westernjournal--2020-08-08--Woman Booted from Plane for Wearing Vulgar Anti-Cop Mask

An anti-police activist says she was booted off an American Airlines flight because of her race and because the airline didn ’ t approve of the vulgar anti-police mask she wore .
The airline , however , said it was not just the mask , but the conduct of the person wearing it that led to her being asked to leave .
On July 29 , Arlinda Johns wanted to take Flight 1737 from Charlotte , North Carolina , to St. Louis , Missouri .
She wore a “ Black Lives Matter ” shirt and a face mask that read @ @ @ @ @ @ @ USA Today .
The colloquial meaning of the slogan is “ f— the police.
” Johns ended up telling her side of the story to WPLG-TV in Florida .
“ I think I got taken off the plane because I ’ m black , ” Johns said .
“ I am an abolitionist , ” she said .
“ I believe that we need to defund and abolish the police.
” Johns told the station that she was asked to cover the mask and complied .
A flight attendant later came by to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stood over and said , ‘ I better not see that other mask , ’ ” Johns said .
“ I said , ‘ Leave me alone , lady.
’ She stood there , she said , ‘ OK , I got you.
’ ” From her perspective , the flight attendant walked quickly to the front of the plane , which was taxiing down the runway .
The plane then returned to the gate , and Johns was removed .
Laura Masvidal , a spokesperson for American Airlines , gave USA Today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ The flight ] returned to the gate before departure after a customer refused to follow crew member instructions to remove or cover a face mask with offensive language , ” the statement read .
RELATED : With Church Services Restricted and Casinos Open , Worshipers Pack Gambling Floor To Praise God “ The customer was offered an alternate face covering , and although initially complying , it was reported that they later continued to display the offensive language .
After arriving at the gate , the customer was asked to deplane.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the customer to learn more about their experience and we will continue to look into this matter .
We are refunding the unused portion of the ticket.
” Johns , who uses the name Tray Rock on Facebook , posted a video of the final moments of her non-flight on Facebook .
She also tweeted about the incident , using a slightly different name and claiming the airline was “ gon na pay for this.
” Johns said she ended up renting a car and driving to Illinois , which had been her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is what American Airlines is doing , and this is what happened to me , ” she said .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

An anti-police activist says she was booted off an American Airlines flight because of her race and because the airline didn’t approve of the vulgar anti-police mask she wore.
The airline, however, said it was not just the mask, but the conduct of the person wearing it that led to her being asked to leave.
On July 29, Arlinda Johns wanted to take Flight 1737 from Charlotte, North Carolina, to St. Louis, Missouri.
She wore a “Black Lives Matter” shirt and a face mask that read “F— 12,” according to USA Today. The colloquial meaning of the slogan is “f— the police.”
Johns ended up telling her side of the story to WPLG-TV in Florida.
“I think I got taken off the plane because I’m black,” Johns said.
“I am an abolitionist,” she said. “I believe that we need to defund and abolish the police.”
Johns told the station that she was asked to cover the mask and complied. A flight attendant later came by to check.
“She came back and stood over and said, ‘I better not see that other mask,’” Johns said.
Should the airline have allowed this person to fly? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 4% (137 Votes) No: 96% (3215 Votes)
“I said, ‘Leave me alone, lady.’ She stood there, she said, ‘OK, I got you.’”
From her perspective, the flight attendant walked quickly to the front of the plane, which was taxiing down the runway.
The plane then returned to the gate, and Johns was removed.
Laura Masvidal, a spokesperson for American Airlines, gave USA Today its side of the story.
“[The flight] returned to the gate before departure after a customer refused to follow crew member instructions to remove or cover a face mask with offensive language,” the statement read.
“The customer was offered an alternate face covering, and although initially complying, it was reported that they later continued to display the offensive language. After arriving at the gate, the customer was asked to deplane.”
“Our team has reached out to the customer to learn more about their experience and we will continue to look into this matter. We are refunding the unused portion of the ticket.”
Johns, who uses the name Tray Rock on Facebook, posted a video of the final moments of her non-flight on Facebook.
She also tweeted about the incident, using a slightly different name and claiming the airline was “gonna pay for this.”
Our specialist will be in contact with you directly to speak with you about this. — americanair (@AmericanAir) July 30, 2020
Johns said she ended up renting a car and driving to Illinois, which had been her destination when she left Charlotte.
“This is what American Airlines is doing, and this is what happened to me,” she said.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--Trump’s Generosity: Donated $1 Million to Hurricane Victims Early in His Presidency

President Donald Trump ’ s decision to donate his salary to support causes within the federal government has been admirable , but also noteworthy is that just months after taking office , he donated $ 1 million of his own money to support hurricane victims .
It happened in August 2017 after Hurricane Harvey ravaged southeast Texas and Louisiana .
The total damage done by the storm was $ 125 billion , second only to Hurricane Katrina in 2005 , according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration .
Trump jumped into his new job as commander in chief and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Then-White House press secretary Sarah Sanders also confirmed at the time that the president cut checks to 12 organizations helping in the recovery effort , totaling $ 1 million , according to The Hill .
The American Red Cross and The Salvation Army each received $ 300,000 .
Additionally , Trump donated $ 100,000 to both Samaritan ’ s Purse and Reach Out America .
In an update issued in August 2019 , two years after the storm , the Red Cross reported it had disbursed $ 400 in immediate assistance payments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : With Church Services Restricted and Casinos Open , Worshipers Pack Gambling Floor To Praise God Over a five-month period following Harvey , it issued more than $ 230 million in relief money to victims .
Additionally , the Red Cross provided over 414,000 overnight shelter stays and 4.5 million meals and snacks .
In an email to The Western Journal , the nonprofit expressed gratitude to “ all of our donors who support our life-saving work.
” Similarly , Samaritan ’ s Purse deployed “ its entire fleet of Disaster Relief Units @ @ @ @ @ @ @ families recover from the storm , ” the Christian charity said in an email to The Western Journal .
Further , it mobilized 11,000 volunteers “ to help some 3,000 families with emergency repairs , debris removal , and mud-outs of homes with severe flood damage.
” Samaritan ’ s Purse has remained engaged in Texas in the years since the storm , “ helping more than 1,150 families get back into their homes through rebuild and repair programs as well as a manufactured home replacement program.
” Trump was of course one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Harvey relief efforts .
Some other well-known donors included NFL Texans defensive end J.J. Watt , who helped raise over $ 40 million ; Houston native billionaire Michael Dell and his wife Susan , who pledged $ 36 million through their charity to the Rebuild Texas Fund ; and actress Sandra Bullock , who donated $ 1 million personally to the Red Cross .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

President Donald Trump’s decision to donate his salary to support causes within the federal government has been admirable, but also noteworthy is that just months after taking office, he donated $1 million of his own money to support hurricane victims.
It happened in August 2017 after Hurricane Harvey ravaged southeast Texas and Louisiana.
The total damage done by the storm was $125 billion, second only to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Watch: Texas highway looks like ocean with churning waves after Hurricane #Harvey https://t.co/rRVSw0gjV4 pic.twitter.com/P39mORloNI — Channel 2 KWGN (@channel2kwgn) August 30, 2017
Trump jumped into his new job as commander in chief and made multiple visits to the storm-damaged region.
WATCH LIVE: Pres. Trump tours the damage and visits those impacted by Hurricane Harvey in Texas https://t.co/SFsm2tbj12 pic.twitter.com/o3Zjt2Xc8z — CBS News (@CBSNews) September 2, 2017
Then-White House press secretary Sarah Sanders also confirmed at the time that the president cut checks to 12 organizations helping in the recovery effort, totaling $1 million, according to The Hill.
Do you think Trump's donation inspired other Americans to give? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 95% (466 Votes) No: 5% (26 Votes)
The American Red Cross and The Salvation Army each received $300,000.
Additionally, Trump donated $100,000 to both Samaritan’s Purse and Reach Out America.
In an update issued in August 2019, two years after the storm, the Red Cross reported it had disbursed $400 in immediate assistance payments to more than 575,000 households.
Hurricane Harvey made landfall two years ago, but the Red Cross is still providing assistance to the people and communities affected: https://t.co/beEg7k0bD7 pic.twitter.com/iFHSpw3mXT — American Red Cross (@RedCross) August 19, 2019
Over a five-month period following Harvey, it issued more than $230 million in relief money to victims.
Additionally, the Red Cross provided over 414,000 overnight shelter stays and 4.5 million meals and snacks.
In an email to The Western Journal, the nonprofit expressed gratitude to “all of our donors who support our life-saving work.”
Similarly, Samaritan’s Purse deployed “its entire fleet of Disaster Relief Units to five response locations to help Texas families recover from the storm,” the Christian charity said in an email to The Western Journal.
Further, it mobilized 11,000 volunteers “to help some 3,000 families with emergency repairs, debris removal, and mud-outs of homes with severe flood damage.”
Samaritan’s Purse has remained engaged in Texas in the years since the storm, “helping more than 1,150 families get back into their homes through rebuild and repair programs as well as a manufactured home replacement program.”
The Sifuentes family lost their home in Hurricane Harvey. Last month, they moved into their new home as a part of our rebuild project in Texas. You can hear their story by listening to the latest episode of On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse here: https://t.co/mYByVfjQjj pic.twitter.com/4ogV4d4DCq — Samaritan’s Purse (@SamaritansPurse) January 29, 2020
Trump was of course one of many who donated to the Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.
Some other well-known donors included NFL Texans defensive end J.J. Watt, who helped raise over $40 million; Houston native billionaire Michael Dell and his wife Susan, who pledged $36 million through their charity to the Rebuild Texas Fund; and actress Sandra Bullock, who donated $1 million personally to the Red Cross.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--Joe Rogan Abandons California Over Lockdown, High Taxes: ‘This Place Is Going To Sink’

