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Classic Blue is Pantone Color Institute’s color of the year

Northern Arizona University professor explains how climate change affects everyone

Speaker Nancy Pelosi: The facts are uncontested ... the president abused his office Updated 11 Eastern.

The most vulnerable coastal communities sit only a few feet above sea level and are already getting wet at some high tides

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to deliver public statement on Trump impeachment

Profs make impeachment case; Democrats say they're all in

First Native American appointed as justice on the Washington State Supreme Court

A social media app geared toward the outdoor lives of Inuit launched Wednesday with features that tie traditional knowledge to smartphone technology. 

While most schools across the country begin their days with the singing of the national anthem in English or French, some students in southwestern Ontario are learning the anthem a different way. 

The Liberal government will lay out its priorities for its second term in office in the throne speech today — a chance for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to reboot his government after voters reduced it to a minority in the last election campaign.

Published December 5, 2019

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration announced on Wednesday it will eliminate benefits for 688,000 adults who currently participate in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP.

The announcement comes three weeks before Christmas. The new rule will make it more difficult for states to waive requirements that adults with no disabilities must work at least 20 hours per week or else be eliminatd from SNAP.

“We need to encourage people by giving them a helping hand, but not allowing it to become an infinitely giving hand,” U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said in a press release. “Now, in the midst of the strongest economy in a generation, we need everyone who can work, to work.”

Anti-hunger organization leaders fear the new rule will hurt low-income individuals who cannot find steay work. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Michigan) worries the new rule will negatively impact seasonal workers in northern Michigan who have a difficult time finding employment during the off-season.

The USDA says these steps will save nearly $5 billion over five years.

The post Trump Administration Cuts Food Stamps to Almost 700,000 Adults appeared first on Native News Online.

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez following the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement to establish the Navajo Law Fellowship Program with University of Arizona and Arizona Board of Regents officials in Tucson, Ariz. on Dec. 3, 2019.

Published December 5, 2019

TUCSON, Ariz. — Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez was joined by Miss Navajo Nation Shaandiin Parrish as he finalized a Memorandum of Agreement with the University of Arizona at the James E. Rogers School of Law on Tuesday, which establishes the Navajo Law Fellowship Program with the overall goal of increasing the number of Navajo law school graduates and creating pathways to legal careers.

President Nez said the new fellowship program is an investment in the future of the Navajo Nation, and also empowers young Navajo people to determine their own future and creates another pathway for Navajo students to come home and give back to their communities.

“This MOA is intended to empower our Diné students — to bring them home to the Navajo Nation to help our people through this partnership with the University of Arizona. I am thankful to the University for working with us to create this new opportunity,” said President Nez. 

Under the terms of the MOA, the Office of Navajo Nation Scholarship and Financial Assistance and the University of Arizona will partner to match financial aid awards to Navajo law school students who are part of the fellowship program.

In addition, first-year law school students will receive academic advisement, information, and an overview of the Navajo Nation legal system and legal career possibilities within the Navajo Nation. They will also be placed in a summer honors externship that may include rotations through selected Navajo Nation law offices, court locations, legal aid offices and other placements.

Second-year students will be offered a course on Navajo Nation law and the legal system. The summer externships will build on the first-year experiences and include a workshop that helps to prepare for the Navajo Nation Bar Exam. Third-year students will participate in a workshop that prepares them for the Arizona Bar Exam and Navajo Nation placement following the exam.

“This is a great partnership and a great opportunity to foster the development of more Diné professionals. Our Nation has a great need for more legal expertise to help move us forward in many ways whether it be securing water rights, the protection of our women and children, or other important matters,” said Vice President Myron Lizer.

As part of the program, the Office of Navajo Nation Scholarship and Financial Assistance will also provide additional funds to cover a portion of fees for students who are admitted to and attend the Pre-Law Summer Institute at the University of New Mexico and fees for the state bar exam application and the Bar Review course necessary to help prepare for the bar exam.

During the visit to the campus, President Nez also met with Navajo students who are part of the Navajo Nation Future Physicians’ Scholarship Fund program, which was established under the former administration.  

The agreement with the University of Arizona College of Medicine is designed to help more Navajo students pursue careers as physicians. The program currently provides financial aid to seven Navajo students for the costs of tuition and academic support to help them earn a medical degree from the University. 

