WASHINGTON – Nine months into the fiscal year, the federal deficit has topped $1 trillion for the first time.
The imbalance is intensifying fears about higher interest rates and inflation, and already pressuring the value of the dollar. There's also concern about trying to reverse the deficit — by reducing government spending or raising taxes — in the midst of a harsh recession.
The Treasury Department said Monday that the deficit in June totaled $94.3 billion, pushing the total since the budget year started in October to nearly $1.1 trillion.
The deficit has been propelled by the huge sum the government has spent to combat the recession and financial crisis, combined with a sharp decline in tax revenues. Paying for wars in Iraq and Afghanistan also is a major factor.
The country's soaring deficits are making Chinese and other foreign buyers of U.S. debt nervous, which could make them reluctant lenders down the road. It could force the Treasury Department to pay higher interest rates to make U.S. debt attractive longer-term.
"These are mind boggling numbers," said Sung Won Sohn, an economist at the Smith School of Business at California State University. "Our foreign investors from China and elsewhere are starting to have concerns about not only the value of the dollar but how safe their investments will be in the long run."
Government spending is on the rise to address the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression and an unemployment rate that has climbed to 9.5 percent.
GO HERE to read more.
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Monday, July 13, 2009
Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Releases
Incident: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 11 July 2009
Location: 2500 block of W. Zion Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: James A. Poorman, 25, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 11 July 2009 at 10:30 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in the 2500 block of W. Zion Road in Salisbury in an attempt to locate James Poorman, who was wanted on a Circuit Court failure to appear warrant for a trial on marijuana possession. Upon the arrival of the deputy, Poorman was observed standing in the yard and was told he was under arrest by the deputy. The deputy allowed Poorman to secure a vehicle on the property, when the deputy observed that Poorman attempted to conceal in the vehicle what the deputy recognized as marijuana. Poorman was arrested for Possession of Marijuana in addition to the outstanding warrant.
The deputy transported Poorman to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Poorman was detained by the Commissioner in the Detention Center in lieu of $2,500.00 bond on the Possession charge. Poorman was also detained in the Detention Center on $2,500.00 bond that was already set on the Circuit Court Bench Warrant
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Incident: Theft
Date of Incident: 12 July 2009
Location: 200 block of Pine Way, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Timothy B. Wallace, 44, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 12 July 2009 at 10:36 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported bicycle theft that had occurred in the 200 block of Pine Way in Salisbury. Upon meeting with the owner of the bike, it was discovered that earlier in the evening, Timothy Wallace was on the victim’s property talking about the victim’s bicycle. Upon going to Wallace’s residence in the 200 block of Hartford Drive, the deputy observed the victim’s bicycle leaning against Wallace’s residence. During the ensuing investigation, Wallace admitted to taking the victim’s bicycle.
The deputy placed Wallace under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Wallace was detained by the Commissioner in the Detention Center in lieu of $15,000.00 bond.
Charges: Theft under $500
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 12 July 2009
Location: 4800 block of Nutters Cross Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: John C. Unruh, 53, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 12 July 2009 at 6:26 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in the 4800 block of Nutters Cross Road to investigate a reported altercation that had occurred inside the residence. Upon arrival, the deputy met with a female victim who stated that she was attempting to cook dinner when a co-habitant, John Unruh, began throwing potatoes at the victim. John then allegedly grabbed the victim by the throat and also tried to drag her down a flight of stairs. The deputy observed injuries on the victim along with a dining area that appeared to be in disarray, both of which corroborated her account.
The deputy placed Unruh under arrest for the assault and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Unruh was released on Personal Recognizance.
Charges: Assault 2nd degree
Incident: Possession of Marijuana / DUI
Date of Incident: 11 July 2009
Location: Ocean Gateway at Boundary Street, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Raymond Eric Hines Jr., 30, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 11 July 2009 at 2:33 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle operated by Raymond Hines for a traffic violation committed on Nanticoke Road, just south of Rt. 50. Upon contacting Hines, the deputy detected the odor of alcohol emanating from Hines. The deputy conducted roadside sobriety tests on Hines during which a determination was made to place Hines under arrest for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. Upon attempting to place Hines into handcuffs, he ran from the deputy, heading westbound on Ocean Gateway. The deputy chased Hines on foot and apprehended him in the parking lot of the Super Soda after a brief foot chase.
Upon returning to Hines’ vehicle, the deputy located a cigar under the seat of Hines’ vehicle that was filled with what the deputy recognized as marijuana.
Hines was transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Hines was detained by the Commissioner in lieu of $7,500.00
Charges:
Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Resisting Arrest
265 Comments So Far Today
While comments are flying in today, many have been rejected, at least 50% of them. Maybe I shouldn't have put up the post about the curse words because that one has really brought on a ton of curse words, lol.
Then there's the Monica Lewinsky post, well, you can probably guess what that brought in, too funny but not appropriate.
JT must be in a really pissy mood today, maybe no one was around to help him with his shoes and socks and can't get out of the house. I know, celebrate with another Twinkie instead.
Oh well, we're enjoying all of the comments and just to update everyone on the FREE POOL, thank you so much for the kind messages and letters. So far there is one that has topped all others and what brings me the most joy is the letters that come in from others looking out for a friend. I called Billy Hill about the letter and read it to him and quite frankly, (like me) it's tough to make Billy speechless but in this case he was floored.
Keep those letters coming Folks as well as comments.
Then there's the Monica Lewinsky post, well, you can probably guess what that brought in, too funny but not appropriate.
JT must be in a really pissy mood today, maybe no one was around to help him with his shoes and socks and can't get out of the house. I know, celebrate with another Twinkie instead.
Oh well, we're enjoying all of the comments and just to update everyone on the FREE POOL, thank you so much for the kind messages and letters. So far there is one that has topped all others and what brings me the most joy is the letters that come in from others looking out for a friend. I called Billy Hill about the letter and read it to him and quite frankly, (like me) it's tough to make Billy speechless but in this case he was floored.
Keep those letters coming Folks as well as comments.
Obama Chooses Ala Doctor As Next Surgeon General
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama turned to the Deep South for the next surgeon general, choosing a rural Alabama family physician who made headlines with fierce determination to rebuild her nonprofit medical clinic in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
Dr. Regina Benjamin is known along Alabama's impoverished Gulf Coast as a country doctor who makes house calls and doesn't turn away patients who can't pay — even as she's had to find the money to rebuild a clinic repeatedly destroyed by hurricanes and once even fire.
"For all the tremendous obstacles that she has overcome, Regina Benjamin also represents what's best about health care in America, doctors and nurses who give and care and sacrifice for the sake of their patients," Obama said Monday in introducing his choice for a job known as America's doctor.
