Published here annually since May 14, 2006:

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

• Editor’s note: Mother’s Day 2024 is especially poignant as the challenges of these times have given us an opportunity of introspection on what are truly the important things in life.
• This year, take a moment to pause and honor with your prayers and blessings the mothers who bore us all all, givers of life.

1. From Wikipedia:
“The modern Mother’s Day holiday was created by Anna Jarvis as a day for each family to honor its mother, and it’s now celebrated on various days in many places around the world. It complements Father’s Day, the celebration honoring fathers.

This holiday is relatively modern, being created at the start of the 20th century, and should not be confused with the early pagan and Christian traditions honoring mothers, or with the 16th century celebration of Mothering Sunday, which is also known as Mother’s Day in the UK.

In most countries the Mother’s Day celebration is a recent holiday derived from the original US celebration…

In 1912, Anna Jarvis trademarked the phrases “second Sunday in May” and “Mother’s Day”, and created the Mother’s Day International Association.

“She was specific about the location of the apostrophe; it was to be a singular possessive, for each family to honour their mother, not a plural possessive commemorating all mothers in the world.”[1]

This is also the spelling used by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson in the law making official the holiday in the U.S. [May 9, 1914], by the U.S. Congress on bills, and by other U.S. presidents on their declarations.”


2. From Women’s Rights.Change:
“From Physicians for Social Responsibility:
Julia Ward Howe proposed the idea of Mothers Day for Peace over a century ago. Howes Mothers Day Proclamation in 1870 was a call for disarmament and for women to come together to seek diplomatic ways to settle disagreements amongst nations.

Today, Physicians for Social Responsibility carries on this work by seeking an end to the use and spread of nuclear weapons, working to end global warming, and stopping the toxic degradation of the environment. We encourage you to share the story of Mothers Day with your mother and other family members and friends.”
Mother’s Day Proclamation 1870
By Julia Ward Howe.

3. From May 11, 2014
“Presidential Proclamation — Mother’s Day, 2014”
From The White House of President Barack Obama. Click here

Longtime Yelm School Board member resigns

Mark Rohwedder’s departure effective immediately

Excerpt from the Nisqually Valley News:

Mark Rohwedder, District No. 1 director for the Yelm Community Schools Board, announced his resignation, effective immediately, during the board’s meeting at Ridgeline Middle School on Thursday, May 9.

Rohwedder, whose term was set to expire in 2025, had served on the board since July 25, 2013. He told the board and attendees during the meeting that he first intended to resign on the first of the year but he chose to wait until after the special election for the district’s educational program and operations (EP&O) levy, which failed on both attempts.

After the meeting, Rohwedder said his job has taken him between Vancouver and Longview and that he does not “have the time to dedicate what this needs to do.”

“I basically was going to resign on the first of the year, but with the levy coming up, I was in solidarity with the board and I didn’t want to have division going into a levy election,” he said. “We decided that it would be good to wait until the levy was over, so that was gonna be the end of February. But then we didn’t pass the levy, and then, after spring break, there was only one board meeting in April but it was before the levy. So this was the first board meeting after the final levy election.”

Rohwedder did not vote on the district’s reduced education plan, which was unanimously approved during the meeting. Superintendent Chris Woods said that 200 positions would be impacted, either temporarily or long term, but the district did not make the list of positions public.

Rohwedder said that while he no longer lives in the Olympia address, as of 2022, that is listed on the YCS board of directors website, he “rents a place in the district and I rent a place down south.” He confirmed that he did not vote on either levy attempt because he changed his mailing address to his southern residence, citing “the mail system is safer down there than the house within the district.”

“I hate to say that one vote doesn’t matter, but it does. But to go through all the hassle of changing my mailing address back to where I was staying up here just to change it to down south again, I didn’t want to deal with that headache,” he said.

As the weather turns warm and dry, it’s a great time to prepare for the wildfire season

Excerpt from The Bellingham Herald via yahoo!news:

Summer is just around the corner, and the weather is expected to get warmer and dryer. As we get ready for sun and fun we need to prevent and prepare for wildfires.

In 2023, Washington had one of our most challenging wildfire seasons to date with a total of 1,880 wildfires — the second highest recorded reported by Commissioner Franz, DNR Leaders. According to National Fire Protection Association, wildfires cost the US $18 billion in property losses in 2022.

Wildfire Preparedness Day was May 4 so this is a great time to take the following actions:

Reduce risk:

• Clear fuel sources such as dead vegetation away from your home and other structures.
• Engage in a local community cleanup day.
• Proper fire safety on a daily basis to prevent accidental fires.
• Fire resistant construction.
• Remain informed of emergency alerts.

Be prepared:

• Create an emergency kit including food, important documents, battery powered radio, first aid kit and any medicine you need.
• Have a communication plan for notifying neighbors of an emergency.
• Practice your family’s escape plan paths out of the house, neighborhood and where to meet.
• Pack your vehicle with everything you need.
• Have someone assigned to get the pets so there is no miscommunications.
• Listen to emergency personnel and evacuate when you are told.

