What a shame!

 

The photo has been used for illustrative purposes.

 

In the long history of mankind, leaders have never had the opportunity, to make a difference to their people, as of now. The very lives of people depend on the quality of decisions that leaders make in these dark times. Overall, most countries have let the virus wander around, with harnessing it. The virus has attacked countries in waves, each time with renewed ferocity.

What a mess the world has made of the vaccination program too. Against the target of 20 million vaccinations to be completed in 2020 in the US, the actual number vaccinated was just 5.46 million. Western countries that have the vaccines have not rolled them out expeditiously, due to issues in logistics, communications, and coordination. Countries in Africa and Asia which need the vaccines do not have the money to buy them. They are waiting for cheaper vaccines. Quite simply, there are not enough vaccines to go around.

Developing countries are taking days and weeks to approve of the vaccines. When a vaccine-like Pfizer or Moderna or Oxford has been blessed by the WHO, US, and The UK, how much time do developing countries need to approve them?  They are debating them for days. A meeting convened to clear an established vaccine, should not adjourn, without reaching a decision, even if the meeting lasts for 24 to 36 hours at a stretch. Nobody should go home. Provide beds, toiletries, food in the meeting rooms. But, clear the agenda. No postponements. We cannot be cavalier.

Various leaders have their own agendas. On the day Donald Trump’s supporters invaded the Capitol building, 3,865 Americans died due to COVID- 19. Next day’s toll: 4,000. The eyes of the world were on the invasion of the Capitol, not on the people dying, as they waited for hospital rooms.

Rajendra Aneja — Mumbai, India

 

A self-pardon could do more harm to Trump

 David Yaffe-Bellany, Tribune News Service

Any move by President Donald Trump to pardon himself in his final days in office could backfire, legal experts say, inviting the incoming administration to challenge the unprecedented action by filing criminal charges against him.

Trump has raised the possibility of a self-pardon in recent days as calls grow for him to face prosecution for inciting the US Capitol siege that resulted in five deaths and sent members of Congress scrambling for safety. But though the president has vast authority to grant clemency to others, a self-pardon would be a novel assertion of executive power that both Democrats and Republicans might want the Supreme Court to strike down.

“It would almost set himself up as a sitting duck to be prosecuted,” said Nick Akerman, a former Watergate prosecutor. “It takes the edge off the idea that you’re going after somebody just because they were a political opponent in the prior administration.”

Trump faced legal threats even before Wednesday’s riot. The administration of President-elect Joe Biden could decide to revive special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into obstruction of justice by Trump or launch a new probe into his taxes. But such prosecutions were likely to face stiff Republican opposition, and Biden has signaled he might prefer to move on.

The Capitol siege has now scrambled political calculations, with many of the president’s allies abandoning him. The New York Times reported on Thursday that White House counsel Pat Cipollone warned Trump he could potentially face charges for encouraging the riot. At a news conference on Thursday, the acting US attorney in Washington said he would not rule out investigating the president’s role.

Under such circumstances, a self-pardon may prove tempting for Trump. But many experts say the idea has weak legal foundations.

To start with, Trump has been shielded from federal criminal prosecution while in office not by the Constitution or binding Supreme Court precedent but by internal Justice Department policy. A self-pardon would challenge the constitutionality of another such policy encapsulated in a 1974 memo citing the “fundamental rule that no one may be a judge in his own case” and concluding that “the president cannot pardon himself.”

The Justice Department policy dates from the Watergate scandal, in which President Richard Nixon resigned and was pardoned by his former vice president, Gerald Ford. If Trump were to follow that path and accept a pardon from a President Mike Pence, the act would be on solid legal ground. But a self-pardon has no historical precedent.

The Constitution says that a president “shall have power to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment.” Some experts have said they believe this means the power is absolute. Former George W. Bush Justice Department official John Yoo wrote in an October 2017 New York Times op-ed that the president “can clearly pardon anyone — even himself.”

But other experts say that would go against the framer’s intent. “If the president can pardon himself, there’s no recourse for federal crimes that he has committed,” said Jessica Levinson, a constitutional law professor at Loyola Marymount University, “and that’s not really how our system is set up.”

Akerman points to the verb “grant” as evidence that a pardon is something the president can only bestow on others.

“It’s a transitive verb, the object of which is somebody other than the person doing the granting,” he said. “Linguistically, it doesn’t make sense that you can pardon yourself.”

Trump may have thought that the Supreme Court’s 6-3 conservative majority, which includes three justices he appointed, would side with him in such a dispute. He repeatedly expressed a belief that the high court would back his legal efforts to overturn the election results. But the justices, along with several other federal judges, soundly rejected the president’s arguments. Experts say they are likely to be similarly skeptical about a self-pardon.

Still, the president may ultimately conclude that the possible benefits of a self-pardon outweigh the risks. The legal battle over the validity of the pardon would prolong any prosecution, giving him time to build a stronger defense and sapping the government’s resources.

we the people

 The Executive Branch

Peter Carroll/Getty Images

The Executive Branch of government is headed by the President of the United States. He also acts as the head of state in diplomatic relations and as Commander-in-Chief for all U.S. branches of the armed forces.

