The proposed budget numbers are now being made available at the city's website.
Those planning to attend tonight's budget hearing might want to look at the numbers in advance to see if there is anything that they want to ask about.
The hearing is a part of the regular monthly council meeting that begins at 7:30 PM at Fruitland City Hall.
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
The Gas Tax Is Back
The Liberals in Congress believe that if gas costs more you'll drive less. That's why they want to increase the gas tax. All in the name of saving the environment while destroying the economy.
And so tomorrow, Senators John Kerry (D-MA) and Joe Lieberman (I-CT) will unveil their new energy tax, which may include a new tax on gasoline, diesel, and other transportation fuels.
They will say, however, that it is not a gasoline tax because it doesn't raise the specific Federal Gasoline Excise Tax, currently set at 18.4 cents per gallon. But their proposal, according to multiple credible reports, is actually a tax imposed on top of the existing Federal Gasoline Excise Tax.
And Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), who helped craft this new gas tax, admitted the higher costs for energy companies "will be passed on" to motorists at the pump.
At American Solutions, we believe that if Americans pay more for something because of a government requirement, it's a tax. It's little wonder why a recent American Solutions poll found that 71% of Americans oppose a new gasoline tax.
We're not sure how much the new tax will raise gasoline prices. Researchers at Harvard University, however, recently determined that President Obama's ideal energy policy could lead to $7 per gallon gasoline.
In addition to potentially increasing the price of gasoline and diesel, the Kerry-Lieberman energy tax will increase the cost of energy for all American families. And the independent Congressional Budget Office recently determined that a new energy tax will kill jobs and reduce American productivity.
We believe raising taxes and killing more jobs is the wrong solution for America's 9.9% unemployment rate. We plan to fight this devastating legislation from day one, and we hope you will join us.
After the bill is introduced tomorrow, we will follow up with details about the bill and ways you can help.
Your friend,
Newt Gingrich
General Chairman
American Solutions
And so tomorrow, Senators John Kerry (D-MA) and Joe Lieberman (I-CT) will unveil their new energy tax, which may include a new tax on gasoline, diesel, and other transportation fuels.
They will say, however, that it is not a gasoline tax because it doesn't raise the specific Federal Gasoline Excise Tax, currently set at 18.4 cents per gallon. But their proposal, according to multiple credible reports, is actually a tax imposed on top of the existing Federal Gasoline Excise Tax.
And Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), who helped craft this new gas tax, admitted the higher costs for energy companies "will be passed on" to motorists at the pump.
At American Solutions, we believe that if Americans pay more for something because of a government requirement, it's a tax. It's little wonder why a recent American Solutions poll found that 71% of Americans oppose a new gasoline tax.
We're not sure how much the new tax will raise gasoline prices. Researchers at Harvard University, however, recently determined that President Obama's ideal energy policy could lead to $7 per gallon gasoline.
In addition to potentially increasing the price of gasoline and diesel, the Kerry-Lieberman energy tax will increase the cost of energy for all American families. And the independent Congressional Budget Office recently determined that a new energy tax will kill jobs and reduce American productivity.
We believe raising taxes and killing more jobs is the wrong solution for America's 9.9% unemployment rate. We plan to fight this devastating legislation from day one, and we hope you will join us.
After the bill is introduced tomorrow, we will follow up with details about the bill and ways you can help.
Your friend,
Newt Gingrich
General Chairman
American Solutions
Breaking News
David Cameron Becomes British Prime Minister
Conservative leader David Cameron becomes Britain's youngest prime minister in almost 200 years, after Gordon Brown resigns.
MORE DETAILS: http://www.wbaltv.com/tu/5PEzIdz2j.html
Lost Dog Found In Delmar, MD.
Hi Mr. Albero,
I love you site, and I see animals returned to their owners all the time. I am hoping you can help me with one that ended up at my house at 4:30 a.m. Monday morning. He is about 8 -10 year old Chocolate lab, with a little white on his muzzle. No collar, and appears to have some arthritis. Please call 410-543-6626 and ask for Jeani Kerley.
Burglary Arrest
Worcester County Bureau of Investigation
Date & Time March & April 2010 Case #: 10-0072
Location Occurred: Worcester Co. MD
Crime or Violation: Residential Burglaries
Victims: Shire Dr. Berlin, Woodlawn Rd. Berlin, Marina Dr. Berlin,
Meadow Bridge Rd. Eden, St. Lukes Rd. Snowhill, two residences on Blueberry
Rd. Whaleyville and Shavox Church Rd, Whaleyville.
Accused: Brad Donaway,
Male age 32
From Pocomoke, Worcester Co. MD.
Charges: Burglary/Theft
Narrative: The following cases were investigated by the Worcester County Bureau
of Investigation during the month of April and the beginning of May, 2010
These burglaries occurred in three regions of Worcester County; Snow Hill,
Whaleyville, and Berlin, during a two day period.
Through the investigation, it was found that Brad Donaway (Wht/Male -- age 32,
who resided in Worcester Co. MD), has been identified as the suspect involved
and committing the burglaries as stated above. The suspect has been charged
through the District Court of Maryland, and is currently being held in the
State of Delaware, awaiting extradition back to Maryland.
Method of gaining entry into the listed residence was by force, usually the
prying of a door or window
Date & Time March & April 2010 Case #: 10-0072
Location Occurred: Worcester Co. MD
Crime or Violation: Residential Burglaries
Victims: Shire Dr. Berlin, Woodlawn Rd. Berlin, Marina Dr. Berlin,
Meadow Bridge Rd. Eden, St. Lukes Rd. Snowhill, two residences on Blueberry
Rd. Whaleyville and Shavox Church Rd, Whaleyville.
Accused: Brad Donaway,
Male age 32
From Pocomoke, Worcester Co. MD.
Charges: Burglary/Theft
Narrative: The following cases were investigated by the Worcester County Bureau
of Investigation during the month of April and the beginning of May, 2010
These burglaries occurred in three regions of Worcester County; Snow Hill,
Whaleyville, and Berlin, during a two day period.
Through the investigation, it was found that Brad Donaway (Wht/Male -- age 32,
who resided in Worcester Co. MD), has been identified as the suspect involved
and committing the burglaries as stated above. The suspect has been charged
through the District Court of Maryland, and is currently being held in the
State of Delaware, awaiting extradition back to Maryland.
Method of gaining entry into the listed residence was by force, usually the
prying of a door or window
Playboy Centerfold To Jump Off Page In 3-D
Magazine hopes to remind ‘readers’ how nice it is to hold, keep print editionCHICAGO - Playboy readers who can only imagine what it would look like if a centerfold jumped right off the page are getting new specs to help them see into Hef's world.
The magazine's June edition hits newsstands Friday equipped with 3-D glasses. Now the toy that has kids dodging dragons, meatballs and tall blue aliens at the movies will help adults focus on what is, at first glance, a very blurry Playmate of the Year.
"What would people most like to see in 3-D?" asked Playboy founder Hugh Hefner. "Probably a naked lady."
GO HERE to read more.
Viral Campaign: Send a T-Shirt and a Message to Live Oak High School Students
Chris W. at My Thoughts on Freedom had a great idea to support for the students of Live Oak High School in California. Please read the following and support if you can.
Send A T-Shirt And Send A Message from My Thoughts on Freedom
The latest assault on America came last week when five high school students in California were sent home for the day because they chose to be patriotic and wore t-shirts depicting the American flag on Cinco de Mayo. This act of patriotism was deemed incendiary by one school official and offensive and disrespectful by students of Mexican descent who claimed that this was their day to celebrate Mexico.
This cannot be tolerated. Even though the school's principal has since apologized, that does not begin to address the issue which is this is America and every day we are a free nation is a cause to celebrate that.
To this end, we need to band together to show the anti-America crowd that we will not accept these assaults on free speech and patriotism. We also need to show, not only these five student but, students across the country that they should not be ashamed or fearful of showing their pride in America at any time.
To let these kids know that America has their backs please show your solidarity and send a flag adorned t-shirt or any other representation of the flag to
Flags for Free Speech
c/o Live Oak High School
1505 East Main Ave
Morgan Hill CA 95037
There are approximately 1300 students at Live Oak HS and we would like to see that they each get one.
Thank you
Brooke Mulford Update
I just wanted to let everyone know that Brooke made out fine with her bone marrow biopsy today. She was scheduled for 8:30 this morning but they didn’t start the procedure until this afternoon so it was a longer day than I expected. Brooke was very anxious about having the iv put in her hand but she did great when they actually put in in and didn’t even flinch. She has never liked having an iv in her hand since the beginning and never wants anyone to see it and keeps it covered with her blankie at all times. When she woke up from the procedure she was fairly pleasant until she saw that the iv was still in her hand and she had a fit until they could take it out! We won’t know the results from the biopsy for at least a few days and I promise to update as soon as I can.
We were so happy to get to see some of our NB friends today that were in the onco day hospital waiting to get admitted (Please pray for Charlie, Beth & Robyn as they go through their treatments this week).
