DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Breaking News
There has been a fatal accident on Rt. 113 in Worcester County. This was a 2 vehicle accident. One patient was air lifted by DSP and several people taken to PRMC. Snow Hill fire and rescue responded, assisted by Pocomoke Ambulance. This was near Kleg Range Road. Photos and more information to follow.
For The Record
The public should be very aware of the following. I apologize for being so far behind Folks but I have been extremely busy, (more so than I've ever been) and I'm trying to catch up.
The other night at the NAACP Forum, the people that DID NOT SHOW were as follows.
Mike Brewington
Chris Lewis
Matt Holloway
Mike Calpino
John Hamilton
Bob Caldwell
The NAACP plays a larger role each and every year when it comes to adding voters and encouraging their members to get out and vote. This disrespect of just not showing up, (yet many of these same names were at the Chamber of Commerce lunch forum the following morning) is completely out of line.
Mind you, I was told that Bob Caldwell was not invited, yet he called the NAACP that day and told them he would not be there as he was heading out of town to be with Family.
Are these alleged candidates afraid of the Afro American community? Clearly they have no respect for them, anyway. I'll close with, their names were called out to come forward and participate, (with exception to Bob Caldwell) so these candidates did NOT contact the NAACP to tell them they weren't going to attend. Shame On Them!
The other night at the NAACP Forum, the people that DID NOT SHOW were as follows.
Mike Brewington
Chris Lewis
Matt Holloway
Mike Calpino
John Hamilton
Bob Caldwell
The NAACP plays a larger role each and every year when it comes to adding voters and encouraging their members to get out and vote. This disrespect of just not showing up, (yet many of these same names were at the Chamber of Commerce lunch forum the following morning) is completely out of line.
Mind you, I was told that Bob Caldwell was not invited, yet he called the NAACP that day and told them he would not be there as he was heading out of town to be with Family.
Are these alleged candidates afraid of the Afro American community? Clearly they have no respect for them, anyway. I'll close with, their names were called out to come forward and participate, (with exception to Bob Caldwell) so these candidates did NOT contact the NAACP to tell them they weren't going to attend. Shame On Them!
HISTORICAL COMMENTS BY GEORGE CHEVALLIER
Jackson’s Shirt FactoryAnother Salisbury building that has been relegated to the sands of time is the old three-story Jackson shirt factory. The building has an interesting history and story behind it.
It was built in the beginning of the Twentieth Century by the Jacksons across from their mill and lumber works. The mill took up the area that is now the Peninsula Regional Medical Center. The story goes that the men at the mill were complaining that their wages were too low to raise a family. So the Jacksons built the shirt factory and put their wives to work to earn more money. As the above post cards show, it had many names. First, it was the Jackson and Gutman Shirt Company. Then it became the Jackson, Gutman and Lane Shirt Company. Finally, it was the Jackson and Weisbach Shirt Company. The Jackson name was always first because they owned it. The secondary names were the managers of the shirt factory.
The shirt-making operation fell into bankruptcy, and the building remained empty for many years. The bank tried to sell it to Martin & Schwartz but they declined, and only after being offered Norman Holland’s new building on Mill Street did they decide to move their operation from Buffalo, NY to Salisbury. Mr. Holland had built the building as a warehouse for his concrete business, but he saw the need for Salisbury to acquire a new business. So, the shirt factory building sat empty. It was considered an economic white elephant. It was used for awhile by the McCloskey-Grant Company from Philadelphia. Then, when Lowe’s moved to Salisbury, they used it until they built a new store on the corner of Old Ocean City Road and Moss Hill Lane.
From that point on, the old shirt factory building sat empty until it was demolished a few years ago. A medical facility and parking lot now occupy the spot on the S-curve of S. Salisbury Boulevard.
Riding around Salisbury, my observation is that many old business establishments are now part of the medical industry or are some bureaucratic entity – neither of which contributes to the financial future of Salisbury.
Candidate Wavers After Blog Attacks
SALISBURY -- Salisbury attorney Matt Maciarello plans to decide Monday whether to proceed as a Republican candidate for Wicomico County state's attorney.Maciarello filed to run June 21. The next day, he announced he would pull out of the race. He cited personal attacks posted against opponent Davis Ruark on a local blog as the reason for his departure.
But Maciarello now says his decision to quit the race was a "snap judgment in the middle of the night" and he "made a mistake" in hastily pulling out. He said he'll spend the weekend to reflect upon his goals.
"I'm sorry, but I'm not a politician. This was my first taste of politics and it was initially disgusting," he said. "I did not know any other way to distance myself from these people making disgusting, disparaging remarks (online) about Davis Ruark. I do know that Davis read them, and that he was hurt by them. Any human being who would see that on the Internet would be hurt."
The deadline for Republicans to bring a candidate to the table was July 21, and if Maciarello exits the race, Ruark will run unopposed. Ruark was appointed to office in 1987 and has not faced an opponent in an election since.
Ruark declined to comment.
"I made a promise to Matt that I would not comment until Monday, and I will adhere to that promise," the incumbent said.
Maciarello, who works as a partner at the law firm Hearne & Bailey, P.A., said immediately after the death of Assistant State's Attorney Sam Vincent -- who had planned his own campaign to challenge Ruark -- a group of attorneys asked him to run. He initially declined.
"People really have to understand, when Sam died, it just threw everybody out of kilter," he said. "There was no way a person could grieve for Sam, put together a campaign, and jump into a race that a very good, honorable and decent man left. It's very sad. Sam was such a great person."
He called it a "very heavy decision" that would put his reputation as an attorney on the line.
"When you run against an entrenched incumbent, there are huge risks," he said. "I was willing to risk it because of my sense of duty. The risks are exactly what happened."
John Bartkovich, chairman of the Wicomico Republican committee, said he hopes Maciarello will stay in the race.
"We think he's great candidate, we think he has the credentials and we're excited about his prospects," he said. "If he doesn't, then we're stuck. My candidate will run a very positive campaign, and as a result, the voters will see that he will make a very good state's attorney. I think he made the right decision to run. The wave of negativity in the blogs should not dissuade him from the quality of his decision."
bshane@dmg.gannett.com
410-213-9442, ext. 14
The Daily Times
Pay Czar: ‘Ill Advised’ Bonuses At 17 Banks
The Treasury Department's pay czar says 17 banks gave their top executives $1.6 billion in lavish payments while they were receiving billions of dollars in taxpayer-funded bailouts.
GO HERE to read more.
GO HERE to read more.
Cat Roundup In Maryland
Animal Control paid a visit to a Bryans Road, Md., woman whose collection of cats was taking over the neighborhood.
Neighbors said cat hoarding has been a problem at the Boxwood Circle home for at least 10 years. At 1:30 p.m. Friday, Animal Control showed up with a warrant and began rounding up cats. One neighbor said as many as 21 cats had been taken away before authorities went inside the house.
Friday's wasn't the first Animal Control visit to the home. About two years ago, neighbors helped authorities round up cats from the home. Forty-one cats were caught that day.
After that, the woman wasn't supposed to have anymore cats, her neighbor Danny Hainey said.
Experts say cat hoarding is dangerous, especially for the cats. Even after the cats are removed from such homes, many get diseases and must be euthanized.
Source
Neighbors said cat hoarding has been a problem at the Boxwood Circle home for at least 10 years. At 1:30 p.m. Friday, Animal Control showed up with a warrant and began rounding up cats. One neighbor said as many as 21 cats had been taken away before authorities went inside the house.
Friday's wasn't the first Animal Control visit to the home. About two years ago, neighbors helped authorities round up cats from the home. Forty-one cats were caught that day.
After that, the woman wasn't supposed to have anymore cats, her neighbor Danny Hainey said.
Experts say cat hoarding is dangerous, especially for the cats. Even after the cats are removed from such homes, many get diseases and must be euthanized.
