DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Magnitude 6.9 Earthquake In The Gulf Of California
Date-Time:
* 21 Oct 2010 17:53:14 UTC
* 21 Oct 2010 11:53:14 near epicenter
* 21 Oct 2010 12:53:14 standard time in your timezone
Location 24.843N 109.171W
Depth 10 km
Distances:
* 105 km (65 miles) S (191 degrees) of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico
* 106 km (66 miles) SSW (210 degrees) of Gabriel Leyva Solano, Sinaloa, Mexico
* 107 km (66 miles) SSW (199 degrees) of Juan José Ríos, Sinaloa, Mexico
* 1147 km (713 miles) SE (136 degrees) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
(USGS Event page)
MIKULSKI REFUSES TO DEBATE ERIC WARGOTZ
Dr. Eric Wargotz, candidate for U.S. Senate in Maryland, today released the following statement on Barbara Mikulski’s refusal to accept any debates:
“I don’t know if it’s because her record is indefensible or because she just doesn’t care anymore, but either way, Mikulski’s unwillingness to engage intellectually with Maryland citizens is troubling. Her refusal to debate is unfortunate but not surprising given she led the charge against government transparency. We sincerely hope Barbara Mikulski will change her mind on debates, just as she changed it on protecting jobs for Maryland families, rationed health care for seniors and many other issues where she sided with special interests over her constituents.
Several media outlets, most notably MPT, have expressed interest in hosting debates. Sadly, after multiple communications between our campaigns, Senator Mikulski refuses to agree on anything that would involve any direct interaction between the two candidates.”
Chief Duncan & Officer Ridley
Joe,
Here's a New York Times link to findings.
Ridley, a Mt Vernon officer was off duty and attempting to assist other uniformed officers of another agency when he was shot by them. He was not in Mt Vernon at the time. Officer Edwards was an off duty NYPD officer shot in NYC in another friendly-fire situation around the same era.
Doesn't appear the new chief, or her previous agency, was responsible. In fact, think she didn't make chief until after Ridley's death.
Other thoughts on the appointment:
She is regionally a 'local' for those who attach importance to that; Dover roots and an OC seasonal officer, so it's a homecoming of sorts. Has sibling living in Berlin so she may well be abreast of the situation in Salisbury.
Has a high level of training; JD degree and FBI training. Would have collaborated extensively with NYPD since Mt Vernon abuts da Bronx. Would have participated/seen Guiliani's crackdown of the minor stuff that sets the stage for the bigger stuff.
Mt Vernon is just shy of 70K population jammed into 4.4 sq miles; 70% minority of one background or another.
She supervised @ 250 staff.
Clearly she was no better than 2nd in the mayor's selection process, if rumor is fact; we're probably better off for that error on his part.
With all respect for Acting Chief Barkley, who I do not know, he may be the 'victim' of less career preparation on his part coupled with whatever taint working for Webster may have left. I'm not negative about him at all, but once the decision to look beyond promoting him was made he ran the risk of dropping down or out of the process as resumes arrived.
With all respect to Lt. Leatherbury, who I do not know, his career has certainly benefited from his father's efforts and legacy; MSP patrol activities normally are more spread out and I believe barracks have far fewer officers than SPD; and, he is active in one of the political parties, which leaves me a bit squishy about having a mayor and chief with politics as a side dish to regular business.
Re: Webster; having personally hired many and fired a few across the decades, think his removal was handled pretty adroitly and in a cost effective fashion. First, he was clearly instructed, and when he chafed was documented and written up; he went away pretty handily afterward. Point for Ireton (not that he's scored many points).
Regards,
An Interested Reader
Here's a New York Times link to findings.
Ridley, a Mt Vernon officer was off duty and attempting to assist other uniformed officers of another agency when he was shot by them. He was not in Mt Vernon at the time. Officer Edwards was an off duty NYPD officer shot in NYC in another friendly-fire situation around the same era.
Doesn't appear the new chief, or her previous agency, was responsible. In fact, think she didn't make chief until after Ridley's death.
Other thoughts on the appointment:
She is regionally a 'local' for those who attach importance to that; Dover roots and an OC seasonal officer, so it's a homecoming of sorts. Has sibling living in Berlin so she may well be abreast of the situation in Salisbury.
Has a high level of training; JD degree and FBI training. Would have collaborated extensively with NYPD since Mt Vernon abuts da Bronx. Would have participated/seen Guiliani's crackdown of the minor stuff that sets the stage for the bigger stuff.