The President is responsible for implementing and enforcing the laws written by Congress. Further, he appoints the heads of the federal agencies, including the Cabinet, to ensure legislation is executed.

The Vice President is also part of the Executive Branch. He must be ready to assume the presidency should the need arise. As the next in line for succession, he might become President should the current one die or become incapacitated while in office or the unthinkable process of impeachment occurs.

As a key part of the Executive Branch, the 15 federal executive departments develop, enforce, and oversee the voluminous rules and regulations currently in force in the United States. As the administrative arms of the President of the United States, the executive departments make up the president’s advisory Cabinet. The heads of the executive departments—known as “Secretaries”—are appointed by the president and take office after confirmation by the United States Senate.

The heads of executive departments are included in the line of succession to the President, in the event of a vacancy in the presidency, after the Vice President, the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate.

02

of 04

The Legislative Branch

Dan Thornberg/EyeEm/Getty Images

Every society needs laws. In the United States, the power to make laws is given to Congress, which represents the legislative branch of government.

Congress is divided into two groups: the Senate and the House of Representatives. Each is made up of members elected from each state. The Senate is comprised of two Senators per state and the House is based on population, totaling 435 members.

The structure of the two houses of Congress was the greatest debate during the Constitutional Convention. By dividing representatives both equally and based on size, the Founding Fathers were able to ensure that each state had a say in the federal government.

VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System

 

 

Notice of Road Closure- N. Pecos Road

 

This map shows the construction and road closure of                                 N. Pecos Road. All traffic to and from the VA Medical Center must use CC-215.

By John Archiquette, Public Affairs Specialist

Monday, September 14, 2020

**Road Closure Alert**
The City of North Las Vegas will close a portion of North Pecos Road adjacent to the North Las Vegas VA Medical Center for approximately 30 days beginning Sept. 16 for construction of a storm drain. The road will be closed between Centennial Parkway and the VA medical center main entrance and affect access to Shelley Berkley Way.

During this time, Veterans and staff will need to use the CC-215 Beltway to access to the VA Medical Center and enter and exit the facility via the main entrance

Important Information Events/Changes/Updates Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic Situation

We stand together during this unprecedented time to support each other and to share information important to veterans and their families.

It may feel as though it is hard to keep up with this fluid situation which is changing each day, even changing by the hour. We are sharing what we know and invite you to share information you come across, from a postponed or cancelled event to activities that support our families, friends, communities.

Simply email Fanny Rizo at rizof@veterans.nv.gov with your information, along with the point of contact information. Below, you will find information about events, services, resources and more.

CORONAVIRUS INFORMATION

Nevada Health Response is a one-stop-shop resource from announcements to information on where to apply for SNAP benefits or where to take the children to get a meal and much more.

Nevada Health Response Center Releases COVID-19 Risk Mitigation Initiative

Nevada Public Health Division

Southern Nevada Health District

City of Las Vegas

Washoe County

City of Reno

Centers for Disease Control    

Nevada Homeless Shelter Operational Changes- COVID-19   

United Way of Southern Nevada      

Nevada Homeless Alliance

Reno Sparks Tahoe Economic Development Authority Of Western Nevada

Goodwill Of Southern Nevada

NELLIS AFB TO REMAIN IN PHASE III OF REOPENING PLAN

CARES HOUSING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (CHAP)

State of Nevada’s $30 million residential rental assistance program now taking applications

Rental Assistance CARES Act

STATE OF NEVADA/FEDERAL SERVICES

Rural Outreach (ROVER) – Suspended until further notice.

Board of Veterans Appeals – Suspended – Effective March 23, 2020- Suspension of all video and Central Office hearings through at least May 1, 2020.

State Veterans Cemeteries

The COVID-19 crisis is impacting the way we and other veterans’ cemeteries across the country are conducting business. If you have lost a loved one during this time, please know, our hearts are with you. We will work with you to honor your loved one and keep everyone safe from exposure to the virus. Please see the changes at the cemetery below.

Burial Operations

Our deepest sympathy and concern are being extended to families who have lost a loved one during this unprecedented time. 

Nevada has moved to Phase 2 of Reopening, effective May 29, 2020.  Our cemeteries will now allow up to 50 observers following social distancing for the direct burials.  Additionally, we have informed the funeral homes that full honors are now allowed at interment, but the honor guard must follow social distancing as well.

We appreciate those families who have agreed to postpone interments and will reach out to them in the near future to schedule interments. You may contact cemetery staff by phone or email:

You may contact cemetery staff by phone or email:

Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery (702) 486-5920, extension 221 or email naylorc@veterans.nv.gov

Northern Nevada State Veterans Memorial Cemetery – (775) 575-4441, Extension 25 or email velasquezj@veterans.nv.gov

Preparing for the Inevitable by the Military and Friends Club, Sun City, Summerlin helps you get your affairs in order to reduce stress when one passes away. This helpful document was initially intended for southern Nevadans and omits the Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Fernley, which is an option for Nevadans who live in the north. Additionally there is no cost for veteran’s interment and a $450 fee (subject to change) for dependents at both veterans’ cemeteries. 

