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Thursday, August 27, 2009

VA Will Compensate Veterans For Medical Error


More than 600 mistakenly informed that they had Lou Gehrig’s disease

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs now estimates that more than 600 veterans erroneously received letters telling them they had been diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease, VA spokeswoman Katie Roberts said Thursday.

As a result of the panic the letters caused, the agency plans to create a more rigorous screening process for its notification letters and is offering to reimburse veterans for medical expenses incurred as a result of the letters.

"That's the least they can do," said former Air Force reservist Gale Reid in Montgomery, Ala. She racked up more than $3,000 in bills for medical tests last week to get a second opinion. Her civilian doctor concluded she did not have ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

GO HERE to read more.

Elderly Concerned Over Health Care Overhaul


Just 34 percent of seniors support proposed changes, poll shows

SPRINGFIELD, Va.
- Turns out you can fear a government takeover of health care even if the government already took over your health care.

How else to explain the reservations of seniors like 85-year-old Dee Jollie, who are covered by Medicare, the government health insurance program for Americans 65 and older, yet still have deep concerns about President Barack Obama's proposed health care overhaul?

"I think it'll be government control," Jollie said this week while waiting for her congressman to hold a health care town hall meeting at her upscale retirement home.

GO HERE to read more.

Missing Person: Wicomico Bureau Of Investigations Press Release


INCIDENT: Critical Missing Person
DATE: August 27, 2009
LOCATION: Melson Road, Delmar, Wicomico County, MD

NARRATIVE:
The Wicomico Bureau of Investigations is attempting to locate George FrankChamberlain. He was last seen on August 23, 2009 at 0900 hours at his home which islocated on Melson Road, Delmar, MD. Chamberlain may be operating his 2000 Ford, F-150 truck (X-Cab w/ step-side), dark blue in color. Anyone with information about the location of George Chamberlain or his vehicle should contact the Wicomico Bureau of Investigations, at (410) 548-4898 or the Sheriff’s Office at (410)548-4892.

See our Post from last night HERE.

Staff Kickoff Day For Wicomico County Public Schools 8 a.m. Friday, Aug. 28

More than 2,500 employees and community supporters of Wicomico County Public Schools will gather at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center for a Staff Kickoff Day rally starting at 8 a.m. Friday, Aug. 28.

The James M. Bennett High School Marching Band will play. Speakers include keynote speaker Dr. John Fredericksen, superintendent of schools; Susan Cullen of Delmar Elementary, the 2009-10 Wicomico Teacher of the Year; and Mark Thompson, president of the Wicomico County Board of Education; and Rick Pollitt, Wicomico County Executive. The rally will end with a special musical performance by the school system's rock 'n' roll band, The Edgeucators.

This annual event gives every school system employee - teachers, bookkeepers, principals, cafeteria workers, supervisors, custodians, media specialists and others - an opportunity to come together before the first day of school to get energized for the arrival of students and to hear common messages. Elected officials and representatives of some of the many organizations that serve as partners in public education in Wicomico County have also been invited to attend.

Schools throughout Wicomico County, as well as the Central Office, will be closed early Friday morning so that employees may attend the Staff Kickoff Day rally. Staff members will report to their schools and offices at 10:30 a.m. to continue preparations for the opening of schools on Monday, Aug. 31.

Girl Missing Since 1991 Found Alive; Two Arrested



(CNN) -- A 29-year old woman walked into a northern California police station, saying she was abducted 18 years ago, authorities said Thursday. Two people are being held in connection with the case.

Jaycee Dugard is in good health, el Dorado County sheriff's office said in a statement, but provided no further details.

Meanwhile, in Contra Costa County, another sheriff's spokesman confirmed that that a man and a woman have been arrested in connection with the case but could provide no other details.

CNN affiliates have reported that Phillip Garrido, 58, and his wife, Nancy Garrido, have been charged.

Phillip Garrido is a registered sex offender and listed on the Department of Justice's Megan's Law page because of a previous forcible rape charge.

An officer at the Contra Costa County Jail in Martinez, California, told CNN that the two had been at the jail and both were ordered held on $1 million bail. The officer said the pair was no longer in the jail but that Phillip Garrido had been booked on charges of kidnapping, conspiracy and related offenses. Nancy Garrido was booked on charges of kidnapping and conspiracy.

GO HERE to read more.

Salisbury News Readers Shut Down The Gannett Daily Times

Ladies & Gentlemen, I'm VERY proud of each and every one of you! We asked you to go to the Daily Times Website where they were removing any comments that supported Debbie Campbell and simply remove ALL of the comments and guess what, THEY'RE GONE!

http://www.delmarvanow.com/article/20090827/NEWS01/908270356/In-letters--officials-show-suspicion-that-Campbell-has-police-evidence

These guys must be scratching their head in confusion saying, what the hell just happened. So you see Folks, not only can the Daily Times be controlled, YOU can in fact make a difference.

My hat is tipped to ALL of you for taking them to task. I haven't laughed that hard in many years, thank you. Use the link above to go there yourself and see all 4 pages of comments are wiped out!

I'll bet this gets the Gannett Corporate Office's attention now. Congratulations and good work Folks, I'm VERY proud of you!

DUI A Factor In Noon Time Crash


Location: Northbound Route 13, just north of Lincoln Avenue, New Castle, Delaware, New Castle County

Date and Time: Thursday, August 27, 2009, at 12:28 p.m.

Resume: At approximately noon time today, a crash occurred on Route 13 in the area of Lincoln Avenue.

A 2006 Chevrolet Impala (operated by Alfreda Jakubek, 65, of Yonkers, New York) was stopped in the right lane of Route 13 northbound at a red light.

A 2006 Dodge pick-up (operated by Alvin Foraker, 45, of New Castle, Delaware) approached the Impala from behind and rear-ended same. The Dodge then fled the scene. A New Castle County employee witnessed the crash and followed the Dodge until it was intercepted by officers.

The Lincoln had four occupants in all- including the driver. Two rear-seat passengers were trapped in the vehicle after the crash and were extricated by mechanical means. All four of the car’s occupants were treated at Christiana Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Mr. Foraker was found to have been drinking wine while he was driving. A DUI investigation ensued and Foraker was ultimately transported back to Troop 2 for processing. He was arrested for the following offenses: DUI, Drinking While Driving, No Insurance, Driving While Revoked, Leaving the Scene of an Injury Crash and related offenses. He was eventually released from custody and his court date is pending.

Traffic was impacted in the area for approximately 1.5 hours.

Robbery Probed By Detectives


Location: Sandy Fork Store on Laurel Road (SR 24) east of Laurel

Date of Occurrence: August 27, 2009

Suspect(s): Light skinned Black Male, in his twenty’s, approximately 5’11 to 6’00 tall, thin build, short cropped hair, and freckles on his face. The vehicle was described as a 1990’s model dark tan/ beige Jeep Grand Cherokee with a lighter tan trim panel bearing a Delaware registration.

Resume: On Thursday August 27, 2009 at approximately 10:00 a.m. a light skinned black male entered the Sandy Fork Store, on State Road 24, east of Laurel.

The suspect retrieved a soda from a drink cooler and walked up to the cashier to pay. When the clerk opened the cash register drawer to complete the sale, the suspect reached over the counter and pushed the clerk out of the way. As the suspect reached into the register and grabbed an undisclosed amount of cash, the clerk noticed the suspect was holding a silver handgun.