Mt Vernon is just shy of 70K population jammed into 4.4 sq miles; 70% minority of one background or another.
She supervised @ 250 staff.
Clearly she was no better than 2nd in the mayor's selection process, if rumor is fact; we're probably better off for that error on his part.
With all respect for Acting Chief Barkley, who I do not know, he may be the 'victim' of less career preparation on his part coupled with whatever taint working for Webster may have left. I'm not negative about him at all, but once the decision to look beyond promoting him was made he ran the risk of dropping down or out of the process as resumes arrived.
With all respect to Lt. Leatherbury, who I do not know, his career has certainly benefited from his father's efforts and legacy; MSP patrol activities normally are more spread out and I believe barracks have far fewer officers than SPD; and, he is active in one of the political parties, which leaves me a bit squishy about having a mayor and chief with politics as a side dish to regular business.
Re: Webster; having personally hired many and fired a few across the decades, think his removal was handled pretty adroitly and in a cost effective fashion. First, he was clearly instructed, and when he chafed was documented and written up; he went away pretty handily afterward. Point for Ireton (not that he's scored many points).
Regards,
An Interested Reader
Holiday Inn Banquet Food Just Horrible
A Comment In Need Of A Post
"I love how you say firemen in the sfd are overpaid but truth be hold they are the lowest paid in the state. It's a disgrace how low the men and women get paid in that department. You are asking these men and women to place their lives in danger to save your family and personal belongings. To repay them you give them a sub par salary and benefits. Most of them have to work 2 jobs to survive. You don't call your neighbor when you are having a heart attack. You call the trained men and women of the sfd. In every other place in this state the people support the firemen and pay them a reasonable salary because they know any day they may die in the line of duty. The people of Salisbury complain and cry and shoe no support. It's no wonder why they quit and gp somewhere else. It's no wonder why these great people are disgruntled. You people are a joke and have no idea what kind of good service you have. Maybe you'll find out when your house is on fire and the sfd comes to put it out... Even yours mr albero."
New Salisbury Police Chief Duncan On Mt. Vernon Police Shootings
POLICE ON POLICE SHOOTINGS
BARBARA DUNCAN
CHIEF OF POLICE
CITY OF MOUNT VERNON, NEW YORK
"Police Officers Are Lackadaisy And I'm Going To Change That"
Folks, is this guy in the real world or does he actually believe the leaders of all these local agencies have no control over officers who allegedly refuse to show up for court dates?
All I can tell you within this particular post is that Maciarello spanked Mitchell once again. I'll explain more in my next post.
Washington Examiner Endorses Ehrlich
Excerpts from their endorsement below:
“The main burden of Martin O'Malley's highly regressive 20 percent sales tax falls -- as such taxes always do -- most heavily on poor and middle-class residents and small businesses. Ehrlich promises to correct this unfair situation…
“Because O’Malley is beholden to Maryland's powerful public sector unions, he has done nothing to avert the state's rapidly approaching collision with the $35 billion in unfunded pension and health care liabilities that will turn Maryland into a Hotel California if nothing is done…
“On Maryland's worsening traffic congestion, recall that it was Ehrlich who overcame a hostile Democratic state legislature to get the Intercounty Connector across the finish line after 40 years of dithering in Annapolis…
“Ehrlich's embrace of charter schools offers parents and students a way out. Voters who care about Maryland children should, too…
“Most amazingly, however, is the fact that O'Malley defends Maryland as a sanctuary state, and he calls the flood of illegal immigrants coming here ‘new Americans.’ Ehrlich's scathing retort – ‘If somebody breaks into my house, is that a new member of my family that night?’ -- clearly defined his most basic difference with O'Malley. Voters should return Ehrlich to Annapolis to end this nonsense.”
Read more at the Washington Examiner: http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/Examiner-endorsement_-Ehrlich-for-Maryland-governor-1273831-105356893.html#ixzz130HjpjpD
New independent Poll: Harris 53, Kratovil 42
New Poll: Frank Kratovil Down By 11 In MD, Dems Call Opponent 'Retread'
By John McArdle
CQ-Roll Call
October 21, 2010 1:06 PM http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/eyeon2010/2010/10/new-poll-frank-kratovil-down-b.html
With two weeks to go before Election Day, freshman Rep. Frank Kratovil (D-Md.) must overcome a double digit deficit if he wants to see a second term, according to a new Monmouth University poll released Thursday.
The Monmouth survey, which was in the field Oct. 16 to 19, showed Republican state Sen. Andy Harris ahead 53 percent to 42 percent with 5 percent undecided. The poll of 637 likely 1st district voters had a 3.9 point margin of error.
