DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Monday, July 26, 2010
NYT: More Married Couples Sleeping In Separate Beds
NYT: The marital bed, once the symbol of matrimony on a par with the diamond ring, is threatened with extinction. “Till Death Do Us Part” is fast becoming “Till Sleep Do Us Part.”
GO HERE to read more.
GO HERE to read more.
New Government Rules Allow Unapproved iPhone Apps
'Jailbreaking' is one of a handful of new exemptions from a federal law
WASHINGTON — Owners of the iPhone will be able to break electronic locks on their devices in order to download applications that have not been approved by Apple. The government is making that legal under new rules announced Monday.
GO HERE to read more.
WASHINGTON — Owners of the iPhone will be able to break electronic locks on their devices in order to download applications that have not been approved by Apple. The government is making that legal under new rules announced Monday.
GO HERE to read more.
Julie Brewington – Paranoid About John Cannon, “Intimidated” By Joe Albero
With all due respect to my friend Joe Albero - if I were running for the state legislature, worrying about whether Joe Albero liked me or not would be way down the list of things to worry about. Sure, SbyNEWS has lots of readers. Sure, Joe has been known to cut loose on someone every now and again. However, ANY candidate’s best shot at election is by following a simple formula – work hard, court lots of volunteers, treat everyone either nicely (or at least civilly), and be true to yourself. Pandering almost always comes back to bite you.
One thing that really doesn’t help the cause is to wrap yourself up in “victimhood” and accuse Albero (or anyone else) of intimidation. This is but one of the many “boo-boo’s” in a recent blog post by 38-A House candidate Julie Brewington.
Let’s get real Julie! If Joe Albero intimidates you, do you really think that the voters of 38-A can trust you to stand up for them against lobbyist, special interest groups, the media, and the big government, Democrat machine in Annapolis?
GO HERE TO READ MORE ...
GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY TO TOUR STORM DAMAGE, VISIT COOLING SHELTER
ANNAPOLIS, MD (July 26, 2010) – Governor Martin O’Malley today will meet with top local officials, including Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett, and emergency operation officials to assess the damage of yesterday’s storms and the resulting power outages that utility crews continue to work to restore. Governor O’Malley will also visit a cooling shelter where residents can stay to cool off until power is restored.
Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Releases
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 23 July 2010
Location: Ocean Gateway, Willards, MD
Suspect: Darius A. Peace, 31, Laurel, MD
Narrative: On 23 July 2010 at 12:01 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to the shoulder of Ocean Gateway in Willards at the request of a female who had called for help. Upon arrival, the deputies met with the victim who advised that she was riding in a car operated by Darius Peace of Laurel, MD when a verbal altercation between the pair escalated into a physical altercation. The victim stated that Darius pulled the vehicle to the shoulder of Ocean Gateway in the Willards area, came around to the passenger side where she was sitting, opened the door and proceeded to choke the victim and the hit her repeatedly in the face.
The investigating deputy observed signs of physical injury on the victim that corroborated her account and subsequently placed Darius under arrest. The deputy transported Darius to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Darius was detained in the Detention Center in lieu of $50,000.00 bond.
Charges: Assault 1st Degree
Assault 2nd Degree
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 24 July 2010
Location: 1000 block of Beaglin Park Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: 1. Nicole Johnson, 19, Salisbury, MD
2. Taeka R. Leggett, 34, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 24 July 2010 at 08:13 AM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported altercation that had occurred inside an apartment in the 1000 block of Beaglin Park Drive in Salisbury. Upon arrival, the deputies met with two women who resided together, Nicole Johnson and Taeka Leggett, who advised they became involved in a verbal altercation over a set of car keys that turned physical. Johnson accused Leggett of attacking her with a lamp while Leggett accused Johnson of coming after her with a knife.
Both of the subjects had signs of physical injury that were apparently inflicted during what appeared to be a mutual assault. Because of the nature of the complaint, the deputy placed both subjects under arrest. Upon arrest, both were transported to the Central Booking unit where they were processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner released both on Personal Recognizance.
Charges: Assault 2nd Degree
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 25 July 2010
Location: 800 block of Cornish Street, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Darrick D. Mitchell, 32, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 25 July 2010 at 3:44 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded and investigated a reported altercation inside a residence in the 800 block of Cornish Street. Upon arrival, the deputies discovered that Darrick Mitchell had been involved in an altercation with his live in girl friend that turned physical. The deputies observed signs of physical injury on the victim that appeared to have been inflicted as the result of an assault perpetrated by Mitchell.
The investigating deputy placed Mitchell under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Mitchell in the Detention Center in lieu of $5,000.00 bond.
Charges: Assault 2nd Degree
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 25 July 2010
Location: 7900 block of Jones Hastings Road, Parsonsburg, MD
Suspect: Mark A. Sawinski, 25, Parsonsburg, MD
Narrative: On 25 July 2010 at 8:04 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported altercation that had occurred in the 7900 block of Jones Hastings Road in Parsonsburg. Upon arrival, the deputies learned that Mark Sawinski and his wife were involved in a verbal altercation when Mark allegedly grabbed her by the throat. During the investigation, the deputies observed signs of injury on the victim that corroborated that account.
The investigating deputy placed Sawinski under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Sawinski in the Detention Center in lieu of $5,000.00 bond.
Charges: Assault 2nd Degree
Obama's Message To Voters: Things Could Be Worse
President Barack Obama, who rocketed to the White House promising "change you can believe in," is now telling voters they shouldn't change a thing.
GO HERE to read more.
Dustin Mills Draws A Nice Crowd For His First Fundraiser
Good people, good friends and great fellowship was had at Dustin Mills first fundraiser in Salisbury. This young man has what it takes, no question about it.
John Phoebus Packs Them In During Recent Fundraiser
It's been a long time since I've seen any other Candidate pack in a crowd like the one seen at the John Phoebus campaign kickoff.
Clearly John has heavy duty backers and supporters and some even say he's already the front runner for Delegate.
This event was held at the Black Diamond Catering Hall in Fruitland.
Report: Big-Mouthed BP CEO To Step Down
Even though Tony Hayward said in June that he had no intention of stepping down as CEO of British Petroleum, it looks like he might have spoken too soon, as several reports say Tone-Bone will be readying his golden parachute following today's board meeting.
Key Omission In memo To Destroy CIA Terror Tapes
WASHINGTON (AP) - When the CIA sent word in 2005 to destroy scores of videos showing waterboarding and other harsh interrogation tactics, there was an unusual omission in the carefully worded memo: the names of two agency lawyers.
Once a CIA lawyer has weighed in on even a routine matter, officers rarely give an order without copying the lawyer in on the decision. It's standard procedure, a way for managers to cover themselves if a decision goes bad.
But when the CIA's top clandestine officer, Jose Rodriguez, told a colleague at the agency's secret prison in Thailand to destroy interrogation videos, he left the lawyers off the note.
