HOW MANY STATE EMPLOYEES' JOBS WOULD BOB EHRLICH "RESTRUCTURE"?

Baltimore, MD (Sept. 2, 2010) - Today, in response to Bob Ehrlich's blatant attempt to pander to state employees by promising to end furloughs, O'Malley-Brown Campaign Manager Tom Russell issued the following statement:

"Bob Ehrlich's insincere overtures to state employees represent election-year pandering at its worst. Ehrlich promises state workers he'll end furloughs, but he won't tell them about his plans to layoff state employees. It's a familiar pattern with Ehrlich--promise the moon but deliver nothing.

"In contrast, Governor O'Malley has been honest about the tough decisions we've made together to cut spending and at the same time keep our workers on the job. Like every family in our state that has had to tighten its belt, Governor O'Malley has asked our state employees to do more with less over these last four years and they have delivered results for the people of our state."

Speaking on his radio show earlier this year, Ehrlich said "I just think it [furloughing employees] is a bad management practice...I'd much rather restructure...If you're going to restructure a number of jobs, you do it. But furloughs is really a slow bleed." [Kendel and Bob Ehrlich Show, WBAL-AM, 1/30/10]

Click here to listen to the audio of Ehrlich's comments.

Ehrlich was expected to address the furlough issue at an endorsement event with the Maryland Classified Employees Association. The Executive Director of MCEA is a former Republican Delegate and current Republican candidate for that same office.

Did NIST Edit WTC 7 Footage To Hide Evidence Of Implosion?

After filing a lawsuit that prompted NIST to release more than 3 terabytes of photographs and videos from their investigation into the collapse of the twin towers and WTC 7 on 9/11, the International Center for 9/11 Studies has obtained evidence that suggests NIST edited several videos of the collapse of Building 7 in order to hide evidence of a controlled implosion.

The Center filed a FOIA Request with NIST on January 26, 2009, seeking production of “all of the photographs and videos collected, reviewed, cited or in any other way used by NIST during its investigation of the World Trade Center building collapses.” Following several unsuccessful attempts to get NIST to even acknowledge receipt of the Request, the Center was forced to file a lawsuit on May 28, 2009. Shortly after the lawsuit was filed, the Request was assigned a reference number, and NIST began periodically releasing batches of responsive records.

The Center has now begun posting some of those images and videos online, the first batch of which is from an external hard disk drive “NIST WTC Investigation Cumulus Video Clips.”
In one of the clips, the video of which has been in the public domain for years, a loud, low-frequency boom can be heard just before the east penthouse of WTC 7 falls. Once the support columns that held up the penthouse are taken out, the rest of the building falls almost within its own footprint.

GO HERE to read more and see videos.

All-You-Can-Eat Crab Special At The Red Roost

Guard Dog Security Systems

Click on image to enlarge.

Hurricane Preparedness Actions In Place For City Of Salisbury

Mayor James Ireton Jr. announced Thursday that the City of Salisbury began hurricane preparedness operations as Earl approaches the Mid-Atlantic on Monday of this week. City officials have been attending Wicomico County Emergency Operations Center meetings this week.

The Director of Public Works, Teresa Gardner has reported the following preparations from her department: Catch basins are being checked for any debris issues; flushing of several key storm drains is complete; preventative maintenance on generators, chain saws and other storm related equipment is complete; review of staffing and job responsibilities is complete; review of standard operating procedures for storm water events at the wastewater and water plants and offsite facilities is complete; preparing of sand bags, fueling all equipment, checking and adjusting dams as required for event is complete; and staff has determined hot spots of tidal flooding in the past that need constant monitoring. A skeleton crew for Public Works will report to work at 4:00 AM as Earl makes landfall. Emergency contact information for Salisbury Public Works is 410-548-3177.

Acting Deputy Fire Chief Bragg with the Salisbury Fire Department is adhering to the following schedule: September 1, Wednesday- Checked saws; fueled extra gas cans on the equipment made sure hand tools are ready to go on all equipment;  tested and fueled in-house generators to be sure they are working properly. September 2, Thursday-Staffing an extra Engine with volunteers at all three stations in the city beginning at 1900 hours. Thursday morning begin topping off the fuel tanks in all apparatus at all three stations. September 3, Friday-Staffing an Engine at Station One with volunteers

Feds Go After Sheriff Joe

The U.S. Justice Department sued Sheriff Joe Arpaio on Thursday, saying the Arizona lawman refused for more than a year to turn over records in an investigation into allegations his department discriminates against Hispanics.

The lawsuit calls Arpaio and his office's defiance "unprecedented," and said the federal government has been trying since March 2009 to get officials to comply with its probe of alleged discrimination, unconstitutional searches and seizures, and having English-only policies in his jails that discriminate against people with limited English skills.

Arpaio had been given until Aug. 17 to hand over documents it first asked for 15 months ago.

Arpaio's attorney, Robert Driscoll, declined immediate comment on the lawsuit, saying he had just received it and hadn't yet conferred with his client.

Arpaio's office had said it has fully cooperated in the jail inquiry but won't hand over additional documents into the examination of the alleged unconstitutional searches because federal authorities haven't said exactly what they were investigating.

It's the latest action against Arizona by the federal government, which earlier sued the state to stop its strict new immigration law that requires police officers to question people about their immigration status.

"The actions of the sheriff's office are unprecedented," said Thomas Perez, assistant attorney general for the department's civil rights division. "It is unfortunate that the department was forced to resort to litigation to gain access to public documents and facilities."

