The LuLac Edition #4, 992, August 18h, 2023

 

THE TRUMP ELECTION TEAM: A CRIMINAL ORGANIZATION 

  

Former President Donald Trump and a network of his allies are accused of operating a criminal enterprise to overturn the 2020 election in a sweeping 41-count indictment brought by a Georgia grand jury.

 The indictment late Monday led by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis − the fourth to target Trump spanning federal and state courts − takes aim not just at the president but 18 co-defendants. Trump decried the charges as "another witch hunt" on his social media platform Truth Social.

But the case poses an especially serious threat because, unlike Trump's two federal indictments, a conviction in Georgia state court could not be subject to a future presidential pardon.

The key distinction of the Georgia indictment is that Willis charged Trump under the state's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, or RICO, a law that is historically used to take down drug operations and gangs.

RICO allows a prosecutor to combine multiple suspected crimes into one charge: racketeering. In  Georgia under law designed to nab Mafia bosses. What it means for case.

Georgia prosecutors argue Trump and his allies constituted a "criminal organization" whose members engaged in a wide range of criminal activity − including providing false statements and writings, impersonating a public officer, forgery and computer theft − with the goal of overturning the 2020 presidential election results in Georgia and other states won by Joe Biden.

 

 

PENCE AIMS FOR HISTORY

 Mike Pence (Photo: LuLac archives)

 Former Vice President Mike Pence may not win the Republican nomination for President but his recent change of tactics regarding January 6th and other ancillary issues concerning 2020 show he might be wanting to be on the right side of history. Furthermore, unlike other GOP contenders, he is staking out a more moderate position that can serve him well down the road.

In his first comments since Monday night's indictment of former President Donald Trump on 13 counts related to his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results in Georgia, former Vice President Mike Pence reiterated that the election was not stolen.

 "Despite what the former president and his allies have said for now more than two and a half years and continue to insist… the Georgia election was not stolen and I had no right to overturn the election on Jan. 6," the former vice president emphasized while speaking in front of a large gathering of state lawmakers meeting in Indianapolis at the National Conference of State Legislatures.

 Many on the left are making fun of Pence as he approaches the first GOP debate. Low on money and down in the polls, Pence doesn't look like much but it is still early and his experience as well as consistent message just might surprise some experts. Win or lose, Pence is inching toward the right-side of history.  (LuLac, Fox News). 

 

Pointing to his former running mate, Pence said "no one is above law."

 

I KNEW HIM WHEN HE GOT PAID FOR LEGAL FEES..NOT ASKING FOR MONEY TO PAY HIS OWN

CARTWRIGHT ANNOUNCES $16.62 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING HE SECURED RELEASED TO UNIVERSITY OF SCRANTON

Congressman Matt Cartwright (Photo: LuLac archives)

Rep. Matt Cartwright (PA-08) announced the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has authorized the release of $16.62 million in Community Project Funding dollars to support a new facility for workforce development, applied research and outreach in health, behavioral science and cybersecurity on the campus of The University of Scranton.

“As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Commerce, Justice, and Science Subcommittee, I’m committed to bringing home every penny of our fair share of federal tax dollars to ensure our region is positioned to grow while creating good-paying jobs,” said Rep. Cartwright. “The University of Scranton plans to build a brighter future for area residents by launching a center for workforce development and applied research in health, science and cybersecurity.” 

The University of Scranton is finalizing plans for the new building, which will be located on University-owned property on the 300 block of Madison Avenue, directly across the street from Brennan Hall.

“Our project is intended to serve as a nexus between the University and our community, facilitating workforce development, outreach and applied research in the critical areas of cybersecurity, behavioral science and health. The building will serve as a hub for future program development.” said Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President.

Father Marina expects the University to announce detailed plans for the new building in the coming weeks.

“The University is grateful for the support from NIST to make our vision a reality. We were privileged to be among more than a dozen transformative projects in our region that received federal support due to the steadfast efforts of Congressman Cartwright and his team. We deeply appreciate his continued and successful efforts to bolster support for transformative and innovative projects, which also meet the needs of the people of our region,” said Father Marina.

