DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Troopers Arrest Three Suspects Involved In A Rash Of Robberies In New Castle County
Location: Shell Gas Station, 3932 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday, January 19, 2010 at or about 7:25 p.m.
Suspects:
Marvin J. Poore, 19, 2400 block North Jacqueline Dr, Wilmington, DE
Blake R. Marsh, 21, 2400 block North Jacqueline Dr, Wilmington, DE
Jeffrey M. Moore, 22, Elkton, MD
Resume:
Delaware State Troopers have nabbed three men suspected in a series of armed robberies in New Castle County.
Yesterday at 7:25 p.m. Poore walked into the Shell Gas Station located at 3932 Concord Pike, Wilmington and confronted a clerk with a handgun and demanded money. As Poore was fleeing the scene a state trooper was in the area and saw Poore fleeing on foot. After a foot chase in the neighborhood behind the gas station Poore was taken into custody after a brief struggle with the trooper. A weapon and the money taken in the robbery were recovered at the time Poore was apprehended.
Troopers also located a “get-a-way” car in the neighborhood which was occupied by Marsh and Moore. All three men were suspects for the following robberies that the state police investigated:
Wah Yuan Restaurant, 2705 Philadelphia Pk., Claymont, 010310
Lena's Nail Salon, 2803 Philadelphia Pk., Claymont, 010610
7-11 Store, 2100 Foulk Rd., Wilmington, 010610
BP/Dunkin Donuts, 1923 Pulaski Hwy., Bear, 010810
Gulf Express, 3310 Philadelphia Pk., Claymont, 011210
China Inn Restaurant, 2308 Concord Pk., Wilmington, 011210
Seasons Kitchen, 505 Basin Rd., New Castle, 011210
7-11 Store, 1800 Naamans Rd., Wilmington, 011510
Papa John's Pizza, 2114 Marsh Rd., Wilmington, 011710
Exxon Station, 1801 Foulk Rd., Wilmington, 011810
In addition the Newark Police Department is charging the three suspects for their involvement in an armed robbery at the Dunkin Donuts, 1142 Elkton Road on January 5 and then again on the 18th.
The New Castle County Police Department is also investigating the possibility that the three men are involved in crimes they are investigating.
All three men were charged by the state police with multiple counts of robbery, weapons charges and conspiracy.
STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY ON THE PASSING OF PATRICIA HUGHES
“My thoughts, and the thoughts and prayers of all Marylanders, are with the family of Patricia Hughes on this very difficult and sad day.
“Anyone involved in public service in Maryland has seen Patricia’s devotion to her family – her husband of nearly 60 years and their two children – and to the preservation of Maryland’s natural and historical treasures. As a teacher, she believed in the dignity of every individual, and that every person has potential that we, as a community, have an obligation to help unlock.
“Her life and legacy serving her family and our State touched the lives of thousands of Marylanders and reminds us all that a life lived for others is the greatest of gifts.
“We will miss Patricia greatly.”
Found Dog
Hey Joe,
I work over at the new Bennet High School construction site, and found this dog wandering the site. The dog is quite large, possibly a mastiff type dog. He was limping and knowing how cold it gets I brought him home with me. He is definitely someone's pet. He knows commands and listens fairly well. He didn't have a collar or tags of any kind. I am attaching a picture of him with this email hoping you would be able to post something up. If he is somebody's they can contact me at 443-416-5333.
Thanks,
Nick Miller
BREAKING NEWS: SHOOTING IN SALISBURY
Don't Miss Our 6:00 News Program Tonight
U.S. Senate Candidate Eric Wargotz Works The Brown Campaign In Mass.
Eric Wargotz took time out of his busy schedule to make the trip up north to Massachusetts to lend a hand in the Brown Campaign over the past few days and came home victorious. Republicans truly stepped it up a notch for this election and clearly made a positive difference. Let's hope we can see this same momentum for republicans throughout the Country.It's what You can do for Your Country. Badabing!
Big Jim Ireton Makes The Big Time On CNBC Today
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Millsboro Man Arrested On Burglary Charges
Location:
28000 block of Sloop Ave. Millsboro, Delaware
DATE and TIME:
Monday January 18, 2010 12:25 A.M.
Victim(s):
60 year old male from Millsboro
Defendant(s):
Bruce E. Revel-51 of the 26000 block of Old Landing Millsboro
Charge(s) and Bond Information:
Burglary 3rd
Theft
Criminal Mischief
Revel Released on $3,500 unsecured bond
Resume:
Delaware State Police investigated a burglary complaint in the 28000 block of Sloop Ave. Millsboro. The burglary occurred on January 18, 2010 around 12:25 A.M. in the morning.
A State Police investigation revealed that Bruce Revel was seen leaving the victim’s driveway in a two toned Chevy pickup truck early Monday morning by the victim. The victim followed Revel’s vehicle and observed various items in the bed of the truck resembling his property. The victim followed the pickup for a short distance however after losing site returned to his residence. The victim then was able to confirm his suspicions and discovered an air conditioning unit, lawn mower and copper tubing as missing.
The State Police contacted the suspect and through its investigation was able to link Bruce Revel to the crime. Revel was later charged with the above listed offenses and released on $3,500 unsecured bond.
Seaford Man Facing Assault And Weapons Charges
26000 block of Line Road Seaford, Delaware
DATE and TIME:
Occurred Saturday January 16, 2010 9:00 P.M.
