DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
STATEMENT FROM O'MALLEY-BROWN CAMPAIGN ON BOB EHRLICH'S LATEST MISLEADING AD
Baltimore, MD (October 19, 2010) -- In response to Bob Ehrlich's newest TV ad, O'Malley-Brown Deputy Campaign Manager Rick Abbruzzese issued the following statement:
"Bob Ehrlich's newest misleading ad has one big problem--Marylanders have learned they can't trust Ehrlich's empty promises. They know Ehrlich raised $3 billion in taxes and fees on Maryland families and businesses--then repeatedly denied it. They know Ehrlich jacked up college tuition by 40% and put higher education opportunities out of reach for many Maryland families. They know Ehrlich failed to invest in public schools in easier times and is now openly pledging to cut funding for schools if elected. And they know Ehrlich enriched himself to the tune of $2.5 million as a hired gun for a special interest lobbying firm.
"The reason that Marylanders are rallying behind Governor Martin O'Malley heading into the final two weeks of this campaign is that Governor O'Malley has been and will always be on their side when it comes to important issues like creating jobs, expanding educational opportunity, and protecting core priorities in tough times."
MARYLAND DEMOCRATS TO HOLD PRESS CONFERENCE WARNING VOTERS ABOUT ELECTION DAY DIRTY TRICKS
In the 2002 Governor’s race, Bob Ehrlich’s campaign distributed a brochure at African American voting precincts that included a picture of Mr. Ehrlich, Congressman Elijah Cummings and other notable African American leaders - along with the caption:“Democrats for Ehrlich.” That assertion was not true.
In 2006, Bob Ehrlich’s campaign for Governor bused homeless people from Philadelphia on Election Day to distribute fliers designed to trick African American Democratic voters into voting for him by falsely suggesting that Ehrlich was backed by prominent African American Democratic leaders. This year, in a fundraising email, the Ehrlich campaign suggested that it is impossible that African-Americans will turn out in high numbers in 2010.
States Attorney Race
Joe,
Just received my voting info from the elections office and guess what they did to Matts. Last name. They spelled it MADARELLO.What a blunder for him.I would be highly pissed. This is what we have working in the election fields now.
No proof reading anywhere. Thought I would drop you a note. He's my choice any way its spelled. I guess a lotta notes have been sent by now.
Just received my voting info from the elections office and guess what they did to Matts. Last name. They spelled it MADARELLO.What a blunder for him.I would be highly pissed. This is what we have working in the election fields now.
No proof reading anywhere. Thought I would drop you a note. He's my choice any way its spelled. I guess a lotta notes have been sent by now.
COUNCIL APPOINTS INTERNAL AUDITOR
By the unanimous consent of the Wicomico County Council, Gail M. Bartkovich, County Council President, announced today the appointment of James Stephen Roser, CPA to the position of County Internal Auditor. A Wicomico County resident, Mr. Roser is a graduate of University of Maryland Baltimore County, BA and Salisbury University, MBA-Accounting. Mr. Roser is a Maryland-licensed Certified Public Accountant with prior experience as a practicing CPA in the private sector. He will begin his county service on November 4, 2010. The County Council has approved a salary for the Internal Auditor of $69,000.
The County Internal Auditor prepares and submits to the County Council and the County Executive reports on internal accounting control, administrative and operational practices, procedures and other pertinent financial and compliance matters. As directed by the County Council, the Internal Auditor’s duties may include operational and performance auditing of any office, department, or agency which receives county funds.
The County Internal Auditor reports directly to the County Council and serves at its pleasure.
Wicomico County Executive Richard M. Pollitt, Jr., commented, “I offer congratulations to the Council on filling this important position. I am eager to work with the newly-appointed Internal Auditor.”
County Council President Gail Bartkovich said, “The County Council is very pleased that Mr. Roser was our unanimous choice to be the county’s Internal Auditor.”
Salisbury News Surpasses Last Years Posts
Salisbury News surpassed last years Posts, (10,969 in 2009) to 10,989 to date for 2010.
Maryland Judicial Vacancies
The Judicial Nominating Commissions select and nominate to the Governor persons found by the Commission to be legally and most fully professionally qualified to fill a vacancy. The table includes all current vacancies. Once the close date to a vacancy passes, the names of all applicants will be listed. The public is encouraged to participate in the selection process by submitting written and signed comments concerning the qualifications of an applicant to The Judicial Nominating Commission, c/o The Administrative Office of the Courts, Program Services, 2001-D Commerce Park Drive, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. The comments must be received at least one week prior to the commission meeting date shown in the table below.
The Nominating Commission meets to interview all candidates. Thereafter a voting session takes place and the names of nominees are reported to the Governor. This usually occurs the same day or morning after the Commission meets. As soon as the names have been reported to the Governor this chart is updated to reflect the names of those nominated to a vacancy.
Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this table. Please recognize, however, that this list does not constitute official notification of individuals nominated for, or appointed to, a judicial vacancy. Rather, the official list of candidates for a vacancy is compiled by the Administrative Office of the Courts and sent to the Governor's Office. The Governor's Office officially notifies the appointed individual and releases an official notice to the public. When an appointment to a vacancy is announced by the Governor's Office, the name is highlighted in red.
The Nominating Commission meets to interview all candidates. Thereafter a voting session takes place and the names of nominees are reported to the Governor. This usually occurs the same day or morning after the Commission meets. As soon as the names have been reported to the Governor this chart is updated to reflect the names of those nominated to a vacancy.
Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this table. Please recognize, however, that this list does not constitute official notification of individuals nominated for, or appointed to, a judicial vacancy. Rather, the official list of candidates for a vacancy is compiled by the Administrative Office of the Courts and sent to the Governor's Office. The Governor's Office officially notifies the appointed individual and releases an official notice to the public. When an appointment to a vacancy is announced by the Governor's Office, the name is highlighted in red.
| COURT | REASON FOR VACANCY | CLOSE DATE 4:30 p.m. | APPLICANTS **Pool* | COMM. MTG | NOMINATIONS Appointed**Pool |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit Court for Worcester County | Retirement of the Honorable Theodore R. Eschenburg | 8/11/10 | Cheryl Kelley Jacobs Mary Margaret Kent Brian Daniel Shockley Regan James Reno Smith Kathryn Vivian Westbrook | 9/28/10 | Mary Margaret Kent Brian Daniel Shockley Regan James Reno Smith Kathryn Vivian Westbrook |
| Court of Special Appeals-for 6th Appellate Circuit-Baltimore City | Retirement of the Honorable Arrie W. Davis | 9/21/10 | Honorable Audrey J. S. Carrion Honorable Shirley M. Watts Honorable Pamela Janice White | 11/16/10 | |
| Circuit Court for Wicomico County | Retirement of the Honorable Donald C. Davis | 10/18/10 | Melvin Joseph Caldwell, Jr. Angela Beth DiPietro Cynthia Brubaker MacDonald Leah Jane Seaton Stephen Mark Tilghman | 12/14/10 | |
| *Individuals whose names were submitted to the Governor for a judicial vacancy but who were not appointed become part of a pool that will be considered automatically for each vacancy on the same court occurring within two years after submission of the initial list. | |||||
Coming Soon: O’Malley Tax Increases
ANNAPOLIS – Reports have surfaced indicating Governor O’Malley’s tax commission has already scheduled meetings to convene shortly after Election Day. The commission will meet four times post election, with a vote from the group taking place as early as November 16th. Maryland Republican Party Chairman Audrey Scott released the following statement in response to O’Malley’s plans to raise taxes:
“New reports confirm what we already knew; Governor O’Malley plans to raise Maryland’s taxes if reelected. Marylanders already struggling with record unemployment and the highest taxes in the State’s history cannot afford another round of crippling tax hikes. It’s now clear why Martin O’Malley has refused to make a no new taxes pledge, it’s because he’s already made up his mind to raise them. Between manipulating jobs reports and hush-hush tax commission meetings, O’Malley’s inclination to pull the wool over the eyes of Maryland residents is the kind of politics as usual that Marylanders are fed up with.”
Among the tax increases to be considered:
· Alternative minimum tax
· Gross receipts tax
· Value added tax
· Broadening the sales tax base
Maryland Fraternal Order Of Police Endorses Bob Ehrlich
BALTIMORE - Bob Ehrlich was endorsed today by the Maryland Fraternal Order of Police in his campaign for governor. The Maryland Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) has just under 20,000 members in 77 lodges statewide and serves as the voice of those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our communities.