“This funding directly responds to some of the most pressing needs in Northeastern Pennsylvania by creating jobs with better pay, making us safer, and strengthening our communities,”  Cartwright added.

 

CASEY ON ANNIVERSARY OF CHIPS AND SCIENCE ACT: WHEN WE INVEST IN WORKERS, AMERICA WINS

LEGISLATION HELPS UNITED STATES COMPETE BY INVESTING IN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING AND SUPPLY CHAINS AND BOLSTERING NATIONAL SECURITY

CASEY HAS ADVOCATED FOR PA SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURERS ACROSS THE COMMONWEALTH TO RECEIVE CHIPS FUNDING

Senator Bob Casey (Photo: LuLac archives)

U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the CHIPS and Science Act being signed into law by President Joe Biden:

“One year ago, Democrats enacted the CHIPS and Science Act to fulfill President Biden’s promise to make more in America. Because of this law, we stand to make more semiconductor chips that power our cars, computers, and smartphones right here at home,” Senator Casey said. “CHIPS and Science is investing in American workers and their families by creating and sustaining jobs, shoring up our supply chains, protecting our national and economic security, and ensuring we can win in an increasingly competitive global economy.”

The CHIPS and Science Act includes a number of provisions that support U.S. manufacturing, boosts our economy, and strengthen national security vulnerabilities, including:

Investments in Semiconductors and Chip Manufacturing

The law includes $52 billion in investments and incentives for American semiconductor companies to conduct R&D and manufacture chips domestically in the United States. Part of this investment funds an incentive program to focus on legacy chip production to aid industries critical to the American economy, including the auto industry. Funding will also go to the implementation of the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC), National Advanced Packaging Manufacturing Program (NAPMP) and other R&D programs. The NSTC will serve as a hub for conducting advanced semiconductor research and prototyping, while the NAPMP will focus on the challenge of embedding fragile chips into small configurations that combine multiple systems. This will provide long-term benefits to American consumers including lower costs, increased functionality and improved energy efficiency. The legislation also provides funding to the Department of Defense to support semiconductor investments that are critical to U.S. national security.

 Wireless Telecommunications

 The CHIPS and Science Act also includes $2 billion to invest in the Open Radio Access Network (ORAN), helping U.S. wireless networks better compete against Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE. ORAN would create an open wireless network that allows components from different manufacturers to operate on the same network. Investing in ORAN is beneficial to U.S. national security, as the intelligence community has warned that Huawei and ZTE pose significant national security threats, including leaving U.S. companies vulnerable to Chinese surveillance and cyberattacks.

Investing in scientific R&D is critical to economic development, public health and national security. As much as 85 percent of U.S. productivity growth in the first half of the 20th century resulted from technological advances. However, U.S. federal government R&D, measured as a percentage of GDP, is near its lowest point in over 60 years. The CHIPS and Science Act invests in R&D and scientific research to spur innovation within specific sectors and in communities across the country. The National Science Foundation is receiving $36 billion in additional investments, including funding for STEM education efforts. The bill also invests in the National Institute of Standards and Technology, including funding for Manufacturing Extension Partnership, which supports small- and medium-sized manufacturers.  In an effort to diversify the types of communities that are on the frontier of America’s innovation economy, the bill calls for the designation of at least 20 regional technology and innovation hubs throughout the country.

The Commonwealth stands to compete for these designations as well as funding through a new program to support growth in persistently distressed communities. Additionally, the Department of Energy’s Office of Science will receive funding for additional research into sustainable transportation, advanced manufacturing, industrial decarbonization, advanced materials, renewable energy, and more. The inclusion of Senator Casey’s SUPER Act enables DOE to develop strategies that reduce emissions in steel manufacturing and advances the competitiveness of the American steel industry. The SUPER Act establishes the first crosscutting R&D program dedicated to low-emission steel manufacturing, including efforts to apply R&D on new production methods and public-private partnerships and to commercialize and promote new low-emissions technologies. It also directs DOE to develop a 5-year strategic plan to support research, development and demonstration activities to make technological advancements.