Our cemeteries are operating along the same guidelines as the National Cemetery Association 

State Veterans Homes

Visitation is being curtailed but “Virtual Visits” are now being offered at both the Northern and Southern Nevada State Veterans Homes to reduce Coronavirus exposure risk to our residents and team members. To make arrangements, the phone numbers are listed below.

Southern Nevada State Veterans Home – (702) 332-6784

Northern Nevada State Veterans Home – (775) 827-2955

RESOURCES

• The Nevada Independent offers a guide on where to find food, cash, assistance 

• (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline
• Food Assistance is Available Across Nevada

• Clark County School Meals – FOX 5 has a list of locations

• Food Bank of Northern Nevada

• Catholic Charities, Saint Vincent’s Food Pantry

• Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services through Access NV

• Military One Source has a comprehensive list of resources that include mental health services, activities to stay busy and much more.

• In Crisis? Resources available under our Suicide Prevention tab. 

• Vet to Vet facilitator, David Heinz, will be providing virtual  group sessions on Tuesdays at 7:00 PM. Veterans may join via phone at 425-436-6318, access code 655793. 

• Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) is hosting, via Zoom, daily programming for spouses and children who have lost a loved one serving who was serving in the U.S. military. 

• Mission 22 is providing programs on a variety of mental health topics to support veterans and their families. 

• Merging Vets and Players Online Workouts provides workouts featuring guests such as Jay Glazer, Randy Couture and NFL stars.  

• Social Distancing and Coping  (Look under Publications)

• Managing Anxiety and Coping

• Talking with Children and Coping  (Look under Publications)

• Disaster Resource Guide 

• VA Debt Management Center (DMC): Veterans and their families impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19), resulting in inability to repay debt with the DMC can request assistance.

• VBA Overpayment: Veterans and families impacted by Coronavirus (COVID-19) and need temporary financial assistance from their VBA benefit debt may call 1-800-827-0648.

• PenFed Foundation COVID-19 Emergency Financial Relief Program They are no longer accepting applications but this site provides links to other resources. 

• City of Reno Homeless Shelter Operational Changes

• Resources for Northern Nevada Senior Citizens

• Who’s hiring in Las Vegas? These companies are adding workers

• Learn what scammers are up to regarding COVID-19

• Planning for the Inevitable by the Military and Friends Club, Sun City, Summerlin helps you “get your things in order," to limit stress when one passes. This plan omits the Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, which is an option for northern Nevadans. Also, there is no cost for veterans interment  and a $450 fee (subject to change) for dependents.

• CORTEZ MASTO SHARES UPDATED CORONAVIRUS DISASTER RESOURCE GUIDE, UNVEILS SPANISH LANGUAGE DISASTER GUIDE & FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON CARES ACT

• Dental Services especially for those who are Medicare/Medicaid recipients!
• NRHA COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Program
• VA Plan for Pre-COVID Operations

UNEMPLOYMENT AND OTHER ASSISTANCE

• File for Unemployment
• New Unemployment Tool for Filing

• Free Statewide Unemployment  Benefits- ASK A LAWYER

• Office Closures, Rapid Response Information

• Job Resources/Opportunities

• Small Business Administration Disaster Loans DEADLINE TO FILE IS DECEMBER 17, 2020. SBA Customer Service: (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov

UTILITIES

• Las Vegas Water District will work with customers and those facing financial hardships to establish payment arrangements and provide other customer services. Call 702-870-4194.

• City of Henderson is temporarily suspends water service shut offs.

• North Las Vegas Utilities is working with those who cannot pay. Call 702-633-1484.

• NV Energy – Those experiencing financial hardship or isolation from the Coronavirus can call NV Energy at 702-402-5555 to discuss payment options and receive support.

• Southwest Gas will not disconnect natural gas for nonpayments until further notice.

The Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act – The programs and initiatives in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. 

MESSAGES FROM NEVADA VA DIRECTORS

VASNHS COVID-19 Update – April 5, 2020

Changes at the VA Sierra Nevada Health Center due to COVID-19

From the Director of the VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System in Reno, Lisa Howard:
In light of the flu and COVID-19 now reaching our local community, significant changes have been implemented. VA is a leader in responsible approaches to protect Veterans, staff and our community. I appreciate your cooperation to minimize disruption and stay focused on mission. Please follow updates to services provided by going on-line to: https://www.reno.va.gov/

Changes and updates from the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System  due to COVID-19

From the Director of the Southern Nevada Health Care System in Las Vegas, William J. Caron:
VASNHS is currently screening all Veterans, staff and other visitors at the entrances to all our facilities for symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Please follow VASNHS updates to services provided by going on-line to: https://www.lasvegas.va.gov/