The suspect fled the store in a tan Jeep Cherokee, displaying a Delaware registration plate. The vehicle was last seen traveling westbound on Laurel Road.

Any one that may have information on this case is asked to call Troop 4 Detectives at (302) 856-5850.

Bernanke Personal Bank Account Struck By ID Theft


WASHINGTON – An elaborate identity theft scheme has reached the highest levels of the U.S. financial system, striking the personal bank account of Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke and his wife.

According to a D.C. police report, Anna Bernanke's purse was stolen last August from her chair at a Capitol Hill Starbucks. It contained her Social Security card, checkbook and IDs.

GO HERE to read more.

World's Smallest Political Quiz

The ORIGINAL Internet Political Quiz

Take the Quiz now and find out where you fit on the political map!

GO HERE to take the short test.

New Posts Below The Top Two Articles

Folks, I have added some new Posts below the top two. I am leaving the other Post up top about Debbie Campbell because it deserves to be read more than anything I've ever posted before. I am offering a $1,000.00 CASH REWARD for anyone who can produce the alleged original and or exact copy of the supposed tape Barrie Tilghman is looking for. CASH, no questions asked.

FIGHT CRIME, NOT OPINIONS Chiefy.

Oh Relax Folks, Barrie & Chiefy Don't Really Bite!


The Daily Times, (desperate to sell papers) delivered yet another BS article today stirring the pot once again and going after Councilwoman Debbie Campbell. A friend called me this morning all upset about it and said, can you just imagine how upset Debbie is right now. I replied, why would Debbie be upset. The only people that are upset is Barrie Tilghman and Chiefy Webster because of the massive landslide win Debbie Campbell had in the last election.

Nah, Debbie has absolutely NOTHING to worry about. Think about it just for a second Folks. IF the Chiefy of Police had ANYTHING on Debbie Campbell, would a respectable Chief of Police go to the Daily Times to help solve an internal case? Come on now, they want to try to win their twisted justice in the Court of Public Opinion, not a Court of Law!

However, try this for an even better comfort zone. Tell me a time, (ANY TIME) since Salisbury News has come onto the scene, situations just like this one didn't come right back and bite them in the ass. Come on now, tell me one time! You can't because it's never happened. I can assure you this one will come back and take a chunk out of their rear ends, but they're bullies Folks! This is how bullies act and this is why there are new laws against bullying. The Daily Times is just as guilty.

Let's look at the history of what the Daily Times printed. By the way, on a side note, it's the Daily Times, (a group of desperate scumbags) you should be most upset with. I don't know how many times you people have to see articles just like this completely set up by Barrie Tilgman and Chiefy Webster in an attempt to destroy some one's reputation. Anyhow, getting back to my point. The tape they're talking about is more than 10 YEARS OLD!!!!!! It was before Chiefy's time! Convenient how the Chiefy wrote his letter to the Mayor, (mentioned in the DT's article) just before she left Office!

Nevertheless, Ed Guthrie was the Chief back when this all went down. Now, all of a sudden the current Chief of Police is concerned because ONE OF WEBSTER'S OWN PEOPLE WOULD HAVE HAD TO STEAL THE TAPE and allegedly give it to Councilwoman Campbell. Some kind of respect and management system you have going there Chiefy. Can you tell us what else is missing or stolen? Any good drugs back on the street, or weapons? Give us some more details about how your own Police Officers like to STEAL from your own Office. Wow, the Daily Times FORGOT to mention that in their article, I wonder why??????

Ed Guthrie was a man's man. He could NOT be controlled by the likes of the one and only female control freak Barrie Tilghman, so she replaced his after he resigned with Chiefy Webster. Tilghman spent ALL of her years putting Department Heads in place, all of which she could 100% control. If you bucked the system, you were fired. If you did not do everything the control freak wanted, you were fired.

So now, out of nowhere, a tape goes missing from the evidence room, (or wherever it was) and Barrie Tilghman is squirming like a junkie desperate for their next fix. What's on that tape Barrie? Ireton doesn't have the stones to tell you this Barrie but I do. This is NOT your City to run any more.

Folks, Debbie Campbell has absolutely nothing to worry about. She doesn't lie and as ALL of you know, her reputation far outweighs Barrie Tilghman's and Chief Webster's any day of the week. While it's a shame the Daily Slobs would print such crap in the hopes of once again bashing the honorable ones, WHO ACTUALLY CARES! So what, if Debbie has a tape! Do YOU actually believe Debbie Campbell would risk having possession of such a tape and lie to the Chief of Police at the risk of being arrested. NO! The Salisbury Police Department, (mainly Chief Webster and Barrie Tilghman) want an excuse to go raid Debbie Campbell's home and search through everything she has, just like JT attempted to do but was caught in the act.

See it for what it really is Folks. It's a scam to make a move BEFORE Chiefy Webster is thrown out. Barrie Tilghman will never get the chance again to pull one of these stunts. They are trying to gain support because they are about to violate just about every single right America provides in this Country. It's not enough that Debbie Campbell serves the people and represents the people. They want to destroy the reputation of an honorable woman who has clearly served the citizens well in the City of Salisbury.

Stand up for Debbie Campbell. Do NOT allow Barrie Tilghman to pull an old stunt and control this City ever again. Oh, and don't forget to cancel your subscription TODAY to the Daily Times. This kind of crap is just too over the top. Barrie, you make me sick to my stomach. Now get in that kitchen and make me a samich!

Stop For Traffic Violation Yields Loaded Handgun


Location: I-95 northbound at the Toll Plaza, Newark, Delaware, New Castle County

Date and Time: Wednesday, August 26, 2009, at 1:46 p.m.

Suspect(s): Stephens Bernard Walker, 51, of Eutawville, South Carolina

On the above date and time, a Troop 6 patrol officer was on I-95 when he observed a 1991 Lincoln Town Car traveling northbound approaching the toll plaza. The vehicle came to a stop and then began to illegally back up. A traffic stop ensued and the officer made contact with the driver- Stephens Bernard Walker of South Carolina.

The Trooper conversed with Mr. Walker and obtained consent to search the Lincoln. A loaded Hi-Point Firearms Model C 9mm handgun was located on the floorboard behind the passenger’s seat. The weapon was within the immediate reach of the driver.

Mr. Walker was taken into custody and transported back to Troop 6 for processing. He was formally charged with Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon and released on a $5,000.00 unsecured bail.

More Evidence Of The Daily Times Yellow Journalism

Click on image to enlarge.
"Joe, I posted a comment around 10am on Delmarva Now and they removed it. Then a short while ago, I posted a reply to someone's comment and they again removed it. BUT...... This time, I saved the screen image for opinions about my comment. The attached image is of my comment during it's short lived public view. Do you think it was out of line? Talk about biased reporting. What you have to consider is if they will go to such efforts to squash any other opinion in this matter, what evidence would they hide or squash in reporting it? That's the message people need to realize!"
This has happened to me every single time I have put up a comment, (under my full name, making me completely liable for what I say) and after numerous phone call to Joe Carmean and Greg Bassett, nothing has been done about it.
The Daily Times stated that IF a comment is taken down, they review it and IF they feel it should go up again they will do so. HA! Yeah, maybe in a few days after no one goes back to their article, that is.
The Daily Times is controlling local politics and without a doubt controlling what is or isn't said in comments on their articles. They are allowing people like JT, MD, GC, BT, AW, LC and others to control the content on comments by giving them an out under their abuse button.
It only takes 3 separate complaints on abuse and the comment is gone. Well, the other side can do the same and destroy their comments all together! I encourage each and every one of you to go there and start hitting the abuse button and have their comments removed as well.
Maybe now they'll come around and make immediate changes to their system. Click on this link and it will take you right to the article with comments. Delete away Folks and have a blast. Show them what you think of their paper.