 

SHAPIRO ADMINISTRATION CONTINUES TO IMPROVE DIGITAL SERVICES FOR PENNSYLVANIANS, MAKING REAL PROGRESS IN FIRST 100 DAYS OF CODE PA

THE NEW OFFICE, ESTABLISHED BY GOVERNOR SHAPIRO’S EXECUTIVE ORDER, MAKES DIGITAL SERVICES EASIER TO USE AND ADMINISTER BY STREAMLINING THE WAY PENNSYLVANIANS INTERACT WITH THE COMMONWEALTH ONLINE

IN FIRST 100 DAYS, CODE PA ONBOARDS LEADERSHIP TEAM, PRIORITIZES PERMITTING PROCESS IMPROVEMENTS, AND STARTS DESIGN OF ONLINE REFUND SYSTEM FOR PERMITS, LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Governor Josh Shapiro (Photo: LuLac archives)

In the first 100 days after Governor Josh Shapiro signed an Executive Order establishing the Commonwealth Office of Digital Experience (CODE PA) to improve online services for Pennsylvanians, CODE PA has already delivered on the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to make government more accessible and effective for Pennsylvanians.

“I’ve said from the beginning of my Administration that we will prioritize serving the good people of our Commonwealth – and ensuring our services meet the changing needs of all Pennsylvanians is a critically important part of that service,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “CODE PA is making our online services more human-centered, user-friendly, reliable, and accessible – and we will continue to create opportunities for Pennsylvanians to access the resources and benefits the Commonwealth provides online.”

Under the leadership of Executive Director Bryanna Pardoe, CODE PA has already made significant strides to improve and modernize the Commonwealth websites and digital services and help Pennsylvanians connect with the resources the Commonwealth provides. CODE PA is also building a team of talented leaders dedicated to building digital products and services in house – saving taxpayers money in the long run by reducing reliance on expensive contracts with external consultants and vendors.

CODE PA has been hard at work in their first 100 days to help Pennsylvanians.

Building a seasoned leadership team to reimagine Pennsylvania’s digital service delivery. Six leaders from across the state have been onboarded to bring private-sector best practices into Pennsylvania’s public-sector work. These team members are going to be actively working to hire and lead teams that can enable the Commonwealth to tap internal expertise in user experience research and design, product management, and development first instead of relying on outside vendors. This team will work hand-in-hand with agencies on the critical task of putting residents and businesses at the center of the design for technology.

Reimagining Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) permitting technology. Currently, only 3% of DEP applications and permitting licenses are submitted online. Under the direction of DEP Secretary Rich Negrin, CODE PA is working in partnership with the agency and IT to modernize the technology and business processes in a way that makes it easier for residents, businesses, and agency employees to engage in permitting processes.

Partnering with the Office of Transformation to build a refund portal for permits, licenses, and certificates. CODE PA is bringing Pennsylvanians into the conversation as they design the new experience for residents and businesses to request refunds when permits, licenses, or certifications are not delivered on time, based on the Executive Order signed earlier this year by Governor Shapiro. The team is hosting focus groups, interviews, and previewing the design and features that will be part of this tool to make sure that what gets to developed meets the needs and expectations of our community as we roll out this important new digital experience.

Driving the charge for a consistent, secure ID authentication and verification login. Right now, individual online services throughout the Commonwealth require several, separate login credentials. To truly move at the speed of business and give Pennsylvanians the experience they expect, we know that has to change. CODE PA will partner with security and technology teams at the state to drive the transformation across every agency – ensuring Pennsylvanians will only need one set of login credentials.

“CODE PA was created to uphold Governor Shapiro’s commitment to making government more effective for the people of Pennsylvania, and we hit the ground running to ensure that our online and digital services move at the speed of business to meet these needs,” said CODE PA Executive Director Bry Pardoe. “We’ve assembled a stellar team of talented leaders ready to continue this commitment and create more online opportunities for Pennsylvanians so they can be empowered by Commonwealth services to lead productive lives.”

CODE PA was established in close collaboration with organizations such as US Digital Service, 18F, US Digital Response, Georgetown University’s Beeck Center for Social Impact and Innovation, San Francisco Digital Services, and Colorado Digital Service, among others. With insight not just from agencies across the Commonwealth but also other governments, CODE PA has been able to learn from the experiences of other industry leaders and will continue to look for ways to collaborate with their partners across the Commonwealth and the country to improve services for Pennsylvanians.