More here

[I'd say the actions of the US Justice Department are equally 'unprecedented'-- Editor]

The $64,000.00 Question Continued

As promised last night, the following is again, the $64,000.00 question and then the answer from States Attorney Davis Ruark.

Mr. Ruark – We all know that you encountered some personal problems during this last term. Why should the voters of Wicomico County be willing to overlook those and re-elect you to a seventh term?

Davis started his response with, “I was wrong”.

Ruark admitted what he’d done that night. He admitted it to his Mother. He admitted it to his Wife and Family. The very next day, a Saturday, he admitted it privately to his Staff and then he admitted it the all of the news media. He asked for forgiveness from God, from his family, from his Staff and from the community. He is grateful for all of the support that He's received. As a result of what occurred, he believes that he is a better State’s Attorney, a better man, a better husband and a better father.

I want to start of by thanking the Wicomico Neighborhood Congress for inviting me to last night's event. It was an honor being invited and I sincerely hope this sends a clear message out to those nay sayers, Salisbury News is the new generation of news and information.

To the few people who mocked me last night after I asked that question, hopefully today you can see why it needed to be asked. WE THE PEOPLE have every right in an open format to get the answer to what is by far the biggest thing on every one's mind referencing this race.

After all, scroll down and look at the rest of the questions we were going to ask. It's clear to me that the ONLY reason Matt and Seth are running is because of a personal flaw in Davis Ruark. NOT because there's anything wrong with the States Attorney's Office. Davis made a horrible mistake. Davis owned that mistake, apologized, asked for forgiveness and over the past 2 years has proven to change his personal life and better the States Attorney's Office through this experience.

Now, will there be people out there who may never forgive him for his actions, perhaps. However, I want ALL of you to think really hard about what I'm about to say. The ONLY reason there should be ANY change in that Office would be based on performance or the lack thereof. Mr. Ruark has been the Wicomico States Attorney for 24 years now. He has not been challenged because his performance has been impeccable. Well, maybe I've gone too far in that statement. However, now that he's made a mistake, others are coming out of the wood shed to challenge him because they feel he's vulnerable. That may be true and Davis Ruark could possibly lose this election because of such a mistake. However, he'd never lose it because he failed to do his job or run his Office properly.

Now, in my honest opinion, Seth did a horrible job last night. You know what Folks. Seth reminds me of that kid always complaining he didn't get his way. Those perky lips, like a pout, shoulda, coulda, woulda. Stomping his feet as Daddy gets out of his Rolls Royce saying, now Seth, you shouldn't have done that, GO TO YOUR ROOM! Pucker, pucker, stomp, stomp! Not my idea of the next States Attorney. My guess (if Seth were to win) is that 75% of the Staff in the States Attorneys Office would search for new jobs immediately. That's a scary thought Folks, especially with crime being so high in Wicomico County. Better keep that in mind when you go to the polls.

Matt did a fabulous job last night. A bit green but seriously coming on strong. Matt doesn't have a primary so we'll save our statements about him for later on. I will say his performance as a young man was quite convincing. In all honesty, however, it's the lack of experience that concerns me as well as others. Look, if I can ask Davis the $64,000.00 question, clearly we need to address the hardest question Matt will face and that's the lack of experience.

There's no question I personally like Matt. I truly do not know Seth as last night was only the second time I've met him face to face. I will add, last night Seth walked up to me and said, "Hi Joe, I'm Seth Mitchell." I replied, I know Seth, we've met before. He looked confused and I said, remember, the NAACP Forum? "Oh yeah, that's right, we spoke about Matt there." That was only a few weeks ago and I find it hard to believe that once you've met Joe Albero face to face that you'd FORGET you ever did so. I hope that doesn't come off wrong Folks but come on now, seriously.

We'll have more on last night later today.

Health Care Credit Cards May Add To Your Pain

These days, you may leave your dentist's office with more than a toothbrush and dental floss in your bag. Thousands of dentists are offering patients health-care credit cards to cover the work that needs to be done, with seemingly hard-to-resist repayment terms. If you need care and don't have insurance to cover it or cash in hand, it's tempting to sign up.

MORE HERE.

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY ON SUCCESSFUL EFFORTS OF HOSTAGE SITUATION

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY ON SUCCESSFUL EFFORTS OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY POLICE TO DIFFUSE HOSTAGE SITUATION

ANNAPOLIS, MD (September 2, 2010) – Governor Martin O’Malley today issued the following statement praising the work and efforts of the Montgomery County Police and other law enforcement officers in their efforts to diffuse the hostage situation at Discovery Channel headquarters in Silver Spring yesterday:

“I want to commend Montgomery County Police Chief J. Thomas Manger and the members of the Montgomery County Police for their valiant efforts to diffuse the hostage situation at Discovery Channel headquarters in Silver Spring yesterday. Chief Manger and his team’s professionalism kept civilians safe and unharmed. Law enforcement officers put their lives at risk everyday and the bravery of these men and women should not be overlooked.”

“I also want to commend Discovery CEO David Zaslov and the employees of Discovery for executing their crisis plan flawlessly, and for remaining calm during this crisis.”

Salisbury Police Department Press Releases

On August 31, 2010 at approximately 2:54 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the First Shore Federal Bank on Mt. Herman Road for the report of the robbery of an ATM customer.

Upon arrival the officers met with the male victim of the robbery who advised the officers that he was utilizing the banks ATM machine when he was approached from behind by an unknown black male suspect. The victim advised that the suspect had ridden to the ATM on a mountain type bicycle. The suspect approached the victim, who was involved in the ATM transaction, and demanded the victim’s U.S. currency. As the victim turned away from the ATM machine, the suspect grabbed the currency and then fled from the area on the bicycle. The victim was not injured.