Thanks everyone so much for all the prayers – my scanxiety has not been nearly as bad as I thought it would be!
God Bless,
Amy
Delta Paid $2,800 For Lost Dog Valued At $20,000
Paco wasn't the only dog lost in transit before it was loaded onto a Delta aircraft. Four years ago, Vivi, a whippet who won the Award of Merit in the Westimnster Kennel Club Dog show, escaped from her kennel as it was being loaded onto a Delta flight and was reportedly seen running across the tarmac before escaping into the marshy marsh. A media frenzy ensued....
...and a 100-volunteer hunt, complete with helicopter patrol. Flyers were distributed in seven different language and at one point 34 pet psychics were on the case. Vivi was never found and Delta paid the owners $2,800, though the dog's value was estimated to be $20,000. But according to the psychics, you should shed no tears. They say Vivi is fine and happy, living in Brooklyn.
GO HERE to read more.
...and a 100-volunteer hunt, complete with helicopter patrol. Flyers were distributed in seven different language and at one point 34 pet psychics were on the case. Vivi was never found and Delta paid the owners $2,800, though the dog's value was estimated to be $20,000. But according to the psychics, you should shed no tears. They say Vivi is fine and happy, living in Brooklyn.
GO HERE to read more.
Toyota's Earnings Bounce Back As Sales Recover
‘This year will mark a new beginning for Toyota,’ CEO says
TOKYO - Toyota cruised back to profit in the latest quarter as the world's top carmaker cut costs and hitched a ride on the global auto sales recovery while fighting to salvage its reputation for quality.
But the automaker's top executive and analysts alike said Toyota is still far from a full recovery while another potential blow to its image looms after U.S. federal authorities launched a fresh investigation into a steering recall.
Toyota Motor Corp. said Tuesday that January-March profit totaled 112 billion yen ($1.2 billion) compared with a 766 billion yen loss the year before.
GO HERE to read more.
County's New Government Has Had A Bumpy Start
Approaching the end of the first term of Wicomico County's executive form of government, a few comments follow. This observer served two terms on the County Council and was a member of all Charter Review Commissions.
The first executive retained virtually all personnel and programs of the past. With a few major snags, harmony has been the big priority.
The legislative (council) branch is another story. Starting with a staff of one, it seemed not to appreciate that the powers given it by the new charter were essential to separation of powers, and checks and balances. After a fatal effort to hire an administrator, council members settled on one grounded in ways of the old charter.
Council efforts to empower itself have been largely futile. Two essential tools have been missing:
It has failed to recruit an internal auditor for needed checks and balances for its fiscal responsibility.
Another missing tool is its failure to retain an attorney for those rare instances when the county attorney (a department head appointed by the executive) offers the council debatable advice.
The county charter provides a strong executive, but the council needs to arm itself. The Charter Review Commission limited the executive to two terms; unfortunately, this provision was deleted by the old council in the copy presented to the voters.
I hope the coming campaigns will focus heavily on these issues.
Kenneth T. Matthews
Source
The first executive retained virtually all personnel and programs of the past. With a few major snags, harmony has been the big priority.
The legislative (council) branch is another story. Starting with a staff of one, it seemed not to appreciate that the powers given it by the new charter were essential to separation of powers, and checks and balances. After a fatal effort to hire an administrator, council members settled on one grounded in ways of the old charter.
Council efforts to empower itself have been largely futile. Two essential tools have been missing:
It has failed to recruit an internal auditor for needed checks and balances for its fiscal responsibility.
Another missing tool is its failure to retain an attorney for those rare instances when the county attorney (a department head appointed by the executive) offers the council debatable advice.
The county charter provides a strong executive, but the council needs to arm itself. The Charter Review Commission limited the executive to two terms; unfortunately, this provision was deleted by the old council in the copy presented to the voters.
I hope the coming campaigns will focus heavily on these issues.
Kenneth T. Matthews
Source
Councilman Gary Comegys Seat Remains Empty
Perhaps Mayor Ireton still holds hope that if Mr. Comegys were to return at some point they could get that third vote he so desperately needs to move forward with the Linnens of the Week property.
Perhaps we'll even witness the "last minute" savior suggestions Mr. Comegys always delivers on the Budget each year.
One thing is for certain, he may be down right now but I can guarantee you he isn't out.
Violent Home Invasion Suspects Sought
Location: Memo’s Auto Sales, 2000 block of North DuPont Highway, New Castle, Delaware
Date of Occurrence: Monday, May 10th, 2010, just prior to midnight
Suspect(s):
White male, approximately 5'10'' - 6'01'', average to thin build, approximately 20-25 years of age wearing a black mask concealing his face, a black hooded shirt over his head, black shoes, wearing blue latex gloves.
Hispanic male, described by the victim’s as having a Puerto Rican accent, approximately 5'05'' - 5'07'', thin build, 20-25 years of age wearing a black mask concealing his face, black shirt, black shoes, and wearing black gloves.
Resume: On Monday, May 10th, just prior to midnight, a home invasion robbery occurred inside Memo’s Auto Sales on North DuPont Highway in New Castle. It should be noted that this business also consist of several rooms rented out by the owner as apartments.
This investigation revealed two male suspects, one armed with a handgun and the other armed with the auto theft deterrent known as “The Club,” broke into the business by unknown means. Once inside, they responded to the victims’ apartments. The suspects then robbed the victims at gunpoint.
One of the victims initially did not believe this to be a bonafide robbery and asked if ‘this was a joke.’ The armed suspect replied by firing a shot into the room. No one was hit.
The bandits then ransacked the business- stealing multiple items such as electronics, money and a computer. They also confronted one victim who did not have any money to give them. They then beat him.
Prior to leaving the business, the suspects located keys to a BMW which was for sale and parked out front. The suspect armed with the handgun then fired another shot into the business, nearly missing one of the victims as the duo fled the scene. The suspects used the BMW as a get away car.
The vehicle was eventually located abandoned just south of the crime scene in the parking lot of another business.
There is no surveillance video in this case. The victims did not require medical attention.
Anyone with information pertaining to this case is asked to call Troop 2 detectives at 302-834-2630 ext. 6 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Date of Occurrence: Monday, May 10th, 2010, just prior to midnight
Suspect(s):
White male, approximately 5'10'' - 6'01'', average to thin build, approximately 20-25 years of age wearing a black mask concealing his face, a black hooded shirt over his head, black shoes, wearing blue latex gloves.
Hispanic male, described by the victim’s as having a Puerto Rican accent, approximately 5'05'' - 5'07'', thin build, 20-25 years of age wearing a black mask concealing his face, black shirt, black shoes, and wearing black gloves.
Resume: On Monday, May 10th, just prior to midnight, a home invasion robbery occurred inside Memo’s Auto Sales on North DuPont Highway in New Castle. It should be noted that this business also consist of several rooms rented out by the owner as apartments.
This investigation revealed two male suspects, one armed with a handgun and the other armed with the auto theft deterrent known as “The Club,” broke into the business by unknown means. Once inside, they responded to the victims’ apartments. The suspects then robbed the victims at gunpoint.
One of the victims initially did not believe this to be a bonafide robbery and asked if ‘this was a joke.’ The armed suspect replied by firing a shot into the room. No one was hit.
The bandits then ransacked the business- stealing multiple items such as electronics, money and a computer. They also confronted one victim who did not have any money to give them. They then beat him.
Prior to leaving the business, the suspects located keys to a BMW which was for sale and parked out front. The suspect armed with the handgun then fired another shot into the business, nearly missing one of the victims as the duo fled the scene. The suspects used the BMW as a get away car.
The vehicle was eventually located abandoned just south of the crime scene in the parking lot of another business.
There is no surveillance video in this case. The victims did not require medical attention.
Anyone with information pertaining to this case is asked to call Troop 2 detectives at 302-834-2630 ext. 6 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Today's Survey Question
If Your Property Value Dropped 50%Would You Walk Away From It
&
Turn It Over To The Bank?
World Health Organization Moving Ahead On Billions In Internet And Other Taxes
The World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations' public health arm, is moving full speed ahead with a controversial plan to impose global consumer taxes on such things as Internet activity and everyday financial transactions like paying bills online — while its spending soars and its own financial house is in disarray.
The aim of its taxing plans is to raise "tens of billions" of dollars for WHO that would be used to radically reorganize the research, development, production and distribution of medicines around the world, with greater emphasis on drugs for communicable diseases in poor countries.
The irony is that the WHO push to take a huge bite out of global consumers comes as the organization is having a management crisis of its own, juggling finances, failing to use its current resources efficiently, or keep its costs under control — and it doesn't expect to show positive results in managing those challenges until a year from now, at the earliest.
Fox News initially reported last January on the "suite of proposals" for "new and innovative sources of funding," prepared by a 25-member panel of medical experts, academics and health care bureaucrats, when it was presented of a meeting of WHO's 34-member Executive Board in Geneva.
