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Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Very Special Post Tomorrow

Tomorrow morning at 10:00 AM we will deliver a very special Post.
Stay tuned Folks!

City Council: Who Was Really Running That Show?

On one of our Louise Smith posts, a couple of readers mentioned SAPOA's role in last night's theater, I mean, city council meeting. For those of you new to the area or Salisbury News, SAPOA stands for "Salisbury Area Property Owners Association." Translation: landlords. Salisbury's got quite a history involving SAPOA, not the least of which is its former president running the Housing Board that decides housing appeals, political wars with homeowners and elected officials, and some pretty campaign tactics. My friend and contributor GA Harrison could give you buckets of information on these folks.

But look, It's late, I'm still getting comments and trying to cover other things. So I'll save some of this for tomorrow. This is Salisbury. It's not like it's going away.

Two Troopers Injured And Two Suspects Shot After State Police Attempted To Execute A Search Warrant

Location: Unit Block of Barney Jenkins Road, south of Woodside, Kent County, DE
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday June 15, 2010 at approximately 4 p.m.

Resume:

Delaware State Police are currently investigating a police involved shooting that has left two state troopers and two suspects injured.

The incident occurred just after 4 p.m. when state police arrived at a residence on Barney Jenkins Road to execute a search warrant.

As state police entered the driveway, the suspects rammed two state police vehicles injuring two troopers. During the altercation the two suspects were shot by troopers.

The driver and the passenger in the suspect vehicle were taken into custody and transported to Kent General Hospital with gunshot wounds to the face and arms. Their injuries do not appear to be life threatening.

The two troopers in the first cruiser were taken to Milford Memorial Hospital as a result of injuries sustained when they were rammed by the suspect vehicle. They were treated and released for minor injuries.

In addition to the search warrant state police also had active arrest warrants for both occupants in the suspect vehicle.

A weapon was found in the search of the property as well as a small amount drugs.

The troopers’ names and the suspects’ names are being withheld at this time.

More information will be released as it becomes available.

Wildlife Soaked In Oil Likely To Die

There's one topic I'd like to share with all of you that isn't be touched by the MSM in the Gulf Disaster.

Most of the wildlife, (such as this Pelican) will not survive. They will try to cleans themselves and in doing so they will ingest these toxins and die. While all these efforts are honorable and make for great photo ops, one thing is certain, most of them will die.

Tonight the MSM finally mentioned coral reefs. There's so much more to this man made disaster outside of financial losses by many companies and businesses.

The outrage by Americans should be huge.

U.S. Postal Service Meeting Tonight In Easton

The U.S. Postal service is holding a meeting tonight referencing the possibility of closing their distribution center here on the Eastern Shore. We should have an update later tonight or tomorrow morning. It's nice to see so many concerned citizens at this event.

Missing Dog UPDATE: Maggie Has Been Reunited With Her Family



Joe,

I was hoping you could post this picture of my brother's dog Maggie on your
site.

She went missing sometime between last night and this morning.

We believe she is somewhere near West Nithsdale, most likely on the Quantico side
of Pemberton Drive.

She is a 4 year old yellow lab and not at all a threat to anyone who sees her.

Thank you very much in advance.

Cris Ashcraft

Please call, 443-235-5618 or 443-735-9254

Issues With Blogger

It seems Blogger is having some issues at the moment. While it appears as if there's no comments on each Post, just click on the comments and you can read what has been sent in. Hopefully they clear up this problem in the near future. Sorry Folks.

Wicomico Council Fails to Pass Budget?

Today the Wicomico County Council voted NOT to pass a budget.  The only council member voting to pass the amended budget was John Cannon.  The three Democrats voted against the budget because a majority had amended the budget to take $60,000 out of County Executive Rick Pollitt’s office and they (the Dems) had a hissy.

While I understand the reasons given by council members Gail Bartkovich, Stevie Prettyman, and Joe Holloway for their problems with the budget I still do not understand the reasoning for voting against the budget.  Now Pollitt’s budget (with all of its faults) become law (unamended).

More to come once I get a better grip on this move.

Sad News From The Salisbury Zoo

One of the greatest stories my Wife ever shared with me was the one about her special friend, Emmit, the Otter.



Jennifer raised Emmit from almost birth. I was amazed when she said that she had to actually teach Emmit how to swim. They're not natural born swimmers and he didn't have a biological mother to teach him. She raised him at home, giving him 24/7 attention and would use a bath tun, (at times) to teach him how to swim. Jennifer would bring him back and forth from home to work every day.

Unfortunately, today we received word that the Salisbury Zoo had to euthanize Emmit. Trust me on this one Folks, this was not an easy decision for the Zoo Staff and there's no question in my mind that they did the humane thing. He had kidney and liver failure.


Emmit just delighted the children at the Zoo and was probably the biggest attraction. In June of 2006 the Harris Family donated the funding for the Zoo to bring in two new Otters, who joined Emmit in the Otter Exhibit.


So to everyone at the Salisbury Zoo, I'm very sorry for your loss. Jennifer will be saddened by this unfortunate news.

Al Gore Cheats With Larry David's Ex


Al Gore's split from wife Tipper after 40 years of marriage was a shock to everyone who thought theirs was the ideal marriage. Now Star can exclusively reveal that the former Vice President was having an affair with Larry David's ex-wife — for the past two years!


GO HERE to read more.

Night Meetings Finally Pass Wicomico Council

 Well, it finally looks like the citizens of Wicomico County will be able to attend more county council meetings.  By a 5 – 2 vote the council has decided to hold the first meeting of each month at night.

The resolution previously failed because councilman John Cannon was absent due to the death of his father.  This time the resolution was brought forward with all seven members present.

After the motion to adopt one night meeting per month, councilwoman Stevie Prettyman moved an amendment to make all meetings in the evening.  Prettyman has repeatedly argued that the council meeting times should be consistent.  This motion failed by a 3 – 4 vote with Prettyman, Cannon, and Joe Holloway supporting the amendment and council members Gail Bartkovich, Sheree Sample-Hughes, Dave, McLeod, and Bill McCain against.  Back to the original motion.

Cannon, Holloway, Sample-Hughes, Bartkovich, and McLeod all supported the resolution to have the first meeting of each month in the evening.  McLeod admitted that he was changing his vote because of repeated calls from citizens on the matter.  Prettyman held firm to her belief that all meetings should be at a consistent time.  McCain claims that night meetings cost too much (an argument that was shot down months ago).