The world ’ s top podcasting star is abandoning California over the state ’ s high taxes , strict lockdowns and ongoing homelessness crisis .
Even worse for the Golden State , the move comes with a prediction of exodus and the West Coast behemoth ’ s eventual disastrous decline .
Joe Rogan discussed his move with Dr. Debra Soh on an episode of “ The Joe Rogan Experience ” released Wednesday .
According to the host , who said he ’ s moving to Texas “ at the end of the month , ” several of his friends are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m out of here , ” Rogan said .
“ This place is going to blow up .
This place is going to sink.
” The host ’ s problems with California mirror some of the same issues others have cited when fleeing the liberal utopia .
“ This place is crazy , ” he said .
“ The lockdown still exists , right ?
The homelessness is completely out of control .
The overpopulation is out of control.
” Even before the coronavirus pandemic began to bring California ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people were fleeing the sunny paradise that the state was poised to lose a congressional seat as a result of the 2020 census .
It ’ s not just regular citizens feeling the pain in California , but businesses too .
Some have pulled capital from California cities over problems like basic sanitation and the homeless population , dealing a damaging blow to areas already hurting financially .
The state ’ s solution is to levy higher taxes , chasing even more people away .
“ This state is bankrupt because they ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to become competent if you give them more money.
” RELATED : LA Mayor Goes Tyrannical , Will Cut Utilities to Homes Hosting Large Gatherings “ They ’ ve managed the money that they got very poorly , they already have high taxes .
There ’ s a 13.5 percent state income tax here in California , and the place is still f—ed up.
” Watch the full clip of Rogan savaging California leadership below : WARNING : The following video contains vulgar language that some viewers will find offensive .
Abandoning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a spur-of-the-moment decision for the podcasting legend .
Rogan threatened a move out of California as early as May .
If more people continue to abandon the Golden State , it won ’ t be long before California ’ s problems get even worse .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The world’s top podcasting star is abandoning California over the state’s high taxes, strict lockdowns and ongoing homelessness crisis.
Even worse for the Golden State, the move comes with a prediction of exodus and the West Coast behemoth’s eventual disastrous decline.
Joe Rogan discussed his move with Dr. Debra Soh on an episode of “The Joe Rogan Experience” released Wednesday.
According to the host, who said he’s moving to Texas “at the end of the month,” several of his friends are leaving the state as well.
“I’m out of here,” Rogan said.
“This place is going to blow up. This place is going to sink.”
The host’s problems with California mirror some of the same issues others have cited when fleeing the liberal utopia.
“This place is crazy,” he said. “The lockdown still exists, right? The homelessness is completely out of control. The overpopulation is out of control.”
Even before the coronavirus pandemic began to bring California’s problems to the surface, so many people were fleeing the sunny paradise that the state was poised to lose a congressional seat as a result of the 2020 census.
Will California continue to decline under Democratic Party leadership? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 100% (4250 Votes) No: 0% (16 Votes)
It’s not just regular citizens feeling the pain in California, but businesses too.
Some have pulled capital from California cities over problems like basic sanitation and the homeless population, dealing a damaging blow to areas already hurting financially.
The state’s solution is to levy higher taxes, chasing even more people away.
“They’re bankrupt,” Rogan said.
“This state is bankrupt because they’re incompetent. They’re not going to become competent if you give them more money.”
“They’ve managed the money that they got very poorly, they already have high taxes. There’s a 13.5 percent state income tax here in California, and the place is still f—ed up.”
Watch the full clip of Rogan savaging California leadership below:
WARNING: The following video contains vulgar language that some viewers will find offensive.
Abandoning the state doesn’t appear to be a spur-of-the-moment decision for the podcasting legend.
Rogan threatened a move out of California as early as May.
If more people continue to abandon the Golden State, it won’t be long before California’s problems get even worse.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--GOP Senator Catches COVID, So Media Points Out He Was Critical of Dem Governor

Michigan state Sen. Tom Barrett is considered a rising star in the Republican Party , according to The Detroit News .
The 39-year-old is a member of the Michigan Army National Guard and , as part of his screening process for his service , tested positive for COVID-19 .
“ Thankfully I do not have any significant symptoms at this time , and I will be self-isolating according to medical guidelines , ” said Barrett , who tested positive July 31 and was notified on Sunday .
“ I have done my best to make contact with those I have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so that they may also seek medical advice .
“ I look forward to resuming my normal work schedule as quickly as possible.
” Barrett was the third Michigan state legislator to test positive for COVID-19 , after Democratic state Reps. Tyrone Carter and Karen Whitsett .
He has a wife and three children .
Anyway , these are the basic details of the situation .
I ’ ve left out one little detail that almost certainly had nothing to do with Barrett coming down with COVID-19 .
Guess what made it into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Barrett — guardsman , husband , father , legislator — is also known for his opposition to the high priestess of the lockdowns , Michigan Gov .
Gretchen Whitmer .
The first paragraph of The Detroit News story mentioned that Barrett had been a “ vocal critic of Gov .
Gretchen Whitmer ’ s handling of COVID-19.
” The next paragraph pointed out that he “ sponsored a bill in April to repeal one of the two state laws that allow the governor to declare emergencies.
” The other evidence that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this : “ Barrett , a 39-year-old , first-term Republican senator , has supported the Unlock Michigan petition drive to limit the emergency powers of Whitmer and future governors .
He held a petition signing event for the campaign on July 18.
” So his opposition to Whitmer ’ s policies had exactly zero connection to him contracting COVID-19 , nearest I could tell .
This wasn ’ t some guy who decided to flout Whitmer ’ s regulations by hosting a 200-person party at his lake house and ended up catching the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Whitmer on several fronts — and failed .
Whitmer has mostly had her way with coronavirus policy in Michigan .
RELATED : ‘ Evangelicals for Trump ’ Defy Nevada Church Restrictions by Worshiping in Casino It ’ d be just as easy to attribute his diagnosis to her .
And then you have the fact that the first two COVID-19 cases in the Michigan state legislature were Democrats .
The Detroit News could have just as easily written a story saying , “ Rep .
Tyrone Carter , supporter of Gretchen Whitmer tests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that headline I just proposed make any sense ?
Not a bit .
You may begin to see the point — the only link between Barrett ’ s COVID-19 diagnosis and Whitmer is the assumption that Whitmer ’ s lockdowns could have theoretically prevented his case of COVID-19 .
Twitter was typically life-affirming in this situation : He probably would , actually .
No one knows how Barrett got COVID-19 .
What we know is that he got it under Whitmer ’ s rules .
Why is no one blaming her ?
Because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supposed to accept Whitmer is the goddess of the state of Michigan .
She was controlling the coronavirus pandemic perfectly , having thoughtfully implemented one of the most extensive lockdowns in the country and banned Michigan residents from buying garden supplies in big-box stores — but then the serpent of freedom convinced Barrett to eat from the tree of lockdown freedom .
And , just like Adam and Eve , the original sin of challenging the eternal wisdom of Gov .
Whitmer came upon him : COVID-19 .
He deserved it .
Shame @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet .
Oh , and by the by , Barrett was apparently following all of the rules .
“ He is unsure of the date he contracted the virus ; however , Sen. Barrett has indicated that he was practicing social distancing , had a mask on when not inside his office and sanitized regularly , ” read a notice from the Senate Business Office .
But gosh — how could he have gotten the disease if he was following those rules ?
And how did those two Democrats who presumably supported Whitmer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s almost as if this is an entirely apolitical issue .
State Sen. Barrett got the coronavirus .
So will a lot of people before this is over .
The party of the person who got it matters not — and it certainly doesn ’ t discriminate based on affiliation .
The manner in which The Detroit News covered this story was beyond uncalled for .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Michigan state Sen. Tom Barrett is considered a rising star in the Republican Party, according to The Detroit News.
The 39-year-old is a member of the Michigan Army National Guard and, as part of his screening process for his service, tested positive for COVID-19.
“Thankfully I do not have any significant symptoms at this time, and I will be self-isolating according to medical guidelines,” said Barrett, who tested positive July 31 and was notified on Sunday.
“I have done my best to make contact with those I have been around in the past couple weeks so that they may also seek medical advice.
“I look forward to resuming my normal work schedule as quickly as possible.”
Barrett was the third Michigan state legislator to test positive for COVID-19, after Democratic state Reps. Tyrone Carter and Karen Whitsett. He has a wife and three children.
Anyway, these are the basic details of the situation. I’ve left out one little detail that almost certainly had nothing to do with Barrett coming down with COVID-19.
Guess what made it into The Detroit News’ headline?
“Republican Michigan senator critical of Gretchen Whitmer tests positive for COVID-19.”
Do you think it's time for all COVID-related lockdowns to end? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 96% (841 Votes) No: 4% (37 Votes)
Yes, Barrett — guardsman, husband, father, legislator — is also known for his opposition to the high priestess of the lockdowns, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
The first paragraph of The Detroit News story mentioned that Barrett had been a “vocal critic of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s handling of COVID-19.” The next paragraph pointed out that he “sponsored a bill in April to repeal one of the two state laws that allow the governor to declare emergencies.”
The other evidence that he was some sort of hardcore anti-Whitmerite was this: “Barrett, a 39-year-old, first-term Republican senator, has supported the Unlock Michigan petition drive to limit the emergency powers of Whitmer and future governors. He held a petition signing event for the campaign on July 18.”
So his opposition to Whitmer’s policies had exactly zero connection to him contracting COVID-19, nearest I could tell. This wasn’t some guy who decided to flout Whitmer’s regulations by hosting a 200-person party at his lake house and ended up catching the coronavirus through his stupidity.
He opposed Whitmer on several fronts — and failed. Whitmer has mostly had her way with coronavirus policy in Michigan.
It’d be just as easy to attribute his diagnosis to her. And then you have the fact that the first two COVID-19 cases in the Michigan state legislature were Democrats. The Detroit News could have just as easily written a story saying, “Rep. Tyrone Carter, supporter of Gretchen Whitmer tests positive for COVID-19.”
Now, would that headline I just proposed make any sense? Not a bit. You may begin to see the point — the only link between Barrett’s COVID-19 diagnosis and Whitmer is the assumption that Whitmer’s lockdowns could have theoretically prevented his case of COVID-19.
Twitter was typically life-affirming in this situation:
#MAGA KARMA FOR SICK REPUBLICAN Sen. #TomBarrett, of #Michigan, has been diagnosed with COVID-19. He was one of many conservatives who waged war against the Michigan governor for instituting a lockdown #MOG#Biden2020 for our #HealthCare
https://t.co/yb58zkoaqR — Michael O’Grady (@mog7546) August 3, 2020
Michigan State GOPer Tom Barrett opposed Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s extended lockdown measures and fought to try limiting her emergency powers. He just tested positive for COVID-19 and potentially exposed other state lawmakers and Capitol officials in the process. Pro-death. — Ricky Davila (@TheRickyDavila) August 3, 2020
Definition of Covidiot Michigan state Sen. Tom Barrett (R), who has been outspoken in opposition to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s (D) use of emergency powers during the coronavirus pandemic, has tested positive for he coronavirus, the Detroit News reports. — stuart (@stuhunter1) August 3, 2020
Senator Tom Barrett would you still like to limit the emergency powers Governor Gretchen Whitmer has? https://t.co/WX0LRKqVWj — tee-pee (@teepee39721301) August 3, 2020
He probably would, actually. No one knows how Barrett got COVID-19. What we know is that he got it under Whitmer’s rules. Why is no one blaming her?
Because, apparently, we’re all supposed to accept Whitmer is the goddess of the state of Michigan. She was controlling the coronavirus pandemic perfectly, having thoughtfully implemented one of the most extensive lockdowns in the country and banned Michigan residents from buying garden supplies in big-box stores — but then the serpent of freedom convinced Barrett to eat from the tree of lockdown freedom.
And, just like Adam and Eve, the original sin of challenging the eternal wisdom of Gov. Whitmer came upon him: COVID-19. He deserved it. Shame he doesn’t have any symptoms yet.
Oh, and by the by, Barrett was apparently following all of the rules.
“He is unsure of the date he contracted the virus; however, Sen. Barrett has indicated that he was practicing social distancing, had a mask on when not inside his office and sanitized regularly,” read a notice from the Senate Business Office.
But gosh — how could he have gotten the disease if he was following those rules? And how did those two Democrats who presumably supported Whitmer get it, too? It’s almost as if this is an entirely apolitical issue.
State Sen. Barrett got the coronavirus. So will a lot of people before this is over.
The party of the person who got it matters not — and it certainly doesn’t discriminate based on affiliation. The manner in which The Detroit News covered this story was beyond uncalled for.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--Michigan Mail-In Voting Disaster Casts Even More Doubt on November Election