The destruction of the tapes wiped away the most graphic evidence of the CIA's now-shuttered network of overseas prisons, where suspected terrorists were interrogated for information using some of the most aggressive tactics in U.S. history.
Critics of that George W. Bush-era program point to the tapes' destruction and say his administration was trying to cover its tracks.
The reality is not so simple.
GO HERE to read more.
Once a CIA lawyer has weighed in on even a routine matter, officers rarely give an order without copying the lawyer in on the decision. It's standard procedure, a way for managers to cover themselves if a decision goes bad.
But when the CIA's top clandestine officer, Jose Rodriguez, told a colleague at the agency's secret prison in Thailand to destroy interrogation videos, he left the lawyers off the note.
The destruction of the tapes wiped away the most graphic evidence of the CIA's now-shuttered network of overseas prisons, where suspected terrorists were interrogated for information using some of the most aggressive tactics in U.S. history.
Critics of that George W. Bush-era program point to the tapes' destruction and say his administration was trying to cover its tracks.
The reality is not so simple.
GO HERE to read more.
Unauthorized Use / Assault
DATE & TIME: 7/26/2010 at 0028 hours
C C. CARD NUMBER: 10-54-006709
LOCATION: 1708 East Clear Lake Circle Salisbury, Wicomico County, Maryland.
BRIEF RESUME:
On the above date and time, Troopers from the Salisbury Barrack responded to the above address in attempts to locate a subject wanted for Domestic Assault. Upon arrival, the suspect was observed attempting to flee the scene in a vehicle at which time he was taken into custody. While detained, the subject became combative, failing to obey as he spit on a Trooper. The suspect had to be physically subdued.
Further investigation revealed that the vehicle he was operating did not belong to him and he attempted to steal the vehicle from the residence. His Drivers License is currently revoked.
He was then transported to WCDC to go before a court commissioner.
Arrested: 1.George Michael Trego, w/m age 34 of Salisbury, Maryland
The suspect was charged with: Unauthorized Use of a M/V, Assault, Failing to Obey a lawful Order, and Driving on a Revoked License in addition to charges stemming from the Domestic assault in the City of Salisbury.
C C. CARD NUMBER: 10-54-006709
LOCATION: 1708 East Clear Lake Circle Salisbury, Wicomico County, Maryland.
BRIEF RESUME:
On the above date and time, Troopers from the Salisbury Barrack responded to the above address in attempts to locate a subject wanted for Domestic Assault. Upon arrival, the suspect was observed attempting to flee the scene in a vehicle at which time he was taken into custody. While detained, the subject became combative, failing to obey as he spit on a Trooper. The suspect had to be physically subdued.
Further investigation revealed that the vehicle he was operating did not belong to him and he attempted to steal the vehicle from the residence. His Drivers License is currently revoked.
He was then transported to WCDC to go before a court commissioner.
Arrested: 1.George Michael Trego, w/m age 34 of Salisbury, Maryland
The suspect was charged with: Unauthorized Use of a M/V, Assault, Failing to Obey a lawful Order, and Driving on a Revoked License in addition to charges stemming from the Domestic assault in the City of Salisbury.
Delmar Fire Department
Hello Joe,
I would like to publicly acknowledge the expert medical care and compassion shown to my Mother on Tuesday, July 20. She was involved in a motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Rt. 13 and Dagsboro Road around 5 pm. The Delmar Fire Department EMS responded to the call. My Mother, my family and I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the responders. She has conveyed more than once how much she appreciated the way she was treated by them in a traumatic situation. A huge thank you Delmar EMS. You are very much appreciated.
Linda McCrorey
I would like to publicly acknowledge the expert medical care and compassion shown to my Mother on Tuesday, July 20. She was involved in a motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Rt. 13 and Dagsboro Road around 5 pm. The Delmar Fire Department EMS responded to the call. My Mother, my family and I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the responders. She has conveyed more than once how much she appreciated the way she was treated by them in a traumatic situation. A huge thank you Delmar EMS. You are very much appreciated.
Linda McCrorey
Wargotz Critical Of Mikulski's Call For End To Filibuster
Mikulski supports the filibuster before opposing it
Annapolis - Last week, Senator Mikulski called for an end to filibusters. In a speech on the Senate floor, Senator Mikulski said, "I'm on the side and definitely part of the reform movement in this institution to get rid of out-of-date procedures that belong to another century and that now only serve to slow us down so that while we do procedural due diligence, we don't actually accomplish anything at all."
While using buzzwords such as "reform" and "out-of-date procedures" sounds nice, it is important to examine what Mikulski actually wants to do. The United States Senate is considered "the greatest deliberative body in the world." The Senate is supposed to deliberate long and hard and keep a check on the reactionary House of Representatives. The filibuster provides accountability and ensures the views of the minority are heard.
"It comes as no surprise that Senator Mikulski wants no accountability in government." Wargotz said. "Senator Mikulski supported the filibuster when her party was in the minority, but now that they are in the majority she changes her tune."
The approval rating of Congress is now at 11%. The American public does not support the agenda being proposed by those in power. The only thing stopping that agenda is the filibuster.
"I am thankful every day for filibuster. The filibuster is the only thing keeping our nation from going off a cliff." Wargotz added. "The filibuster is the only thing keeping those in power from imposing a radical agenda opposed by a majority of voters."
As a member of the United States Senate, Commissioner Wargotz M.D. will always support the right of the minority to filibuster. The filibuster provides accountability in Congress.
Annapolis - Last week, Senator Mikulski called for an end to filibusters. In a speech on the Senate floor, Senator Mikulski said, "I'm on the side and definitely part of the reform movement in this institution to get rid of out-of-date procedures that belong to another century and that now only serve to slow us down so that while we do procedural due diligence, we don't actually accomplish anything at all."
While using buzzwords such as "reform" and "out-of-date procedures" sounds nice, it is important to examine what Mikulski actually wants to do. The United States Senate is considered "the greatest deliberative body in the world." The Senate is supposed to deliberate long and hard and keep a check on the reactionary House of Representatives. The filibuster provides accountability and ensures the views of the minority are heard.
"It comes as no surprise that Senator Mikulski wants no accountability in government." Wargotz said. "Senator Mikulski supported the filibuster when her party was in the minority, but now that they are in the majority she changes her tune."
The approval rating of Congress is now at 11%. The American public does not support the agenda being proposed by those in power. The only thing stopping that agenda is the filibuster.
"I am thankful every day for filibuster. The filibuster is the only thing keeping our nation from going off a cliff." Wargotz added. "The filibuster is the only thing keeping those in power from imposing a radical agenda opposed by a majority of voters."
As a member of the United States Senate, Commissioner Wargotz M.D. will always support the right of the minority to filibuster. The filibuster provides accountability in Congress.
U.S. Bank Failures In 2010 Surpass 100
Number of bank closures is well ahead of last year's pace
WASHINGTON — U.S. bank failures this year have surpassed a bleak milestone of 100 as regulators shut down banks in Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, Kansas and Minnesota.