Detectives of the Salisbury Police received information concerning a possible suspect and responded to a residence on Bennett Road. The detectives located the suspect and were able to recover evidence that led to the arrest of the suspect for the robbery. Information leading to the identification of the suspect was based upon a response from the public following the release of the ATM video.

ARRESTED: Paul Gomez, 37 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Robbery
Theft (under $ 1000)
Second degree assault
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000034639

On September 1, 2010 at approximately 9:10 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police arrested the below listed suspect on an arrest warrant received by Salisbury Detectives following the investigation of an internal theft at a local business. The investigation revealed that the suspect, an employee of the business, was keeping bank deposits that were the property of the business.
ARRESTED: Craig Allen Smith, 27 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (over $ 1000)
Theft (under $ 1000) – 7 counts
Theft scheme (under $ 10,000)
Theft scheme (under $1000)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000034600

On September 1, 2010 at approximately 2:18 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Tuesday Morning Store at the Twilley Center for the report of an internal theft. Upon arrival the officers met with store management who advised that the below listed suspect, an employee of the store, was found to be making fraudulent returns and keeping the proceeds.

ARRESTED: Tryna Lynn Parsons, 44 years of age
Millsboro, Delaware
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 1000)
Theft scheme (under $ 1000)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000034745

Salisbury News Prepared Questions For Last Night

We needed to be prepared last night, considering there were 4 panelists. In case someone else asked questions ahead of me, I needed to be prepared but we'd like you to see where we were going. The first two are the actual questions I asked at the Forum last night.

Mr. Ruark – We all know that you encountered some personal problems during this last term. Why should the voters of Wicomico County be willing to overlook those and re-elect you to a seventh term?

Citizens want accountability from their local officials. We hear about officials violating their charters. We read confidential personnel records leaked to the newspaper by some paid or elected official. We hear about officials signing contracts committing taxpayer assets to multimillion dollar projects with the state without legislative votes to do so. Now we hear about tax-funded agencies cutting off services who haven't shared financials with paid or elected officials. The landfill scandal got exposed, but punishments weren't as much as the public expected or deserved.

Mr. Davis, what are you doing to make sure our public officials, hired or elected, do their jobs by the rules and face consequences if they don't?

Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Maccierello, what will you do as our new state's attorney to make sure our public officials, hired or elected, do their jobs by the rules and face consequences if they don't?

Matt Maciarello

Mr. Maciarello – Davis Ruark, the incumbent State’s Attorney, has held this office for over 24 years. What deficiencies do you believe exist in the State’s Attorney’s office that would motivate you to run for this office? If you don’t believe there are problems in the State’s Attorney’s office, why are you running this year?

Mr. Maciarello – You don’t face a primary opponent. You will be facing either Mr. Mitchell or Mr. Ruark in the general election. Why should the voters of Wicomico County vote for you over EITHER of these two gentlemen?

Mr. Maciarello - The trial of Thomas Leggs is scheduled for next spring. This case is the most notorious crime in Wicomico County in memory and the vast majority of citizens appear to expect a conviction and the death penalty. Why should the voters of Wicomico County trust you to successfully prosecute this case?

Mr. Maciarello – You were recruited to run for this office AFTER the filing deadline. Upon announcing your candidacy, you almost immediately dropped out of the race and then moved back in a few days later. Given the grave responsibilities and immense discretion given to a Maryland State’s Attorney, how should voters view your behavior entering this race?

Mr. Maciarello – Under Mr. Ruark, a policy exists that ALL homicides (absent extenuating circumstances such as lack of evidence or the disappearance of witnesses) will be tried; in other words, NO PLEA BARGAINS. Do you support this policy and why?

Mr. Maciarello – Why should voters support you over a career prosecutor, given your total lack of experience as a prosecutor?

Mr. Maciarello – In addition to prosecuting criminals, the State’s Attorney has numerous supervisory and managerial duties. Can you outline any qualifications or experience that would prepare you for that role, if you are elected?

Mr. Maciarello – As we all know, the Wicomico County and Maryland state governments are under severe fiscal constraints. How do you plan on “doing more with less” if you are elected?

Mr. Maciarello – What is general philosophy regarding the prosecution of criminals? How do you believe that you will implement that philosophy if you are elected?

Seth Mitchell

Mr. Mitchell – Davis Ruark, the incumbent State’s Attorney, has held this office for over 24 years. What deficiencies do you believe exist in the State’s Attorney’s office that would motivate you to run for this office? If you don’t believe there are problems in the State’s Attorney’s office, why are you running this year?

Mr. Mitchell – You are facing Mr. Ruark in the Democratic primary.. If successful, you will be facing Mr. Maciarello in the general election. Why should the voters of Wicomico County vote for you over EITHER of these two gentlemen?

Mr. Mitchell - The trial of Thomas Leggs is scheduled for next spring. This case is the most notorious crime in Wicomico County in memory and the vast majority of citizens appear to expect a conviction and the death penalty. Why should the voters of Wicomico County trust you to successfully prosecute this case?

Mr. Mitchell – I’ve noted from your campaign signs that the underlying theme for your campaign appears to be a reference to a personal problem Mr. Ruark encountered during this term. Fair enough, but can you cite any particular problems in Mr. Ruark’s record as State’s Attorney that should motivate voters to retire him a few months before one of the most infamous crimes in memory comes to trial?