The presidential election is right around the corner , and many voters from a variety of states are participating in the process of mail-in voting — opposed to in-person voting — to limit the spread of the coronavirus .
Mail-in voting may appear to be a safe alternative to voters on the surface , but when considering how things turned out for Michigan ’ s primary on Tuesday , it may not be the best option after all .
“ Mail problems marred the delivery of absentee ballots in Michigan in the run-up to Tuesday ’ s primary in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up fears of political pressure on the U.S .
Postal Service just three months before Nov. 3 , ” The Washington Post reported .
Michigan has seen some of the most stringent stay-at-home orders in the country , thanks to Democratic Gov .
Gretchen Whitmer .
It ’ s no wonder Michiganders felt it was best to vote via mail .
As polls opened , however , many voters reported that they were missing absentee ballots .
Additionally , there was fear of delayed delivery by the U.S .
Postal Service .
Therefore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their ballots into physical dropboxes within a specific timeframe .
In other words , in order for Michiganders to avoid the spread of COVID-19 , they chose to vote by absentee mail-in ballots .
But by delivering their ballots to physical dropboxes , they had to show up somewhere in person anyway .
Essentially , their mail-in system did not keep them home when all was said and done .
The Post rightly noted that these difficulties experienced in the Michigan primaries offer a “ potential warning ahead of the general election.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should carry extra heft , given it ’ s galvanizing Democratic voters and Republican voters alike .
According to The Post , at least 77 percent of U.S. voters will be able to vote through the mail in the fall election .
And with millions expected to vote , the outcome of mail-in voting could be a disaster .
Specifically , the disaster could involve missing ballots , delayed shipment or lack of security over the physical dropboxes .
The more risk there is to the integrity of states ’ mail-in voting , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s not a feasible option .
President Donald Trump recently tweeted that he believes November ’ s election will be the “ most rigged ” in the history of our nation should mail-in voting be widely implemented .
RELATED : Larry the Cable Guy Resurrects Nadler 's Old Statement To Destroy Mail-In Ballot Claims “ Because of MAIL-IN BALLOTS , 2020 will be the most RIGGED Election in our nations history – unless this stupidity is ended , ” Trump tweeted .
“ We voted during World War One & World War @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are using Covid in order to cheat by using Mail-Ins !
” Whether or not the 2020 election will actually be “ rigged ” is beside the point .
If the Michigan primary reflects what awaits in November , Americans will have little reason to trust the results of the presidential election .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The presidential election is right around the corner, and many voters from a variety of states are participating in the process of mail-in voting — opposed to in-person voting — to limit the spread of the coronavirus.
Mail-in voting may appear to be a safe alternative to voters on the surface, but when considering how things turned out for Michigan’s primary on Tuesday, it may not be the best option after all.
“Mail problems marred the delivery of absentee ballots in Michigan in the run-up to Tuesday’s primary in the state, testing election administrators and ramping up fears of political pressure on the U.S. Postal Service just three months before Nov. 3,” The Washington Post reported.
Michigan has seen some of the most stringent stay-at-home orders in the country, thanks to Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. It’s no wonder Michiganders felt it was best to vote via mail.
As polls opened, however, many voters reported that they were missing absentee ballots.
Additionally, there was fear of delayed delivery by the U.S. Postal Service. Therefore, election officials told voters to submit their ballots into physical dropboxes within a specific timeframe.
In other words, in order for Michiganders to avoid the spread of COVID-19, they chose to vote by absentee mail-in ballots. But by delivering their ballots to physical dropboxes, they had to show up somewhere in person anyway.
Essentially, their mail-in system did not keep them home when all was said and done.
The Post rightly noted that these difficulties experienced in the Michigan primaries offer a “potential warning ahead of the general election.”
Do you think that widespread vote-by-mail is a bad idea? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 99% (2354 Votes) No: 1% (18 Votes)
And any concerns over this particular election should carry extra heft, given it’s galvanizing Democratic voters and Republican voters alike.
According to The Post, at least 77 percent of U.S. voters will be able to vote through the mail in the fall election. And with millions expected to vote, the outcome of mail-in voting could be a disaster.
Specifically, the disaster could involve missing ballots, delayed shipment or lack of security over the physical dropboxes.
The more risk there is to the integrity of states’ mail-in voting, the more America must realize that it’s not a feasible option.
President Donald Trump recently tweeted that he believes November’s election will be the “most rigged” in the history of our nation should mail-in voting be widely implemented.
Because of MAIL-IN BALLOTS, 2020 will be the most RIGGED Election in our nations history – unless this stupidity is ended. We voted during World War One & World War Two with no problem, but now they are using Covid in order to cheat by using Mail-Ins! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 22, 2020
“Because of MAIL-IN BALLOTS, 2020 will be the most RIGGED Election in our nations history – unless this stupidity is ended,” Trump tweeted. “We voted during World War One & World War Two with no problem, but now they are using Covid in order to cheat by using Mail-Ins!”
Whether or not the 2020 election will actually be “rigged” is beside the point.
If the Michigan primary reflects what awaits in November, Americans will have little reason to trust the results of the presidential election.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--Joe Arpaio’s 2nd Comeback Bid Ends in Defeat