The five bank seizures announced Friday bring to 101 the failures so far in 2010. The pace of bank closures this year is well ahead of that of last year, which saw a total 140 bank shuttered amid the recession and mounting loan defaults.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. said it took over Crescent Bank and Trust Co., based in Jasper, Ga., with about $1 billion in assets; Sterling Bank of Lantana, Fla., with $407.9 million in assets; Williamsburg First National Bank of Kingstree, S.C., $139.3 million in assets; Thunder Bank of Sylvan Grove, Kan., $32.6 million; and Community Security Bank of New Prague, Minn., $108 million.
Renasant Bank, based in Tupelo, Miss., agreed to assume the assets and deposits of Crescent Bank and Trust. Iberiabank of Lafayette, La., is acquiring the assets and deposits of Sterling Bank. First Citizens Bank and Trust Co. of Columbia, S.C., is assuming the assets and deposits of Williamsburg First National Bank, while Bennington State Bank in Salina, Kansas, is taking the assets and deposits of Thunder Bank. Roundbank of Waseca, Minn., is assuming those of Community Security Bank.
The failure of Crescent Bank and Trust is expected to cost the deposit insurance fund about $242.4 million. The resolution of Sterling Bank is estimated to cost $45.5 million; that of Williamsburg First National Bank, $8.8 million; Thunder Bank, $4.5 million; and Community Security Bank, $18.6 million.
GO HERE to read more.
WASHINGTON — U.S. bank failures this year have surpassed a bleak milestone of 100 as regulators shut down banks in Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, Kansas and Minnesota.
The five bank seizures announced Friday bring to 101 the failures so far in 2010. The pace of bank closures this year is well ahead of that of last year, which saw a total 140 bank shuttered amid the recession and mounting loan defaults.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. said it took over Crescent Bank and Trust Co., based in Jasper, Ga., with about $1 billion in assets; Sterling Bank of Lantana, Fla., with $407.9 million in assets; Williamsburg First National Bank of Kingstree, S.C., $139.3 million in assets; Thunder Bank of Sylvan Grove, Kan., $32.6 million; and Community Security Bank of New Prague, Minn., $108 million.
Renasant Bank, based in Tupelo, Miss., agreed to assume the assets and deposits of Crescent Bank and Trust. Iberiabank of Lafayette, La., is acquiring the assets and deposits of Sterling Bank. First Citizens Bank and Trust Co. of Columbia, S.C., is assuming the assets and deposits of Williamsburg First National Bank, while Bennington State Bank in Salina, Kansas, is taking the assets and deposits of Thunder Bank. Roundbank of Waseca, Minn., is assuming those of Community Security Bank.
The failure of Crescent Bank and Trust is expected to cost the deposit insurance fund about $242.4 million. The resolution of Sterling Bank is estimated to cost $45.5 million; that of Williamsburg First National Bank, $8.8 million; Thunder Bank, $4.5 million; and Community Security Bank, $18.6 million.
GO HERE to read more.
Arizona Law Comes After Years Of Mounting Anger
As the days tick down until the Arizona immigration law takes effect, the state stands as a monument to the anger over illegal immigration that is present in so many places.
The anger has been simmering for years, and erupted into a full-blown fury with the murder of a prominent rancher on the border earlier this year. The killing became a powerful rallying cry for immigration reform, but it does not tell the whole story about how Arizona got to this point.
Turn on the evening news in Arizona and some report reflecting the state's battle with illegal immigration will likely flash across the screen.
A drop house crammed with illegal border-crossers smack in the middle of a suburban neighborhood. Traffic patrols and workplace raids that net the arrest of dozens of illegal immigrants, often in heavily Hispanic communities. Politicians speaking venomously about border violence and the leech of immigration costs on the state treasury.
Along the streets, Arizonans see day laborers near Wal-Mart and Home Depot parking lots, waiting for work. In some Phoenix-area neighborhoods, Spanish is so predominant both in spoken word and signage that residents complain they feel like they're in a foreign country.
Then rancher Robert Krentz was gunned down in March while checking water lines on his property near the border. Authorities believe — but have never produced substantive proof — that an illegal immigrant, likely a scout for drug smugglers, was to blame.
Almost immediately Krentz came to symbolize what's at stake with illegal immigration. Politicians quickly connected the dots, but everyday folks also spoke with anger and fear about the rancher's death.
"You can't ignore the damage and the costs to the taxpayers and the disrespect that comes with it and those who think they have a right to break our laws," says Russell Pearce, the fiery state senator who wrote the law that is set to take effect Thursday, barring any last-minute legal action.
Between 40 percent and 50 percent of all immigrant arrests each year on the U.S.-Mexico border are made in Arizona, according to the U.S. Border Patrol.
And the annual costs? About $600 million for educating illegal immigrants at K-12 schools, more than $120 million for jailing illegal immigrants convicted of state crimes and as much as $50 million that hospitals have to eat for treating illegal border-crossers, according to figures provided by Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne, Gov. Jan Brewer's office and the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association.
At Copper Queen Community Hospital, 4 miles north of the border in Bisbee, the emergency room sees one or two illegal immigrants every shift. Dr. Daniel Roe, the emergency-room medical director, says many come in with broken bones from jumping the 15-foot-tall border fence, others suffer from walking for days in the desert with little to no water, and others have been involved in car accidents.
"It's very much part of our normal flow," he says. "But it demands resources. So it affects the operating budget."
Immigrant medical costs led the hospital to shutter a skilled nursing facility and its maternity ward several years ago, according to the hospital's top administrator.
Don Sorchych, editor and publisher of a small local newspaper called the Sonoran News, says over the past 20 years his quaint Phoenix-area town of Cave Creek has seen illegal immigrants set up "villages" made of scrap lumber and canvas.
The anger has been simmering for years, and erupted into a full-blown fury with the murder of a prominent rancher on the border earlier this year. The killing became a powerful rallying cry for immigration reform, but it does not tell the whole story about how Arizona got to this point.
Turn on the evening news in Arizona and some report reflecting the state's battle with illegal immigration will likely flash across the screen.
A drop house crammed with illegal border-crossers smack in the middle of a suburban neighborhood. Traffic patrols and workplace raids that net the arrest of dozens of illegal immigrants, often in heavily Hispanic communities. Politicians speaking venomously about border violence and the leech of immigration costs on the state treasury.
Along the streets, Arizonans see day laborers near Wal-Mart and Home Depot parking lots, waiting for work. In some Phoenix-area neighborhoods, Spanish is so predominant both in spoken word and signage that residents complain they feel like they're in a foreign country.
Then rancher Robert Krentz was gunned down in March while checking water lines on his property near the border. Authorities believe — but have never produced substantive proof — that an illegal immigrant, likely a scout for drug smugglers, was to blame.
Almost immediately Krentz came to symbolize what's at stake with illegal immigration. Politicians quickly connected the dots, but everyday folks also spoke with anger and fear about the rancher's death.