In their 2008 race, Kratovil earned a narrow victory against Harris by running up his margin on Maryland's Eastern Shore and using that lead to balance out the state Senator's strong showing on the Western Shore. Thursday's Monmouth poll showed Harris leading by 6 points on the Eastern Shore and by 16 points on the Western Shore -- not a good sign.
"Prior to 2008, this seat was safely in the Republican fold. It looks like it will revert to form in 2010," Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute, wrote in his polling memo on Thursday.
But at a breakfast event hosted by the Christian Science Monitor on Thursday, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman Chris Van Hollen, who also hails from Maryland, ticked off several reasons why he believes Kratovil will be coming back for the 112th Congress.
"Number one, Frank Kratovil is a head by a few points. Number two, the early returns are positive. Number three, Andy Harris is the same guy who lost last time so he's a retread. He hasn't changed his extreme views," Van Hollen said. "I think people are looking for someone who is interested in solving problems not on an ideological crusade."
The DCCC has so far spent over $1.1 million on independent expenditures in the 1st district this cycle. The National Republican Congressional Committee is approaching half a million in spending in the district.
By John McArdle
CQ-Roll Call
October 21, 2010 1:06 PM http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/eyeon2010/2010/10/new-poll-frank-kratovil-down-b.html
With two weeks to go before Election Day, freshman Rep. Frank Kratovil (D-Md.) must overcome a double digit deficit if he wants to see a second term, according to a new Monmouth University poll released Thursday.
The Monmouth survey, which was in the field Oct. 16 to 19, showed Republican state Sen. Andy Harris ahead 53 percent to 42 percent with 5 percent undecided. The poll of 637 likely 1st district voters had a 3.9 point margin of error.
In their 2008 race, Kratovil earned a narrow victory against Harris by running up his margin on Maryland's Eastern Shore and using that lead to balance out the state Senator's strong showing on the Western Shore. Thursday's Monmouth poll showed Harris leading by 6 points on the Eastern Shore and by 16 points on the Western Shore -- not a good sign.
"Prior to 2008, this seat was safely in the Republican fold. It looks like it will revert to form in 2010," Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute, wrote in his polling memo on Thursday.
But at a breakfast event hosted by the Christian Science Monitor on Thursday, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman Chris Van Hollen, who also hails from Maryland, ticked off several reasons why he believes Kratovil will be coming back for the 112th Congress.
"Number one, Frank Kratovil is a head by a few points. Number two, the early returns are positive. Number three, Andy Harris is the same guy who lost last time so he's a retread. He hasn't changed his extreme views," Van Hollen said. "I think people are looking for someone who is interested in solving problems not on an ideological crusade."
The DCCC has so far spent over $1.1 million on independent expenditures in the 1st district this cycle. The National Republican Congressional Committee is approaching half a million in spending in the district.
You Have Got To Love The New Policies From The New Fire Chief In Salisbury
You have to wonder, does the new Chief have OCD? Is there a Parade going on somewhere I don't know about? Oh sure, you could argue that these overpaid Firefighters are paying for these services on their own but do YOU really believe that.
Now I know some will come back and say, why were you so nice last week and now you're attacking the SFD again. I'm not attacking anyone. This was sent in to Salisbury News by a concerned taxpayer. The SFD has every right to come back here and defend their position. I also happen to know that one of their vehicles is back in the repair shop TODAY on Northwood Drive. That citizen wondered if it was the same one that was in there a few months ago for a complete new motor.
If YOU the taxpayer are in fact paying for this, well, it's a smack in your face. Are we to expect an outside company to come in next to wash and wax the Fire Trucks? See said in the past, we don't have a banquet hall in the new Fire Station because we're not cooks and waiters. Well, your not car detailers either. Is that your next excuse?
Salisbury’s New Police Chief – A Woman Alone
While I wish Salisbury’s new police chief, Barbara Duncan, all of the success in the world I have to admit that I’m a bit sorry for her. How would you like moving to a new job KNOWING that you can’t count on your boss for any loyalty or support?Short and sweet (bittersweet?), those are the facts. Since Jim Ireton’s move into the Mayor’s office we have seen one debacle after another regarding the leadership of the Salisbury Police Department:
- Ireton lacked the courage to tackle an insubordinate and unpopular police chief.
- Ireton appointed a replacement (after allowing the former chief to extort the taxpayers) and repeatedly claimed that he “had the job for as long as he wants it.”