Reported Tuesday January 19, 2010
Victim(s):
56 year old female (spouse) Sustained a hand bruise
Defendant(s):
Raymond M. Cook-56
26000 block of Line Road Seaford, Delaware
Charge(s):
Assault 3rd degree
Terroristic Threatening
Interference with Placing a 911 Call
Menacing
Criminal Mischief
Possession of a Destructive Weapon
Resisting Arrest
Bond Information:
Currently being held however bond information is unavailable as well as the photo.
Resume:
On Tuesday January 19, 2010 Delaware State Police received an anonymous call regarding a domestic that occurred on Saturday January 16, 2010. Delaware State Police responded to the 26000 block of Line Road Seaford and contacted the 56 year old female victim.
State Police learned that on Saturday January 16, 2010 around 9:00 P.M. Raymond M. Cook came home allegedly drunk and disorderly and began pulling items out of their refrigerator creating a disturbance. Cook then turned to the victim and gestured with his fingers the shape of a gun and advised he would do harm to the victim. The victim attempted to call 911 for police service when Cook began to chase her around the residence. Cook grabbed the victim’s hand and took the phone away. Cook next broke the phone rendering it useless. Cook then removed the victim from the residence and locked her outside. The victim later was able to gain access back into the residence without further incident.
State Police on Tuesday January 19, 2010 contacted Raymond Cook at his residence. Cook at the time was driving a tractor and refused commands of officers to exit from the tractor. Cook had to be physically removed and taken into custody.
State Police later discovered Cook had guns in his residence one of which was a sawed off shotgun illegal in the State of Delaware. Cook was later arrested on the above listed offenses.
Lost Cat
Hi, my name is Leon and I’m lost. I’m a gentle, but shy 10year-old male trying to find my way back home. Please call
my mom at (408) 470-0986. I know she’s worried about
me.
· Last seen night of 1/12/2010 in Aspen Drive
WBI Needs Your Help UPDATE!!!!
FOUNDWBI needs help with identifying the witness pictured is the attached photo. He was in the Barnes and Noble Store in Salisbury on 1/15/10 at 9:19 am. He is the older gentleman in the black and blue jacket. Please contact WBI at 410-548-4898.
UPDATE: Joe thanks and as you may have just read we now have him identified thanks to your site. Found in 10 minutes, not too shabby!
GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY TO TAKE LIVE CALLS, EMAILS FROM MARYLANDERS TONIGHT
The Governor will broadcast tonight live at 7pm from the Maryland State House in Annapolis.
Viewers can email questions to askthegovernor@mpt.org or call live at 1-800-926-0629.
GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY FORMALLY SUBMITS FY11 BUDGET
ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 20, 2010) – Governor Martin O’Malley will formally submit the FY11 budget today, closing the state’s deficit with more than $1 billion in budget reductions and maintaining fiscal responsibility by remaining with spending affordability guidelines for the fourth straight year. The FY11 budget brings total spending reductions under the O’Malley-Brown Administration to $5.6 billion and more than 3,500 state positions eliminated.
Today, Governor O’Malley released an open letter to the people of Maryland and legislative leadership outlining the budget proposal, the tough decisions made to maintain fiscal responsibility, and the more than $1 billion in budget reductions to balance the FY11 budget in the most challenging economic times since the Great Depression.
January 20, 2010
The Senate of Maryland
The Honorable Thomas V. “Mike” Miller, President
The Maryland House of Delegates
The Honorable Michael E. Busch, Speaker
The Citizens and Families of Maryland
Dear Mr. President, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the General Assembly, and Fellow Marylanders:
Over the course of the last three years – in the face of the most serious economic challenges faced by our country in several generations – we’ve been able to work together to restore fiscal responsibility to our state government. While the decisions we have made have not always been easy, choosing fiscal responsibility has allowed us to protect our families and small businesses, create the conditions for economic growth by creating and saving jobs, and it has allowed us to make real progress on priorities like public education, college affordability, health care, public safety and the environment.
I am pleased to submit for your consideration the State of Maryland’s FY2011 Operating and Capital budget. This is the fourth balanced budget that I have submitted to the Maryland General Assembly that has come in under the spending affordability guidelines. Like last year’s budget that grew at a negative rate, the FY2011 proposed budget grows at a negative affordability rate of minus 2.9%.
By choosing to strategically reform and reduce the size of our state government, we have already reduced state spending by $4.6 billion in the last three years. With today’s budget proposal, we bring that total to $5.6 billion. Today, for the first time in at least 40 years, state general fund spending is lower than it was four years ago.
Because of these tough decisions, we are one of only seven states to maintain a Triple A Bond Rating, a seal of fiscal responsibility certified by all three major rating agencies.
Our state government is more accountable and transparent to the people it serves. Our rate of job growth was better last year than all but two other states and our housing market has stabilized. With our well educated work force, our public and private research facilities, our vital small business sector, and a host of other assets, we are in a better position than our counterparts in other states to move forward from recovery to prosperity.
As the national economy slowly begins to climb back, our challenge for this fiscal year and beyond is to continue making the tough choices which will allow our families to come through this recession even stronger – and to create the economic conditions that will allow us to continue creating jobs, protect our families, and strengthen our middle class and small and family owned businesses and farms.