“Our Nation is working with IHS to construct several new hospital facilities in our communities including Dilkon, near the city of Gallup, and we’re working to develop more so we need more health and medical professionals to return home and help our people,” stated President Nez.

He also met with University of Arizona President Dr. Robert C. Robbins to discuss how to develop more partnerships to benefit Navajo students and to develop stronger support from the University for all Native American students by creating a senior level position to advise the University on Native American issues to help students, providing academic advisors for Native American students, more financial assistance, and more to improve retention and graduation rates. He also delivered a letter from the Native SOAR student organization outlining concerns and recommendations from the Native American student body representatives.

The Office of the President and Vice President thanks Native SOAR, Native American Law Students Association, University of Arizona President Dr. Robert C. Robbins, James E. Rogers School of Law Dean Mark Miller Regents Professor of Law Rob Williams, Assistant Vice President for Tribal Relations and Government & Community Relations Karen Francis-Begay, and Office of Navajo Nation Scholarship and Financial Assistance Department Manager Rose Graham for your support.

The post Navajo Nation and University of Arizona Sign MOA to Create the Navajo Law Fellowship Program appeared first on Native News Online.

Published December 5, 2019

BEMIDJI, Minn. — Watermark Art Center will hold an opening reception for “Akinomaage – Teaching from the Earth” December 6 from 5 to 7 p.m., with photographer and author Vern Northrup speaking at 6 p.m.

Vern Northrup

Interpreter, educator, learner are three words that describe the lens Vern Northrup (Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa) looks through when photographing the world. Akinomaage, Teaching from the Earth, is the Ojibwe word for what Northrup seeks to do with his photography. As an interpreter, educator and learner, Northrup wants to gain knowledge from the earth.

Using only the camera on his smart phone, Northrup captures the setting of where he grew up, creating a nostalgia for those familiar with the area, and a curiosity for those who aren’t. He uses photography as a tool to educate both himself and the viewer about the rhythm of nature, the preservation of tradition, and the relationship between resilience and sustainability. Northrup recognizes the ability of the land to act as a narrator and uses photography to reveal the story in landscapes. “Akinomaage” will run from December 6 through February 28 in Watermark’s Miikanan Gallery. Watermark is free and open to the public. 505 Bemidji Avenue N. in Bemidji, Minnesota. watermarkartcenter.org.

The post Watermark Art Center in Bemidji Exhibit Opening: Akinomaage – Teaching from the Earth appeared first on Native News Online.

Published Decemeber 5, 2019

You may be wondering what all the hype over CBD gummies is all about. Or you may already know that CBD is a powerful supplement that can reduce inflammation, anxiety, and chronic pain, and help you get a better night’s sleep.

If you are ready to learn more about the way CBD works to balance every system in your body, and what to look for when you make that first purchase, this article is for you. If you are just looking for the best CBD gummies around, then click here: https://vermafarms.com/collections/cbd-gummies.

How Do CBD Gummies Work?

The endocannabinoid system is a recent discovery in the medical field. Despite the fact that we only became aware of its presence about 25 years ago, the endocannabinoid system is present in every animal, and it has probably been an evolutionary part of development for thousands, if not millions, of years.

The endocannabinoid system is responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body. It is a network of neuroreceptors, neurotransmitters, and enzymes that act as a messenger to every other system. When something happens to throw the body out of balance, the endocannabinoid system kicks in and brings the body back to baseline.

Scientists believe that the endocannabinoid system being out of balance leads to numerous physical and mental health complications. It’s like having a broken control panel. If this system does not function properly, then it cannot tell the other systems in your body how to function properly.

The CBD in CBD gummies helps bring balance to the endocannabinoid system itself. It opens up blocked neuroreceptors and neurotransmitters, and aids communication between systems again. CBD has been shown to have anti inflammatory, analgesic, antiseptic, and neuroprotective properties, all a result of the balancing effects of the supplement.

What Are the Different Kinds of CBD Gummies?

You may be overwhelmed with all the options for CBD gummies on the market today. The CBD gummy industry has exploded over the last year or so, because of the recent legalization of industrial hemp. Since then, new CBD gummy companies have been opening for business on a daily basis. In addition to the endless flavors and varieties, websites and packages have designations like CBD isolate, broad-spectrum CBD, and full-spectrum CBD. The first thing you need to decide when choosing which CBD gummies to go with, is which kind of CBD you want.