Mr. Mitchell – Under Mr. Ruark, a policy exists that ALL homicides (absent extenuating circumstances such as lack of evidence or the disappearance of witnesses) will be tried; in other words, NO PLEA BARGAINS. Do you support this policy and why?

Mr. Mitchell – You’ve spent most of your career as a member of the criminal defense bar. Why should voters support your candidacy over that of a career prosecutor?

Mr. Mitchell – In addition to prosecuting criminals, the State’s Attorney has numerous supervisory and managerial duties. Can you outline any qualifications or experience that would prepare you for that role, if you are elected?

Mr. Mitchell – As we all know, the Wicomico County and Maryland state governments are under severe fiscal constraints. How do you plan on “doing more with less” if you are elected?

Mr. Mitchell – What is general philosophy regarding the prosecution of criminals? How do you believe that you will implement that philosophy if you are elected?

Davis Ruark

Mr. Ruark – You’ve held this office for over 24 years. Why are you choosing to seek re-election?

Mr. Ruark – You are facing Mr. Mitchell in the Democratic primary.. If successful, you will be facing Mr. Maciarello in the general election. Why should the voters of Wicomico County vote for you over EITHER of these two gentlemen?

Mr. Ruark - The trial of Thomas Leggs is scheduled for next spring. This case is the most notorious crime in Wicomico County in memory and the vast majority of citizens appear to expect a conviction and the death penalty. Why should the voters of Wicomico County trust you to successfully prosecute this case?

Mr. Ruark – We all know that you encountered some personal problems during this last term. Why should the voters of Wicomico County be willing to overlook those and re-elect you to a seventh term?

Mr. Ruark – During your tenure as State’s Attorney you have made several changes in the ways your office approaches the prosecution of offenders. Do you have any plans to make further changes if the voters elect you to another term?

Mr. Ruark – As we all know, the Wicomico County and Maryland state governments are under severe fiscal constraints. How do you plan on “doing more with less” if you are re-elected?

Mr. Ruark – What is your general philosophy regarding the prosecution of crime and how does it affect the performance of your duties as State’s Attorney?

Finally:

Mr. Ruark, what are you doing as part of the Safe Streets Coalition in Salisbury that is making a difference in crime for our citizens?

Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Maccierello, what will you do as part of the Safe Streets Coalition in Salisbury that will make a difference in crime for our citizens?

More Posts on this topic, (including answers) in just a little bit.

Mayor Ireton Clowns Around At Circus

You go, big fella!

Today's Survey Question

Do You Think Ocean City Officials

Should Ban Smoking On The Beach and Boardwalk?

Early Voting Starts Tomorrow

For the first time in Maryland's history, we will have the ability to cast our votes before Election Day. The state's new early voting system is in place and voters are ready to cast their ballots. I want to use this new opportunity to show the Democrat power establishment in Annapolis and Washington, D.C. how excited we are to cast our vote for real change in this country.

I am asking all Maryland Republicans to take the time now to find their early voting location so you can cast your vote September 3rd through September 9th (With the exception of Sunday September 5th when voting locations will be closed).

I am confident that our message is resonating loud and clear with Marylanders yearning for common sense conservative leadership in Washington; the American people are tired of the Pelosi-Obama job-killing agenda. Your hard work and dedication has gotten us where we are today, but we need to finish strong. Let's carry the tremendous momentum we've generated straight to the polls.

If you are still undecided, please visit my website and learn more about me and my position on the issues that matter most to you and your family.

I am confident that if you do the research, you will see that my campaign for Congress is the best fit for our district.

Thank you for your time and your support. We will have a chance to truly send a message in November - but I need your vote today to ensure that I can continue my fight to represent you and your family in the U.S House of Representatives.

Andy Harris, M.D.

P.S. After you have voted, please go to one of the Victory phone bank locations to do your part to ensure that Marylanders everywhere know about our message. Thank you.

America's Best Dog-Friendly Hotels

Some establishments offer dog beds, yoga classes — even canine surfing lessons

Some lucky dogs not only go on vacation, they also get in-room massages, their own seasonal room service menu, and a welcome gift that they can chew on.

A record 65 percent of American families now own a pet, and many are taking them on vacation. Last year, more than 15 million Americans traveled with their pets, and 8.5 million stayed more than three times in a pet-friendly hotel, according to Pet Friendly, Inc. Hotels are responding to these travelers with dog-friendly perks that provide dogs and their owners with winsome extras, like yoga classes and practical necessities, such as clean-up bags.

Slideshow: America's best dog-friendly hotels

GO HERE to read more.

U.S. Attorney: State Sen. Ulysses Currie Indicted

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - State Sen. Ulysses Currie, chairman of a legislative committee that steers $32 billion in state spending, is accused of illegally using his influence to benefit a grocery store chain, the U.S. attorney's office announced Wednesday.

Currie, a 73-year-old Prince George's County Democrat was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of bribery, conspiracy, mail fraud and extortion.

The U.S. attorney's office also said former Shoppers Food Warehouse executives _ including former President William J. White and former vice president for real estate development R. Kevin Small _ have been indicted in connection with a scheme from 2002 to 2008 to pay Currie.
"Government officials cross a bright line when they accept payments in return for using the authority of their office, whether they take cash in envelopes or checks labeled as consulting payments," Maryland U.S. Attorney Rod Rosenstein said.

A separate criminal information was filed against Shoppers Food Warehouse Corp., which has agreed to enter into a deferred prosecution agreement to pay a $2.5 million penalty.