Source
Senate Passes $60B War Bill, Kills House Add-Ons
The Senate passed a $60 billion bill to fund President Barack Obama's troop surge in Afghanistan Thursday night after rejecting more than $20 billion in domestic spending the House had tacked on.
In a take-it-or-leave-it gesture, the Senate Thursday returned to the House a measure limited chiefly to war funding, foreign aid, medical care for Vietnam War veterans exposed to Agent Orange, and replenishing almost empty disaster aid accounts.
The moves repel a long-shot bid by House Democrats earlier this month to resurrect their faltering jobs agenda with $10 billion in grants to school districts to avoid teacher layoffs, $5 billion for Pell Grants to low-income college students, $1 billion for a summer jobs program, and $700 million to improve security along the U.S.-Mexico border.
The House bill fell prey to a 46-51 tally that fell short of a simple majority, much less the 60 votes required to defeat a filibuster. The Senate is instead insisting on its almost $60 billion version of the measure, passed on a bipartisan vote in May.
The Senate measure is likely to be grudgingly accepted by House Democrats next week despite opposition by many liberals to the war in Afghanistan, which many of them view as unwinnable.
Defense Secretary Robert Gates has been agitating for the money and warned lawmakers this week that unless the measure is enacted into law before Congress leaves for its August recess, the Pentagon could have to furlough thousands of employees.
In a take-it-or-leave-it gesture, the Senate Thursday returned to the House a measure limited chiefly to war funding, foreign aid, medical care for Vietnam War veterans exposed to Agent Orange, and replenishing almost empty disaster aid accounts.
The moves repel a long-shot bid by House Democrats earlier this month to resurrect their faltering jobs agenda with $10 billion in grants to school districts to avoid teacher layoffs, $5 billion for Pell Grants to low-income college students, $1 billion for a summer jobs program, and $700 million to improve security along the U.S.-Mexico border.
The House bill fell prey to a 46-51 tally that fell short of a simple majority, much less the 60 votes required to defeat a filibuster. The Senate is instead insisting on its almost $60 billion version of the measure, passed on a bipartisan vote in May.
The Senate measure is likely to be grudgingly accepted by House Democrats next week despite opposition by many liberals to the war in Afghanistan, which many of them view as unwinnable.
Defense Secretary Robert Gates has been agitating for the money and warned lawmakers this week that unless the measure is enacted into law before Congress leaves for its August recess, the Pentagon could have to furlough thousands of employees.
Faltering Economy, Senate Revolt On Bush Tax Cuts Don't Faze Obama
Struggling to get back on message after a week of battling other controversies, President Obama touted what he called "enormous progress" made on the economy — while ignoring a growing insurgency from Democrats who want to renew the expiring Bush tax cuts in order to stave off a double-dip recession.
Speaking from the West Wing shortly after noon Friday, the president escalated his recent campaign of lambasting Republicans and Wall Street bankers, despite increasing concerns that the anti-business rhetoric discourages job creation.
Citing the Friday report from White House "pay czar" Kenneth Feinberg naming 17 financial institutions that distributed $1.6 billion in executive compensation, Obama excoriated the banks for paying out "lavish bonuses at the height of the financial crisis."
During his five-minute statement, the president again criticized his Republican opponents for "political games."
Looking to fire up the Democratic base for the looming midterms, Obama said of the extension of unemployment benefits: "We finally overcame the procedural blockade of a partisan minority in the Senate to restore unemployment insurance for about 2.5 million Americans who are out of work and looking for a job."
He also delivered a lecture on bipartisanship.
More
Speaking from the West Wing shortly after noon Friday, the president escalated his recent campaign of lambasting Republicans and Wall Street bankers, despite increasing concerns that the anti-business rhetoric discourages job creation.
Citing the Friday report from White House "pay czar" Kenneth Feinberg naming 17 financial institutions that distributed $1.6 billion in executive compensation, Obama excoriated the banks for paying out "lavish bonuses at the height of the financial crisis."
During his five-minute statement, the president again criticized his Republican opponents for "political games."
Looking to fire up the Democratic base for the looming midterms, Obama said of the extension of unemployment benefits: "We finally overcame the procedural blockade of a partisan minority in the Senate to restore unemployment insurance for about 2.5 million Americans who are out of work and looking for a job."
He also delivered a lecture on bipartisanship.
More
Nine Questions
There are only nine questions.
This is a quiz for people who know everything! I found out in a hurry that I didn't. These are not trick questions. They are straight questions with straight answers.
1. Name the one sport in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends.
2. What famous North American landmark is constantly moving backward?
3. Of all vegetables, only two can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons. All other vegetables must be replanted every year. What are the only two perennial vegetables?
4. What fruit has its seeds on the outside?
5.. In many liquor stores, you can buy pear brandy, with a real pear inside the bottle. The pear is whole and ripe, and the bottle is genuine; it hasn't been cut in any way. How did the pear get inside the bottle?
6. Only three words in standard English begin with the letters ' dw' and they are all common words. Name two of them.
7 There are 14 punctuation marks in English grammar.
Can you name at least half of them?
8. Name the only vegetable or fruit that is never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form except fresh.
9. Name 6 or more things that you can wear on your feet beginning with the letter 'S.'
Okay, here are the answers to the quiz:
1. The one sport in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends: Boxing.
2. North American landmark that is constantly moving backward:
Niagara Falls . (The rim is worn down about two and a half feet each year because of the millions of gallons of water that rush over it every minute.)
3. Only two vegetables that can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons:
Asparagus and rhubarb.
4. The fruit with its seeds on the outside: Strawberry.
5. How did the pear get inside the brandy bottle?
It grew inside the bottle. The bottles are placed over pear buds when they are small, and are wired in place on the tree. The bottle is left in place for the entire growing season. When the pears are ripe, they are snipped off at the stems.
6. The three English words beginning with dw: Dwarf, dwell and dwindle.
7. Fourteen punctuation marks in English grammar: Period, comma, colon, semicolon, dash, hyphen, question mark, apostrophe, exclamation point, quotation mark, brackets, parenthesis, braces, and ellipses.
8. The only vegetable or fruit never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form but fresh:
Lettuce.
9. Six or more things you can wear on your feet beginning with 'S':
Shoes, socks, sandals, sneakers, slippers, skis, skates, snowshoes, stockings, stilts.
This is a quiz for people who know everything! I found out in a hurry that I didn't. These are not trick questions. They are straight questions with straight answers.
1. Name the one sport in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends.
2. What famous North American landmark is constantly moving backward?
3. Of all vegetables, only two can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons. All other vegetables must be replanted every year. What are the only two perennial vegetables?
4. What fruit has its seeds on the outside?
5.. In many liquor stores, you can buy pear brandy, with a real pear inside the bottle. The pear is whole and ripe, and the bottle is genuine; it hasn't been cut in any way. How did the pear get inside the bottle?
6. Only three words in standard English begin with the letters ' dw' and they are all common words. Name two of them.
7 There are 14 punctuation marks in English grammar.
Can you name at least half of them?
8. Name the only vegetable or fruit that is never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form except fresh.
9. Name 6 or more things that you can wear on your feet beginning with the letter 'S.'
Okay, here are the answers to the quiz:
1. The one sport in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends: Boxing.
2. North American landmark that is constantly moving backward:
Niagara Falls . (The rim is worn down about two and a half feet each year because of the millions of gallons of water that rush over it every minute.)
3. Only two vegetables that can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons:
Asparagus and rhubarb.
4. The fruit with its seeds on the outside: Strawberry.
5. How did the pear get inside the brandy bottle?
It grew inside the bottle. The bottles are placed over pear buds when they are small, and are wired in place on the tree. The bottle is left in place for the entire growing season. When the pears are ripe, they are snipped off at the stems.
6. The three English words beginning with dw: Dwarf, dwell and dwindle.
7. Fourteen punctuation marks in English grammar: Period, comma, colon, semicolon, dash, hyphen, question mark, apostrophe, exclamation point, quotation mark, brackets, parenthesis, braces, and ellipses.