He said Benjamin will bring insight as his administration struggles to revamp the health care system:
Saying she "has seen in a very personal way what is broken about our health care system," Obama said Benjamin will bring important insight as his administration tries to revamp that system.
GO HERE to read more.
Dr. Regina Benjamin is known along Alabama's impoverished Gulf Coast as a country doctor who makes house calls and doesn't turn away patients who can't pay — even as she's had to find the money to rebuild a clinic repeatedly destroyed by hurricanes and once even fire.
"For all the tremendous obstacles that she has overcome, Regina Benjamin also represents what's best about health care in America, doctors and nurses who give and care and sacrifice for the sake of their patients," Obama said Monday in introducing his choice for a job known as America's doctor.
He said Benjamin will bring insight as his administration struggles to revamp the health care system:
Saying she "has seen in a very personal way what is broken about our health care system," Obama said Benjamin will bring important insight as his administration tries to revamp that system.
GO HERE to read more.
Wicomico County Meeting Time Moving to Front and Center
Thank you Julie Brewington. After lobbying for the Wicomico County Council to move its meeting times from 10AM to the evening, the issue is finally getting some traction thanks to the co-chair of the Lower Shore chapter of Americans for Prosperity.
Ever since December of 2006, when the current council was sworn in, I have lobbied for evening meetings. Councilman Joe Holloway (R-5) has been attempting to get a majority of his colleagues to agree. Thanks to Brewington’s statements at last week’s council meeting, the issue has received multiple mentions in the Daily Times.
The argument given against moving the meeting time, which would allow more working citizens to participate in their local government, is that citizens don’t turn up WHEN meetings are scheduled at night (except for controversial public hearings). Fair enough, EXCEPT …
Holding the occasional meeting in the evening simply won’t help. If all of the meetings, or even half, were moved to the evening AND done so consistently for about a year, the public would then get used to the fact and hopefully start attending. Salisbury council meetings, though poorly attended, still tend to outdraw county council meetings.
Another argument is that requiring department heads to attend evening meetings would cost the taxpayer more. Sorry. Department heads are on salary and shouldn’t be paid more for doing part of their job.
Thanks again Julie. Hopefully, you’ll be more successful than I have been.
McDonald's Serves Up Free Mocha Mondays
How do you take your coffee? How about free?
Stop into a McDonald's between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. today or on any Monday between now and August 3 and get a free sample of their McCafé Mocha.
The fast-food chain will offer either a 7-ounce iced mocha or 8-ounce hot mocha -- but only one per customer, so choose your format wisely.
With such deeply entrenched competitors as Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts and the newly arrived Canadian competitor, Tim Hortons also thirsty for market share, the promotion is McDonald's newest effort to promote its new line of premium espresso drinks to coffee-drinkers nationwide.
McDonald's McCafé line was introduced in early May and includes hot or iced coffee, lattes and mochas, as well as cappuccinos and hot chocolate.
Trash Your MONOPOLY Board Game
Game of Obamopoly
Like it or not, you are a player.....
Like it or not, you are a player.....
The object of the game is to destroy American capitalism by having the government take over everything!
Tokens include a bus, a teleprompter, a sprig of arugula and a waffle iron.
Wanna play? No??? Too bad, you're already playing... and quite frankly, in this game, nobody wins!
Absolutely Fantastic, A Must See Video
The beginning is the sound of rain and thunder. Check this video out.
Down the Mississippi: Barack Obama Effect Ends White Rule In Deep South Town
Tommie 'Tomaso' Brown: 'Obama was a major influence on everybody...he inspired me.'
A tiny Mississippi delta town has elected its first black mayor after the white incumbent, unopposed for 30 years, faced a young challenger inspired by President Barack Obama's feat in winning the White House.
’Kiss my black ass, because we got a black mayor’
GO HERE to read more.
Driver Flees Scene With Child In Tow In DUI Related Crash
Suspect(s): Anthony Picciotti, 44, of Hutchinson Street in Wilmington, Delaware
Resume: Saturday evening, Troopers were called to the area of Kirkwood Highway at Evelyn Drive for a traffic crash.
Witnesses advised a 1997 Lincoln Continental was on Evelyn Drive and turned westbound onto Kirkwood Highway. The Lincoln went onto the sidewalk and struck a utility pole. The driver of the Lincoln got out of his car, obtained a male child from the front passenger seat, and took off on foot back toward Evelyn Drive.
This investigation revealed the driver of the Lincoln was Anthony Picciotti and that the child was his 10-year-old son. After the crash, Anthony went back to a residence on Evelyn Drive and turned the child over to a family friend. He then ran off again by himself. Moments later, assisting Troopers canvassing the area located Mr. Picciotti walking along a wooded tree line in Dunlinden Acres. He was taken into custody without incident and requested medical attention.
A computer check revealed this suspect was wanted by the Court of Common Pleas and also that his driver’s license was currently suspended. The investigating Trooper learned that Picciotti was apparently driving impaired at the time of the crash.
Warrants were completed charging Picciotti with the following offenses: Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Crash, DUI, Driving While Suspended, Careless Driving, Failure to Report a DUI Related Crash, Failure to Provide Information at an Accident Scene, Failure to Provide Insurance Information and Failure to Transfer Title. He committed to the Howard Young Correctional Institute in lieu of $13,550.00 bail.
The child was eventually turned over to his mother.
Wikipedia Says Obama Born In Kenya
Online encyclopedia can't make up its mind on president's birthplace
By Joe Kovacs© 2009 WorldNetDaily
Wikipedia just can't seem to make up its mind about where President Barack Obama was born.
The free, online encyclopedia this afternoon displayed at least two countries the commander in chief may have been born in – the United States and Kenya.
WND documented how the entry for the "Early life and career of Barack Obama" changed numerous times.
At 4:45 p.m. Eastern, Wikipedia said:
"Barack Obama, the current President of the United States, was born on August 4, 1961 in either Honolulu, in the state of Hawaii[1], or Mombasa, Kenya, to Barack Obama, Sr. (1936–1982) (born in Nyang’oma Kogelo, Siaya District, Nyanza Province,[2] Kenya Colony, British Empire
), and Ann Dunham (1942–1995) (born in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas).[3][4] On his mother's side he has a half-sister; on his father's side, Obama has two half-sisters and five surviving half-brothers.[5]"
GO HERE to read and see more.
Daily Times Sports Editor Let Go
During the most recent cuts from the struggling Gannett Publications Staff was Sean Yonkers, Sports Editor of the Daily Times.