Laid-Off Workers Eye The Abyss


With 1.5 million set to lose jobless benefits, many don't know how they'll get by

ELKHART, Ind.—
Karen Inbody has just about three weeks to figure out Plan B.

The 58-year-old divorcee has been getting by on unemployment compensation since her layoff in early 2008, but she’s nearly reached the end of her benefits.

And even though she's applied for dozens of jobs, the former rental property manager has come up empty.

“I’d shovel horse poop,” she says wearily. “I haven’t even found one of those jobs available.”

Now, like many others whose unemployment benefits are running out, the Elkhart, Ind., native doesn’t know how she’s going to put food on her table and pay her mortgage.

GO HERE to read much more about this article.

Important Links

Policy Experts Urge Lawmakers To Tackle Delivery System Reform
http://www.ahiphiwire.org/News/Default.aspx?doc_id=390098&utm_source=8/26/2009&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=HiWire_Newsletter&uid=TRACK_USER

Young former Marine confronts US Congressman at Town Hall Meeting:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rRE5UK6NQU&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Etheospark%2Enet%2F&feature=player_embedded#watch-main-area

Health Care? The Government Can't Even Run a Railroad
http://spectator.org/archives/2009/08/26/health-care-the-government-can

'Cruel and neglectful' care of one million NHS patients exposed
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/6092658/Cruel-and-neglectful-care-of-one-million-NHS-patients-exposed.html

ACLU: Spying For America's Enemies
http://www.ibdeditorials.com/IBDArticles.aspx?id=336178554261373

Vive Le French Care?
http://www.ibdeditorials.com/IBDArticles.aspx?id=336178343967257

ACLU: Spying For America's Enemies
http://www.ibdeditorials.com/IBDArticles.aspx?id=336178554261373

Shattered Lives: 100 Victims of Government Health Care
http://www.rightsidenews.com/200908246153/culture-wars/shattered-lives-100-victims-of-government-health-care.html

Md. Seeks To Buy Nearly 1,400 Acres For Hunting


BARRELVILLE, Md. (AP)- The state of Maryland says it is seeking to buy nearly 1,400 forested mountain acres in Allegany County for use as a public hunting ground.

The Department of General Services is negotiating with the Frazee Land Company on a price for the parcel.

Department of Natural Resources officials say they've been trying for a year to obtain the land.

GO HERE to read more from WBOC.

While the state lays off 200 workers and cuts $40,000,000.00+ more from the budget, can someone please tell me why on God's Green Earth the state is willing to pony up the money to buy hunting land?

Salisbury Police Department Press Releases


On August 25, 2009 at approximately 12:56 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Target Department Store for the report of an employee theft. Upon arrival the officers met with store security who advised that the below listed suspect, an employee of the store, had been observed making fraudulent returns and keeping the return credit.

ARRESTED: Juvenile, 17 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES: Theft (under $ 500)

DISPOSITION: Released to guardian CC # 200900029896

On August 25, 2009 at approximately 8:30 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Walmart Department Store for the report of two (2) shoplifters. Upon arrival the officers were advised by store security that the below listed two (2) suspects had been observed by store employees taking merchandise from the store without making any attempts at payment. The merchandise was recovered and returned to the store.

ARRESTED #1: Shelley Lynn Robinette, 23 years of age Elizabeth City, North Carolina

ARRESTED #2: Lisa Michelle O’Quinn, 30 years of age Elizabeth City, North Carolina

CHARGES (both): Theft (under $ 500)

DISPOSITION: Both released to Central Booking CC # 200900029952

On August 25, 2009 at approximately 10:33 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police responded to the Boundless Playground on Broad St. for the report of a trespasser. Upon arrival the officers met with the below listed suspect. The suspect initially gave the officers false identification information, then gave correct information. Once the correct information was received it was found that the suspect was wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant. As the suspect was taken into custody on the outstanding warrant, the suspect assaulted the officers and resisted arrest.

ARRESTED: Kimberly Marie Blanchard, 32 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES:
False statement to a police officer
Disorderly conduct
Resisting arrest
Circuit Court Bench Warrant

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200900029971

FEMA Warns: H1N1 Preparedness Info. For Pregnant Women


From: FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) fema@service.govdelivery.com>

To: Sent: Wed Aug 26 21:59:20 2009

Subject: Citizen Corps News: Flu.gov Webcast: H1N1 Preparedness Info. for Pregnant Women and New Mothers - Aug 27 @ 1 pm EDT

Flu.gov Webcast: H1N1 Preparedness Info. for Pregnant Women and New Mothers – Aug 27 @ 1 pm EDT

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will host a Webcast to discuss how pregnant women and new mothers can prepare for the H1NI flu. Participants include experts from HHS’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as well as other medical professionals. The Webcast will be live on http://www.flu.gov/.

SPEAKERS:
Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Tina Tchen, Director, White House Office of Public Engagement
Dr. Anne Schuchat, Director, National Center for Immunization & Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
Dr. Tony Fauci, Director, National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health
Dr. Laura Riley, Medical Director, Labor and Delivery, Massachusetts General Hospital
Tina Johnson, CNM, Director, Professional Practice and Health Policy, American College of Nurse-Midwives

WHAT: H1N1 Preparedness Webcast

WHEN: Thursday, August 27, 2009, 1 – 2 P.M. (ET)

WHERE: http://www.flu.gov/

TO PARTICIPATE: Join the discussion by sending questions or comments to hhsstudio@hhs.gov.

http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=bWFpbGluZ2lkPTU2MDIwNiZtZXNzYWdlaWQ9UFJELUJVTC01NjAyMDYmZGF0YWJhc2VpZD0xMDAxJnNlcmlhbD0xMjE1NTU4MzE3JmVtYWlsaWQ9cm9iZXJ0Lmtlbm55QGZjYy5nb3YmdXNlcmlkPXJvYmVydC5rZW5ueUBmY2MuZ292JmV4dHJhPSYmJg==&&&102&&&http://www.flu.gov/ is your one-stop website for all the latest information about the flu and the new H1N1 flu virus from the CDC and other to scientists and doctors across the administration.

This news story and other Community Preparedness news can be found on our website at http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=bWFpbGluZ2lkPTU2MDIwNiZtZXNzYWdlaWQ9UFJELUJVTC01NjAyMDYmZGF0YWJhc2VpZD0xMDAxJnNlcmlhbD0xMjE1NTU4MzE3JmVtYWlsaWQ9cm9iZXJ0Lmtlbm55QGZjYy5nb3YmdXNlcmlkPXJvYmVydC5rZW5ueUBmY2MuZ292JmV4dHJhPSYmJg==&&&103&&&http://www.citizencorps.gov/.