Currie had been under federal investigation for more than two years for working as a consultant for Shoppers Food Warehouse without disclosing the work in financial disclosure forms. Federal prosecutors allege the payments grew from $3,000 a month in 2003 to $7,600 a month in 2007. The payments were never reported on five annual ethics forms.

GO HERE to read more.

Cameras Will Nab Drivers Who Pass School Buses

WASHINGTON - By now, most drivers in the D.C. region are very familiar with speed and red light cameras. But what about school bus cameras?

The cameras aren't the kind that keep an eye on what's going on inside the bus. These electronic monitors are installed outside of school buses, near the flashing stop sign that pops out when kids are getting on and off the bus.

If drivers pass a bus when it has that stop sign extended, they may get a picture of their license plate snapped.

A number of school buses in Frederick County are now outfitted with the cameras, and the Montgomery County School system tells WTOP it is moving forward with its own school bus camera program.

Maryland's transportation chief sees the cameras as another tool to keep kids safe.

GO HERE to read more.

Earl To Be Off Delmarva Coast Friday Morning

WASHINGTON - Hurricane Earl may be packing a punch in the Atlantic Ocean, but how will the Category 4 storm affect the D.C. area and the Delmarva beaches this Labor Day weekend?

"For most of our listening area, everybody west of Chesapeake Bay, the weather is going to be fine," ABC 7 Chief Meteorologist Doug Hill says.

Temperatures will be near 90 degrees on Friday and in the low 80s throughout the Labor Day weekend. Get the latest forecasts throughout the weekend at the WTOP Weather Center.

The biggest concern is at the beach.

GO HERE to read more.

Revenues Were Slightly Higher Than Expected In Fiscal 2010

Despite an overall decline in revenues, the state ended the budget year with a total General Fund balance of $344 million, $180 million more than projected in the spring.

“The good news is that we managed to outperform the catastrophic revenue projections that we were living under by more than $180 million,” Comptroller Peter Franchot said.

The state has a total General Fund balance of $344 million. Budget Secretary Eloise Foster said that the projections at the close of the General Assembly anticipated that the General Fund balance would have been $150 million at the end of the fiscal year, June 30.

But revenues are still dwindling. In 2010, Maryland collected 3.7% less than it did in 2009 – and $1.1 billion less than in 2008.

GO HERE to read more.

World's Scariest License Plate

Chihuahuas Adopted!!

Just a not to thank you for posting the two chihuahua mixes on your site August 17th. The have been adopted by a wonderful person who will give them the home they both deserve.

When Will The College Tuition Bubble Burst?

This is a chart from the Carpe Diem blog showing the increase in college education costs, U.S home prices, and the consumer price index. If we had a housing bubble, the skyrocketing costs of higher education is a super bubble.

More »

GPS And ID Card Tracks When Your Kid Gets On And Off Schoolbus

Before the kid gets on the bus, he has to swipe his electronic ID card. When he gets off, swipe again. The $16,000 kid-tracking system rolled out in a southwest Illinois suburban school district this week lets the school know where every bus and child is at all times. Parents and school administrators say it's a welcome relief, but is it too Orwellian?

More »

Scram! DC Shops Install Device That Emits Annoying Sound Only Kids Can Hear

A DC shop on one of the busiest retail strips has installed a "Mosquito" device in order to drive away teenagers who often loiter and fight there. The unit emits an annoying beeep beeep beeep at 17.5 kilohertz, which is at the upper range of audibility for 13-25 year olds. The business owners like it, but one passerby remarked, "It's classism and ageism. And it's sad."

More »

California Decides Not To Ban Plastic Bags

California lawmakers rejected a proposed statewide ban on plastic bags late Tuesday.

More »

Maybe The NRA's Right To Be Paranoid

I did not believe the National Rifle Association and all its Second Amendment hype until now.

My daughter gave her daddy a gun for his birthday. As a law-abiding citizen he went to transfer ownership. Ten days later a letter arrived from the Department of Justice — transfer denied, stated my husband is a felon and he can’t have fire arms. Shock: He knew he was not a felon, had bought and registered guns for years, and now that department states that he is a felon since 1972 and can’t have any guns.

My husband called the Department of Justice. No, they could not tell him what his crime was or anything about it. They could only talk to him about it if he brought up what the crime was first. As he did not know what his crime was, he could not tell them and they refused to give him any information. Their answer was he would have to go to the police department and pay to have a Live Scan or copy of his record done. He did that. Three week later, still no answers.

He started calling the Department of Justice over and over. No, they did not have the Live Scan request. No, they did not know what the problem was. No, they still could not give him information about the alleged crime. Over and over, still no answers, and sorry we now have lost your file. I will have to give my husband credit: He did not yell, swear or threaten these jerks that we are paying to so-called protect us from registered gun owners.

One month later panic is about to set in, as hunting season is getting close. Another interesting piece of information: He bought his hunting license and deer tag before he tried to transfer that gift from our daughter. No problem, it was issued without the slightest objection.

One more final phone call to the Department of Justice stating we were going to hire an attorney. So, interesting, they now said, “Oh sorry. Someone made a mistake. You are not a felon. No we have not sent you a copy of your record (that we paid for). No, we won’t send you a letter saying you’re not a felon but we have flagged your file and you should not have any further problems.”

What is going on when a government agency can write a letter stating, “You are a felon, you may not have guns, no we won’t tell you what you did, but you’re guilty until you prove different?” Then, when we did not back off, “Gee, sorry. Guess you are not a felon, but we won’t put it in writing.”