Sean is a very nice young man with a Family and the Daily Times chose to keep the College Intern instead. We can only hope Sean finds work in the near future and we certainly wish him, (as well as all the others recently laid off) the very best.
Rather than turning things around and making things better for the Newspaper Industry, the Daily Times seems to simply flow with the national downfall within the Industry. It takles LEADERSHIP to survive, not followers.
There are ways to turn things around but far be it for me to give them any advice as to how to do it. Funny part is, it's working for Salisbury News. They're just to blind to see.
Anyhow, don't hold Sean's working for the Daily Times against him. He's a hard worker and a very honorable guy.
Why Palin Really Resigned
And I can't say I blame her for wanting to get paid...
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — The former fiance of Gov. Sarah Palin's 18-year-old daughter says he thinks he knows why the Alaska governor is resigning _ concerns over money.
Levi Johnston, 19, whose wedding to Bristol Palin was called off earlier this year, says he believes the governor is resigning over personal finances.
Johnston says he lived with the Palin family from early December to the second week in January. He claims he heard the governor several times say how nice it would be to take advantage of the lucrative deals that were being offered, including a reality show and a book.
"I think the big deal was the book. That was millions of dollars," said Johnston, who has had a strained relationship with the family but now says things have improved.
Palin has a book deal, but compensation details haven't been disclosed. The governor has said she is facing more than $500,000 in legal fees.
Johnston made his comments at a news conference Thursday at the office of his attorney, Rex Butler.
Johnston came forward, Butler said, because Alaskans want to know why Palin has decided to resign. She made the announcement last Friday.
source
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — The former fiance of Gov. Sarah Palin's 18-year-old daughter says he thinks he knows why the Alaska governor is resigning _ concerns over money.
Levi Johnston, 19, whose wedding to Bristol Palin was called off earlier this year, says he believes the governor is resigning over personal finances.
Johnston says he lived with the Palin family from early December to the second week in January. He claims he heard the governor several times say how nice it would be to take advantage of the lucrative deals that were being offered, including a reality show and a book.
"I think the big deal was the book. That was millions of dollars," said Johnston, who has had a strained relationship with the family but now says things have improved.
Palin has a book deal, but compensation details haven't been disclosed. The governor has said she is facing more than $500,000 in legal fees.
Johnston made his comments at a news conference Thursday at the office of his attorney, Rex Butler.
Johnston came forward, Butler said, because Alaskans want to know why Palin has decided to resign. She made the announcement last Friday.
source
Princess Anne Town Meeting
Tonight (Monday) at 7 pm
Princess Anne Townhouses
Pine Knoll Drive
Info 410-651-3026
Come to object high property taxes!
Princess Anne Townhouses
Pine Knoll Drive
Info 410-651-3026
Come to object high property taxes!
Bill Reddish Spreading Rumors
This morning on the Bill Reddish Show Bill stated that there is RUMOR going around that someone signed off for the completion of the Salisbury WWTP. This is absolutely untrue and all Bill had to do was make one phone call to Mr. John Pick or the Mayor and he would have settled such rumors immediately, as I did.
The WWTP is NOT complete. In fact, the Construction Company is still working through the "punch out list" but NO ONE has signed off on anything referencing completion. While Bill may no longer have his lengthy show on WICO and has now dropped down to 1/2 hour a day, one would think he'd have plenty of time to go out there and get news. However, I never see him anywhere publicly, not after the election anyway.
So Bill, while you're getting news from the Daily Times and Salisbury News, you might want to concentrate on Salisbury News more and finally give CREDIT for where you get your news because when you do it on your own you only prove that WICO is a follower, not a leader. You can then stop spreading RUMORS about something that after all your years in the business would simply be ridiculous anyway. Oh well, you got what you wanted as we're now talking about you and the Station.
By the way Bill, I'm not the one who heard it. Someone called me and filled me in on what you said. WHEN IN DOUBT, LEAVE IT OUT!
Curse Words
Enough is Enough with the curse words today. I have been rejecting comments like there's no tomorrow this morning from those who feel the need to curse at just about anything and everything.
We have a policy on Salisbury News, no curse words. I personally do not feel simple words like "ass" is a curse word, so I allow it. However, you know what I'm talking about.
So if you're looking around wondering where your comments went, they've been rejected. If you're new to Salisbury News, now you know our Policy.
We have a policy on Salisbury News, no curse words. I personally do not feel simple words like "ass" is a curse word, so I allow it. However, you know what I'm talking about.
So if you're looking around wondering where your comments went, they've been rejected. If you're new to Salisbury News, now you know our Policy.
Salisbury Police Department Press Releases
On July 8, 2009 at approximately 2:14 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to a residence on Poplar St. for the report of a burglary. Upon arrival the officers met with a victim who advised that the below listed four (4) suspects had broken into his residence in an attempt to take currency and a vehicle. The suspects, who were known to the victim, broke into the residence and threatened the victim and his friends. The victim and his friends were able to remove the suspects from the residence where they were located by the officers and taken into custody. There were no injuries.
ARRESTED #1: Lamar Pierre Jones, 17 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #2: Paul Harris Gladden, 16 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #3: Emily Nicole Cantwell, 16 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #4: Amber Lynn Butina, 18 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES (All):
Attempted armed robbery
First degree burglary
First degree assault
Second degree assault
Theft (under $ 100)
Attempted theft (over $ 500)
Wearing and carrying a deadly weapon
DISPOSITION: All released to Central Booking CC # 200900023896
On July 9, 2009 at approximately 6:06 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police were on routine patrol in the area of Snow Hill Road and observed the below listed suspect who the officers knew to be wanted operating a vehicle. The officers attempted to stop the vehicle which resulted in the suspect exiting the vehicle and fleeing the area on foot. The suspect was apprehended and found to be in the possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana and suspected methadone. The suspect was also served with the outstanding warrant.
ARRESTED: Nathaniel David Blaher, 23 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Resisting arrest
Possession of marijuana
Possession of methadone
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia (2 cts)
Obstructing and hindering an investigation
Circuit Court warrant – Violation of probation
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200900024073/200900024074
On July 9, 2009 at approximately 10:30 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Top Ten Store on W. Isabella St. for the report of a disorderly subject. Upon arrival the officers met with a female victim who advised that the below listed suspect had assaulted her with a knife. The suspect was still located on the premises and was taken into custody. The victim was no injured.
ARRESTED: Melvin Eugene Riley, 45 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
First degree assault
Second degree assault
Reckless endangerment
Wearing and carrying a dangerous weapon
Disorderly conduct
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200900024109
Hey, This Is Still AMERICA, Right?