“Today’s endorsement is a great honor,” Ehrlich said. “I am deeply committed to helping Maryland’s law enforcement professionals in their daily efforts to keep Maryland families and streets safe. I truly appreciate the difficult and important job done every day by our public safety professionals. As governor, I will fight for the policies that support the mission of these brave men and women. Foremost among my priorities is to end furloughs for law enforcement professionals, which harms public safety and demoralizes our workforce. I know we will be able to work together to keep Maryland safe and secure.”
“Governor Ehrlich has proven throughout his years in public service that he is a strong supporter of law enforcement and law enforcement issues,” Maryland FOP Executive Board member Mike Young said. “While Governor, he supported and signed key law enforcement sponsored bills such as the ‘felony assault bill,’ making it a felony to attack police officers while in the performance of their duties. This was a critical piece of legislation that enhances jail time for those citizens who believe that attacking police officers is an acceptable practice. Governor Ehrlich’s support was crucial. He has earned the endorsement and the support of the Fraternal Order of Police, Maryland State Lodge. The FOP looks forward to working with him for the next four years.”
OCPD WARNING CITIZENS TO BEWARE OF SCAMS
popular retail posting sites such as “autotrader.com” and “ebay.com”.
This particular scam involves a victim attempting to gain employment for a service, in one case it was to provide cleaning service for a person who is living out of the country and owns property in Ocean City. All employment negotiations and correspondence were done through email.
The scam works as follows; the victim is offered employment and mailed a counterfeit “check” to cover the costs of the service provided. In most cases the check is either drawn on an obscure corporate business account from what appears to be a legitimate bank or is a cashier’s check from a well known national bank.
The victim is paid more money than was negotiated and asked to quickly deposit the “check” into the victims account. Once the “check” is deposited into the victims account, the victim is asked to withdraw a
portion of the money, and send it via “Western Union” to an additional location, usually as part of way for the alleged “employer” to pay for additional services or transportation fees as means to avoid overseas fees and or taxes.
By the time the victim transfers actual funds the local bank where the original check was deposited notifies the victim that the check they deposited is fraudulent and that the money they withdrew and sent using
“Western Union” is gone. The result is the victim is responsible for the overdraft on the account even though the check is a fake and the victim is out the money.
What transpires is a crime of fraud and theft, however while it will be investigated it is very difficult to catch the perpetrators and unlikely the victims money will be recovered. In this case, an alert bank official
immediately suspected the check was a fake, and the victim was not scammed.
The OCPD recommends that persons do not engage in internet based employment activities where the employer is not well known to the employee. If you receive any money in the form of corporate or bank
checks, you should allow them to fully clear your banks authentication and verification processes, this typically takes 7 business days. Do not send any money using wire transfer services as this is the tell-tale sign
of a counterfeit check scam.
If you have been the victim of a scam please contact the police. If you have been solicited for this type of scam, save your correspondence and contact your local police department. The OCPD advises citizens to never provide your personal banking account information and/or personal identification information including birthday, social security number to anyone over the internet.
CONGRESSMAN WAYNE GILCHREST ENDORSES GOVERNOR O'MALLEY
Independent Statesman and Environmentalist Crosses Party Lines to Support Governor 'On the Side' of Maryland's Working Families
Eastern shore, MD (October 19, 2010)-- Today, Former Republican Congressman Wayne T. Gilchrest formally endorsed Martin O'Malley for Governor. Citing Governor O'Malley's commitment to families on Maryland's Eastern Shore and environmental stewardship, Congressman Gilchrest's endorsement comes just two days after Governor O'Malley received the endorsement of The Star Democrat and The Washington Post.
"Congressman Gilchrest has served our state and our country with honor and distinction. I am humbled to have his support in this election and I am honored to call him my friend" said Governor Martin O'Malley. "Moving our state forward isn't about partisanship and ideology, it's about working together to build a brighter future for the next generation and preserving our natural resources that are absolutely vital to our quality of life."
O'Malley continued, "I look forward to continuing to work with Congressman Gilchrest on our efforts to restore the health of the Chesapeake Bay, protect our State Parks, and teach our children to be environmental stewards."
"Governor O'Malley is to be commended for making the tough decisions to move Maryland forward during very difficult economic times," said Congressman Gilchrest. "His efforts to restore the health of the Bay, preserve our open space, and teach our children important lessons about environmental stewardship are helping to improve the quality of life for countless families on the Eastern Shore. I know Martin O'Malley. I have counseled him on environmental policy and I know he makes all of his decisions with the best interests of Maryland families in mind."
Congressman Gilchrest represented Maryland's Eastern Shore for decades and is well known for his strong stance on protecting Maryland's environment--a commitment shared by the O'Malley-Brown administration. Before he was elected to Congress, Congressman Gilchrest served in the United States Marines and was a high school teacher at Kent County High School.
Governor O'Malley has been recognized as a national leader in implementing effective environmental restoration policies. And because of his innovative BayStat program and effective policies, the Maryland Blue Crab population is at a ten-year high and the Bay is the healthiest it's been since 2002.
What's The Difference Between These Two Signs?
One is legal, one is NOT.
Notice how the Maciarello sign has an authority line and the Mitchell sign does not.
Great, a States Attorney Candidate who doesn't follow the LAW!
UPDATE: Do I stand corrected?
We are told there's an authority line underneath the "E" on this sign.
UPDATE: Do I stand corrected?
We are told there's an authority line underneath the "E" on this sign.
Should A Good States Attorney Behave Like This?
Back on September 2nd I stated the following: "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."
After speaking to some very respectable people this morning we all agreed, Seth Mitchell is a desperate man who acts like a spoiled child. GA Harrison recently posted an article, If Seth Mitchell Knocks On Your Door … in which he mentions Seth going after little old ladies who already have Matt Maciarello signs in their yard. Is this really how a professional States Attorney should behave?
Being the States Attorney isn't just about prosecuting cases, it's about managing your staff and being a leader. Bullying citizens and business owners is NOT the way to prove you're the man for the job. I personally believe Seth is so desperate that he will go out, (as proven over and over again) and place one of his campaign signs literally 3 feet in front of his opponent. Again, who's endorsing Seth Mitchell, NO ONE! A good man once defended me when he was asked, why do you associate yourself with Joe Albero. His reply was, I judge a man by the company he keeps. Debbie Campbell, Terry Cohen, Rick Pollitt, Stevie Prettyman, Sandy Fitzgerald, John Cannon, Andy Harris, Jeannie Hadaway, the list goes on and on. Who does Seth Mitchell keep company with?
In closing, I went inside this restaurant, (in which I enjoy more so than any other Mexican restaurant in town) and spoke directly with the Owner. He was completely unaware that Seth had just placed this sign directly in front of Matt's. He politely came outside with me and walked around the corner to see what I was complaining about. He was shocked and instantly grabbed one side of the sign while I grabbed the other and together we REMOVED Seth's sign and placed it to the side. By the way Seth, you're welcome to install it again, just not in front of Matt's sign.
Folks, if you know of ANY other location in which Seth Mitchell has done this to Matt Maciarello, please contact me at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com and I will head out there immediately to take more pictures and discuss it with the property owner. I want to thank La Tolteca for removing this sign as the owner simply wants to remain neutral but understands how unfair this move was on Seth's behalf.
Salisbury Police Department Press Releases
On October 18, 2010 at approximately 7:37 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the one thousand (1000) block of Roger Street for the report of a fight in progress. Upon arrival the officers met with victims and witnesses who advised that the below listed four (4) subjects had been involved in a physical altercation with each other. The officers calmed the situation and left the area but were called back a short time later for a continuance of the altercation with the same suspects. The four (4) suspects were taken into custody and during the arrest, suspect # 1 assaulted the arresting officer.
ARRESTED #1: Juvenile male, 16 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Second degree assault (2 counts)
ARRESTED #2: Juvenile female, 16 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED # 3: Juvenile female, 14 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #4: Juvenile female, 14 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES (suspects # 2, #3, #4): Second degree assault
DISPOSITION: All released to parents/guardian
CC # 201000041589
On October 18, 2010 at approximately 11:15 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to a residence on Georgia Avenue for the report of a domestic assault. Upon arrival the officers met with a female victim and witnesses who advised the officers that the below listed suspect had assaulted two (2) family members causing minor injuries. The injuries did not require medical attention.