If you’d like more examples, visit the NFPA information page on wildfire preparedness.

For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at 360-596-3904.

Dear readers;

I have heard the requests and pleas to learn about and support the release of Leonard Pertier of the First Nation’s people. He was convicted in 1975 in what was known as the “Second Wounded Knee.”
Leonard Peltier has a parole date one month from today, June 10th 2024.
I am told that those who were with him know the truth and that “49 years is more then enough time to serve in prison. Let our elder be free!!!!!”

I agree!

Click here to read this compelling story!

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Leonard Peltier: ‘I hope I make it to June 10’

Excerpt from Amelia Schafer and Kevin Abourezk, ICT + Rapid City Journal

RAPID CITY, S.D. – At 80 years old, Leonard Peltier is approaching what may be his last attempt at freedom.

On June 10, the Anishinaabe elder will participate in what may be his final parole hearing. Peltier is currently serving two consecutive life sentences after being convicted of killing two FBI agents in 1975 at the Jumping Bull Ranch in South Dakota.

Peltier is asking for the public to spread the word about his parole hearing, said Dawn Lawson, secretary of the Leonard Peltier Ad Hoc Committee.

“For a long time, people have been dying in that prison and the (Federal Bureau of Prisons) is out of control,” Lawson said. “They’re (U.S. Penitentiary Coleman 1) currently on indefinite lockdown, not because anybody has done anything, just because they can. They (prisoners) are living in their own filth. Leonard is making an appeal to his people to please get anybody’s attention.” READ MORE — by Amelia Schafer and Kevin Abourezk, ICT + Rapid City Journal

In the past few months, the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa citizen’s health has taken a turn for the worse, so much so that his attorneys say they’re concerned he won’t make it to the June parole hearing.

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“At a time when democratic values are being challenged, DOJ should take action as he nears the end of his life and allow him to return to his family on his ancestral homeland,” LeBlanc said in a statement. “We implore the DOJ to grant Peltier’s compassionate release.”

Tilsen called on the Biden administration to take action.

“This administration, the Biden Administration, has said that Native American rights are a priority to them, and yet they’ve got the longest sitting Indigenous political prisoner locked up and we’ve seen no action from the federal government,” Tilsen said. “If he dies in prison this will forever be a part of that administration’s legacy as it relates to Native people.”

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A chance to tell his story

Within 30 days after the June 10 parole hearing, the parole commission will issue its decision. A recommendation will be delivered to the commission for a final decision to be made.

Since Peltier is a federal prisoner serving a sentence of 30 years or more, he is eligible for a parole hearing within 9 months of his eligibility date as determined by the Bureau of Prisons. This hearing may be his only shot.

“The parole hearing on June 10 is the most important parole hearing of Leonard’s life,” Tilsen said. “He won’t live long enough for another parole hearing to come around.”

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+ The Guardian (UK) posted Feb. 6, 2023: Indigenous activist Leonard Peltier in plea for clemency after 47 years in jail – Peltier, 78, convicted of murdering two FBI agents in 1975, tells Guardian of desire to return home to tribal land

+ Indian Times: Leonard Peltier Set for Parole Hearing in June

+ KING-5 News, NBC Seattle: Joe Biden will visit Seattle this Friday. Here’s what we know – The president will be visiting to raise money for his campaign, according to the White House.

Joe Biden’s Seattle visit will require flights in and out of Sea-Tac Airport

Anyone flying in or out of the airport Friday evening or Saturday afternoon should expect potential delays.

Excerpt from KING-5 TV News, NBC Seattle:

Anyone with plans to fly through the state’s largest airport this weekend should prepare for potential delays.

President Joe Biden will be flying in and out of SEA Airport to visit the Seattle area, a spokesperson confirmed to KING 5. 

The president will be traveling from the San Francisco Bay Area, where he is attending campaign events on Thursday and Friday. The White House has not confirmed what time Biden and his traveling party will be touching down at SEA, but a temporary flight restriction is in effect within a 10-mile radius around SEA airport from 5:15 p.m. Friday until 2:45 p.m. Saturday, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. This mainly applies to private flights and will not impact commercial operations. 

A SEA Airport spokesperson said it is expecting the standard hold for Air Force One. All traffic will be stopped on runways until the aircraft arrives and is parked, the spokesperson said.

Security protocols require SEA Airport to stop all air traffic at least 30 minutes before the arrival of the president’s plane, Alaska Airlines confirmed in a statement to KING 5. Alaska said to expect delays when Air Force One departs on Saturday.

A presidential visit or any high-level executive branch mandates a significant amount of security, with local police officers partnering with state and national agencies to protect the traveling party.

+ The Olympian: ‘Warm air doesn’t always mean warm water.’ Swimming not advised during this warm spell

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Get ready: Olympia area on track to experience warmest day of the year on Friday

Though it will be warm, the National Weather Service warns waterways are still cold.