As I submit the FY 2011 budget I am mindful of the difficult decisions ahead as we continue to weather this global economic downturn, but I am confident that this proposed budget will help create jobs and grow our economy in the near-term and strategically position our state for long-term economic growth and prosperity.
Thank you,
Martin O’Malley
Governor
The Governor’s presentation on the FY11 budget is available here.
The full FY11 Budget Highlights document is available here.
Salisbury Police Department Press Release
On January 16, 2010 at approximately 2:20 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police arrested the below listed suspect on an outstanding warrant charging the suspect with the possession of CDS on January 1, 2010. On that date, during a traffic stop, the suspect was found to be in possession of suspected cocaine, prescription medication, and related paraphernalia.
ARRESTED: Nathanial David Blaher, 23 years of age, Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Possession of cocaine, Possession of xanax, Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201000002332
On January 17, 2010 at approximately 11:00 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police were on routine patrol in the area of Maryland Avenue and Camden Avenue and conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by the below listed suspect for traffic violations. During a check of the vehicle, the officers located a quantity of suspected marijuana inside of the vehicle. The suspect was arrested and a search of the suspect, incident to arrest, revealed a quantity of suspected “crack”/cocaine on his person.
ARRESTED: Wyand Odell Lehman, 54 years of age, Laurel, Delaware
CHARGES: Possession of cocaine, Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201000002446
On January 18, 2010 at approximately 5:12 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Giant Food Store on South Salisbury Boulevard for the report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival the officers met with store employees who advised that the below listed suspect had been observed by employees taking food from the store without making payment.
ARRESTED: Matthew Gregory Miller, 35 years of age, No fixed address
CHARGES: Theft (under $100)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201000002615
On January 19, 2010 at approximately 12:05 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Walmart Department Store on North Salisbury Boulevard for the report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival the officers met with store security who advised that the below listed suspect had been observed by store employees taking property from the store without making payment. The property was recovered and returned to the store.
ARRESTED: Michael James Lawley, 38 years of age, Dover, Delaware
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 100), Trespassing
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201000002725
On January 20, 2010 at approximately 2:09 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to a residence on Mt. Hermon Road for the report of a home invasion. Upon arrival the officers met with the below listed suspect, who represented himself as the victim of a home invasion at the residence. Further investigation by the responding officers revealed that there was no home invasion, and that the suspect was involved in a domestic argument and altercation.
The suspect was taken into custody and was found to be in possession of a quantity of suspected cocaine and related paraphernalia.
ARRESTED: Hurley William Spence, 29 years of age, Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: False statement, Possession of cocaine, Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201000002848
Elderly Woman Victim Of Home Invasion
http://cambridgedailybanner.md.newsmemory.com/
Home invasion investigated
HURLOCK — On Jan. 14 deputies from the Dorchester County sheriff ’s office responded to 4815 Williamsburg Church Rd. for a reported home invasion.According to Sheriff James W. Phillips Jr., upon arrival, the elderly female occupant of the residence advised that two unknown black males armed with a small black handgun had forced entry to her residence. Once inside they forced her to the floor where one of the suspects armed himself with a knife from the kitchen and held it to her neck while the other suspect ransacked the residence. The victim was not injured in the attack.
The description of the two suspects was limited to two black males wearing ski masks. The investigation is continuing. The sheriff ’s office was assisted by the Maryland State police.
New York Times To Charge For Articles Online
Paper will use a metered system, free to a certain number of articles
NEW YORK - The New York Times says it will charge readers for full access to its Web site starting in 2011, a risky move aimed at drawing more revenue online without driving away advertisers that want the biggest possible audience.
After months of deliberation that other newspapers also have been undertaking, the Times said Wednesday it will use a metered system, allowing free access to a certain number of articles and then charging users for additional content.
The price has yet to be disclosed.
GO HERE to read more.
WHAT DO TRASH CANS AND LAND FOR PARKING HAVE IN COMMON?
Trash cans should be bought, if needed, and the Civic Center may really need another 5 acres, and possibly more, for parking. But, the price that was paid in the first instance and proposed to be paid for the parking area is not appropriate.
In the case of the cans, no discussion is necessary – simply go online or visit a store. The land at the old “Salisbury Mall” opposite the Civic Center is not that simple, but it is not really a complex matter to examine the real estate market. A tract very desirable for development, the “Hearne Farm,” recently went for about $80,000 per acre at foreclosure, bought by the mortgage holder. Several lots at the Centre at Salisbury are on the market (but have not sold) for $225,000 to 235,000 per acre. The land at the old mall is not worth anything close to that – probably not even $100,000 per acre – but the County is seriously proposing to pay three times that amount.
It appears that the County is the only prospective buyer for the land at its “fair market value,” which means that value is not very great, because the only other likely buyers would be speculators looking to flip it for a profit and unwilling to pay full value. And there are other factors that reduce its fair market value – the mall owner wants to have a clause in the deed that would prevent the property from being used in competition, and there is uncertainty about the storm water runoff requirements.
The truly disturbing aspect is that Mr. Pollitt and a majority on the County Council refuse to insist upon a fair price for the property, but want to pay a grossly excessive price for it because the County has the funds. They tell us that the State requires doing the deal at the proposed price, but it is difficult to accept the notion that there would be any objection if the property were bought for a lower price, or for the same total sum, about $1.5 Million, the County got more than 5 acres of land. If the mall property is worth $100,000 per acre, which seems generous in today’s market, that’s enough funding to acquire the full 15 acres that Mr. Pollitt feels is needed for more parking.