ARRESTED: Rodney Charon Ballard, 33 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Second degree assault (2 counts)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000041531
ARRESTED #1: Juvenile male, 16 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Second degree assault (2 counts)
ARRESTED #2: Juvenile female, 16 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED # 3: Juvenile female, 14 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #4: Juvenile female, 14 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES (suspects # 2, #3, #4): Second degree assault
DISPOSITION: All released to parents/guardian
CC # 201000041589
On October 18, 2010 at approximately 11:15 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to a residence on Georgia Avenue for the report of a domestic assault. Upon arrival the officers met with a female victim and witnesses who advised the officers that the below listed suspect had assaulted two (2) family members causing minor injuries. The injuries did not require medical attention.
ARRESTED: Rodney Charon Ballard, 33 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Second degree assault (2 counts)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000041531
Ehrlich-Kane Campaign Raises More Than $2.8 Million In 49 Days
ANNAPOLIS -- The Ehrlich-Kane campaign today announced nearly 12,000 contributions helped raise more than $2.8 million in the reporting period from August 30th to October 17th, 2010. The campaign maintains $1.7 million cash on hand.
“The commitment and generosity of my supporters continues to humble me,” said Governor Ehrlich. “This report reaffirms the momentum we take into the final weeks of this campaign. Marylanders know our state has moved in the wrong direction under Martin O’Malley and are ready for strong leadership to create jobs, lower taxes, and hold the line on spending.”
Ehrlich/Kane Campaign Finance Report Facts
Since August 30th, 2010, 8,989 donors have made 11,532 contributions to the campaign.
Total raised: $2.825 million, including $30,825 for the Mary Kane for Maryland Committee.
During the August 3rd to October 17th, 2010 reporting period
More than 98 percent of all contributions are from Maryland (every jurisdiction in Maryland).
The campaigns average contribution is $245.
On average, the campaign raised $57,670 a day.
No loans were taken.
Maryland Needs A New Team In Washington
SEVERNA PARK, Md. – Andy Harris today released his fourth television ad of the 2010 election, entitled “The Team.”
“Frank Kratovil is a part of the Obama-Pelosi Team that is rapidly destroying the American Dream,” said Bill Lattanzi, Campaign Manager-Andy Harris for Congress. “Kratovil, Obama, and Pelosi are the root of the problem. They send jobs overseas at a time when Marylanders are out of work, they force tax-hiking legislation onto Americans at a time when we need tax breaks, and they’ve pushed the national debt to an unimaginable point. It’s time to send Frank Kratovil home and send a new team to Washington that will actually vote with Maryland’s interests in mind.”
The 30 second ad is airing in both the Baltimore and Salisbury markets. You can watch the ad here.
“Frank Kratovil is a part of the Obama-Pelosi Team that is rapidly destroying the American Dream,” said Bill Lattanzi, Campaign Manager-Andy Harris for Congress. “Kratovil, Obama, and Pelosi are the root of the problem. They send jobs overseas at a time when Marylanders are out of work, they force tax-hiking legislation onto Americans at a time when we need tax breaks, and they’ve pushed the national debt to an unimaginable point. It’s time to send Frank Kratovil home and send a new team to Washington that will actually vote with Maryland’s interests in mind.”
The 30 second ad is airing in both the Baltimore and Salisbury markets. You can watch the ad here.
External School Bus Cameras Document Unsafe Motorists
WASHINGTON -- This bus stops bad drivers.
Montgomery County school buses are now equipped with external cameras, keeping an eye on surrounding drivers when the stop sign is out and the red lights are on.
The new safety enforcement tactic aims at documenting drivers who don't adhere to school bus safety procedures.
"It happens way too frequently, and each time it happens it's a potentially dangerous situation for kids," says Todd Watkins, director of transportation for Montgomery County schools.
GO HERE to read more.
Montgomery County school buses are now equipped with external cameras, keeping an eye on surrounding drivers when the stop sign is out and the red lights are on.
The new safety enforcement tactic aims at documenting drivers who don't adhere to school bus safety procedures.
"It happens way too frequently, and each time it happens it's a potentially dangerous situation for kids," says Todd Watkins, director of transportation for Montgomery County schools.
GO HERE to read more.
Obama's Border Patrol Chief: Give Illegals ‘Road To Citizenship’
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Alan Bersin, who oversees both the Customs Service and the Border Patrol, says the United States needs to undertake a “paradigm shift” in how it views the U.S.-Mexico border.
This shift, Bersin explained in a speech last Thursday at the Migration Policy Institute in Washington, D.C., would include both a “road to citizenship” for illegal aliens and understanding that the “best way” to secure the border is to allow Mexicans to work in the United States legally in the future—to create what he called “a legitimate labor market between the United States and Mexico.”
On Monday, a CBP spokesperson told CNSNews.com that what Bersin meant by this was “having a temporary worker program that is conducive to our labor needs.”
The unemployment rate in the United States was at 9.6 percent in September and has been at 9.5 percent or higher since August 2009, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
More from CNS News
This shift, Bersin explained in a speech last Thursday at the Migration Policy Institute in Washington, D.C., would include both a “road to citizenship” for illegal aliens and understanding that the “best way” to secure the border is to allow Mexicans to work in the United States legally in the future—to create what he called “a legitimate labor market between the United States and Mexico.”
On Monday, a CBP spokesperson told CNSNews.com that what Bersin meant by this was “having a temporary worker program that is conducive to our labor needs.”
The unemployment rate in the United States was at 9.6 percent in September and has been at 9.5 percent or higher since August 2009, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
More from CNS News
Stunning: O'Malley Calls Illegal Immigrants ‘New Americans’
Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, in his first televised debate with Republican challenger Bob Ehrlich, repeatedly referred to people who come to this country illegally as “new Americans” on Monday night.
In response to a question, O’Malley called illegal immigration “a huge challenge for our country” and he said the federal government needs to “do a better job” of enforcing the nation’s borders.
He called on Congress to pass a comprehensive immigration reform “so that people who are here can apply for citizenship, obey the law, and pay their taxes and live in the full light and openness and transparency of our American society.
“I do not believe, as the former governor (Ehrlich) has said before, that multi-culturalism is bunk,” O’Malley continued.More here
In response to a question, O’Malley called illegal immigration “a huge challenge for our country” and he said the federal government needs to “do a better job” of enforcing the nation’s borders.
He called on Congress to pass a comprehensive immigration reform “so that people who are here can apply for citizenship, obey the law, and pay their taxes and live in the full light and openness and transparency of our American society.
“I do not believe, as the former governor (Ehrlich) has said before, that multi-culturalism is bunk,” O’Malley continued.More here
Have The People Already Decided?
That being said, you have to wonder, are the races already over. Have people already decided who they're going to vote for, therefore there's no need to listen to what each candidate has to say. On the flip side of the coin, perhaps this could mean that voter turn out at the polls will stink this year.
There are a lot of questions and variables, so what exactly did you miss last night. Not much at all. The questions seemed to be pretty similar to what we already asked in candidate interviews. Mind you, I didn't stick around until the end but from what I did see, Bob Culver absolutely spanked Cowell's answers, one after the other. Culver proved Cowell had absolutely NO CLUE what he was talking about and even though Cowell made each answer sound as if he had actually researched it, Culver politely corrected him immediately following and Cowell tried to make a joke out of it.
Matt Holloway excelled in this forum as well. I spoke to a few of the people that attended and they agreed. This young man certainly has a strong future in Wicomico County politics. All in all Folks, you didn't miss much. The big problem with these forums are as follows. They ask a question and they expect all 8 candidates to answer it. The problem is, once you get past the third or fourth candidate, everyone has the same answer and or they seem to be protected, (even if they had no clue) for the answer.
Eight candidates, 2 minute answers, that's 16 minutes taken up with there for one question with pretty much all the same answers. The only creative answers, (imho) was Holloway and Culver. They did their homework and even 2 of the candidates who have already served Wicomico County for the past 4 years didn't seem to offer much.
A good moderator, (no disrespect) would have challenged each candidates answer to liven things up a bit. Hopefully the congress has learned from this experience. One thing is for sure, Salisbury News will hold a forum for the City Elections in March. Someone has to take the bull by the horns and do this right.
Crisfield, (by the way) had around 200 people in attendance at their forum last night. Clearly people are still undecided down there.