Now the proposals are headed for the four-day annual meeting of the 193-member World Health Assembly, WHO's chief legislative organ, which begins in Geneva on May 17.
The Health Assembly, a medical version of the United Nations General Assembly, will be invited to "take note" of the experts' report. It will then head back with that passive endorsement to another Executive Board meeting, which begins May 22, for further action. It is the Executive Board that will "give effect" to the Assembly's decisions.
What it all means is that a major lobbying effort could soon be underway to convince rich governments in particular to begin taxing citizens or industries to finance a drastic restructuring of medical research and development on behalf of poorer ones.
The aim of its taxing plans is to raise "tens of billions" of dollars for WHO that would be used to radically reorganize the research, development, production and distribution of medicines around the world, with greater emphasis on drugs for communicable diseases in poor countries.
The irony is that the WHO push to take a huge bite out of global consumers comes as the organization is having a management crisis of its own, juggling finances, failing to use its current resources efficiently, or keep its costs under control — and it doesn't expect to show positive results in managing those challenges until a year from now, at the earliest.
Fox News initially reported last January on the "suite of proposals" for "new and innovative sources of funding," prepared by a 25-member panel of medical experts, academics and health care bureaucrats, when it was presented of a meeting of WHO's 34-member Executive Board in Geneva.
Now the proposals are headed for the four-day annual meeting of the 193-member World Health Assembly, WHO's chief legislative organ, which begins in Geneva on May 17.
The Health Assembly, a medical version of the United Nations General Assembly, will be invited to "take note" of the experts' report. It will then head back with that passive endorsement to another Executive Board meeting, which begins May 22, for further action. It is the Executive Board that will "give effect" to the Assembly's decisions.
What it all means is that a major lobbying effort could soon be underway to convince rich governments in particular to begin taxing citizens or industries to finance a drastic restructuring of medical research and development on behalf of poorer ones.
Read more here
I'd Like To Cancel My Account
Bank of America : Can I help you?
Customer: Yes, I want to cancel my account. I don't want to do business with you any longer.
The Bank: Why?
Customer: You're giving credit to illegal immigrants and I don't think it's right. I'm taking my business elsewhere.
The Bank: Well, Mr. Customer, we don't want to see you do that, but we can't stop you. I'll help you close the account. What is your account number?
Customer: (gives account number)
The Bank: For security purposes and for your protection, can you please give me the last four digits of your social security number?
Customer: No.
The Bank: Mr. Customer, I need to verify your information, but in order to help you, I'll need verification of who you are..
Customer: Why should I give you my social security number? The reason I'm closing my account is that your bank is issuing credit cards to illegal immigrants who don't have social security numbers. You are targeting that audience and want their business. Let's say I'm an illegal immigrant and you've given me a credit card. I have a question about it and call for assistance. You wouldn't be asking me for a Social Security number, would you?
The Bank: No sir, I wouldn't.
Customer: Why not?
The Bank: Because you would have pressed '2' to speak in Spanish. We don't ask for that information when calling in on the Spanish line.
If it does raise the hair on the back of your neck, then forward it to every human in the country including every representative in Washington, DC four times a week for a month.
Customer: Yes, I want to cancel my account. I don't want to do business with you any longer.
The Bank: Why?
Customer: You're giving credit to illegal immigrants and I don't think it's right. I'm taking my business elsewhere.
The Bank: Well, Mr. Customer, we don't want to see you do that, but we can't stop you. I'll help you close the account. What is your account number?
Customer: (gives account number)
The Bank: For security purposes and for your protection, can you please give me the last four digits of your social security number?
Customer: No.
The Bank: Mr. Customer, I need to verify your information, but in order to help you, I'll need verification of who you are..
Customer: Why should I give you my social security number? The reason I'm closing my account is that your bank is issuing credit cards to illegal immigrants who don't have social security numbers. You are targeting that audience and want their business. Let's say I'm an illegal immigrant and you've given me a credit card. I have a question about it and call for assistance. You wouldn't be asking me for a Social Security number, would you?
The Bank: No sir, I wouldn't.
Customer: Why not?
The Bank: Because you would have pressed '2' to speak in Spanish. We don't ask for that information when calling in on the Spanish line.
If it does raise the hair on the back of your neck, then forward it to every human in the country including every representative in Washington, DC four times a week for a month.
Provided "snopes" for doubters:http://www.snopes.com/politics/immigration/bankofamerica.asp
Elena Kagan: Wall Street’s SCOTUS Pick
Democrats are going gaa-gaa over Obama’s Supreme pick Elena Kagan. “Democrats praised Kagan as ‘razor sharp’ and impeccably qualified for the lifetime appointment on the nine-member bench, but Republicans promised to vigorously vet a ’surprising’ choice, noting she had never been a judge,” reports Agence France-Presse. “I have selected a nominee who I believe embodies… excellence, independence, integrity and passion for the law, and who can ultimately provide that same kind of leadership on the court,” Obama said at the White House.
GO HERE to read more.
GO HERE to read more.
Mayor Ireton, What Is It About Nay You Don't Understand
At last nights City Council Meeting the Linnens of the Week property was clearly shot down, done, over, no more.Because of possible environmental issues, Campbell & Cohen voted Nay against the offer of the property owners donating the property to the City. IF there are environmental issues and the City agrees to take the property as a donation, the City would then become liable to who knows what amount of money to re mediate it. This is a risk the Council is not willing to take.
Unless you're Louise Smith and Shanie Shields, that is. They voted to accept the property without full knowledge of two major issues. One, the cost to tear down two buildings on the property and Two, the cost to comply with the MDE.
Estimated figures to tear down the buildings came in anywhere between $200,000.00 all the way to $400,000.00. I know, quite a difference between the two.
Shanie played the Race Card again last night and quite frankly I'm getting sick and tired of the grandstanding, acting as if her people always get the raw end of any deal. We're tired of having to look at properties like Linnens of the Week. You don't see these kinds of properties in the Camden Neighborhood and Nithsdale, she said.
You also don't pay the taxes those neighborhood pay Shanie. Look, I'm all about fair play but you can't scream racism every time you're not getting your way. You seem to be willing to take major risks at taxpayers expense just because a property owner who knows they have MDE issues and wants to unload it on the City.
Nevertheless, the matter was shot down but that didn't stop Ireton from asking what part of their overall proposal needs to be brought back to a Work Session. NONE OF IT. Council President Louise Smith tried to politely say it was shot down, it's done, over. Ireton still felt they had worked too hard to get it moved this far and wasn't about to give up.
I know many people with selective hearing, now I'll add Ireton to that list.
RSC Update: Monday, May 10, 2010
From the Chairman
Traditionally, Congress is expected to agree on a budget for the upcoming fiscal year by April 15. That agreement then sets the parameters for debate on the annual spending bills that will fund the federal government. Yet almost a month after the deadline, Democrats have not just failed to write a budget – they have failed to even decide if they will write a budget. This is an historic abdication of their governing responsibilities by House Democrats. In the 36 years since the current budgeting process was adopted, not once has the House of Representatives ever failed to vote on a budget resolution.
Of course, this is the same Democrat-controlled Congress responsible for (what at the end of this fiscal year will be) the three largest deficits in American history. And even if they don’t produce a budget, House Democrats still plan to pass spending bills big enough to create another trillion dollar deficit next year. This time, they just won’t bother to plan it out beforehand.
Such irresponsibility must end. That means more than just writing a budget; it means writing a balanced budget. The RSC did precisely that last year, and we’ll do it again this year. All it takes is a determination to get America off the path to fiscal ruin and a willingness to make tough choices. In other words, it takes leadership.
Sincerely,
Congressman Tom Price
Chairman, Republican Study Committee
RSC Media Activity – Republican Study Committee members work hard to ensure that the conservative viewpoint is well-represented in all corners of the media. Visit our Media Center for more.
· Rep. Mike Coffman (CO-06): Border Policies Continue to Jeopardize National Security; Daily Caller, May 5.
· Reps. Scott Garrett (NJ-05) and Parker Griffith (AL-05): The Dodd Bill Is Bad for Taxpayers; National Review, May 5.
· Rep. Rob Bishop (UT-01): The Case for Federalism - The Founders’ Forgotten Formula for Freedom; National Review, May 9.
· Reps. Mike Pence (IN-06) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05): We’re Bailing Out Greece; NY Post, May 9.
Outlook – Here is a preview of upcoming Democrat proposals to advance their big-government, anti-taxpayer agenda.
· The House will take up H.R. 5116, an $86 billion expansion and reauthorization of the 2007 America COMPETES Act (which increased federal involvement in funding math and science education). The bill would authorize a 31% increase in spending compared to the currently authorized levels and would also create at least seven new programs.
· While the Senate’s primary focus will remain the Democrats’ permanent bailout bill, they will also reportedly unveil their National Energy Tax legislation this week.
House Floor Activity – The following key legislation came through the House of Representatives last week.
