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The overall organizational structure of the Washington State National Guard is composed of Task Force Steelhead which involves four task forces providing humanitarian assistance at eleven food banks throughout the state. Task Force Olympic is comprised of approximately 150-200 men and women of the Army and Air National Guard. Their initial mission is to support communities throughout Western Washington through food distribution at Food Banks as well as ensuring beds and respirators reach their intended destination. During Covid-19 Food Banks usage has risen to three times its normal usage. The involvement with the Washington National Guard isn't without problematic issues involving their service. Guard members have to be activated more than a 90 day period to qualify for the GI Bill and retirement benefits. Currently that issue is before the President of the United States who is tasking the members through August and will likely sign that order giving them the benefits they so eagerly deserve. On the issue of Covid-19 mapping all information is provided through the State Department of Health. The Department provides a list of names and telephone numbers off of a computer. They are looking for people that have tested positive, letting them know the results, ask them to self quarantine themselves and asking them who they have been around. Plus, the individuals are provided with a list of services around them so that they can get help. Hobbs indicated that there are a lot of outside actors who are spinning false rumors from Russia and China that are causing some problems. Switching to his Senate role, Steve talked about the calling of a Special Session. Almost impossible to do it on Zoom given the current archaic laws which were written over 100 years ago stating that the State Constitution requires a in person voice vote. Just some of the issues facing the state in the near term. Steve, thank you for your service in the Washington State National Guard, as our Senator from the 44th Legislative District and as a member of our Club. You certainly embody the Rotary theme of "Service Above Self". Thanks so much for your service.
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