“As CODE PA makes its mark in Pennsylvania, US Digital Response is proud to support their work ensuring the equitable and trusted delivery of government services. We know that meeting the urgent needs of our communities requires commitment, skill, and humility – all qualities that the team at CODE PA represents,” U.S. Digital Response CEO Hillary Hartley said. “We’ve loved working with the Governor’s office to bring their vision to life, and we’re excited to support this incredible team as they continue to deliver for Pennsylvanians.”

CODE PA is just getting started and will continue working to make it easier for Pennsylvanians to connect with state government services.

 

 A STATEMENT FROM FIRST LADY LORI SHAPIRO ON THE PASSING OF FIRST LADY ELLEN CASEY

 

First Lady Lori Shapiro released the following statement on the passing of former First Lady Ellen Casey:

“On behalf of our entire family, Josh and I send our prayers and condolences to the Casey Family on the passing of First Lady Ellen Casey.

“Ellen was an ambassador for the Commonwealth and her beloved home of Scranton. Like Governor Casey, she made family, health, and children part of her life’s work. Her work to raise awareness around breast cancer, literacy, and so much more made the lives of countless Pennsylvanians better.

“We are grateful to Ellen for her dedication to the people of Pennsylvania. May her memory be a blessing for her family and all of us who benefited from her service.“

Today, the Governor ordered US and Commonwealth flags on all Commonwealth facilities, public buildings, and grounds across Pennsylvania to immediately fly at half-staff in honor of Former First Lady Ellen Casey.

 

MEDIA MATTERS

WALN TV

BOLD GOLD COMMUNITY FORUM

You'll hear the program Sunday at 6 on 94.3 The Talker; 6:30 on 1400 am The Mothership and 7:30 am on 105 The River.

 

BOBBY V’S DOO WOP SUNDAY NIGHT SOCK HOP

 

1954

Our 1954 logo

Getúlio Vargas, 72, Brazilian president; Vargas commits suicide after being accused of involvement in a conspiracy to murder his chief political opponent, Carlos Lacerda, shooting himself in the chest at the Catete Palace with a Colt Police Positive Special. Born in São Borja, Rio Grande do Sul, to a powerful local family, Vargas had a short stint in the Army before entering law school. He began his political career as district attorney, soon becoming a state deputy prior to a brief departure from politics. After returning to the state Legislative Assembly, Vargas led troops during Rio Grande do Sul's 1923 civil war. He entered national politics as a member of the Chamber of Deputies. Afterward, Vargas served as Minister of Finance under President Washington Luís before resigning to head Rio Grande do Sul as state president, during which he had an active tenure and introduced many policies.

In 1930, after losing the presidential election, Vargas rose to power under a provisional presidency following an armed revolution, remaining until 1934 when he was elected president under a new constitution. Three years later he seized powers under the pretext of a potential communist insurrection, beginning the eight-year long Estado Novo dictatorship. In 1942, he led Brazil into World War II on the side of the Allies after being sandwiched between Nazi Germany and the United States. Though there was notable opposition to his government, the major revolts – the 1932 Constitutionalist Revolution in his provisional government, the Communist uprising of 1935 in his constitutional presidency, and the Brazilian Integralist Action's putsch in his dictatorship – were all successfully suppressed; the methods Vargas used in quelling his opposition ranged from light peace terms to jailing political opponents.

Ousted in 1945 after fifteen years in power, Vargas returned to the presidency democratically after winning the 1950 Brazilian general election. However, a growing political crisis led to his suicide in 1954, prematurely ending his second presidency.………..The 1954 European Championships in Athletics open at Berne, capital of Switzerland…………U.S. Air Force Captain Joseph C. McConnell, 32, the top-scoring American jet ace in history, in the crash of an F-86H Sabre fighter-bomber when its controls malfunction during a test flight at Edwards Air Force Base, California…..and in 1954 the number one song in America and LuLac land was "L'Étranger Au Paradis" by Gloria Lasso.