This political campaign was likely the last for Joe Arpaio , the former six-term sheriff of metro Phoenix known for leading immigration crackdowns .
The 88-year-old lawman narrowly lost a race to win back his old job , his second failed comeback bid four years after getting voted out of office .
Arpaio was edged out Friday in the Republican primary by his former second-in-command , Jerry Sheridan .
Still facing criticism over his 2017 criminal conviction — which President Donald Trump pardoned — many didn ’ t know he was running until they saw his name on the ballot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tired of me , and they wanted somebody else , ” Arpaio said .
“ And that ’ s the way it went.
” A retired federal drug enforcement agent , Arpaio was elected sheriff in 1992 after his predecessor was criticized for mishandling an investigation into the killings of nine people at a Buddhist temple .
Early in his 24-year tenure , Arpaio scored big points with voters by enacting tough jail policies .
He took up immigration enforcement in 2005 as some Republican lawmakers called for a stricter approach .
At @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police bosses in the U.S. were content to let federal authorities handle that work .
Arpaio led 20 large-scale traffic patrols and more than 80 business raids to bust illegal immigrants working in the United States without permission .
Critics accused him of irresponsibly spending taxpayer money on policies that were bound to flop .
His defenders said he was the only local police boss who bothered to confront illegal immigration .
Stan Barnes , a political consultant in Phoenix and former Republican state lawmaker , said Arpaio reflected for many years what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted from a sheriff — immigration crackdowns and tough jails .
Arpaio ’ s political fortunes started to decline in 2013 when his officers were found by a judge to have racially profiled Latinos in immigration patrols .
Arpaio was eventually convicted of criminal contempt of court for disobeying a court order in the profiling case , though he was later spared a possible jail sentence by Trump ’ s pardon .
As voter frustration mounted over his legal troubles , Arpaio lost his bid for a seventh term by nearly 13 percentage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Paul Penzone .
Arpaio ’ s first comeback bid ended badly when he placed third in the 2018 Republican primary for U.S. Senate , losing both Maricopa County and his adopted hometown of Fountain Hills .
His campaign this year to win back the sheriff ’ s office was fraught with difficulty .
Arpaio , once a master at garnering publicity , couldn ’ t get much news coverage .
His $ 1.2 million in contributions led all other sheriff ’ s candidates , but it was a steep drop from the $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He also faced questions about his age and health .
“ It may be my last run for office , but I ’ m going to be active , ” Arpaio said , noting he has a new book coming out in a few weeks .
“ But if you think I am going home to stare at the mountain , that ain ’ t gon na happen .
Never gon na happen.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

This political campaign was likely the last for Joe Arpaio, the former six-term sheriff of metro Phoenix known for leading immigration crackdowns.
The 88-year-old lawman narrowly lost a race to win back his old job, his second failed comeback bid four years after getting voted out of office.
Arpaio was edged out Friday in the Republican primary by his former second-in-command, Jerry Sheridan.
Still facing criticism over his 2017 criminal conviction — which President Donald Trump pardoned — many didn’t know he was running until they saw his name on the ballot.
“I think some people were tired of me, and they wanted somebody else,” Arpaio said. “And that’s the way it went.”
A retired federal drug enforcement agent, Arpaio was elected sheriff in 1992 after his predecessor was criticized for mishandling an investigation into the killings of nine people at a Buddhist temple.
Early in his 24-year tenure, Arpaio scored big points with voters by enacting tough jail policies.
He took up immigration enforcement in 2005 as some Republican lawmakers called for a stricter approach. At the time, almost all other local police bosses in the U.S. were content to let federal authorities handle that work.
Arpaio led 20 large-scale traffic patrols and more than 80 business raids to bust illegal immigrants working in the United States without permission.
Do you support Arpaio? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 95% (101 Votes) No: 5% (5 Votes)
Critics accused him of irresponsibly spending taxpayer money on policies that were bound to flop.
His defenders said he was the only local police boss who bothered to confront illegal immigration.
Stan Barnes, a political consultant in Phoenix and former Republican state lawmaker, said Arpaio reflected for many years what a majority of voters in metro Phoenix wanted from a sheriff — immigration crackdowns and tough jails.
Arpaio’s political fortunes started to decline in 2013 when his officers were found by a judge to have racially profiled Latinos in immigration patrols.
Arpaio was eventually convicted of criminal contempt of court for disobeying a court order in the profiling case, though he was later spared a possible jail sentence by Trump’s pardon.
As voter frustration mounted over his legal troubles, Arpaio lost his bid for a seventh term by nearly 13 percentage points to retired Phoenix police Sgt. Paul Penzone.
Arpaio’s first comeback bid ended badly when he placed third in the 2018 Republican primary for U.S. Senate, losing both Maricopa County and his adopted hometown of Fountain Hills.
His campaign this year to win back the sheriff’s office was fraught with difficulty.
Arpaio, once a master at garnering publicity, couldn’t get much news coverage. His $1.2 million in contributions led all other sheriff’s candidates, but it was a steep drop from the $12 million he raised in 2016.
He also faced questions about his age and health.
“It may be my last run for office, but I’m going to be active,” Arpaio said, noting he has a new book coming out in a few weeks.
“But if you think I am going home to stare at the mountain, that ain’t gonna happen. Never gonna happen.”
[jwplayer OSroQOo2]
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--Odd News: Residents Help Police Lasso Runaway Emu After Short Chase

It ’ s not every day that you see a giant bird out for a stroll in Arizona .
Lost dogs and cats , coyotes , javelina and bobcats , sure — but an emu ?
That ’ s what one man spotted early Tuesday morning as he was out for a walk in Scottsdale : one of the largest birds on the planet , an exotic anomaly , casually going for a stroll .
“ During my 6 am daily walk this morning I ‘ bumped ’ into this Emu , both as I headed West and East within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Facebook .
“ Did the appropriate HOA reporting…and later learned , via friends and the media , that the Scottsdale Police lassoed it on the golf course and is now seeking the rightful owner .
“ Not the normal morning walk , but so pleased the Emu is now safe and protected .
Stay safe , everyone !
!
!
” Police tracked down the emu near a Scottsdale golf course .
According to KSAZ-TV , after a short chase , the officers , using food as a bribe , were able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the station with the help of some locals .
The emu was rather appropriately near Roadrunner Drive .
“ Anyone missing their Emu ?
” the Scottsdale Police Department posted .
“ Officers from our Foothills District ( D4 ) found and captured an Emu this morning walking in the area of Legend Trail Parkway and Roadrunner Dr. “ Please call our non-emergency number at 480-312-5000 if you have lost your bird or you know where this animal belongs.
” You might think that this odd occurrence is a rarity , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an emu has been found wandering in Arizona .
In May , the Arizona DOT shared photos of an emu picking its way along a wash near Happy Valley in the Phoenix area .
RELATED : Scientists Are One Step Closer To Detecting Alzheimer 's Disease And last year , police had a unique Mother ’ s Day as they located and escorted yet another of the giant birds near Scottsdale .
According to AZ Central , police were told there was “ a large bird loose in the area.
” The emu @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the interaction or its capture and mostly behaved as an officer walked it back to the enclosure it had escaped from .
While the fate of the bird found Tuesday has not yet been shared , hopefully it will find its way home with all the media coverage it has been getting .
And if you live in Arizona , keep your eyes open — you might just spot one of these guys .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

It’s not every day that you see a giant bird out for a stroll in Arizona. Lost dogs and cats, coyotes, javelina and bobcats, sure — but an emu?
That’s what one man spotted early Tuesday morning as he was out for a walk in Scottsdale: one of the largest birds on the planet, an exotic anomaly, casually going for a stroll.
“During my 6 am daily walk this morning I ‘bumped’ into this Emu, both as I headed West and East within Legend Trail,” Steve Woodworth shared on Facebook.
“Did the appropriate HOA reporting…and later learned, via friends and the media, that the Scottsdale Police lassoed it on the golf course and is now seeking the rightful owner.
“Not the normal morning walk, but so pleased the Emu is now safe and protected. Stay safe, everyone!!!”
Police tracked down the emu near a Scottsdale golf course. According to KSAZ-TV, after a short chase, the officers, using food as a bribe, were able to lasso it and take it back to the station with the help of some locals. The emu was rather appropriately near Roadrunner Drive.
“Anyone missing their Emu?” the Scottsdale Police Department posted. “Officers from our Foothills District (D4) found and captured an Emu this morning walking in the area of Legend Trail Parkway and Roadrunner Dr.
“Please call our non-emergency number at 480-312-5000 if you have lost your bird or you know where this animal belongs.”
You might think that this odd occurrence is a rarity, but this isn’t the first time an emu has been found wandering in Arizona.
In May, the Arizona DOT shared photos of an emu picking its way along a wash near Happy Valley in the Phoenix area.
Always wanted to go to Australia, but it hasn’t happened yet? Well, never fear, you can get a taste of down under right now with these shots of an emu wandering along L-303 southbound at Happy Valley! pic.twitter.com/OFTqAwH2to — Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) May 23, 2020
And last year, police had a unique Mother’s Day as they located and escorted yet another of the giant birds near Scottsdale. According to AZ Central, police were told there was “a large bird loose in the area.”
The emu didn’t seem too bothered by the interaction or its capture and mostly behaved as an officer walked it back to the enclosure it had escaped from.
While the fate of the bird found Tuesday has not yet been shared, hopefully it will find its way home with all the media coverage it has been getting. And if you live in Arizona, keep your eyes open — you might just spot one of these guys.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--Kitten Given Splints on Back Legs Made from Tongue Depressors Thanks to Clever Rescuers