After Obama took Office as President of the United States, things have changed more so than this household can take.
On Friday we received a packet of information as our Grandson goes to Year Round School in Delmar. He has one more week of summer vacation and then he's back to School, so in this packet we received a list of supplies. It starts out in English and then completely switches to Spanish!
The Daily Times spend all day Sunday praising Dr. John Fredericksen for his outstanding work, why didn't they do the article in Spanish then?
Since the Wicomico Board of Education doesn't allow Salisbury News on their computers, I'm confident many of the Teachers are also on vacation and can read this article on their own free time and pass it along. ALBERO is Italian, not Spanish. The rest of the documents came in English, so I just don't get it.
Nevertheless, I wonder how many other parents got the same package? Quite frankly, if the Spanish people living in AMERICA can't read English, get the hell out of America. I'll be certain to take up Spanish before I head off to Spain or Mexico. Until then, (read my lips) this is an AMERICAN Country and we speak ENGLISH here.
To Our Son Kyle Who Heard His Calling And Will Soon Be Heading To Afghanistan
Be safe young man and represent us proud with your Brothers and Sisters in the Marines.
Who Was Michael Jackson?
by Victor Davis Hanson
Tribune Media Services
When Michael Jackson tragically died two weeks ago, millions were shocked. The wonder, though, is not that the troubled pop-music megastar died at the relatively young age of 50 under regrettable circumstances, but that he was able to live as long as he did.
Yet even as headlines continue to dominate the news about his complicated estate, a gargantuan-memorial service in Los Angeles and custody of his kids — and that's no doubt just a fraction of the fallout from his demise — it's clear that even in death the contradictions that fueled his life will become his legacy, as well.
In the days since his passing, friends, biographers and hangers-on have gossiped that beneath the image of a perpetually youthful superstar that Jackson tried so hard to cultivate was in reality a tired, anorexic middle-aged man who'd spent years struggling with prescription drugs.
In truth, almost everything about the Jackson persona proved to be fantasy — an Oz-like projection on the screen powered by a strange fellow behind the curtain desperately struggling with gears and levers.
The kindly and soft-spoken Jackson may have given millions to children's charities and built a child's dream theme park at his Santa Barbara "Neverland" ranch. He even talked in near-childlike fashion. And yet on two occasions, the children's advocate was accused of sexual molestation of boys. He settled out of court in one instance and was acquitted in a court trial on the second, but Jackson strangely said he saw nothing wrong in sharing his bed with minors.
Jackson always wanted to be seen as a Peter-Pan-like innocent. Yet again, his performance videos were sexually charged, as he often grabbed his crotch or strutted about in other lascivious dance moves before legions of underage fans.
He talked much of the importance of family, truth and innocence. But he sadly grew up in a dysfunctional family with an abusive father. Now, questions in turn have been raised of the true parentage of Jackson's own three children.
Jackson was heralded as a path-breaker by the black community. At last week's annual BET awards show, the host, actor and singer Jamie Foxx, exclaimed, "He belongs to us, and we shared him with everybody else." Yet Jackson underwent serial plastic surgeries and pigment-changing procedures to transform his appearance to that of a white person. As Quincy Jones, who produced the legendary "Thriller" album confessed, "He obviously didn't want to be black."
He earned well over a billion dollars during his lifetime, and at one point may have had assets worth a half-billion dollars. But he died owing more than he was worth, with almost no cash on hand. Jackson finally signed on to a marathon 50-show concert stint in London, likely in part to solve his deepening financial woes. But it was an impossible gambit, given his worsening physical condition.
Yet in tragic irony, Jackson's death led to soaring record sales and new merchandising that may make those in his will rich in a way they would never have been were the bankrupt and fading former superstar still alive.
How then will posterity assess Michael Jackson? "Thriller" remains the best-selling record of all time, and a number of others were nearly as successful. His stage magnetism rivaled that of Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. And yet few of Jackson's hits are memorable in a way that dozens of songs of the Beatles or Bob Dylan timelessly continue to reverberate through popular culture.
Jackson had meteoric early success, but, unlike the ageless Rolling Stones, was not able to maintain his earlier pace, or adapt to new tastes and genres. The moonwalking Jackson clearly had the natural dancing ability and brilliant creativity of a Fred Astaire or Gene Kelly, but his pelvic thrusting, crotch-holding gyrations lacked the dignity of both earlier icons and often turned repellant.
In the end, Jackson will be known mostly as a path-breaking marketing genius. His extravagant stage shows and music videos — replete with fireworks, celebrity cameos, animation and special effects — finally overshadowed the music itself. And largely for that reason, he captivated millions of audience-goers in an electronic and video age.
Jackson's quasi-military uniforms, gloved hand, pet chimp and weird habits added to the Hollywood hype. His legacy are the similar though lesser careers of Britney Spears and Madonna — mega-superstars who put on spectacular, sexually charged performances, with elaborate outfits and props, but who cannot compose, sing or act in any memorable fashion.
In the end, Michael Jackson taught other superstars that in today's America, they too could continue to remain famous — for being famous.
Tribune Media Services
When Michael Jackson tragically died two weeks ago, millions were shocked. The wonder, though, is not that the troubled pop-music megastar died at the relatively young age of 50 under regrettable circumstances, but that he was able to live as long as he did.
Yet even as headlines continue to dominate the news about his complicated estate, a gargantuan-memorial service in Los Angeles and custody of his kids — and that's no doubt just a fraction of the fallout from his demise — it's clear that even in death the contradictions that fueled his life will become his legacy, as well.
In the days since his passing, friends, biographers and hangers-on have gossiped that beneath the image of a perpetually youthful superstar that Jackson tried so hard to cultivate was in reality a tired, anorexic middle-aged man who'd spent years struggling with prescription drugs.
In truth, almost everything about the Jackson persona proved to be fantasy — an Oz-like projection on the screen powered by a strange fellow behind the curtain desperately struggling with gears and levers.
The kindly and soft-spoken Jackson may have given millions to children's charities and built a child's dream theme park at his Santa Barbara "Neverland" ranch. He even talked in near-childlike fashion. And yet on two occasions, the children's advocate was accused of sexual molestation of boys. He settled out of court in one instance and was acquitted in a court trial on the second, but Jackson strangely said he saw nothing wrong in sharing his bed with minors.
Jackson always wanted to be seen as a Peter-Pan-like innocent. Yet again, his performance videos were sexually charged, as he often grabbed his crotch or strutted about in other lascivious dance moves before legions of underage fans.