Excerpt from The Olympian, accessible text via yahoo!news:

The Olympia area will experience its warmest weather of the year amid a stretch of sunny days.

A high of about 85 degrees is forecast for Friday, according to the National Weather Service in Seattle.

Such a high temperature would mark the warmest weather of the year so far, per the NWS. The warmest it’s been in the Olympia area this month, prior to Thursday, was 69 degrees on May 2, making Friday’s weather a significant departure from recent days.

Olympia’s weather also is expected to be warmer than many other cities. The National Weather Service predicted Friday highs of 81 in Tacoma and 79 in Seattle.

Skies are expected to be clear through Saturday and mostly sunny on Sunday and Monday, according to the NWS. Following the high on Friday, temperatures will cool to 52 degrees Friday night before rising to 79 degrees Saturday.

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Though temperatures will be warm this weekend, the NWS warns waterways will still be cold. In a Thursday morning post on X, the NWS said some lakes and Puget Sound temperatures were still in the 50s.

High temperatures in spring and early summer cause snowmelts to increase, which can in turn cause rivers to run faster and colder compared to the latter part of the summer, per the NWS.

Body heat can drain up to 25 times faster in cold water than in cold air, the NWS warned in another post on X.

Cold water can shock the body and increase the risk of drowning. Signs of cold-water shock include involuntary gasping and rapid breathing, per the NWS.

As a precaution, the NWS advises people wear a life jacket in and around water and dress for water temperature rather than air temperature

+ On May 11, the coalition will showcase the diverse stories, cultures, and contributions of Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Americans through various events, including food vendors, performances, and family-friendly activities. Click here for details this Saturday in Lacey.

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Thurston County celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

On May 11, the coalition will showcase the diverse stories, cultures, and contributions of Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Americans through various events, including food vendors, performances, and family-friendly activities.

From The JOLT News:

In a show of recognition and celebration, the Thurston Board of County Commissioners officially declared May Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month.

The board’s proclamation recognizes the historical significance of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, which dates back to 1992. May was chosen to commemorate pivotal events such as the arrival of the first known Japanese immigrant to the United States and the completion of the transcontinental railroad.

“Washington State has been home to generations of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders for more than 200 years, contributing greatly to the government, businesses, arts, sciences, medicines, education, and military,” the proclamation read.

It acknowledges the “proud and sometimes painful” chapters of AAPI history while affirming a commitment to supporting and uplifting the community.

This year’s celebration theme, “Advancing Leaders Through Innovation,” reflects on the visionary spirit and resilience of AAPI individuals who have shaped history and continue to influence the future.

+ Delta Airlines News Hub: J.D. Power: Delta best for First/Business, Premium Economy Passenger Satisfaction; No. 1 in airline staff

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Delta, Southwest lead way in 2024 J.D. Power airline rankings

Excerpt from The Points Guy:

Delta Air Lines received leading scores among passengers who recently flew in first-class, business-class or premium economy cabins, according to results unveiled Wednesday from J.D. Power’s 2024 North American Airline Satisfaction Study.

Southwest Airlines led the way among economy travelers, and Delta came in second place.

J.D. Power’s annual airline rankings incorporate survey results from recent travelers on a slew of factors that contribute to the air travel experience. Factors include ease of travel, interactions with staff, on-board experience and value for price paid.

This year’s rankings focused on airline performance between March 2023 and March 2024, as determined by surveys taken by passengers who flew the previous month.

Like recent years, the rankings are separated into three categories: first and business class, premium economy, and economy/basic economy.

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Leaders at Delta, for one, have touted its operational reliability of late; this is owed, in part, to the airline’s extensive hiring efforts following the peak of the coronavirus pandemic and staffing challenges two years ago.

From the City of Yelm Government Facebook post:

Work is scheduled to begin May 7th on the lot at the corner of 3rd Avenue and Washington. This city owned property will undergo a transformation into a downtown parking lot.

This lot will help provide parking for summer events, like the upcoming Yelm Prairie Days, BBQ Rally, and Jazz in the Park, the weekly Farmers Market, and will offer additional parking spaces for downtown businesses. This will provide 44 official parking spots, including planned electric charging stations.

• Editor’s note: Whenever candidates of any party visit in Yelm with voters, that warrants coverage.
• Byrd is gaining momentum as a right-wing alternative.
• GOP candidate Byrd is endorsed by former right-wing candidates Loren Culp and Joe Kent. Yelm was a frequent stop for their campaigns, too.

Right-wing GOP alternative candidate Semi Byrd campaigns in Yelm

+ The Seattle Times: Semi Bird challenging Dave Reichert for GOP nomination for WA governor – Former U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert is the frontrunner to be the GOP’s gubernatorial candidate in 2024, but Semi Bird is gaining momentum as a right-wing alternative.

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This blog post is not an endorsement of or supporter of Mr. Byrd.