"You can't ignore the damage and the costs to the taxpayers and the disrespect that comes with it and those who think they have a right to break our laws," says Russell Pearce, the fiery state senator who wrote the law that is set to take effect Thursday, barring any last-minute legal action.
Between 40 percent and 50 percent of all immigrant arrests each year on the U.S.-Mexico border are made in Arizona, according to the U.S. Border Patrol.
And the annual costs? About $600 million for educating illegal immigrants at K-12 schools, more than $120 million for jailing illegal immigrants convicted of state crimes and as much as $50 million that hospitals have to eat for treating illegal border-crossers, according to figures provided by Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne, Gov. Jan Brewer's office and the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association.
At Copper Queen Community Hospital, 4 miles north of the border in Bisbee, the emergency room sees one or two illegal immigrants every shift. Dr. Daniel Roe, the emergency-room medical director, says many come in with broken bones from jumping the 15-foot-tall border fence, others suffer from walking for days in the desert with little to no water, and others have been involved in car accidents.
"It's very much part of our normal flow," he says. "But it demands resources. So it affects the operating budget."
Immigrant medical costs led the hospital to shutter a skilled nursing facility and its maternity ward several years ago, according to the hospital's top administrator.
Don Sorchych, editor and publisher of a small local newspaper called the Sonoran News, says over the past 20 years his quaint Phoenix-area town of Cave Creek has seen illegal immigrants set up "villages" made of scrap lumber and canvas.
Migrants Sell Their Things And Flee Arizona Ahead Of Crackdown
Nicaraguan mother Lorena Aguilar hawks a television set and a few clothes on the baking sidewalk outside her west Phoenix apartment block.
A few paces up the street, her undocumented Mexican neighbor Wendi Villasenor touts a kitchen table, some chairs and a few dishes as her family scrambles to get out of Arizona ahead of a looming crackdown on illegal immigrants.
"Everyone is selling up the little they have and leaving," said Villasenor, 31, who is headed for Pennsylvania. "We have no alternative. They have us cornered."
The two women are among scores of illegal immigrant families across Phoenix hauling the contents of their homes into the yard this weekend as they rush to sell up and get out before the state law takes effect on Thursday.
The law, the toughest imposed by any U.S. state to curb illegal immigration, seeks to drive more than 400,000 undocumented day laborers, landscapers, house cleaners, chambermaids and other workers out of Arizona, which borders Mexico.
It makes being an illegal immigrant a state crime and requires state and local police, during lawful contact, to investigate the status of anyone they reasonably suspect of being an illegal immigrant.
The U.S. government estimates 100,000 unauthorized migrants left Arizona after the state passed an employer sanctions law three years ago requiring companies to verify workers' status using a federal computer system. There are no figures for the number who have left since the new law passed in April.
Some are heading back to Mexico or to neighboring states. Others are staying put and taking their chances.
A few paces up the street, her undocumented Mexican neighbor Wendi Villasenor touts a kitchen table, some chairs and a few dishes as her family scrambles to get out of Arizona ahead of a looming crackdown on illegal immigrants.
"Everyone is selling up the little they have and leaving," said Villasenor, 31, who is headed for Pennsylvania. "We have no alternative. They have us cornered."
The two women are among scores of illegal immigrant families across Phoenix hauling the contents of their homes into the yard this weekend as they rush to sell up and get out before the state law takes effect on Thursday.
The law, the toughest imposed by any U.S. state to curb illegal immigration, seeks to drive more than 400,000 undocumented day laborers, landscapers, house cleaners, chambermaids and other workers out of Arizona, which borders Mexico.
It makes being an illegal immigrant a state crime and requires state and local police, during lawful contact, to investigate the status of anyone they reasonably suspect of being an illegal immigrant.
The U.S. government estimates 100,000 unauthorized migrants left Arizona after the state passed an employer sanctions law three years ago requiring companies to verify workers' status using a federal computer system. There are no figures for the number who have left since the new law passed in April.
Some are heading back to Mexico or to neighboring states. Others are staying put and taking their chances.
Whatever Happens, Israel Can Always Count On U.S. Evangelicals
Thousands of Christians from across the United States descended on Capitol Hill on Thursday in order to lobby Washington lawmakers on behalf of Israel.
Organizers of the event, called Christians United for Israel, showed their strength by lobbying over 85 percent U.S. Congress offices.
Attendees of this year's gathering are visibly different from those in the past: about one in five of the 5,000 participants was from a Hispanic Church.
“Last year we had about 300 Hispanics, but this year we started specific outreach to the Hispanic churches where Spanish is a language of worship”, says David Brog, the executive director of CUFI. “We have started an outreach to African-Americans. It was always our goal to broaden our base ethnically, geographically and theologically”.
Yet despite the attempt to reach out to traditionally left-leaning minority groups, Democrats are few and far between at the conference.
“We are determined to be bipartisan, we always invite Democrats but typically we get better answers from the Republicans”, says Brog.
Abbas Resists Direct Talks Despite Pressure From 'Entire World'
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said Sunday that despite intense international pressure from the "entire world," he is still not willing to start direct negotiations with Israel.
Abbas told the Voice of Palestine radio that talks would be doomed without a clear framework.
The Palestinians are wary of entering open-ended negotiations with Israel's hardline prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. They want Israel to first accept the principle of a Palestinian state within the territory captured by Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War, with some border modifications.
Netanyahu has endorsed the creation of a Palestinian state but refuses to be pinned down on the details before direct talks begin. Since May, U.S. Mideast envoy George Mitchell has been shuttling between Abbas and Netanyahu to try to narrow the gaps, so far in vain.
Abbas aides said he has received phone calls in recent days from the leaders of Germany, Britain and Italy, among others, urging him to go to direct talks.
Abbas told the Voice of Palestine radio that talks would be doomed without a clear framework.
The Palestinians are wary of entering open-ended negotiations with Israel's hardline prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. They want Israel to first accept the principle of a Palestinian state within the territory captured by Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War, with some border modifications.
Netanyahu has endorsed the creation of a Palestinian state but refuses to be pinned down on the details before direct talks begin. Since May, U.S. Mideast envoy George Mitchell has been shuttling between Abbas and Netanyahu to try to narrow the gaps, so far in vain.
Abbas aides said he has received phone calls in recent days from the leaders of Germany, Britain and Italy, among others, urging him to go to direct talks.
[Netanyau: "I'm willing to sit down with the PA as soon as possible..." So who's holding this up?--Editor]
GOP Presses For Probe Of Black Panthers Investigation
Republicans on the Senate and House Judiciary Committees are calling for an investigation into allegations that the Justice Department wrongly abandoned a case against the New Black Panther Party.
They also think there’s evidence that the department has adopted a policy to ignore voting rights violations against white victims.