Sincerely,

The National Office of Citizen Corps FEMA Community Preparedness Division

SALISBURY IS STILL A “BANANA REPUBLIC”

During the reign of Barrie P. Tilghman the phrase “banana republic” became a fitting euphemism for the City’s treatment of those who object to or criticize Salisbury’s rulers. At this week’s meeting of the City Council it was plain to see why this usage of that phrase remains apropos.

A resident of the realm who attended and rose to speak during the portion of the meeting open to the public for comments was, in an abrupt scenario featuring asinine outbursts by the Council’s President, denied that opportunity. Acting without a motion, Louise Smith declared the meeting adjourned. At this point the Weasel’s effort to prevent the citizen from being heard by others was taken up by Bubba Comegys, who promptly beckoned a policeman, apparently to remove the miscreant if not to arrest the woman.

Even the mayor sought to silence her by declaring that her conduct was unacceptable. The rest of us can only wonder what she might have told us if allowed to speak, and whether we will ever receive the “help” that we were told “is on the way.”

This Message Was Sent To Rick Pollitt Back In 2008

Times are very tight for everyone. Now is the time for all public leaders to be fiscally conservative. Time to show real leadership and cut back on spending. In 30 years I've never laid anyone off. But in these hard times I'm afraid I'm going to need to. Almost all businesses are off by about 25%.

Why is it that almost all public officials don't feel they are doing their job unless they are giving raises or doing feel good projects ? Now is the time to do neither. Doing either of these shows the public you are out of touch. Shows you have no idea the pain they are experiencing.

There is not 1 County department that could not operate with a 10% cut. I'd say almost all departments would operate fine with a 15 or 20% reduction in their budget. Make these dept. heads earn their money. Make them operate efficiently. None of the departments are run anywhere near as efficient as a private business needs to operate. Show the citizens of Wicomico County you hear them. Show them you understand what they are going through. Show them you know how to cut government spending and cut waste. Show them you remember why you were elected.

Don't be confused...
Spending money does not make you a good leader. Raising taxes does not make you a good leader.

Problem with all branches of government is in good time with money flowing in they spend , spend, spend. Leaders think the gravy train will never end. Then it does as it always does. There is no money in reserve for bad times. No savings. Uh oh ! Now no one knows what to do....except RAISE TAXES. This is not good leadership. No business can operate this way. Why does our government think it can ? Show real leadership. Run our government like a real business. Efficiently!

The Daily Times refused to publish it.

Instead they replied by saying the following:

I could print Pollitt's comments alone if they were re-written in third person, and if the issues raised in the original comments could be made more explicit in the response. But it would seem easier for our readers to understand if printed in a
question-and-answer format. I had hoped for more distinct questions that Rick would be answering, but this communication would not lend itself well to that kind of breakdown. So I am appealing to (not sure whether one or both of you is actually the author) the author of this communication for permission to print (preferably with name, or it will have to be heavily edited) this along with Mr. Pollitt's responses.
I look forward to hearing from you on this matter.

Susan Parker
Community Conversations Editor
The Daily Times

Editors Note: The original message was sent to the County Executives Office and forwarded to the Daily Times. Let me state for the record, my hat is tipped to Rick Pollitt for being so open as to forward it to the Daily Times in the hopes of allowing the citizens to know their concerns are exposed to the public. My disappointment is within the Daily Times for refusing to publish it unless it fit their criteria/agenda. It should also be noted that I have removed the names of the individuals involved in this correspondence.

Maryland And Delaware Sacrifice At Battle Of Brooklyn 233 Years Ago

Joe:

Outside the Wicomico Civic Center there is a plaque that goes unnoticed by many Delmarvans. On August 27, 1776 Many soldiers from Delaware and Maryland gave up their lives in a battle that we lost to the British at Brooklyn. One Maryland group charged British forces that outnumbered them five times so that the rest of the Continental Army could escape. Because of their bravery, General Washington gave the order that Maryland could fly their flag at the same height as the United States flag. During the battle, 261 soldiers from Delaware died and 256 soldiers from Maryland died. Take note today to see how many public displays of flags reflect General Washington's order and also how many do not know it even exists.

Phil Webster

P.S. This is an article that I wrote on the subject of Maryland and Delaware's contribution to the Battle of Brooklyn. If you would like to use it, you may.

The Sacrifice of Delaware and Maryland at the Battle of Brooklyn

During the first part of July, 1776 most of the Continental Congress was meeting in Philadelphia. The Declaration of Independence was written during that time period. John Jay and others of the New York delegation were in New York. They had to deal with the pressing problem of 82 British ships of the line off the shores of New York City.

The British army had already engaged the American militia in 1775 in the Boston region (Lexington and Concord). The British military leadership decided to go for New York. If they could capture New York and take the Hudson River, they could sever the colonies into two parts and win the war. In August, they struck and landed British marines similar to what was seen at Normandy in World War II. American troops were outnumbered and easily defeated.

On August 22, the British landed with 15,000 troops. The American forces under George Washington (General Israel Putnam of Bunker Hill fame was in charge of the Brooklyn section) only numbered 8,000. The British added to their superiority by landing about 5,000 Hessians. At the time of the battle, British forces numbered over 30,000. Severely outnumbered and out-trained, the Americans were no match for the British. It could have been all over for the American cause at this point. The Maryland and Delaware battalions gave up their lives so that the rest of the army could retreat.

With 400 Marylanders against a force of 2,000 British led by Lieutenant Colonel James Grant of the (and they were being reinforced in addition to the 2,000) the leaders Sterling and Gist made a daring decision. The Marylanders charged into the rain of British fire. Sterling led six charges into swelling British reinforcements and Cornwallis’ light cannon. The Marylanders’ sacrificial bravery allowed the rest of the Continentals in the field to escape across the Gowanus Creek and live to fight another day. Maryland lost 256 men and Delaware lost 261 men on that day. A Worcester company lost two-thirds of its men.

“The scene of the conflict was within a mile of the American lines, and wilst

Smallwood was hastening to their aid [Smallwood had been assigned to a court martial hearing], Stirling prepared to make a last effort to check the advance of the enemy and give time for a portion of his command to make good its retreat. For this purpose, he selected four hundred men from the Maryland battalion, under Major Gist, placed himself at their head, and, having ordered all the other troops to make the best of their way through the creek, advanced against Cornwallis’ brigade. As they drew out between the two bodies of the enemy, it was thought by the lookers on from the camp, that they were about to surrender, but as with fixed bayonets they rushed to the charge upon the overwhelming force opposed to them, fear and sorrow filled every heart, and Washington himself wrung his hands, exclaiming, ‘Good God! What brave fellows I must this day lose.’ Five times this little band charged upon the powerful forces of Cornwallis; and each time driven back, again gathered their energies for a fiercer assault, until at last upon the sixth, the heavy column of the British reeled under the repeated shocks and began to give way in confusion.