· The House passed H.R. 5019, also known as “Cash for Caulkers,” which would spend $6.6 billion to subsidize home energy efficiency and “weatherization” projects. The Democrats’ stimulus package already included $4.7 billion for similar programs, $3.7 million of which was used to “weatherize” just 47 homes in Texas.
Steele Goes After Kagan Over Thurgood Marshall Comment
First black justice called original Constitution "defective"
Republican National Chairman Michael Steele is calling Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan to account for her comments in support of Thurgood Marshall, the first black justice on the nation's highest court.
Steele's statement is attracting plenty of attention from liberal bloggers, who never miss a chance to whack the Republican Party's first black chairman. Minutes after Obama announced his nomination, Steele said that Senate Republicans would raise "serious and tough questions" about Kagan's legal philosophy. That includes comments she made in support of Marshall, who described the Constitution as originally drafted and conceived as "defective."
But a prominent Republican blogger, conservative scholar Abigail Thernstrom, was critical of Steele as well, advising the RNC chairman and staff to "try thinking before you speak." Steele's words also provoked private concern from Republican strategists, who questioned the wisdom of attacking Kagan for words she wrote praising Marshall after his death in 1993.
GO HERE to read more.
Republican National Chairman Michael Steele is calling Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan to account for her comments in support of Thurgood Marshall, the first black justice on the nation's highest court.
Steele's statement is attracting plenty of attention from liberal bloggers, who never miss a chance to whack the Republican Party's first black chairman. Minutes after Obama announced his nomination, Steele said that Senate Republicans would raise "serious and tough questions" about Kagan's legal philosophy. That includes comments she made in support of Marshall, who described the Constitution as originally drafted and conceived as "defective."
But a prominent Republican blogger, conservative scholar Abigail Thernstrom, was critical of Steele as well, advising the RNC chairman and staff to "try thinking before you speak." Steele's words also provoked private concern from Republican strategists, who questioned the wisdom of attacking Kagan for words she wrote praising Marshall after his death in 1993.
GO HERE to read more.
A Little Background On Winslow "Jay" Parker
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Like beauty, "data integrity" lies in the eye of the beholder.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has accused five Baltimore-area companies of providing faulty data about hazardous chemicals at their plants.
Three of the companies say the accusations are unfair because the EPA's own recordkeeping is flawed.
The dispute began last week when the EPA leveled charges about a lack of "data integrity," saying the five companies had not filed timely and accurate reports on the chemicals they use and release.
To show that the agency takes such lapses seriously, the EPA proposed fines totaling $171,942.
Three companies say they filed all of the required data -- though maybe a bit late in a few cases -- and can't understand why the government is after them. The other two businesses are checking their records.
A total of 28 companies in the Middle Atlantic region face EPA charges as part of a nationwide crackdown on faulty reporting of accidental leaks, releases and storage of hazardous chemicals.
Here are the five local companies, the allegations against them and the proposed penalties:
* Turnbull Enterprises Inc., a manufacturer of seating for Navy ships; failing to report releases of toluene from its Southwest Baltimore plant; $50,488.
* G. Heileman Brewing Co., producer of Colt 45 malt liquor and National Bohemian beer; failing to alert emergency agencies promptly of an ammonia leak totaling 8,000 pounds at its Halethorpe brewery last December; $33,250.
* Esskay Inc.; violating regulations on use and disposal of polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, at its meatpacking plant at 3800 E. Baltimore St. before the plant closed in May; $33,000.
* H. G. Parks Inc.; failing to report two years ago that it stored ammonia and other hazardous chemicals at its sausage plant in Northwest Baltimore; $27,900.
* Parker Metal Decorating Co. Inc., maker of tin plate for food cans and other containers; failing to report releases of two toxic chemicals from its South Baltimore plant; $27,304.
"EPA cannot achieve its mission to protect human health and the environment unless companies . . . supply complete and accurate data," Steven A. Herman, assistant administrator for enforcement in the EPA's regional office in Philadelphia, said in a news release last week.
Later, the agency was accused of mangling the facts.
"They got it all screwed up," said Jerry Alvey, plant engineer for Heileman's brewery.
He said that all necessary agencies were contacted within hours of the discovery of the ammonia leak.
At Parker Metal, which was accused by the EPA of not filing reports for 1989 through 1991 on routine releases of the toxic chemicals xylene and methyl isobutyl ketone, President Winslow H. Parker Jr. said, "I'm astounded. This is just out of the blue."
He said that the company did file a report for 1989 and that reports for the next two years were delayed and filed this year because the EPA's requirements changed.
The company did not learn of the change until February, Mr. Parker said.
"When they told us what the revised criteria were, we promptly filed our reports."
The third company to dispute the charges was H. G. Parks.
An executive there said the company is being penalized -- two years after the fact -- for missing a reporting deadline by a few weeks.
Mark Sheubrooks, vice president for finance, said that Parks notified local fire and emergency officials about its stockpile of 6,000 pounds of ammonia, 142,000 pounds of nitrogen and 100,00 pounds of carbon dioxide a few weeks after two EPA representatives visited the plant in March 1991.
"There's a difference between reporting and fully reporting," said Carrie Dietzel, an EPA spokeswoman.
"Missing deadlines or only notifying one or two of the authorities does not constitute full reporting," Ms. Dietzel said.
As for the charge that the EPA failed to get the facts straight before moving against the companies, she said, "Our attorneys generally do their homework before they go ahead and file these complaints."
The five businesses have 20 days to answer the charges and can ask for a hearing or negotiate the size of the penalty.
The Baltimore Sun
Recent bankruptcy filings in U.S. District Court in Baltimore. Assets: $7,800. Liabilities: $22,858. April 3 Parker Metal Decorating Co. Inc., 1301 S. Howard St., Baltimore. Lithography and metal decorating company filed for Chapter 11. President: Winslow H. Parker Jr. Assets: $1,598,094. Liabilities: $1,332,961.
Editors Note: Mr. "Jay" Parker was the former Town Manager in Princess Anne. It's my understanding he wants to run for an elected seat.
Starving The Beast
Joe.....
Interesting entry on Facebook. What if every company in America chose to pick a certain date to simultaneously stop witholding federal payroll taxes from employees pay? Is this something we can do to stop the Federal Government from spending us into non-existence? If we all did something like this until the Federal Government stopped spending any money on anything except that which is constitutionally authorized, would it be enough to pull us out of this? I think it would. What if it were called Starving the Beast?
CHECK IT OUT HERE.
Interesting entry on Facebook. What if every company in America chose to pick a certain date to simultaneously stop witholding federal payroll taxes from employees pay? Is this something we can do to stop the Federal Government from spending us into non-existence? If we all did something like this until the Federal Government stopped spending any money on anything except that which is constitutionally authorized, would it be enough to pull us out of this? I think it would. What if it were called Starving the Beast?
CHECK IT OUT HERE.
Legg Mason To Cut 250 Jobs In Baltimore Area
Layoffs will affect 30 percent of the local work force as money manager moves work to affiliates across the globe
Money manager Legg Mason Inc. said Monday that it will cut 250 jobs in the Baltimore area — 30 percent of its local work force — in an effort to boost profits by shipping the work to affiliates around the world.
Most of the layoffs will be achieved by shutting down the company's Owings Mills offices, with the rest of the job cuts at its brand-new building on the city's waterfront in Harbor East. The move will bring the company's Baltimore-area employment to about 550 — a drastic drop from just two years ago, when nearly 1,000 people worked here.
Legg Mason officials expect the layoffs will happen over the next six to 18 months and that investment operations, billing, accounting and similar back-office jobs will be affected. That work will be handled by affiliates elsewhere in the country and overseas "to take it closer to the client," Chief Executive Officer Mark Fetting said.
GO HERE to read more.
Money manager Legg Mason Inc. said Monday that it will cut 250 jobs in the Baltimore area — 30 percent of its local work force — in an effort to boost profits by shipping the work to affiliates around the world.
Most of the layoffs will be achieved by shutting down the company's Owings Mills offices, with the rest of the job cuts at its brand-new building on the city's waterfront in Harbor East. The move will bring the company's Baltimore-area employment to about 550 — a drastic drop from just two years ago, when nearly 1,000 people worked here.
Legg Mason officials expect the layoffs will happen over the next six to 18 months and that investment operations, billing, accounting and similar back-office jobs will be affected. That work will be handled by affiliates elsewhere in the country and overseas "to take it closer to the client," Chief Executive Officer Mark Fetting said.
GO HERE to read more.
Since The Wicomico Board Of Education Won't Tell You, I Will
The regularly scheduled BOE Meeting tonight has been rescheduled for some time during the day today instead. Everyone from the BOE wants to be present in masses to Rick Pollitt's Budget Meeting tonight at the Civic Center, as if the Teachers and Staff will be able to make a difference.