CBD Isolate Gummies

Hemp contains dozens of cannabinoids including THC. The extraction process for CBD isolate removes all other cannabinoids and leaves you with pure CBD. CBD isolate is the only kind of CBD that is completely free of THC.

CBD isolate gummies are a good choice if you are hesitant about any exposure to THC, are very sensitive to it, or you are regularly tested for drugs for any reason. It is also a good choice if you are looking to use high doses of CBD without being intoxicated by THC.

Broad-Spectrum CBD Gummies

Broad-spectrum CBD gummies are for anyone who wants to get what’s known as the “entourage effect,” without exposure to THC which can make you feel lethargic or dizzy. The “entourage effect” is the combined effect of all the cannabinoids contained in hemp. Broad-spectrum CBD’s extraction process keeps all the cannabinoids except for THC.

Though some packaging for broad-spectrum CBD gummies makes claims that the product is free of THC, it does still contain a nominal amount. Including other cannabinoids makes it impossible to completely remove all traces of THC. Because of this, you could still fail a drug test. A normal dose of broad-spectrum CBD does not usually contain enough THC to make you intoxicated, but higher doses will expose you to more THC. This increases your chance of intoxication.

Full-Spectrum CBD

Full-spectrum CBD is made with the whole plant. Though industrial hemp used to make CBD only contains 0.3% THC or less, it is enough to cause you to fail a drug test. But if you are not worried about your exposure to THC, then full-spectrum CBD gummies can get you the full, unadulterated “entourage effect”. Just be careful, they may make you drowsy.

How Do I Know If My CBD Gummies Are High-Quality?

Let’s cut through the noise of all the packaging and attention-grabbing graphics on CBD websites. There are some basic quality-markers you need to know before you make your purchase. These quality-markers are not just a measure of whether you are getting a good product or not. They are also a measure of the safety of your CBD gummies, so these are an essential part of your consideration.

Organically and Domestically Grown Hemp

Hemp grown in the United States is absolutely a must. Some companies source their hemp from other countries that may not have strict regulations on their agricultural practices. This can lead to hemp grown in polluted soil, irrigated with polluted water, and sprayed with dangerous pesticides and fertilizers. The USDA has some of the strictest farming regulations in the world. So if the hemp used to make your CBD gummies is domestically-grown, this is a safer option.

Even with hemp grown in the United States, however, you can still end up with CBD extracted from plants that have been sprayed with pesticides and fertilizers. Because hemp absorbs everything in its environment, this can lead to higher concentrations of these chemicals in your CBD. If you ensure your CBD gummies are made with certified organically grown hemp, you are protecting yourself from exposure to harmful chemicals.

CO2 Extraction Process

Some extraction processes damage the integrity of the CBD’s potency and purity by using higher temperatures and adding solvents to the mix. A CO2 extraction process requires no solvents or additives, and it uses lower temperatures. This way, there is more control over the end result, which is the purest most potent form of CBD available.

Third-Party Lab Results

Third-party lab results let you know that what is on the label is accurate. When companies send their product out to be tested by a third-party lab, you can be confident about what you buy.

Final Thoughts

Once you have decided whether you want CBD isolate, broad-spectrum, or full-spectrum CBD gummies, the next step is making sure your gummies are the highest quality available. Lower-quality gummies can be mislabeled or contain harmful chemicals not represented on the packaging.

Verma Farms CBD gummies set the example for how all CBD gummies should be made. The hemp used to make your CBD gummies should be organically grown in the United States. The extraction process should be free of solvents, maintaining the integrity of the CBD being distilled. And finally, you should be able to easily find third-party lab results verifying the potency and purity of your product. Now that you know what you are looking for, get out there and shop!

 

 

The post CBD Gummies: What Are They & What You Need to Know When Purchasing For the First Time appeared first on Native News Online.

Updated: ‘The People’s Tree’ traveled through tribal nations in New Mexico

Future Supreme Court Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis has more than 20 years of judicial experience, including five years on the Whatcom County Superior Court. She spent years working with tribes, and is uniquely familiar with the challenges that tribal and rural communities face. (Photo courtesy of AJ Barse)

Published December 4, 2019

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Gov. Jay Inslee helped usher in a historic day for the Washington State Supreme Court when he appointed Judge Raquel Montoya-Lewis as the first Native American justice Wednesday in Olympia, Washington.