“ Kitten Season ” is something a special band of selfless people knows very well .
Around the nation , from spring to fall , volunteers and cat lovers buckle down for the inevitable tide of kittens that starts pouring in to rescues and shelters .
Everyone knows that a mother cat is the best choice to care for kittens , but many times people stumble across a litter and think the kittens have been abandoned when they haven ’ t .
The well-meaning discoverers often “ rescue ” the babies when they don ’ t actually need rescuing .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ or “ kitnapping , ” and it sadly results in many dead kittens .
“ Since 2018 , more than 10,000 vulnerable kittens have entered the Animal Services Center , ” El Paso , Texas , Animal Services shared on its website .
“ Of these thousands , more than 1,300 died .
This tragic loss of life is largely due to kittens failing to thrive , a result of not being provided full immunity and care that a mother cat offers.
” But there are cases where the kittens truly do need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if experienced volunteers weren ’ t at the ready to take them in .
One of those kittens is a little white fuzzball named Zion .
He came to the Arizona Humane Society at just 5 days old .
Newborn kittens are not as coordinated as lithe , full-grown cats — but something more than kitten clumsiness was going on with Zion .
His back legs weren ’ t functioning quite right .
“ In addition to needing round-the-clock care in AHS ’ Bottle Baby Kitten ICU to survive without his mother , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feet and unable to use his legs normally , ” the AHS posted on Facebook .
Animals of all sorts can be born with weak limbs that are a result of cramped quarters in utero or some sort of deficiency or deformity .
Sometimes these issues can be resolved with physical therapy and splints , and other times it requires more intense correction .
Thankfully for Zion , his caregivers had an idea — using what they had on hand , they were able to help get him back on his feet .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff and volunteers of this 24-hour intensive care unit , Zion especially tugged at the staff ’ s heartstrings who were determined to try to help him walk again , ” the AHS ’ post continued .
“ Thanks to innovative thinking from the veterinary technician team , they fashioned together tiny splints out of a tongue depressor , gauze , medical wrap bandages and tape in hopes of giving him a chance to live a normal life.
” “ After a little more than a week with his special splints , continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ began using his back legs normally and was able to rejoin the rest of his littermates in an AHS Foster Hero home !
” Zion , now a healthy and playful 8-week-old , does the things every normal kitten does .
He plays with other kittens , likes to take naps with his foster family and is hoping to find a special family of his own very soon .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

“Kitten Season” is something a special band of selfless people knows very well. Around the nation, from spring to fall, volunteers and cat lovers buckle down for the inevitable tide of kittens that starts pouring in to rescues and shelters.
Everyone knows that a mother cat is the best choice to care for kittens, but many times people stumble across a litter and think the kittens have been abandoned when they haven’t. The well-meaning discoverers often “rescue” the babies when they don’t actually need rescuing.
This phenomenon has been dubbed kitten kidnapping or “kitnapping,” and it sadly results in many dead kittens.
“Since 2018, more than 10,000 vulnerable kittens have entered the Animal Services Center,” El Paso, Texas, Animal Services shared on its website. “Of these thousands, more than 1,300 died. This tragic loss of life is largely due to kittens failing to thrive, a result of not being provided full immunity and care that a mother cat offers.”
But there are cases where the kittens truly do need help and probably wouldn’t thrive if experienced volunteers weren’t at the ready to take them in.
One of those kittens is a little white fuzzball named Zion. He came to the Arizona Humane Society at just 5 days old.
Newborn kittens are not as coordinated as lithe, full-grown cats — but something more than kitten clumsiness was going on with Zion. His back legs weren’t functioning quite right.
“In addition to needing round-the-clock care in AHS’ Bottle Baby Kitten ICU to survive without his mother, he was badly knuckling on his back feet and unable to use his legs normally,” the AHS posted on Facebook.
Animals of all sorts can be born with weak limbs that are a result of cramped quarters in utero or some sort of deficiency or deformity. Sometimes these issues can be resolved with physical therapy and splints, and other times it requires more intense correction.
Thankfully for Zion, his caregivers had an idea — using what they had on hand, they were able to help get him back on his feet.
“While receiving care from the dedicated staff and volunteers of this 24-hour intensive care unit, Zion especially tugged at the staff’s heartstrings who were determined to try to help him walk again,” the AHS’ post continued.
“Thanks to innovative thinking from the veterinary technician team, they fashioned together tiny splints out of a tongue depressor, gauze, medical wrap bandages and tape in hopes of giving him a chance to live a normal life.”
“After a little more than a week with his special splints, continued care and lots of love, Zion began using his back legs normally and was able to rejoin the rest of his littermates in an AHS Foster Hero home!”
Zion, now a healthy and playful 8-week-old, does the things every normal kitten does. He plays with other kittens, likes to take naps with his foster family and is hoping to find a special family of his own very soon.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--American Flag Can Be Seen Flying High During 1 Man’s Daily Runs

Mark Palmieri from Vernon Hills , Illinois , is like many people in that he loves to get outside and exercise — especially during quarantine .
He ’ s a regular at the Lake County Forest Preserves , where he both runs several miles and communes with nature .
“ We are blessed to have such amazing preserves so close to our homes , ” the 36-year-old told the Arlington Heights-based Daily Herald .
“ I have found a bond with two sandhill cranes that take their morning walk around the same time each day.
” Palmieri is unlike many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at him makes the difference immediately clear : He runs every day with a giant U.S. flag over his shoulder .
It first started when he was training for an event , but then he realized it stood for so much more .
He told the Daily Herald “ it has become something bigger than me.
” “ When people see me running with the flag , it ’ s generally viewed as a beacon of hope , ” he said .
The meaning goes deeper than patriotism .
Palmieri helped start a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a group that offers support for veterans .
Though he has never served in the military himself , Palmieri works with veterans , and veteran suicide is an issue that is near and dear to his heart .
“ I never served but I ’ m running for those that did , ” Palmieri told KTRK-TV .
“ You hear a lot of ‘ thank you for your service , ’ and I have to very quickly identify that I ’ ve never served , ” he added .
“ And that ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very high regard , and it ’ s become now a conversation point around veteran suicide awareness in honoring our fallen.
” Three Rangers Foundation Executive Director Michael Hall , a former U.S. Army command sergeant major , highlighted how important Palmieri ’ s work it .
“ Having the awareness out there for people to understand that the resources are needed to try to figure it out is important , ” he said .
“ It ’ s got to be kept top of mind.
” RELATED : Video : UPS Driver @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American Flag Tangled in Wind “ And it ’ s people like Mark who didn ’ t serve … who haven ’ t had the shared experience that we had , that are willing to go out and bring to light such an important issue … those are really , really special people , ” he added .
Some people who spot Palmieri with the flag waving over his shoulder honk or wave back .
Some aren ’ t quite so thrilled by the display , but that doesn ’ t bother him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carry a large flag and I have a fellow American , regardless of color , race , creed , that disagrees with me , although I may disagree with them , I love it , ” he explained .
“ I respect it .
I think it ’ s important .
Maybe it starts a conversation where we can have a discourse and talk.
” “ I hope more people buy into it and it ’ s viewed as a positive thing.
” Overall , Palmieri has seen his work bring people joy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , even in hard times .
“ There has been so much fear and loneliness since the virus hit , ” he told the Daily Herald .
“ When people see me on the trails with the flag , it ’ s a game-changer.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Mark Palmieri from Vernon Hills, Illinois, is like many people in that he loves to get outside and exercise — especially during quarantine.
He’s a regular at the Lake County Forest Preserves, where he both runs several miles and communes with nature.
“We are blessed to have such amazing preserves so close to our homes,” the 36-year-old told the Arlington Heights-based Daily Herald. “I have found a bond with two sandhill cranes that take their morning walk around the same time each day.”
Palmieri is unlike many others, though, and one look at him makes the difference immediately clear: He runs every day with a giant U.S. flag over his shoulder.
It first started when he was training for an event, but then he realized it stood for so much more. He told the Daily Herald “it has become something bigger than me.”
“When people see me running with the flag, it’s generally viewed as a beacon of hope,” he said.
The meaning goes deeper than patriotism. Palmieri helped start a nonprofit called the Three Rangers Foundation, a group that offers support for veterans.
Though he has never served in the military himself, Palmieri works with veterans, and veteran suicide is an issue that is near and dear to his heart.
“I never served but I’m running for those that did,” Palmieri told KTRK-TV.
“You hear a lot of ‘thank you for your service,’ and I have to very quickly identify that I’ve never served,” he added. “And that’s something that I hold in a very high regard, and it’s become now a conversation point around veteran suicide awareness in honoring our fallen.”
Three Rangers Foundation Executive Director Michael Hall, a former U.S. Army command sergeant major, highlighted how important Palmieri’s work it.
“Having the awareness out there for people to understand that the resources are needed to try to figure it out is important,” he said. “It’s got to be kept top of mind.”
“And it’s people like Mark who didn’t serve … who haven’t had the shared experience that we had, that are willing to go out and bring to light such an important issue … those are really, really special people,” he added.
Some people who spot Palmieri with the flag waving over his shoulder honk or wave back. Some aren’t quite so thrilled by the display, but that doesn’t bother him.
“So if I choose to carry a large flag and I have a fellow American, regardless of color, race, creed, that disagrees with me, although I may disagree with them, I love it,” he explained. “I respect it. I think it’s important. Maybe it starts a conversation where we can have a discourse and talk.”
“I hope more people buy into it and it’s viewed as a positive thing.”
Overall, Palmieri has seen his work bring people joy and hopes it helps them press on, even in hard times.
“There has been so much fear and loneliness since the virus hit,” he told the Daily Herald. “When people see me on the trails with the flag, it’s a game-changer.”
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--Watch: 90-Year-Old Husband Cries Tears of Joy When Wife Returns from Hospital