8. The only vegetable or fruit never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form but fresh:
Lettuce.
9. Six or more things you can wear on your feet beginning with 'S':
Shoes, socks, sandals, sneakers, slippers, skis, skates, snowshoes, stockings, stilts.
Guilty Plea Of Pittsville Man
Local man, Donald Fosbrink who lives in Pittsville, plead guilty in Howard County courts this morning for sexual abuse charges against a minor. He will be sentenced for 10 years. Check him out on Maryland Judiciary Case Search.
The judge has granted him a week to turn him self in so that he can get his affairs in order. I'm spreading the word that a sexual predator will be roaming the streets in Pittsville for the next week. He has already plead guilty, so why should he care if anything else happens. I am afraid for my family considering that I am the victim and I live about 4 miles from him. Please help me spread the word about this guy. I don't want anything to happen from now until friday the 30th when he has to turn himself in.
Thank you for your time Joe!
The judge has granted him a week to turn him self in so that he can get his affairs in order. I'm spreading the word that a sexual predator will be roaming the streets in Pittsville for the next week. He has already plead guilty, so why should he care if anything else happens. I am afraid for my family considering that I am the victim and I live about 4 miles from him. Please help me spread the word about this guy. I don't want anything to happen from now until friday the 30th when he has to turn himself in.
Thank you for your time Joe!
Accident On Rt 113
Joe,
I am so angry right now I could punch someone. I work just north of Georgetown and live in Salisbury. When they had the funeral procession for Chad Spicer Rt. 113 was backed up in front of the Walmart in Georgetown, I don't remember what exactly was making it backed up but both lanes were open and moving really slow.
Well, impatient people started driving down the shoulder of the road to get up to the right hand turn into Walmart. While I was stopped a car came racing down the shoulder and t-boned a guy on a bicycle that had crossed the stopped highway traffic and entered the shoulder. It was the most horrific thing I have ever seen. For anyone that does not know going south there is the median (grass), the left hand lane, the right hand lane, shoulder, and then a grassy area not big enough for a vehicle.
So today I'm driving home and before the Walmart the traffic was stopped and as I began slowing up I looked in my rear view mirror and saw emergency vehicles coming up. I was in the right hand lane and came to a premature stop while the emergency vehicles passed, in the shoulder, me and other vehicles. I thought I could see more emergency vehicles further up on the shoulder so I moved over to the left hand lane when I could.
While waiting the traffic continued to back up and again impatient people started driving down the shoulder trying to get around the backed up traffic, which was not moving at all. Well, these morons in the shoulder managed to get themselves backed up, essentially creating a 3-lane highway backed up. Well here come more emergency vehicles coming down the shoulder that could not make it to the accident because of these idiots. One of the emergency vehicles was a fire truck, when I got up to the accident I only saw one fire truck. Now these emergency vehicles have to get from the shoulder and across two lanes of stopped, back to back vehicles to get to the median to be able to get to the accident.
The accident was an overturned vehicle and the firefighters were trying to free a person(s). So the firetruck I saw getting blocked by the impatient jerks in the shoulder was the only one there to cut out an injured possibly dying person(s) from the vehicle. So I hope they feel really good about themselves for delaying this person(s) help and possibly killing them for making them wait and god forbid that ever happen to them or someone they love. Shame on you!
Now once the emergency personnel had everything under control they directed us to the shoulder but that was 20 minutes later.
Thanks,
Lindsey
Arab Countries Working With Israel On Iranian Nuke Threat
Israeli Mossad chief Meir Dagan went on a secret visit to Saudi Arabia in recent weeks to discuss the threat of Iran, according to informed Arab security sources.
The security sources did not disclose specifics of the discussions except to say the topic was Iran, which is accused of building a nascent nuclear program.
Saudi Arabia does not maintain an open diplomatic relationship with Israel. But the Sunni Muslim country, together with Egypt, Jordan and other so-called moderates, is threatened by the growing influence of Iran, dominated by Shiite Islam.
There have been multiple reports of Saudi cooperation with Israel on the Iranian nuclear issue.
In 2009, it was reported Dagan met Saudi intelligence officials to gain assurances that Saudi Arabia would turn a blind eye to Israeli jets violating Saudi airspace during any raid on Iran's nuclear plans. Both governments denied thereports.
In recent weeks, Internet rumors claimed Israel dropped off military equipment in Saudi Arabia. Some unsubstantiated reports even claimed Israel was building a secret military base in Saudi Arabia for use in a future conflict with Iran. Those reports are inaccurate, according to Israeli military officials speaking to WND.
Still, Sunni Arab countries have not disguised their fear of a nuclear Iran.
Earlier this month, the United Arab Emirates' Washington ambassador publicly expressed support for a U.S. attack on Iran's nuclear facilities.
"We cannot live with a nuclear Iran," the envoy, Yousef al-Otaiba, reportedly said at a conference in Aspen, Colo.
Otaiba was quoted as saying he "absolutely" wanted the U.S. to use force to halt Iran's nuclear program.
Last December, WND quoted an Egyptian intelligence official stating Saudi Arabia is cooperating with Israel on the Iranian nuclear issue.
The official said Saudi Arabia had been passing intelligence information to Israel related to Iran. He affirmed a report from the Arab media, strongly denied by the Israeli government, thatSaudi Arabia has granted Israel overflight permission during any attack against Iran's nuclear facilities.
The security sources did not disclose specifics of the discussions except to say the topic was Iran, which is accused of building a nascent nuclear program.
Saudi Arabia does not maintain an open diplomatic relationship with Israel. But the Sunni Muslim country, together with Egypt, Jordan and other so-called moderates, is threatened by the growing influence of Iran, dominated by Shiite Islam.
There have been multiple reports of Saudi cooperation with Israel on the Iranian nuclear issue.
In 2009, it was reported Dagan met Saudi intelligence officials to gain assurances that Saudi Arabia would turn a blind eye to Israeli jets violating Saudi airspace during any raid on Iran's nuclear plans. Both governments denied thereports.
In recent weeks, Internet rumors claimed Israel dropped off military equipment in Saudi Arabia. Some unsubstantiated reports even claimed Israel was building a secret military base in Saudi Arabia for use in a future conflict with Iran. Those reports are inaccurate, according to Israeli military officials speaking to WND.
Still, Sunni Arab countries have not disguised their fear of a nuclear Iran.
Earlier this month, the United Arab Emirates' Washington ambassador publicly expressed support for a U.S. attack on Iran's nuclear facilities.
"We cannot live with a nuclear Iran," the envoy, Yousef al-Otaiba, reportedly said at a conference in Aspen, Colo.
Otaiba was quoted as saying he "absolutely" wanted the U.S. to use force to halt Iran's nuclear program.
Last December, WND quoted an Egyptian intelligence official stating Saudi Arabia is cooperating with Israel on the Iranian nuclear issue.
The official said Saudi Arabia had been passing intelligence information to Israel related to Iran. He affirmed a report from the Arab media, strongly denied by the Israeli government, thatSaudi Arabia has granted Israel overflight permission during any attack against Iran's nuclear facilities.
Congressman: Enough Of The Embarrassing Foolishness
House Democrats and Republicans have put aside their differences this year to honor the likes of golfer Phil Mickelson, the Chicago Blackhawks hockey team, NASCAR driver Jimmy Johnson and the Penn State women's volleyball team.
But when it came time this week to memorialize the start of the 142nd season of the Saratoga race course in New York, one freshman lawmaker decided he'd had enough.
"It's an absolute embarrassment," said Rep. Jason Chaffetz of Utah, announcing on the House floor a vow to vote against all future sports resolutions.
He worried that there were kids in the visitors' gallery who would go back home and, asked whether Congress was talking about war or debt, reply: "Oh no, they were honoring a race course."
"It's terribly frustrating," Chaffetz said.