More Proof That This Doesn't Work
Just three years after a Democrat-led Congress imposed the federal minimum wage on two U.S. territories in the Pacific, lawmakers last month halted the program in its tracks, acknowledging the move had sapped thousands of jobs from American Samoa and the commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
The two-year delay in the case of American Samoa and one-year reprieve for the Northern Mariana Islands was imposed even as both parties have sparred over the effects of the minimum wage in the U.S. during the troubled economy.
"We said this increase would be harmful in 2007, and the Democrats did it anyway," said Rep. Patrick T. McHenry, North Carolina Republican. "It proves our point that the federal government setting wage rates is destructive to job creation, whether it's in American Samoa or western North Carolina."
The story is a complicated study in political pressure, lawmaking and unintended consequences. It began just after Democrats took control of both chambers of Congress in early 2007.More here
The two-year delay in the case of American Samoa and one-year reprieve for the Northern Mariana Islands was imposed even as both parties have sparred over the effects of the minimum wage in the U.S. during the troubled economy.
"We said this increase would be harmful in 2007, and the Democrats did it anyway," said Rep. Patrick T. McHenry, North Carolina Republican. "It proves our point that the federal government setting wage rates is destructive to job creation, whether it's in American Samoa or western North Carolina."
The story is a complicated study in political pressure, lawmaking and unintended consequences. It began just after Democrats took control of both chambers of Congress in early 2007.More here
A Trillion-Dollar Lame-Duck Omnibus Appropriations Bill
While Republicans and Democrats fight for control of Congress, a behind-the-scenes budget fight is brewing over an omnibus appropriations bill that lawmakers may need to consider quickly upon their return after the midterm election.
Lobbyists and congressional aides say Democratic appropriators are mulling a 12-bill omnibus to fund the government in 2011 after the current stopgap measure expires in early December.
Republicans complain that they are being shut out of negotiations and are sounding warnings that Democrats will try to jam a $1 trillion bill through Congress immediately following the midterm elections.
“We have not been told a single thing,” a House GOP aide said. “There has not been one phone call from the majority to us.”
Several lobbyists said Republicans haven’t been involved in discussions and are predicting a partisan battle in the lame-duck session over the omnibus.
More details>>
Lobbyists and congressional aides say Democratic appropriators are mulling a 12-bill omnibus to fund the government in 2011 after the current stopgap measure expires in early December.
Republicans complain that they are being shut out of negotiations and are sounding warnings that Democrats will try to jam a $1 trillion bill through Congress immediately following the midterm elections.
“We have not been told a single thing,” a House GOP aide said. “There has not been one phone call from the majority to us.”
Several lobbyists said Republicans haven’t been involved in discussions and are predicting a partisan battle in the lame-duck session over the omnibus.
More details>>
Critics Blast Obama Nuclear Deal With Vietnam
A proposed nuclear deal between the United States and Vietnam has drawn protests from two former U.S. congressmen who contend it does not include restrictions on enriching uranium, the process that rogue nations use to manufacture nuclear weapons.
Former Congressmen William Hendon, R-N.C. and John LeBoutillier, R-N.Y. argue that the move could heighten the risk of nuclear proliferation; could increase the possibility of nuclear materials falling into extremists' hands; and contend that the deal runs counter to the U.S. policy.
"We're going to give the Vietnamese nuclear enrichment authority, which could lead to nuclear weapons or, more frightening, loose nuclear material in terrorist hands," Hendon told a news conference in Washington.
Critics have blasted the Vietnam deal as contradicting President Barack Obama’s stated nuclear goals.Here's more
Former Congressmen William Hendon, R-N.C. and John LeBoutillier, R-N.Y. argue that the move could heighten the risk of nuclear proliferation; could increase the possibility of nuclear materials falling into extremists' hands; and contend that the deal runs counter to the U.S. policy.
"We're going to give the Vietnamese nuclear enrichment authority, which could lead to nuclear weapons or, more frightening, loose nuclear material in terrorist hands," Hendon told a news conference in Washington.
Critics have blasted the Vietnam deal as contradicting President Barack Obama’s stated nuclear goals.Here's more
Megachurch Birthplace Of 'Hour Of Power' Files For Bankruptcy In California
GARDEN GROVE, Calif. -- Crystal Cathedral, the megachurch birthplace of the televangelist show "Hour of Power," filed for bankruptcy Monday in Southern California after struggling to emerge from debt that exceeds $43 million.
In addition to a $36 million mortgage, the Orange County-based church owes $7.5 million to several hundred vendors for services ranging from advertising to the use of live animals in Easter and Christmas services.
The church had been negotiating a repayment plan with vendors, but several filed lawsuits seeking quicker payment, which prompted a coalition formed by creditors to fall apart, church officials said.
GO HERE to read more.
A Canadian Line Of Campbell's Soups Has Activists Stewing Over Islamic Connection
Andy Warhol found artistic inspiration in a can of Campbell's tomato soup. These days, some activists are finding sinister Muslim connections in the same can.
Campbell Soup Co., the Camden, N.J., food giant, has been fighting a grass-roots boycott of its products after its Canadian subsidiary rolled out a line of soups certified as halal, meaning they're prepared according to Islamic dietary laws.
Campbell Co. of Canada introduced the soups in a few Canadian markets in January, although American bloggers didn't catch up to the news until earlier this month.
That's when the tempest in a tomato-soup can started.
Blogger Pamela Geller began calling for a boycott earlier this month via her widely read site, Atlas Shrugs.
Other bloggers soon joined in.
The halal soups, designated with a special label, are available only in Canada. The company has no plans to offer a similar line in the United States, said John Faulkner, a company spokesman.
GO HERE to read more.
Campbell Soup Co., the Camden, N.J., food giant, has been fighting a grass-roots boycott of its products after its Canadian subsidiary rolled out a line of soups certified as halal, meaning they're prepared according to Islamic dietary laws.
Campbell Co. of Canada introduced the soups in a few Canadian markets in January, although American bloggers didn't catch up to the news until earlier this month.
That's when the tempest in a tomato-soup can started.
Blogger Pamela Geller began calling for a boycott earlier this month via her widely read site, Atlas Shrugs.
Other bloggers soon joined in.
The halal soups, designated with a special label, are available only in Canada. The company has no plans to offer a similar line in the United States, said John Faulkner, a company spokesman.
GO HERE to read more.
Opportunities To Support Our Students And Schools
Thursday, Oct. 21
STARS/WCBOE Lights On Afterschool Event
Barnes & Noble
On Thursday, Oct. 21 from 5:30-8 p.m., Wicomico Schools and the 21st Century Community Learning Centers STARS afterschool program will be holding their annual “Lights On Afterschool” event at the Barnes & Noble store on Route 13 North. “Lights On” is observed nationwide to honor the importance of afterschool programs and highlight the achievements of children engaged in afterschool learning activities. At 4 p.m. on this day, the Beacon Light on the Empire State Building in New York City will light up in celebration of afterschool programs all over the United States. Here in Wicomico County, STARS has exciting things planned for this year’s event: local celebrity readers, such as Mayor Ireton and WBOC-TV personalities, performances by STARS students, and face painting and bookmark making stations for the kids! There will also be light refreshments provided by Barnes & Noble, goodie bags, STARS decorations and prize drawings for adults and students.
You can participate in “Lights On” and support STARS by picking up a voucher at any participating STARS school site or in Annex 3 of the Board Office. With the voucher, a portion of your purchases at Barnes & Noble on Oct. 21, or online from Oct. 21-26. For questions or information contact the STARS office at 410-677-5287. Please come out and support your local WCBOE STARS after school program at Barnes & Noble on Thursday, Oct. 21 from 5:30-8 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 22
3rd annual Harvest Fest
Mardela Middle and High
From 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 22, the Mardela Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society and the Mardela Student Government Association will sponsor the 3rd annual Harvest Fest at Mardela Middle and High School. This event is for children fifth grade and younger (must be accompanied by an adult). There will be trick-or-treating throughout the school, a hayride which leads to a haunted forest, and entertainment in the cafeteria. The public is invited to attend. A $5 donation per child is requested. 410-677-5142.