GO HERE to read more.

The To-Do List Gets Longer For House Ethics Investigators

The Office of Congressional Ethics recommends further investigation of Reps. John Campbell, Tom Price and Joseph Crowley.

Three House lawmakers -- two Republicans and one Democrat -- may soon be under investigation by the House ethics committee for potential links [1] between their political fundraisers and subsequent votes on the financial reform bill.

GO HERE to read more.

Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Releases

Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 31 August 2010
Location: 35000 block of Purnell Crossing Rd., Pittsville, MD
Suspect: Marie L. Smith, 18, Pittsville, MD

Narrative: On 31 August 2010 at 7:07 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported altercation inside a residence in the 35000 block of Purnell Crossing Road in Pittsville. Upon arrival, the deputy located a man and a woman in the roadway involved in an altercation. According to the male subject, his girlfriend, Marie Smith, allegedly ripped his shirt and scratched his chest during the altercation. The deputy observed the torn shirt and scratch marks, corroborating the male subject’s account.

The deputy placed Smith under arrest and transported her to the Central Booking Unit where she was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Smith was detained by the Commissioner in lieu of $20,000.00 bond.
Charges: Assault 2nd Degree

Incident: Burglary Investigation
Date of Incident: 31 August 2010
Location: 6000 block of Oak Ridge Drive, Hebron, MD
Suspect: Pending

Narrative: On 31 August 2010 at 3:30 PM, resident in the 6000 block of Oak Ridge Drive in Hebron came home to discover that a window screen had been ripped out and the window opened, allowing access into the residence. While the perpetrators were inside the residence, they apparently ransacked two bedrooms and made off with a substantial amount of jewelry. During the investigation, it was determined that this incident occurred between 11:30 AM and the time the victim came home the same day.

This incident is being actively investigated. Anyone who may have been in the area and witnessed anything is asked to contact the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4890.
You may also report any information anonymously through Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776.
Charges: Burglary 1st Degree

Incident: Burglary Investigation
Date of Incident: 31 August 2010
Location: 29000 block of Raven Court, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Pending

Narrative: On 31 August 2010 at 11:24 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to investigate a burglary in the 29000 block of Raven Court. Investigation revealed that the resident returned home to discover a rear bedroom window had been broken out. Once the perpetrator gained access to the residence, the perpetrator stole a lap top and other electronic items from the residence. Investigation revealed that this crime most likely happened between 9:30 PM and the time the victim returned just after 11 PM.

This incident is being actively investigated. Anyone who may have been in the area and witnessed anything is asked to contact the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4890.
You may also report any information anonymously through Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776.
Charges: Burglary 1st Degree

CONFLICT OF INTEREST MARS EHRLICH'S MCEA ENDORSEMENT

Group's Executive Director is a Republican Candidate for Delegate

Annapolis, MD (September 2, 2010) - Today the Maryland Classified Employees Association (MCEA) is set to endorse Bob Ehrlich for governor, but the head of the organization has a blatant conflict of interest: he's also running with Ehrlich on the Republican ticket.

The MCEA, a voluntary association of correctional offers and other state employees, is not a union designated to do any collective bargaining. The group's Executive Director, David Boschert, is a former Republican Delegate and current Republican candidate for Delegate in Anne Arundel County.

Maryland Democratic Party Chair, Susan Turnbull had this to say about the endorsement, "David Boschert is a candidate on the Republican ticket who also conveniently leads a purportedly non-partisan organization. He stands to benefit from Bob Ehrlich's success, so is it any surprise that his organization endorsed him?"

"It doesn't take much to figure out what backroom deals were made to throw this endorsement to Ehrlich and what empty promises Boschert conveyed to the membership on behalf of one of his buddies."

Bob Ehrlich To Receive Endorsement Of MCEA

The Maryland Classified Employees Association will announce its formal endorsement of Bob Ehrlich for Governor on Thursday in Baltimore. MCEA represents more than 10,000 current and former state employees. Bob Ehrlich has long supported fair treatment for state workers, and currently opposes any further furlough days being imposed in efforts to balance the state budget. The endorsement will occur in front of the State Office Complex on Preston Street with numerous MCEA members and officials taking part.

Wicomico County Health Department

September: National Food Safety Education Month
Residents Reminded to Practice Safe Food Handling During Holiday Weekend

Foodborne disease infections continue to be a serious health issue in the United States, causing an estimated 76 million people to become sick each year. The most common foodborne diseases associated with meat, poultry and fish are Salmonella, Campylobacter, and E. coli. Most people become sick by eating contaminated foods or beverages or by coming in contact with someone who has a foodborne illness. Pregnant women, older adults, infants and young children, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe infections.

September is National Food Safety Education Month and health officials are reminding everyone tobe “food safe” this holiday weekend by following the four basic steps of food safety: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.

CLEAN: Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food and after using the bathroom, changing diapers and handling pets. Wash your cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and counter tops with hot soapy water after preparing each food item and before you go on to the next food.

SEPARATE: Separate raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs from other foods in your grocery shopping cart, grocery bags and in your refrigerator.Use one cutting board for fresh produce and a separate one for raw meat, poultry and seafood.

COOK: Cook roasts and steaks to a minimum of 145°F. All poultry should reach a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F as measured with a food thermometer.Cook ground meat, where bacteria can spread during grinding, to at least 160°F. Cook fish to 145°F or until the flesh is opaque and separates easily with a fork. Heat other leftovers thoroughly to 165°F.