It ’ s easy to feel beaten down or depressed when we look at current events in the world .
There are people sick , nations hurting and deep unrest .
And if that were all there was , it would be hard to press on .
But if we look carefully , even in the darkest of times , there is good at work .
And this story is a heartwarming example of that .
The couple in question has been married for seven decades — longer than most of us have been alive .
Loretta Bowen , 90 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to remove a mass from her colon .
Thankfully , her husband , 90-year-old David Bowen , was more prepared than many because he is a prayer warrior and has been for years .
And what ’ s more , her extended family knows the power of prayer , so she was in the best hands possible .
Granddaughter Krista Kellum documented what happened next because it was so miraculous .
“ I know this is long , but it is incredible and needs to be shared , ” she shared on July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ married for over 70 years , and their love continues to make me cry .
“ “ A few weeks ago my Grandma was told there was a mass in her colon , which was confirmed by two different scans , a failed colonoscopy ( because the mass was in the way ) and a dye test.
” “ Immediately , we all began to pray .
If you know my granddad , you know that he is a praying man .
Throughout my entire life , he would go every single morning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Their prayers were answered in a way that a chosen few have experienced , and the rest of us can only hope for .
“ On the day of my grandma ’ s surgery , they started with a laparoscopy , ” Kellum said .
“ BUT , they didn ’ t see anything .
So , they decided to go into her colon and look , and the mass was totally gone !
” “ They kept my grandma in the hospital for a few days , and this video is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ husband .
Brb got ta go cry and thank Jesus forever.
” The video shows Loretta being chauffered to their home in Jesup , Georgia .
As she opens the door to get out , David yells , “ Hey girl !
” RELATED : 102-Year-Old Survived 1918 Flu , Cancer and Now COVID-19 - Here 's Her Advice “ Hey , baby !
… Your boss has come home !
” Loretta says , and soon they ’ re in each other ’ s arms .
David tears up , happy to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reason I wanted this recorded is because my grandparents have been married for such a long time and their love is still just as strong , ” Kellum told ABC News .
“ And they ’ re still , as you see in the video , so bonded and strong.
” “ They were separated for such a long time while she was in the hospital and he was just beside himself not being able to see her because of the coronavirus , ” she explained .
“ I wanted them to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it forever just because it was such a precious moment seeing them reunited.
” Thanks to Kellum , we ’ ve been given a brief glimpse into a life of love and faith , something we could all use a little more of right now .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

It’s easy to feel beaten down or depressed when we look at current events in the world. There are people sick, nations hurting and deep unrest. And if that were all there was, it would be hard to press on.
But if we look carefully, even in the darkest of times, there is good at work. And this story is a heartwarming example of that.
The couple in question has been married for seven decades — longer than most of us have been alive. Loretta Bowen, 90, recently was told she needed surgery to remove a mass from her colon.
Thankfully, her husband, 90-year-old David Bowen, was more prepared than many because he is a prayer warrior and has been for years. And what’s more, her extended family knows the power of prayer, so she was in the best hands possible.
Granddaughter Krista Kellum documented what happened next because it was so miraculous.
“I know this is long, but it is incredible and needs to be shared,” she shared on July 16. “My grandparents have been married for over 70 years, and their love continues to make me cry. “
“A few weeks ago my Grandma was told there was a mass in her colon, which was confirmed by two different scans, a failed colonoscopy (because the mass was in the way) and a dye test.”
“Immediately, we all began to pray. If you know my granddad, you know that he is a praying man. Throughout my entire life, he would go every single morning to the church and spend hours praying.”
Have you ever seen such a heartwarming video? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 0% (0 Votes) No: 100% (11 Votes)
Their prayers were answered in a way that a chosen few have experienced, and the rest of us can only hope for.
“On the day of my grandma’s surgery, they started with a laparoscopy,” Kellum said. “BUT, they didn’t see anything. So, they decided to go into her colon and look, and the mass was totally gone!”
“They kept my grandma in the hospital for a few days, and this video is her returning home and reuniting with her husband. Brb gotta go cry and thank Jesus forever.”
The video shows Loretta being chauffered to their home in Jesup, Georgia. As she opens the door to get out, David yells, “Hey girl!”
“Hey, baby! … Your boss has come home!” Loretta says, and soon they’re in each other’s arms. David tears up, happy to have his wife back.
“The reason I wanted this recorded is because my grandparents have been married for such a long time and their love is still just as strong,” Kellum told ABC News. “And they’re still, as you see in the video, so bonded and strong.”
“They were separated for such a long time while she was in the hospital and he was just beside himself not being able to see her because of the coronavirus,” she explained. “I wanted them to see that and capture that moment and have it forever just because it was such a precious moment seeing them reunited.”
Thanks to Kellum, we’ve been given a brief glimpse into a life of love and faith, something we could all use a little more of right now.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--Famous Faces Who Passed Away in July 2020

Here are some of the famous faces who passed away in July 2020 : Forty-one-year-old Broadway actor Nick Cordero , known for his roles in “ Waitress , ” “ A Bronx Tale ” and “ Bullets Over Broadway , ” died July 5 after suffering medical complications while in the hospital for the coronavirus .
PGA pro Sean Fredrickson died July 5 in a tragic plane crash with his three children over Coeur d ’ Alene Lake in Idaho .
Eight people died as a result of the crash .
Elvis Presley ’ s grandson , Benjamin Keough , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-inflicted gun shot .
He was only 27 years old .
YouTube star Nicole Thea , who was eight months ’ pregnant , died July 11 from what the family believes was a massive heart attack , according to Entertainment Tonight .
She was only 24 years old .
Her unborn son also died .
Actress Kelly Preston , 57 , died July 12 after battling breast cancer for two years .
“ She fought a courageous fight with the love and support of so many , ” John Travolta , her husband @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cole , 75 , died July 12 after suffering from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis .
She most famously was known for penning the beloved “ Magic School Bus ” series .
“ Glee ” actress Naya Rivera tragically went missing July 8 while at Lake Piru in Ventura County , California , with her 4-year-old son .
Authorities found Rivera ’ s son on a boat by himself with an adult life jacket and immediately began searching for her .
Rivera ’ s body was found on July 13 .
She is presumed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Grant Imahara , 49 , died July 13 from an apparent brain aneurysm , The New York Times reported .
Phyllis Somerville , 75 , died July 16 of natural causes .
The actress was known for her roles in movies such as “ Little Children ” and “ The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.
” Civil rights activist and U.S. Rep. John Lewis , 80 , died July 17 after battling pancreatic cancer .
He was the last living Big Six activist ; they had been led by Martin Luther King Jr. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July 24 of natural causes .
He was 88 years old .
Fleetwood Mac guitarist Peter Green passed away July 25 at the age of 73 .
He died “ peacefully in his sleep , ” according to an official statement .
Oscar-winning actress Olivia de Havilland , 104 , passed away from natural causes on July 26 .
She was most famously known for her role in “ Gone with the Wind.
” Businessman and former presidential candidate Herman Cain , 74 , passed away July 30 after being hospitalized because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ His team announced Cain ’ s death in an article titled “ We ’ re heartbroken , and the world is poorer : Herman Cain has gone to be with the Lord.
” “ Deadliest Catch ” star Mahlon Reyes died suddenly on July 27 after suffering a massive heart attack two days before .
He was only 38 years old .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Celebrity Deaths in July 2020
Here are some of the famous faces who passed away in July 2020:
Nick Cordero
Forty-one-year-old Broadway actor Nick Cordero, known for his roles in “Waitress,” “A Bronx Tale” and “Bullets Over Broadway,” died July 5 after suffering medical complications while in the hospital for the coronavirus.
Sean Fredrickson
A horrible loss for the Lake Oswego community. Sean Fredrickson’s wife, April, tells me her husband & their 3 children boarded a float plane at Lake Coeur d’Alene yesterday. Their plane & another collided over lake, then sank. 8 people believed to be dead, per @KootenaiSheriff pic.twitter.com/DyA7jkQHHZ — Brenna Kelly (@BrennaKellyNews) July 6, 2020
PGA pro Sean Fredrickson died July 5 in a tragic plane crash with his three children over Coeur d’Alene Lake in Idaho. Eight people died as a result of the crash.
Benjamin Keough
Elvis Presley’s grandson, Benjamin Keough, died July 12, reportedly from a self-inflicted gun shot. He was only 27 years old.
Nicole Thea
YouTube star Nicole Thea, who was eight months’ pregnant, died July 11 from what the family believes was a massive heart attack, according to Entertainment Tonight. She was only 24 years old. Her unborn son also died.
Kelly Preston
Actress Kelly Preston, 57, died July 12 after battling breast cancer for two years. “She fought a courageous fight with the love and support of so many,” John Travolta, her husband of 28 years, wrote.
Joanna Cole
‘Magic School Bus’ author Joanna Cole passed away over the weekend at age 75. pic.twitter.com/TggqFziBg6 — 6ixBuzzTV (@6ixbuzztv) July 16, 2020
Joanna Cole, 75, died July 12 after suffering from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. She most famously was known for penning the beloved “Magic School Bus” series.
Naya Rivera
BREAKING: Officials say search for Naya Rivera is now a “recovery” mission and she is presumed dead.
Effort to find her continues at full scale.
Her family has been notified and they are here. ?
More at 9a on @FOXLA pic.twitter.com/jFqAG6FRhS — Gigi Graciette (@GigiGraciette) July 9, 2020
“Glee” actress Naya Rivera tragically went missing July 8 while at Lake Piru in Ventura County, California, with her 4-year-old son. Authorities found Rivera’s son on a boat by himself with an adult life jacket and immediately began searching for her.
Rivera’s body was found on July 13. She is presumed to have drowned.
Grant Imahara
We are heartbroken to hear this sad news about Grant. He was an important part of our Discovery family and a really wonderful man. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.? https://t.co/AqiW4zQxD1 — MythBusters (@MythBusters) July 14, 2020
“Mythbusters” host Grant Imahara, 49, died July 13 from an apparent brain aneurysm, The New York Times reported.
Phyllis Somerville
Sad day. Phyllis was an incredible actress, and an awesome person. I’m blessed to have gotten to work with her in Little Children. RIP Phyllis Somerville. pic.twitter.com/yzA4R5nAJN — Jackie Earle Haley (@jackieearle) July 18, 2020
Phyllis Somerville, 75, died July 16 of natural causes. The actress was known for her roles in movies such as “Little Children” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.”
Rep. John Lewis
A scene from 2018, in which civil rights icon Rep. John Lewis danced along to Pharrell’s “Happy” at a rally for Stacey Abrams in Decatur, Georgia. The long-serving and beloved congressman has passed away at age 80. https://t.co/UOBUhuv7oT pic.twitter.com/QcVp35zHkG — ABC News (@ABC) July 18, 2020
Civil rights activist and U.S. Rep. John Lewis, 80, died July 17 after battling pancreatic cancer. He was the last living Big Six activist; they had been led by Martin Luther King Jr.
Regis Philbin
Beloved television host Regis Philbin passed away July 24 of natural causes. He was 88 years old.
Peter Green
Simply put, Peter Green was one of the most soulful British blues singers of his generation. https://t.co/JNvPWbyXMQ — NPR Music (@nprmusic) July 31, 2020
Fleetwood Mac guitarist Peter Green passed away July 25 at the age of 73. He died “peacefully in his sleep,” according to an official statement.
Olivia de Havilland
On August 23rd, TCM will celebrate the life and career of Olivia de Havilland with a 24-hour tribute to the legendary actress and champion for labor rights. Learn more about the #TCMRemembers tribute here: https://t.co/A8rHFgdZPT pic.twitter.com/lcyXAuqPuF — TCM (@tcm) July 29, 2020
Oscar-winning actress Olivia de Havilland, 104, passed away from natural causes on July 26. She was most famously known for her role in “Gone with the Wind.”
Herman Cain
My first on-camera interview was with Herman Cain.
I used the term “African American” in a question, Cain looked at me and said, “Its OK to call me black.” What happened next I’ll never forget. The political world is a sadder place without Mr. Cain. RIP Cheerful Patriot pic.twitter.com/TPqRE6ddit — Benny (@bennyjohnson) July 30, 2020
Businessman and former presidential candidate Herman Cain, 74, passed away July 30 after being hospitalized because of the coronavirus for nearly a month. His team announced Cain’s death in an article titled “We’re heartbroken, and the world is poorer: Herman Cain has gone to be with the Lord.”
Mahlon Reyes
“Deadliest Catch” star Mahlon Reyes died suddenly on July 27 after suffering a massive heart attack two days before. He was only 38 years old.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--Federal Judge Files Request Seeking Assange’s Help in Seth Rich Case