He talked much of the importance of family, truth and innocence. But he sadly grew up in a dysfunctional family with an abusive father. Now, questions in turn have been raised of the true parentage of Jackson's own three children.
Jackson was heralded as a path-breaker by the black community. At last week's annual BET awards show, the host, actor and singer Jamie Foxx, exclaimed, "He belongs to us, and we shared him with everybody else." Yet Jackson underwent serial plastic surgeries and pigment-changing procedures to transform his appearance to that of a white person. As Quincy Jones, who produced the legendary "Thriller" album confessed, "He obviously didn't want to be black."
He earned well over a billion dollars during his lifetime, and at one point may have had assets worth a half-billion dollars. But he died owing more than he was worth, with almost no cash on hand. Jackson finally signed on to a marathon 50-show concert stint in London, likely in part to solve his deepening financial woes. But it was an impossible gambit, given his worsening physical condition.
Yet in tragic irony, Jackson's death led to soaring record sales and new merchandising that may make those in his will rich in a way they would never have been were the bankrupt and fading former superstar still alive.
How then will posterity assess Michael Jackson? "Thriller" remains the best-selling record of all time, and a number of others were nearly as successful. His stage magnetism rivaled that of Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. And yet few of Jackson's hits are memorable in a way that dozens of songs of the Beatles or Bob Dylan timelessly continue to reverberate through popular culture.
Jackson had meteoric early success, but, unlike the ageless Rolling Stones, was not able to maintain his earlier pace, or adapt to new tastes and genres. The moonwalking Jackson clearly had the natural dancing ability and brilliant creativity of a Fred Astaire or Gene Kelly, but his pelvic thrusting, crotch-holding gyrations lacked the dignity of both earlier icons and often turned repellant.
In the end, Jackson will be known mostly as a path-breaking marketing genius. His extravagant stage shows and music videos — replete with fireworks, celebrity cameos, animation and special effects — finally overshadowed the music itself. And largely for that reason, he captivated millions of audience-goers in an electronic and video age.
Jackson's quasi-military uniforms, gloved hand, pet chimp and weird habits added to the Hollywood hype. His legacy are the similar though lesser careers of Britney Spears and Madonna — mega-superstars who put on spectacular, sexually charged performances, with elaborate outfits and props, but who cannot compose, sing or act in any memorable fashion.
In the end, Michael Jackson taught other superstars that in today's America, they too could continue to remain famous — for being famous.
Dinner With The President
Dinner with the President, a modern parable...
Once upon a time, I was invited to the White House for a private dinner with the President. I am a respected businessman, with a factory that produces memory chips for computers and portable electronics. There was some talk that my industry was being scrutinized by the administration, but I paid it no mind. I live in a free country. There's nothing that the government can do to me if I've broken no laws. My wealth was earned honestly, and an invitation to dinner with an American President is an honor.
I checked my coat, was greeted by the Chief of Staff, and joined the President in a yellow dining room. We sat across from each other at a table draped in white linen. The Great Seal was embossed on the china. Uniformed staff served our dinner.
The meal was served, and I was startled when my waiter suddenly reached out, plucked a dinner roll off my plate, and began nibbling it as he walked back to the kitchen.
"Sorry about that," said the President. "Andrew is very hungry."
"I don't appreciate..." I began, but as I looked into the calm brown eyes across from me, I felt immediately guilty and petty. It was just a dinner roll. "Of course," I concluded, and reached for my glass. Before I could, however, another waiter reached forward, took the glass away and swallowed the wine in a single gulp.
"And his brother Eric is very thirsty." said the President.
I didn't say anything. The President is testing my compassion, I thought. I will play along. I don't want to seem unkind.
My plate was whisked away before I had tasted a bite.
"Eric's children are also quite hungry."
With a lurch, I crashed to the floor. My chair had been pulled out from under me. I stood, brushing myself off angrily, and watched as it was carried from the room.
"And their grandmother can't stand for long."
I excused myself, smiling outwardly, but inside feeling like a fool. Obviously I had been invited to the White House to be sport for some game. I reached for my coat, to find that it had been taken. I turned back to the President.
"Their grandfather doesn't like the cold."
I wanted to shout- that was my coat! But again, I looked at the placid smiling face of my host and decided I was being a poor sport. I spread my hands helplessly and chuckled. Then I felt my hip pocket and realized my wallet was gone. I excused myself and walked to a phone on an elegant side table. I learned shortly that my credit cards had been maxed out, my bank accounts emptied, my retirement and equity portfolios had vanished, and my wife had been thrown out of our home. Apparently, the waiters and their families were moving in. The President hadn't moved or spoken as I learned all this, but finally I lowered the phone into its cradle and turned to face him.
"Andrew's whole family has made bad financial decisions. They haven't planned for retirement, and they need a house. They recently defaulted on a subprime mortgage. I told them they could have your home. They need it more than you do."
My hands were shaking. I felt faint. I stumbled back to the table and knelt on the floor. The President cheerfully cut his meat, ate his steak and drank his wine. I lowered my eyes and stared at the small gray circles on the tablecloth that were water drops.
"By the way," He added, "I have just signed an Executive Order nationalizing your factories. I'm firing you as head of your business. I'll be operating the firm now for the benefit of all mankind. There's a whole bunch of Erics and Andrews out there and they can't come to you for jobs groveling like beggars."
I looked up. The President dropped his spoon into the empty ramekin which had been his creme brulee. He drained the last drops of his wine. As the table was cleared, he lit a cigarette and leaned back in his chair. He stared at me. I clung to the edge of the table as if were a ledge and I were a man hanging over an abyss. I thought of the years behind me, of the life I had lived. The life I had earned with a lifetime of work, risk and struggle. Why was I punished? How had I allowed it to be taken? What game had I played and lost? I looked across the table and noticed with some surprise that there was no game board between us.
What had I done wrong?
As if answering the unspoken thought, the President suddenly cocked his head, locked his empty eyes to mine, and bared a million teeth, chuckling wryly as he folded his hands.
"You should have stopped me at the dinner roll," he said.
Obama Born In Africa
Ghana paper calls Africa 'continent of his birth'
WorldNetDaily
An African news site and an MSNBC broadcaster have delivered new references to President Obama's birthplace as being outside of the United States, even as a controversy has developed over a letter purporting to be from the president claiming Kapi'olani hospital in Honolulu as his birth location.
Network correspondent Mara Schiavocampo was reporting on the celebratory atmosphere in Accra, Ghana, immediately prior to Obama's visit to the west African nation today.
Interviewing a person who appeared to be a shop operator, she suggested, "Barack Obama is Kenyan … but Ghanaians are still proud of him."
The video of the report is at this link.