Montoya-Lewis, 51, has more than 20 years of judicial experience, including five on the Whatcom County Superior Court. She spent years working with tribal communities in Washington and elsewhere, and is uniquely familiar with the challenges that tribal and rural communities face. She also worked on issues to protect children from exploitation, and received the Children’s Advocacy Center Community Leadership Award in 2018.

“Because Judge Montoya-Lewis is Native American, many will focus on the historic nature of this appointment,” Inslee said. “And it’s entirely appropriate to do so. But I want the record to show that Judge Montoya-Lewis is the kind of exceptional judge I want serving on the highest court in our state because she is the best person for the job.”

The governor said Montoya-Lewis embodies intelligence, courage, compassion, temperament and fairness — qualities that every judicial officer should possess.

Judge Raquel Montoya-Lewis answers questions from the press after Gov. Jay Inslee announced her appointment to the Washington State Supreme Court. (Office of the Governor photo)

“Whether we spoke to the lawyers who practiced before her, or the judges who reviewed her work — we’ve heard one thing over and over: that she’s exceptional,” Inslee said. “Some even used the word ‘superstar’. Everyone kept telling us she is the best trial judge they’ve ever had.”

Attorney General Bob Ferguson attended Wednesday’s announcement at the Temple of Justice.

“I was honored to attend today’s historic announcement,” Ferguson said. “Judge Montoya-Lewis is a respected jurist who will be a tremendous addition to the court. She also brings a unique perspective on issues facing rural and tribal communities, and I know she will serve our state well.”

Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Richey said he fully supports Montoya-Lewis’ appointment.

“Throughout my career as a prosecutor, I have had the distinct pleasure of being in front of many judges,” Richey said. “While they all have strengths in certain areas, Judge Montoya-Lewis has — without a doubt — set the bar for excellence. I am thrilled Judge Montoya-Lewis is going to be our next Supreme Court Justice.”

Montoya-Lewis said she was honored to join the court and that she looks forward to continuing her lifelong commitment to justice in this new role.

“I have served as a judge for 20 years, in tribal courts and in Superior Court, and I know the struggles and challenges that land people in front of our hardworking judges at every level of our judicial system,” Montoya-Lewis said. “I bring each of the stories I have heard over my career to being a Supreme Court Justice and I hope to honor and serve the people, my colleagues, my ancestors, and my family with the integrity and honor each of them have shown me over these many years.”

Montoya-Lewis takes Chief Justice Mary Fairhurst’s place when she retires from the court in January.

“I’m very excited to have Judge Raquel Montoya-Lewis taking my place,” Fairhurst said. “She follows a long line of wonderful justices to serve in Position No. 3, including Chief Justice William H. Williams, Justice William C. Goodloe and Justice Charles Z. Smith. I’m thrilled to welcome our first Native American to serve on this court. I only regret that I won’t be able to work with her.”

The Supreme Court elected Justice Debra L. Stephens from Spokane to serve as the incoming chief justice.

During Inslee’s seven years in office, he has addressed the longstanding historical inequities of the state judiciary composition. He appointed women to about half of those judicial vacancies, and judges of color to about a quarter of the vacancies to build a judiciary more reflective of the people that it serves. The governor’s last State Supreme Court appointment was Justice Mary Yu in 2014.

Inslee praised Montoya-Lewis, saying she will bring new stories, new voices, and the kind of fresh perspective the state needs to represent Washington communities across the state.

“Judge Montoya-Lewis brings intellectual humility, courage of conviction, and a personal commitment to improving access to justice for all of our communities,” Inslee said. “I look forward to her professional mark in our state history and on our state’s highest court.”

Montoya-Lewis is an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Isleta and a descendant of the Pueblo of Laguna Indian tribes, and will be the only Native American Supreme Court judge in Washington. She has served as chief judge for the Nooksack Indian Tribe, Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, and Lummi Nation Tribal Court. She taught for more than 12 years at Western Washington University.

The post Gov. Inslee Names First Native American to Washington State Supreme Court appeared first on Native News Online.

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Perry Bellegarde says Ottawa has failed to work with First Nations to prepare for a new Indigenous child welfare law coming into force Jan. 1, 2020, according to a letter sent to Indigenous Services Marc Miller Wednesday.

President Trump faces leaders that are "nasty" and "two faced"

Canada's Indigenous Services Minister has pledged to financially support suicide prevention strategies for First Nations communities. The Assembly of First Nations plans to draft a national strategy, while First Nations in Saskatchewan say they're ready to roll out an existing strategy once they get money.

The answer was a resounding yes