Is Charles Jannace Back To Blogging?


Local attorney Charles Jannace may just be up to his old games by returning to the Blogosphere.

Charles used to own the Blog Justice For All but after making a run for County Executive he gave it up and stopped. Charles was successful for quite some time remaining anonymous but he slipped up too many times and people figured him out. ;-)

Some habits are hard to break. More to come.....

Burglary Arrest

Location Occurred: Girdletree, Maryland
Crime or Violation: First Degree Burglary
Victim: Chase Bank,
Numerous Victims
Accused: #1 - Jacob Tyler Derr (DOB 01/25/1991) Snow Hill, MD
Accused: # 2 Juvenile (17 yoa) from Pittsville, MD.
Charges: First Degree Burglary, Third Degree Burglary, Fourth Degree Burglary, Theft under $1000.00, MDOP under $500.00


Narrative: On the above listed dates, the suspect Jacob Tyler Derr and a juvenile (17 yoa) from Pittsville committed two burglaries in the Girdletree area. The burglaries included a residence owned by Chase Bank. Also entered were seven (7) fishing boats located at the Girdletree boat docks on Taylor Landing Road.

Stolen from the residence were approximately fifteen to twenty feet of copper tubing. Stolen from the boats were seven (7) portable gas tanks filled with gasoline. The copper tubing and gas were valued under $1000.00 in each case. Investigation led detectives to Wicomico County, where both suspects tried to sell the copper tubing at Delmarva Recycling. Jacob Derr has admitted to the offenses, while the juvenile has been charged through juvenile services, awaiting trial.

Governor O'Malley, Lt. Governor Brown To Officially File Candidacy for Maryland Governor's Race


ANNAPOLIS, MD (June 15, 2010) -- Governor Martin O'Malley and Lt. Governor Anthony Brown will officially file their candidacy for governor tomorrow, June 16, at the State Board of Elections in Annapolis at 4:30PM. Governor O'Malley and Lt. Governor Brown will join with supporters in front of the Maryland Democratic Party headquarters and march to the State Board of Elections to file their candidacy to move Maryland forward.

What: Governor O'Malley, Lt. Governor Brown to Officially File Candidacy for Maryland Governor's Race

Date: Wednesday, June 16, 2010 Time: 4:00pm - 5:30pm

Location: Maryland Democratic Party Headquarters, 33 West Street, Annapolis, MD

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY ON DON BOESCH’S APPOINTMENT BY PRESIDENT OBAMA TO GULF COMMISSION

ANNAPOLIS, MD (June 15, 2010) – Governor Martin O’Malley issued this statement today following President Obama’s appointment of Donald Boesch, President of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, to the National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling.

“I want to congratulate Don Boesch on this appointment. Don’s expertise and experience in environmental science and his unique perspective on the impact of offshore oil and gas development on coastal ecosystems will serve the President and this Commission well.

“The President’s confidence in Don for this important post demonstrates the vast expertise within the University System of Maryland on today's most pressing environmental challenges.”

In late May, Governor O’Malley wrote to Secretary Salazar requesting a ban on offshore oil drilling along the mid-Atlantic coast. Recently, Maryland became one of ten states to form an offshore wind consortium, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Interior.

How Many Other Loal Businesses Can Claim They're Growing?


If you're sitting here reading this article, believe me, you're nowhere near alone. SBYNews.com is experiencing yet another growing spurt with daily increases and stable increases to boot.

Love Us Or Hate Us, Salisbury News brings in the daily traffic and delivers real time news and information. Even those who Hate Us would be stupid not to advertise here because they too are coming here daily to see what the next scoop is. Oh, they may deny it but you and I both know there are plenty of "Closet Followers" to Salisbury News.

In this economy, not many companies can claim they are growing and certainly not as fast and stable as Salisbury News is. I think we can all agree the DT's isn't growing, they're getting smaller. Even their paper is getting smaller by the day. If you run a Sunday ad in their paper it will cost you around $600.00. Heck, Salisbury News gives you a full month of advertising for just $100.00 a month.

It's no wonder so many people are now choosing to run an ad here on Salisbury News. Just trying it out only costs you a hundred dollars but notice the retention of our advertisers. The main reason for ANY of our advertisers backing out is because they got too much business and were afraid they couldn't satisfy the demand.

So get on board Folks. That is, unless you too have grown like we have and you just don't need the business?

If you're interested in advertising with us, contact me at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com .

More Of Louise Smith So-Called "Transparency"


I can't let this one go, either. Terry Cohen made a motion last night to release some information out of a closed session in which something got said about ambulance response time from Station 16. Now maybe some firefighters will come on here saying I'm disrespecting the department but not at all. The issue is whether or not ambulances and fire engines can get out of Station 16 and where they are going in time if the bridge goes up. Respectfully, Isabella Street isn't the answer because trucks that heavy aren't supposed to be going down that street. It's weight restricted! The ambulances are another story, but still, Isabella gets backed up when the bridges are up too because everybody and their brother is taking that as the "alternate" route too.

So what's in that tape? If Terry Cohen says it's public information or should be, I believe her. Reminds me of when Debbie Campbell was trying to get some Wastewater Treatment Plant document released and Louise, Gary and Shanie said "no.' Now look what's going on with that plant, another $52 million about to go down the wastewater drain. What was worse was Gary Comegys playing his illness card that he hadn't had an opportunity to listen to the tape. Again, don't get me wrong, folks, nobody and I mean NOBODY, wants to see Gary having to battle cancer. You know where I'm coming from so I'm not going there again. But this is the same man who had no sympathy for Terry Cohen missing a session due to a parent dying and told her it was her job to "catch up" on what went on while she was gone. Sorry, I call it like I see it and Gary should have just sat out the vote.

Not that his vote changed anything because Louise Smith and Shanie Shields -- who were THERE at the meeting and so know exactly what Terry was referring to -- said "no." Where's the transparency, Louise? You could have been the third vote. You were supposed to be the "swing vote," remember? When you look at how the votes went last night, you have to wonder why Gary picked this night of all nights to attend, and again, with all due respect I think it's great that he was able to get out there even though it's obvious it took a toll on him. I'll let that one simmer in your minds awhile and maybe you tell me what you think.