There is a significant difference in the two episodes because of the action and largess of Judge Donald Davis. In the case of the parking lot land there would be nobody ready, willing and able to reimburse the public if the County proceeds to pay about $1 Million too much of the people’s money to purchase that land.
Today's Survey Question
Would You Like To See A Daily 6:00 News Broadcast 5 Days A Week Here On Salisbury News?Conan's O'Brien's $40 Million Muzzle
It looks like Conan O’Brien isn’t getting a golden parachute, but a golden muzzle. Is it worth it? The (for now) Tonight Show host has gotten a lot of mileage—and improved ratings—out of poking fun at NBC, et al, over the mess about moving the show’s time slot.
And I admit watching Conan skewer his employers and colleague/competitor Jay Leno has been part of the great fun in watching Conan of late. But what will happen when he can’t do that anymore?
It looks like NBC will pay Conan O’Brien $40 million to walk away from The Tonight Show because of Conan’s refusal to move the time of the show to 12:05 am. One of the apparent stipulations of the deal with NBC is that Conan refrain from bad-mouthing the network (and I assume “the network” also means Jay Leno and Jeff Zucker, two favorite O’Brien targets of late). I know I haven’t been alone in being fascinated by this corporate drama/train wreck. And I think part of the reason we’ve enjoyed it so much is there’s been a certain vicarious thrill in watching Conan trash his employer so publicly (and with such biting but still funny humor).
Who hasn’t wanted, on some occasion, to do so? I’ve been pretty lucky in my career. For the most part, I’ve worked for people and companies that were good to me and I respected, and I’ve had lots of great colleagues (and when I didn’t, that was pre-Twitter). But everyone has wanted to stick it to their boss/company at some point, and rail about egregious unfairness, stupid decisions, how badly we’ve been treated, and undeserving colleagues. And for a while there, Conan was venting for all of us. It was fun while it lasted.
GO HERE to read more.
Airlines May Face Higher U.S. Security Fee After Terror Attempt
Added safety measures after last month’s failed attempt to blow up a jetliner may make it harder for U.S. airlines to thwart a security-fee increase the Obama administration has been seeking.
“There’s no question” the administration and Congress will enact higher fees in response to the Christmas Day attempt, Michael Boyd, president of the Boyd Group International Inc., an aviation consulting firm, said in an interview.
U.S. airlines, with collective losses of about $60 billion since 2001, say they lack pricing power to pass fees on to fliers. The government is buying more full-body scanners after it said a 23-year-old Nigerian man attempted to ignite explosives in his undergarments on a Detroit-bound flight.
Security costs should be borne by the government, said David Castelveter, spokesman for the Air Transport Association, whose members include Delta Air Lines Inc. and AMR Corp.’s American Airlines. “The airlines are not under attack; the country is under attack,” Castelveter said.
Even before the Dec. 25 attempt, President Barack Obama’s Homeland Security Department last year proposed increasing a $2.50-a-passenger security fee by $1 annually for three years, starting in fiscal 2012. Airline industry groups opposed the increase, and Congress never acted on it.
GO HERE to read more.
Obama's Nominee To Lead TSA Withdraws
He admits giving inconsistent answers to Congress over old reprimand
WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama's choice to lead the Transportation Security Administration withdrew his name Wednesday.
In a statement, Erroll Southers said he was pulling out because his nomination had become a lightning rod for those with a political agenda.
Obama tapped Southers, a former FBI agent, to lead the TSA in September but his confirmation has been blocked by Republican Sen. Jim DeMint, who says he was worried Southers would allow TSA employees to engage in collective bargaining with the government.
GO HERE to read more.
Strong Aftershock Hits Haiti
Port-au-Prince, Haiti (CNN) -- A strong aftershock rocked Haiti on Wednesday morning just as much-needed medical aid was set to reach the earthquake-ravaged nation.
The 6.1-magnitude aftershock was about 6.2 miles deep, with an epicenter about 35 miles (60 kilometers) west-southwest of the capital of Port-au-Prince, the U.S. Geological Survey said.
It rattled people struggling to recover from the devastating 7.0-magnitude earthquake that walloped the impoverished country January 12, killing at least 72,000 people.
Such a strong tremor can pose significant danger in a nation where damaged buildings are teetering precariously. The aftershock was the strongest to hit Haiti since last week's original quake, the USGS said.
GO HERE to read more.
Two Dozen States’ Unemployment Funds In The Red, Nine More Within Six Months
The record 20 million Americans who collected unemployment insurance benefits last year landed on a safety net that was already deeply frayed.
New Interactive: ProPublica Predicts if Your State's Unemployment Insurance Fund Is About to Hit the SkidsA historical compromise has left responsibility for unemployment benefits largely in the hands of states, and they have fulfilled this charge with varying degrees of effectiveness.
In a series last summer with public radio’s Marketplace, we reported that only a handful of states had built up reserves sufficient to weather the Great Recession – and forecast a spate of borrowing by states where reserves ran out.
Half a year later, the direst predictions seem to be coming true: So far twenty-five states have borrowed more than $25 billion to keep benefits flowing after their trust funds ran dry. In many other states the situation is deteriorating fast.
GO HERE to read more.
STORM WARNING FOR KRATOVIL!
Compared to Massachusetts, the First Congressional District in Maryland is off the scale on the conservative side, Salisbury being the closest place, politically, to Boston (the major place that went Dem. yesterday) and it’s not very close.