“But in the very moment that victory seemed within their grasp, Grant’s brigade [British] assailed them in the rear, and fresh troops, the Hessians of De Heister, came to the aid of Cornwallis in front. Already outnumbered more than ten to one, with their ranks thinned by terrific slaughter, and worn down by long fighting, these devoted men could no longer make head against their foes. A portion, with Lord Stirling at their head, surrendered themselves prisoners of war; while three companies, animated by the most determined valor, cut their way through the crowded ranks of the enemy, and maintained their order until they reached the marsh, where, from the nature of the ground, they were compelled to break, and escape as quick as possible to the edge of the creek. This desperate conflict gave time to the remainder of the brigade to make good its retreat across the marsh and swim the water, bringing with them twenty-eight prisoners. A heavy cannonade from four field pieces, was kept up by the enemy upon the retreating troops, and a strong column of Hessians advanced to attack them in the marsh, where they must have all been cut off, as their guns were already wet and muddy, but for the unlooked for fire of the reinforcements from Smallwood, on the opposite shore, which drove the pursuers back to the main land where they formed some six hundred yards distant, while the remnant of the Marylanders swam the creek. Several of them, as well as some of the Pennsylvanians and Delawares, were drowned in the attempt, or perished in the marsh. Capt. Thomas’ men aided in bringing over the exhausted survivors.

“Stirling’s and the Marylanders’ gallant action allowed the rest of the Americans remaining in the field to escape across the Gowanus Creek and survive. Only seven men crossing the Gowanus were lost through drowning. But the Marylanders had sacrificed themselves for the sake of the army. Out of barely 400 men, 256 lay dead in front of the Old Stone House. Over a hundred others were wounded and/or captured. Only Gist and nine others managed to regain the American lines.”[1]

Gallagher, although exact casualty numbers cannot be determined, gave the following:

Huntington’s 7th Continentals (Connecticut) 199

Smallwood’s Maryland Regiment 267 (including 11 killed earlier)

Atlee’s Pennsylvania Militia 27

Hazlet’s Delaware Battalion 261

Miles’ Pennsylvania Rifle Regiment 209

In total, a confirmed 1,120 soldiers lost their lives in the Patriot cause that day[2]

At 9:00 A.M. General Washington watched five ships, Roebuck, Asia, Renown, Preston and Repulse headed for the East River with a favorable tide and wind. Those ships would have sealed off the retreat. They would also bring firepower and possibly more troops. As David McCullough states in 1776:

“Then miraculously the wind had veered off to the north. The ships, after tacking to and fro, trying to gain headway, at last gave up. Only the Roebuck could ‘fetch high enough’ to threaten the battery at Red Hook with a few random shots.”

Remember the Roebuck, it will be a thorn in the side of Delmarva throughout the War for Independence. There will be sightings on our rivers in the Delaware and Chesapeake Bays.

That day, Tuesday, August 27 saw British casualties at 59 killed and 267 wounded. According to General Howe [British], Rebel losses were over 3,000; 1,000 were prisoners and 2,000 Americans had been killed, drowned or wounded. British General Grant stated in a letter to General Harvey: “If a good bleeding can bring those Bible-faced Yankees to their senses, the fever of independency should soon abate.”[3] American estimates were 300 killed and over 1,000 taken prisoner.

This same Grant had made a speech at the House of Commons saying that he could beat the Americans with 5,000 soldiers.[4]

When Washington was informed of the sacrifice of the Maryland and Delaware groups, he wrung his hands and said: “Good God, what brave fellows I must this day lose!” The British General Howe did not follow up the attack immediately and waited a few days. A two day nor’easter storm hit the area on Wednesday and Thursday (August 28 and 29). Calm hit the area about midnight on Thursday. The continual storm kept the British ships out of the area.

Major Mordecai Gist and nine others made it back to the American camp the next morning. They were the only ones of the Marylanders to have made it back safely.

On the night of August 29th and the morning of the 30th, Washington called on the Marbleheaders under John Glover and the 27th Massachusetts to lead a retreat by boat across the East River. They would join up with the main body of the American forces under Henry Knox at the foot of Manhattan Island. The skill of the Marbleheaders cannot be overlooked. The British could hear what was going on even if they could not see. Some estimates say they made about 11 trips that evening. They had to paddle extremely quietly. When they got far enough away from shore, they had to stroke powerfully to fight the current in the East River. Getting horses, cannon, supplies and men across was no easy matter.

General McDougall, in charge of the embarkation, wrote General Washington that the evacuation would not be possible that night. The rain stopped and at 11:00 PM of the 29th, the wind died down.

A divine fog set in so that the American forces could retreat. If there had been a storm, circumstances would have been different. The Americans would not have been able to take their heavy guns across because the small boats would have sunk with heavy wake. If the weather had been clear, the British ships would have seen them and had a shooting gallery massacre.

When dawn came, there were still many Americans in the trenches. An eyewitness account (Major Ben Tallmadge) relates: “a very dense fog began to rise [out of the ground and off the river], and it seemed to settle in a peculiar manner over both encampments. I recollect this peculiar providential occurrence perfectly well, and so very dense was the atmosphere that I could scarcely discern a man at six yards distance.”[5] The fog remained until the last boat, with Washington in it, left. When it lifted, the shocked British ran to the shore and fired their guns at them, but the Americans were out of range. The only people captured were some petty thieves who were trying to rummage through the Continental Army’s leftovers. God’s Providence was looking over our weak army and allowed us to keep fighting another day. The evacuation on the 29th and 30th was also made possible by the sacrifice by the brave Delaware and Maryland battalions on the 27th who sacrificed their lives so that the struggle could go on.

Most battlefields are left alone in a sort of sacred remembrance to those who died on the field. People will go out and see Gettysburg, Manassas, Antietam, Valley Forge, Yorktown, etc. and remember their sacrifice. Brooklyn is not in the American psyche as a place of remembrance but it should be. The city grew up all around the battleground and streets and buildings mark the site now. One has to work hard to visualize the scene nowadays. There is a monument to the Maryland and Delaware battalions that fought there. Further reading on the subject can be found in a book entitiled “The Battle of Brooklyn, 1776” by John J. Gallagher.

Thank You Phil!

PRICELESS

Today's Wildlife Photo

Courtesy of Scott Phoebus

Brooke's Transplant Update


Hi everyone. This morning is Day +5 from Transplant. Brooke has been having a rough couple of days since I wrote last. I’m going to try to get this done while she is still sleeping ( 9:45 am) and before the doctors come in to examine her.

Monday 8/24:

Started the morning with meds and mouthcare (never a pleasant experience but must be done 3x’s a day). Ryan, her OT, came in shortly afterwards. Brooke has enjoyed working with Ryan the past couple of weeks but initially Mon morning she needed a lot of encouragement to participate due to the pain and weakness in her legs (she has not wanted to get out of bed). But Ryan was able to get her motivated and out of bed and she wound up having a good session with him. Throughout the day her heart rate has been increased (around the 130’s) so they are keeping an eye on it. She continues to have, as a result of the Mucositis, vomiting, diarrhea and pain in her mouth and stomach. We Skyped (video call on the computer) with Daddy tonight which really made Brooke happy! Thanks Stacy for setting that up for us before we left!

Tues 8/25:

Miss Sarah (child life specialist & Brooke’s best buddy here) is back from being at the Ronald McDonald Camp for the past week (WooHoo)! Boy was Brooke happy to see her! She had OT with Ryan again in the morning and PT with Kat in the afternoon. She did pretty well and seemed to enjoy PT but needed a lot of rest breaks between exercises. She is getting morphine pretty much every 4 hours, while she is awake, to help with pain in her legs and from the Mucositis. Her platelet count was only 9,000 so she had a platelet transfusion first thing in the morning. Her heart rate Tues was running around the 150’s.