Worcester County Bureau Of Investigation Armed Robbery Press Release

Location Occurred: Goose Creek/Arby’s 2322 Stockton Road, Pocomoke, Worcester County, Maryland
Crime or Violation: Armed Robbery
Victim: Goose Creek
Accused: Unknown
Narrative:

On 06/09/2010 at 1140 P.M
., investigators from the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation responded to the Goose Creek/Arby’s in Pocomoke, Worcester County, Maryland to investigate an armed robbery. Investigation revealed that there were three suspects involved in the robbery. Suspect #1 displayed a black semi-automatic handgun. The suspects then fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of U.S. currency. Investigators are asking the public’s assistance in identifying the suspects and if anyone has information regarding the robbery, contact the Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack at 410-641-3101 or the Worcester County Bureau of Investigations (410) 352-3476.

Suspect #1 Black male, late teens-early twenties, 6’0”, thin build, long sleeve white shirt, dark blue jeans, and black ski mask
Suspect #2 Black male, 5’8” – 5’10”, medium build, black t-shirt, face mask, blue jeans
Suspect #3 Black male, 5’10”, medium build, black long sleeve shirt, face mask, blue jeans

Oh Yeah! Louise Smith IS Going To Run Again!


Louise Smith thinks you are stupid. At last night's city council meeting, Louise Smith talked her usual game of "transparency" even as she shot down at least two motions from Terry Cohen to do just that - keep the public in the know. First she failed repeatedly to answer Terry's simple question about why the appointment of a new person to the Housing Board of Adjustments and Appeals was taken off the agenda. All Louise kept saying was "there were questions" and Terry kept asking what questions. You know, whenever Debbie and Terry ask for something to go to work session first, they ALWAYS tell you why or what the questions are.

What's Louise Smith hiding? A single committee appointment has never, I repeat, NEVER, gone to a work session. Why now? Why won't she discuss it at an evening meeting on PAC14? No, Louise Smith has to bury it in a 1:30 work session on June 24 when nobody can attend. In fact - GET THIS - this is yet ANOTHER additional work session that Louise Smith knows Debbie Campbell can NOT attend. So that's the plan, a 2 against 1 so that this appointment never sees the light of day!

In case you haven't notice, Louise Smith is back on her broken record of "transparency" and "fiscal responsibility" in which she tries to sound like Debbie Campbell or Terry Cohen to try to fool you people into thinking she really is those things, just like when she lied to you during her campaign. Her votes prove she is not and never will be a Debbie or a Terry who are the real thing, not just words. Louise couldn't even do the real thing in the same session last night!

Yes, she's going to run again and she's going to try the same old blah blah blah she did before thinking you'll fall for for it again. Don't fall for it.

Louise "Government in the Sunshine - NOT!" Smith needs to be a one-termer, just like Jim Ireton is a "one term mayor."

Today's Survey Question

Are You Comfortable Leaving Items In A Vehicle
When You Take It To The Shop Or Valet Park?

Bowie High School Student Beating Caught On Tape

Warning: Video contains explicit language.

BOWIE, Md. - For most kids, the last day of school is filled with excitement. For one Bowie High school student, it was an ugly end to the school year.

A student was jumped, beaten, and had his iPod and backpack stolen. His father, who did not want his name used to protect his son, told WTOP the incident was videotaped and posted on Facebook. He shared that video with WTOP.

Source

My Lemon

Thank You! Joe Albero, SBY News

As the post got an instant response, I'm encouraged today. Dave Wilson Jr. contacted me today from the Preston Group and has offered to put me in a new car. He has also agreed to put me in a loaner car while my Ford Focus is being examined by their mechanics so he can contact Ford Motor Company to buy the car back under the lemon law. I'll keep you posted to the outcome.

Again thank you for help. Joe Albero and SBY News is there to help when others won't.


Sincerely,

Michelle Davis

Where Have All The Good People Gone?

Let's be frank. You can't hide the fact that down to earth, good people, (locally, anyway) are nowhere to be found when it comes to Public Office Candidates.

Now I'm not saying those who are running for Office aren't good people. I'm simply saying there aren't enough of them.

One would think after all those Tea Parties and the introduction of the new AFP there would be quite a few people interested in taking a leadership roll in local government. That's just not the case.

IMHO, the Tea Parties and the AFP, (both good organizations) have simply brought out angry Americans sick and tired of the way things have been run for so many years.

Obama had no real experience, yet he's was a black candidate and Americans wanted "Change". Kratovil, another candidate with absolutely no experience in politics got elected and quite frankly with exception to a few votes, Frank has done a pretty darned good job.

So where are all the Republicans? We have serious problems and issues right here on the Eastern Shore, yet very few people have stepped up to the plate for our own kind of "Change".

If you look at Rick Pollitt's history, (or shall I say the new form of Executive government) we have seen Wicomico County's expenses go through the roof. Purchases of additional park land, a parking lot for the Civic Center, the list goes on and on. Now you can't just point a finger at Rick Pollitt, the majority of the County Council agreed to make all these changes and expenses. Are you satisfied?

Rick Pollitt doesn't seem to know how to do a budget and relies on "Old School" staff to help him through the process. Rick is a wonderful man but as I've said in the past, cuts should have started years ago but instead there has been more spending, all of which will continue to cost the taxpayers locally. Not only will these purchases cost taxpayers to improve these properties, it will also cost taxpayers to maintain them as well.

Joe Ollinger has jumped into the ring and claims to be a registered republican, yet his platform looks more like a dictator and he wants to do things that just can't be done as County Executive. I respect the fact that he's willing to give it a shot but I personally am not confident he's the kind of "Change" Wicomico County needs.

If I personally had a choice for a candidate to run for County Executive, my first choice would be Robin Holloway. Confident, straight to the point, no special interests and a no BS kind of Gal. She's the Debbie Campbell of the Board of Education. You know, 3-2 but in her case, 6-1 votes almost every time. Unfortunately Robin has no real interest in the job but boy she'd make a great County Executive.

On the City Council side of things you've got Gary Comegys seat, Terry Cohen and Louise Smith. Again, if I had my way I'd like to see two seats go to other people with interest. Louise Smith claimed she was only going to stick around for one term but my guess is, if they get some really serious competition she'll be running again.

While Comegys does have a lot of wisdom, (which I personally appreciate) his health is certainly a concern. I personally feel that having a Council that disagrees is a healthy thing. Unfortunately the debate between this Council and the former Council has not been healthy debate. It's been more personal attacks. Gary will have a difficult time keeping his seat if a good challenger comes forth.