- After his own appointed interim chief applied for the permanent position, Ireton put forward TWO different individuals to the City Council. Not one was the man who “had the job for as long as he wants it.”
- After finally getting a permanent chief approved by council, Ireton now has argued that he didn’t really appoint the new chief.
READ MORE …
Vincent Family Endorses Maciarello
Sam would want what is best for the State's Attorney's Office -- which is to elect a state's attorney with honesty, integrity and a passion for justice. As Sam's twin brother, I know Sam was a "law and order" prosecutor. His passion for justice, his work ethic and sense of fairness set him apart.
I've talked with Matt Maciarello to understand his vision. Maciarello best represents the qualities Sam encompassed. He understands the value of crime prevention and recognizes the need to effectively concentrate efforts and resources on gangs, drug dealers and violent criminals.
Maciarello has met with prosecutors, law enforcement and local attorneys to understand the real issues and to build a more cohesive network to stem the spiral of crime.
The race for state's attorney can't be based on party affiliation or age; it must be based on moral character, vision, leadership and a passion to pursue vigorous and fair prosecution of criminal cases, with a commitment to serve as an advocate for the rights of all victims.
The Vincent family joins Sheriff Mike Lewis and the Wicomico County Fraternal Order of Police in endorsing Maciarello. The safety and well-being of our community depends on your vote.
Carl Vincent
Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign
Tomorrow morning the Salvation Army will host their annual breakfast to kick things off. What's needed most, not your money but your time. Volunteers are needed in multiple locations and tomorrow Salisbury News will announce something very special for those businesses kind enough to donate an entire day to ring the bell. Several have already signed up and new ones have already come on board. One business, (we'll expose tomorrow) has already signed up to cover one location for 12 days!!!!
As many of you know, Salisbury News is a big supporter of the Salvation Army, as is WBOC, WMDT and The Daily Times. Once you join us and experience how special it is ringing the bell and meeting so many wonderful people along the way, you'll instantly become addicted.
We'll provide more detailed information tomorrow on how you can get involved, who to contact and what locations will be available.
Advertise With Salisbury News
For $100.00 a month you can reach the same audience WBOC, WMDT and The Daily Times reaches, if not much more. We're not hammering our advertisers for an ad that can cost you $600.00 for ONE DAY! You get an entire month of advertising for only $100.00 and that includes a link back to your Website.
Just take a look at the businesses who chose to run an ad with us and you'll quickly see, none of them are fly by night businesses. They are stable businesses within our community who know they're getting the biggest bang for their buck.
When these businesses came on board, they didn't know Salisbury News was taking their advertising dollars and paying it forward to non profit organizations. They got on board because you and everyone else out there knows, everyone goes to Salisbury News, therefore everyone sees the ads.
There's only so many people on the Shore that have Internet access. Can the MSM claim they have more traffic than Salisbury News, of course they can. However, one thing I can assure you of is this. They're NOT getting more LOCAL traffic than Salisbury News and Salisbury News prides itself on unique hits, not page views. Salisbury News doesn't play the game that others do by having our page refresh every 15 seconds to make it look like we're getting more hits.
Our goal is to deliver our advertisers LOCAL traffic and not mainly Google Search hits from old articles, like the MSM does. If you want to get the biggest bang for your buck in this economy, in hard times, get on board with Salisbury News. The $5,000.00 Donation we made to the Salvation Army and giving back to our community is just the beginning.
If you're interested in advertising with Salisbury News contact me at, alberobutzo@wmconnect.com. We can have your ad up within seconds.
Debate Round Three: Ehrlich Wins…Again
Leaders Lead, Politicians Placate
ANNAPOLIS – The Bob Ehrlich for Maryland campaign released the following statement from Communications Director Henry Fawell regarding today’s debate and Governor O’Malley’s latest attempt to misconstrue his failed legacy of governing throughout the state, including his eight years as Mayor of Baltimore City.
“Today’s debate solidified that there is only one candidate the people of Maryland can trust to be honest about Maryland’s challenges. It is no secret that Governor O’Malley doesn’t like to talk about his years as Mayor of Baltimore City. Today, he continued to evade questions about his unacceptable tactic of arresting innocent City residents and failed legacy as governor. Whether it was the thousands of innocent people he arrested to ‘save lives,’ or the children in failing schools whom he deprived of their constitutional rights, Martin O’Malley always puts his personal career over the best interests of Marylanders.
“The time has come for strong leadership that favors concrete actions instead of empty clichés and questionable statistics. Bob Ehrlich proved again today that he is the only candidate in this race willing to deliver the truth to Marylanders about job losses, tax increase, and big spending.”