Senate Judiciary Republicans sent a letter Friday to Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., chairman of the committee, requesting a hearing. That followed a letter sent by House Judiciary Republicans to President Obama asking him to direct Attorney General Eric Holder to appoint a special prosecutor to launch an investigation, according to Fox News.
A former Justice Department attorney, J. Christian Adams, now a conservative blogger, testified that supervisors in the division instructed attorneys to ignore voting rights cases that involved black defendants and white victims.
"If these alarming allegations are true, the Civil Rights Division is actively engaged in widespread politicization and possible corruption," Senate Republican Judiciary members wrote. "It is imperative that you schedule a hearing immediately so we can determine the validity of these claims and whether DOJ, as Mr. Adams testified, 'abetted wrongdoers and abandoned law-abiding citizens.'"
In their letter to the president, House Republican Judiciary members said the Justice Department's "continued refusal to give any legitimate reason for the dismissal has only increased suspicions that race and politics played a role in the decision."
They also think there’s evidence that the department has adopted a policy to ignore voting rights violations against white victims.
Senate Judiciary Republicans sent a letter Friday to Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., chairman of the committee, requesting a hearing. That followed a letter sent by House Judiciary Republicans to President Obama asking him to direct Attorney General Eric Holder to appoint a special prosecutor to launch an investigation, according to Fox News.
A former Justice Department attorney, J. Christian Adams, now a conservative blogger, testified that supervisors in the division instructed attorneys to ignore voting rights cases that involved black defendants and white victims.
"If these alarming allegations are true, the Civil Rights Division is actively engaged in widespread politicization and possible corruption," Senate Republican Judiciary members wrote. "It is imperative that you schedule a hearing immediately so we can determine the validity of these claims and whether DOJ, as Mr. Adams testified, 'abetted wrongdoers and abandoned law-abiding citizens.'"
In their letter to the president, House Republican Judiciary members said the Justice Department's "continued refusal to give any legitimate reason for the dismissal has only increased suspicions that race and politics played a role in the decision."
More about this here
Ex-CIA Chief Hayden: Military Strike On Iran Likely
Former CIA Director Michael Hayden said Sunday that military action against Iran now “seems inexorable” and in fact “may not be the worst of all possible outcomes." He also called homegrown terrorism “a devil of a problem” and the most serious threat facing American citizens.
Hayden said that the likelihood of a U.S. strike on Iran has risen in face of Tehran's defiance to halt its contentions nuclear program, saying "We engage. They continue to move forward."
"We vote for sanctions. They continue to move forward. We try to deter, to dissuade. They continue to move forward," he added.
The former CIA chief predicted Iran, in defiance of the international community, planned to "get itself to that step right below a nuclear weapon, that permanent breakout stage, so the needle isn’t quite in the red for the international community."
Hayden said that reaching even that level would be "as destabilizing to the region as actually having a weapon."
On Saturday, several key Iranian officials estimated that the United States and Israel would not dare attempt a military strike of Iran's nuclear sites, adding that they were confident that Iranian forces would easily repel such an attempt, the Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported.
Hayden also called homegrown terrorism "a devil of a problem" and the most serious threat facing American citizens. "In a democracy it’s incredibly difficult,” he said. “Look, we’ve all made our compromises with al-Qaeda and the al-Qaeda kinds of attacks.
"But how do you build a security structure that guards you against American citizens who are beginning to change in their thinking up to a point where they become a threat to the security of other Americans? That’s a devil of a problem."
Hayden said that the next step the intelligence community would take to combat homegrown terrorists would inevitably begin to infringe on the privacy of Americans, and that was still too steep of a price to pay.
"What are you or your viewers willing to pay?" he asked CNN interviewer Candy Crowley. “How much would you allow us commerce or privacy or convenience in order to get down to that level of granularity. And frankly, I think American political culture. I think you and I, as citizens, would be uncomfortable going very far in that direction. That what makes this such a devilish problem."
Hayden said that the likelihood of a U.S. strike on Iran has risen in face of Tehran's defiance to halt its contentions nuclear program, saying "We engage. They continue to move forward."
"We vote for sanctions. They continue to move forward. We try to deter, to dissuade. They continue to move forward," he added.
The former CIA chief predicted Iran, in defiance of the international community, planned to "get itself to that step right below a nuclear weapon, that permanent breakout stage, so the needle isn’t quite in the red for the international community."
Hayden said that reaching even that level would be "as destabilizing to the region as actually having a weapon."
On Saturday, several key Iranian officials estimated that the United States and Israel would not dare attempt a military strike of Iran's nuclear sites, adding that they were confident that Iranian forces would easily repel such an attempt, the Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported.
Hayden also called homegrown terrorism "a devil of a problem" and the most serious threat facing American citizens. "In a democracy it’s incredibly difficult,” he said. “Look, we’ve all made our compromises with al-Qaeda and the al-Qaeda kinds of attacks.
"But how do you build a security structure that guards you against American citizens who are beginning to change in their thinking up to a point where they become a threat to the security of other Americans? That’s a devil of a problem."
Hayden said that the next step the intelligence community would take to combat homegrown terrorists would inevitably begin to infringe on the privacy of Americans, and that was still too steep of a price to pay.
"What are you or your viewers willing to pay?" he asked CNN interviewer Candy Crowley. “How much would you allow us commerce or privacy or convenience in order to get down to that level of granularity. And frankly, I think American political culture. I think you and I, as citizens, would be uncomfortable going very far in that direction. That what makes this such a devilish problem."
Vitaminwater Isn't Healthy, Rules Federal Judge
A federal judge ruled this week that Vitaminwater will not, as its labels promise, keep you "healthy as a horse." Nor will it bring about a "healthy state of physical or mental being". Instead, Vitaminwater is really just a sugary snack food; non-carbonated fruit coke disguised as a sports drink. Because it's composed mostly of sugar and not vitamin-laden water, judge John Gleeson held that Vitaminwater's absurd marketing claims were likely to mislead consumers.
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Rangel Seeking Deal To Avoid Expulsion
Representative Charles Rangel's lawyers are trying to determine if a deal can be reached to settle ethics charges against him and avoid a trial that could hurt his Democratic Party just before the November election, party aides said on Saturday.
The aides said Rangel's lawyers are talking with the House of Representatives ethics committee, which announced charges against the 80-year-old congressman on Thursday after an earlier breakdown in negotiations.
The charges against Rangel are set to be disclosed next week in preparation for a public trial before the committee in September.
A possible settlement could include Rangel admitting to at least some charges in return for a public admonishment or censure rather than expulsion from Congress, aides said.
"But I don't know if they will reach an agreement. So far, he has been very unwilling," one aide said of the defiant Rangel, who has long insisted he has done nothing wrong.
The aide said pressure will likely mount on Rangel to avoid a trial when House Democrats return to work on Monday.
"Someone will talk to Charlie, but we don't know if he will listen," the aide said.
Said another aide: "It could get ugly. A lot of the old timers want to stick by him, but a lot of younger members are sick of this."
