thetennesseestar--2020-07-07--Military’s Top Catholic Prelate: Navy’s Indoor Religious Services Ban ‘Odious’

The leader of the Archdiocese for the Military Services compared the Navy ’ s banning sailors from attending religious services to the treatment of the Catholics in 17th century Japan depicted in the movie “ Silence.
” “ The persecution was systematic and destined to eradicate the faith from the islands , ” wrote Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio , who has led the Catholic military chaplaincy and its programs since 2008 , in a public letter posted Sunday .
“ While the current situation in the US is certainly not one of persecution , the movie does invite the viewer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are , and decide what value merits a sacrifice , even the ultimate sacrifice , ” the archbishop said .
“ Participation in the Sunday Eucharist is life blood for Catholics , ” he said .
“ It is the source and summit of our lives and allows us to receive the Body and Blood of the Lord.
” The archbishop said given the circumstances , he dispensed the obligation to attend Mass from Catholics burdened with the Navy policy .
“ It seems tragic to offer these reflections on the Independence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those who forged this Nation to ensure self-evident truths about the endowment by the creator of life , liberty , and the pursuit of happiness , ” he said .
Broglio , who was consecrated a bishop by St. Pope John Paul II , said he became aware of the problem after a number of people reached out to him about the Navy ’ s June 24 COVID-19 order banning sailors from attending indoor religious services off-base – a policy that does allow sailors to attend mass protests and use mass transit .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ strongly discouraged civilian Navy employees and Navy dependents from attending indoor religious services , he said .
“ Upon receiving this information , I immediately contacted the Navy Chief of Chaplains ’ office , ” he said .
“ They have been unable to offer any relief from these provisions.
” Broglio : Chief of Naval Operations ignored my inquiry When the archbishop reached out to Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Michael M. Gilday , there was no response , he said .
“ My attempt to contact the Chief of Naval Operations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who served as military aide to President William J. Clinton , was raised in a Catholic family and graduated from Central Catholic High School in his hometown of Lowell , Massachusetts before entering Annapolis .
Broglio said the Navy went beyond verbal orders and put the prohibition in writing .
“ Service members are required to sign that they have received the Frag orders .
Those who disobey will be held accountable.
” Frag orders or Frago ’ s are military shorthand for fragmentary orders that are a new supplement to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provision is particularly odious to Catholics , because frequently there is no longer a Catholic program on naval installations due to budgetary constraints or many installation chapels are still closed – even though many of them could well ensure appropriate social distancing , ” he said .
The archbishop , who served is a canon lawyer and served as a Vatican diplomat before taking over the Military See , said the Navy was acting outside its authority .
“ The Navy can not legally prohibit family members from frequenting religious services off base @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family members return home where the military member lives .
What is the protective effect of the prohibition for the Navy personnel ?
Zero.
” The First Liberty Institute , the civil rights watchdog , wrote a June 29 letter to the Air Force liaison at the Navy school on behalf of Air Force Maj. Daniel Schultz , who attends the Naval Postgraduate School , Monterey , California , asking for an accommodation for his religious practices .
First Liberty Institute General Counsel Michael Berry , a Marine Veteran , said the Navy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump , who declared religious practices essential .
“ In open defiance of the commander in Chief , who recently declared churches as essential to America , the U.S. Navy has threatened to court-martial service members if they go to church , ” said Berry .
Broglio made the same point in his open letter .
“ I wonder why the Navy has decided to prohibit the faithful from something , which even the commander-in-chief has called an essential service , ” the prelate said .
“ I want to assure the Navy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Star newspaper group reached out to Navy public affairs by email and phone requesting comment .
The Navy did not respond by deadline .
Neil W. McCabe is a Washington-based national political reporter for The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network .
In addition to The Star newspaper , he has covered the White House , Capitol Hill and national politics for One America News , Breitbart , Human Events and Townhall .
Before coming to Washington , he was a staff reporter for Boston ’ s Catholic paper , The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boston-area community papers , The Somerville News and The Alewife .
McCabe is a public affairs NCO in the Army Reserve and he deployed for 15 months to Iraq as a combat historian .
Photo “ Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio ” by The Archdiocese for the Military Services .

The leader of the Archdiocese for the Military Services compared the Navy’s banning sailors from attending religious services to the treatment of the Catholics in 17th century Japan depicted in the movie “Silence.”
“The persecution was systematic and destined to eradicate the faith from the islands,” wrote Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, who has led the Catholic military chaplaincy and its programs since 2008, in a public letter posted Sunday.
“While the current situation in the US is certainly not one of persecution, the movie does invite the viewer to recognize values, determine how important they are, and decide what value merits a sacrifice, even the ultimate sacrifice,” the archbishop said.
“Participation in the Sunday Eucharist is life blood for Catholics,” he said. “It is the source and summit of our lives and allows us to receive the Body and Blood of the Lord.”
The archbishop said given the circumstances, he dispensed the obligation to attend Mass from Catholics burdened with the Navy policy.
“It seems tragic to offer these reflections on the Independence holiday when we honor the bravery of those who forged this Nation to ensure self-evident truths about the endowment by the creator of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” he said.
Broglio, who was consecrated a bishop by St. Pope John Paul II, said he became aware of the problem after a number of people reached out to him about the Navy’s June 24 COVID-19 order banning sailors from attending indoor religious services off-base – a policy that does allow sailors to attend mass protests and use mass transit.
In those orders, the Navy also strongly discouraged civilian Navy employees and Navy dependents from attending indoor religious services, he said.
“Upon receiving this information, I immediately contacted the Navy Chief of Chaplains’ office,” he said. “They have been unable to offer any relief from these provisions.”
Broglio: Chief of Naval Operations ignored my inquiry
When the archbishop reached out to Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Michael M. Gilday, there was no response, he said. “My attempt to contact the Chief of Naval Operations has not even been acknowledged.”
Gilday, who served as military aide to President William J. Clinton, was raised in a Catholic family and graduated from Central Catholic High School in his hometown of Lowell, Massachusetts before entering Annapolis.
Broglio said the Navy went beyond verbal orders and put the prohibition in writing. “Service members are required to sign that they have received the Frag orders. Those who disobey will be held accountable.” Frag orders or Frago’s are military shorthand for fragmentary orders that are a new supplement to a more comprehensive standing order.
“The provision is particularly odious to Catholics, because frequently there is no longer a Catholic program on naval installations due to budgetary constraints or many installation chapels are still closed – even though many of them could well ensure appropriate social distancing,” he said.
The archbishop, who served is a canon lawyer and served as a Vatican diplomat before taking over the Military See, said the Navy was acting outside its authority.
“The Navy cannot legally prohibit family members from frequenting religious services off base,” he said. “Those family members return home where the military member lives. What is the protective effect of the prohibition for the Navy personnel? Zero.”
Air Force officer seeks relief
The First Liberty Institute, the civil rights watchdog, wrote a June 29 letter to the Air Force liaison at the Navy school on behalf of Air Force Maj. Daniel Schultz, who attends the Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, California, asking for an accommodation for his religious practices.
First Liberty Institute General Counsel Michael Berry, a Marine Veteran, said the Navy is countermanding an order from President Donald Trump, who declared religious practices essential.
“In open defiance of the commander in Chief, who recently declared churches as essential to America, the U.S. Navy has threatened to court-martial service members if they go to church,” said Berry.
Broglio made the same point in his open letter.
“I wonder why the Navy has decided to prohibit the faithful from something, which even the commander-in-chief has called an essential service,” the prelate said. “I want to assure the Navy Catholic faithful of my prayerful solidarity.”
The Star newspaper group reached out to Navy public affairs by email and phone requesting comment. The Navy did not respond by deadline.
– – –
Neil W. McCabe is a Washington-based national political reporter for The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network. In addition to The Star newspaper, he has covered the White House, Capitol Hill and national politics for One America News, Breitbart, Human Events and Townhall. Before coming to Washington, he was a staff reporter for Boston’s Catholic paper, The Pilot, and the editor of two Boston-area community papers, The Somerville News and The Alewife. McCabe is a public affairs NCO in the Army Reserve and he deployed for 15 months to Iraq as a combat historian.
Photo “Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio” by The Archdiocese for the Military Services.


thetennesseestar--2020-07-07--Minnesota Board of Medical Practice Investigating Republican Senator for Speaking Out on COVID-19