Delmar Christmas Parade
2010
DELMAR
CHRISTMAS PARADE
Sat. December 11th @ 2pm
(Rain date – Sun. Dec. 12th – same time)
PARTICIPATION IS FREE!
TROPHIES WILL BE AWARDED!
For a parade application:
Call the Chamber voicemail at 302-846-3336, pick one up from Delmar Town Hall, or download from the Chamber website at http://www.delmar-chamberofcommerce.com/.
Application deadline is Dec. 8th !
Theme: “What Christmas Means to Me”
Parade sponsored by
The Greater Delmar Chamber of CommerceColleges Are Now Hindering Entrepreneural Spirit
Joe:
Read the 5th paragraph whereby the billionaire says 'that colleges - like government - are hindering entrepreneural spirit'. Universities are costing taxpayers more than we benefit.
This is exactly what you have been saying all along and I agree.
The American Dream Starts @ Your Library
WHAT: Library awarded grant from ALA and Dollar General
WHO: English language learners
WHEN: now
WHERE: at your nearest library location
SALISBURY, MD – October 21, 2010 – Wicomico Public Library is one of 75 public libraries in 24 states that has been selected by the American Library Association (ALA) to receive a $5,000 grant as part of “The American Dream Starts @ your library®” literacy initiative. This initiative is funded by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation.
For more than a century, public libraries have been a cornerstone of the American Dream, providing equal access to information of all kinds. Libraries are among the first American institutions immigrants turn to for help in learning how to read, write and speak English.
The Library is using the funds to improve outreach efforts in the community. Information about library services for people who are learning English is being translated into five languages and is being distributed to schools, adult education classes, local service agencies, and churches. All library branches in the county have access to telephone translation service to help communicate with customers, access to online classes in English and citizenship, and access to online services in many languages.
Open house programs featuring library tours and online service demonstrations will be scheduled starting in January.
Wicomico Public Library: Supporting Learning, Building Community, Enriching Lives!
Student Hit By Car Before School
"Bennett student hit by a car crossing College Ave this morning before school". That's all we have on this so far.
For Some, Jobless Benefits Trump A Job
Work sometimes pays less than benefits in such a weak job market
You know the economy has become truly screwy when it pays more to collect jobless benefits than to get an actual job.
The economy is so weak and jobs are so scarce that some people are finding that it isn’t worth it to work. These workers say that’s because the only jobs available are part-time or low-wage gigs that would not only be a big step down from their previous careers but also would not even pay enough to cover their expenses.
About 8 million people are now collecting some form of unemployment aid, but how much they take home varies widely depending on what state they live in and how much they made previously. In Massachusetts, for example, the maximum benefit is $943 per week, including an allowance for dependents, while in Mississippi it is just $235 a week.
In August, the average weekly benefit was $293.54, according to U.S. Department of Labor. On average, unemployment pays about 47 percent of what people were making before they lost their jobs, according to the department's latest data from 2009.
GO HERE to read more.
Dear Tide
I am writing to say what an excellent product you have.
I've used it all of my married life, as my Mom always told me it was the best.
Now that I am in my fifties I find it even better!
In fact, about a month ago, I spilled some red wine on my new white blouse.
My inconsiderate and uncaring husband started to belittle me about how clumsy I was, and generally started becoming a pain in the neck.
One thing led to another and somehow I ended up with his blood on my new white blouse as well!
I grabbed my bottle of Tide with bleach alternative and to my surprise and satisfaction, all of the stains came out!
In fact, the stains came out so well the detectives who came by yesterday told me that the DNA tests on my blouse were negative and then my attorney called and said that I was no longer considered a suspect in the disappearance of my husband.
What a relief!
Going through menopause is bad enough without being a murder suspect!
I thank you, once again, for having a great product.
Well, gotta go, I have to write to the Hefty Bag people.
Study: Women Are More Charitable Than Men
'Women have been incredibly generous ... (they) are the conduit for change on the planet,' charity fundraiser says
SEATTLE — Women across nearly every income level gave significantly more to charity than men — nearly twice as much in some cases — according to a study by the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.
Nonprofits have long suspected that women were the driving forces behind many of the gifts they receive, but they haven't had much proof.
But the results of this study are so decisive and consistent, they can stop wondering, said Debra Mesch, director of the university's Women's Philanthropy Institute.
The study offered several factors the researchers thought contributed to the growing generosity of women: More women are working and their incomes have grown, more have college degrees that yield greater earning power, and the percentage of women who make more money than their working husbands is now about 26 percent.