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The aides said Rangel's lawyers are talking with the House of Representatives ethics committee, which announced charges against the 80-year-old congressman on Thursday after an earlier breakdown in negotiations.
The charges against Rangel are set to be disclosed next week in preparation for a public trial before the committee in September.
A possible settlement could include Rangel admitting to at least some charges in return for a public admonishment or censure rather than expulsion from Congress, aides said.
"But I don't know if they will reach an agreement. So far, he has been very unwilling," one aide said of the defiant Rangel, who has long insisted he has done nothing wrong.
The aide said pressure will likely mount on Rangel to avoid a trial when House Democrats return to work on Monday.
"Someone will talk to Charlie, but we don't know if he will listen," the aide said.
Said another aide: "It could get ugly. A lot of the old timers want to stick by him, but a lot of younger members are sick of this."
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The Koerner Family
Hi there Joe!
Wanted to pass along the great news that the Koerner Family finally got to move into their new home in Pennsylvania! There were some problems with pipes at the last minute, and settlement was moved back a time or two, but they are finally moved in.
Thanks so much for posting their circumstances on your blog. Those who reached out to help them, made all the difference in their nightmare, and made a way for them to survive until their home was done.
It was a team effort, and it's now "mission accomplished." Blessings to everyone who donated to their cause, as they got down to the home stretch. It was beautiful to see a community come together on behalf of those who had a true need! Joyfully, Donna
Wanted to pass along the great news that the Koerner Family finally got to move into their new home in Pennsylvania! There were some problems with pipes at the last minute, and settlement was moved back a time or two, but they are finally moved in.
Thanks so much for posting their circumstances on your blog. Those who reached out to help them, made all the difference in their nightmare, and made a way for them to survive until their home was done.
It was a team effort, and it's now "mission accomplished." Blessings to everyone who donated to their cause, as they got down to the home stretch. It was beautiful to see a community come together on behalf of those who had a true need! Joyfully, Donna
Investigations, Teamwork Return $26 Million Misused In Medicaid
The state recovered a record $26.5 million in wrongfully spent Medicaid funds in this past fiscal year, attributed to teamwork across several state agencies and close examination of computer records and provider bills.
Only about 20% of this was due to outright fraud, officials said, and the other 80% of that is due to mistaken billing. This is a fraction of the estimated $300 million Medicaid paid out incorrectly last year, based on a national projection that 5% of Medicaid bills are overpaid.
About $16 million of the returned Medicaid funds were a direct result of investigations and prosecution by the Attorney General’s Office, said spokeswoman Raquel Guillory. Roughly half of that money was paid back in civil settlements, while the other half was court-ordered restitution.
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Five Things To Do Before Losing Your Wallet
Look, it's going to happen eventually. Whether it's pickpockets or carelessness, you're going to lose your wallet. When you do, you'll be glad you took these five steps to make recovery simple and painless.
OFFICER INVOLVED FATAL CRASH INVESTIGATED
(Towson, MD) – Maryland State Police are continuing their investigation of a fatal traffic crash in Baltimore County early this morning that involved a Baltimore Police Department officer and a motorcyclist who had allegedly previously been observed committing traffic violations in the city.
The motorcyclist is identified as Haines E. Holloway-Lilliston, 27, of the 200-block of Lord Byron Lane, Cockeysville, Md. He was operating a 2002 Suzuki GSX 600 motorcycle. He was pronounced dead at the scene of the collision.
The other driver is identified as Officer Timothy E. Beall, 31, of the Baltimore Police Department. Beall was operating a marked Baltimore Police Department 2006 Chevrolet Impala patrol car. Beall was wearing his police uniform.
Shortly before 3:00 a.m. today, Maryland State Police at the Golden Ring Barracks were called by the Baltimore City 911 Center and advised that a city officer was behind a motorcycle that was speeding north on I-83. A short time later, Officer Beall called the barracks and, in a brief conversation, said he was behind a motorcycle he believed was stolen. Soon afterwards, State Police were notified by the Baltimore County Emergency Operations Center to respond to a traffic crash on the ramp to southbound Dulaney Valley Road from the Inner Loop of I-695.
Troopers responding to the scene found the crash on the ramp involved the marked patrol vehicle driven by Officer Beall and the motorcycle driven by Holloway-Lilliston. Baltimore County Fire Department units responded to the scene and EMS personnel pronounced the motorcyclist dead at the scene. Holloway-Lilliston was wearing a helmet.
The Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to conduct a detailed crash investigation. The preliminary investigation indicates the motorcycle was in front of the police car as both proceeded south on the off-ramp. Evidence indicates the vehicles collided and the motorcyclist was ejected from the motorcycle onto the hood of the police car and then onto the roadway. The speeds of the vehicles at the time of the collision have not been determined.
Preliminary information indicates the police officer had witnessed the motorcycle involved in a possible speed contest with a car on Northern Parkway. When the officer attempted to pull the motorcycle over, the driver did not stop and continued north on I-83. Preliminary information also indicates Officer Beall was the only police officer involved in following the motorcycle. No other police units from the city or other police agencies were involved.
Holloway-Lilliston had a valid Maryland driver’s license, but he did not have a motorcycle license. The motorcycle he was operating was displaying tags listed to another motorcycle. The motorcycle was not reported stolen.
No charges have been filed at this time. A detailed accident reconstruction is being conducted by the Maryland State Police CRASH Team. The completed investigation will be forwarded to the Baltimore County State’s Attorney’s Office for review.
The investigation is continuing.
The motorcyclist is identified as Haines E. Holloway-Lilliston, 27, of the 200-block of Lord Byron Lane, Cockeysville, Md. He was operating a 2002 Suzuki GSX 600 motorcycle. He was pronounced dead at the scene of the collision.
The other driver is identified as Officer Timothy E. Beall, 31, of the Baltimore Police Department. Beall was operating a marked Baltimore Police Department 2006 Chevrolet Impala patrol car. Beall was wearing his police uniform.
Shortly before 3:00 a.m. today, Maryland State Police at the Golden Ring Barracks were called by the Baltimore City 911 Center and advised that a city officer was behind a motorcycle that was speeding north on I-83. A short time later, Officer Beall called the barracks and, in a brief conversation, said he was behind a motorcycle he believed was stolen. Soon afterwards, State Police were notified by the Baltimore County Emergency Operations Center to respond to a traffic crash on the ramp to southbound Dulaney Valley Road from the Inner Loop of I-695.
Troopers responding to the scene found the crash on the ramp involved the marked patrol vehicle driven by Officer Beall and the motorcycle driven by Holloway-Lilliston. Baltimore County Fire Department units responded to the scene and EMS personnel pronounced the motorcyclist dead at the scene. Holloway-Lilliston was wearing a helmet.
The Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to conduct a detailed crash investigation. The preliminary investigation indicates the motorcycle was in front of the police car as both proceeded south on the off-ramp. Evidence indicates the vehicles collided and the motorcyclist was ejected from the motorcycle onto the hood of the police car and then onto the roadway. The speeds of the vehicles at the time of the collision have not been determined.