Frank: the Obama agenda fell as flat up there as he did in Copenhagen last year, and your party’s in deep doo-doo now thanks to Barack’s non-stop BS. If you want to have a chance of reelection, you had best mind your ways, beginning with health care reform.
Dick Armey: Recapturing The Radical Spirit Of 1994
Back in May of 1994, the 2nd Congressional District of Kentucky held a special election to fill the seat following the passing of Democrat William Natcher. The district had not elected a Republican in 129 years, but Republican Ron Lewis won by a wide margin. Seven months later, Republicans won 54 more seats to take the majority for the first time since 1954.
Can the Republicans do it again and win the 40 seats necessary to win the House majority in the 112th Congress?
The 1994 Republican Revolution had three major components: an unpopular president in Bill Clinton, an unpopular legislative initiative in HillaryCare, and a popular political vision in the Contract with America.
Today, like 1994, a new Democrat president is overreaching in an attempt to centralize the nation's health care system in Washington in lockstep with a congressional leadership that is far to the left of the American public.
Tax-and-spend legislative agendas bent on income redistribution may sit well with the academics and the beautiful people, but not regular Americans who gets stuck with the bills.
Democrats are reading the tea leaves and heading for the door with senators retiring, a House Democrat switching parties and a wave of Blue Dog Democrats hanging up their spurs. There is no doubt that Republicans will make substantial gains, but there is a big difference between winning seats and winning a majority. The latter will require a bold agenda, and the blueprints can be found when you look at the lessons of 1994.
The main lesson from 1994 is that when Republicans act like Republicans, we win; when we act like Democrats, we lose. If Republicans embrace the energy of the small-government activists showing up at "tea parties," they will be rewarded at the ballot box. These are folks not looking for a new program or entitlement, but holding placards at events saying, "We want less."
The Washington Times Commits To Lead The Way
While the principles that we advocate - individual liberty and limited government - do not change with the winds of public opinion, the focus of our work should be determined by the concerns of the people. And we hear Americans speaking. And we hear that most are not happy. And you have told us why.
It is because the size and scope of government have grown in recent years and, in the past year, have grown at a pace that is horrifying to most Americans. Government is growing so quickly it threatens the quality of your life and threatens to take control of your life. The Washington leviathan threatens to eclipse the light of freedom.
Most Washington leaders have forgotten that the greatness of America is in the hearts and minds of her people. The successful government is one that fosters an environment in which the people can pursue their own vision of happiness. Mostly, that means staying out of the way.
Life in the Washington cocoon - marble-floored and walnut-paneled - makes it easy for too many to forget that they were sent here to serve and, most important, to preserve the American liberty and greatness that already exist. The perquisites and trappings of personal power,too often exercised behind closed doors, allow leaders to forget and begin to think that America is something they need to fix, not an ideal they need to defend.
We have concluded that such a serious problem requires a focused and determined response. The Washington Times Editorial Board therefore commits to you that each day over the next 365 days, we will work tirelessly to refocus Washington on how to shrink government and solve problems by giving responsibility and resources back to the individuals and families and businesses where they belong.
More here..
Boehner Hires New Chief Of Staff
House Minority Leader John Boehner's (R-Ohio) office announced it has hired Barry Jackson, an architect of the "Contract with America," to serve as Boehner's chief of staff.
Republican leaders have discussed the possibility of drafting a second document, similar to 1994 "Contract" that helped the GOP win back the House, to guide its candidates in the 2010 midterms.
“By bringing the director of the Contract with America back to the Hill during this important time for the nation, we’re sending a message that Republicans are serious about listening to the people, building a principled and lasting majority, and renewing the drive for smaller, more accountable government," Boehner said in a statement.
Roanoke Police Believe Missing Toddler Is Dead
On January 14, 2010, the Roanoke Police Department received a report of the abduction of Aveion Malik Lewis from the 2100 block of King Charles Avenue.Since then, the department has investigated the reported abduction and received varying degrees of cooperation from key persons in the investigation; which lead police to question the validity of information received from some individuals.
As a result, investigators began to focus on the possibility that Brandon Lockett, Aveion’ step-father was not providing accurate details. Based on conflicting statements given, and significant developments within the last 24 hours, police determined that it was necessary to expand the previous and ongoing ground search.
As the search progressed, Police were advised that the reported abduction did not occur.
It is with great regret and sadness that the Roanoke Police Department announces that our investigation has moved from an abduction to an investigation into the death of Aveion Malik Lewis.
All indications are that Aveion was deceased prior to the 911 call made on January 14. This information has been provided by Brandon Lockett. Unfortunately, police do not yet have a known location of Aveion’s body. The expanded ground search, which began this morning will continue in an effort locate Aveion.
GO HERE to read more.
Fruitland Police Department Press Release
On January 15, 2010 the Fruitland Police Department initiated the second leg of the initiative targeting wanted individuals and street crimes in the Fruitland and surrounding areas. This leg of the operation resulted an additional 14 arrests were made on outstanding warrants, criminal indictments and on – view arrests. During this operation the Fruitland Police Department was supported by the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, Salisbury City Police Department, Maryland State Police Barrack “E” as well as the Wicomico and Somerset County Narcotics Task Forces.