The study released Thursday found women give more in every income bracket except one: Those with incomes of between $23,509 and $43,500.
GO HERE to read more.
Election 2010: Senate Balance Of Power
New polling in West Virginia now moved that senate race to Leans Republican from Toss-Up in the Rasmussen Reports Election 2010 Balance of Power rankings.
Kentucky moved earlier this week to Leans Republican from Solid Republican.
Current projections suggest that the Democrats would hold 48 seats after Election Day while the Republicans would hold 47. Five states are in the Toss-Up category (California, Colorado, Illinois, Nevada, and Washington). All five Toss-Ups are seats currently held by Democrats.
Republicans have the edge in four Democratic-held Senate seats--Arkansas, Indiana, North Dakota, and Pennsylvania.
At the moment, no Republican-held seats appear headed for the Democratic column.
Rasmussen Reports
Kentucky moved earlier this week to Leans Republican from Solid Republican.
Current projections suggest that the Democrats would hold 48 seats after Election Day while the Republicans would hold 47. Five states are in the Toss-Up category (California, Colorado, Illinois, Nevada, and Washington). All five Toss-Ups are seats currently held by Democrats.
Republicans have the edge in four Democratic-held Senate seats--Arkansas, Indiana, North Dakota, and Pennsylvania.
At the moment, no Republican-held seats appear headed for the Democratic column.
Rasmussen Reports
CBS News Reporter Aims At Jerusalem's City Of David
CBS television network anchor Lesley Stahl is up in arms over Jerusalem’s Silwan neighborhood – known to Jews as Shiloach, and home to the City of David archaeological excavations. The reporter from the long-running Sunday evening “60 Minutes” program narrated a segment this week on the City of David, produced by Shachar Bar-On.
During the segment, Stahl worked hard to cast aspersions on the validity of the archaeological findings in the City of David excavations and the unity of the city, and to delegitimize the presence of Jewish families in the area. The Jewish families are in houses bought by Jews, many of them Yemenites, before the creation of the State of Israel.
Describing a recent rock attack which ended badly when two of the young Arab rock throwers were hit by the car they had targeted as it swerved to avoid running over another young attacker, Stahl noted incidents in Silwan had “become violent.” Her comments, subtly editorialized, were carefully slanted to guide the viewer towards a Palestinian Authority viewpoint.
Stahl also claimed there was no proof that the City of David archaeological excavations were really connected to the Biblical King David. “But for all the talk of King David, one thing is glaringly missing here at the City of David,” she told the City of David Foundation’s director of development, Doron Spielman. “There’s actually no evidence of David, right?”
She also bluntly charged Israel with using the archaeological excavations as a political tool to indoctrinate IDF troops. The journalist referred to the “scores and scores of soldiers coming through” the underground tunnel through which King David sneaked into Jerusalem to conquer the city.
“There’s an implicit message that because David conquered the city for the Jews back then, Jerusalem belongs to the Jews today,” she observed.
Spielman explained that such tours are part of the soldiers’ “cultural day” in order to help them understand what they are fighting for. “When we bring them here, they understand that they’re not just fighting for today – they actually represent the return of the Jewish people to Israel after thousands of years.”
Stahl shot back: “So archaeology is being used as a political tool… I mean, I hate to use the word, but indoctrination, almost.”
More from INN
During the segment, Stahl worked hard to cast aspersions on the validity of the archaeological findings in the City of David excavations and the unity of the city, and to delegitimize the presence of Jewish families in the area. The Jewish families are in houses bought by Jews, many of them Yemenites, before the creation of the State of Israel.
Describing a recent rock attack which ended badly when two of the young Arab rock throwers were hit by the car they had targeted as it swerved to avoid running over another young attacker, Stahl noted incidents in Silwan had “become violent.” Her comments, subtly editorialized, were carefully slanted to guide the viewer towards a Palestinian Authority viewpoint.
Stahl also claimed there was no proof that the City of David archaeological excavations were really connected to the Biblical King David. “But for all the talk of King David, one thing is glaringly missing here at the City of David,” she told the City of David Foundation’s director of development, Doron Spielman. “There’s actually no evidence of David, right?”
She also bluntly charged Israel with using the archaeological excavations as a political tool to indoctrinate IDF troops. The journalist referred to the “scores and scores of soldiers coming through” the underground tunnel through which King David sneaked into Jerusalem to conquer the city.
“There’s an implicit message that because David conquered the city for the Jews back then, Jerusalem belongs to the Jews today,” she observed.