CHILL: Never let raw meat, poultry, eggs, cooked food or cut fresh fruits or vegetables sit at room temperature more than two hours before putting them in the refrigerator or freezer (one hour when the temperature is above 90°F).Never defrost food at room temperature. Food must be kept at a safe temperature during thawing. There are three safe ways to defrost food: in the refrigerator, in cold water, and in the microwave. Food thawed in cold water or in the microwave should be cooked immediately.

Additional information on proper food handling and food safety can be found at FIGHTBAC.org or call the Wicomico County Health Department Environmental Health Division at 410-546-4446.

Brothers Arrested After Separate Vehicle Pursuits

Location: Philadelphia Pike at Harvey Road, Claymont, DE
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday, August 31, 2010 between 8:40 p.m. and 10:20 p.m.
Defendants/Charges:
Michael J. McNulty, Jr., 43, Claymont, DE
Reckless Endangering 1st degree (2 counts), Unlawful Imprisonment 1st degree, Reckless Endangering 2nd degree, 16 motor vehicle offenses.

William F. McNulty, 33, Claymont, DE

Reckless Endangering 1st degree, Unlawful Imprisonment 1st degree, Reckless Endangering 2nd degree, Disregarding a Police Officer, Driving While Suspended, Reckless Driving.

Victim: 25 year old Claymont woman
40 year old Wilmington woman

Resume: The Delaware State Police Governors Task Force have arrested two Claymont brothers after they fled from police.

The first incident occurred last night at approximately 8:40 p.m. as members of the Governor’s Task Force were patrolling the area of Philadelphia Pike and Harvey Road in Claymont, when they observed that the operator of a blue Cadillac was not wearing a seatbelt. After the officers stopped the vehicle on Harvey Road in the area of I-95 and began to approach the driver, he sped off nearly running over the foot of one of the officers. McNulty fled northbound on Harvey Road and turned into the development of Radnor Green where he and a 25 year old female passenger exited the vehicle on Osage Road. They were apprehended a short time later walking from the car. The passenger was not charged with any crimes. Michael McNulty was arrested on the above list of charges. He was arraigned at JP Court 20 and committed to the Henry Young Correctional Institute for lack of $20,000.00 cash bail.

The second incident occurred at approximately 10:20 p.m. last night as Task Force Officers were again patrolling in the area of Philadelphia Pike in Claymont. It was at this time that they observed a green and tan Chevrolet Suburban traveling from Philadelphia Pike onto Princeton Avenue without using a turn signal. The officers then observed the vehicle driving at a high rate of speed and failing to signal at several intersections. After the Task Force Officers activated their patrol vehicle’s emergency equipment, the operator of the Suburban, later identified as William F. McNulty, failed to stop and began driving in a reckless manner in an attempt to elude police. William McNulty is the brother of Michael McNulty who the task force officers had arrested earlier. After a lengthy chase, William McNulty finally stopped his vehicle in the area of Governor Prince Boulevard and the Governor Prince Extension in Wilmington. McNulty, along with a 36 year old Wilmington woman who was a passenger in the vehicle, were taken into custody.

William McNulty was arrested for the above charges. The passenger was not arrested.

McNulty was arraigned at JP Court 11 and committed to the Henry Young Correctional Institute for lack of $18,500.00 cash bail. No one was injured in either incident.

SALISBURY CITY COUNCIL AGENDA

SEPTEMBER 7, 2010
CONFERENCE ROOM 306
GOVERNMENT OFFICE BUILDING

4:30 p.m. Update on the Anderson property (Linens of the Week) – John Pick
5:00 p.m. Follow-up on towing Ordinance – Ivan Barkley
5:30 p.m. Early Retiree Reinsurance Program – Pam Oland
6:00 p.m. Follow-up on Ordinance amending Chapter 15.24 of the Salisbury Municipal
Code relating to the Housing Board of Adjustments and Appeals – Tom Stevenson
6:30 p.m. Stormwater utility – Teresa Gardner
7:00 p.m. Onley Road/Bateman Street intersection improvements – John Pick
7:30 p.m. Humane Society Budget – Pam Oland
7:50 p.m. General discussion/upcoming agendas
7:55 p.m. Adjourn

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY REGARDING SENATOR ULYSSES CURRIE

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley issued the following statement regarding Senator Ulysses Currie:

“This is a sad day for the people of Prince George’s County and Senator Currie personally. People have the right to expect the highest ethical service from their public servants. This is now a matter for our courts to resolve.”

15th Annual West Wicomico Heritage Ride Is Slated For September 11th

Peddle through the History of the Eastern Shore
15th Annual West Wicomico Heritage Ride is Slated for September 11th

(Salisbury, MD) On Saturday, September 11th Pemberton Historical Park together with the Whitehaven Heritage Association will host the 15th Annual West Wicomico Heritage Bike Tour.

Bicycle riders will begin at Pemberton Historical Park, then tour 300 years of Maryland history, traveling through scenic farmlands, historic villages and tidewater wetlands. Participants may choose from a 15, 32, 50 or 62 mile ride. After the tour, riders will enjoy a picnic lunch as well as live entertainment.

The cost per rider is $55 and will include a t-shirt, rest stops, lunch and sag service. Proceeds of the tour go directly towards historic preservation and education. To register, visit www.pembertonpark.org. Pemberton Historical Park is located at 5561 Plantation Lane in Salisbury, MD. For more information, please contact Kerri Liming at (410)860-2447 or email pembertonpark@wicomicocounty.org.