Maybe Mr. Thompson can get up there again grandstand, yelling at everyone in the room to "SHUT UP" as if he was some kind of tough guy. Me personally, (if it were legal) It made me feel like smacking the guy around because he was treating everyone with NO RESPECT. Like a THUG. Like a KID who gets suspended because he's out of line and out of order.
It should make for a fun evening. When I get the time of the rescheduled meeting, (the BOE refuses to put it on their Website) I'll post it.
UPDATE: The meeting will be open to the public at 1:30 PM.
GREAT TRUTHS THAT ADULTS HAVE LEARNED:
1) Raising teenagers is as easy as nailing jelly to a tree.
2) Wrinkles don't hurt.
3) Families are like fudge...mostly sweet, with a few nuts
4) Today's mighty oak is just yesterday's nut that held its ground...
5) Laughing is good exercise. It's like jogging on the inside.
6) Middle age is when you choose your cereal for the fiber, not the toy..
2) Wrinkles don't hurt.
3) Families are like fudge...mostly sweet, with a few nuts
4) Today's mighty oak is just yesterday's nut that held its ground...
5) Laughing is good exercise. It's like jogging on the inside.
6) Middle age is when you choose your cereal for the fiber, not the toy..
GREAT TRUTHS THAT LITTLE CHILDREN HAVE LEARNED
1) No matter how hard you try, you can't baptize cats..
2) When your Mom is mad at your Dad, don't let her brush your hair.
3) If your sister hits you, don't hit her back. They always catch the second person.
4) Never ask your 3-year old brother to hold a tomato.
5) You can't trust dogs to watch your food..
6) Don't sneeze when someone is cutting your hair..
7) Never hold a Dust-Buster and a cat at the same time.
8) You can't hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk.
9) Don't wear polka-dot underwear under white shorts.
10) The best place to be when you're sad is Grandma's lap.
2) When your Mom is mad at your Dad, don't let her brush your hair.
3) If your sister hits you, don't hit her back. They always catch the second person.
4) Never ask your 3-year old brother to hold a tomato.
5) You can't trust dogs to watch your food..
6) Don't sneeze when someone is cutting your hair..
7) Never hold a Dust-Buster and a cat at the same time.
8) You can't hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk.
9) Don't wear polka-dot underwear under white shorts.
10) The best place to be when you're sad is Grandma's lap.
Barack Obama Has Awakened A Sleeping Nation
Barack Obama is the best thing that has happened to America in the last 100 years. Truly, he is the savior of America's future. He is the best thing ever.
Despite the fact that he has some of the lowest approval ratings among recent presidents, history will see Barack Obama as the source of America's resurrection. Barack Obama has plunged the country into levels of debt that we could not have previously imagined; his efforts to nationalize health care have been met with fierce resistance nationwide; TARP bailouts and stimulus spending have shown little positive effect on the national economy; unemployment is unacceptably high and looks to remain that way for most of a decade; legacy entitlement programs have ballooned to unsustainable levels, and there is a seething anger in the populace.
That's why Barack Obama is such a good thing for America.
Obama is the symbol of a creeping liberalism that has infected our society like a cancer for the last 100 years. Just as Hitler is the face of fascism, Obama will go down in history as the face of unchecked liberalism. The cancer metastasized to the point where it could no longer be ignored.
GO HERE to read more.
Despite the fact that he has some of the lowest approval ratings among recent presidents, history will see Barack Obama as the source of America's resurrection. Barack Obama has plunged the country into levels of debt that we could not have previously imagined; his efforts to nationalize health care have been met with fierce resistance nationwide; TARP bailouts and stimulus spending have shown little positive effect on the national economy; unemployment is unacceptably high and looks to remain that way for most of a decade; legacy entitlement programs have ballooned to unsustainable levels, and there is a seething anger in the populace.
That's why Barack Obama is such a good thing for America.
Obama is the symbol of a creeping liberalism that has infected our society like a cancer for the last 100 years. Just as Hitler is the face of fascism, Obama will go down in history as the face of unchecked liberalism. The cancer metastasized to the point where it could no longer be ignored.
GO HERE to read more.
Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Releases
Incident: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 7 May 2010
Location: U.S. 13 S/B at Coulbourn Mill Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Brandon L. King, 26, New York, NY
Narrative: On 7 May 2010 at 3:13 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle operated by Brandon King of New York for speeding on U.S. 13.During the stop a WCSO drug K9 team arrived and scanned the vehicle for the presence of the odor of illegal drugs, during which the K9 gave a positive alert. The deputy searched the vehicle and located what he recognized as marijuana inside a metal container in the passenger compartment.
The deputy placed King under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained King in the Detention Center in lieu of $3,000.00 bond.
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 7 May 2010
Location: 23000 block of Nanticoke Road, Quantico, MD
Suspect: John R. Cleary, 56, Quantico, MD
Narrative: On 7 May 2010 at 5:44 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to investigate a disturbance at a residence in the 23000 block of Nanticoke Road in Quantico. Upon arrival the deputy learned that a female resident there had been assaulted by a male relative who resides in the same house. The victim stated that she was only engaged in routine activities when John Cleary became enraged and pushed her down. The victim told the deputy that she was scared of Cleary and that the assault had upset her extremely. The victim and other family members told the deputy that Cleary had been sniffing paint thinner all day and was obviously affected by it. While speaking with Cleary the deputy detected a strong and pungent odor of paint thinner emitting from Cleary’s person and he appeared visibly under the influence.
The deputy placed Cleary under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Cleary was detained by the Commissioner in lieu of $15,000.00 bond.
Charges: Assault 2nd degree
Incident: Possession of Counterfeit Merchandise
Date of Incident: 7 May 2010
Location: U.S. 13 S/B at Ocean Gateway, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Kenneth L. Quailes, 39, Seaford, DE
Narrative: On 7 May 2010 at 7:44 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle operated by Kenneth L. Quailes of Seaford on U.S. 13 in Salisbury. During the course of the traffic stop the deputy obtained Probable Cause to search the interior of Quailes’ vehicle. During the search, the deputy opened a plastic tub and located what the deputy recognized as 62 counterfeit DVD’s and 93 counterfeit Compact Disks. The deputy was able to determine their lack of authenticity due to their poor quality packaging. Also some of the DVD’s were from movies that were still in theaters and not yet scheduled for DVD release. Due to the quantity seized and the duplicity of some of the titles, it was evident the DVD’s and CD’s were intended for sale or distribution.
The deputy placed Quailes under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Quailes in the Detention Center in lieu of $15,000.00 bond.
Charges: Possession with the Intent to Sell/ Distribute Counterfeit Items/Goods
Incident: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 9 May 2010
Location: Onley Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Male Juvenile, 17 YOA, Hurlock, MD
Narrative: On 9 May 2010 at 3:58 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle for running the stop sign at Onley Street and Perry Drive. Upon contacting the occupants, the deputy smelled the odor of burning marijuana. Upon further investigation, the deputy located both marijuana and a smoking device in the possession of a 17 year old juvenile passenger.
The deputy placed the juvenile under arrest and transported him to the Sheriff’s Office. After processing the juvenile was released to his mother pending formal adjudication from the Department of Juvenile Services.
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Incident: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Date of Incident: 8 May 2010
Location: Old Ocean City Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Ashley Nicole Bounds, 22, Willards, MD
Narrative: On 8 May 2010 at 2:31 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle operated by Ashley Bounds for speeding on Old Ocean City Road. Upon contacting Bounds, the deputy detected an odor of alcohol emanating from her breath and person. After the administration of roadside field sobriety tests, the deputy placed Bounds under arrest for Driving Under the influence of Alcohol. During further processing, the deputy learned that Bounds Maryland Driver’s License and Privilege was suspended.
Bounds was charged and released on citations.
Charges: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Driving While Impaired by Alcohol
Driving While Suspended
Wargotz ON THE AIR. ‘Our Common Defense’ Addresses
Illegal Immigration, Energy and Appeasement.
Eric Wargotz, an elected member of the Queens Anne’s County Board of Commissioners and a candidate for US Senate from Maryland released the first of the campaign’s, “Eric on the Issues” radio ads, which began airing on talk radio stations around the state. Wargotz, a physician, is seeking the Republican nomination for the seat currently held by four term incumbent Senator, Barbara Mikulski.
In the spot titled, “Our Common Defense,” Wargotz takes issue with Washington’s handling of illegal immigration. “While illegal immigrants flood across our borders, Washington holds the door,” he says. To address the problem, he plans to, “crackdown on employers who hire illegals and attract them across the border like a magnet.”
Wargotz says our energy needs are being held hostage to terrorist nations, while, “Washington sacrifices our liberty in the name of public safety.” He pledges to support policies which make use of our natural resources here at home to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.
Commissioner Wargotz concludes by saying that he, “will not coddle terrorists with civilian trials, while Washington wallows in political correctness and the policies of appeasement.”
The spot, which began airing Last month, is the first in a series designed to highlight the cornerstones of the campaign. In the coming weeks, health care, the economy and the environment will also be addressed.