Terry Cohen simply cannot lose her seat IF she chooses to run again. I say IF because Terry spends quite a bit of her time researching each and every item, (FOR YOU) to assure everything is Kosher. I can only imagine how frustrating it is on Terry, knowing she spent all that time on each piece of legislation and it constantly gets shot down. Besides that, Terry has great opportunities to teach and do other things that could bring in far more income than the $10,000.00 a year the City pays her. Don't be too surprised if Terry decides not to run again.

So, getting back to the main topic at hand, where are all the Good People? Who do you know who might be interested in running for Office in the City & County. Would you agree we need "Change"?

I'll close with this. Being in Public Office is a very trying job. You cannot please everyone, that's for sure. Then there's the local Blogs, (including mine) that add quite a bit of pressure. That being said, I personally feel that pressure is absolutely necessary because the MSM simply provides information they are told. I'll never forget the many times GA Harison would challenge the Daily Times by saying, you knew that was a lie, yet you printed it anyway. They'd reply, we only printed what the Mayor quoted.

While I can understand their position, the MSM, (per their own protocol) cannot provide their opinion in an article and that's the main difference between the Blogs and a Newspaper. I have had numerous conversations with the Management of the Daily Times where they openly admit, they'd love to do what I do, but they can't. I respect that and I understand where they're coming from. We're two different forms of publication.

"It's a tough job but somebody has to do it."

Calling A Foul On Foul Language

I can’t walk past the park on our corner with my 5-year-old sons without getting bombed -- f-bombed.

When did it become societally acceptable to casually accuse people of having sex with their mothers? In the half a minute it takes us to stroll past that park, I often hear “m-f” this and “m-f” that, at least three or four times. This obscenity has become an all-purpose modifier -- not even always a malicious one. It can mean “guy,” it can mean “friend” -- sometimes, it means nothing at all, and is just four extra syllables tossed into a sentence with no purpose.

I swear. A lot. When I became a parent, I made a good-faith effort to stop, but it didn’t take. I try to keep it in check, but when I’m behind the wheel, I can be possessed by the spirit of Eddie Murphy.

GO HERE to read more.

BP Faces Huge Tab, Has Deep Pockets

Oil giant generates tens of billions in cash, sitting on vast oil reserves

Even if the cost of the nation's worst oil spill rises to $70 billion, the high end of current estimates, BP's pockets probably are deep enough to withstand it. But much depends on what costs are included in the final tally, and who else might end up sharing the liability.

BP says it already has spent $1.6 billion on the spill response and related claims. Estimates for the company's future costs and liabilities are are all over the map.

GO HERE to read more.

Money Down The Drain?


Wouldn’t it be nice to be paid for hours and shifts you didn’t actually work? It was apparently a reality for some of the District’s Department of Public Works employees.

An internal audit found the agency can’t account for millions of dollars in overtime, according to the Washington Examiner. How do you lose track of all that money?

According to the Examiner, the DPW relied on a “trust”-based system, and instances like this certainly don’t help: one worker allegedly got her supervisor’s password and changed the time sheets of her sister, spouse, and another employee.

GO HERE to read more.

City Council Updates Coming Today

Folks, in addition to what the Daily Times tells you about the Wastewater Treatment Plant today, last night's city council meeting had some surprises. First, Gary Comegys was there. I mean it when I say I'm glad Gary could be there, although he did leave before the WWTP discussion and vote. You have to wonder why this night of all nights he shows up since none of the votes he revived the old 3-2 pattern on made any more difference than if they stayed deadlocked at 2-2. More on that later.

But he was there and I'll just say give the man credit and wish him all the best in getting better. I'll post more later today and if you saw last night's meeting, you know what I mean when I say Louise Smith has got to go.

Uncle Sam Unlikely To Back Handouts For Newspapers

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission, on completing a public review, probably won't recommend either subsidies or taxes to help newspapers

U.S. newspaper companies will probably get little help from the government after the Federal Trade Commission completes its review of the industry, says a person with knowledge of the agency's plans.

The FTC is reviewing more than a dozen ways that the government could assist newspapers. The agency has held public workshops and is due to publish a report this fall. Its recommendations are likely to exclude subsidies or new taxes to support newspaper companies such as New York Times Co. (NYT) and Washington Post Co. (WPO), said the person, who asked not to be named because the proposals aren't yet finalized.

FTC officials won't back financial aid because Congress is unlikely to approve it, the person told Bloomberg Businessweek.com. The government has faced criticism for bailing out carmakers and banks and is now dealing with a potentially expensive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

"Most everything they suggested is politically untenable," says Jeff Jarvis, director of the interactive program of journalism at City University of New York, referring to proposals presented to the FTC.

GO HERE to read more.

BP’s Credit Rating Cut By Fitch To BBB, Two Levels Above ‘Junk’

June 15 (Bloomberg) -- BP Plc’s credit rating was cut to two levels above “junk” at Fitch Ratings on concern over the potential cost of cleaning up the Gulf of Mexico oil spill and meeting future liabilities.

BP’s long-term issuer default and senior unsecured ratings were lowered six levels to BBB from AA, Fitch said in a statement in London today. That follows a cut from AA+ on June 3. The rating watch was changed to “Evolving” from “Negative.”

“The recent claims by U.S. state and federal authorities that BP escrow significant sums preemptively, ahead of any agreed claims process, represent a material change in approach,” Fitch said in the statement.

GO HERE to read more.

Chesapeake Swim: Come On In! The Water’s Dead


Sunday's Great Chesapeake Bay Swim was designed to raise awareness of the Chesapeake's precarious health, but some swimmers said that on the surface, the glittering bay seemed far from imperiled.


But that lack of visible pollution disguises larger ecological problems under the surface, scientists and bay advocates say. Often the unhealthiest areas of the bay are those that are hidden from view.


GO HERE to view more.

Pelosi's New District Office Costs $18,736 A Month


San Francisco is a high-rent city. Just ask Nancy Pelosi.


The House Speaker's district office in the new federal building in San Francisco costs a whopping $18,736 a month -- the highest rental paid by any member of the House -- or, more precisely, the highest rental paid by taxpayers on behalf of a member of the House. The rental price was reported by Roll Call on Monday.