The freshman Republican did appear to win a few converts: The bill passed by a mere 396-14, a high number of "no" votes for the kind of commemorative resolutions that often pass unanimously.
Every week the House spends a couple of days churning out such non-controversial bills. Beyond honoring sports achievements, they name post offices, praise armed service members, mourn distinguished people who've died and recognize historic anniversaries. This year the House has come together to support national pollinator week, national dairy month and national train day.
Chaffetz, in an interview, said he's got nothing against recognizing worthwhile causes such as breast cancer awareness, "but there are too many of them and they're just too frivolous." He said he drew the line at sports bills because athletes already get "more than their fair share of accolades."
Chaffetz gained attention earlier this year when he confronted President Barack Obama at a Republican retreat in Baltimore, accusing Obama of breaking promises to block lobbyists from administration jobs and get rid of special project spending.
He sees the resolutions as proof that Democrats are just filling time because of their inability to tackle the larger issues facing the nation.
But when it came time this week to memorialize the start of the 142nd season of the Saratoga race course in New York, one freshman lawmaker decided he'd had enough.
"It's an absolute embarrassment," said Rep. Jason Chaffetz of Utah, announcing on the House floor a vow to vote against all future sports resolutions.
He worried that there were kids in the visitors' gallery who would go back home and, asked whether Congress was talking about war or debt, reply: "Oh no, they were honoring a race course."
"It's terribly frustrating," Chaffetz said.
The freshman Republican did appear to win a few converts: The bill passed by a mere 396-14, a high number of "no" votes for the kind of commemorative resolutions that often pass unanimously.
Every week the House spends a couple of days churning out such non-controversial bills. Beyond honoring sports achievements, they name post offices, praise armed service members, mourn distinguished people who've died and recognize historic anniversaries. This year the House has come together to support national pollinator week, national dairy month and national train day.
Chaffetz, in an interview, said he's got nothing against recognizing worthwhile causes such as breast cancer awareness, "but there are too many of them and they're just too frivolous." He said he drew the line at sports bills because athletes already get "more than their fair share of accolades."
Chaffetz gained attention earlier this year when he confronted President Barack Obama at a Republican retreat in Baltimore, accusing Obama of breaking promises to block lobbyists from administration jobs and get rid of special project spending.
He sees the resolutions as proof that Democrats are just filling time because of their inability to tackle the larger issues facing the nation.
SHOREBIRDS DROP WILD AFFAIR, 9-7, TO CLOSE HICKORY SERIES
‘Birds Return to Perdue Stadium Saturday Night Against Lakewood
Hickory, N.C. – The Hickory Crawdads scored seven runs in the fifth inning and hung on tight for a 9-7 win over Delmarva on Friday night at L.P. Frans Stadium.
The Delmarva Shorebirds cracked the scoreboard first on the fourth pitch of the game. Brian Conley lashed a home run inside the foul pole in right field. It was his fifth homer of the season and second in as many nights.
The Crawdads tied the game in the third and took an 8-1 lead in the fifth by plating seven runs. Zach Zaneski hit a grand slam homer to highlight the half inning.
The Shorebirds stormed back with a run in the sixth and five runs in the eighth inning. Luis Bernardo hit a rocket line drive to the right field corner to score two runs and pull the ‘Birds within one at the time.
Hickory plated a run in the bottom of the eighth and keep the ‘Birds at bat in the ninth.
Benches cleared in the ninth inning when Kieron Pope was hit by a pinch on the upper part of his left arm for a second straight at-bat. After things settled, Ty Kelly grounded to short to end the game.
Hickory starter Robbie Erlin (5-2) earned the win in five innings. Delmarva starter Patrick Kantakevich (0-3) was pinned with the loss.
Hickory, N.C. – The Hickory Crawdads scored seven runs in the fifth inning and hung on tight for a 9-7 win over Delmarva on Friday night at L.P. Frans Stadium.
The Delmarva Shorebirds cracked the scoreboard first on the fourth pitch of the game. Brian Conley lashed a home run inside the foul pole in right field. It was his fifth homer of the season and second in as many nights.
The Crawdads tied the game in the third and took an 8-1 lead in the fifth by plating seven runs. Zach Zaneski hit a grand slam homer to highlight the half inning.
The Shorebirds stormed back with a run in the sixth and five runs in the eighth inning. Luis Bernardo hit a rocket line drive to the right field corner to score two runs and pull the ‘Birds within one at the time.
Hickory plated a run in the bottom of the eighth and keep the ‘Birds at bat in the ninth.
Benches cleared in the ninth inning when Kieron Pope was hit by a pinch on the upper part of his left arm for a second straight at-bat. After things settled, Ty Kelly grounded to short to end the game.
Hickory starter Robbie Erlin (5-2) earned the win in five innings. Delmarva starter Patrick Kantakevich (0-3) was pinned with the loss.
Poll Shows Maryland Republicans Favor Jim Rutledge
Rutledge for Senate Campaign Gaining Momentum
FOREST HILL, Maryland- U.S. Senate Candidate Jim Rutledge is considered the most viable candidate to lead the Republican Party in November based on the latest polling data. A poll conducted by Public Policy Polling and released on July 14th indicates that Maryland voters believe that Jim Rutledge would be the strongest candidate to face Barbara Mikulski. Jim Rutledge stated, "I'm encouraged by the poll results which reflect that our citizen-driven campaign is gaining momentum. Voters are engaging on the issues, taking a hard look at the people behind the candidacy, and are rejecting shallow retail politics."
The Rutledge for Senate Campaign believes the poll provides more proof that Jim Rutledge is the right candidate to take on Barbara Mikulski and her liberal Washington agenda. This poll contradicts the questionable attempts of the Wargotz Campaign to stand aloof from the field. Actions by Eric Wargotz and his campaign continue to raise serious questions. Americans are being forced to pay off billions in new debt because of the mismanagement and wrongdoing of those who ran our financial institutions. At a time when the people are demanding bold leaders who will reject the big money culture of Washington, the Wargotz Campaign accepted $4,800 from Leland Brendsel, the former CEO of Freddie Mac who paid millions in penalties imposed by the Office of Federal Housing Oversight in connection with an investigation of his mismanagement of Freddie Mac.
Jim Rutledge said, "I've wondered why Wargotz never shows up at a debate but if I had his record to defend I wouldn't show up either. If facing off against a conservative attorney is too intimidating for Wargotz, where is the courage to take the heat in Washington?"
Jim Rutledge is tired of politics as usual and believes Marylanders are getting wearier by the day of politicians who want to keep borrowing and spending their money. Jim Rutledge wants to reform Washington and put an end to the "tax and spend" policies of Barbara Mikulski.
FOREST HILL, Maryland- U.S. Senate Candidate Jim Rutledge is considered the most viable candidate to lead the Republican Party in November based on the latest polling data. A poll conducted by Public Policy Polling and released on July 14th indicates that Maryland voters believe that Jim Rutledge would be the strongest candidate to face Barbara Mikulski. Jim Rutledge stated, "I'm encouraged by the poll results which reflect that our citizen-driven campaign is gaining momentum. Voters are engaging on the issues, taking a hard look at the people behind the candidacy, and are rejecting shallow retail politics."
The Rutledge for Senate Campaign believes the poll provides more proof that Jim Rutledge is the right candidate to take on Barbara Mikulski and her liberal Washington agenda. This poll contradicts the questionable attempts of the Wargotz Campaign to stand aloof from the field. Actions by Eric Wargotz and his campaign continue to raise serious questions. Americans are being forced to pay off billions in new debt because of the mismanagement and wrongdoing of those who ran our financial institutions. At a time when the people are demanding bold leaders who will reject the big money culture of Washington, the Wargotz Campaign accepted $4,800 from Leland Brendsel, the former CEO of Freddie Mac who paid millions in penalties imposed by the Office of Federal Housing Oversight in connection with an investigation of his mismanagement of Freddie Mac.