State Sen. Scott Jensen ( R-Chaska ) , a practicing physician , revealed Sunday that anonymous complaints were filed against him with the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice for his public comments on the coronavirus pandemic .
“ This is one of the most important videos I ’ ve made and one of the hardest , ” Jensen said in a video posted to Facebook .
“ Less than a week ago , I was notified by the Board of Medical Practice in Minnesota that I was being investigated because of public statements I had made.
” Jensen said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegations against him , including the spread of misinformation and providing Minnesotans with reckless advice by comparing COVID-19 to the flu .
The Republican senator faced backlash in April when he said that a CDC guidance granted doctors the authority to include “ suspected or likely ” cases of COVID-19 on death certificates .
Jensen said the document , which was sent to him by the Minnesota Department of Health , indicated that he could include a diagnosis of COVID-19 on death certificates even if there were no official lab results confirming the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letter I was ticked .
Quite frankly , I leaned into the comfort and wisdom of my family to let them talk me off the cliff .
But doggone it , if this can happen to me , my view is it could happen to everybody , ” Jensen said in the video .
Jensen has been a family doctor for almost 40 years and was named the Minnesota Family Physician of the Year in 2016 .
The complaints filed against him were made anonymously .
“ A couple people complained and I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those people are .
I don ’ t know if they ’ re routinely in a political camp , if they ’ re activists , ” he said .
“ I don ’ t get to know anything .
I checked.
” Jensen was “ stunned ” when he was first notified of the complaints about a week ago , but said he “ should ’ ve seen it coming.
” “ I saw the threats on social media .
I ’ ve seen them for the last two or three months , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t agree with me , they didn ’ t like it that I was trying to provide some context for the flu , for COVID-19.
” Jensen said he “ could be disciplined ” by the Board of Medical Practice , but didn ’ t elaborate on what that might look like .
“ I don ’ t know what to tell you .
I just know this is wrong .
We ’ re in a bad place , ” he continued .
Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka ( R-East Gull Lake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his medical expertise on COVID because he has proven to be right.
” “ USA Today fact-checked and verified Sen. Jensen ’ s claim that federal payments were greater if patients were confirmed to have COVID , ” Gazelka said in a press release .
“ We are looking into whether or not the board is compelled to investigate every complaint or if they are choosing to investigate Dr. Jensen .
It ’ s also concerning there are two separate complaints , raising questions about coordination .
Legislators should not have to fear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bureaucratic state can silence speech through investigations , we have very dark times ahead for our democracy.
” Anthony Gockowski is managing editor of The Minnesota Sun and The Ohio Star .
Follow Anthony on Twitter .
Email tips to [ email protected ] .
Photo “ Scott Jensen ” by Scott Jensen .

State Sen. Scott Jensen (R-Chaska), a practicing physician, revealed Sunday that anonymous complaints were filed against him with the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice for his public comments on the coronavirus pandemic.
“This is one of the most important videos I’ve made and one of the hardest,” Jensen said in a video posted to Facebook. “Less than a week ago, I was notified by the Board of Medical Practice in Minnesota that I was being investigated because of public statements I had made.”
Jensen said the Board of Medical Practice is investigating two allegations against him, including the spread of misinformation and providing Minnesotans with reckless advice by comparing COVID-19 to the flu.
The Republican senator faced backlash in April when he said that a CDC guidance granted doctors the authority to include “suspected or likely” cases of COVID-19 on death certificates.
Jensen said the document, which was sent to him by the Minnesota Department of Health, indicated that he could include a diagnosis of COVID-19 on death certificates even if there were no official lab results confirming the diagnosis.
“When I got this letter I was ticked. Quite frankly, I leaned into the comfort and wisdom of my family to let them talk me off the cliff. But doggone it, if this can happen to me, my view is it could happen to everybody,” Jensen said in the video.
Jensen has been a family doctor for almost 40 years and was named the Minnesota Family Physician of the Year in 2016. The complaints filed against him were made anonymously.
“A couple people complained and I don’t get to know who those people are. I don’t know if they’re routinely in a political camp, if they’re activists,” he said. “I don’t get to know anything. I checked.”
Jensen was “stunned” when he was first notified of the complaints about a week ago, but said he “should’ve seen it coming.”
“I saw the threats on social media. I’ve seen them for the last two or three months,” he said. “They didn’t agree with me, they didn’t like it that I was trying to provide some context for the flu, for COVID-19.”
Jensen said he “could be disciplined” by the Board of Medical Practice, but didn’t elaborate on what that might look like.
“I don’t know what to tell you. I just know this is wrong. We’re in a bad place,” he continued.
Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka (R-East Gull Lake) said he supports Jensen and “his medical expertise on COVID because he has proven to be right.”
“USA Today fact-checked and verified Sen. Jensen’s claim that federal payments were greater if patients were confirmed to have COVID,” Gazelka said in a press release. “We are looking into whether or not the board is compelled to investigate every complaint or if they are choosing to investigate Dr. Jensen. It’s also concerning there are two separate complaints, raising questions about coordination. Legislators should not have to fear regulators based on their speech. If the bureaucratic state can silence speech through investigations, we have very dark times ahead for our democracy.”
– – –
Anthony Gockowski is managing editor of The Minnesota Sun and The Ohio Star. Follow Anthony on Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Scott Jensen” by Scott Jensen.


thetennesseestar--2020-07-07--Commentary: Joe Biden’s Loyalty Is with China, Not America

While our loyalty as Americans is with God and our country , Joe Biden ’ s loyalty is with China .
During his decades in the U.S. Senate and eight years as vice president , Biden consistently supported globalist policies that sent millions of blue collar American jobs to China .
In addition to helping Beijing secure permanent “ most favored nation ” status , Biden helped smooth the way for China ’ s entry into the World Trade Organization ( WTO ) — a disastrous decision that has resulted in the loss of more than 60,000 American factories .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ economic interests , a position he has sought to justify by scoffing at the concerns of working Americans whose jobs are threatened by China ’ s abusive and illegal trade practices .
We are blessed to have a President who is willing to stand up to China .
Donald Trump challenged Beijing ’ s trade abuses from his very first days in office , imposing strategic counter-tariffs that forced Chinese leaders to the negotiating table and produced an historic “ Phase One ” agreement that starts us on a path to establishing genuinely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world ’ s second-largest economy .
Significantly for Ohio farmers , the deal obligates China to purchase an additional $ 40 billion worth of U.S. agricultural products per year over the next two years .
That would more than double the all-time record for annual agricultural exports to China , opening up a vast new market for Buckeye State farmers .
The President ’ s well-justified distrust of China proved appropriate once again when the coronavirus pandemic struck .
Before there was a single COVID-19 case in the United States , the Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issued health safety guidelines , and when there were still only seven cases in the U.S. , the President issued travel restrictions on China as well as a mandatory quarantine for Americans returning from that country — policies that he subsequently extended to Europe , as well .
These measures , which saved countless American lives , were apparently too much for Biden , who condemned them as “ xenophobic ” before later trying to walk back his criticism once it became clear that the travel restrictions had been effective .
Biden won @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protect America from the foreign menace , let alone name where the virus originated : Wuhan , China .
Biden also seemingly disregards that the Chinese communist regime has amassed one of the most detestable human rights records on the planet — a record that includes violently repressing its own citizens , placing ethnic minorities in concentration camps , and orchestrating the slaughter of hundreds of millions of babies with its disastrous “ one child ” policy .
China ’ s actions are antithetical to the principles Americans hold dear , but Beijing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Here in Ohio , we value our freedoms .
We value faith and family .
Most importantly , we value God and country .
These are American values .
Joe Biden shuns those values by carrying water for communist China .
Charles Mifsud is a practicing Attorney in the State of Ohio .
He is a lifelong Republican activist and an Advisory Board member for Catholics for Trump .
He resides in Plain City , Ohio .

by Charles Misfud
While our loyalty as Americans is with God and our country, Joe Biden’s loyalty is with China.
During his decades in the U.S. Senate and eight years as vice president, Biden consistently supported globalist policies that sent millions of blue collar American jobs to China. In addition to helping Beijing secure permanent “most favored nation” status, Biden helped smooth the way for China’s entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO) — a disastrous decision that has resulted in the loss of more than 60,000 American factories. Biden continues to champion China’s economic interests, a position he has sought to justify by scoffing at the concerns of working Americans whose jobs are threatened by China’s abusive and illegal trade practices.
We are blessed to have a President who is willing to stand up to China. Donald Trump challenged Beijing’s trade abuses from his very first days in office, imposing strategic counter-tariffs that forced Chinese leaders to the negotiating table and produced an historic “Phase One” agreement that starts us on a path to establishing genuinely fair and reciprocal trade relations with the world’s second-largest economy.
Significantly for Ohio farmers, the deal obligates China to purchase an additional $40 billion worth of U.S. agricultural products per year over the next two years. That would more than double the all-time record for annual agricultural exports to China, opening up a vast new market for Buckeye State farmers.
The President’s well-justified distrust of China proved appropriate once again when the coronavirus pandemic struck.
Before there was a single COVID-19 case in the United States, the Trump administration’s Centers for Disease Control issued health safety guidelines, and when there were still only seven cases in the U.S., the President issued travel restrictions on China as well as a mandatory quarantine for Americans returning from that country — policies that he subsequently extended to Europe, as well. These measures, which saved countless American lives, were apparently too much for Biden, who condemned them as “xenophobic” before later trying to walk back his criticism once it became clear that the travel restrictions had been effective. Biden won’t even tolerate common-sense measures to protect America from the foreign menace, let alone name where the virus originated: Wuhan, China.
Biden also seemingly disregards that the Chinese communist regime has amassed one of the most detestable human rights records on the planet — a record that includes violently repressing its own citizens, placing ethnic minorities in concentration camps, and orchestrating the slaughter of hundreds of millions of babies with its disastrous “one child” policy. China’s actions are antithetical to the principles Americans hold dear, but Beijing Biden doesn’t seem to care.
Here in Ohio, we value our freedoms. We value faith and family. Most importantly, we value God and country. These are American values. Joe Biden shuns those values by carrying water for communist China.
– – –
Charles Mifsud is a practicing Attorney in the State of Ohio. He is a lifelong Republican activist and an Advisory Board member for Catholics for Trump. He resides in Plain City, Ohio.