Spielman explained that such tours are part of the soldiers’ “cultural day” in order to help them understand what they are fighting for. “When we bring them here, they understand that they’re not just fighting for today – they actually represent the return of the Jewish people to Israel after thousands of years.”
Stahl shot back: “So archaeology is being used as a political tool… I mean, I hate to use the word, but indoctrination, almost.”
More from INN
AP-GfK Poll: Likely Voters Ready To Embrace GOP
All signs point to huge Republican victories in two weeks, with the GOP now leading Democrats on virtually every measure in an Associated Press-GfK poll of people likely to vote in the first major elections of Barack Obama's presidency.
In the final survey before Election Day, likely voters say the GOP would do a better job than Democrats on handling the economy, creating jobs and running the government.
Most also think the country's headed in the wrong direction. More than half disapprove of Obama's job performance. And even more don't like the Democratic-controlled Congress.
"If we get some new blood in there who will do what the people want, maybe this can get turned around," said Sharon Klawender, 70, who lives in rural Kingston in Michigan, one of the most economically troubled states. She hopes Republicans will "get things back under control."More here
[Showing up to vote is the key. Will you be a part of this historic election day? It will surely be one to remember! -- Editor]
In the final survey before Election Day, likely voters say the GOP would do a better job than Democrats on handling the economy, creating jobs and running the government.
Most also think the country's headed in the wrong direction. More than half disapprove of Obama's job performance. And even more don't like the Democratic-controlled Congress.
"If we get some new blood in there who will do what the people want, maybe this can get turned around," said Sharon Klawender, 70, who lives in rural Kingston in Michigan, one of the most economically troubled states. She hopes Republicans will "get things back under control."More here
[Showing up to vote is the key. Will you be a part of this historic election day? It will surely be one to remember! -- Editor]
Obama To Push Bill That Would End ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ In Lame Duck Congress
In the lame duck session of Congress, which follows the Nov. 2 elections to when the new Congress is sworn in on Jan. 3, 2011, President Barack Obama will push the Senate to pass a bill that includes an amendment to end the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy that prevents homosexuals from openly serving in the military, according to White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs.
While “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) is a directive in Defense Department rules, it stems from a federal law (10 U.S.C. 654) enacted by Congress in 1993, which prohibits homosexuals from serving in the military. Under DADT, military officials are not supposed to ask, and soldiers are not supposed to disclose whether they are homosexual.
The House passed a Defense bill in May that includes an amendment that would repeal most elements of 10 U.S.C. 654 and thereby allow the Defense Department to eliminate the DADT policy. That bill must be passed by the Senate, however, and then signed by the president to become law.
Gibbs said President Obama plans to lobby for the bill’s passage in the lame duck session, the same Congress where Democrats (and two Independents) hold a 59-seat majority in the Senate.
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While “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) is a directive in Defense Department rules, it stems from a federal law (10 U.S.C. 654) enacted by Congress in 1993, which prohibits homosexuals from serving in the military. Under DADT, military officials are not supposed to ask, and soldiers are not supposed to disclose whether they are homosexual.
The House passed a Defense bill in May that includes an amendment that would repeal most elements of 10 U.S.C. 654 and thereby allow the Defense Department to eliminate the DADT policy. That bill must be passed by the Senate, however, and then signed by the president to become law.
Gibbs said President Obama plans to lobby for the bill’s passage in the lame duck session, the same Congress where Democrats (and two Independents) hold a 59-seat majority in the Senate.
More
Senators Raise Security Concerns Over Chinese Telecom Deal Plan
A bipartisan group of lawmakers wrote Federal Communications Commission chairman Julius Genachowski on Tuesday seeking assurances about the security of the U.S. communications grid in light of a proposed deal between Sprint Nextel, Cricket and two China-based telecom firms.
Sens. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.), Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) along with Rep. Sue Myrick (R-N.C.) expressed concern that the firms in question, Huawei Technologies and ZTE Corporation, reportedly have significant ties to the Chinese military and that both have received financing from the Chinese government. Kyl and Collins were among the eight GOP Senators that originally raised concerns over reports in August that the firms were in talks to supply equipment to Sprint Nextel.
In their letter the lawmakers express concern that doing business with the two firms could give China the means to embed itself in the U.S. telecommunications sector for the purpose of spying on Americans' communications.
“We are very concerned that these companies are being financed by the Chinese government and greatly influenced by the Chinese military, which may create an opportunity for the Chinese military to manipulate switches, routers, or software embedded in American telecommunications network so that communications can be intercepted, tampered with, or purposely misrouted," the lawmakers wrote. "This would pose a real threat to our national security.”