Preliminary information indicates the police officer had witnessed the motorcycle involved in a possible speed contest with a car on Northern Parkway. When the officer attempted to pull the motorcycle over, the driver did not stop and continued north on I-83. Preliminary information also indicates Officer Beall was the only police officer involved in following the motorcycle. No other police units from the city or other police agencies were involved.
Holloway-Lilliston had a valid Maryland driver’s license, but he did not have a motorcycle license. The motorcycle he was operating was displaying tags listed to another motorcycle. The motorcycle was not reported stolen.
No charges have been filed at this time. A detailed accident reconstruction is being conducted by the Maryland State Police CRASH Team. The completed investigation will be forwarded to the Baltimore County State’s Attorney’s Office for review.
The investigation is continuing.
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.”
GO HERE to read more.
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.”
GO HERE to read more.
The Sad And Not Newsworthy Enough REAL NEWS!
Lindsey Lohan who? I cant believe the news coverage being given to a spoiled 20-something yr old. Here are a few 20 year-olds worth knowing about: Justin Allen 23, Brett Linley 29, Matt Weikert 29, Justus Bartett27, Dave Santos 21, Chase Stanley 21, Jesse Reed 26, Matthew King 23, Christopher Goeke 23, & Sheldon Tate 27. These 20-somethings gave their lives for you this week fighting for our freedom!
Poll Shows Mikulski Weakness Against Commissioner Dr. Eric Wargotz
Maryland citizens support Wargotz over others.
Annapolis- People across the State continue to embrace Commissioner Eric Wargotz, M.D.’s message of cutting spending, stopping Obamacare, bringing accountability to Washington, and returning to our Constitutional roots. "The momentum is astounding as we criss-cross Maryland", says Wargotz.
Recent Rasmussen polling shows weakness of entrenched incumbent Senator Mikulski versus Commissioner Eric Wargotz, M.D. Only "Two percent (2%) prefer some other candidate in the race..." Wargotz commented "The poll told us what we have been hearing as we have been traveling the state, people are tired of the one-party control in Washington. Voters want accountability and leadership." They clearly support Commissioner Wargotz over others seeking to challenge Mikulski.
The survey found that Dr. Wargotz starts the campaign with the same percentage as the Republican received against her in 2004. This signals Dr. Wargotz has a solid base on which to build.
We know Mikulski can be beat this year, but it will require a sacrifice from each of us to move Dr. Wargotz into the people's U.S. Senate seat in Maryland. We will continue to show voters how Mikulski has failed us with increased spending, lack of accountability, and supporting a health care bill which will not result in lower costs and only place more taxes on businesses and families.
Rasmussen viewed Dr. Wargotz as the most competitive candidate against Mikulski. Some may say Mikulski has a strong lead, but many forget that in the few months before his election, Scott Brown trailed his Democratic opponent by 19%. What we learned from that race is that the public wants a new direction in Washington. They are tired of the one-party rule. They are tired of the out-of-control government spending. They are tired of a government that infringes on more of our rights each and every day.
"Voters in Maryland are tired of one-party rule in Washington." said Wargotz. "This poll shows Senator Mikulski is vulnerable if the right candidate runs a voter focused campaign." Commissioner Dr. Wargotz is the only candidate in the Maryland U.S. Senate race who has a proven record of cutting taxes (twice), cutting government, and increasing government transparency.
One particular area of strength in the Rasmussen poll for Senator Mikulski was with women which is an area Dr. Wargotz can make serious gains. Dr. Wargotz has specialized in providing medical care to women throughout his career and is a recognized expert in diseases of the Breast and Gynecological tract. He was recently honored as a recipient for the fourth consecutive year being rated as one of "Americas Top Physicians” by the Consumer's Research Council, Washington D.C.
Annapolis- People across the State continue to embrace Commissioner Eric Wargotz, M.D.’s message of cutting spending, stopping Obamacare, bringing accountability to Washington, and returning to our Constitutional roots. "The momentum is astounding as we criss-cross Maryland", says Wargotz.
Recent Rasmussen polling shows weakness of entrenched incumbent Senator Mikulski versus Commissioner Eric Wargotz, M.D. Only "Two percent (2%) prefer some other candidate in the race..." Wargotz commented "The poll told us what we have been hearing as we have been traveling the state, people are tired of the one-party control in Washington. Voters want accountability and leadership." They clearly support Commissioner Wargotz over others seeking to challenge Mikulski.
The survey found that Dr. Wargotz starts the campaign with the same percentage as the Republican received against her in 2004. This signals Dr. Wargotz has a solid base on which to build.
We know Mikulski can be beat this year, but it will require a sacrifice from each of us to move Dr. Wargotz into the people's U.S. Senate seat in Maryland. We will continue to show voters how Mikulski has failed us with increased spending, lack of accountability, and supporting a health care bill which will not result in lower costs and only place more taxes on businesses and families.
Rasmussen viewed Dr. Wargotz as the most competitive candidate against Mikulski. Some may say Mikulski has a strong lead, but many forget that in the few months before his election, Scott Brown trailed his Democratic opponent by 19%. What we learned from that race is that the public wants a new direction in Washington. They are tired of the one-party rule. They are tired of the out-of-control government spending. They are tired of a government that infringes on more of our rights each and every day.
"Voters in Maryland are tired of one-party rule in Washington." said Wargotz. "This poll shows Senator Mikulski is vulnerable if the right candidate runs a voter focused campaign." Commissioner Dr. Wargotz is the only candidate in the Maryland U.S. Senate race who has a proven record of cutting taxes (twice), cutting government, and increasing government transparency.
One particular area of strength in the Rasmussen poll for Senator Mikulski was with women which is an area Dr. Wargotz can make serious gains. Dr. Wargotz has specialized in providing medical care to women throughout his career and is a recognized expert in diseases of the Breast and Gynecological tract. He was recently honored as a recipient for the fourth consecutive year being rated as one of "Americas Top Physicians” by the Consumer's Research Council, Washington D.C.
SHOREBIRDS LEVEL SERIES WITH 3-1 WIN OVER LAKEWOOD
Brian Conley Hits Third Homer in Four Games
SALISBURY, Md. – First baseman Mike Flacco went 3-for-3 with a walk and Kevin Landry tossed three innings of four-hit relief to pace the Delmarva Shorebirds to a 3-1 win over the Lakewood BlueClaws at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium Sunday.
Flacco, the brother of Baltimore Ravens’ quarterback Joe Flacco, who was promoted from Aberdeen before the game, made his 2010 debut for Delmarva a memorable one. Flacco tallied a double and an RBI to help the Shorebirds (47-52) win the second game of the series against the BlueClaws (60-38).
Landry (2-0) allowed one run and struck out five to spell a tired bullpen which used all but one pitcher in Saturday’s 8-7 18-inning loss.