thetennesseestar--2020-07-07--Gov. DeWine Says He Supports Dayton’s Face Mask Mandate

Ohio Gov .
Mike DeWine said he supports Dayton ’ s decision to require residents to wear face masks in public places .
The Dayton City Commission approved an ordinance Wednesday requiring “ face coverings in public spaces.
” The ordinance took effect Friday morning and orders residents to “ cover their nose and mouth ” in indoor public places or in outdoor places where social distancing is not possible .
“ I know that no one is excited about wearing a mask , ” Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley said in a press release .
“ I know that wearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that , unfortunately , wearing a mask has become a political flash point .
But I also know that masks save lives .
Masks are incredibly effective in reducing the spread of this virus .
Masks are a small sacrifice that we can all make to take care of one another and to keep our businesses open as we continue to weather this storm.
” The ordinance does not require all people to wear a mask in every circumstance .
Children under the age of six are not required to wear a mask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , mental health conditions , or developmental disabilities that restrict or limit their ability to wear a mask .
The order doesn ’ t apply in instances where it is “ impracticable ” to wear a mask , such as when eating or drinking , swimming , receiving medical or dental treatment , or inside a facility where distance between guests can be maintained .
Gov .
DeWine said he supports “ Mayor Whaley ’ s and Dayton ’ s decision to require the use of masks in public places.
” “ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases in their area , ” he said in a statement .
“ Masks are recommended by the CDC and medical professionals to help protect other people .
Wearing a mask will allow us to help keep businesses open and help prevent further spikes .
I encourage other communities to consider following Dayton ’ s lead.
” In his plan for reopening Ohio ’ s economy released in early May , DeWine attempted to include a statewide requirement to wear a face mask in any retail business .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ changed his mind about the policy after learning that some Ohioans found it “ offensive.
” Anthony Gockowski is managing editor of The Minnesota Sun and The Ohio Star .
Follow Anthony on Twitter .
Email tips to [ email protected ] .

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said he supports Dayton’s decision to require residents to wear face masks in public places.
The Dayton City Commission approved an ordinance Wednesday requiring “face coverings in public spaces.”
The ordinance took effect Friday morning and orders residents to “cover their nose and mouth” in indoor public places or in outdoor places where social distancing is not possible.
“I know that no one is excited about wearing a mask,” Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley said in a press release. “I know that wearing a mask is uncomfortable. I know that, unfortunately, wearing a mask has become a political flash point. But I also know that masks save lives. Masks are incredibly effective in reducing the spread of this virus. Masks are a small sacrifice that we can all make to take care of one another and to keep our businesses open as we continue to weather this storm.”
The ordinance does not require all people to wear a mask in every circumstance. Children under the age of six are not required to wear a mask, nor are people with medical conditions, mental health conditions, or developmental disabilities that restrict or limit their ability to wear a mask.
The order doesn’t apply in instances where it is “impracticable” to wear a mask, such as when eating or drinking, swimming, receiving medical or dental treatment, or inside a facility where distance between guests can be maintained.
Gov. DeWine said he supports “Mayor Whaley’s and Dayton’s decision to require the use of masks in public places.”
“It’s an appropriate and welcome response to increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases in their area,” he said in a statement. “Masks are recommended by the CDC and medical professionals to help protect other people. Wearing a mask will allow us to help keep businesses open and help prevent further spikes. I encourage other communities to consider following Dayton’s lead.”
In his plan for reopening Ohio’s economy released in early May, DeWine attempted to include a statewide requirement to wear a face mask in any retail business. The next day, however, he changed his mind about the policy after learning that some Ohioans found it “offensive.”
– – –
Anthony Gockowski is managing editor of The Minnesota Sun and The Ohio Star. Follow Anthony on Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].


thetennesseestar--2020-07-07--Federal Judge Dismisses Republican Lawsuit Over Constitutionality of Redistricting Commission

A federal judge on Monday dismissed a lawsuit backed by the Michigan Republican Party that claimed restrictions on members of the redistricting commission in the state were unconstitutional .
The Michigan Republican Party and Tony Daunt , the executive director for the Michigan Freedom Fund , had originally submitted two separate lawsuits that later joined together claiming that the voter-backed redistricting commission violated their constitutional rights , including right to association , according to MLive .
The commission , created in October 2019 , prohibits people who have served in the past six years as partisan political officials , candidates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prohibits their employees or close relatives from joining the commission .
The redistricting commission will redraw state electoral maps and will be comprised of four members who affiliate with the Republican party , four members who affiliate with the Democratic party and five members who are not affiliated with either major party .
U.S. District Judge Janet Neff ruled on Monday in favor of Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson , saying that the plaintiffs had failed to provide plausible evidence for their claims .
The ruling was applauded by Michigan Attorney General Dana @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what our democracy demands : a fair process for the people of this state , ” Nessel said in a statement .
“ In 2018 , Michiganders made it abundantly clear that the integrity of our democracy should not be left up to those in positions of power looking to satisfy their own agenda .
The Court ’ s decision today is historic for the people of this state and further solidifies their right to be heard.
” Daunt said that he will be reviewing the judge decision .
“ We continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michigan citizens from serving their state , targeting them for exercising their constitutional rights or , most egregiously , for simply being related to someone who does , ” he said in a statement , according to MLive .
Jordyn Pair is a reporter with The Michigan Star .
Follow her on Twitter at @ JordynPair .
Email her at [ email protected ]

A federal judge on Monday dismissed a lawsuit backed by the Michigan Republican Party that claimed restrictions on members of the redistricting commission in the state were unconstitutional.
The Michigan Republican Party and Tony Daunt, the executive director for the Michigan Freedom Fund, had originally submitted two separate lawsuits that later joined together claiming that the voter-backed redistricting commission violated their constitutional rights, including right to association, according to MLive.
The commission, created in October 2019, prohibits people who have served in the past six years as partisan political officials, candidates or registered lobbyist agents. It also prohibits their employees or close relatives from joining the commission. The redistricting commission will redraw state electoral maps and will be comprised of four members who affiliate with the Republican party, four members who affiliate with the Democratic party and five members who are not affiliated with either major party.
U.S. District Judge Janet Neff ruled on Monday in favor of Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, saying that the plaintiffs had failed to provide plausible evidence for their claims. The ruling was applauded by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.
“This decision reaffirms exactly what our democracy demands: a fair process for the people of this state,” Nessel said in a statement. “In 2018, Michiganders made it abundantly clear that the integrity of our democracy should not be left up to those in positions of power looking to satisfy their own agenda. The Court’s decision today is historic for the people of this state and further solidifies their right to be heard.”
Daunt said that he will be reviewing the judge decision.
“We continue to believe that these restrictions unfairly prohibit certain Michigan citizens from serving their state, targeting them for exercising their constitutional rights or, most egregiously, for simply being related to someone who does,” he said in a statement, according to MLive.
Read the full decision here.
– – –
Jordyn Pair is a reporter with The Michigan Star. Follow her on Twitter at @JordynPair. Email her at [email protected]


thetennesseestar--2020-07-07--Michigan State University Student Government Seeks to Ban All ‘Chemical Compounds’ Used by Campus Po

Michigan State University Student Government Seeks to Ban All ‘Chemical Compounds’ Used by Campus Police