How The British Feel About A Mosque At Ground Zero

What Happened At Your School During Summer Vacation

While students were off for the summer, schools stayed busy with Department of Facility Services projects to maintain and improve school facilities for students and staff, in keeping with the Master Plan strategic priorities of Safe Learning Environment, Effective and Efficient Operations, and High Student Achievement.

The closing of the old James M. Bennett High and the opening of the new JMB was the most visible project, but work was done throughout the school system. Click on the summerprojects2010 pdf to see the facility work done at your school or schools.

Documents
[504]summerprojects2010.pdf

County, School Officials Walk With Students On New Safe Sidewalks Near Salisbury Middle School

Wicomico County Executive Richard M. Pollitt, Jr., Wicomico County First District Councilwoman Sheree Sample-Hughes, Wicomico County Board of Education President Michelle Wright, Wicomico County Schools Superintendent John Fredericksen, Acting Wicomico County Director of Public Works John Redden and others involved in the Safe Routes to School sidewalk project joined Principal Amy Eskridge and students from Salisbury Middle School as they used their new sidewalks to leave school on Tuesday, Aug. 31, the first full day for all students at Salisbury Middle.

The walk marked the official opening of the $351,500 “Safe Routes to School” project which provided 31,000 square feet of new and improved sidewalks around and near Salisbury Middle School. Funded by a grant from the Maryland State Highway Administration, the work was planned and completed by the Wicomico County Department of Public Works.

County Executive Pollitt commented that, “I am confident that all county officials, educators and parents are very grateful that we have made these grant-funded sidewalk improvements which will enable our children to have a safer walk to and from school.”

Amy Eskridge, principal of Salisbury Middle School, said, "It was a long time coming and a much needed project. It's great because students don't have to walk in the street, so they are safer walking to and from school."

The project is well aligned with the Board of Education's three Master Plan strategic priorities of Safe Learning Environment and Effective and Efficient Operations, and will support the third strategic priority of High Student Achievement.

COPELAND LEADS ‘BIRDS TO 1-0 SHUTOUT OF INTIMIDATORS

Quickest Nine-Inning Game Since the 2001 Season

Salisbury, Md. – The Delmarva Shorebirds plated a run in the second inning and rode the pitching staff to a 1-0 shutout of Kannapolis at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium on Wednesday night. The game lasted only one hour and 53 minutes, the quickest nine-inning game of the season and the quickest nine-inning contest since the 2001 season. The Shorebirds played a 1-hour and 49 minute nine-inning game during the ’01 season.

The Shorebirds scored the lone run of the contest in the second. With one out, Levi Carolus hit a double to left field. Omar Casamayor followed with a line drive single into right-center field to plate Carolus.

Scott Copeland pitched very well in his debut for the Shorebirds. In six innings, he allowed just five hits. The Southern Mississippi product fanned four and walked only two batters.

James Brandhorst tossed two flawless innings to earn his seventh hold of the season. David Walters entered in the ninth inning and struck out two of the three he faced to pick up his fourth save.

Kannapolis starter Justin Collop was pinned with a tough-luck loss in eight solid innings. He allowed seven hits and one run. Collop fanned seven and walked just one.

The Shorebirds aim for the their first series win since mid-July on Thursday night against Kannapolis. LHP Nick Haughian takes the hill for the ‘Birds.

SHOREBIRDS GAME NOTES: September 1 vs. Kannapolis

PREVIEW: The Shorebirds gave up three runs in the ninth inning last night as Kannapolis took game two, 5-2, to level the series at one game apiece. The Shorebirds have just six games remaining in the 2010 season. Scott Copeland becomes the 14th pitcher to make a start this season. He was added to the roster yesterday along with Clayton Schrader.

ASSISTING THE TEAM: Right fielder Mikey Planeta leads the South Atlantic League with 16 outfield assists this season. The last player to record more than 16 was Arturo Rivas, who notched 17 in 2005. According to the current MILB stats portal and The Baseball Cube, nobody in Shorebirds history has ever recorded more than 17 outfield assists in a single season.

ON A TEAR: Shorebirds shortstop Garabez Rosa is on a tear of late. He has recorded a hit in six of his last seven straight games. He is 13-for-28 during the stretch (.464). His batting average has jumped from .238 to .252 during the stretch. Rosa has also plated at least one run in six of his last seven games (8 total). Rosa is now batting .278 in the month of August in 26 games, his highest month average since April (.333).

WINNING RECORD AT HOME: The Shorebirds are in danger of suffering their first losing season at home since at least the 2004 season. The Shorebirds have had winning records at home in each of the six years (229-180 between 2004-2009).

Salisbury News Asks The $64,000.00 Question

Originally posted at 10:30 PM Wednesday.

In what turned out to be a standing room only crowd tonight, (even after they added additional chairs) the panelists were only able to ask two questions. I was 4th in line to ask and because things were moving so slow, I wasn't sure I'd be able to ask a second question.

That being said, I said, "Mr. Ruark, We all know you encountered some personal problems during this last term. Why should the voters of Wicomico County be willing to overlook those and elect you to a seventh term?"

Look Folks, there's absolutely no question in my mind that this is a question in which I felt the majority of citizens would like to ask but are too afraid to ask. Is it a tough question, absolutely. However, it is a very fair question.

I'll save Davis Ruark's answer for tomorrow but if you were there you are welcome to chime in. The question brought out several people who raised their voices saying, that's not fair. Or NO! I will say this. Davis Ruark welcomed the question and answered it head on. Everyone I spoke to said he did a fantastic job addressing it.