Friday, Oct. 22
Concert by The Timmons Family Band
Pittsville Elementary and Middle
At 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 22, The Timmons Family Band will perform a benefit concert for the Pittsville Middle School Chorus in the Pittsville School cafetorium. Put on your cowboy boots and come out for a night of foot-stompin’, hand clappin’ fun. The Timmons Family Band performs in many states and Canada, participating in bluegrass festivals, church events and other venues. Group members include4 Freddie Timmons (band leader, on guitar and banjo), Kathy Timmons, his wife (vocals and guitar), Georgia Hearne, Kathy’s sister (vocals), Bryan Irwin (upright bass, guitar, vocals), Gary Weber (fiddle, mandolin, mandola, vocals), and Jim Hammond (guitar and vocals). Admission $5 adults, $3 for students 14 and under, free for children 5 and under. All proceeds benefit the Pittsville Middle School Chorus. 410-677-5811.
Friday, Oct. 22
PTA Fall Festival
North Salisbury Elementary
North Salisbury Elementary PTA will host the annual Fall Festival from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 22. There will be face painting, caricature drawings, games with prizes, cake walk, and baked goods for sale. Come on out for a fun and exciting evening for the entire family. 410-677-5807.
Friday, Oct. 29
“Trunk or Treat”
Willards Elementary PTA
The second Willards PTA Trunk or Treat will take place on the Willards Elementary bus ramp starting at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29. Vendors will be selling food starting at 5:30 p.m., and decorated trunks will arrive at 6 p.m. Trunk or Treat (Halloween Tailgating) is a safe community Halloween event. Instead of going from house to house, kids will travel from trunk to trunk in the Willards Elementary School parking lot to collect treats. (New this year: To ensure that there is enough candy for the trick-or-treaters, each Willards family has been asked to donate a bag of individually wrapped candy, which can be dropped off in the front office.) Each trunk will be decorated for the occasion – from ghoulish, ghostly SUVs to fairy tale Fords and loaded with yummy treats. Participants will vote for their favorite trunks with their spare change. Pennies, nickels, dimes – empty your pockets to declare the most “tricked out trunks.” All monies collected will be used to purchase Clorox wipes, tissues and hand sanitizer for the impending cold and flu season. Call 410-677-5819.
Saturday, Oct. 30
Applebee’s Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast Benefitting the James M. Bennett High Junior Class
Support the Junior Class (Class of 2012) at an all-you-can-eat Applebee’s Pancake Fund-raiser Breakfast from 8 -10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 30. Tickets are $6 per person for all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage and beverage (coffee, orange juice, soda and tea). The breakfast will be served at the North Salisbury Applebee’s. For tickets please contact class advisors Erin Davis (esdavis@wcboe.org) or Kathy Elliott (kelliott@wcboe.org).
Basket Raffle
Mardela High School Class of 2016
The Mardela High School Class of 2016 is selling tickets for its 2nd annual Basket Raffle. The “basket” contains gift certificates and gift cards from many local restaurants and businesses for goods and services, a Longaberger basket, a hunting trip, original watercolor by a local artist, home décor products, bath and beauty supplies, and much much more. The entire contents are included in the basket raffle and are valued at more than $4,000. Tickets are only $5 each. The drawing will take place on Dec. 13. For information please call 443-736-7948, or check with the school at 410-677-5142.
Saturday, Nov. 13
PTA Craft Show
Bennett Middle
Mark your calendar now for 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 13 and plan to get some of your holiday shopping done at the 2nd annual Bennett Middle School PTA Craft Show. The Craft Show will take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Vendor applications are now being accepted, through Oct. 29. Vendor spaces are $35 in the cafeteria and gym, or $25 hallway. Contact Bonnie Smith (BSmith@wcboe.org) or Laurie Parker (LParker@wcboe.org), or call them at 410-677-5140, for information.
Commemorative JMB T-Shirts
The Junior Class of James M. Bennett High School is selling T-shirts commemorating the new Bennett. The shirts are $15 for sizes small-XL and $17 for sizes XXLarge and XXXLarge. Please email Erin Davis (esdavis@wcboe.org) or Kathy Elliott (kelliott@wcboe.org) if you are interested. Checks payable to JMB can be mailed to the school at 300 E. College Ave., Salisbury MD 21801, or dropped off at the school. Call 410-677-5141 for information.
STARS/WCBOE Lights On Afterschool Event
Barnes & Noble
On Thursday, Oct. 21 from 5:30-8 p.m., Wicomico Schools and the 21st Century Community Learning Centers STARS afterschool program will be holding their annual “Lights On Afterschool” event at the Barnes & Noble store on Route 13 North. “Lights On” is observed nationwide to honor the importance of afterschool programs and highlight the achievements of children engaged in afterschool learning activities. At 4 p.m. on this day, the Beacon Light on the Empire State Building in New York City will light up in celebration of afterschool programs all over the United States. Here in Wicomico County, STARS has exciting things planned for this year’s event: local celebrity readers, such as Mayor Ireton and WBOC-TV personalities, performances by STARS students, and face painting and bookmark making stations for the kids! There will also be light refreshments provided by Barnes & Noble, goodie bags, STARS decorations and prize drawings for adults and students.
You can participate in “Lights On” and support STARS by picking up a voucher at any participating STARS school site or in Annex 3 of the Board Office. With the voucher, a portion of your purchases at Barnes & Noble on Oct. 21, or online from Oct. 21-26. For questions or information contact the STARS office at 410-677-5287. Please come out and support your local WCBOE STARS after school program at Barnes & Noble on Thursday, Oct. 21 from 5:30-8 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 22
3rd annual Harvest Fest
Mardela Middle and High
From 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 22, the Mardela Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society and the Mardela Student Government Association will sponsor the 3rd annual Harvest Fest at Mardela Middle and High School. This event is for children fifth grade and younger (must be accompanied by an adult). There will be trick-or-treating throughout the school, a hayride which leads to a haunted forest, and entertainment in the cafeteria. The public is invited to attend. A $5 donation per child is requested. 410-677-5142.
Friday, Oct. 22
Concert by The Timmons Family Band
Pittsville Elementary and Middle
At 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 22, The Timmons Family Band will perform a benefit concert for the Pittsville Middle School Chorus in the Pittsville School cafetorium. Put on your cowboy boots and come out for a night of foot-stompin’, hand clappin’ fun. The Timmons Family Band performs in many states and Canada, participating in bluegrass festivals, church events and other venues. Group members include4 Freddie Timmons (band leader, on guitar and banjo), Kathy Timmons, his wife (vocals and guitar), Georgia Hearne, Kathy’s sister (vocals), Bryan Irwin (upright bass, guitar, vocals), Gary Weber (fiddle, mandolin, mandola, vocals), and Jim Hammond (guitar and vocals). Admission $5 adults, $3 for students 14 and under, free for children 5 and under. All proceeds benefit the Pittsville Middle School Chorus. 410-677-5811.
Friday, Oct. 22
PTA Fall Festival
North Salisbury Elementary
North Salisbury Elementary PTA will host the annual Fall Festival from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 22. There will be face painting, caricature drawings, games with prizes, cake walk, and baked goods for sale. Come on out for a fun and exciting evening for the entire family. 410-677-5807.
Friday, Oct. 29
“Trunk or Treat”
Willards Elementary PTA
The second Willards PTA Trunk or Treat will take place on the Willards Elementary bus ramp starting at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29. Vendors will be selling food starting at 5:30 p.m., and decorated trunks will arrive at 6 p.m. Trunk or Treat (Halloween Tailgating) is a safe community Halloween event. Instead of going from house to house, kids will travel from trunk to trunk in the Willards Elementary School parking lot to collect treats. (New this year: To ensure that there is enough candy for the trick-or-treaters, each Willards family has been asked to donate a bag of individually wrapped candy, which can be dropped off in the front office.) Each trunk will be decorated for the occasion – from ghoulish, ghostly SUVs to fairy tale Fords and loaded with yummy treats. Participants will vote for their favorite trunks with their spare change. Pennies, nickels, dimes – empty your pockets to declare the most “tricked out trunks.” All monies collected will be used to purchase Clorox wipes, tissues and hand sanitizer for the impending cold and flu season. Call 410-677-5819.
Saturday, Oct. 30
Applebee’s Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast Benefitting the James M. Bennett High Junior Class
Support the Junior Class (Class of 2012) at an all-you-can-eat Applebee’s Pancake Fund-raiser Breakfast from 8 -10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 30. Tickets are $6 per person for all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage and beverage (coffee, orange juice, soda and tea). The breakfast will be served at the North Salisbury Applebee’s. For tickets please contact class advisors Erin Davis (esdavis@wcboe.org) or Kathy Elliott (kelliott@wcboe.org).