Michigan State University ’ s student government recently passed a police reform measure hoping to ban the use of chemical compounds and decrease funding and called for non-citizen financial aid .
The 57th Session of the Associated Students of MSU ( ASMSU ) met June 18 for an emergency meeting called by ASMSU President Abii-Tah Bih , citing “ turbulent times.
” The assembly discussed six pieces of legislation using Zoom .
In response to George Floyd ’ s death , MSU ’ s Black Student Alliance ( BSA ) and Culturas De Las Razas Unidas ( CRU ) introduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ University to reform the MSU Police Department.
” “ MSU police and as well as East Lansing police have histories of brutality acts and bias incidents , ” BSA president Sharron Reed-Davis began .
Further citing the need to keep the police department accountable , Davis said “ they ’ ve received way too much money…as their funding increases I believe that police brutality will increase.
” BSA and CRU are registered student organizations with representative seats within the ASMSU General Assembly .
Bill 57-06 faced criticism of partisanship from Business College representative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gavyn Webb .
In response to Morris ’ criticisms that the bill “ crosses the line ” into partisan nature , BSA ’ s president said , “ this bill isn ’ t about policy , this bill isn ’ t about politics , it ’ s just about humanity .
Like either you care about the lives that are being lost or you don ’ t. ” The bill calls on MSU to review funding for the MSU Police Department ( MSUPD ) , to “ remove all unnecessary and excessive funding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where needed , ” and redirect funds to diversity efforts such as a multicultural building .
Information on traffic stops by race , ethnicity , and gender is further asked .
Additionally , the bill requests increased transparency into investigations of police officers .
The reform bill also calls for a ban on the “ use of chemical compounds as a means of suppression or force , ” it was not clarified if the bill authors intended to include firearms in the ban .
When representative Jacob Turner critiqued the bill ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” representative Chloe Majzel responded , “ we just didn ’ t want to look up and list every single chemical compound that police officers used.
” Further Majzel said , “ we just want all of it gone.
” Turner and Majzel respectively represent MSU ’ s North American Indigenous Student Organization and MSU ’ s Asian Pacific American Student Organization .
The bill passed with a majority vote and two dissenters .
ASMSU shifted focus to Bill 57-07 , a resolution to “ Call for Michigan State University to establish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not eligible for FAFSA due to their citizenship status.
” Vice President of CRU , Alondra Alvarez , shared her organization ’ s support .
“ We believe that everyone deserves some financial help , ” cited non-citizens do not get FAFSA aid , and “ so we think the least that MSU could do for these students is to come up with a fund.
” The bill did not specify how much money non-citizens would receive , and ASMSU Vice President for Finance and Operations Jordan Polk indicated that she believes students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The bill was passed with unanimous support by voice .
MSU ’ s student government operates on a two million dollar budget and consists of college elected representatives and representatives appointed by racial , ethnic , and social groups .
Anthony Barash is a contributor to The Morning Watch .
Read more at themorningwatchmsu.com .
Photo “ Police Officer ” by David Shankbone CC2.0 and “ Michigan State University ” is by Ken Lund CC2.0 .

by Anthony Barash
Michigan State University’s student government recently passed a police reform measure hoping to ban the use of chemical compounds and decrease funding and called for non-citizen financial aid.
The 57th Session of the Associated Students of MSU (ASMSU) met June 18 for an emergency meeting called by ASMSU President Abii-Tah Bih, citing “turbulent times.” The assembly discussed six pieces of legislation using Zoom.
In response to George Floyd’s death, MSU’s Black Student Alliance (BSA) and Culturas De Las Razas Unidas (CRU) introduced Bill 57-06, “Advocate Michigan State University to reform the MSU Police Department.”
“MSU police and as well as East Lansing police have histories of brutality acts and bias incidents,” BSA president Sharron Reed-Davis began. Further citing the need to keep the police department accountable, Davis said “they’ve received way too much money…as their funding increases I believe that police brutality will increase.”
BSA and CRU are registered student organizations with representative seats within the ASMSU General Assembly.
Bill 57-06 faced criticism of partisanship from Business College representative Tim Morris and James Madison College representative Gavyn Webb.
In response to Morris’ criticisms that the bill “crosses the line” into partisan nature, BSA’s president said, “this bill isn’t about policy, this bill isn’t about politics, it’s just about humanity. Like either you care about the lives that are being lost or you don’t.”
The bill calls on MSU to review funding for the MSU Police Department (MSUPD), to “remove all unnecessary and excessive funding and personnel, and include salary reduction where needed,” and redirect funds to diversity efforts such as a multicultural building. Information on traffic stops by race, ethnicity, and gender is further asked. Additionally, the bill requests increased transparency into investigations of police officers.
The reform bill also calls for a ban on the “use of chemical compounds as a means of suppression or force,” it was not clarified if the bill authors intended to include firearms in the ban.
When representative Jacob Turner critiqued the bill’s vagueness in regards to “chemical compounds,” representative Chloe Majzel responded, “we just didn’t want to look up and list every single chemical compound that police officers used.” Further Majzel said, “we just want all of it gone.”
Turner and Majzel respectively represent MSU’s North American Indigenous Student Organization and MSU’s Asian Pacific American Student Organization.
The bill passed with a majority vote and two dissenters. ASMSU shifted focus to Bill 57-07, a resolution to “Call for Michigan State University to establish a scholarship fund for students who are not eligible for FAFSA due to their citizenship status.”
Vice President of CRU, Alondra Alvarez, shared her organization’s support. “We believe that everyone deserves some financial help,” cited non-citizens do not get FAFSA aid, and “so we think the least that MSU could do for these students is to come up with a fund.”
The bill did not specify how much money non-citizens would receive, and ASMSU Vice President for Finance and Operations Jordan Polk indicated that she believes students may receive up to five thousand dollars. The bill was passed with unanimous support by voice.
MSU’s student government operates on a two million dollar budget and consists of college elected representatives and representatives appointed by racial, ethnic, and social groups.
– – –
Anthony Barash is a contributor to The Morning Watch. Read more at themorningwatchmsu.com.
Photo “Police Officer” by David Shankbone CC2.0 and “Michigan State University” is by Ken Lund CC2.0.


thetennesseestar--2020-07-07--Gov. DeWine’s Company, which Owns a Minor Baseball Team in North Carolina, Gets Loan from Federal Vi

Gov. DeWine’s Company, which Owns a Minor Baseball Team in North Carolina, Gets Loan from Federal Virus Aid Program

COLUMBUS , Ohio ( AP ) — A company partly owned by Ohio Gov .
Mike DeWine is among those that received loans from a $ 600 billion-plus coronavirus aid program .
The data released Monday shows DeWine Seeds Silver Dollar Baseball received a loan under the Small Business Administration ’ s Paycheck Protection Program for a range of $ 150,000 to $ 350,000 .
The company owns the Asheville Tourists , a minor league baseball team in North Carolina , which was purchased by the governor ’ s family in 2010 .
DeWine ’ s son , Brian DeWine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ baseball team .
DeWine , a Republican , said through a spokesman that he holds a 32 % stake in the baseball team and plays no management role .
Spokesman Dan Tierney said the loan was for $ 189,500 , to be used to cover payroll and payroll-related expenses .
DeWine was touted for his early , aggressive response to the virus , while also getting pushback for his actions ’ effects on the economy .
He was one of at least six governors of both parties with stakes in businesses that records @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Paycheck Protection Program is the centerpiece of the federal government ’ s plan to rescue an economy devastated by shutdowns and uncertainty .
The program , which helps smaller businesses stay open and keep Americans employed during the pandemic , has been both popular and controversial .
Within Ohio , tens of thousands of businesses received loans , records showed .
They ranged from hospitals to colleges , from law firms to manufacturing companies .
A small percentage of successful applicants were nonprofits , among them Cleveland ’ s Playhouse Square , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Ohio Historical Society .
Fast-food chain White Castle , headquartered in Columbus , also received a loan under the program .
The types of businesses that applied reflected the economic distress felt within a range of industries in Ohio since the pandemic began to take its toll in mid-March .
Under the PPP , the government is backing $ 659 billion in low-interest loans written by banks .
Taxpayer money will pay off the loans if borrowers use them on payroll , rent , and similar expenses .
Companies typically must have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Demand was so great that the first infusion of $ 349 billion ran out in just two weeks .
Many Main Street businesses couldn ’ t navigate the application process rapidly enough to get one of those first loans before funding dried up .
Meanwhile , several hundred companies traded on stock exchanges – hardly the image of a small business – received loans maxing out at $ 10 million each , causing a public backlash and leading dozens to return the money .
Congress added $ 310 billion to the program , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restrictive rules cooled interest .
About $ 140 billion was unclaimed as the application deadline closed June 30 .
With money still available , Congress voted to extend the program just as it was expiring , setting a new date of Aug. 8 .
The public may never know the identity of more than 80 % of the nearly 5 million beneficiaries to date because the administration has refused to release details on loans under $ 150,000 – the vast majority of borrowers .
That secrecy spurred an open-records lawsuit by a group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Press .
Still , the release of the data is the most complete look at the program ’ s recipients so far .
Farnoush Amiri is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative .
Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues .
Photo “ The Asheville Tourists ” by Asheville Tourists Baseball Club .