Jim Rutledge said, "I've wondered why Wargotz never shows up at a debate but if I had his record to defend I wouldn't show up either. If facing off against a conservative attorney is too intimidating for Wargotz, where is the courage to take the heat in Washington?"
Jim Rutledge is tired of politics as usual and believes Marylanders are getting wearier by the day of politicians who want to keep borrowing and spending their money. Jim Rutledge wants to reform Washington and put an end to the "tax and spend" policies of Barbara Mikulski.
SHOREBIRDS GAME NOTES: 7/23 @ Hickory
PREVIEW: The Shorebirds dropped back into third place as Hickory took game three, 7-5 on Thursday night. The Crawdads plated two runs in the bottom of the eighth inning to break a 5-5 tie. The ‘Birds are now two games behind Lakewood for the top spot in the Northern division. Delmarva has 44 games remaining in 2010 and nine games remaining in July.
TOWNSEND GOES YARD AGAIN:
Townsend did not hit a home run in his first 22 games played season. The 3rd round selection in 2009 has hit three home runs in seven games since. Townsend has 11 RBIs in his last five games and 19 in the month of July (20 games played). The Lewes, Delaware native also has 10 hits in the last five games.
LAKEWOOD SERIES LOOMS:
The Shorebirds (third place) and BlueClaws (first place) will play a key five-game series starting on Saturday night at Perdue Stadium. The ‘Birds are 6-7 against the BlueClaws this season.
LAST TIME IN FIRST:
The Shorebirds have not had a hold of first place in the Northern Division since April 25th.
NO SERIES LOSSES:
The Shorebirds will look to avoid dropping their first since the opening series of the second half against Lakewood. The ‘Birds are 3-0-1 in their last four series.
SINCE 2005...: Since 2005, only two Shorebirds players have finished a season with an above .300 batting average with 200 or more at-bats. Ryan Adams hit .308 in 2008. Adams played in 119 games and totaled 448 at-bats. In 2005, Jason Fransz hit .308 in 103 games and 396 at-bats. Tyler Townsend has the best chance to join the .300 club. He needs 88 more at-bats to get to 200.
FIRST LEFTY:
Tonight marks the first time since July 6 that the Shorebirds will face a left-handed starter. The ‘Birds faced 14 straight right-handed starters. Robbie Erlin, who is starting tonight, is also the last lefty to start against Delmarva.
TOWNSEND GOES YARD AGAIN:
Townsend did not hit a home run in his first 22 games played season. The 3rd round selection in 2009 has hit three home runs in seven games since. Townsend has 11 RBIs in his last five games and 19 in the month of July (20 games played). The Lewes, Delaware native also has 10 hits in the last five games.
LAKEWOOD SERIES LOOMS:
The Shorebirds (third place) and BlueClaws (first place) will play a key five-game series starting on Saturday night at Perdue Stadium. The ‘Birds are 6-7 against the BlueClaws this season.
LAST TIME IN FIRST:
The Shorebirds have not had a hold of first place in the Northern Division since April 25th.
NO SERIES LOSSES:
The Shorebirds will look to avoid dropping their first since the opening series of the second half against Lakewood. The ‘Birds are 3-0-1 in their last four series.
SINCE 2005...: Since 2005, only two Shorebirds players have finished a season with an above .300 batting average with 200 or more at-bats. Ryan Adams hit .308 in 2008. Adams played in 119 games and totaled 448 at-bats. In 2005, Jason Fransz hit .308 in 103 games and 396 at-bats. Tyler Townsend has the best chance to join the .300 club. He needs 88 more at-bats to get to 200.
FIRST LEFTY:
Tonight marks the first time since July 6 that the Shorebirds will face a left-handed starter. The ‘Birds faced 14 straight right-handed starters. Robbie Erlin, who is starting tonight, is also the last lefty to start against Delmarva.
Something To Think About
Imagine that you had won the following prize in a contest: Each morning your bank would deposit $86,400.00 in your private account for your use.
However,this prize has rules, just as any game has certain rules.
The first set of rules would be:
Everything that you didn't spend during each day would be taken away from you.
You may not simply transfer money into some other account.
You may only spend it.
Each morning upon awakening, the bank opens your account with another $86,400.00 for that day.
The second set of rules:
The bank can end the game without warning; at any time it can say, Its over,the game is over! It can close the account and you will not receive a new one.
What would you personally do?
You would buy anything and everything you wanted right? Not only for yourself, but for all people you love, right? Even for people you don't know, because you couldn't possibly spend it all on yourself, right? You would try to spend every cent, and use it all, right?
ACTUALLY This GAME is REALITY!
Each of us is in possession of such a magical bank. We just can't seem to see it.
The MAGICAL BANK is TIME!
Each morning we awaken to receive 86,400 seconds as a gift of life, and when we go to sleep at night, any remaining time is NOT credited to us.
What we haven't lived up that day is forever lost.
Yesterday is forever gone.
Each morning the account is refilled, but the bank can dissolve your account at any time....WITHOUT WARNING.
SO, what will YOU do with your 86,400 seconds?
Those seconds are worth so much more than the same amount in dollars.
Think about that, and always think of this:
Enjoy every second of your life, because time races by so much quicker than you think.
So take care of yourself, be Happy, Love Deeply and enjoy life!
Here's wishing ya'll a wonderfully beautiful day.
Start spending.
However,this prize has rules, just as any game has certain rules.
The first set of rules would be:
Everything that you didn't spend during each day would be taken away from you.
You may not simply transfer money into some other account.
You may only spend it.
Each morning upon awakening, the bank opens your account with another $86,400.00 for that day.
The second set of rules:
The bank can end the game without warning; at any time it can say, Its over,the game is over! It can close the account and you will not receive a new one.
What would you personally do?
You would buy anything and everything you wanted right? Not only for yourself, but for all people you love, right? Even for people you don't know, because you couldn't possibly spend it all on yourself, right? You would try to spend every cent, and use it all, right?
ACTUALLY This GAME is REALITY!
Each of us is in possession of such a magical bank. We just can't seem to see it.
The MAGICAL BANK is TIME!
Each morning we awaken to receive 86,400 seconds as a gift of life, and when we go to sleep at night, any remaining time is NOT credited to us.
What we haven't lived up that day is forever lost.
Yesterday is forever gone.
Each morning the account is refilled, but the bank can dissolve your account at any time....WITHOUT WARNING.
SO, what will YOU do with your 86,400 seconds?
Those seconds are worth so much more than the same amount in dollars.
Think about that, and always think of this:
Enjoy every second of your life, because time races by so much quicker than you think.
So take care of yourself, be Happy, Love Deeply and enjoy life!
Here's wishing ya'll a wonderfully beautiful day.
Start spending.
A Letter To The Editor
Hello. I find your blog page to be very informative. You've done a wonderful job with your blog site and it is quite popular. I was hoping that you could possibly help me. A young woman came to me in need of help. She also is a single Mother, and being a Mom, I wanted to help her as much as I could. She had just been in a very abusive relationship and ended up with some minor court troubles, and knowing that she had always been responsible in the past, I signed for her bond.
Unfortunately, she now is no where to be found, and did not show up for court. I think maybe she was scared, I don't know. However, now, because of this, I am being told that I could loose my home and am out the money I put up for the bond. She is currently wanted in Maryland and Delaware. I did not know about Delaware, but since that is where I live, I understand that I am facing not only a financial burden, but could loose our home. I am also concerned about the young woman since no one has heard from her and her cell phone is no longer working.
Any assistance you could give would be most appreciated! I know you have thousands of readers daily, and was hoping with your help we can find her and get her the help that she needs and allow my Son and I to remain in our home.
Thank you so much! I'm a big fan of your work!
Please see the attached information and if you could please post as soon as possible.
Thanks again!