More information can be found on the campaign website at www.Wargotz.com.
Eric Wargotz, an elected member of the Queens Anne’s County Board of Commissioners and a candidate for US Senate from Maryland released the first of the campaign’s, “Eric on the Issues” radio ads, which began airing on talk radio stations around the state. Wargotz, a physician, is seeking the Republican nomination for the seat currently held by four term incumbent Senator, Barbara Mikulski.
In the spot titled, “Our Common Defense,” Wargotz takes issue with Washington’s handling of illegal immigration. “While illegal immigrants flood across our borders, Washington holds the door,” he says. To address the problem, he plans to, “crackdown on employers who hire illegals and attract them across the border like a magnet.”
Wargotz says our energy needs are being held hostage to terrorist nations, while, “Washington sacrifices our liberty in the name of public safety.” He pledges to support policies which make use of our natural resources here at home to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.
Commissioner Wargotz concludes by saying that he, “will not coddle terrorists with civilian trials, while Washington wallows in political correctness and the policies of appeasement.”
The spot, which began airing Last month, is the first in a series designed to highlight the cornerstones of the campaign. In the coming weeks, health care, the economy and the environment will also be addressed.
More information can be found on the campaign website at www.Wargotz.com.
HIGH SCHOOL 1957 vs. 2010
Scenario 1:
Jack goes quail hunting before school and then pulls into the school parking lot with his shotgun in his truck's gun rack.
1957 - Vice Principal comes over, looks at Jack's shotgun, goes to his car and gets his shotgun to show Jack.
2010 - School goes into lock down, FBI called, Jack hauled off to jail and never sees his truck or gun again. Counselors called in for traumatized students and teachers.
Scenario 2:
Johnny and Mark get into a fist fight after school.
1957 - Crowd gathers. Mark wins. Johnny and Mark shake hands and end up buddies.
2010 - Police called and SWAT team arrives -- they arrest both Johnny and Mark. They are both charged with assault and both expelled even though Johnny started it.
Scenario 3:
Jeffrey will not be still in class, he disrupts other students.
1957 - Jeffrey sent to the Principal's office and given a good paddling by the Principal. He then returns to class, sits still and does not disrupt class again.
2010 - Jeffrey is given huge doses of Ritalin. He becomes a zombie. He is then tested for ADD. The family gets extra money (SSI) from the government because Jeffrey has a disability.
Scenario 4:
Billy breaks a window in his neighbor's car and his Dad gives him a whipping with his belt.
1957 - Billy is more careful next time, grows up normal, goes to college and becomes a successful businessman.
2010 - Billy's dad is arrested for child abuse. Billy is removed to foster care and joins a gang. The state psychologist is told by Billy's sister that she remembers being abused herself and their dad goes to prison. Billy's mom has an affair with the psychologist.
Scenario 5:
Mark gets a headache and takes some aspirin to school..
1957 - Mark shares his aspirin with the Principal out on the smoking dock
2010 - The police are called and Mark is expelled from school for drug violations. His car is then searched for drugs and weapons.
Scenario 6:
Pedro fails high school English.
1957 - Pedro goes to summer school, passes English and goes to college.
2010 - Pedro's cause is taken up by state. Newspaper articles appear nationally explaining that teaching English as a requirement for graduation is racist. ACLU files class action lawsuit against the state school system and Pedro's English teacher. English is then banned from core curriculum.
Pedro is given his diploma anyway but ends up mowing lawns for a living because he cannot speak English.
Scenario 7:
Johnny takes apart leftover firecrackers from the Fourth of July, puts them in a model airplane paint bottle and blows up a red ant bed.
1957 - Ants die.
2010 - ATF, Homeland Security and the FBI are all called. Johnny is charged with domestic terrorism. The FBI investigates his parents -- and all siblings are removed from their home and all computers are confiscated.
Johnny's dad is placed on a terror watch list and is never allowed to fly again.
Scenario 8:
Johnny falls while running during recess and scrapes his knee He is found crying by his teacher, Mary. Mary hugs him to comfort him.
1957 - In a short time, Johnny feels better and goes on playing.
2010 - Mary is accused of being a sexual predator and loses her job.
She faces 3 years in State Prison. Johnny undergoes 5 years of therapy.
Jack goes quail hunting before school and then pulls into the school parking lot with his shotgun in his truck's gun rack.
1957 - Vice Principal comes over, looks at Jack's shotgun, goes to his car and gets his shotgun to show Jack.
2010 - School goes into lock down, FBI called, Jack hauled off to jail and never sees his truck or gun again. Counselors called in for traumatized students and teachers.
Scenario 2:
Johnny and Mark get into a fist fight after school.
1957 - Crowd gathers. Mark wins. Johnny and Mark shake hands and end up buddies.
2010 - Police called and SWAT team arrives -- they arrest both Johnny and Mark. They are both charged with assault and both expelled even though Johnny started it.
Scenario 3:
Jeffrey will not be still in class, he disrupts other students.
1957 - Jeffrey sent to the Principal's office and given a good paddling by the Principal. He then returns to class, sits still and does not disrupt class again.
2010 - Jeffrey is given huge doses of Ritalin. He becomes a zombie. He is then tested for ADD. The family gets extra money (SSI) from the government because Jeffrey has a disability.
Scenario 4:
Billy breaks a window in his neighbor's car and his Dad gives him a whipping with his belt.
1957 - Billy is more careful next time, grows up normal, goes to college and becomes a successful businessman.
2010 - Billy's dad is arrested for child abuse. Billy is removed to foster care and joins a gang. The state psychologist is told by Billy's sister that she remembers being abused herself and their dad goes to prison. Billy's mom has an affair with the psychologist.
Scenario 5:
Mark gets a headache and takes some aspirin to school..
1957 - Mark shares his aspirin with the Principal out on the smoking dock
2010 - The police are called and Mark is expelled from school for drug violations. His car is then searched for drugs and weapons.
Scenario 6:
Pedro fails high school English.
1957 - Pedro goes to summer school, passes English and goes to college.
2010 - Pedro's cause is taken up by state. Newspaper articles appear nationally explaining that teaching English as a requirement for graduation is racist. ACLU files class action lawsuit against the state school system and Pedro's English teacher. English is then banned from core curriculum.
Pedro is given his diploma anyway but ends up mowing lawns for a living because he cannot speak English.
Scenario 7:
Johnny takes apart leftover firecrackers from the Fourth of July, puts them in a model airplane paint bottle and blows up a red ant bed.
1957 - Ants die.
2010 - ATF, Homeland Security and the FBI are all called. Johnny is charged with domestic terrorism. The FBI investigates his parents -- and all siblings are removed from their home and all computers are confiscated.
Johnny's dad is placed on a terror watch list and is never allowed to fly again.
Scenario 8:
Johnny falls while running during recess and scrapes his knee He is found crying by his teacher, Mary. Mary hugs him to comfort him.
1957 - In a short time, Johnny feels better and goes on playing.
2010 - Mary is accused of being a sexual predator and loses her job.
She faces 3 years in State Prison. Johnny undergoes 5 years of therapy.
Salisbury, Stevenson Join "Group of Death"
When the NCAA Division III men’s lacrosse bracket was revealed late Sunday night, Salisbury and Stevenson learned that they will be playing in the sport’s version of "The Group of Death."
The Sea Gulls, the top seed in the South region, and the Mustangs, the No. 2 seed, are included in a portion of the tournament that is is loaded with six of the top 10 teams in the most recent United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association poll.
Besides Stevenson, which is ranked No. 1, and Salisbury, which is No. 2, No. 3 Gettysburg is the third seed, and No. 5 Roanoke, No. 7 Dickinson and No. 9 Cabrini are unseeded. No. 14 Denison is also unseeded, while No. 17 Haverford, which upended Gettysburg to capture the Centennial Conference tournament championship, is the fourth seed.
The six top-10 teams have a combined win-loss record of 94-11 (an .895 winning percentage), and when you add Denison and Haverford, the mark grows to 115-19 (.858).
Meanwhile, reigning national champion and North region No. 1 seed Cortland needs to only get past No. 6 Tufts (the second seed) and No. 8 Connecticut College (the fourth seed) to advance to the championship final.
Sea Gulls coach Jim Berkman acknowledged the obstacles in the path to playing at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore on Memorial Day weekend.
"I’ve been doing this for a long time, and we’ve had some good draws at times, and we’ve had some not-so-friendly draws," Berkman said. "We’ve come to the conclusion that if you’re going to be a champion, you’ve got to beat everybody. You can’t let it irriate you that three of the top four teams are in the South. It is what it is, and you’ve got to deal with it."
Mustangs coach Paul Cantabene chuckled slightly when asked about the level of competition in the South region.
"It’s a really tough region," he said. "And then you throw in Roanoke and Cabrini and Dickinson, it’s a really, really tough draw. There’s a lot of great games in there and you’re going to have to play your best lacrosse to get through it. Goalies are going to have to play well, and you’re going to have to face-off well. Whoever gets out of this region is going to be one heck of a team."