The Democratic congresswoman moved last fall from her old office in the Burton Federal Building, which she occupied for 20 years, to a "greener" space in the city's new federal building -- a move and a high price that her spokesman, Drew Hammill, says was amply justified.


Hammill cited the new building's increased security measures and the new office's larger size as reasons for the move -- and the expense. "The new office space is 3,075 square feet, nearly a third larger than the old space, which was of inadequate size," he told FoxNews.com.


"As speaker, the security needs are different," he said. "The new San Francisco Federal Building offers enhanced security features, which were a major factor in the decision to move offices
."


GO HERE to read more.

I Found My Pre-Paid Walmart MoneyCard Impossible To Use


Chris and his wife got a Walmart Money Card as a gift and thought they'd go spend it, but the money was buried under so many layers of red tape that they weren't able to use it. To activate the card Chris was told he had to give up a litany of personal info, including his social security number.


Johnson & Johnson Hired Fake Shoppers To Buy Up Bad Motrin, Avoid Public Recall

Ever since the FDA and Congress started asking Johnson & Johnson to explain why it keeps recalling medicine, there have been references to an unpublicized "recall" that happened in November 2008. Last month, at a hearing of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, a J&J executive swore that the company didn't mean to mislead anyone. It turns out that wasn't exactly accurate: Bloomberg has obtained emails from J&J's company, McNeil Consumer Healthcare, that show executives knew the secret recall would trigger an FDA reaction if the agency got wind of its full scope.

More »

You Decide

This is part of what Obama has spent almost $2M to hide... you decide.........
Click on image to enlarge.

Park Rules Prohibit "Unlicensed Guns" In State That Doesn't License Guns

Here's a problem for the Lackawanna County park system: They've passed new rules that prohibit "unlicensed firearms." Sounds reasonable until you notice that the park is in Pennsylvania where they apparently don't license guns.

More »

Independence Day Celebration In Willards


Joe,

There is a bit of confusion relating to the date for this years Independence Day Celebration in Willards - and I own it. I hope you can post this to help me straighten it out. I set the date for July 3rd and then mistakenly told everyone July 4th. I am in the process of letting everyone know of the change of date as we wouldn't want anyone to miss it. Everyone I've told so far has told me that they are glad that it is on the 3rd rather than the 4th since the 3rd falls on a Saturday. I apologize if this will be an inconvenience on anyone. Please tell all of your friends and neighbors.

This year's Independence Day Celebration sponsored by the Wicomico Eastside Chamber of Commerce will start at 4 p.m. (on July 3rd) and will be located at the Willards Elementary School on Richland Rd. in Willards, MD. There will be live music provided by the Tabernacle, food from local vendors, a Buffalo Chip Tossing Contest hosted by Wayne Calloway of Cobbs Hill Bison, and of course - a wonderful fireworks display. While the Fireworks are free as they have been in the past, we would appreciate any donations to help us with the cost of the fireworks display.

Anyone wishing to send a donation may send it to:

WECC
P.O. Box "G"
Pittsville, Maryland 21850

Thank you so much.

Bob Harris, President
Wicomico Eastside Chamber of Commerce

Daily Times Doesn't Recycle

"Last Saturday morning my husband and I went to Bob Evans in Salisbury for breakfast. As we walked by the trash can right next to their front door, we noticed a pile of 5 or 6 daily times newspapers half in half out of the trash can.

Appears that when the Daily Times carrier refills the machine there, instead of taking the previous days newspapers back to be recycled, they take the lazy route and toss em right in the trash.

I am not surprised by this but I am disgusted by it. If this is done at all the machines, what a waste! I just had to write and tell you about it."

Emails Among Staff At WorWic:

Two of our employees were recently mugged - one at the Giant Food parking lot at 5:30 p.m. in broad daylight. She attempted to run after the man, but he drove off. Luckily she was not hurt. They later found her purse in a dumpster. Another one of our employees was at Wal-mart in Fruitland in the early evening - still daylight - and a man tried to grab her purse. She also fought back and yelled for help. The man ran off when others came to try to help her. Luckily she was not hurt either and he did not get her purse. However, the story below makes me realize how lucky they were not to be hurt.

Also on Friday, June 11:

A woman, around 40-50 years old, went to the Chinese Restaurant on College Ave. (SuperFresh) to place an order. After that, she went over to ACE and bought a few tomato cages. On her way back across the parking lot to the Chinese place, a man grabbed her purse. The woman put up a fight and was knocked to the ground.

I guess she was feeling way too brave, because as the man got into his black truck w/ her purse, she continued to try to get her purse back. The details are sketchy after that (not sure if she was knocked down again or actually ran over) but she ended up face down in a pool of blood in the parking lot and is now in critical (but stable) condition at the hospital.

There was one witness (a woman) who saw the entire thing from start to finish and refuses to make a statement out of fear. An employee from the mattress store (within ACE) and a Super Fresh employee and someone else saw bits and peices and gave statements.

Witnesses clearly remember this lady coming into the store, being very pleasant w/ the cashier, smiling.

Of course, the bottom line here is, that purse isn't worth risking your life. And also...BE CAREFUL OUT THERE! Things are really scary!

Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Releases


Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 11 June 2010
Location: 7400 block of Rachel lane, Parsonsburg, MD
Suspect: Adam L. Ayres, 22, Salisbury, MD


Narrative: On 11 June 2010 at 9:45 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office investigated a reported altercation inside a residence in the 7400 block of Rachel Lane in Parsonsburg. Upon arrival, the deputy learned that the suspect in this case, Adam Ayres, came to the residence to confront a subject there over money owed to Ayres. Both the victim and witnesses in this case advise that Ayres displayed a large knife in a menacing manner. Ayres was gone upon arrival but was quickly located inside a retail establishment in Salisbury where he was taken into custody. Post arrest, the deputy located a large hunting style knife matching the description of the one displayed in the vehicle in which Ayres had been riding.


The deputy transported Ayres 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 Ayres in the Detention Center in lieu of $30,000.00 bond.


Charges: Assault 1st Degree
Assault 2nd Degree
Reckless Endangerment
Wear and Carry a Dangerous Weapon


Incident: Disorderly Conduct
Date of Incident: 13 June 2010
Location: 1100 block of Kenosha Avenue, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Tamia P. Macer, 24, Hurlock, MD


Narrative: On 13 June 2010 at 2:15 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a dispute at a residence in the 1100 block of Kenosha Avenue in Salisbury. Upon arrival, the deputy observed Tamia Macer in the front yard of the residence, yelling at the resident and refusing to leave. The deputy requested that Macer cease yelling and to leave the area, but instead she continued to cause a disturbance.