Lynn Sanchez
WANTED: CINDY LEE LYNCH
PA#: S10-1568146 Date: 4/16/2010 Bond: $5,000.00 Prem: $500.00 DEF: $0.00 Address: 33724 WILGUS CEMETARY RD. FRANKFORD, DE 19945 HPH: CELL: SS#: DOB: 8/27/1973 R/S: WF AGT: RNB Employer: SERVICE EXPERTS
PLEASE CONTACT MARYLAND STATE POLICE IF YOU HAVE SEEN THIS INDIVIDUAL
(410) 653-4200 (800) 525-5555 (410) 486-0677 (TDD)
HOW LONG HAVE YOU OWNED YOUR CAR?
Mr. Allen Swift of Springfield, MA, received this 1928 Rolls-Royce Picadilly P1 Roadster from his father, brand new, as a graduation gift in 1928. He drove it up until his death last year at age 102. He is the oldest living owner of a car from new. Just thought you'd like to see it. He donated it to a Springfield museum after his death. It has 170,000 miles on it, still runs like a Swiss watch, is dead silent at any speed, and is in perfect cosmetic condition.
Health Care Reform
Dear Mr. X:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about health care reform. It's good to hear from you.
I appreciate hearing your opposition to the health care reform bills that have been signed into law - the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148) and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act (Public Law 111-152). While these bills are not perfect, I am proud of what we were able to accomplish. We passed a health reform law that saves and strengthens Medicare; makes sure insurance companies can't discriminate against you because of a pre-existing condition, or because of your age or gender; provides universal access to health care, and emphasizes quality, prevention and integrative health to save lives and save money. These are the principles of health reform that I have been committed to and have been fighting for throughout my career.
The health reform bills will also improve our economy by reducing the federal deficit by $143 billion over the next ten years.
As we move forward, I do believe America will be better served by having guaranteed access to affordable, comprehensive, quality health care.
Thanks once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance in the future.
Sincerely, Barbara A. MikulskiUnited States Senator Please do not respond directly to this e-mail. The originating e-mail account is not monitored.If you would like to get in touch with me again, please visit my Webform at http://mikulski.senate.gov/Contact/contact.cfm
Thank you for getting in touch with me about health care reform. It's good to hear from you.
I appreciate hearing your opposition to the health care reform bills that have been signed into law - the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148) and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act (Public Law 111-152). While these bills are not perfect, I am proud of what we were able to accomplish. We passed a health reform law that saves and strengthens Medicare; makes sure insurance companies can't discriminate against you because of a pre-existing condition, or because of your age or gender; provides universal access to health care, and emphasizes quality, prevention and integrative health to save lives and save money. These are the principles of health reform that I have been committed to and have been fighting for throughout my career.
The health reform bills will also improve our economy by reducing the federal deficit by $143 billion over the next ten years.
As we move forward, I do believe America will be better served by having guaranteed access to affordable, comprehensive, quality health care.
Thanks once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance in the future.
Sincerely, Barbara A. MikulskiUnited States Senator Please do not respond directly to this e-mail. The originating e-mail account is not monitored.If you would like to get in touch with me again, please visit my Webform at http://mikulski.senate.gov/Contact/contact.cfm
National Night Out 2010
Tuesday Aug 3, 2010 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Description: Come and enjoy Fruitland’s National Night Out, Tuesday, August 3, 2010.
Music, Food, Fire truck rides, K-9 demonstration, Moon Bounces, Face Painting, and more!
*Free Admission*
Description: Come and enjoy Fruitland’s National Night Out, Tuesday, August 3, 2010.
Music, Food, Fire truck rides, K-9 demonstration, Moon Bounces, Face Painting, and more!
*Free Admission*
Location: Fruitland Little League Complex, 200 South Brown Street Fruitland, Maryland
Details: National Night Out (NNO), America’s Night Out Against Crime, will be observed Tuesday, August 3, 2010 from 5pm to 8pm. National Night Out is a crime and drug prevention event that is sponsored nationally by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Fruitland Police Department.
This year is the twenty-seventh anniversary of this event with over 34 million people across the country expected to participate. Safety in Numbers is the Fruitland Police Department’s NNO theme this year in support of Project Safe Neighborhood’s 2010 initiative to further mobilize residents against gun crime and violence. Stay tuned for details 2010 NNO activities and registration guidelines.
National Night Out 2009, celebrated August 4, 2009, was a tremendous demonstration of Fruitland’s community spirit and collective resolve to abate crime and keep the community safe. Based on feedback from City administrators, community leaders and police officials, 2009 set a precedent in terms of the enthusiasm shown and synergy created by organizers, residents and police officers alike who participated in NNO festivities.
Details: National Night Out (NNO), America’s Night Out Against Crime, will be observed Tuesday, August 3, 2010 from 5pm to 8pm. National Night Out is a crime and drug prevention event that is sponsored nationally by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Fruitland Police Department.
This year is the twenty-seventh anniversary of this event with over 34 million people across the country expected to participate. Safety in Numbers is the Fruitland Police Department’s NNO theme this year in support of Project Safe Neighborhood’s 2010 initiative to further mobilize residents against gun crime and violence. Stay tuned for details 2010 NNO activities and registration guidelines.
National Night Out 2009, celebrated August 4, 2009, was a tremendous demonstration of Fruitland’s community spirit and collective resolve to abate crime and keep the community safe. Based on feedback from City administrators, community leaders and police officials, 2009 set a precedent in terms of the enthusiasm shown and synergy created by organizers, residents and police officers alike who participated in NNO festivities.
Alleged Drunk Driver Flees From Police
Location:
Hebron Road Rehoboth, De
DATE and TIME:
Thursday July 22, 2010, 12:40 a.m.
Defendant(s):
Peter N. Minetree-38, Maple RD Lewes, De
Charge(s) and Bond Information:
Resisting Arrest
Driving under the Influence of Alcohol
Driving While Suspended
Failure to Have Insurance Identification
Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign
2 counts Driving the Wrong Way on a One Way Road
Driving Vehicle at Unreasonable Speed
Remanded to Sussex Correctional Institute in lieu of $6,100 cash bail
Hebron Road Rehoboth, De
DATE and TIME:
Thursday July 22, 2010, 12:40 a.m.
Defendant(s):
Peter N. Minetree-38, Maple RD Lewes, De
Charge(s) and Bond Information:
Resisting Arrest
Driving under the Influence of Alcohol
Driving While Suspended
Failure to Have Insurance Identification
Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign
2 counts Driving the Wrong Way on a One Way Road
Driving Vehicle at Unreasonable Speed
Remanded to Sussex Correctional Institute in lieu of $6,100 cash bail
Resume:
Delaware State Police early Thursday morning observed a vehicle on Hebron road Rehoboth. What was different about this vehicle is that the operator was parked in the middle of the road with the engine running.
At 12:40 a.m. State Troopers contacted the operator Peter N. Minetree of Maple Road Lewes, Delaware. Troopers asked for Minetree’s identification however instead of presenting a license Minetree put the vehicle and drive and fled the area.
Minetree fled in a green van and Troopers followed suit. Minetree turned onto Coastal Highway and began traveling southbound in the northbound lanes. Minetree next turned onto Oyster House Road and eventually back onto Coastal Highway. The only problem was that Minetree was now traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of travel. Minetree turned into the Eagles Landing Development behind the Big Fish Grill and fled on foot.
Minetree was apprehended a short time later and charged him with the above offenses. Minetree was remanded to Sussex Correctional Institute in lieu of $6,100 cash bail.
Delaware State Police early Thursday morning observed a vehicle on Hebron road Rehoboth. What was different about this vehicle is that the operator was parked in the middle of the road with the engine running.
At 12:40 a.m. State Troopers contacted the operator Peter N. Minetree of Maple Road Lewes, Delaware. Troopers asked for Minetree’s identification however instead of presenting a license Minetree put the vehicle and drive and fled the area.