Her report talks about the party atmosphere and the Obama fan clubs who has posted "Welcome home" signs.
GO HERE to read more.
WorldNetDaily
An African news site and an MSNBC broadcaster have delivered new references to President Obama's birthplace as being outside of the United States, even as a controversy has developed over a letter purporting to be from the president claiming Kapi'olani hospital in Honolulu as his birth location.
Network correspondent Mara Schiavocampo was reporting on the celebratory atmosphere in Accra, Ghana, immediately prior to Obama's visit to the west African nation today.
Interviewing a person who appeared to be a shop operator, she suggested, "Barack Obama is Kenyan … but Ghanaians are still proud of him."
The video of the report is at this link.
Her report talks about the party atmosphere and the Obama fan clubs who has posted "Welcome home" signs.
GO HERE to read more.
FRUITLAND CITY COUNCIL MEETING TUESDAY
FRUITLAND CITY COUNCIL
TUESDAY, JULY 14, 2009
AGENDA
STAFF MEETING
7:00 p.m. City Council and staff will meet to review the evening’s agenda in the conference room.
REGULAR MEETING
7:30 p.m.
*Call to Order, Opening Prayer, Pledge of Allegiance
*Adoption of the Minutes:
1. Regular Meeting: June 09, 2009
*Treasurer’s Report, City Manager’s Report, Department Heads’
Reports
7:40 p.m. *Public Hearing: Ordinance 242 - Funding Hayward Avenue
7:41 p.m. Public Hearing: Ordinance 243 - Funding Police Cars/Dump Truck
7:42 p.m. Public Hearing: Ordinance 244 - Funding Water Interconnect
*Unfinished Business:
Approve paid bills. Action item.
New Police Department Building – Chief Phillips
Drug Policy – Approve Proposal – John Mc Donnell
Bennett Middle School
Property Upkeep Ordinance – Set time for Public Hearing
Other ?
*New Business:
Declare Surplus Property – John Mc Donnell/Cooper Townsend
Declare Surplus Property – Joe Derbyshire
Declare Surplus Property – John McDonnell (Admin)
Bid Award Phase Two I & I Project – Amanda Pollack - GMB
Other?
*Public Comment/General Discussion
*Adjournment
The Fruitland City Council will meet at City Hall, 401 East Main Street, on the above date and times in accordance with the State Open Meetings Act. The public is encouraged to attend. For further information call 410-548-2809.
TUESDAY, JULY 14, 2009
AGENDA
STAFF MEETING
7:00 p.m. City Council and staff will meet to review the evening’s agenda in the conference room.
REGULAR MEETING
7:30 p.m.
*Call to Order, Opening Prayer, Pledge of Allegiance
*Adoption of the Minutes:
1. Regular Meeting: June 09, 2009
*Treasurer’s Report, City Manager’s Report, Department Heads’
Reports
7:40 p.m. *Public Hearing: Ordinance 242 - Funding Hayward Avenue
7:41 p.m. Public Hearing: Ordinance 243 - Funding Police Cars/Dump Truck
7:42 p.m. Public Hearing: Ordinance 244 - Funding Water Interconnect
*Unfinished Business:
Approve paid bills. Action item.
New Police Department Building – Chief Phillips
Drug Policy – Approve Proposal – John Mc Donnell
Bennett Middle School
Property Upkeep Ordinance – Set time for Public Hearing
Other ?
*New Business:
Declare Surplus Property – John Mc Donnell/Cooper Townsend
Declare Surplus Property – Joe Derbyshire
Declare Surplus Property – John McDonnell (Admin)
Bid Award Phase Two I & I Project – Amanda Pollack - GMB
Other?
*Public Comment/General Discussion
*Adjournment
The Fruitland City Council will meet at City Hall, 401 East Main Street, on the above date and times in accordance with the State Open Meetings Act. The public is encouraged to attend. For further information call 410-548-2809.
Content Removed
CONTENT REMOVED
Several readers expressed their belief that the content of this post was offensive.
After consulting with several leaders in the area's minority community we chose to remove the post.
Our Apologies,
Fish For Your Lakes And Ponds FISHWAGON
Friends,
Fish Wagon will be back in your area July 22nd, 2009 at Farmers & Planters Company (http://www.farmersandplanters.com/) with a complete inventory of fish for your lakes and ponds. The route’s inventory will include a significant upgrade in our Koi due to the request of many of our customers. Purchases of 1,200 or more fish will be delivered directly to your pond at no additional charge and everything that we sell is with a full replacement guarantee. Pre-ordering is encouraged but not required. We have completed the enhancement of our website at http://www.fishwagon.com/ and invite you to take a look…we welcome your input as we continue to seek opportunities to enhance our service. In addition to more detail about the various species of fish available for stocking, we also have available the complete line of Moultrie Fish Feeders for those of you that wish to further enhance the quality of your pond through supplemental feeding. If we may be of service to you, please call us toll free or email for information regarding locations, dates and times in your area.
Theodore Roosevelt on Immigration
The year is 1907, one hundred and 2 years ago.
Theodore Roosevelt's ideas on Immigrants and being an AMERICAN in 1907.
'In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American...There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language. And we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people.'
Theodore Roosevelt 1907
Every American citizen needs to read this!
Theodore Roosevelt's ideas on Immigrants and being an AMERICAN in 1907.
'In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American...There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language. And we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people.'
Theodore Roosevelt 1907
Every American citizen needs to read this!
Sergeant First Class John C. Beale,Thank A Soildier!
Patriot Guard Riders
Killed in action the week before, the body of Sergeant First Class John C. Beale was returned to Falcon Field in Peachtree City, Georgia, just southof Atlanta, on June 11, 2009 . The Henry County Police Department escorted the procession to the funeral home in McDonough, Georgia. A simple notice in local papers indicated the road route to be taken and the approximate time.
Nowadays one can be led to believe that America no longer respects honor and no longer honors sacrifice outside the military. Be it known that there aremany places in this land where people still recognize the courage and impact of total self-sacrifice. Georgia remains one of those graceful places. Thelink below is a short travelogue of that day's remarkable and painful journey. But only watch this if you wish to have some of your faith in people restored. Please share widely.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH http://blip.tv/play/AYGJ5h6YgmE?
A Life Lost Out of the Spotlight
While a Nation and World Paid Tribute to a Passing Singer, a Small Town Mourned a Young Soldier Killed in Afghanistan
(CBS) Millions around the world will remember the day Michael Jackson died. Martha Gillis will, too - but she'll be thinking of someone else. She shares her Opinion with us now:
My 24-year-old nephew, Brian Bradshaw, died in Afghanistan on June 25, killed by an IED, but you'd never have known it from the national media.