Individuals Arrested and Charged during Phase One:
1. Jerry L. White
Oak Street
Fruitland, Maryland
49 Y.O.A.
Charges: Possession of Crack/Cocaine
2. Oliver L. Long
Church Street
Fruitland, Maryland
29 Y.O.A.
Charges: Possession w/intent to distribute Crack/Cocaine
3. Duran M. Doane
Pine Street
Fruitland, Maryland
21 Y.O.A.
Charges: Possession w/intent to distribute Crack/Cocaine
4. Carlos H. Moore
Poplar Street
Fruitland, Maryland
37 Y.O.A.
Charges: Possession/w intent to dist marijuana
5. Rodney L. Spence
Anderson Street
Fruitland, Maryland
22 Y.O.A.
Charges: Possession w/intent to distribute Crack/cocaine
Individuals Arrested and Charged during Phase Two
1. Joseph Aravanis
Shelltown, Road
Westover, Maryland
34 Y.O.A.
Charges: Bench Warrant for FTA – CDS violations
2. Terrance D. Taylor
Oak Street
Fruitland Maryland
22 YOA
Charges: Criminal Indictment: Distribution of Crack/Cocaine
3. Pearl Anna Katherine Cox
Walnut Tree Road
Eden, Maryland
55 yoa
Charges: Possession of Crack/Cocaine
5. Terrance R. Justice
Dennis St.
Salisbury, Maryland
28 YOA
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Obstructing/Hindering
6. Wanda Mason
Church St.
Fruitland Maryland
36 Y.O.A.
Charges: Criminal Indictment: Distribution of Crack/Cocaine
7. Steven Leach Hodgdon
Lilac Dr.
Fruitland, Maryland
31 YOA
Charges: Bench Warrant Service (2 FTA)
8. Maurice L. Fountain
Sheldon Ave.
Fruitland, Maryland
36 YOA
Charges: Bench Warrant Service - Child Support
9. Jeremy Michael Dow
Aspen Dr.
Salisbury, Maryland
18 YOA
Charges: Driving under the influence of alcohol
10. Richard Eugene Sanders
Bryan Hall Road
Marion Station, Maryland
26 YOA
Charges: Driving on a Revoked license
11. Clyde Emerson Polk
Eden, Maryland
53 YOA
Charges: Bench Warrant Service FTA - CDS
12. Ashley Marie King
Main Street
Fruitland, Maryland
19 Y.O.A.
Charges: Arrest Warrant Service - Threats of Arson
13. Nikta E. Boothman
Dulaney Ave.
Fruitland, Maryland
19 YOA
Charges: Bench Warrant Service – Violation of Probation
14. Zarvell J. Snell
Eden Allen Road
Eden, Maryland
34 YOA
Charges: Criminal Indictment: Distribution of Crack/Cocaine
All subjects were released to Central Booking.
Additional operations targeting individuals involved with drug, criminal, and gang activity will be forthcoming.
PUBLIC NOTICE
THE CITY COUNCIL WILL CONVENE IN A CLOSED SESSION ON MONDAY, JANUARY 25, 2010 TO CONSULT WITH LEGAL COUNSEL ON A LITIGATION MATTER AS PERMITTED UNDER THE ANNOTATED CODE OF MARYLAND SECTIONS 10-508(A)(7)(8).
THE CLOSED SESSION WILL BE HELD FOLLOWING THE CONCLUSION OF THE 6:00 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING (COUNCIL CHAMBERS - 125 N. DIVISION STREET).
Maryland's Fiscal Problems Will Bite Business
Maryland is caught in the throes of shrinking tax revenues, unaffordable spending and too little – too late spending cuts, all of which is papered over with federal stimulus dollars and fund transfers which lead to a structural deficit as far as the eye can see.
The Maryland budget has grown from $29 billion in fiscal year 2007 to $32.3 billion in fiscal year 2010, according to the non-partisan Department of Legislative Services. Yet, the Administration claims to have reduced spending by $4.6 billion since taking office. How can this be? The answer is numerous accounting gimmicks. These gimmicks will lead to a post-election year tax increase that restrains Maryland businesses during what will likely be a feeble economic recovery.
The Administration selectively counts "cuts" without regards to the state's entire budget. The $13.8 billion General Fund, or operating budget, is supported mostly by sales and income taxes. The remaining budget components are supported by bonds, real estate and motor vehicle taxes, tolls, other fees and federal funds. Regardless of the differences between the operating budget and other various accounts, state spending is funded through taxes and fees on individuals and businesses.
Federal stimulus funds, intended to build infrastructure and create jobs, are a prime contributor to claims of exaggerated budget reductions. Maryland is expected to receive $4.1 billion in stimulus funds, and $2.3 billion will support existing budgetary commitments, according to DLS. Thanks to federal funds, in fiscal year 2010 General Fund appropriations decrease by $516.8 million, or 3.6%, below fiscal 2009. The Administration counts this as a cut and at first glance it would appear to be one.
However, Legislative Services characterizes the year-over-year change as "misleading" because the half billion is replaced by federal stimulus dollars. Stimulus funds support Medicaid, education, and discretionary state spending. The Medicaid caseload has expanded to cover 36,000 childless adults, so the temporary stimulus is supporting a permanent program expansion. Stimulus funds are used in the place of general funds to sustain state funding through fiscal year 2011. When the funds are no longer available, policy makers will need to either raise taxes or reduce spending.