Basket Raffle
Mardela High School Class of 2016
The Mardela High School Class of 2016 is selling tickets for its 2nd annual Basket Raffle. The “basket” contains gift certificates and gift cards from many local restaurants and businesses for goods and services, a Longaberger basket, a hunting trip, original watercolor by a local artist, home décor products, bath and beauty supplies, and much much more. The entire contents are included in the basket raffle and are valued at more than $4,000. Tickets are only $5 each. The drawing will take place on Dec. 13. For information please call 443-736-7948, or check with the school at 410-677-5142.
Saturday, Nov. 13
PTA Craft Show
Bennett Middle
Mark your calendar now for 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 13 and plan to get some of your holiday shopping done at the 2nd annual Bennett Middle School PTA Craft Show. The Craft Show will take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Vendor applications are now being accepted, through Oct. 29. Vendor spaces are $35 in the cafeteria and gym, or $25 hallway. Contact Bonnie Smith (BSmith@wcboe.org) or Laurie Parker (LParker@wcboe.org), or call them at 410-677-5140, for information.
Commemorative JMB T-Shirts
The Junior Class of James M. Bennett High School is selling T-shirts commemorating the new Bennett. The shirts are $15 for sizes small-XL and $17 for sizes XXLarge and XXXLarge. Please email Erin Davis (esdavis@wcboe.org) or Kathy Elliott (kelliott@wcboe.org) if you are interested. Checks payable to JMB can be mailed to the school at 300 E. College Ave., Salisbury MD 21801, or dropped off at the school. Call 410-677-5141 for information.
Highlighted Events This Week In Wicomico Schools
Oct. 19-22
Arts Integration Event
Willards Elementary School
Throughout this school year, the students and staff of Willards Elementary will welcome several artists to share their knowledge and expertise. From Oct. 19-22, the second grade teachers and students will work with Lenore Blank Kelner in a residency program. This program will focus on the reading theme "nature walk,” reading comprehension and drama. The teachers will experience and work using a co-teaching model with Kelner as the students actively engage in the residency program. 410-677-5819.
Tuesday, Oct. 19
Unified Tennis Matches
At Wicomico High and James M. Bennett High
Wicomico’s second Unified Sports season continues Tuesday, Oct. 19 with matches at 3:30 p.m. (Mardela at Wicomico High, Parkside at James M. Bennett High). Wicomico is partnering with Special Olympics Maryland to field Unified athletic teams on which students both with and without intellectual disabilities can play and compete together. Teams will also play in the Unified Tennis State High School Invitational in late October, with teams from the western shore.
Wednesday, Oct. 20
Farm Visit to STEM Program
Bennett Middle School
On Wednesday, Oct. 20 the seventh-grade STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) students will be visited by Candy Anderson, whose husband’s family has owned Ring Farms since 1911. The farm was granted by the King of England in 1750 and the house they live in has been occupied since the 1790 census. The farm raises livestock and field crops. Anderson will be bringing cows, sheep and pigs to show the students and will be discussing daily operation of the farm and how life has changed over time with the advent of new technologies, animal science and environmental issues. She will also be bringing photographs and documents that will illustrate the history of the property to the students. The visit will begin at 9:45 and will conclude with everyone going outside to see the animals before 4th period ends at 11:15 a.m. Then, later in the week (either Thursday or Friday), STEM students will visit Greenbranch Organic Farms to learn about the workings of an organic farm. The students will tour the property and compare daily operations there to the Andersons’ farm.
Wednesdays through Nov. 10, 1-3 p.m.
“Young Athletes” Pilot Program
For Pinehurst students, at Crown Sports
As part of our continued partnership with Special Olympics Maryland, Pinehurst Elementary School is engaging in a new pilot program called "Young Athletes." This is an inclusive sports program designed for children in kindergarten and first grade. As part of their physical education program, these students will participate in organized theme-based sport activities one day per week -- each Wednesday from Oct. 13-Nov. 10 – at Crown Sports in Fruitland. The five Wednesday sessions will take place from 1-3 p.m. One of the benefits of this program is that it offers exactly what young children need.....early intervention. As a result of this early intervention, (not to mention our childhood obesity epidemic), young boys and girls will experience hands on physical activities focused on developing fundamental motor tracking and eye-hand coordination skills, fitness, socialization skills and a lifestyle of healthy habits. In addition, Young Athletes offers a community network with Crown Sports, families, and Salisbury University Elementary Physical Education majors and Adapted Physical Education majors with Dr. Dean Ravizza. Young Athletes is a win-win program for everyone - building stronger minds and bodies, stronger citizens, stronger families, and ultimately a stronger community. 410-677-5810.
Wicomico K-5 Students Offered Free Intranasal FluMist Vaccine; Consent Form Must Be Returned to School
The Wicomico County School System and the Wicomico County Health Department will be working together to offer the FluMist intranasal vaccine to Wicomico elementary students in school clinics scheduled from Oct. 21-29. The 2010-11 Influenza vaccine will contain protection against three common influenza strains, including the 2009 H1N1 strain.
Consent forms for the FluMist vaccine were sent home to elementary parents/guardians, and students whose parents/guardians signed and returned the consent form will receive the vaccination free on the day that their school’s clinic is scheduled. Check with your child’s school if you have any questions.
The schedule of school clinics is as follows:
Oct. 21 (AM): Westside Intermediate, West Salisbury, North Salisbury
Oct. 21 (PM): Northwestern, Pinehurst
Oct. 22 (AM): Pemberton, Prince Street
Oct. 22 (PM): Willards, Beaver Run
Oct. 28 (AM): East Salisbury, Delmar
Oct. 28 (PM): Fruitland Primary, Westside Primary
Oct. 29 (AM): Chipman, Fruitland Intermediate, Glen Avenue
Oct. 29 (PM): Pittsville
A parent/guardian who wants a child to receive the injectable form of the seasonal flu vaccine at the Wicomico County Health Department can call 410-543-6943.
Saturday, Oct. 23
Community Connection Day
HALO Mission, Salisbury
The HALO Mission at 119 S. Salisbury Blvd. in Salisbury will host a Community Connection Day from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 23. The event is sponsored by HALO and the Wicomico County Board of Education. Wicomico County families are invited to attend to network, learn and share. There will be opportunities to meet and talk with organizations that can assist with job searches, financial assistance, children’s services, emergency shelter and much more. Lunch will be provided free of charge. Transportation will be provided from and to the Temple Hill Motel, Booth Street Apartments, the parking lot of the Christian Shelter, and Travelers Inn in Delmar, Md. Bus runs begin at 8 a.m. and continue every hour until 2 p.m. There will be hourly door prizes, with a grand prize of a laptop computer. Children must be accompanied by an adult to register. Workshops on homelessness will be offered from 9-11 a.m. For more information please contact HALO Ministry at 410-742-9356 or info@HALOministry.org, or Jackie Deal at the Board of Education at 410-677-4549 or jdeal@wcboe.org.
Saturday, Oct. 23
Gimme Five Day
At Prince Street Elementary
Salisbury’s Promise: The Alliance for Youth will host Gimme Five Day on Saturday, Oct. 23 at Prince Street Elementary School from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. This special day is devoted to youth and to providing the 5 Promises: Caring Adults, Safe Places, Healthy Start, An Effective Education, and Opportunities to Help Others. Fun activities, food, eye screening and more are provided free of charge. For more information contact Salisbury’s Promise at 410-677-5396 or Salisburypromise@gmail.com. This event is funded in part by a grant from the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism.
Arts Integration Event
Willards Elementary School
Throughout this school year, the students and staff of Willards Elementary will welcome several artists to share their knowledge and expertise. From Oct. 19-22, the second grade teachers and students will work with Lenore Blank Kelner in a residency program. This program will focus on the reading theme "nature walk,” reading comprehension and drama. The teachers will experience and work using a co-teaching model with Kelner as the students actively engage in the residency program. 410-677-5819.
Tuesday, Oct. 19
Unified Tennis Matches
At Wicomico High and James M. Bennett High
Wicomico’s second Unified Sports season continues Tuesday, Oct. 19 with matches at 3:30 p.m. (Mardela at Wicomico High, Parkside at James M. Bennett High). Wicomico is partnering with Special Olympics Maryland to field Unified athletic teams on which students both with and without intellectual disabilities can play and compete together. Teams will also play in the Unified Tennis State High School Invitational in late October, with teams from the western shore.