by Farnoush Amiri
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — A company partly owned by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine is among those that received loans from a $600 billion-plus coronavirus aid program.
The data released Monday shows DeWine Seeds Silver Dollar Baseball received a loan under the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program for a range of $150,000 to $350,000.
The company owns the Asheville Tourists, a minor league baseball team in North Carolina, which was purchased by the governor’s family in 2010. DeWine’s son, Brian DeWine, currently serves as president of the baseball team.
DeWine, a Republican, said through a spokesman that he holds a 32% stake in the baseball team and plays no management role. Spokesman Dan Tierney said the loan was for $189,500, to be used to cover payroll and payroll-related expenses.
DeWine was touted for his early, aggressive response to the virus, while also getting pushback for his actions’ effects on the economy. He was one of at least six governors of both parties with stakes in businesses that records showed got loans through the program.
The Paycheck Protection Program is the centerpiece of the federal government’s plan to rescue an economy devastated by shutdowns and uncertainty. The program, which helps smaller businesses stay open and keep Americans employed during the pandemic, has been both popular and controversial.
Within Ohio, tens of thousands of businesses received loans, records showed. They ranged from hospitals to colleges, from law firms to manufacturing companies. A small percentage of successful applicants were nonprofits, among them Cleveland’s Playhouse Square, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Ohio Historical Society. Fast-food chain White Castle, headquartered in Columbus, also received a loan under the program.
The types of businesses that applied reflected the economic distress felt within a range of industries in Ohio since the pandemic began to take its toll in mid-March.
Under the PPP, the government is backing $659 billion in low-interest loans written by banks. Taxpayer money will pay off the loans if borrowers use them on payroll, rent, and similar expenses. Companies typically must have fewer than 500 workers to qualify.
Demand was so great that the first infusion of $349 billion ran out in just two weeks. Many Main Street businesses couldn’t navigate the application process rapidly enough to get one of those first loans before funding dried up. Meanwhile, several hundred companies traded on stock exchanges – hardly the image of a small business – received loans maxing out at $10 million each, causing a public backlash and leading dozens to return the money.
Congress added $310 billion to the program, but confusing, shifting, and sometimes restrictive rules cooled interest. About $140 billion was unclaimed as the application deadline closed June 30. With money still available, Congress voted to extend the program just as it was expiring, setting a new date of Aug. 8.
The public may never know the identity of more than 80% of the nearly 5 million beneficiaries to date because the administration has refused to release details on loans under $150,000 – the vast majority of borrowers.
That secrecy spurred an open-records lawsuit by a group of news organizations, including The Associated Press.
Still, the release of the data is the most complete look at the program’s recipients so far.
– – –
Farnoush Amiri is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
Photo “The Asheville Tourists” by Asheville Tourists Baseball Club.


thetennesseestar--2020-07-07--Electronic Security Question to be on Michigan’s November Ballot

Michigan voters will see a question on the Nov. 3 ballot asking whether police should need a warrant to search electronic data .
The federal and state Constitution protects against unreasonable search and seizure of people ’ s “ houses , papers , and effects ” without a warrant .
The Senate and House unanimously approved Senate Joint Resolution G to clarify that electronic data and communication are also protected items .
Resolution sponsor Sen. Jim Runestad , R-White Lake , said in a statement it ’ s “ a historic step toward protecting the privacy rights of Michiganders for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the opportunity to make Michigan a national leader in personal privacy protection.
” Runestad ’ s chief of staff , Adam Stacey , told The Center Square that the resolution applies broadly to state government power for “ any form of future technology , device or manner of collecting information ” without consent .
Other states have already taken this step .
Missouri and New Hampshire voters approved a similar amendment with 75 percent and 81 percent voter approval .
“ Americans shouldn ’ t be forced to choose between using new technologies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ It is long past time that our state extends the same basic protections to our electronic data that have existed for our paper data for centuries , ” he added .
“ While we can ’ t predict what technological advances will come next , this amendment guarantees that our personal data is secure from state overreach , ” Runestad said .
The Michigan State Police and the Michigan Sheriffs Association didn ’ t respond to a request for comment .
Karen Gullo , a senior media relations specialist at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told The Center Square that law enforcement should obtain a warrant before accessing people ’ s electronic data and communications .
“ The electronic data stored on our devices is a window into our entire lives – where we go , what we say to co-workers and friends , who our family is , where we bank and shop , what our personal documents say , and what our political beliefs are , ” Gullo wrote in an email .
“ People have a right to privacy over this intensely private , highly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it , they should go to court and explain to a judge why.
” Gullo cited two U.S. Supreme Court rulings , Riley v. California in 2014 and Carpenter v. United States in 2018 in which the Fourth Amendment applied to modern technology .
Gullo added : “ In a unanimous decision by Chief Justice [ John ] Roberts in the 2014 case , the court wrote , ‘ Our answer to the question of what police must do before searching a cell phone seized incident to an arrest is accordingly simple – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a staff writer covering Michigan and Minnesota for The Center Square .
A graduate of Hillsdale College , his work has appeared on Forbes.com and FEE.org .

by Scott McClallen
Michigan voters will see a question on the Nov. 3 ballot asking whether police should need a warrant to search electronic data.
The federal and state Constitution protects against unreasonable search and seizure of people’s “houses, papers, and effects” without a warrant.
The Senate and House unanimously approved Senate Joint Resolution G to clarify that electronic data and communication are also protected items.
Resolution sponsor Sen. Jim Runestad, R-White Lake, said in a statement it’s “a historic step toward protecting the privacy rights of Michiganders for generations to come. We now have the opportunity to make Michigan a national leader in personal privacy protection.”
Runestad’s chief of staff, Adam Stacey, told The Center Square that the resolution applies broadly to state government power for “any form of future technology, device or manner of collecting information” without consent.
Other states have already taken this step.
Missouri and New Hampshire voters approved a similar amendment with 75 percent and 81 percent voter approval.
“Americans shouldn’t be forced to choose between using new technologies and protecting their privacy,” Runestad said. “It is long past time that our state extends the same basic protections to our electronic data that have existed for our paper data for centuries,” he added.
“While we can’t predict what technological advances will come next, this amendment guarantees that our personal data is secure from state overreach,” Runestad said.
The Michigan State Police and the Michigan Sheriffs Association didn’t respond to a request for comment.
Karen Gullo, a senior media relations specialist at the San Francisco-based Electronic Frontier Foundation, told The Center Square that law enforcement should obtain a warrant before accessing people’s electronic data and communications.
“The electronic data stored on our devices is a window into our entire lives – where we go, what we say to co-workers and friends, who our family is, where we bank and shop, what our personal documents say, and what our political beliefs are,” Gullo wrote in an email.
“People have a right to privacy over this intensely private, highly personal information, and if police want it, they should go to court and explain to a judge why.”
Gullo cited two U.S. Supreme Court rulings, Riley v. California in 2014 and Carpenter v. United States in 2018 in which the Fourth Amendment applied to modern technology.
Gullo added: “In a unanimous decision by Chief Justice [John] Roberts in the 2014 case, the court wrote, ‘Our answer to the question of what police must do before searching a cell phone seized incident to an arrest is accordingly simple – get a warrant.’”
– – –
Scott McClallen is a staff writer covering Michigan and Minnesota for The Center Square. A graduate of Hillsdale College, his work has appeared on Forbes.com and FEE.org.


thetennesseestar--2020-07-07--COVID-19: Williamson County Mayor Mandates Residents Cover Faces in Public Starting This Week