I cannot tell you how that silence added to the pain of losing this bright, funny, thoughtful young man, whom I remember so vividly as a toddler, wandering the house in cowboy boots and hat (and nothing else).
GO HERE to read more.
(CBS) Millions around the world will remember the day Michael Jackson died. Martha Gillis will, too - but she'll be thinking of someone else. She shares her Opinion with us now:
My 24-year-old nephew, Brian Bradshaw, died in Afghanistan on June 25, killed by an IED, but you'd never have known it from the national media.
I cannot tell you how that silence added to the pain of losing this bright, funny, thoughtful young man, whom I remember so vividly as a toddler, wandering the house in cowboy boots and hat (and nothing else).
GO HERE to read more.
Monica Lewinsky Turns 44
Can you believe it?
It seems like only yesterday that she was crawling around the White House
on her hands and knees, and putting everything in her mouth.
They grow up so fast, don't they...?.
A LITTLE GUN HISTORY
In 1929, the Soviet Union established gun control. From 1929 to 1953, about 20 million dissidents, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
In 1911, Turkey established gun control. From 1915 to 1917, 1.5 million Armenians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
Germany established gun control in 1938 and from 1939 to 1945, a total of 13 million Jews and others who were unable to defend themselves were rounded up and exterminated.
China established gun control in 1935. From 1948 to 1952, 20 million political dissidents, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated
Guatemala established gun control in 1964. From 1964 to 1981, 100,000 Mayan Indians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
Uganda established gun control in 1970. From 1971 to 1979, 300,000 Christians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
Cambodia established gun control in 1956. From 1975 to 1977, one million educated people, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
Defenseless people rounded up and exterminated in the 20th Century because of gun control: 56 million.
It has now been 12 months since gun owners in Australia were forced by new law to surrender 640,381 personal firearms to be destroyed by their own Government, a program costing Australia taxpayers more than $500 million dollars. The first year results are now in:
List of 7 items:
Australia-wide, homicides are up 3.2 percent.
Australia-wide, assaults are up 8.6 percent.
Australia-wide, armed robberies are up 44 percent (yes, 44 percent)!
In the state of Victoria alone, homicides with firearms are now up 300 percent. Note that while the law-abiding citizens turned them in, the criminals did not, and criminals still possess their guns!
While figures over the previous 25 years showed a steady decrease in armed robbery with firearms, this has changed drastically upward in the past 12 months, since criminals now are guaranteed that their prey is unarmed.
There has also been a dramatic increase in break-ins and assaults of the ELDERLY. Australian politicians are at a loss to explain how public safety has decreased, after such monumental effort, and expense was expended in successfully ridding Australian society of guns. The Australian experience and the other historical facts above prove it.
You won't see this data on the US evening news, or hear politicians disseminating this information.
Guns in the hands of honest citizens save lives and property and, yes, gun-control laws adversely affect only the law-abiding citizens.
Take note my fellow Americans, before it's too late!
The next time someone talks in favor of gun control, please remind them of this history lesson.
With guns, we are 'citizens'. Without them, we are 'subjects'.
During WWII the Japanese decided not to invade America because they knew most Americans were ARMED!
The purpose of fighting is to win. There is no possible victory in defense. The sword is more important than the shield, and skill is more important than either. The final weapon is the brain. All else is supplemental.
SWITZERLAND ISSUES EVERY HOUSEHOLD A GUN! SWITZERLAND 'S GOVERNMENT TRAINS EVERY ADULT THEY ISSUE A RIFLE. SWITZERLAND HAS THE LOWEST GUN RELATED CRIME RATE OF ANY CIVILIZED COUNTRY IN THE WORLD!!!
IT'S A NO BRAINER! DON'T LET OUR GOVERNMENT WASTE MILLIONS OF OUR TAX DOLLARS IN AN EFFORT TO MAKE ALL LAW ABIDING CITIZENS AN EASY TARGET.
In 1911, Turkey established gun control. From 1915 to 1917, 1.5 million Armenians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
Germany established gun control in 1938 and from 1939 to 1945, a total of 13 million Jews and others who were unable to defend themselves were rounded up and exterminated.
China established gun control in 1935. From 1948 to 1952, 20 million political dissidents, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated
Guatemala established gun control in 1964. From 1964 to 1981, 100,000 Mayan Indians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
Uganda established gun control in 1970. From 1971 to 1979, 300,000 Christians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
Cambodia established gun control in 1956. From 1975 to 1977, one million educated people, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
Defenseless people rounded up and exterminated in the 20th Century because of gun control: 56 million.
It has now been 12 months since gun owners in Australia were forced by new law to surrender 640,381 personal firearms to be destroyed by their own Government, a program costing Australia taxpayers more than $500 million dollars. The first year results are now in:
List of 7 items:
Australia-wide, homicides are up 3.2 percent.
Australia-wide, assaults are up 8.6 percent.
Australia-wide, armed robberies are up 44 percent (yes, 44 percent)!
In the state of Victoria alone, homicides with firearms are now up 300 percent. Note that while the law-abiding citizens turned them in, the criminals did not, and criminals still possess their guns!
While figures over the previous 25 years showed a steady decrease in armed robbery with firearms, this has changed drastically upward in the past 12 months, since criminals now are guaranteed that their prey is unarmed.
There has also been a dramatic increase in break-ins and assaults of the ELDERLY. Australian politicians are at a loss to explain how public safety has decreased, after such monumental effort, and expense was expended in successfully ridding Australian society of guns. The Australian experience and the other historical facts above prove it.
You won't see this data on the US evening news, or hear politicians disseminating this information.
Guns in the hands of honest citizens save lives and property and, yes, gun-control laws adversely affect only the law-abiding citizens.
Take note my fellow Americans, before it's too late!
The next time someone talks in favor of gun control, please remind them of this history lesson.
With guns, we are 'citizens'. Without them, we are 'subjects'.
During WWII the Japanese decided not to invade America because they knew most Americans were ARMED!
The purpose of fighting is to win. There is no possible victory in defense. The sword is more important than the shield, and skill is more important than either. The final weapon is the brain. All else is supplemental.
SWITZERLAND ISSUES EVERY HOUSEHOLD A GUN! SWITZERLAND 'S GOVERNMENT TRAINS EVERY ADULT THEY ISSUE A RIFLE. SWITZERLAND HAS THE LOWEST GUN RELATED CRIME RATE OF ANY CIVILIZED COUNTRY IN THE WORLD!!!