Brian Parker threw a perfect ninth with a strikeout to earn his second save of the season.
After a one hour, 28-minute rain delay to begin the bottom of the second, Brian Conley put the Shorebirds on the board with a solo home run to right in the third. The blast was the right fielder’s sixth of the season.
Conley lengthened the Delmarva lead in the bottom of the fifth. He started the inning with a walk, stole second and scored on a single to left by Flacco.
Lakewood cut into the lead in the top of the sixth off of reliever Nick Haughian. Left fielder Michael Dabbs muscled a pitch into center to score Jonathan Villar from third with two outs.
Villar gave the run back in the bottom of the inning. Gary Helmick struck out to open the frame, but reached first on a wild pitch from Mike McGuire. Helmick then stole second and came around when Villar committed his 40th error of the season, a groundball to shortstop that he allowed to get through his legs.
Mike McGuire (0-1) took the loss for Lakewood, relieving starter Josh Zied, who pitched one inning before the delay.
McGuire allowed all three runs – two earned – on seven hits in five innings.
The Shorebirds and BlueClaws play games 3 and 4 of the series Monday with a doubleheader beginning at 6:05 p.m. Delmarva will send right-hander Brent Allar (2-1, 4.82) to the mound to oppose Lakewood righty Brody Colvin (5-6, 3.50).
SALISBURY, Md. – First baseman Mike Flacco went 3-for-3 with a walk and Kevin Landry tossed three innings of four-hit relief to pace the Delmarva Shorebirds to a 3-1 win over the Lakewood BlueClaws at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium Sunday.
Flacco, the brother of Baltimore Ravens’ quarterback Joe Flacco, who was promoted from Aberdeen before the game, made his 2010 debut for Delmarva a memorable one. Flacco tallied a double and an RBI to help the Shorebirds (47-52) win the second game of the series against the BlueClaws (60-38).
Landry (2-0) allowed one run and struck out five to spell a tired bullpen which used all but one pitcher in Saturday’s 8-7 18-inning loss.
Brian Parker threw a perfect ninth with a strikeout to earn his second save of the season.
After a one hour, 28-minute rain delay to begin the bottom of the second, Brian Conley put the Shorebirds on the board with a solo home run to right in the third. The blast was the right fielder’s sixth of the season.
Conley lengthened the Delmarva lead in the bottom of the fifth. He started the inning with a walk, stole second and scored on a single to left by Flacco.
Lakewood cut into the lead in the top of the sixth off of reliever Nick Haughian. Left fielder Michael Dabbs muscled a pitch into center to score Jonathan Villar from third with two outs.
Villar gave the run back in the bottom of the inning. Gary Helmick struck out to open the frame, but reached first on a wild pitch from Mike McGuire. Helmick then stole second and came around when Villar committed his 40th error of the season, a groundball to shortstop that he allowed to get through his legs.
Mike McGuire (0-1) took the loss for Lakewood, relieving starter Josh Zied, who pitched one inning before the delay.
McGuire allowed all three runs – two earned – on seven hits in five innings.
The Shorebirds and BlueClaws play games 3 and 4 of the series Monday with a doubleheader beginning at 6:05 p.m. Delmarva will send right-hander Brent Allar (2-1, 4.82) to the mound to oppose Lakewood righty Brody Colvin (5-6, 3.50).
SHOREBIRDS GAME NOTES: 7/25 vs. Lakewood
PREVIEW: Following a marathon game that ended at 12:10 on Sunday morning, the Shorebirds aim to level the series at one game apiece. Anthony Hewitt scored in the top of the 18th inning on a bases loaded walk issued to Jonathan Villar. The game totaled 125 at-bats and five hours and five minutes. Twelve pitchers toed the rubber between the two teams. Lakewood managed only three hits in the eight extra-innings but still pulled out the win.
BREAKDOWN OF OPPONENTS: The Shorebirds have 42 games remaining in 2010. Here is a breakdown of their remaining opponents. The ‘Birds will play: 9 games against Lakewood (18-10), four games vs. Hickory (16-13), nine games against Lexington (15-14), eight games against Hagerstown (10-19), four games against Augusta (16-13), four vs. Kannapolis (12-17) and four against West Virginia (12-17).
LEVI PITCHES: For the second time in his career, Levi Carolus was called on to pitch in the 17th inning as the Shorebirds ran out of options. He allowed a hit and a run in two full innings. Carolus last toed the rubber in 2006 for the Venezuelan Summer League Orioles. In two innings, he surrendered 12 hits and eight earned runs.
FOUR-HIT GAME: In eight at-bats last night, Garabez Rosa registered his first four-hit game in 2010. It was just the second four-hit game of his career.
LAST PLAYOFF APPEARANCE: The Shorebirds have not qualified for the SAL playoffs in four years. In 2005, the Shorebirds last made the playoffs by winning the second half (42-27). The Shorebirds lost to Hagerstown two games to one in the semi-finals.
PLAYER TO WATCH: OMAR CASAMAYOR
Omar Casamayor had one of big hits in the ninth inning last night to help the ‘Birds plate five runs. He went 2-for-7 with two runs and two RBIs. Casamayor has at least one hit in three straight games. The Palmira, Venezuela native was added to the ‘Birds roster on July 20 after Mike Mooney went down with a left thumb injury. The 23-year old batted .309 in 24 games for the Ironbirds. He notched five doubles and 10 RBIs.
BREAKDOWN OF OPPONENTS: The Shorebirds have 42 games remaining in 2010. Here is a breakdown of their remaining opponents. The ‘Birds will play: 9 games against Lakewood (18-10), four games vs. Hickory (16-13), nine games against Lexington (15-14), eight games against Hagerstown (10-19), four games against Augusta (16-13), four vs. Kannapolis (12-17) and four against West Virginia (12-17).
LEVI PITCHES: For the second time in his career, Levi Carolus was called on to pitch in the 17th inning as the Shorebirds ran out of options. He allowed a hit and a run in two full innings. Carolus last toed the rubber in 2006 for the Venezuelan Summer League Orioles. In two innings, he surrendered 12 hits and eight earned runs.
FOUR-HIT GAME: In eight at-bats last night, Garabez Rosa registered his first four-hit game in 2010. It was just the second four-hit game of his career.
LAST PLAYOFF APPEARANCE: The Shorebirds have not qualified for the SAL playoffs in four years. In 2005, the Shorebirds last made the playoffs by winning the second half (42-27). The Shorebirds lost to Hagerstown two games to one in the semi-finals.
PLAYER TO WATCH: OMAR CASAMAYOR
Omar Casamayor had one of big hits in the ninth inning last night to help the ‘Birds plate five runs. He went 2-for-7 with two runs and two RBIs. Casamayor has at least one hit in three straight games. The Palmira, Venezuela native was added to the ‘Birds roster on July 20 after Mike Mooney went down with a left thumb injury. The 23-year old batted .309 in 24 games for the Ironbirds. He notched five doubles and 10 RBIs.