A United States federal judge is seeking access to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange — currently in jail in the United Kingdom — for his testimony in a civil suit involving Fox News and the family of the late Seth Rich , a former Democratic National Committee staff member .
U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn made the request to the British courts in a filing Wednesday , according to a copy obtained by Just the News .
The civil suit at the center of the request was originally brought by Joel and Mary Rich , the parents of Seth , against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ son to Assange and WikiLeaks .
Although it was dismissed in 2018 , the lawsuit was reinstated by an appeals court .
Fox News eventually retracted the article .
If the judge ’ s request is accepted , Assange could be asked 20 questions listed in the legal document , including several relating to Seth Rich , 27 , who was shot to death in Washington , D.C. , on July 10 , 2016 .
No one has been arrested in that case .
In London , Assange is battling extradition to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unlawfully published names of classified sources connected to the U.S. government a decade ago .
British police arrested Assange in April 2019 after the South American nation of Ecuador revoked the political asylum it had given him for nearly seven years .
Assange originally skipped bail in the U.K. while waiting to be extradited to Sweden to face sexual assault accusations , and he hid for almost seven years inside the Ecuadorian Embassy in London .
Meanwhile , while police think the killing of Seth Rich was an armed robbery gone wrong , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his alleged involvement in sensitive political leaks .
Rich is speculated by some to have been at the center of Democratic National Committee email leaks that rocked the 2016 election .
WikiLeaks took a heavy interest in the killing , offering $ 130,000 for information about the death of Rich .
RELATED : Leaked Emails Show Fauci Was Called Hillary 's 'Doctor Admirer , ' Wanted Hillary To Know 'We All Love Her' Assange would be asked about any contact with Rich or his family , the DNC email leaks , and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s unclear if this testimony is possible given the reportedly poor health of Assange , 49 .
With Assange ’ s arrest in London last year , his years-long stint as a virtual prisoner seemingly caused the decline in his physical and mental health .
The WikiLeaks founder apparently was so ill in 2019 that he missed a court hearing .
Given the coronavirus pandemic , it ’ s unlikely Assange would be able to offer anything more than video testimony .
With his health decline happening during a pandemic , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the essence .
While he might not be able to give the nation closure on the death of Rich , it ’ s clear that Assange is a vital witness whose testimony needs to be heard .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A United States federal judge is seeking access to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange — currently in jail in the United Kingdom — for his testimony in a civil suit involving Fox News and the family of the late Seth Rich, a former Democratic National Committee staff member.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn made the request to the British courts in a filing Wednesday, according to a copy obtained by Just the News.
The civil suit at the center of the request was originally brought by Joel and Mary Rich, the parents of Seth, against Fox News over an article linking their son to Assange and WikiLeaks.
Although it was dismissed in 2018, the lawsuit was reinstated by an appeals court. Fox News eventually retracted the article.
If the judge’s request is accepted, Assange could be asked 20 questions listed in the legal document, including several relating to Seth Rich, 27, who was shot to death in Washington, D.C., on July 10, 2016.
No one has been arrested in that case.
In London, Assange is battling extradition to the United States on espionage charges that he unlawfully published names of classified sources connected to the U.S. government a decade ago.
British police arrested Assange in April 2019 after the South American nation of Ecuador revoked the political asylum it had given him for nearly seven years.
Assange originally skipped bail in the U.K. while waiting to be extradited to Sweden to face sexual assault accusations, and he hid for almost seven years inside the Ecuadorian Embassy in London.
Will Julian Assange wind up testifying in this lawsuit? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 57% (1233 Votes) No: 43% (925 Votes)
Meanwhile, while police think the killing of Seth Rich was an armed robbery gone wrong, some theories claim Rich was targeted for his alleged involvement in sensitive political leaks.
Rich is speculated by some to have been at the center of Democratic National Committee email leaks that rocked the 2016 election.
WikiLeaks took a heavy interest in the killing, offering $130,000 for information about the death of Rich.
Reward for the killers of Seth Rich is now $130,000 https://t.co/KAiNFJusIb — WikiLeaks (@wikileaks) January 19, 2017
Assange would be asked about any contact with Rich or his family, the DNC email leaks, and the reason for WikiLeaks’ reward offer.
It’s unclear if this testimony is possible given the reportedly poor health of Assange, 49.
With Assange’s arrest in London last year, his years-long stint as a virtual prisoner seemingly caused the decline in his physical and mental health.
The WikiLeaks founder apparently was so ill in 2019 that he missed a court hearing. Given the coronavirus pandemic, it’s unlikely Assange would be able to offer anything more than video testimony.
With his health decline happening during a pandemic, it’s clear that time is of the essence.
While he might not be able to give the nation closure on the death of Rich, it’s clear that Assange is a vital witness whose testimony needs to be heard.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--Chinese Officials Take Cheap Shots at Trump, US Over New Sanctions

Hong Kong ’ s leader and China ’ s top representative in the city took shots at the United States on Saturday after the Trump administration sanctioned them and nine other officials for cracking down on freedom and undermining the local autonomy of the former British colony .
Chief Executive Carrie Lam took to Facebook to say that the U.S. got her address wrong , listing the official address of her chief deputy instead .
She noted that she was the deputy when she applied for her U.S. visa in 2016 .
“ By the way , my entry visa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Since I have no desire to visit this country , it looks like I can take the initiative to cancel it , ” Lam said .
The sanctions , announced Friday by the U.S. Treasury Department , block all property or other assets that the individuals have within U.S. jurisdiction .
Luo Huining , the director of the central government ’ s liaison office in Hong Kong , said being included on the list shows that he has done what he should for the city and his country .
“ I don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abroad .
Isn ’ t it in vain to impose ‘ sanctions ’ ?
Of course , I can also send 100 U.S. dollars to Mr. Trump for freezing , ” he said in a statement on the office ’ s website .
Hong Kong Commerce Secretary Edward Yau , who wasn ’ t sanctioned , called the sanctions “ unreasonable and barbarous ” and said they would harm U.S. interests in the city , an Asian financial and shipping hub .
Hong Kong has long enjoyed civil liberties not seen in mainland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so-called “ one country , two systems ” principle in place since 1997 .
However , Beijing imposed a national security law on Hong Kong at the end of June , following months of anti-government protests last year .
The new law prohibits what Beijing views as secessionist , subversive or terrorist activities — such as holding anti-government flags or signs — and what it sees as foreign intervention in Hong Kong ’ s internal affairs .
Police now have sweeping powers to conduct searches without warrants and order internet service providers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in violation of the legislation .
Critics see the law as Beijing ’ s boldest move yet to erase the divide between Hong Kong ’ s Western-style system and the mainland ’ s authoritarian government .
“ The recent imposition of draconian national security legislation on Hong Kong has not only undermined Hong Kong ’ s autonomy , it has also infringed on the rights of people in Hong Kong , ” the Treasury Department said .
RELATED : Trump Admin Takes Action Against Chinese Officials Who 'Crushed ' Freedoms in Hong Kong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sanctions “ blatant and barbaric interference ” in China ’ s internal affairs .
“ These legal provisions , coupled with the rule of law and an independent judiciary in Hong Kong , are clearly ignored by relevant U.S. officials who have chosen to make unsubstantiated and sweeping comments to serve their own interest , ” a government statement said .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Hong Kong’s leader and China’s top representative in the city took shots at the United States on Saturday after the Trump administration sanctioned them and nine other officials for cracking down on freedom and undermining the local autonomy of the former British colony.
Chief Executive Carrie Lam took to Facebook to say that the U.S. got her address wrong, listing the official address of her chief deputy instead.
She noted that she was the deputy when she applied for her U.S. visa in 2016.
“By the way, my entry visa to the U.S. is valid until 2026. Since I have no desire to visit this country, it looks like I can take the initiative to cancel it,” Lam said.
The sanctions, announced Friday by the U.S. Treasury Department, block all property or other assets that the individuals have within U.S. jurisdiction.
Luo Huining, the director of the central government’s liaison office in Hong Kong, said being included on the list shows that he has done what he should for the city and his country.
“I don’t have a penny of assets abroad. Isn’t it in vain to impose ‘sanctions’? Of course, I can also send 100 U.S. dollars to Mr. Trump for freezing,” he said in a statement on the office’s website.
Hong Kong Commerce Secretary Edward Yau, who wasn’t sanctioned, called the sanctions “unreasonable and barbarous” and said they would harm U.S. interests in the city, an Asian financial and shipping hub.
Hong Kong has long enjoyed civil liberties not seen in mainland China because it is governed under a so-called “one country, two systems” principle in place since 1997.
Do you think the sanctions against China are enough? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 6% (124 Votes) No: 94% (2116 Votes)
However, Beijing imposed a national security law on Hong Kong at the end of June, following months of anti-government protests last year.
The new law prohibits what Beijing views as secessionist, subversive or terrorist activities — such as holding anti-government flags or signs — and what it sees as foreign intervention in Hong Kong’s internal affairs.
Police now have sweeping powers to conduct searches without warrants and order internet service providers and platforms to remove messages deemed to be in violation of the legislation.
Critics see the law as Beijing’s boldest move yet to erase the divide between Hong Kong’s Western-style system and the mainland’s authoritarian government.
“The recent imposition of draconian national security legislation on Hong Kong has not only undermined Hong Kong’s autonomy, it has also infringed on the rights of people in Hong Kong,” the Treasury Department said.
The Hong Kong government called the U.S. sanctions “blatant and barbaric interference” in China’s internal affairs.
“These legal provisions, coupled with the rule of law and an independent judiciary in Hong Kong, are clearly ignored by relevant U.S. officials who have chosen to make unsubstantiated and sweeping comments to serve their own interest,” a government statement said.
[jwplayer PYKUami9]
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-08-08--Anti-Gov’t Protest Spirals into Riot After Deadly Lebanese Explosion