Another contributing factor of cuts not really being cuts is fund transfers. When one account is reduced, it is counted as a cut, even if money from another account replenishes it at an equal amount. Each year during this Administration some $1 billion in fund transfers take place. An example of this maneuver in FY '10 involves the Department of Natural Resources' Program Open Space where bonds are now issued for land purchases and the unused balance is transferred to the General Fund. The Administration claims a budget reduction of $172.3 million, but puts that same amount back into the General Fund, most of which is with borrowed money.
Further aggravating Maryland's fiscal condition, the General Assembly enacts new programs, known as spending mandates, without a plan to pay for them. An example of mandated spending is the Thornton education aid redistribution formula which costs $1.3 billion annually. And there are entitlements such as Medicaid. According to DLS, 66% of the FY '09 General Fund appropriations is devoured by mandates and entitlements.
Given reliance on the stimulus, fund transfers, mandated and entitlement spending, it's no wonder there is a projected deficit hovering between $2 billion and $2.3 billion until 2015. The bottom line is that spending has grown and taxes will have to be raised yet again absent real budget reductions. Should that be the case, Maryland will be embedded with tax and spend states like California and New Jersey that shrink their tax base by stifling economic activity and forcing employers and individuals to move to more competitive states.
One interest group is clamoring for more taxes to advance their agenda. The Maryland Budget and Tax Policy Institute, which advocates for government spending, suggests up to $1.7 billion in new annual taxes. These would include continuing the existing .75 percent additional tax on income over $1 million, enacting "combined reporting" of corporate taxes to widen the Maryland tax base to businesses with out of state operations, and increasing alcoholic beverage and fuel tax rates. The organization also believes that Maryland should add consumer services to the sales tax.
The new state tax code in 2007 in the form of higher income, sales, corporate and other taxes isn't enough to support the runaway budget. Revenues have actually declined $3.2 billion since 2007, while the taxes were estimated to generate $1.4 billion in new revenues. From 2007 to 2008, there was a 30% drop in the number of tax filers with incomes of $1 million or more, who were hit with an added tax surcharge in 2007, according to the Comptroller. Raising taxes during a recession has the opposite effect - revenues to the state decline.
Maryland businesses can help the Administration and the General Assembly understand that there is an alternative to ever-increasing taxes. John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan lowered taxes to stave off recession. When Maryland's budget problems are papered over with so-called reductions that aren't reductions, it will only lead to more taxes and fees. Forbes magazine ranks Maryland 42nd in business costs while Virginia is ranked number one overall. Businesses need to remind politicians of the implications of poor fiscal management. After the 2010 elections it will be too late.
TROOPERS CHARGE 3 SUBJECTS WITH DRUG POSSESSION
On January 19, 2010 at 11:45 pm, A Trooper from the Salisbury Barrack of the Maryland State Police stopped a white Volkswagon at Market Street and Main Street in Willards Maryland for a traffic violation. The Trooper could detect the odor of marihuana coming from within the vehicle. A probable cause search of the vehicle revealed suspected marihuana and heroin inside of the vehicle along with drug paraphernalia. The occupants of the vehicle, Casey Lee Fyffe, 21, of Ocean City, Heather Lee Bowden, 27, of Salisbury, and Kenneth Mearle Larkin, 29, of Baltimore were all arrested and charged with possession of marihuana, possession of heroin, and possession of drug paraphernalia. All 3 subjects were transported to the Wicomico County Detention Center for a hearing with a commissioner.
While being transported to WCDC, one suspect, Heather Lee Bowden, 27, of Salisbury, became ill in a patrol vehicle and requested to be transported to the hospital. EMS personnel responded to the patrol vehicle on Rt. 50 in the Willards area and transported Bowden, who was pregnant, to PRMC. During an examination at PRMC, hospital personnel located several syringes and suspected baggies of cocaine concealed within her body. Troopers immediately took possession of the items and are awaiting her release from PRMC to transport her to WCDC. She will be charged with additional counts of possession of paraphernalia and possession of cocaine.
The Magical Light
The doctor says, "George, everything looks great. How are you doing mentally and emotionally ? Are you at peace with God?"
George replies, "God and I are tight. He's taking care of me. He knows I have poor eyesight, so he's fixed it so when I get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, POOF.... the light goes on. When I'm done, POOF... the light goes off."
"Wow, that's incredible," the doctor says.
A little later in the day, the doctor calls George's wife, Ethel.
"Hello Ethel," the doctor begins. "George is doing fine. But I had to call you because I'm in awe of his relationship with God. Is it true that he gets up during the night and POOF.... the light goes on in the bathroom, and when he's done, POOF..... the light goes off ?"
"Oh Dear God !!" 'Ethel exclaims. "He's pissing in the fridge again !"
FY11 BUDGET, CLOSES $2 BILLION DEFICIT
GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY OUTLINES FY11 BUDGET, CLOSES $2 BILLION DEFICIT AND PROTECTS KEY PRIORITIES
Proposed budget represents fourth straight year within spending affordability guidelines;
Second consecutive budget to propose negative affordability growth
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley, joined today by Lieutenant Governor Anthony Brown and Secretary T. Eloise Foster of the Maryland Department of Budget and Management, outlined the FY 2011 budget for the State of Maryland, maintaining fiscal responsibility by remaining within spending affordability guidelines for the fourth straight year. The FY11 budget brings total reductions under the O’Malley-Brown Administration to $5.6 billion and more than 3,500 state positions.