Wednesday, Oct. 20
Farm Visit to STEM Program
Bennett Middle School
On Wednesday, Oct. 20 the seventh-grade STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) students will be visited by Candy Anderson, whose husband’s family has owned Ring Farms since 1911. The farm was granted by the King of England in 1750 and the house they live in has been occupied since the 1790 census. The farm raises livestock and field crops. Anderson will be bringing cows, sheep and pigs to show the students and will be discussing daily operation of the farm and how life has changed over time with the advent of new technologies, animal science and environmental issues. She will also be bringing photographs and documents that will illustrate the history of the property to the students. The visit will begin at 9:45 and will conclude with everyone going outside to see the animals before 4th period ends at 11:15 a.m. Then, later in the week (either Thursday or Friday), STEM students will visit Greenbranch Organic Farms to learn about the workings of an organic farm. The students will tour the property and compare daily operations there to the Andersons’ farm.
Wednesdays through Nov. 10, 1-3 p.m.
“Young Athletes” Pilot Program
For Pinehurst students, at Crown Sports
As part of our continued partnership with Special Olympics Maryland, Pinehurst Elementary School is engaging in a new pilot program called "Young Athletes." This is an inclusive sports program designed for children in kindergarten and first grade. As part of their physical education program, these students will participate in organized theme-based sport activities one day per week -- each Wednesday from Oct. 13-Nov. 10 – at Crown Sports in Fruitland. The five Wednesday sessions will take place from 1-3 p.m. One of the benefits of this program is that it offers exactly what young children need.....early intervention. As a result of this early intervention, (not to mention our childhood obesity epidemic), young boys and girls will experience hands on physical activities focused on developing fundamental motor tracking and eye-hand coordination skills, fitness, socialization skills and a lifestyle of healthy habits. In addition, Young Athletes offers a community network with Crown Sports, families, and Salisbury University Elementary Physical Education majors and Adapted Physical Education majors with Dr. Dean Ravizza. Young Athletes is a win-win program for everyone - building stronger minds and bodies, stronger citizens, stronger families, and ultimately a stronger community. 410-677-5810.
Wicomico K-5 Students Offered Free Intranasal FluMist Vaccine; Consent Form Must Be Returned to School
The Wicomico County School System and the Wicomico County Health Department will be working together to offer the FluMist intranasal vaccine to Wicomico elementary students in school clinics scheduled from Oct. 21-29. The 2010-11 Influenza vaccine will contain protection against three common influenza strains, including the 2009 H1N1 strain.
Consent forms for the FluMist vaccine were sent home to elementary parents/guardians, and students whose parents/guardians signed and returned the consent form will receive the vaccination free on the day that their school’s clinic is scheduled. Check with your child’s school if you have any questions.
The schedule of school clinics is as follows:
Oct. 21 (AM): Westside Intermediate, West Salisbury, North Salisbury
Oct. 21 (PM): Northwestern, Pinehurst
Oct. 22 (AM): Pemberton, Prince Street
Oct. 22 (PM): Willards, Beaver Run
Oct. 28 (AM): East Salisbury, Delmar
Oct. 28 (PM): Fruitland Primary, Westside Primary
Oct. 29 (AM): Chipman, Fruitland Intermediate, Glen Avenue
Oct. 29 (PM): Pittsville
A parent/guardian who wants a child to receive the injectable form of the seasonal flu vaccine at the Wicomico County Health Department can call 410-543-6943.
Saturday, Oct. 23
Community Connection Day
HALO Mission, Salisbury
The HALO Mission at 119 S. Salisbury Blvd. in Salisbury will host a Community Connection Day from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 23. The event is sponsored by HALO and the Wicomico County Board of Education. Wicomico County families are invited to attend to network, learn and share. There will be opportunities to meet and talk with organizations that can assist with job searches, financial assistance, children’s services, emergency shelter and much more. Lunch will be provided free of charge. Transportation will be provided from and to the Temple Hill Motel, Booth Street Apartments, the parking lot of the Christian Shelter, and Travelers Inn in Delmar, Md. Bus runs begin at 8 a.m. and continue every hour until 2 p.m. There will be hourly door prizes, with a grand prize of a laptop computer. Children must be accompanied by an adult to register. Workshops on homelessness will be offered from 9-11 a.m. For more information please contact HALO Ministry at 410-742-9356 or info@HALOministry.org, or Jackie Deal at the Board of Education at 410-677-4549 or jdeal@wcboe.org.
Saturday, Oct. 23
Gimme Five Day
At Prince Street Elementary
Salisbury’s Promise: The Alliance for Youth will host Gimme Five Day on Saturday, Oct. 23 at Prince Street Elementary School from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. This special day is devoted to youth and to providing the 5 Promises: Caring Adults, Safe Places, Healthy Start, An Effective Education, and Opportunities to Help Others. Fun activities, food, eye screening and more are provided free of charge. For more information contact Salisbury’s Promise at 410-677-5396 or Salisburypromise@gmail.com. This event is funded in part by a grant from the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism.
Medical Marijuana Talks Re-Emerge In Maryland
Maryland could soon be considering some joint relief.
Republican state Sen. David Brinkley wants to renew an effort to legalize medical marijuana in Maryland.
Brinkley said, if re-elected, he plans to reintroduce a bill that would also address the issues of providing a reliable source for marijuana rather than putting it on the black market.
A similar bill passed the state Senate during last session. A version of the bill failed in the House of Delegates.
Under current Maryland law, defendants charged with use or possession of marijuana can argue a medical need as a mitigating factor at their sentencing. But even if a medical necessity is proven, a judge can still fine a patient up to $100.
GO HERE to read more.
Area's Part-Time Job Losses Among The Nation's Worst
WASHINGTON -- While many in the Washington region have emerged fairly unscathed from the economic recession, one economic group has taken a particularly hard hit: part-time workers.
Median pay for part-time workers met double-digit losses in almost every local jurisdiction, falling 28 percent in Fairfax County in 2007 and 2008, and dropping one third for those in Howard County, according to a Washington Post analysis of the 2009 American Community Survey.
The Maryland and Virginia suburbs used to boast the highest part-time pay for women. Now, after falling $2,700 over two years to $13,500 -- the steepest drop in the country -- it's fourth. Pay for men decreased $4,300, falling from from second-highest nationally to seventh place with $18,400 median pay.
GO HERE to read more.
Median pay for part-time workers met double-digit losses in almost every local jurisdiction, falling 28 percent in Fairfax County in 2007 and 2008, and dropping one third for those in Howard County, according to a Washington Post analysis of the 2009 American Community Survey.
The Maryland and Virginia suburbs used to boast the highest part-time pay for women. Now, after falling $2,700 over two years to $13,500 -- the steepest drop in the country -- it's fourth. Pay for men decreased $4,300, falling from from second-highest nationally to seventh place with $18,400 median pay.
GO HERE to read more.
Md. Court To Weigh Emergency Rules On Foreclosures
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Maryland's highest court is scheduled to consider a proposed emergency measure to enable state courts to stop foreclosures, if documentation is found to be invalid.
The Court of Appeals on Tuesday will be weighing whether to adopt the proposal approved last week by the Maryland Standing Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure.
The proposal would give lenders 30 days to demonstrate that documents related to the foreclosure are legally sufficient.
GO HERE to read more.
The Court of Appeals on Tuesday will be weighing whether to adopt the proposal approved last week by the Maryland Standing Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure.
The proposal would give lenders 30 days to demonstrate that documents related to the foreclosure are legally sufficient.
GO HERE to read more.
O’Malley Continues To Lead Ehrlich In Latest Poll, 47% to 42%, With Few Undecided
The poll of 816 likely voters interviewed by telephone last week is the latest survey in the past month to show O’Malley pulling ahead in the race, despite the fact that Gonzales expects Republican voter turnout to be higher than usual and Democrats to turn out in fewer numbers. The margin of error is 3.5%.
Gonzales’ analysis said Ehrlich’s eight-point lead in the Baltimore suburbs (49% to 41%) “is not enough to offset O’Malley’s tally in the Washington suburbs,” where the incumbent crushes Ehrlich 65% to 25%. While Ehrlich gets 85% of Republican voters, he gets just 17% of Democrats, and that “won’t do it,” the pollster said.