Williamson County residents must wear face coverings or masks in public to fight COVID-19 starting Tuesday .
County residents will have to wear masks or other coverings in public until at least August 3 .
County Mayor Rogers Anderson announced the news Monday in a press release on the Williamson County Government ’ s Facebook page .
In a separate Facebook post , a video , Anderson said he acted on other people ’ s advice .
“ Many other health care professionals think this is the best approach , as all of you know , ” Anderson said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health care professionals .
“ I am not a doctor .
I am listening to those people who suggest that we do this to help slow this virus down.
” Anderson , in his press release , also said he consulted with each of the mayors of the county ’ s various municipalities as well as the school superintendents for the county ’ s two school districts .
But county officials offered no evidence from studies that support the assertion that cloth or face mask mandates limit the spread of COVID-19 .
Nor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claim that cases , hospitalizations , or deaths are increasing in the county .
The Tennessee Star asked county spokeswoman Diane Giddens if Anderson and other county officials could point to any studies that confirm that cloth or surgical masks stop the spread of COVID-19 .
“ The decision to require face coverings is based on recommendations from federal and state health officials , including the CDC and the State of Tennessee Department of Health , ” Giddens said .
Officials at the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , on their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ events and other gatherings , especially when physical distancing is difficult .
The TDH ’ s website , meanwhile , refers to CDC guidelines for businesses , restaurants , and bars .
The Star then asked what is Williamson County ’ s 14-day trend of cases , hospitalizations , and deaths .
Giddens did not answer directly and instead referred us “ to whatever link on the EMA website gives the most up-to-date information.
” According to the TDH ’ s website , and since the virus hit the United States , Williamson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1,340 confirmed or probable COVID-19 cases as of Monday afternoon .
The virus had claimed the lives of 15 county residents .
Exactly 1,550 county residents had tested positive for COVID-19 via Polymerase Chain Reaction diagnostic tests .
Exactly 19,941 county residents had tested negative through the same PCR tests .
Exactly 581 county residents had recovered .
The TDH website , which lists the state ’ s hospitalization data , does not narrow information by county .
Giddens said she knew not all people would support Anderson ’ s decision .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opinion regarding the use of face coverings , in light of the increasing numbers we believe that the minor inconvenience of wearing a face covering when in public establishments is a better alternative than risking further closure of businesses and/or the inability of our schools to open in the fall , ” Giddens said .
“ We are optimistic that our citizens will do their part so that we can all remain healthy and productive.
” The CDC initially advised against requiring the public to wear masks , but reversed course on that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no medical studies to support the decision .
While no studies directly measure the medical impact of cloth or surgical masks on the spread of COVID-19 , a public health study , published in Healthaffairs.org last month by researchers Wei Lyu and George L. Wehby , studied COVID-19 examined the community use of face masks , and government mandates to wear them in the United States .
The results were not convincing that masks have much effect .
According to the abstract of their study , which simply examined the change in COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : State policies mandating public or community use of face masks or covers in mitigating novel coronavirus disease ( COVID-19 ) spread are hotly contested .
This study provides evidence from a natural experiment on effects of state government mandates in the US for face mask use in public issued by 15 states plus DC between April 8 and May 15 .
The research design is an event study examining changes in the daily county-level COVID-19 growth rates between March 31 , 2020 and May 22 , 2020 .
Mandating face mask use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the daily COVID-19 growth rate by 0.9 , 1.1 , 1.4 , 1.7 , and 2.0 percentage-points in 1–5 , 6–10 , 11–15 , 16–20 , and 21+ days after signing , respectively .
Estimates suggest as many as 230,000–450,000 COVID-19 cases possibly averted By May 22 , 2020 by these mandates .
The findings suggest that requiring face mask use in public might help in mitigating COVID-19 spread .
On July 3 , Gov .
Bill Lee signed Executive Order 54 that grants county mayors in 89 counties the authority to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to slow the spread of COVID-19 .
“ Per the governor ’ s order , violation is a Class A misdemeanor , ” Giddens said when The Star asked about enforcement mechanisms .
Critics claim the governor ’ s executive order and Anderson ’ s executive order requiring face masks are unconstitutional and will not survive court challenges .
In a column for The Star last month , board certified emergency physician Simone Gold said the scientific usefulness of a mask is “ aggressively overstated.
” “ The Covid virus was supposed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where people wear astronaut suits and go through triple sealed doors .
It is a con of massive proportion to assert that now , having escaped those environs , a bandana will magically do the trick .
After all , size matters , ” Gold wrote .
“ The pore size of cloth face coverings range from ~ 20-100 microns .
The Covid virus is 200-1000x smaller than that , at 0.1 microns .
Putting up a chain link fence will not keep out a mosquito .
Even the most esteemed medical journals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Chris Butler is an investigative journalist at The Tennessee Star .
Follow Chris on Facebook .
Email tips to [ email protected ]

Williamson County residents must wear face coverings or masks in public to fight COVID-19 starting Tuesday.
County residents will have to wear masks or other coverings in public until at least August 3.
County Mayor Rogers Anderson announced the news Monday in a press release on the Williamson County Government’s Facebook page.
In a separate Facebook post, a video, Anderson said he acted on other people’s advice.
“Many other health care professionals think this is the best approach, as all of you know,” Anderson said, even though he did not specify which health care professionals.
“I am not a doctor. I am listening to those people who suggest that we do this to help slow this virus down.”
Anderson, in his press release, also said he consulted with each of the mayors of the county’s various municipalities as well as the school superintendents for the county’s two school districts.
But county officials offered no evidence from studies that support the assertion that cloth or face mask mandates limit the spread of COVID-19. Nor did they provide evidence to support the claim that cases, hospitalizations, or deaths are increasing in the county.
Do Masks Stop COVID-19?
The Tennessee Star asked county spokeswoman Diane Giddens if Anderson and other county officials could point to any studies that confirm that cloth or surgical masks stop the spread of COVID-19.
“The decision to require face coverings is based on recommendations from federal and state health officials, including the CDC and the State of Tennessee Department of Health,” Giddens said.
Officials at the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, on their website, recommend face cloth coverings for events and other gatherings, especially when physical distancing is difficult. The TDH’s website, meanwhile, refers to CDC guidelines for businesses, restaurants, and bars.
The Star then asked what is Williamson County’s 14-day trend of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. Giddens did not answer directly and instead referred us “to whatever link on the EMA website gives the most up-to-date information.”
According to the TDH’s website, and since the virus hit the United States, Williamson County has had a sum total of 1,340 confirmed or probable COVID-19 cases as of Monday afternoon. The virus had claimed the lives of 15 county residents. Exactly 1,550 county residents had tested positive for COVID-19 via Polymerase Chain Reaction diagnostic tests. Exactly 19,941 county residents had tested negative through the same PCR tests. Exactly 581 county residents had recovered. The TDH website, which lists the state’s hospitalization data, does not narrow information by county.
Giddens said she knew not all people would support Anderson’s decision.
“While we recognize there are differences of opinion regarding the use of face coverings, in light of the increasing numbers we believe that the minor inconvenience of wearing a face covering when in public establishments is a better alternative than risking further closure of businesses and/or the inability of our schools to open in the fall,” Giddens said.
“We are optimistic that our citizens will do their part so that we can all remain healthy and productive.”
The CDC initially advised against requiring the public to wear masks, but reversed course on that issue in February, though it provided no medical studies to support the decision.
While no studies directly measure the medical impact of cloth or surgical masks on the spread of COVID-19, a public health study, published in Healthaffairs.org last month by researchers Wei Lyu and George L. Wehby, studied COVID-19 examined the community use of face masks, and government mandates to wear them in the United States.
The results were not convincing that masks have much effect. According to the abstract of their study, which simply examined the change in COVID-19 cases in states that had mandated masks:
State policies mandating public or community use of face masks or covers in mitigating novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) spread are hotly contested. This study provides evidence from a natural experiment on effects of state government mandates in the US for face mask use in public issued by 15 states plus DC between April 8 and May 15. The research design is an event study examining changes in the daily county-level COVID-19 growth rates between March 31, 2020 and May 22, 2020. Mandating face mask use in public is associated with a decline in the daily COVID-19 growth rate by 0.9, 1.1, 1.4, 1.7, and 2.0 percentage-points in 1–5, 6–10, 11–15, 16–20, and 21+ days after signing, respectively. Estimates suggest as many as 230,000–450,000 COVID-19 cases possibly averted By May 22, 2020 by these mandates. The findings suggest that requiring face mask use in public might help in mitigating COVID-19 spread.
Executive Orders
On July 3, Gov. Bill Lee signed Executive Order 54 that grants county mayors in 89 counties the authority to make citizens wear face coverings in public to slow the spread of COVID-19.
“Per the governor’s order, violation is a Class A misdemeanor,” Giddens said when The Star asked about enforcement mechanisms.
Critics claim the governor’s executive order and Anderson’s executive order requiring face masks are unconstitutional and will not survive court challenges.
In a column for The Star last month, board certified emergency physician Simone Gold said the scientific usefulness of a mask is “aggressively overstated.”
“The Covid virus was supposed to be contained in the kind of lab where people wear astronaut suits and go through triple sealed doors. It is a con of massive proportion to assert that now, having escaped those environs, a bandana will magically do the trick. After all, size matters,” Gold wrote.
“The pore size of cloth face coverings range from ~ 20-100 microns. The Covid virus is 200-1000x smaller than that, at 0.1 microns. Putting up a chain link fence will not keep out a mosquito. Even the most esteemed medical journals admit their purpose is to calm anxiety.”
– – –
Chris Butler is an investigative journalist at The Tennessee Star. Follow Chris on Facebook. Email tips to [email protected]


thetennesseestar--2020-07-08--Cohen Urges Lee to Remove Nathan Bedford Forrest Bust, Rename State Park