Lebanese security forces clashed with stone-throwing protesters after they tried to reach the Parliament area in downtown Beirut .
Thousands of people had poured into Beirut ’ s main square on Saturday hanging up symbolic nooses after this week ’ s explosion .
The violence by a small group of young men began at the start of anti-government protests planned in the wake of the deadly blast at Beirut port that devastated large parts of the capital and killed more than 150 people .
The explosion of thousands of tons of ammonium nitrate stored at the port , apparently set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ biggest in Lebanon ’ s history and caused an estimated $ 10-15 billion worth of damage , according to Beirut ’ s governor .
It also left hundreds of thousands of people homeless .
Senior officials from the Middle East and Europe started arriving in Lebanon on Saturday in a show of solidarity with the tiny country .
Lebanon ’ s ruling class , made up mostly of former civil war-era leaders , is blamed for widespread corruption , incompetence and mismanagement that contributed to Tuesday ’ s explosion .
The president of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three legislators have decided to resign from Parliament over this week ’ s “ disaster.
” Sami Gemayel called on every “ honorable ” member of parliament to resign and work for the “ birth of a new Lebanon.
” A senior Kataeb party official was killed in the blast , which claimed at least 154 lives , wounded more than 5,000 people and laid waste to the country ’ s largest port and nearby areas .
Also killed were 43 Syrians , the country ’ s embassy in Beirut said .
Lebanon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ refugees .
The Dutch foreign ministry said Saturday that Hedwig Waltmans-Molier , the wife of the Netherlands ’ ambassador to Lebanon , had also died of injuries sustained in Tuesday ’ s blast .
The explosion came at a time when Lebanon is mired in its worst economic and financial crisis in decades .
Documents that surfaced after the blast showed that for years officials had been repeatedly warned that the presence of 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate at the port posed grave danger , but no one acted to remove it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the explosion and 19 people have been detained , including the port ’ s chief , the head of Lebanon ’ s customs department and his predecessor .
RELATED : US Aid Begins Flowing into Lebanon in Wake of Devastating Explosion “ We will support Lebanon through all available means , ” Ahmed Aboul Gheit , the secretary general of the 22-member Arab League told reporters after meeting with President Michel Aoun on Saturday morning .
Aboul Gheit said he would take part in a donors conference for Lebanon in France on Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the international community .
Later on Saturday the president of the European Council , Charles Michel , arrived in Beirut for a brief visit .
Turkey ’ s vice president and the country ’ s foreign minister arrived Saturday morning and met Aoun , saying that Ankara was ready to help rebuild Beirut ’ s port and evacuate some of the wounded from Lebanon to Turkey for treatment .
At the site of the blast in Beirut ’ s port , workers were still searching for dozens of people who have been missing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ removing debris near the giant grain silos that are still partly standing .
International aid has been flowing to Lebanon for days and several field hospitals have been set up around Beirut to help treat the wounded .
President Donald Trump said Friday that he had spoken by telephone with Aoun and French President Emmanuel Macron , who paid a brief visit to Lebanon on Thursday .
Trump noted that medical supplies , food and water were being sent from the United States , along with emergency responders , technicians , doctors and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chemical used in fertilizers and explosives , originated from a cargo ship called MV Rhosus that had been traveling from the country of Georgia to Mozambique in 2013 .
It made an unscheduled detour to Beirut as the Russian shipowner was struggling with debts and hoped to earn some extra cash in Lebanon .
Unable to pay port fees and reportedly leaking , the ship was impounded .
In 2014 , the material was moved from the ship and placed in a warehouse at the port where it stayed until the explosion .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Lebanese security forces clashed with stone-throwing protesters after they tried to reach the Parliament area in downtown Beirut.
Thousands of people had poured into Beirut’s main square on Saturday hanging up symbolic nooses after this week’s explosion.
The violence by a small group of young men began at the start of anti-government protests planned in the wake of the deadly blast at Beirut port that devastated large parts of the capital and killed more than 150 people.
The explosion of thousands of tons of ammonium nitrate stored at the port, apparently set off by a fire, was the biggest in Lebanon’s history and caused an estimated $10-15 billion worth of damage, according to Beirut’s governor. It also left hundreds of thousands of people homeless.
Senior officials from the Middle East and Europe started arriving in Lebanon on Saturday in a show of solidarity with the tiny country.
Lebanon’s ruling class, made up mostly of former civil war-era leaders, is blamed for widespread corruption, incompetence and mismanagement that contributed to Tuesday’s explosion.
The president of the Christian opposition Kataeb party said its three legislators have decided to resign from Parliament over this week’s “disaster.”
Sami Gemayel called on every “honorable” member of parliament to resign and work for the “birth of a new Lebanon.”
A senior Kataeb party official was killed in the blast, which claimed at least 154 lives, wounded more than 5,000 people and laid waste to the country’s largest port and nearby areas.
Do you think the Lebanese government is to blame for the explosion? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 92% (69 Votes) No: 8% (6 Votes)
Also killed were 43 Syrians, the country’s embassy in Beirut said. Lebanon is home to some 1 million Syrian refugees.
The Dutch foreign ministry said Saturday that Hedwig Waltmans-Molier, the wife of the Netherlands’ ambassador to Lebanon, had also died of injuries sustained in Tuesday’s blast.
The explosion came at a time when Lebanon is mired in its worst economic and financial crisis in decades.
Documents that surfaced after the blast showed that for years officials had been repeatedly warned that the presence of 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate at the port posed grave danger, but no one acted to remove it.
Officials have been blaming one another since the explosion and 19 people have been detained, including the port’s chief, the head of Lebanon’s customs department and his predecessor.
“We will support Lebanon through all available means,” Ahmed Aboul Gheit, the secretary general of the 22-member Arab League told reporters after meeting with President Michel Aoun on Saturday morning.
Aboul Gheit said he would take part in a donors conference for Lebanon in France on Sunday and represent Lebanon’s interests to the international community.
Later on Saturday the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, arrived in Beirut for a brief visit.
Turkey’s vice president and the country’s foreign minister arrived Saturday morning and met Aoun, saying that Ankara was ready to help rebuild Beirut’s port and evacuate some of the wounded from Lebanon to Turkey for treatment.
At the site of the blast in Beirut’s port, workers were still searching for dozens of people who have been missing since Tuesday. Bulldozers were also seen removing debris near the giant grain silos that are still partly standing.
International aid has been flowing to Lebanon for days and several field hospitals have been set up around Beirut to help treat the wounded.
President Donald Trump said Friday that he had spoken by telephone with Aoun and French President Emmanuel Macron, who paid a brief visit to Lebanon on Thursday.
Trump noted that medical supplies, food and water were being sent from the United States, along with emergency responders, technicians, doctors and nurses.
The ammonium nitrate, a chemical used in fertilizers and explosives, originated from a cargo ship called MV Rhosus that had been traveling from the country of Georgia to Mozambique in 2013.
It made an unscheduled detour to Beirut as the Russian shipowner was struggling with debts and hoped to earn some extra cash in Lebanon. Unable to pay port fees and reportedly leaking, the ship was impounded.
In 2014, the material was moved from the ship and placed in a warehouse at the port where it stayed until the explosion.
[jwplayer cd9H1rcE]
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.