The Team (Attending, Fellow & NP) just came in. In spite of how Brooke seems to be doing to me, they continue to be very pleased with how well she is doing. All of the issues that she is having are to be expected and she is actually doing much better than most kids at this point of transplant. She actually has a WBC (white blood cell count) today – only 0.1 but it’s a start. Her Hemoglobin count this morning is 8.5 so they said she will probably have a blood transfusion tonight or tomorrow. Her platelet count is 25,000 so she will probably get a platelet transfusion Thursday morning. For all you blood and platelet donors out there thank you so much from the bottom of my heart! Brooke has needed probably well over 20 transfusions since she was diagnosed. You really are saving lives and truly heroes! They are going to put her on a PCA (Patient Controlled Analgesic) or as I call it a morphine pain pump (low dose continuous morphine with the ability to give her an instant extra hit of it when needed) today and they think this will be a big help.

Well, it’s now 10:35am and Brooke is starting to wake up (my free time is officially over). Now go hug your kids and tell them how much you love them and praise God for all your blessings!

God Bless,

Amy

"I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth....The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him and delivers them" (Psalm 34:1,7).

Salisbury News Gets Picked Up By Another Major Player

Hi Joe,

My name is Nadia. I’m Associate Editor of &$%@!. *&%$@! is a place where people come together to read diverse opinions and discuss international issues. Our contributors include journalism students, professors, and bloggers like you who are interested in reaching a global audience.

As editor, I seek out and highlight the best opinion online. Our goal is to bring together a variety of voices on a range of topics and I think your view from ^%#!*&@ is really interesting and should be heard across the globe.

I loved your blog, Sbynews, and I’d encourage you to submit your articles to %*&#@!. I believe it would be an asset to the topics currently being discussed on our site and we would love to see a strong opinion such as yours.

You can do so by registering and then submitting the article here.

I'd also love to discuss some sort of syndication agreement with you so that your articles can continue to get the exposure they deserve.

Thanks for your time,

Associate Editor
*&#*@!.com
55 Broad Street
New York, NY 10004

Hello Joe,

Thanks so much for your response.

To fill you in what we are looking for: It's pretty straight forward. You don’t have to worry about posting your articles personally because we do all the work. However, it would also be great if you wanted to publish original articles on our site in addition to those we will add from your blog.

We publish a portion or an entire article on our site, with your name, the sites name, and a prominent link back to your site. We could also place a link to any books or columns you write as well.

From your %$#@! account you can see what articles have been published, as well as add/edit/delete them if you wish. If you have any issues with this please let me know.

And if you’re not happy with the relationship, just email me and I'll take every article off. Please let me know if this is something that you would be interested in. I look forward to hearing from you.

ABOUT DRINKING WATER

The following will probably amaze and startle you..

One glass of water shuts down midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% of the dieters studied in a University study.

Lack of water is the #1 trigger of daytime fatigue.

Preliminary research indicates that 8-10 glasses of water a daycould significantly ease back and joint pain for up to 80% of sufferers.

A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen or reading.

Drinking 5 glasses of water daily decreases the risk of colon cancer by 45%, plus it can slash the risk of breast cancer by 79%, and one is 50% less likely to develop bladder cancer.

Are you drinking the amount of water you should every day?

(No kidding, all of the above are true...)

Of course, too much water may have strange side effects.










Not Above The Red

Reading The Baltimore Sun yesterday and I find myself insulted. Normally, I am insulted by the editorial page, but this one was a first. In the world of punditry where people make stupid comments on both sides of the aisle and at any given time, I actually found myself insulted by what Patrick Moran, director of AFSCME was quoted as saying in the paper this morning regarding state employees facing layoffs and furloughs.

From The Baltimore Sun:

"The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, the largest state worker union, decried the proposal, saying O'Malley shouldn't balance the budget "on the backs" of workers. Still, union director Patrick Moran said the furlough plan is preferable to layoffs, which would have been "unthinkable."

I do think that the union is correct in that O'Malley shouldn't have used state employees to balance the budget. In fact, I'll join House Minority Leader Tony O'Donnell from Southern Maryland saying that the Governor should not have took his time in analyzing the budget, as he did in the early part of his term. He also should not have made lofty promises which lead to pushing a large tax hike in hopes of funding these dreams, only for it to go bust as we are seeing now.

Outside of that, I have one question for Mr. Moran, what makes a state employee more special than me? For the record, I am not wishing ill will on state employees, I don't like to see ANYONE lose their job (unless it's a bad politico who was voted out, which means they would just return to their day job full-time, so they are not technically unemployed.) I know sometimes we like to romanticize state employees as public servants, but the government runs on the same money that the private industry does. Yes, government can print their own money, assuming that they really want to make inflation bad.

As some of you know, I have been personally affected by this economy. I was blessed enough to been able to transition into a regular full-time job with a different company in a two week span after having my pay and hours cut, originally. My industry did not receive a bailout, nor a stimulus. The broadcast industry has been slimming down for months and a lot of my friends in general have been having a hard time in this economy, yet Mr. Moran is of the belief that layoffs of state employees are unthinkable?

Again, I do not want anyone to lose their job, but at the same time, you have to use common sense. If you cannot afford to pay for it, you can't buy it, which is what is happening in the private industry over these past few months. The economy is recovering, but with no thanks to the federal government. Remember, the stimulus only helped banks and governments get through their budget year until 2010.

Mr. Moran does not realize that NO ONE is immune from layoffs, paycuts (which I took this year) any of the other squeezes that is due to the sluggish economy.

P. Kenneth Burns is the editor of Maryland Politics Today. He lives in Baltimore County. His email is kburns@themdnews.com.

(cross-posted)

Don Rickles On Dean Martin Roasts: Bob Hope

The Older Crowd

A distraught senior citizen
phoned her doctor's office..
'Is it true,' she wanted to know,
'that the medication
you prescribed has to be taken
for the rest of my life? '
Yes, I'm afraid so the doctor told her .

There was a moment of silence
before the senior lady replied,
'I'm wondering, then,
just how serious is my condition
because this prescription is marked
'NO REFILLS'.'
*********************************
An older gentleman was
on the operating table
awaiting surgery
and he insisted that his son,
a renowned surgeon,
perform the operation.

As he was about to get the anesthesia,
he asked to speak to his son.
'Yes, Dad, what is it?'

'Don't be nervous, son; do your best
and just remember, if it doesn't go well,
if something happens to me,
your mother is going to come and
live with you and your wife.'
*******************************
Aging:
Eventually you will reach a point
when you stop lying about your age
and start bragging about it.
*************************
The older we get, the fewer things
seem worth waiting in line for.
************************
Some people
try to turn back their odometers.
Not me!
I want people to know 'why' I look this way.
I've traveled a long way
and some of the roads weren't paved.
********************
When you are dissatisfied
and would like to go back to youth,
think of Algebra.
*****************************
You know you are getting old when
everything either dries up or leaks.
*************************
One of the many things
no one tells you about aging
is that it is such a nice change
from being young.
**********************
Ah, being young is beautiful,
but being old is comfortable.
**********************
First you forget names,
then you forget faces.
Then you forget to pull up your zipper.
It's worse when
you forget to pull it down.
***************************
Long ago
when men cursed
and beat the ground with sticks,
it was called witchcraft...
Today, it's called golf.
*********************

High Court Flattens Highlands

Posted by John Lang

Maryland’s highest court has ruled the 113-home Highlands subdivision next to the Grasslands Plantation outside Chestertown cannot be built as planned.