"These have not been easy times for our country, our State, nor for the hardworking people that we represent, but in the face of some very big challenges we’ve been able to make very important progress,” said Governor O’Malley. “By nearly every objective criteria, Maryland is in a stronger position than other States to recover from this recession even stronger – for an economic renewal that will get us back once again to prosperity."
Every year since taking office, Governor O’Malley has submitted – and the General Assembly has passed – a balanced budget under the spending affordability guidelines, and for the first time in at least 40 years, state General Fund spending is lower now than it was four years ago. In fact, the O’Malley-Brown Administration is the first ever to propose negative affordability growth, and has done so in the last two years. The FY11 budget proposes total spending to decline by $249 million, representing the first time in at least 39 years that total operating budget spending has declined since the previous year.
“Because of the choices we’ve made together, with partners in the General Assembly and across the entire state, we have protected progress, improved our public schools and expanded health care to more Marylanders,” Lt. Governor Brown said. “We share a belief that when the times are bad, we must all do our part to be better so when times get better, we can be the best. Governor O’Malley’s leadership and vision during difficult economic times has made Maryland a better state and I am confident that we will pull through these challenging times together more quickly than other states.”
The proposed FY11 budget protects funding for key priority areas, including public education, job creation, public safety, and environmental protection.
· Continues record funding for the nation’s number one public schools, bringing total funding to a record $5.7 billion;
· $20 million dedicated to the Job Creation and Recovery Tax Credit, encouraging businesses to hire unemployed Marylanders this year;
· $3.2 billion in the capital budget will support more than 20,000 construction jobs during next fiscal year;
· Funding for the Chesapeake Bay 2010 Trust Fund will double over FY10;
· Continue funding for health care coverage for low-income children and adults. Since Governor O’Malley took office, health care coverage has been expanded to more than 200,000 additional Marylanders.
Maryland remains one of only seven states in the nation to maintain a Triple A bond rating, certified by all three credit rating agencies. Maryland’s unemployment rate remains 25 percent lower than the national average, and last year Maryland’s rate of job growth was better than all but two other states. Our state continues to gain jobs in key sectors of our economy, including Computer Systems Design where Maryland experienced the best growth in America last year.
The FY11 budget proposes more than $1 billion in budget reductions, including level funding of most local aid programs, additional state employee compensation actions, and state agency reorganization. More than 3,500 state positions have been eliminated during the O’Malley-Brown Administration, representing a savings of more than $150 million in this budget alone. Maryland state and local governments collectively rank tenth in terms of fewest government employees per capita.
The Governor’s presentation on the FY11 budget is available here.
A briefing document on the FY11 budget key priority areas is available here.
Public Education
Funding for K-12 public education has increased 27 percent under the O’Malley-Brown Administration to a FY11 proposed total of $5.7 billion. School construction funding has increased 52 percent compared to the previous administration.
· The FY11 budget increases direct K-12 funding by $99 million,
· Fully funds teacher and librarian pensions,
· Includes a $2.7 million increase for the SEED School.
· Brings total in-state tuition increases to three percent since FY07, compared to increases of more than 30 percent under the last administration.
o As a result, USM tuition rates decline from sixth highest in the nation to an estimated 21st in FY11.
Job Creation
Governor O’Malley recently announced a public-private partnership at Seagirt Marine Terminal which will generate 5,700 new jobs. Additionally, federal Recovery and Reinvestment funding has allowed Maryland to create or retain more than 14,000 jobs during the first quarter of FY10.
· The proposed FY11 budget includes $20 million for a new Jobs Creation and Recovery Tax Credit, which if fully utilized could bring 6,700 unemployed Marylanders back into the workforce,
· Governor O’Malley proposes reauthorization of the Sustainable Communities Tax Credit ($50 million over three years),
· Proposed capital budget will support more than 20,000 construction jobs,
· Funds for the first time the BRAC Zone Tax Credit at $300,000,
o More than $500 million of capital funding is dedicated to BRAC related infrastructure projects to prepare the State for the arrival of thousands of jobs beginning next fiscal year.
Public Safety
Maryland lost fewer of citizens to homicide than in any year since 1986, including 25 percent fewer juveniles. Our murder rate in 2009 was 26% lower than it was three years ago in 2006, and 11% lower than in 2008.
· Local police aid is funded at $45.4 million in the proposed FY11 budget,
· $20.1 million is allocated for local law enforcement grants,
· Maryland State Police will receive funding for ten additional troopers under the proposed budget
· Funding for juvenile programs such as Operation Safe Kids ($1.3 million) and evidence-based services for juveniles ($7.2 million).
Environmental Protection
Since taking office, the O’Malley-Brown Administration has protected more than 25,700 acres under Program Open Space, compared to less than 4,700 acres under the previous administration. The Governor has been recognized for innovative programs such as GreenPrint and BayStat that provide a new level of transparency to the State’s efforts to improve the quality and health of the Chesapeake Bay.
· The proposed FY11 budget fully funds Program Open Space at $22.7 million for State and $15.3 million for local projects,
· Record funding for the Chesapeake Bay 2010 Trust Fund ($20 million),
· $17.6 million for the Rural Legacy program, which preserves and protects those precious natural resources which are so essential to our quality of life.
· Agricultural land preservation funded at $25.9 million and nearly $14 million for Cover Crop programs, which help reduce dangerous storm water runoff into the Bay.