The deputy placed Macer under arrest and transported her to the Central Booking Unit where she was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, she was released by the Commissioner on Personal recognizance.


Charges: Disorderly Conduct
Disturbance of the Peace


Incident: Violation of a Protective Order
Date of Incident: 13 June 2010
Location: 5600 block of Royal Mile Blvd., Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Ming Louie, 61, Salisbury, MD


Narrative: On 13 June 2010 at 6:28 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call of a subject inside a residence in the 5600 block of Royal Mile Blvd. in violation of a Protective Order. Responding deputies were also advised that the subject was involved in a verbal altercation with the caller’s mother. Upon arrival, the deputy discovered that Ming Louie was inside the residence in violation of a Final Protective Order issued back in September 2009 that barred him from being on the property.


The deputy placed Louie 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, Louie was detained by the Commissioner in the detention Center in lieu of $25,000.00 bond.


Charges: Violation of a Protective Order

Would YOU Order One Of These?

A few hours after the dawn's early light Monday, the state Motor Vehicle Administration will begin issuing a new Maryland license plate — replacing the generic black-and-white version with a design commemorating the War of 1812 and the defense of Fort McHenry.

Who's Next?


The 'wooden' posts are temporary so that BLM could get the signs out quickly, guessing it was a result of the most recent shooting (last Monday) at Mile Post 150.


No more camping south of I-8. ......... So, our government has surrendered and ceded part of Arizona to the smugglers and cartels of Mexico??? This is a real sign here in AZ just off I-8.

Folks, this nation better wake up and pay attention.


This is only the beginning of what you can expect in YOUR backyards. This is not an exaggeration: I stopped hiking some of my favorite mountains and canyons because of the smuggling dangers. Who wants to carry more guns and ammo than water in order to survive in the Arizona desert? That is what it has become. Maybe your state is next?

Priceless

The light turned yellow, just in front of him. He did the right thing, stopping at the crosswalk, even though he could have beaten the red light by accelerating through the intersection.

The tailgating woman was furious and honked her horn, screaming in frustration, as she missed her chance to get through the intersection, dropping her cell phone and makeup.

As she was still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a very serious police officer. The officer ordered her to exit her car with her hands up.

He took her to the police station where she was searched, fingerprinted, photographed, and placed in a holding cell.

After a couple of hours, a policeman approached the cell and opened the door. She was escorted back to the booking desk where the arresting officer was waiting with her personal effects.

He said, ''I'm very sorry for this mistake. You see, I pulled up behind your car while you were blowing your horn, flipping off the guy in front of you and cussing a blue streak at him. I noticed the 'What Would Jesus Do' bumper sticker, the 'Choose Life' license plate holder, the 'Follow Me to Sunday-School' bumper sticker, and the chrome-plated Christian fish emblem on the trunk, so naturally....I assumed you had stolen the car.''

MORELAND DAZZLES IN 1-0 SERIES OPENING WIN

‘Birds Win Fourth Straight Home Game

SALISBURY, Md.
– Right-hander Kenny Moreland pitched a masterful seven innings, allowing just three hits and a walk and Garabez Rosa tallied an RBI double in the bottom of the seventh as the Delmarva Shorebirds topped the Kannapolis Intimidators at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium Monday.

Moreland (2-2) struck out three and walked none for the win. The Norfolk, Va., native, retired 12-of-13 Kannapolis batters from the third through the sixth inning and Nick Haughian and Josh Dowdy worked perfect eighth and ninth frames to nail down the win. Dowdy earned his ninth save of the season in as many chances.

Rosa finished 1-for-3 with Delmarva’s only extra-base hit on the night and the game-winning RBI. T.J. Baxter, Kieron Pope, Steve Bumbry and Mikey Planeta secured the Shorebirds’ other four hits. Pope’s fourth-inning single extended his hitting streak to eight games. He’s now hitting .406 during the string.

Moreland surrendered singles to Brady Shoemaker, Ian Gac and a double to Jordan Cheatham.

Rosa’s double scored Tyler Stampone who walked to start the inning. A Mikey Planeta sacrifice bunt moved Stampone into scoring position.

Garrett Johnson (2-2) took the loss for Kannapolis. He threw two innings, issued three walks and the game-winning knock, spoiling a solid out from Intimidators’ starter Justin Collop. The righty went six innings himself and allowed just four hits, two walks and struck out five.

The Shorebirds and Intimidators square off in Game 2 of the series Tuesday at 7:05 p.m. For tickets and information, contact the Shorebirds’ box office at (410) 219-3112. On the mound will be right-hander Bobby Bundy (1-3, 4.29). Kannapolis goes with righty Matt Hopps (1-4, 5.55).

Wargotz ON THE AIR - JOBS, JOBS, JOBS…

Addresses Over Regulation, Deficit Spending, Bailouts and Earmarks


Annapolis, MD Eric Wargotz, an elected member of the Queens Anne’s County Board of Commissioners and a candidate for US Senate from Maryland released the fourth of the campaign’s, “Eric on the Issues” radio ads, which are airing on talk radio stations around the state. Wargotz is seeking the Republican nomination for the seat currently held by four term incumbent Senator, Barbara Mikulski

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In the spot (click here) titled, “Jobs, Jobs, Jobs…,” Wargotz, the manager of a medical practice (and someone who has actually created jobs) says, "I know first hand the detrimental affect that over regulation and an oppressive tax bourdon have on job creation."

Wargotz points out that job creators have options, a reality which appears to be lost on the incumbent. Washington’s “where they going to go?” attitude has been answered. India and China are now home to our entry level service sector jobs, while our unemployment rate skyrockets, he continues. To make matters worse, we are racking up massive debt, and handing the bill to our children.

In the 60 second ad, Commissioner Wargotz promises, "As your US Senator, I will work to institute fiscal discipline in Washington, voting against non-emergency deficit spending, bailouts and pork barrel earmarks which buy votes today and are paid by our children."

The spot, which begins airing this week, is the fourth in a series designed to highlight the cornerstones of the campaign. Previously, the campaign aired, “Our Common Defense” on the issue of national security, “Promises Made” regarding his record as a County Commissioner and "A Second Opinion" on health care.

