Hero
“Income tax returns are the most imaginative fiction being written today,” said Pulitzer Prize–winning author Herman Wouk. Well, Herman, this year we want to do it properly, which is why we’re grateful for the IRS-certified volunteers at the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide.
These heroes assist folks with low to moderate incomes prepare their tax returns, and best of all, the confidential help is free. What a deal! There’s no sales pitch for anything, and you don’t need to be a senior or an AARP member to take advantage of the service.
For locations, days and hours of operation and a list of important documents you’ll need, visit www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/.
Zero
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) serves as a mainstay in the Zero column, usually for taking law-abiding, undocumented citizens into custody. This week, we delve into their recent activities at Rustic Bakery.
ICE conducted a worker documentation audit of Rustic Bakery’s four Marin cafes and its production bakery in Petaluma. The I-9 audit determined that some workers presented improper employment eligibility documentation.
The business was forced to terminate approximately 20 employees that were unable to deliver corrected papers. Departing workers were given severance pay by the bakery.
“These workers provided key kitchen, bakery and retail services, and were paid a fair and living wage with benefits,” according to Rustic Bakery management.
Until they are able to hire and train new staff, Rustic is offering a limited menu.
ICE hasn’t taken any of the sacked employees into custody at this time, and legal aid and advocacy groups are now working on their behalf.
We urge ICE to spend its time arresting the undocumented criminals and gang members that Trump always whines about and allow law-abiding, hard-working citizens lead their lives without persecution.
.Hero & Zero