Rep. Steve Cohen ( D-TN-09 ) urged Gov .
Bill Lee to remove a bust of Nathan Bedford Forrest from the State Capitol and rename a state park that bears his name .
In a letter sent to Lee Monday , Cohen asked the Republican governor to “ demonstrate leadership on an issue that causes so much pain in the Black community in Tennessee.
” Lee announced last week that he has called a meeting of the State Capitol Commission , the body responsible for historical displays in the Capitol , which will convene July 9 .
“ It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on whether to move the Nathan Bedford Forrest bust .
I ’ ll make a specific proposal for what they ’ ll vote on next week , but I want to acknowledge the importance of the process that we have here in Tennessee , ” Lee said during a July 1 press conference .
“ The commission process that is set up by the Legislature protects the integrity of historical displays so that any changes are rooted in thoughtful , civic discourse .
This process is the opposite of the mob rule that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ national headlines around historical displays , ” he added .
In his letter , Cohen told Lee that he “ hopes this means you have taken the lead on the removal of the bust of Nathan Bedford Forrest.
” “ As you may recall , I wrote to you on January 4 , 2019 and February 22 , 2019 urging you to remove the bust , ” said Cohen .
“ I hope that you will also take the lead in renaming the Nathan Bedford Forest State Park in Eva , TN which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At Gov .
Lee ’ s request , the Tennessee Senate passed a bill ( already approved by the House ) last month that will exempt Lee from having to declare July 13 Nathan Bedford Forrest Day , which has been a requirement of every governor since 1969 .
A bust of Forrest , a Confederate general and the first grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan , was first placed in the State Capitol in 1978 .
The State Capitol Commission considered the removal of the bust in February , but ultimately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported .
“ I hope you will seize this moment and make the country look at Tennessee as a progressive and forward moving state , ” Cohen concluded his letter .
Anthony Gockowski is managing editor of The Minnesota Sun and The Ohio Star .
Follow Anthony on Twitter .
Email tips to [ email protected ] .

Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) urged Gov. Bill Lee to remove a bust of Nathan Bedford Forrest from the State Capitol and rename a state park that bears his name.
In a letter sent to Lee Monday, Cohen asked the Republican governor to “demonstrate leadership on an issue that causes so much pain in the Black community in Tennessee.”
Lee announced last week that he has called a meeting of the State Capitol Commission, the body responsible for historical displays in the Capitol, which will convene July 9.
“It’s my expectation that they will vote on whether to move the Nathan Bedford Forrest bust. I’ll make a specific proposal for what they’ll vote on next week, but I want to acknowledge the importance of the process that we have here in Tennessee,” Lee said during a July 1 press conference.
“The commission process that is set up by the Legislature protects the integrity of historical displays so that any changes are rooted in thoughtful, civic discourse. This process is the opposite of the mob rule that, unfortunately, has been dominating the national headlines around historical displays,” he added.
In his letter, Cohen told Lee that he “hopes this means you have taken the lead on the removal of the bust of Nathan Bedford Forrest.”
“As you may recall, I wrote to you on January 4, 2019 and February 22, 2019 urging you to remove the bust,” said Cohen. “I hope that you will also take the lead in renaming the Nathan Bedford Forest State Park in Eva, TN which is equally as distasteful and inappropriate.”
At Gov. Lee’s request, the Tennessee Senate passed a bill (already approved by the House) last month that will exempt Lee from having to declare July 13 Nathan Bedford Forrest Day, which has been a requirement of every governor since 1969. A bust of Forrest, a Confederate general and the first grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, was first placed in the State Capitol in 1978.
The State Capitol Commission considered the removal of the bust in February, but ultimately took no action, The Tennessee Star reported.
“I hope you will seize this moment and make the country look at Tennessee as a progressive and forward moving state,” Cohen concluded his letter.
– – –
Anthony Gockowski is managing editor of The Minnesota Sun and The Ohio Star. Follow Anthony on Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].


thetennesseestar--2020-07-08--Commentary: Point of No Return

Commentary: Point of No Return

Donald Trump gave the greatest speech of his career on Friday night at Mount Rushmore , an address that will soon take on historic importance .
The president has now forced his opponents out of their fetid hothouse of snobbery , humbug , and subversion .
In the process he has forced the Bush Republicans , who led the party between the retirement of Ronald Reagan and the rise of Donald Trump , to show their colors .
George H. W. Bush became president because James Baker , his campaign manager in 1980 when he was running against Ronald Reagan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to throw his lot in with Reagan after the former California governor ’ s nomination victory was assured , but while Bush could still win another primary .
Not having strong views on the subject , Reagan gave Bush ( as the distant runner-up for the nomination ) the vice-presidential position .
He was a dutiful vice president and competent president , but he never understood how or why Reagan had moved the Republican Party .
When Bush sought reelection in 1992 , he lost 20 million mainly Republican votes to the political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clintons down upon America .
President Clinton moved the Democratic Party closer to the center , away from the nostrums of Jimmy Carter and George McGovern .
And the Bush-McCain-Romney Republicans were almost Clintonian political look-alikes .
It was OBushinton government for seven terms and , on balance , it was a disaster .
There was almost permanent entanglement in the Middle East after 2001 , with the principal consequence that Iran gained a dominating influence over most Iraqis .
International terrorism was skillfully fought and contained but Iraq , Syria , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involving millions of pitiful refugees resulted ; the greatest financial crisis in the world since the Great Depression occurred—traceable directly to President Clinton ’ s regulatory and legislative sponsorship of the housing bubble ; 10 to 15 million unskilled people entered the U.S. illegally , and the working and middle classes of America experienced a prolonged period of no increase in their income as measured by purchasing power .
Iran and North Korea were allowed to get to the edge of nuclear military power and China was challenging U.S. interests everywhere .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government in American history , exceeding the decade prior to the Civil War and even the Prohibition , isolationism , and the crash of 1929 which led to the Great Depression of the 1930s .
Distinctions became blurred between Republicans and Democrats , and the mediocre performance of the United States in the world and the failure of scores of millions of hard-working Americans to better their lot created the discontent in which Donald Trump was able to win control of the Republican Party by sweeping the primaries in 2016 .
At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led by journeyman socialist Bernie Sanders came close to defeating Hillary Clinton for the Democratic nomination in 2016 .
Sanders was on the way to winning the nomination this year when the party elders picked Joe Biden out of the ditch where the Democratic primary voters had put him and installed him as the candidate .
Since Trump led a revolution against all the established factions of both parties , they joined hands to deny him any honeymoon .
The first three years of his presidency were consumed by the almost certainly criminal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attempt .
By late January , Trump ’ s success in almost eliminating unemployment , oil imports , and illegal immigration , and his revival of economic growth , revision of trade agreements , and elevation of nearly 200 constitutionalist judges , had made his election appear almost inevitable .
The Democrats naturally shrieked with glee at the prospect of shutting down the economy to fight the COVID-19 virus , and have continually demanded an economically self-strangling shutdown for an indefinite period .
The pandemic has had the additional blessing of giving Democrats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his basement , as Joe Biden is obviously not up to the very tough process that a successful presidential candidacy requires .
The pandemic ’ s cumulative impact on the voters , the precipitation of more than 15 million people into unemployment in the resulting shutdown , and the severe urban violence that assaulted every principal tenet of American patriotism following the death of George Floyd , all combined to produce the astounding anomaly that Joe Biden appears to lead Donald Trump in pre-election polls by as much as eight or ten percent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be the long-anticipated dissolution of the Trump political phenomenon , the NeverTrumpers ( Republicans who had never rallied to this president ) have come snorting out of the undergrowth in full fraternization with the Biden Democrats .
This adherence to Biden , whom they had reviled or at least disdained for decades , occurred as the Democrats themselves waffled ambiguously in the face of urban guerrillas smashing up many of America ’ s greatest cities , and as the flaccid and corrupt Democratic governments of those cities abased themselves before Black Lives Matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As the leadership of Black Lives Matter is professedly Marxist and rejects the proposition that all lives matter , it is an overtly and violently anti-white , racist institution of the far Left .
Antifa are violent , racist fellow-travelers .
In failing to condemn these groups unequivocally , the Democratic Party will soon discover that it has been mortally infected by cohabitation with them .
President Trump spoke nothing but the truth at Mount Rushmore on Friday when he said “ Our nation is witnessing a merciless campaign to wipe out our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our values , and indoctrinate our children .
Angry mobs are trying to tear down statues of our founders , deface our most sacred memorials , and unleash a wave of violent crime in our cities .
Many of these people have no idea why they are doing this but some know exactly what they are doing.
” It is inconceivable that the FBI—particularly with the opprobrium it has rightly attracted for its antics in the Russian collusion canard—is not close to being able to indict the leadership of Black Lives Matter and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ range of violent crimes , including murder and arson .
It is also inconceivable that the country could fail to choose the president ’ s championship of patriotic continuity with strong emphasis on racial equality and the highest standards of civilized law enforcement over the nihilism and Americo-phobic mob rule of the post-George Floyd rioters whom the Democrats in their decadent insipidity have appeased .
The almost inexpressibly contemptible Democratic de Blasio regime in New York City has reduced the police budget by $ 1 billion as violent crime has more than doubled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the economy brought back nearly 5 million workers out of unemployment in June and this process should continue .
The fatality rates of the pandemic have declined by nearly 90 percent from their high , with spread of the virus now concentrated amongst those who can best resist it .
The subject of pathetic Democratic hand-wringing , the surge in new cases is effectively irrelevant other than that it increases national immunity to it .
Former conservatives and pillars of the pre-Trump Republican Party are now facing the point of no return .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost leaderless Democratic Party now closely allied with pestilence and racist mayhem , they will never have any political influence in any party again .
The time to choose between irreconcilable opposites is almost at hand .
Conrad Black has been one of Canada ’ s most prominent financiers for 40 years , and was one of the leading newspaper publishers in the world as owner of the British telegraph newspapers , the Fairfax newspapers in Australia , the Jerusalem Post , Chicago Sun-Times and scores of smaller newspapers in the U.S. , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Canada .
He is the author of authoritative biographies of Franklin D. Roosevelt and Richard Nixon , one-volume histories of the United States and Canada , and most recently of Donald J. Trump : A President Like No Other .
He is a member of the British House of Lords as Lord Black of Crossharbour .
Photo “ Donald Trump ” by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff .
CC BY 2.0 .