Eric Wargotz Supports Free Health Care For Illegal Immigrants

Jim Rutledge Believes Marylanders Should Know The Truth About Wargotz


FOREST HILL, Maryland

Republican U.S. Senate candidate Jim Rutledge of Maryland believes election results continue to reflect America's outrage with Washington's career politicians. Jim Rutledge said, "State by state voters are sending a clear message that they are tired of politics as usual." Jim Rutledge understands and shares the frustration Marylanders have with politicians who say one thing and then do another.

The Rutledge Campaign believes statements by Eric Wargotz are an affront to the values and beliefs of Marylanders. Voters deserve to know the truth about where Eric Wargotz stands on the issues. Illegal immigration is costing taxpayers billions of dollars and the Wargotz solution is to advocate free health care for all illegal immigrants. In an October 30, 2009 interview with the Jewish Times Wargotz stated that he was disappointed that President Obama was not going to pay for health care for illegal immigrants. Eric Wargotz is attempting to hide behind the conservative banner while advocating liberal positions.

Jim Rutledge is the only true conservative seeking to represent Maryland in the U.S. Senate. Eric Wargotz has a record making liberal and irresponsible decisions. Jim Rutledge provides a clear alternative to the Washington Insiders and candidates like Eric Wargotz who want to drive America farther in debt. Jim Rutledge said, "It's time to take the gloves off because Marylanders need to know the truth about Eric Wargotz."

The time has come for Marylanders to join the fight to restore Washington and bring the career politicians home. Jim Rutledge is leading the way by proudly holding up the conservative banner not hiding behind it.

Jim Rutledge Takes Issue With Federal Response To Gulf Coast Crisis

Rutledge Wants Obama Administration to Lead, Follow, or Get Out Of The Way


FOREST HILL, Maryland
- Republican U.S. Senate Candidate Jim Rutledge disputes President Obama’s claim that he is doing everything possible in response to the environmental crisis in the Gulf of Mexico. Today Obama will visit the region again bringing with him well wishes and hollow threats instead of an organized federal government response. Inaction by the Obama Administration provides another example of a Washington bureaucracy that is too big and ineffective. Jim Rutledge said, “This Administration should lead, follow or at least get out of the way.”

The Gulf Coast Region is struggling to contain and clean up as much as 2 million barrels of oil that have leaked into the Gulf of Mexico. Jim Rutledge believes Washington should get its priorities straight. Instead of spending billions of dollars and driving Americans further into debt, Washington should be focusing on limiting the adverse effect this crisis will have on the Gulf Coast economy. Rutledge said, “This crisis will affect our national economy at a time when we don’t need anymore negative factors.”

Jim Rutledge encourages President Obama to meet with the Governors of the Gulf Coast Region collectively to incorporate their concerns and solutions to help meet this challenge. The President should be leading the way to organize the region and harness all possible resources. A massive federal response to this crisis is counter productive when the effort lacks leadership and organization. The Obama Administration should be ordering federal agencies to suspend regulations and stop standing in the way of local attempts to protect and save the Gulf Coast.

Jim Rutledge feels strongly that federal agencies should not be hampering local efforts but instead should be providing the necessary assistance to support local and state governments. The time has come for Barack Obama and Nancy Pelosi to stop wasting time criticizing and looking for photo opportunities. Real leadership is now required from President Obama to provide the proper resolve to eliminate the piecemeal federal response and start meeting the challenges of this crisis.

PUBLIC NOTICE


The City Council has scheduled an additional work session for Thursday, June 24, 2010.
The work session will be held at 1:30 p.m. in Conference Room 306 of the Government Office Building (125 N. Division Street).

GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY HONORS MARYLAND HEROES AT MARYLAND STATE FIREMEN’S ASSOCIATION

OCEAN CITY, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley honored Maryland’s heroes yesterday morning at the annual convention of the Maryland State Firemen’s Association. More than 1,500 members gathered in Ocean City, including volunteer firefighters and Fire Chiefs from across the State. The Maryland State Firemen’s Association (MSFA) is a volunteer organization founded in 1893 to represent, advocate and promote the interests of the volunteer fire, rescue and EMS companies in Maryland.

“It’s been one of the great honors of my time in public life to witness the courage and heroism of Maryland’s Bravest,” said Governor O’Malley. “After others run out of danger, the men and women of the MSFA choose to run in, putting their own lives on the line to save the lives of fellow citizens you’ve never met. It’s this type of heroism, this type of courage, this type of commitment to service that represents the very best of who we are as Marylanders.”

The O’Malley-Brown Administration has increased state investments in important public safety initiatives, and funds to assist public safety officials and their families. In addition to funding for the purchase of new State Police Medevac helicopters, the Governor has launched an effort to build an interoperable communications network for public safety agencies throughout the state. After a decade’s worth of previous efforts, the new Interoperability Office successfully issues a request for proposals and the project is expected to be awarded this year.

In addition to providing $13.1 million in funding for MSFA operating costs in the FY11 budget, a nearly 10 percent increase from four years ago, Governor O’Malley increased funding for the MSFA Widows and Orphans Fund by 48 percent compared to the four years prior. In addition, Governor O’Malley increased investments in the Charles Riley Tuition Reimbursement program by 18 percent, and investments in the Edward Conroy memorial Scholarship by 40 percent compared to the four years prior. These scholarship programs provide tuition funds for active firefights, and for dependents of public safety personnel killed or disabled in the line of duty, respectively.

Last year, Governor O’Malley signed legislation to generate new revenue for the Volunteer Company Assistance Fund, as well as legislation that establishes duties of drivers when emergency vehicles approach from the rear of a stopped or standing vehicle.

Year to date, Maryland has experiences ten fewer fire-related deaths than the same period one year ago, including a 52% decrease in fire-related fatalities in Baltimore City alone.

Upcoming BOE Meetings

Tuesday, July 6
Board of Education Meeting
Board of Education Office

The July meeting of the Wicomico County Board of Education will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 6, at the Board of Education Office. (This meeting has been rescheduled from the regular meeting date of July 13.) The July Board meeting includes the annual reorganization of the Board and the election of a president and vice president. 410-677-4561.