IT'S A NO BRAINER! DON'T LET OUR GOVERNMENT WASTE MILLIONS OF OUR TAX DOLLARS IN AN EFFORT TO MAKE ALL LAW ABIDING CITIZENS AN EASY TARGET.
Gore Boasts: 'Global Governance' Coming With Carbon Tax
Tells conference U.S. responding to warming threat with 'cap-and-trade'
By Bob Unruh© 2009 WorldNetDaily
Former Vice President Al Gore, whose "An Inconvenient Truth" video epistle on the claims of global warming has not weathered recent scientific research, now has promised at a conference in the United Kingdom that the impending virtual energy tax under the U.S. "cap-and-trade" legislation will bring about "global governance."
Gore, who this year famously left his Nashville mansion's driveway brightly illuminated during the "Earth Hour" event that promoted energy savings, was speaking at the Smith School World Forum on Enterprise and the Environment.
He cited the "cap-and-trade" legislation in the U.S. Congress that by President Obama's own estimate would cause utility bills to skyrocket for American consumers.
Those taxes are good, Gore said.
GO HERE to read more.
GO HERE to see the video.
Letter To Barbara Boxer
Letter to Barbara Boxer from Bill Schoonover, Oak harbor, Washington
Here is my final draft to Barbara Boxer. Please give it your widest dissemination. I want the world to know at least one scoundrel who masquerades as a wise solon and a congress in whose hand $trillions are spent without even reading the bills.
Babs:
You were so right on when you scolded the general on TV for using the term, “ma’am,” instead of “Senator.” After all, in the military, “ma’am” is a term of respect when addressing a female of superior rank or position.
The general was totally wrong. You are not a person of superior rank or position. You are a member of one of the world’s most corrupt organizations, the U.S. Senate, equaled only by the U.S. House of Representatives.
Congress is a cesspool of liars, thieves, inside traders, traitors, drunks (one who killed a staffer, yet is still revered), criminals, and other low level swine who, as individuals (not all, but many), will do anything to enhance their lives, fortunes and power, all at the expense of the People of the United States and its Constitution, in order to be continually re-elected. Many democrats even want American troops killed by releasing photographs. How many of you could honestly say, “We pledge our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor”? None? One? Two?
Your reaction to the general shows several things. First is your abysmal ignorance of all things militaire. Your treatment of the general shows you to be an elitist of the worst kind. When the general entered the military (as most of us who served) he wrote the government a20blank check, offering his life to protect your derriere now safely and comfortably ensconced in a multi-thousand dollar leather chair, paid for by the general’s taxes. You repaid him for this by humiliating him in front of millions.Second is you puerile character, lack of sophistication, and arrogance which borders on the hubristic. This display of brattish behavior shows you to be a virago, termagant, harridan, nag, scold or shrew, unfit for your position, regardless of the support of the unwashed, uneducated masses who have made California into the laughing stock of the nation.
What I am writing, Senator, are the same thoughts countless millions of Americans have toward Congress, but who lack the energy, ability or time to convey them. Under the democrats, some don’t even have the 44 cents to buy the stamp. Regardless of their thoughts, most realize politicians are pretty much the same, and will vote for the one who will bring home the most bacon, even if they do consider how corrupt that person is.
Lord Acton (1834 – 1902) so aptly charged, “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Unbeknownst to you and your colleagues, Mr. Power has had his way with all of you, and we are all the worse for it.
Finally Senator, I, too, have a title. It is “Right Wing Extremist Potential Terrorist Threat.” It is not of my choosing, but was given to me by your Secretary of Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano. And you were offended by “ma’am”?
Have a day. Cheers!
Bill Schoonover
Here is my final draft to Barbara Boxer. Please give it your widest dissemination. I want the world to know at least one scoundrel who masquerades as a wise solon and a congress in whose hand $trillions are spent without even reading the bills.
Babs:
You were so right on when you scolded the general on TV for using the term, “ma’am,” instead of “Senator.” After all, in the military, “ma’am” is a term of respect when addressing a female of superior rank or position.
The general was totally wrong. You are not a person of superior rank or position. You are a member of one of the world’s most corrupt organizations, the U.S. Senate, equaled only by the U.S. House of Representatives.
Congress is a cesspool of liars, thieves, inside traders, traitors, drunks (one who killed a staffer, yet is still revered), criminals, and other low level swine who, as individuals (not all, but many), will do anything to enhance their lives, fortunes and power, all at the expense of the People of the United States and its Constitution, in order to be continually re-elected. Many democrats even want American troops killed by releasing photographs. How many of you could honestly say, “We pledge our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor”? None? One? Two?
Your reaction to the general shows several things. First is your abysmal ignorance of all things militaire. Your treatment of the general shows you to be an elitist of the worst kind. When the general entered the military (as most of us who served) he wrote the government a20blank check, offering his life to protect your derriere now safely and comfortably ensconced in a multi-thousand dollar leather chair, paid for by the general’s taxes. You repaid him for this by humiliating him in front of millions.Second is you puerile character, lack of sophistication, and arrogance which borders on the hubristic. This display of brattish behavior shows you to be a virago, termagant, harridan, nag, scold or shrew, unfit for your position, regardless of the support of the unwashed, uneducated masses who have made California into the laughing stock of the nation.
What I am writing, Senator, are the same thoughts countless millions of Americans have toward Congress, but who lack the energy, ability or time to convey them. Under the democrats, some don’t even have the 44 cents to buy the stamp. Regardless of their thoughts, most realize politicians are pretty much the same, and will vote for the one who will bring home the most bacon, even if they do consider how corrupt that person is.
Lord Acton (1834 – 1902) so aptly charged, “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Unbeknownst to you and your colleagues, Mr. Power has had his way with all of you, and we are all the worse for it.
Finally Senator, I, too, have a title. It is “Right Wing Extremist Potential Terrorist Threat.” It is not of my choosing, but was given to me by your Secretary of Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano. And you were offended by “ma’am”?
Have a day. Cheers!
Bill Schoonover
Jack And Charlotte Richards Celebrate Their 50th Wedding Anniversary
Jack and Charlotte Richards celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary on July 24 of this year. They were married in Salisbury Maryland where they lived until 1996 at which time they retired and moved to Florida where they both enjoy traveling and playing golf. Jack was very active in the community, as a vice president of the Salisbury Jaycees and serving on the board of the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce and chairing the Salisbury Festival for 3 years.
Charlotte retired from Barr International in Salisbury. Jack was a Captain with the Ocean City Police Dept and then became an account representative for Atlantic Litho Printing Co.
They have two sons residing in Salisbury, Jeffrey Whaley and Scott Richards