by Conrad Black
Donald Trump gave the greatest speech of his career on Friday night at Mount Rushmore, an address that will soon take on historic importance. The president has now forced his opponents out of their fetid hothouse of snobbery, humbug, and subversion. In the process he has forced the Bush Republicans, who led the party between the retirement of Ronald Reagan and the rise of Donald Trump, to show their colors.
George H. W. Bush became president because James Baker, his campaign manager in 1980 when he was running against Ronald Reagan for the Republican nomination, persuaded him to throw his lot in with Reagan after the former California governor’s nomination victory was assured, but while Bush could still win another primary. Not having strong views on the subject, Reagan gave Bush (as the distant runner-up for the nomination) the vice-presidential position. He was a dutiful vice president and competent president, but he never understood how or why Reagan had moved the Republican Party.
When Bush sought reelection in 1992, he lost 20 million mainly Republican votes to the political charlatan Ross Perot, thereby bringing the Clintons down upon America. President Clinton moved the Democratic Party closer to the center, away from the nostrums of Jimmy Carter and George McGovern. And the Bush-McCain-Romney Republicans were almost Clintonian political look-alikes.
It was OBushinton government for seven terms and, on balance, it was a disaster.
There was almost permanent entanglement in the Middle East after 2001, with the principal consequence that Iran gained a dominating influence over most Iraqis. International terrorism was skillfully fought and contained but Iraq, Syria, and Yemen disintegrated, an immense humanitarian disaster involving millions of pitiful refugees resulted; the greatest financial crisis in the world since the Great Depression occurred—traceable directly to President Clinton’s regulatory and legislative sponsorship of the housing bubble; 10 to 15 million unskilled people entered the U.S. illegally, and the working and middle classes of America experienced a prolonged period of no increase in their income as measured by purchasing power. Iran and North Korea were allowed to get to the edge of nuclear military power and China was challenging U.S. interests everywhere.
It was the most incompetent period of presidential government in American history, exceeding the decade prior to the Civil War and even the Prohibition, isolationism, and the crash of 1929 which led to the Great Depression of the 1930s.
Distinctions became blurred between Republicans and Democrats, and the mediocre performance of the United States in the world and the failure of scores of millions of hard-working Americans to better their lot created the discontent in which Donald Trump was able to win control of the Republican Party by sweeping the primaries in 2016.
At the same time, the Democratic Marxist Left led by journeyman socialist Bernie Sanders came close to defeating Hillary Clinton for the Democratic nomination in 2016. Sanders was on the way to winning the nomination this year when the party elders picked Joe Biden out of the ditch where the Democratic primary voters had put him and installed him as the candidate.
Embracing the Chaos
Since Trump led a revolution against all the established factions of both parties, they joined hands to deny him any honeymoon. The first three years of his presidency were consumed by the almost certainly criminal Trump-Russian collusion hoax and the spurious impeachment attempt.
By late January, Trump’s success in almost eliminating unemployment, oil imports, and illegal immigration, and his revival of economic growth, revision of trade agreements, and elevation of nearly 200 constitutionalist judges, had made his election appear almost inevitable.
The Democrats naturally shrieked with glee at the prospect of shutting down the economy to fight the COVID-19 virus, and have continually demanded an economically self-strangling shutdown for an indefinite period. The pandemic has had the additional blessing of giving Democrats an excuse to hide their candidate in his basement, as Joe Biden is obviously not up to the very tough process that a successful presidential candidacy requires.
The pandemic’s cumulative impact on the voters, the precipitation of more than 15 million people into unemployment in the resulting shutdown, and the severe urban violence that assaulted every principal tenet of American patriotism following the death of George Floyd, all combined to produce the astounding anomaly that Joe Biden appears to lead Donald Trump in pre-election polls by as much as eight or ten percent.
Emboldened by what they took to be the long-anticipated dissolution of the Trump political phenomenon, the NeverTrumpers (Republicans who had never rallied to this president) have come snorting out of the undergrowth in full fraternization with the Biden Democrats. This adherence to Biden, whom they had reviled or at least disdained for decades, occurred as the Democrats themselves waffled ambiguously in the face of urban guerrillas smashing up many of America’s greatest cities, and as the flaccid and corrupt Democratic governments of those cities abased themselves before Black Lives Matter and Antifa.
Nothing But the Truth
As the leadership of Black Lives Matter is professedly Marxist and rejects the proposition that all lives matter, it is an overtly and violently anti-white, racist institution of the far Left. Antifa are violent, racist fellow-travelers. In failing to condemn these groups unequivocally, the Democratic Party will soon discover that it has been mortally infected by cohabitation with them.
President Trump spoke nothing but the truth at Mount Rushmore on Friday when he said “Our nation is witnessing a merciless campaign to wipe out our history, defame our heroes, erase our values, and indoctrinate our children. Angry mobs are trying to tear down statues of our founders, deface our most sacred memorials, and unleash a wave of violent crime in our cities. Many of these people have no idea why they are doing this but some know exactly what they are doing.”
It is inconceivable that the FBI—particularly with the opprobrium it has rightly attracted for its antics in the Russian collusion canard—is not close to being able to indict the leadership of Black Lives Matter and Antifa for sedition and incitement to a range of violent crimes, including murder and arson. It is also inconceivable that the country could fail to choose the president’s championship of patriotic continuity with strong emphasis on racial equality and the highest standards of civilized law enforcement over the nihilism and Americo-phobic mob rule of the post-George Floyd rioters whom the Democrats in their decadent insipidity have appeased.
The almost inexpressibly contemptible Democratic de Blasio regime in New York City has reduced the police budget by $1 billion as violent crime has more than doubled. The president’s reopening of the economy brought back nearly 5 million workers out of unemployment in June and this process should continue. The fatality rates of the pandemic have declined by nearly 90 percent from their high, with spread of the virus now concentrated amongst those who can best resist it. The subject of pathetic Democratic hand-wringing, the surge in new cases is effectively irrelevant other than that it increases national immunity to it.
Former conservatives and pillars of the pre-Trump Republican Party are now facing the point of no return. If they confirm their support for the almost leaderless Democratic Party now closely allied with pestilence and racist mayhem, they will never have any political influence in any party again. The time to choose between irreconcilable opposites is almost at hand.
– – –
Conrad Black has been one of Canada’s most prominent financiers for 40 years, and was one of the leading newspaper publishers in the world as owner of the British telegraph newspapers, the Fairfax newspapers in Australia, the Jerusalem Post, Chicago Sun-Times and scores of smaller newspapers in the U.S., and most of the daily newspapers in Canada. He is the author of authoritative biographies of Franklin D. Roosevelt and Richard Nixon, one-volume histories of the United States and Canada, and most recently of Donald J. Trump: A President Like No Other. He is a member of the British House of Lords as Lord Black of Crossharbour.
Photo “Donald Trump” by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. CC BY 2.0.