Berkman pointed out that with such a loaded field in the South, the team that emerges from the scrum to play in the national title game might be battered and bruised.
"The South is definitely loaded, and hopefully, the South doesn’t beat themselves up so bad that when whoever gets there, they haven’t lost all of their edge," he said.
Source
The Sea Gulls, the top seed in the South region, and the Mustangs, the No. 2 seed, are included in a portion of the tournament that is is loaded with six of the top 10 teams in the most recent United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association poll.
Besides Stevenson, which is ranked No. 1, and Salisbury, which is No. 2, No. 3 Gettysburg is the third seed, and No. 5 Roanoke, No. 7 Dickinson and No. 9 Cabrini are unseeded. No. 14 Denison is also unseeded, while No. 17 Haverford, which upended Gettysburg to capture the Centennial Conference tournament championship, is the fourth seed.
The six top-10 teams have a combined win-loss record of 94-11 (an .895 winning percentage), and when you add Denison and Haverford, the mark grows to 115-19 (.858).
Meanwhile, reigning national champion and North region No. 1 seed Cortland needs to only get past No. 6 Tufts (the second seed) and No. 8 Connecticut College (the fourth seed) to advance to the championship final.
Sea Gulls coach Jim Berkman acknowledged the obstacles in the path to playing at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore on Memorial Day weekend.
"I’ve been doing this for a long time, and we’ve had some good draws at times, and we’ve had some not-so-friendly draws," Berkman said. "We’ve come to the conclusion that if you’re going to be a champion, you’ve got to beat everybody. You can’t let it irriate you that three of the top four teams are in the South. It is what it is, and you’ve got to deal with it."
Mustangs coach Paul Cantabene chuckled slightly when asked about the level of competition in the South region.
"It’s a really tough region," he said. "And then you throw in Roanoke and Cabrini and Dickinson, it’s a really, really tough draw. There’s a lot of great games in there and you’re going to have to play your best lacrosse to get through it. Goalies are going to have to play well, and you’re going to have to face-off well. Whoever gets out of this region is going to be one heck of a team."
Berkman pointed out that with such a loaded field in the South, the team that emerges from the scrum to play in the national title game might be battered and bruised.
"The South is definitely loaded, and hopefully, the South doesn’t beat themselves up so bad that when whoever gets there, they haven’t lost all of their edge," he said.
Source
RIVERDOGS TAKE FINALE 4-3 AND WIN SERIES
Shorebirds Play Next Eight Games Away from Home
Salisbury, Md. – The Delmarva Shorebirds fell behind and couldn’t recover as the RiverDogs took the finale, 4-3, on Monday afternoon at Perdue Stadium.
The RiverDogs went in front in the fourth inning. Rob Lyerly started the frame with a double. Two batters later, DeAngelo Mack hit a high fly ball deep to left field that Steve Bumbry dropped on the warning track to plate Lyerly. Then, Emerson Landoni reached on a fielding error by Ty Kelly. He came into score on a double down the left field line by Francisco Arcia.
The ‘Dogs tacked on two more runs in the fifth against Ryan Berry. Ray Kruml hit a leadoff single. After two outs were recorded, Luke Murton connected on his fifth home run of the season to push the lead to 4-0.
The Shorebirds responded in the home half of the fifth. Garabez Rosa hit a line drive to third that was mishandled by Rob Lyerly. T.J. Baxter then reached on a fielder’s choice. With two on, Ty Kelly hit a sharp liner to right-center field that plated both runners.
The Shorebirds pulled within one run in the eighth. Steve Bumbry roped a double to left-center to open the frame. Bumbry moved to third on a single by Tyler Stampone. Then, Mikey Planeta delivered a sacrifice fly to left field to score Bumbry and trim the deficit to 4-3.
Steve Black earned the win for Charleston. He tossed four innings and allowed two unearned runs. Ryan Berry was pinned with the loss in five innings of work.
The Shorebirds play the Kannapolis Intimidators on Wednesday night at 7:05 p.m.
Salisbury, Md. – The Delmarva Shorebirds fell behind and couldn’t recover as the RiverDogs took the finale, 4-3, on Monday afternoon at Perdue Stadium.
The RiverDogs went in front in the fourth inning. Rob Lyerly started the frame with a double. Two batters later, DeAngelo Mack hit a high fly ball deep to left field that Steve Bumbry dropped on the warning track to plate Lyerly. Then, Emerson Landoni reached on a fielding error by Ty Kelly. He came into score on a double down the left field line by Francisco Arcia.
The ‘Dogs tacked on two more runs in the fifth against Ryan Berry. Ray Kruml hit a leadoff single. After two outs were recorded, Luke Murton connected on his fifth home run of the season to push the lead to 4-0.
The Shorebirds responded in the home half of the fifth. Garabez Rosa hit a line drive to third that was mishandled by Rob Lyerly. T.J. Baxter then reached on a fielder’s choice. With two on, Ty Kelly hit a sharp liner to right-center field that plated both runners.
The Shorebirds pulled within one run in the eighth. Steve Bumbry roped a double to left-center to open the frame. Bumbry moved to third on a single by Tyler Stampone. Then, Mikey Planeta delivered a sacrifice fly to left field to score Bumbry and trim the deficit to 4-3.
Steve Black earned the win for Charleston. He tossed four innings and allowed two unearned runs. Ryan Berry was pinned with the loss in five innings of work.
The Shorebirds play the Kannapolis Intimidators on Wednesday night at 7:05 p.m.
Who Will Fernando Fight Next?
In this post I took care not to speak to Camp Guerrero. The reasoning behind this move was to allow myself to think outside of conventional wisdom when it comes to the subject matter. Instead, I am taking a large net approach to the question at hand. I'm going to name boxers Fernando Guerrero will never face, for a multitude of reasons.
To begin I need to state that I am only looking at opponents in the Middleweight division, which is from 154.1-160 pounds. Guerrero has actually fought as high as 168 1/2 pounds, which is Super Middleweight country. It is possible that he could fight more matches north of the Middleweight border, but I think it is unlikely.
That being said, I also need to remove champions and top contenders. I do not think Guerrero will be taking on the likes of WBC and WBO Champion Sergio Gabriel Martinez, WBA Champ Felix Sturm, IBF Champion Sebastian Sylvester or top contenders Kelly Pavlik and Roman Karmazin. I do believe Fernando has the talent to possibly upset some of these guys, but probably not the seasoning, yet.
I also should rule out the up-and-comer versus up-and-comer scenario. Boxers spend a lot time building their rep, fan base, rankings and size of their paychecks. Taking on other prospects on your way to a title shot is a quick way to lose a match and fall out of favor with the rankings gods. For now, I do not believe it would be beneficial for Fernando Guerrero to take on guys like Daniel Jacobs, Shawn Porter, Andy Lee or Craig McEwan. As a fan, all of these matches would be pure joy to watch, but from a business standpoint it doesn't make a whole lot of sense to put so much on the line for a relatively small payday. No, he should fight these guys for a title (if they earn one), defending his major title (if he earns one) or as a way to make a lot of money in a later career match, much the same way Mike Tyson cashed out against Lennox Lewis late in his career.
So what does this leave?
Faded veterans. These are boxers that have been around for several years and have normally fought for a title and/or been considered as a top contender at one time in their career. They have most likely lost some speed or strength, but still retain an elite level of boxing knowledge coming from a long career in the pros and amateurs. There are some things in life and boxing that have to be "caught", not taught. Fighting a faded veteran is a dangerous prospect, but the yield in ring knowledge is priceless.
Angel Hernandez (30-7, 17 KOs). Hernandez was once a promising prospect. In 2003 he unsuccessfully fought Ronald "Winky" Wright for the IBF Light Middleweight title. After that bout he also lost his next match, then took two years off and has gone 4-1 since. On May 22nd, he'll be taking on Peter Manfredo, Jr. (34-6, 18 KOs), who is the next person on the list of potentials. Manfredo, you might recall, fought on the boxing reality series "The Contender", losing in the finals to Sergio Mora. Manfredo holds some cache with the boxing public, has fought for a title and would be a very tough opponent for Fernando Guerrero to fight at this point in his career. I expect him to beat Hernandez, and if he does a fight with him would be something I think Showtime would be interested in broadcasting.
Carlos Manuel Baldomir (45-12-6, 14 KOs) would be an interesting match. In 2006, after a career in obscurity, Baldomir beat Zab Judah and Arturo Gatti in back-to-back matches, before being defeated by Floyd Mayweather, Jr. In 2005 Zab Judah had won all three major titles WBA-WBC-IBF and was known as the undisputed Welterweight champion. The sanctioning bodies didn't want Judah to fight a "walk over" match like Baldomir and told Judah to either fight their number one contender or give up his belts. He continued with the bout so both the IBF and WBA stripped him of their titles. Baldomir proved them and everyone else wrong when he beat Judah by an unanimous decision. People called it a fluke, but then he backed it up with a knockout victory over Arturo Gatti. Since his heady days of 2006, Baldomir has retired once and had a successful comeback fight. His post-2006 record stands at 2-2. At 5'7" he would be one of the few boxers on this list shorter than Fernando Guerrero.