Minetree fled in a green van and Troopers followed suit. Minetree turned onto Coastal Highway and began traveling southbound in the northbound lanes. Minetree next turned onto Oyster House Road and eventually back onto Coastal Highway. The only problem was that Minetree was now traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of travel. Minetree turned into the Eagles Landing Development behind the Big Fish Grill and fled on foot.
Minetree was apprehended a short time later and charged him with the above offenses. Minetree was remanded to Sussex Correctional Institute in lieu of $6,100 cash bail.
Man Who Hates Clipping Coupons Uses Coupons To Spend $1 Per Day On Food
Sure, the exploits of the coupon ninjas are interesting, but we live, shop, and eat in the real world. Who has time to make a job--or at least a time-consuming hobby--out of couponing? Jeffrey doesn't. Yet he began a challenge to feed himself on $1 per day in April...and is still at it. Using sales, coupons, and (ugh) rebates, he's managed to survive, without a huge time investment in couponing. What are his secrets?
More »
More »
Walmart To Put RFID Tags In Your Undies
In an effort to better track inventory of its clothing items, Walmart is planning to start placing removable RFID tags on individual pairs of jeans and underwear. But some privacy advocates worry that the tags may allow unscrupulous types to learn more about your purchasing habits than you'd generally care to share.
More »
More »
Indian Government Announces $35 Tablet Computer
Want a tablet computer but don't have the cash? There's some good news for you, the government in India has just unveiled the prototype of a tablet they claim will only cost around $35 each.
STATE POLICE MAJOR REPRESENTS MARYLAND LAW ENFORCEMENT IN NATIONAL TORCH RUN FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS
(Pikesville, MD) – When asked what he did on his summer vacation, a Maryland State Police major has plenty of stories to tell about running past miles of mid-western cornfields with dozens of other police officers as they raised awareness for Special Olympics as part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run.
Major Pete Landon, 48, a 25-year veteran of the Maryland State Police, who lives on the Upper Eastern Shore, was the state’s representative in the Law Enforcement Torch Run through Nebraska that led up to the national Special Olympics Summer Games in Lincoln. He was chosen earlier this year to represent the Maryland Law Enforcement Torch Run, which is comprised of thousands of police officers, correctional officers, parole and probation agents, and other criminal justice professionals who work each year to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Maryland.
Major Landon left Maryland July 9th and landed in Des Moines, Iowa for the start of the run. After joining up with fellow police officers from 47 states, as well as Special Olympics athletes from across the country, teams were assigned and the runners headed into Nebraska. During the next nine days, Major Landon personally ran more than 100 miles and was part of dozens of Torch Run ceremonies held in about 70 Nebraska cities and towns. He returned to Maryland earlier this week tired, but excited.
“I’ve been involved with the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics since its inception, but I never truly realized the impact police officers have nationally and internationally on Special Olympics athletes until this experience,” Major Landon said. “We have a job where we usually see people at their worst. This was a unique opportunity to see some incredible people at their best. It was wonderful for me to realize that I had just a small part in the overall amazing miracle of Special Olympics.”
Major Landon said one of the most meaningful elements of his experience was getting to know Special Olympics athletes who were part of the run, or who were from the towns they ran through. “The neatest thing was meeting the Nebraska Special Olympics athletes in their home towns and then seeing them at the opening ceremonies,” Major Landon said. “As a police officer, we rarely get to see genuine excitement on someone’s face. In every town we ran into and especially at the opening ceremonies, I saw real excitement over and over again on the faces of the children and adults who were a part of the Special Olympics National Summer Games.”
“I formed many friendships during this trip, but the most memorable was the friendship I formed with the 37-year-old Special Olympics athlete from Amityville, New York, who was assigned to our running team,” Major Landon said. “At first, he was very shy and would talk to none of the police officers on the team. By the end of our time running together, he was very talkative and a real inspiration to all of us on the team. I had the privilege of giving him my Maryland State Police Stetson hat and making him an honorary state trooper, of which he was very proud.”
When he is not running or volunteering for Special Olympics Maryland, Major Landon is an assistant bureau chief in the Field Operations Bureau of the Maryland State Police. He oversees the Special Operations Division, the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division, and the Automotive Safety Enforcement Division.
Major Landon lives on the Upper Shore with his wife and two sons. Both his sons also volunteer for Special Olympics and have joined their dad as Super Plungers, during the grueling event in which participants jump into the Chesapeake Bay once an hour for 24 hours in January, the day before the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge. Last year, the Super Plunge alone raised about $500,000 for Special Olympics.
Major Landon is also personally involved in logistics planning for the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge each year. He directs law enforcement involvement with traffic control and security for the event. Last year, more than 25,000 people attended the Polar Bear Plunge and Plungapalooza Festival at Sandy Point State Park, which helped raise about $3 million for Special Olympics Maryland.
Special Olympics Maryland is a non-profit organization that provides year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Those programs are provided free-of-charge, thanks to the dedicated volunteers like Major Landon and the generous people of Maryland who donate money to support Special Olympics.
Major Pete Landon, 48, a 25-year veteran of the Maryland State Police, who lives on the Upper Eastern Shore, was the state’s representative in the Law Enforcement Torch Run through Nebraska that led up to the national Special Olympics Summer Games in Lincoln. He was chosen earlier this year to represent the Maryland Law Enforcement Torch Run, which is comprised of thousands of police officers, correctional officers, parole and probation agents, and other criminal justice professionals who work each year to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Maryland.
Major Landon left Maryland July 9th and landed in Des Moines, Iowa for the start of the run. After joining up with fellow police officers from 47 states, as well as Special Olympics athletes from across the country, teams were assigned and the runners headed into Nebraska. During the next nine days, Major Landon personally ran more than 100 miles and was part of dozens of Torch Run ceremonies held in about 70 Nebraska cities and towns. He returned to Maryland earlier this week tired, but excited.
“I’ve been involved with the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics since its inception, but I never truly realized the impact police officers have nationally and internationally on Special Olympics athletes until this experience,” Major Landon said. “We have a job where we usually see people at their worst. This was a unique opportunity to see some incredible people at their best. It was wonderful for me to realize that I had just a small part in the overall amazing miracle of Special Olympics.”
Major Landon said one of the most meaningful elements of his experience was getting to know Special Olympics athletes who were part of the run, or who were from the towns they ran through. “The neatest thing was meeting the Nebraska Special Olympics athletes in their home towns and then seeing them at the opening ceremonies,” Major Landon said. “As a police officer, we rarely get to see genuine excitement on someone’s face. In every town we ran into and especially at the opening ceremonies, I saw real excitement over and over again on the faces of the children and adults who were a part of the Special Olympics National Summer Games.”
“I formed many friendships during this trip, but the most memorable was the friendship I formed with the 37-year-old Special Olympics athlete from Amityville, New York, who was assigned to our running team,” Major Landon said. “At first, he was very shy and would talk to none of the police officers on the team. By the end of our time running together, he was very talkative and a real inspiration to all of us on the team. I had the privilege of giving him my Maryland State Police Stetson hat and making him an honorary state trooper, of which he was very proud.”
When he is not running or volunteering for Special Olympics Maryland, Major Landon is an assistant bureau chief in the Field Operations Bureau of the Maryland State Police. He oversees the Special Operations Division, the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division, and the Automotive Safety Enforcement Division.
Major Landon lives on the Upper Shore with his wife and two sons. Both his sons also volunteer for Special Olympics and have joined their dad as Super Plungers, during the grueling event in which participants jump into the Chesapeake Bay once an hour for 24 hours in January, the day before the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge. Last year, the Super Plunge alone raised about $500,000 for Special Olympics.
Major Landon is also personally involved in logistics planning for the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge each year. He directs law enforcement involvement with traffic control and security for the event. Last year, more than 25,000 people attended the Polar Bear Plunge and Plungapalooza Festival at Sandy Point State Park, which helped raise about $3 million for Special Olympics Maryland.