The Court of Appeals ruling Tuesday held that Queen Anne’s planners blundered through their own appellate process. It remanded the case back to the Circuit Court for Queen Anne’s, ordering it to vacate the decision of the county’s Board of Appeals and to instruct it to conduct its proceedings “consistent with this opinion.”

That opinion stated that it is always up to a developer to prove that his subdivision meets requirements of the county’s comprehensive plan – and it’s not necessary for the neighbors to prove otherwise.

Said the court: “We hold that the Board erred in imposing the burden on the adjacent landowners.”

The case was argued for Grasslands Plantation Inc., the home and experimental conservation project of Harry Sears, by attorney Philip W. Hoon. It is another significant win for Hoon before the Court of Appeals, which in 2002 upheld his briefs that kept Wal-Mart from building a Big Box store in Chestertown.

This ruling applies only to phase one of the Highlands subdivision, some 50 residential units on 64 acres. The second phase, not yet applied for, would have, as envisioned, led to 113 homes on the 275-acre property.

The land, between Round Top Road and Rt. 544 and abutting Grasslands, is owned by Frizz-King Enterprises, LLC.

Frizz-King’s counsel, Jeffrey Thompson, challenged testimony that the area is predominantly rural. He noted that the proposed subdivision would be adjacent to the 900-lot Chester Harbor subdivision.

Thompson contended that Highlands was “in the immediate vicinity of substantial commercial development, including the three largest car dealerships in the area.”

Without noting that two of those dealerships are now dead as the Deusenberg, Hoon countered that the Highlands entrance on 544 is more than a mile away from Rt. 213, and the dealer lots are another long way down the road from that intersection.

Harry Sears’ dogged case against Highlands was supported by the Chester River Association, the Queen Anne’s Conservation Association and also the State of Maryland.

The Maryland Department of Planning had complained in 2005 about approvals given Highlands by the Planning Commission and by the previous clutch of county commissioners.

It wrote its concern “is that the county is not using its zoning and related land use tools to protect the State’s investment of public funds in preservation, which is a fundamental Certification requirement.”

The challenge to Highlands also included oral and written testimony by Dr. Eileen McLellan, former Chester Riverkeeper, who said the subdivision broke state code and was “incompatible with the county’s Comprehensive Plan policy to keep rural lands rural and preserve agricultural lands. . .”

She contended, “The agricultural parcel proposed for subdivision is not located in an area designated for growth.”

The Court of Appeals did not say yea or nay about that. It simply said, that from this point, Queen Anne’s planners have to start requiring the developers to show their compliance with the planners’ codes.

At day’s end, Hoon noted the case had dragged out more than five years and he’d lost on all three previous adjudications down the line. But with this ruling, he said, “there is no question that Harry Sears’ vision, perseverance and tenacity have been the foundation and the catalyst for it to have occurred.”

He said he felt his client’s efforts are of “lasting benefit to the citizens of Queen Anne’s County who want their land use laws and Comprehensive Plan to be administered fairly and properly.”

Source: The Chestertown Spy.

'08 Race Worker Held In Damage To Colorado Democratic HQ

One of two people suspected of shattering 11 windows Tuesday morning at the state Democratic Party headquarters has an arrest record and a history of helping a Democratic political candidate, public records show.

Police said that about 2:20 a.m., 24-year-old Maurice Schwenkler, now in custody, and an at-large accomplice took a hammer to the picture windows displaying posters touting President Barack Obama and his health care reform efforts.

Early Tuesday, Democratic Party chairwoman Pat Waak said the damage to her building in Denver's art district was a consequence of "an effort on the other side to stir up hate." She tempered her statement after Schwenkler's political history was revealed.

"What I've been saying is there is a lot of rhetoric out there from both sides of the spectrum," Waak said. "That's what's been disturbing to me. People are saying a lot of things not appropriate for civil discourse."

For weeks, people on both sides of the health care debate have rallied across the country.

Schwenkler is charged with criminal mischief and is to make his first appearance in Denver County Court today.

He is accused of doing an estimated $11,000 in damage and could face a felony conviction.

GO HERE to read more.

MARYLAND LAW ENFORCEMENT LAUNCHES ANNUAL CHIEFS’ CHALLENGE CAMPAIGN


Law Enforcement Officials Seek Community Participation in Lifesaving Initiative

Maryland State Police Salisbury Barrack will join more than one hundred law enforcement agencies across the state in an effort to educate the public on the lifesaving and injury-reducing benefits of safety belt/child seat use. Additional attention will focus on the reduction of aggressive driving and driving while impaired. This campaign will take place from May through December 2009.

The Maryland Chiefs of Police, Sheriffs, Campus Safety Directors, and Maryland State Police Barrack Commanders challenge their law enforcement personnel to design community-outreach programs and events, to recruit community partners, and to conduct enhanced educational and enforcement initiatives. In Wicomico County, state and local law enforcement officials will be conducting an aggressive driving campaign, entitled the Smooth Operator Program. This enforcement initiative will be from September 6 to September 19, 2009.

"Imagine A Litter-Free Delaware"

Fifth Annual "Imagine A Litter-Free Delaware" Clean Up Day To Be Held Saturday, September 26, 2009

Raindate Sunday, September 27, 2009

Dover
-- The Delaware Department of Transportation announces that it will host it's Fifth Annual "Imagine A Litter-Free Delaware" Clean Up Day on Saturday, September 26, 2009. DelDOT has designated this as a statewide cleanup day when everyone is invited to come out to clean Delaware's roads, highways and community areas. This is also the day when everyone should stop and consider what a litter-free Delaware would look like, and do what they can to make our state and our world cleaner and healthier.

It's also a great day for Adopt-A-Highway volunteers and/or Adopt-A-Bike Path volunteers to do one of their annual clean ups. Businesses, citizens, and homeowners are also being asked to ensure that trash is well contained, to pick up debris blowing around their property and to step outside to sweep a sidewalk, pick up sticks, or rake up some leaves.

In addition, Secretary of Transportation Carolann Wicks is requesting that DelDOT maintenance forces pay special attention to cleaning Delaware's roadsides during the week of September 28 to October 2, 2009. So you'll see DelDOT crews out in force too!

If interested, register on our Web site, www.deldot.gov, under Hot Topics or by contacting the Office of Public Relations at 302-760-2080 or 1-800-652-5600. The deadline for registration is September 18, 2009. No telephone registrations please. There is no fee to participate, just a desire to have fun!

Of course, be sure to think "Safety First!" Anyone cleaning roadways should visit the nearest DelDOT district office to obtain safety information, safety vests and trash bags during the week of September 21-25, 2009. Following the cleanup, participants should either dispose of the trash themselves (i.e., via household trash pick up, landfill, etc.), or place it near a highway sign for DelDOT to pick up. If you need DelDOT to remove the trash bags, please call the nearest DelDOT district office to request DelDOT to remove them as soon as possible.

