be helping our fellow Texans in need, not seeking to exploit their struggles."
Austin, TX - September 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Governor Greg Abbott has issued a proclamation reaffirming Texas' firm stance against price-gouging across the entire state in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. Texas law strictly prohibits price-gouging and gives the Attorney General the authority to prosecute anyone exploiting a declared disaster by charging exorbitant amounts for food, fuel, or other necessities. In his proclamation, the Governor assures Texans that the Attorney General and other law enforcement officers will seek to identify and prosecute those who use price-gouging to take advantage of the public during this crisis.
"Price-gouging is unlawful throughout Texas, and I will work with Attorney General Ken Paxton to ensure all who engage in this reprehensible act are vigorously prosecuted," said Governor Abbott. "Taking advantage of victims of Hurricane Harvey is indefensible and Texas will punish these lawbreakers to the fullest extent of the law. We must be helping our fellow Texans in need, not seeking to exploit their struggles."
DUNN, FLORIDA REPS. URGE NEW TRADE REMEDIES TO PROTECT FLORIDA AGRICULTURE
Source: House Representative Neal Dunn (R-FL, 2nd)
Washington, D.C. - September 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- As NAFTA renegotiations continue this weekend in Mexico City, Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02), led a group of 20 Florida House members in support of the Administration’s efforts to protect Florida agriculture from Mexico’s unfair trading practices.
“The new rules for seasonal and perishable products” sought by the Administration, the lawmakers wrote to U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, “will ensure that these producers, who can only sell during certain periods of the year and are especially vulnerable to trade surges, have recourse to viable trade remedies when faced with unfair trade practices.”
The remedies sought include a “separate domestic industry provision for perishable and seasonal products” in countervailing duty and anti-dumping suits.
“We applaud the Administration’s support for U.S. perishable and seasonal sectors and stand ready to work with the Administration on improving trade remedy coverage for these sectors…” the lawmakers stated.
Washington, D.C. - September 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- As NAFTA renegotiations continue this weekend in Mexico City, Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02), led a group of 20 Florida House members in support of the Administration’s efforts to protect Florida agriculture from Mexico’s unfair trading practices.
“The new rules for seasonal and perishable products” sought by the Administration, the lawmakers wrote to U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, “will ensure that these producers, who can only sell during certain periods of the year and are especially vulnerable to trade surges, have recourse to viable trade remedies when faced with unfair trade practices.”
The remedies sought include a “separate domestic industry provision for perishable and seasonal products” in countervailing duty and anti-dumping suits.
“We applaud the Administration’s support for U.S. perishable and seasonal sectors and stand ready to work with the Administration on improving trade remedy coverage for these sectors…” the lawmakers stated.
DeGette to Ryan on DACA legislation: What are we waiting for?
Source: House Representative Diana DeGette (D-CO, 1st)
Denver, CO - September 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- In response to House Speaker Paul Ryan’s statement that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is something Congress has to engage in rather than the President simply ending it, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO), Chief Deputy Whip said, “What are we waiting for?”
“Speaker Ryan has been sitting on legislation that would help DACA recipients remain productive members of our community and seek a pathway to citizenship,” DeGette said. “Now that it looks likely that President Trump will soon end the program, Mr. Ryan is finally moved to act. Well, Mr. Speaker, what are we waiting for? Let’s put legislation on the House floor next week.”
DeGette is a co-sponsor of the BRIDGE Act (H.R. 496), which would ensure that DACA recipients’ status in this country will be extended for at least another three years, as well as the bipartisan American Hope Act (H.R. 3591), which would prevent those qualified for DACA from being deported.
“There are 800,000 DREAMers nationwide, including more than 17,000 in Colorado,” DeGette said. “When President Obama established the program in 2012, he made a promise to these young men and women that America would help them remain productive members of our communities and provide a pathway to citizenship. President Trump may be ready to break this promise, but those of us who still believe in DACA’s goals will continue our efforts to fulfill them.”
Denver, CO - September 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- In response to House Speaker Paul Ryan’s statement that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is something Congress has to engage in rather than the President simply ending it, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO), Chief Deputy Whip said, “What are we waiting for?”
“Speaker Ryan has been sitting on legislation that would help DACA recipients remain productive members of our community and seek a pathway to citizenship,” DeGette said. “Now that it looks likely that President Trump will soon end the program, Mr. Ryan is finally moved to act. Well, Mr. Speaker, what are we waiting for? Let’s put legislation on the House floor next week.”
DeGette is a co-sponsor of the BRIDGE Act (H.R. 496), which would ensure that DACA recipients’ status in this country will be extended for at least another three years, as well as the bipartisan American Hope Act (H.R. 3591), which would prevent those qualified for DACA from being deported.
“There are 800,000 DREAMers nationwide, including more than 17,000 in Colorado,” DeGette said. “When President Obama established the program in 2012, he made a promise to these young men and women that America would help them remain productive members of our communities and provide a pathway to citizenship. President Trump may be ready to break this promise, but those of us who still believe in DACA’s goals will continue our efforts to fulfill them.”
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