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Laws Of Physics Say Cellphones Don't Cause Cancer
Cellphones don't cause cancer because they don't emit enough energy to break molecular bonds inside cells, reports Scientific American. "In fact, if the bonds holding the key molecules of life together could be broken at the energy levels of cell phones, there would be no life at all because the various natural sources of energy from the environment would prevent such bonds from ever forming in the first place."
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Justice Dept. Goes After Blue Cross Blue Shield Of Michigan
Crimefighters at the Justice Department put on their antitrust capes today, filing a lawsuit against Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. The DOJ alleges the insurance company violated antitrust laws by asking hospitals to sign contracts that precluded other insurers from offering a better discount.
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Doctors on Pharma Payroll Have Blemished Records, Limited Credentials
Look Up Your Doctor in Our "Dollars for Docs" Database
Drug companies say they hire the most-respected doctors in their fields for the critical task of teaching about the benefits and risks of their drugs. But an investigation by ProPublica uncovered hundreds of doctors on company payrolls who had been accused of professional misconduct, were disciplined by state boards or lacked credentials as researchers or specialists. Their misconduct included inappropriately prescribing drugs, providing poor care or having sex with patients. Some of the doctors had even lost their licenses.Read more »
Bad Day
Porcupine 1 - PitBull 0
A pitbull was in his backyard in southern California , minding his own business, when a porcupine invades his territory. The brave but stupid pit bull immediately challenges the porcupine!
Bad decision. .. . the porcupine won this short contest .
A vet sedated the dog and then removed a total of 1,347 quills.The dog survived and has, hopefully, learned a valuable lesson.
Now, tell me you had a bad day!!
A pitbull was in his backyard in southern California , minding his own business, when a porcupine invades his territory. The brave but stupid pit bull immediately challenges the porcupine!
Bad decision. .. . the porcupine won this short contest .
Now, tell me you had a bad day!!
Christine O'Donnell Email
There was a question as to the authenticity of the email I sent to Christine O'Donnell.
You will see it was sent on the 7th. Mr. Coons' invitation was sent a few minutes later. His campaign staff returned my calls in a matter of hours.
Thank you,
Ryan Stevenson.
MSP Press Release
Incident: CDS Violation
Suspect #1: Driver
Charles Quincy Waters 4th 27yoa B/M Hebron, MD
Charges:
Possession of CDS (Marijuana)
Possession of CDS Paraphernalia
Suspect #2:Passenger
Dwight Leroy Woods Jr 27yoa B/M Salisbury, MD
Charges:
Possession of CDS (Marijuana)
Possession of CDS Paraphernalia
Possession with intent to Distribute
Assault (2nd)
Resist Arrest
Possession of CDS within School Zone.
BRIEF RESUME: On 10/18/2010, at 1759 hours, a Trooper from the Salisbury Barrack conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding. Suspect #2 was asked to exit the vehicle and upon talking with the trooper the suspect pushed the Trooper to flee the area. After a struggle, Suspect #2 fled on foot and was later captured by the Trooper in a wooded area behind Westside Elementary School. Suspect #2 was found in possession of numerous baggies of suspected Marijuana packaged for resell. During a search of the vehicle more suspected Marijuana was recovered and Suspect #1 was arrested. The suspects were transported to Wicomico County Detention Center for processing.
Suspect #1: Driver
Charles Quincy Waters 4th 27yoa B/M Hebron, MD
Charges:
Possession of CDS (Marijuana)
Possession of CDS Paraphernalia
Suspect #2:Passenger
Dwight Leroy Woods Jr 27yoa B/M Salisbury, MD
Charges:
Possession of CDS (Marijuana)
Possession of CDS Paraphernalia
Possession with intent to Distribute
Assault (2nd)
Resist Arrest
Possession of CDS within School Zone.
BRIEF RESUME: On 10/18/2010, at 1759 hours, a Trooper from the Salisbury Barrack conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding. Suspect #2 was asked to exit the vehicle and upon talking with the trooper the suspect pushed the Trooper to flee the area. After a struggle, Suspect #2 fled on foot and was later captured by the Trooper in a wooded area behind Westside Elementary School. Suspect #2 was found in possession of numerous baggies of suspected Marijuana packaged for resell. During a search of the vehicle more suspected Marijuana was recovered and Suspect #1 was arrested. The suspects were transported to Wicomico County Detention Center for processing.
Boy Scout Troop 176 Chili Dinner
Our Boy Scout Troop 176 is having a Chili dinner on Sat November 6, 2010 3pm until 7pm. We will be serving traditional red chili as well as a white chicken chili with the sides of cornbread and beverages. A seperate dessert table will be available. This sit down event is taking place at the Rotary Scout House on Riverside Dr or take outs are also available. Carry outswill also be available from the Redmens pavillon location on Rt 13. Hot dogs will also be available for children who do not like chili. We were hoping to get this advertised on your website. I've included a photo of the ticket for informational purposes. The cost is $6 for adults and $3 for children for ALL YOU CAN EAT!
Scouting is such an important part in the lives of the young men that are involved and they are our leaders of tomorrow. The fundraisers that we do are to help offset the costs of equipment and other expenses to make sure that very young man that wants to participate gets the opportunity.
Anyone needing tickets or directions to the event can contact me at 176_CHILI_DINNER@COMCAST.NET
As always, Thank You for your support and the support of the community.
Co-Chair,
Larry Jones
Divorce Insurance On The Rise
Not only does it exist...more people are buying it! The insurance can be bought while a couple is already married.
Mayor's Neighborhood Roundtable Meeting Today
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY LEADERS SUPPORT O'MALLEY IN NEW VIDEO
Baltimore, MD (October 18, 2010) -- Top leaders in Prince George's County are rallying behind Governor Martin O'Malley in a new web video produced by the O'Malley-Brown campaign. In the video, filmed this morning at the Prince George's County Annual Ploughman and Fisherman Unity Breakfast, County Executive Jack Johnson, State's Attorney Glenn Ivey, Delegates Derrick Davis and Michael Vaughn, and Congresswoman Donna Edwards speak about Governor O'Malley's record of supporting Prince George's County in the areas of education, public safety, minority-owned businesses, and investing in community institutions like Prince George's Hospital.
The O'Malley administration invested $4.1 billion in Prince George's County public schools--a $1.1 billion increase over Bob Ehrlich--and increased school construction investments in the county by 67 percent. Since 2005, in Prince George's County, the number of Advanced Placements taken by students increased by 138%, while the number of exams with college mastery scores have increased by 50%. From 2006 to 2009, Prince George's County had a 19.9% reduction in its violent crime rate and a 15.7% reduction in its total crime rate. The O'Malley-Brown administration invested $39 million in Prince George's Community Hospital, compared to only $10 million under the previous administration.
This weekend the Washington Post reported on the importance of Prince George's County to the Maryland governor's race. The county is home to 401,125 Democrats--more than any other Maryland jurisdiction--according to the paper.
CLINTON RALLY PRESS SIGN-UP
Baltimore, MD -- Members of the media wishing to attend Thursday's rally with President Clinton in Baltimore should sign up at the following link:
WHAT: Rally with President Clinton
WHERE: Federal Hill Park, Baltimore
WHEN: Thursday, October 21. Gates open to media at 2PM. General admission at 3PM.
O’Malley Tax Commission Kicks Into Gear
Annapolis – The Bob Ehrlich for Maryland campaign released the following statement today from Communications Director Henry Fawell after reports surfaced that Governor Martin O’Malley’s tax commission will convene four meetings after the election, beginning just one week after Election Day. The Commission plans to vote on its report as early as November 16th.
“Governor O’Malley refuses to be honest with Marylanders about his intentions to raise their taxes again if he’s reelected. News that his tax commission will reconvene immediately after the election and issue a final report in December tells us what Martin O’Malley won’t: He believes that government can tax its way out of every problem it creates. Bob Ehrlich knows we can do better and will be honest with Marylanders about his plans. He will lower the tax burden on families and small business owners to grow jobs and will hold the line on government spending. The difference is clear: Bob Ehrlich has leveled with Marylanders about his intentions, Martin O’Malley has not.”
Bob Ehrlich To Receive Endorsement Of The Maryland FOP
On Tuesday, October 19th Bob Ehrlich will receive the Maryland FOP endorsement due to his continued support of Maryland’s Law Enforcement Officers and the great regard he has for the men and women who risk their lives to protect Maryland. Bob Ehrlich knows public safety is one of the primary functions of government and he will always fight to keep Maryland safe.