The rain date for the event will be Sunday, September 27, 2009.

AFP Invites All To 9/12 Rally In Washington, D.C.


Hello AFP'ers!

What a great meeting we had Tuesday night! About 90 people came out to Adam's Ribs to get involved and we were very impressed. Much has been happening in our communities, our state, and our country and it's great to see so many engaged and willing to DO something about it. You can read about the meeting here: http://monoblogue.us/2009/08/25/a-growing-prosperity/

The next thing on our agenda is the 9/12 Rally in Washington DC.

For information on what's bound to be a huge event, click here: http://912dc.org/agenda/

AFP has secured a bus to take us up for the day. We are asking for $35 per seat (or more if you choose) and we will make sure there is water and snacks on the bus. It's going to be a long day so we may consider getting a meal on board for everyone IF we have enough money.

We need volunteers for the refreshment committee. That would mean you get the water, ice, cooler and food and get it to the bus. Any takers?

Anita Chandler is selling some great Americans For Prosperity Maryland TV shirts for $10. It would be cool if we could all wear them that day. Please contact Anita Chandler bkanita@verizon.net if you are interested in purchasing a t-shirt.

Currently, we have more people interested then capacity of the bus. We may try to get a second bus if interest demands it, but confirmed reservations requires payment in advance. We have a bus with a 50 person capacity. We currently have 16 seats reserved on a 50 seat bus and 53 or so people who have said they are interested. So you see this has to be first come first serve. The drop dead deadline is September 7th.

The bus will leave at 6am from Boscov's at the Centre at Salisbury. We may make a stop in Cambridge if we have people there.

If you wish to purchase a seat(s) Please contact Ed Nelson at ednelson@verizon.net or 410-860-2824.

Please see the flyer attached for details.

See you there!

AFP, Lower Shore

Two Year Old Sings Lord's Prayer

GUNS YOU OWN TO BE ITEMIZED ON YOUR 2009 TAX RETURN

There he goes again, another "Right" trying to be appropriated by obama.....

Time to contact your Congressmen and let them know where you stand on this.

Tony Passaro
From an NRA Endowment Member:

Guns you own to be itemized on your 2009 tax return Please read below and take action with your representatives.Senate Bill SB-2099 will require us to put on our 2009 1040 federal tax form all guns that you have or own. It may require fingerprints and a tax of $50 per gun

This bill was introduced on Feb.. 24. This bill will become public knowledge 30 days after it is voted into law. This is an amendment to the Internal Revenue Act of 1986. This means that the Finance Committee can pass this without the Senate voting on it at all.

The full text of the proposed amendment is on the U.S.

Senate homepage,http://www.senate.gov/ You can find the bill by doing a search by the bill number, SB-2099. You know who to call; I strongly suggest you do. Please send a copy of this e-mail to every gun owner you know http://www.opencongress.org/bill/111-h45/text

Congress is now starting on the firearms confiscation bill. If it passes, gun owners will become criminals if you don't fully comply.

It has started. Very Important for you to be aware of a new bill HR 45 introduced into the House. This is the Blair Holt Firearm Licensing & Record of Sale Act of 2009. Even gun shop owners didn't know about this because the government is trying to fly it under the radar. To find out about this - go to any government website and type in HR 45 or Google HR 45 Blair Holt Firearm Licensing & Record of Sales Act of 2009. You will get all the information. Basically this would make it illegal to own a firearm - any rifle with a clip or ANY pistol unless: It is registered -You are fingerprinted -You supply a current Driver's License -
You supply your Social Security # -

You will submit to a physical & mental evaluation at any time of their choosing -

Each update - change or ownership through private or public sale must be reported and costs $25 Failure to do so you automatically lose the right to own a firearm and are subject up to a year in jail. -

There is a child provision clause on page 16 section 305 stating a child-access provision. Gun must be locked and inaccessible to any child under 18. -They would have the right to come and inspect that you are storing your gun safely away from accessibility to children and fine is punishable for up to 5 yrs. in prison. If you think this is a joke - go to the website and take your pick of many options to read this. More and more people are becoming aware of this. Pass the word along. Any hunters in your family pass this along. This is just a "termite" approach to complete confiscation of guns and disarming of our society to the point we have no defense - chip away a little here and there until the goal is accomplished before anyone realizes it. This is one to act on whether you own a gun or not.

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c111:H.R.45:

http://www.opencongress.org/bill/111-h45/show

http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-45

Dems Plan Hundreds Of Reform Rallies

By: Chris Frates

Faced with a souring public mood on health care reform, Democrats and their supporters are launching a national grassroots push to show lawmakers that the majority of Americans still support overhauling the system.

Reform supporters are planning to hold more than 500 events between Wednesday and when lawmakers return to Washington Sept. 8, ranging from neighborhood organized phone banks to professionally staffed rallies with hundreds of people.

The Democratic National Committee and its grassroots arm, Organizing for America, are helping to organize the effort along with the Health Care for America Now, a group pushing to create government-run insurance plan.

“In these last few weeks of recess we want to demonstrate the energy, passion and commitment that the American people have to health insurance reform so that when members return after Labor Day they know that they can turn their attention to getting this done because they have the backing of the American people,” said DNC spokesman Brad Woodhouse.

Supporters have their work cut out for them. Many lawmakers were thunderstruck over the August recess by the anger and outrage expressed by their constituents in town hall meetings across the country. And in poll after poll, support for reform has eroded throughout the month.

But Democrats and their allies insist that the majority of Americans still support reform and have organized the grassroots campaign to buck up lawmakers as they get ready to head back to Washington. They are correct, we just do not want the Government to create a new monster for us to deal with....

A health-insurance-reform-now bus will travel the country starting Wednesday and anchor events in 11 cities: Phoenix, Albuquerque, Denver, Des Moines, Pittsburgh, Raleigh, Charlotte, Milwaukee, St. Louis, Indianapolis and Columbus, Ohio.

But the talk of broad health insurance reform does not mean that progressives have backed off their push for a government-run insurance option. The LESS GOVERNMENT OVER THE PEOPLE people are not backing off either....

“We want members of Congress to get back to work and pass reform that means something. We need affordable care. We need real insurance regulation. And we need a strong public health insurance option,” said HCAN spokeswoman Jacki Schechner. “It’s doable and we expect it to get done now.”

Funny


Bob Hope Christmases With The Troops

Summer Of Discontent


The politics of charisma is so Third World. Americans were never going to buy into it for long.

By FOUAD AJAMI

So we are to have a French health-care system without a French tradition of political protest. It is odd that American liberalism, in a veritable state of insurrection during the Bush presidency, now seeks political quiescence. These "townhallers" who have come forth to challenge ObamaCare have been labeled "evil-mongers" (Harry Reid), "un-American" (Nancy Pelosi), agitators and rowdies and worse.

A political class, and a media elite, that glamorized the protest against the Iraq war, that branded the Bush presidency as a reign of usurpation, now wishes to be done with the tumult of political debate. President Barack Obama himself, the community organizer par excellence, is full of lament that the "loudest voices" are running away with the national debate. Liberalism in righteous opposition, liberalism in power: The rules have changed.

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