Some other ring veterans to consider are: Howard Eastman, Sam Soliman, Keith Holmes, Bronco McKart and Antwun Echols.
Failed Prospects. These are guys that once had the attention of the boxing world. They were on their way to becoming the future of their weight class and/or the sport as a whole, but something happened and they were unable to fulfill the potential the experts had predicted. Perhaps they weren't as good as the talking heads thought? Perhaps success got to their head? Maybe their first $100,000 paycheck turned them from a gym rat into a lazy Joe Cool hanging out flashing the cash instead of doing the road work? There are a number of reasons prospects stray from the potential we foist upon them...
Matt Vanda (42-11, KOs 22) was once 31-0 with the world at his feet. Now he finds himself with an 11-11 record since his initial loss and coming off of two consecutive losses. He will fight Ivan Ledon (12-11-1, 11 KOs) on June 11th to try to right the ship. If he does could a match with Fernando be next? I'd certainly pick Guerrero to win, but Vanda has only been knocked out once, so I think he'd hang around and give him a good tussle.
The third group of fighters Team Guererro could consider for his next match is the tough or elite club fighter. These are guys that have talent, but will likely never get a title shot (or another title shot) or be ranked (at all or again). Some people call them "gate keepers", as they make a living fighting at a fairly consistent level from just outside of the top 20 up to the top 50. If a prospect wants to become a contender he must usually beat many of these guys on his ascent. I consider Michael Walker and Tyrone Watson as good examples of tough gatekeepers. Unfortunately, there are a number of these guys in the world. Certainly some of those I listed above also fall into this category. Here are a few more: Affif Belghecham, Willie Gibbs, Ruben Silva Diaz, Ruben Varon, Darnell Boone, Juan Astorga, Jose Miguel Rodriguez Berrio and George Walton.
To predict the exact person Team Guerrero will choose for his next contest with any level of certainty is a bit of a fool's errand. He is an up-and-coming presence in boxing, a future contender that a ton of people would love to fight. Guerrero is quickly becoming a guy those with no current path to a title shot would love to fight. Toppling him and his undefeated record would be quite a feather in the cap and likely lead to better paying fights for the victor. Given his talent and the awesome fan base he has in Salisbury, out-of-town fighters also see dollar signs and would love to be on a main event with a guy that can pack the house, while being showcased on Showtime.
The only downside I can see in Fernando Guerrero is he might be too good to attract some fights. Why would a top ten contender risk his position and possible future title match against an elite hungry fighter like Guerrero? Luckily, Fernando Guerrero has another year or two to go before he has to enter the contender fray, until then it will definitely be interesting to see which opponents his team puts before him and how he handles them.
To begin I need to state that I am only looking at opponents in the Middleweight division, which is from 154.1-160 pounds. Guerrero has actually fought as high as 168 1/2 pounds, which is Super Middleweight country. It is possible that he could fight more matches north of the Middleweight border, but I think it is unlikely.
That being said, I also need to remove champions and top contenders. I do not think Guerrero will be taking on the likes of WBC and WBO Champion Sergio Gabriel Martinez, WBA Champ Felix Sturm, IBF Champion Sebastian Sylvester or top contenders Kelly Pavlik and Roman Karmazin. I do believe Fernando has the talent to possibly upset some of these guys, but probably not the seasoning, yet.
I also should rule out the up-and-comer versus up-and-comer scenario. Boxers spend a lot time building their rep, fan base, rankings and size of their paychecks. Taking on other prospects on your way to a title shot is a quick way to lose a match and fall out of favor with the rankings gods. For now, I do not believe it would be beneficial for Fernando Guerrero to take on guys like Daniel Jacobs, Shawn Porter, Andy Lee or Craig McEwan. As a fan, all of these matches would be pure joy to watch, but from a business standpoint it doesn't make a whole lot of sense to put so much on the line for a relatively small payday. No, he should fight these guys for a title (if they earn one), defending his major title (if he earns one) or as a way to make a lot of money in a later career match, much the same way Mike Tyson cashed out against Lennox Lewis late in his career.
So what does this leave?
Faded veterans. These are boxers that have been around for several years and have normally fought for a title and/or been considered as a top contender at one time in their career. They have most likely lost some speed or strength, but still retain an elite level of boxing knowledge coming from a long career in the pros and amateurs. There are some things in life and boxing that have to be "caught", not taught. Fighting a faded veteran is a dangerous prospect, but the yield in ring knowledge is priceless.
Angel Hernandez (30-7, 17 KOs). Hernandez was once a promising prospect. In 2003 he unsuccessfully fought Ronald "Winky" Wright for the IBF Light Middleweight title. After that bout he also lost his next match, then took two years off and has gone 4-1 since. On May 22nd, he'll be taking on Peter Manfredo, Jr. (34-6, 18 KOs), who is the next person on the list of potentials. Manfredo, you might recall, fought on the boxing reality series "The Contender", losing in the finals to Sergio Mora. Manfredo holds some cache with the boxing public, has fought for a title and would be a very tough opponent for Fernando Guerrero to fight at this point in his career. I expect him to beat Hernandez, and if he does a fight with him would be something I think Showtime would be interested in broadcasting.
Carlos Manuel Baldomir (45-12-6, 14 KOs) would be an interesting match. In 2006, after a career in obscurity, Baldomir beat Zab Judah and Arturo Gatti in back-to-back matches, before being defeated by Floyd Mayweather, Jr. In 2005 Zab Judah had won all three major titles WBA-WBC-IBF and was known as the undisputed Welterweight champion. The sanctioning bodies didn't want Judah to fight a "walk over" match like Baldomir and told Judah to either fight their number one contender or give up his belts. He continued with the bout so both the IBF and WBA stripped him of their titles. Baldomir proved them and everyone else wrong when he beat Judah by an unanimous decision. People called it a fluke, but then he backed it up with a knockout victory over Arturo Gatti. Since his heady days of 2006, Baldomir has retired once and had a successful comeback fight. His post-2006 record stands at 2-2. At 5'7" he would be one of the few boxers on this list shorter than Fernando Guerrero.
Some other ring veterans to consider are: Howard Eastman, Sam Soliman, Keith Holmes, Bronco McKart and Antwun Echols.
Failed Prospects. These are guys that once had the attention of the boxing world. They were on their way to becoming the future of their weight class and/or the sport as a whole, but something happened and they were unable to fulfill the potential the experts had predicted. Perhaps they weren't as good as the talking heads thought? Perhaps success got to their head? Maybe their first $100,000 paycheck turned them from a gym rat into a lazy Joe Cool hanging out flashing the cash instead of doing the road work? There are a number of reasons prospects stray from the potential we foist upon them...
Matt Vanda (42-11, KOs 22) was once 31-0 with the world at his feet. Now he finds himself with an 11-11 record since his initial loss and coming off of two consecutive losses. He will fight Ivan Ledon (12-11-1, 11 KOs) on June 11th to try to right the ship. If he does could a match with Fernando be next? I'd certainly pick Guerrero to win, but Vanda has only been knocked out once, so I think he'd hang around and give him a good tussle.
The third group of fighters Team Guererro could consider for his next match is the tough or elite club fighter. These are guys that have talent, but will likely never get a title shot (or another title shot) or be ranked (at all or again). Some people call them "gate keepers", as they make a living fighting at a fairly consistent level from just outside of the top 20 up to the top 50. If a prospect wants to become a contender he must usually beat many of these guys on his ascent. I consider Michael Walker and Tyrone Watson as good examples of tough gatekeepers. Unfortunately, there are a number of these guys in the world. Certainly some of those I listed above also fall into this category. Here are a few more: Affif Belghecham, Willie Gibbs, Ruben Silva Diaz, Ruben Varon, Darnell Boone, Juan Astorga, Jose Miguel Rodriguez Berrio and George Walton.
To predict the exact person Team Guerrero will choose for his next contest with any level of certainty is a bit of a fool's errand. He is an up-and-coming presence in boxing, a future contender that a ton of people would love to fight. Guerrero is quickly becoming a guy those with no current path to a title shot would love to fight. Toppling him and his undefeated record would be quite a feather in the cap and likely lead to better paying fights for the victor. Given his talent and the awesome fan base he has in Salisbury, out-of-town fighters also see dollar signs and would love to be on a main event with a guy that can pack the house, while being showcased on Showtime.
The only downside I can see in Fernando Guerrero is he might be too good to attract some fights. Why would a top ten contender risk his position and possible future title match against an elite hungry fighter like Guerrero? Luckily, Fernando Guerrero has another year or two to go before he has to enter the contender fray, until then it will definitely be interesting to see which opponents his team puts before him and how he handles them.
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