Saturday, July 10 Board of Education Auction James M. Bennett High The Board of Education's annual auction will take place at the original James M. Bennett High School starting at 9 a.m. Friday, July 16 School Readiness Fair Pemberton Elementary School
The annual School Readiness Fair for young children and their families will be held from 4-7 p.m. Friday, July 16, at Pemberton Elementary School. This will be an opportunity for children and their parents/guardians to meet representatives of their schools and local community organizations, pick up teaching materials, and learn about school bus safety from Buster the Bus. The Readiness Fair will include free dinner, door prizes, real school bus rides, games and crafts. Call 410-677-4580 to register as an exhibitor or to get more information.

Wednesday, Aug. 4
5th Annual NAACP Back-to-School Rally
Salisbury Middle School

The Wicomico County Branch of the NAACP will hold its 5th annual Back-to-School Rally at Salisbury Middle School from 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 4. Every summer for the past five years, families and Wicomico County students in prekindergarten-grade 8 have had a chance to get pumped up and prepared for the coming school year at the rally. Students will be encouraged to begin the school year with a commitment to attend classes and succeed in all their course work and activities. Mark Thompson will be master of ceremonies for the program, which will include an inspiring presentation and entertainment. The community is invited to attend this and all NAACP events. Monetary donations and/or contributions are needed for this event, which aims to provide 300 students with school supplies. Needed items include pencils, spiral notebooks, paper, pens, tissue packs, hand sanitizer, etc. For information or to make a donation of funds or school supplies, please call the Wicomico County Chapter of the NAACP at 410-543-4187.

How To Sell Tooth Brushes

The kids filed back into class Monday morning. They were very excited.
Their weekend assignment was to sell something, then give a talk on
productive salesmanship.

Little Sally led off: "I sold girl scout cookies and I made $30," she said
proudly, "My sales approach was to appeal to the customer's civil spirit and
I credit that approach for my obvious success."

"Very good," said the teacher.

Little Jenny was next:

"I sold magazines," she said, "I made $45 and I explained to everyone that
magazines would keep them up on current events."

"Very good, Jenny," said the teacher..

Eventually, it was Little Johnny's turn.

The teacher held her breath ...

Little Johnny walked to the front of the classroom and dumped a box full of
cash on the teacher's desk. "$2,467," he said.

"$2,467!" cried the teacher, "What in the world were you selling?"

"Toothbrushes," said Little Johnny.

"Toothbrushes!" echoed the teacher, "How could you possibly sell enough tooth brushes to make that much money?"

"I found the busiest corner in town," said Little Johnny, "I set up a Dip & Chip stand and gave everybody who walked by a free sample."

They all said the same thing, "Hey, this tastes like dog sh!t!"

Then I would say, "It is dog sh!t. Wanna buy a toothbrush?"

"I used the governmental approach of giving you something sh!tty for free, and then making you pay to get the sh!tty taste out of your mouth."

Opportunities To Support Our Students And Schools

Closing at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 15
A+ Garden Centre
Parkside CTE

The A+ Garden Centre at Parkside High School CTE will close for the season at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 15. The Garden Centre still has a good supply of tomato plants and pastel impatiens, as well as double knockout pink rosebushes and perennials. The A+ Garden Centre is open from 8:30-11 a.m. and 12:30-2 p.m. weekdays on regular school days 410-341-8746.

Available Now
Kids of Honor Gift Cards
Viva Espresso

If you eat/drink at Viva Espresso coffee shop on College Avenue, please consider buying a gift card to use for your purchases. Viva Espresso now has a Kids of Honor branded gift card for sale there. You just buy it at face value and use it for your purchases. Nancy Dix, owner of Viva Espresso, donates a portion of all sales to Kids of Honor - a win/win situation! You can re-load the card when it gets low or runs out. The cards also make great gifts for dog/cat sitters, birthdays, holidays, get well gifts, mail-carriers, etc.

Single Car Crash Claims A Georgetown Woman

Location: 1600 block of Harbeson Road, Milton, DE
Date of Occurrence: Monday June 14, 2010 at 5:57 p.m.
Victim/Vehicle: Kathleen A. Myers, 55, Georgetown, DE
2006 Hyundai Sante Fe

Resume:


Delaware State Police are investigating a crash that claimed the life of a Georgetown woman.

The crash happened today just before 6 p.m. when Kathleen A. Myers was traveling eastbound on Sandhill Rd (CR319) in her Hyundai approaching the intersection of Harbeson Rd (SR5). The intersection is controlled with a stop sign posted. Myers failed to stop at the intersection and proceeded to cross the entire roadway at full speed and enter a private driveway on the opposite side. The left front of Sante Fe then struck a concrete retaining wall causing it to overturn. As the vehicle overturned, Myers was partially ejected. The Sante Fe then struck the front of a two-car garage, coming to rest partially inside the garage on its roof. Two vehicles parked inside the garage suffered extensively damaged.

Myers died at the scene due to massive head trauma. She was not wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash.

Prior to the crash Sussex County Emergency Operation Center received a “911” call about erratic driving,

The investigating is on going. The roadway was closed for approximately 3 hours.

Congressman Apologizes For On-Camera Confrontation

Washington (CNN) -- North Carolina Rep. Bob Etheridge reiterated his apology Monday after an online video surfaced showing he was involved in a physical altercation with two young men who approached him on a Washington street and asked the Democrat whether he supported President Obama's agenda.

"The truth is I had a long day, it was the end of the day, almost sunset," he told reporters on Capitol Hill. "But that's not the issue. The issue is I apologize for my actions and the people of North Carolina know me well and I apologize to these young men as well."

Etheridge declined to say whether more words or actions were exchanged beyond those that were shown in the edited video posted anonymously online Monday.

"I've been spat at, pushed on and threatened before and that's no excuse for my not walking on by," Etheridge said while declining to disclose if more words were exchanged. "Just no excuse."

The six-term congressman also said he still does not know who the young men -- who identified themselves as students in the video -- are.

Etheridge is shown in a video getting into a physical confrontation with the men.

"Who are you?" a clearly frustrated Etheridge replies when the two men approached Etheridge with a camera on a Washington street. When the purported students did not answer, Etheridge is seen slapping the camera out of one of the individual's hands.

Later in the video, which has clearly been edited, Etheridge is seen grabbing the wrist of one of the men and again repeatedly asking, "Who are you?...Tell me who you are."

"We are just here for a project," one replies. "We are just students, that's all we are."

GO HERE to read more. Video is just below this Post.