Special Olympics Maryland is a non-profit organization that provides year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Those programs are provided free-of-charge, thanks to the dedicated volunteers like Major Landon and the generous people of Maryland who donate money to support Special Olympics.
2010 MSA Results Show Gains By Most Wicomico Elementary And Middle Schools
Opportunities for Improvement Remain
Results from the 2010 administration of the Maryland School Assessment (MSA) show that many Wicomico students and schools continue to meet the annual targets for higher performance, but some schools and subgroups struggled to make progress.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen told the Wicomico County Board of Education Tuesday that this year’s MSA results show that most schools are moving toward the goal of having 100 percent of students scoring proficient or advanced by 2014.
He was delighted to announce that Salisbury Middle School has exited the School Improvement Process. With a great deal of hard work by students and staff, the school achieved Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for two consecutive years and is no longer in School Improvement with the state.
Wicomico made gains overall in the percent proficient/advanced for Math MSA in grades 3, 5, 6 and 8, with a significant increase in Math MSA proficient scores in grade 6. The African-American subgroup made gains on the Math MSA in grades 3, 6 and 8, with a significant increase in grade 6.
The percent of students receiving Special Education services who scored at the proficient/advanced level for the Reading MSA increased in grades 4 and 6, and for the Math MSA in grades 6 and 7. The FARMS (Free and Reduced Meals) subgroup made Math MSA gains in grades 3, 5, 6 and 8, with significant increases in grades 3 and 6.
As part of the ongoing effort to ensure that schools help students improve their performance on MSA and that schools meet AYP, Central Office supervisors have been assigned responsibility for specific elementary and middle schools. The supervisors will work closely with the administrators and teachers at those schools to support progress.
“In general, we are making good progress on the MSA,” Dr. Fredericksen said. “As we continue to move toward the 2014 deadline of having all students score at the proficient or advanced level, we are going to work every day to meet that challenge.”
While most Wicomico elementary and middle schools made AYP, these schools did not:
Wicomico Middle did not meet AYP due to Reading MSA and Math MSA scores for all students and the African-American, FARMS and Special Education subgroups. Wicomico Middle, a Priority Comprehensive Needs School, is now in Year 4 of the School Improvement Process, The school must work this year to prepare an Alternative Governance Plan for submission to the Maryland State Department of Education. (Schools that reach Year 5 must implement the Alternative Governance Plan.)
Bennett Middle did not meet AYP due to scores on the Reading MSA for all and the subgroups for African-Americans, Hispanics, FARMS, Special Education and Limited English Proficiency, and due to scores on the Math MSA for the subgroups for African-Americans, FARMS, Special Education and Limited English Proficiency. Bennett Middle is in Year 1 of School Improvement as a Developing Comprehensive Needs School.
Two primary-grade schools, Charles H. Chipman Elementary and Fruitland Primary, did not meet AYP based on their former students’ performance on MSA. Former Chipman students did not achieve high enough results on the Reading MSA in the Special Education subgroup, while Fruitland Primary’s former students did not achieve the required results in the African-American and Special Education subgroups for Reading and the African-American subgroup for Math. These schools will receive local attention and are not in the state School Improvement Process.
Glen Avenue Elementary did not make AYP due to scores in the Special Education subgroup for both Math and Reading. The school will receive local attention and is not in School Improvement.
Pittsville Elementary and Middle did not make AYP due to Reading MSA scores for the African-American subgroup. The school will receive local attention and is not in School Improvement.
Prince Street Elementary did not make AYP due to Reading and Math MSA scores for all and the subgroups for African-American, FARMS and Special Education. The school will receive local attention and is not in School Improvement.
The 2010 report on AYP status of elementary and middle schools, based on MSA results, is “a big concern to us. We want all of our schools and all of our students to succeed,” Dr. Fredericksen said. “We are going to take no excuses. We are going to do whatever it takes to succeed with these students.”
AYP information for high schools and for the county school system as a whole will be available later this summer. Dr. Fredericksen said he is very pleased that, for the second straight year, Wicomico ensured that every senior who met the state’s other graduation requirements (for credit hours and service-learning) also met the Maryland requirement of passing the High School Assessments (HSAs).
Results from the 2010 administration of the Maryland School Assessment (MSA) show that many Wicomico students and schools continue to meet the annual targets for higher performance, but some schools and subgroups struggled to make progress.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen told the Wicomico County Board of Education Tuesday that this year’s MSA results show that most schools are moving toward the goal of having 100 percent of students scoring proficient or advanced by 2014.
He was delighted to announce that Salisbury Middle School has exited the School Improvement Process. With a great deal of hard work by students and staff, the school achieved Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for two consecutive years and is no longer in School Improvement with the state.
Wicomico made gains overall in the percent proficient/advanced for Math MSA in grades 3, 5, 6 and 8, with a significant increase in Math MSA proficient scores in grade 6. The African-American subgroup made gains on the Math MSA in grades 3, 6 and 8, with a significant increase in grade 6.
The percent of students receiving Special Education services who scored at the proficient/advanced level for the Reading MSA increased in grades 4 and 6, and for the Math MSA in grades 6 and 7. The FARMS (Free and Reduced Meals) subgroup made Math MSA gains in grades 3, 5, 6 and 8, with significant increases in grades 3 and 6.
As part of the ongoing effort to ensure that schools help students improve their performance on MSA and that schools meet AYP, Central Office supervisors have been assigned responsibility for specific elementary and middle schools. The supervisors will work closely with the administrators and teachers at those schools to support progress.
“In general, we are making good progress on the MSA,” Dr. Fredericksen said. “As we continue to move toward the 2014 deadline of having all students score at the proficient or advanced level, we are going to work every day to meet that challenge.”
While most Wicomico elementary and middle schools made AYP, these schools did not:
Wicomico Middle did not meet AYP due to Reading MSA and Math MSA scores for all students and the African-American, FARMS and Special Education subgroups. Wicomico Middle, a Priority Comprehensive Needs School, is now in Year 4 of the School Improvement Process, The school must work this year to prepare an Alternative Governance Plan for submission to the Maryland State Department of Education. (Schools that reach Year 5 must implement the Alternative Governance Plan.)
Bennett Middle did not meet AYP due to scores on the Reading MSA for all and the subgroups for African-Americans, Hispanics, FARMS, Special Education and Limited English Proficiency, and due to scores on the Math MSA for the subgroups for African-Americans, FARMS, Special Education and Limited English Proficiency. Bennett Middle is in Year 1 of School Improvement as a Developing Comprehensive Needs School.
Two primary-grade schools, Charles H. Chipman Elementary and Fruitland Primary, did not meet AYP based on their former students’ performance on MSA. Former Chipman students did not achieve high enough results on the Reading MSA in the Special Education subgroup, while Fruitland Primary’s former students did not achieve the required results in the African-American and Special Education subgroups for Reading and the African-American subgroup for Math. These schools will receive local attention and are not in the state School Improvement Process.
Glen Avenue Elementary did not make AYP due to scores in the Special Education subgroup for both Math and Reading. The school will receive local attention and is not in School Improvement.
Pittsville Elementary and Middle did not make AYP due to Reading MSA scores for the African-American subgroup. The school will receive local attention and is not in School Improvement.
Prince Street Elementary did not make AYP due to Reading and Math MSA scores for all and the subgroups for African-American, FARMS and Special Education. The school will receive local attention and is not in School Improvement.
The 2010 report on AYP status of elementary and middle schools, based on MSA results, is “a big concern to us. We want all of our schools and all of our students to succeed,” Dr. Fredericksen said. “We are going to take no excuses. We are going to do whatever it takes to succeed with these students.”
AYP information for high schools and for the county school system as a whole will be available later this summer. Dr. Fredericksen said he is very pleased that, for the second straight year, Wicomico ensured that every senior who met the state’s other graduation requirements (for credit hours and service-learning) also met the Maryland requirement of passing the High School Assessments (HSAs).