The letter cites a 2009 report from the Pentagon that states Huawei has significant ties to the Chinese People's Liberation Army. It also references published reports that both firms received tens of billions of dollars in low and no-interest loans from the Chinese government that do not require repayment.
More here>>
Sens. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.), Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) along with Rep. Sue Myrick (R-N.C.) expressed concern that the firms in question, Huawei Technologies and ZTE Corporation, reportedly have significant ties to the Chinese military and that both have received financing from the Chinese government. Kyl and Collins were among the eight GOP Senators that originally raised concerns over reports in August that the firms were in talks to supply equipment to Sprint Nextel.
In their letter the lawmakers express concern that doing business with the two firms could give China the means to embed itself in the U.S. telecommunications sector for the purpose of spying on Americans' communications.
“We are very concerned that these companies are being financed by the Chinese government and greatly influenced by the Chinese military, which may create an opportunity for the Chinese military to manipulate switches, routers, or software embedded in American telecommunications network so that communications can be intercepted, tampered with, or purposely misrouted," the lawmakers wrote. "This would pose a real threat to our national security.”
The letter cites a 2009 report from the Pentagon that states Huawei has significant ties to the Chinese People's Liberation Army. It also references published reports that both firms received tens of billions of dollars in low and no-interest loans from the Chinese government that do not require repayment.
More here>>
Jacoby: The Undeniable Jewish State
Is Israel a Jewish state?
Is the pope Catholic?
Nothing about Israel could be more self-evident than its Jewishness. As Poland is the national state of the Polish people and Japan is the national state of the Japanese people, so Israel is the national state of the Jewish people. The UN's 1947 resolution on partitioning Palestine contains no fewer than 30 references to the "Jewish state" whose creation it was authorizing; 25 years earlier, the League of Nations had been similarly straightforward in mandating "the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people." When Israel came into existence on May 15, 1948, its Jewish identity was the first detail reported. The New York Times's front-page story began: "The Jewish state, the world's newest sovereignty, to be known as the State of Israel, came into being in Palestine at midnight upon termination of the British mandate."
Today, half the planet's Jews live in that state, many of them refugees from anti-Semitic repression and violence elsewhere. In a world with more than 20 Arab states and 55 Muslim countries, the existence of a single small Jewish state should be unobjectionable. "Israel is a sovereign state, and the historic homeland of the Jewish people," President Barack Obama told the UN General Assembly last month. By now that should be a truism, no more controversial than calling Italy the sovereign homeland of the Italian people.
And yet to Israel's enemies, Jewish sovereignty is as intolerable today as it was in 1948, when five Arab armies invaded the newborn Jewish state, vowing "a war of extermination and a momentous massacre." Endless rounds of talks and countless invocations of the "peace process" have not changed the underlying reality of the Arab-Israeli conflict, which is not about settlements or borders or Jerusalem or the rights of Palestinians.
The root of the hostility is the refusal to recognize the immutable right of the Jewish people to a sovereign state in its historic homeland. Until that changes, no lasting peace is possible.
That is why the Israeli government is correct to insist that the Palestinian Authority publicly recognize Israel as the Jewish state. It is the critical litmus test. "Palestinian nationalism was based on driving all Israelis out," Edward Said told an interviewer in 1999, and the best evidence that most Palestinians are still intent on eliminating Israel is the vehemence with which even supposed "moderates" like Mahmoud Abbas will not — or dare not — acknowledge Israel's Jewishness as a legitimate fact of life. "What is a 'Jewish state?'" Abbas ranted on Palestinian TV. "You can call yourselves whatever you want, but I will not accept it . . . You can call yourselves the Zionist Republic, the Hebrew, the National, the Socialist [Republic]. Call it whatever you like. I don’t care."
Read the rest here
Is the pope Catholic?
Nothing about Israel could be more self-evident than its Jewishness. As Poland is the national state of the Polish people and Japan is the national state of the Japanese people, so Israel is the national state of the Jewish people. The UN's 1947 resolution on partitioning Palestine contains no fewer than 30 references to the "Jewish state" whose creation it was authorizing; 25 years earlier, the League of Nations had been similarly straightforward in mandating "the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people." When Israel came into existence on May 15, 1948, its Jewish identity was the first detail reported. The New York Times's front-page story began: "The Jewish state, the world's newest sovereignty, to be known as the State of Israel, came into being in Palestine at midnight upon termination of the British mandate."
Today, half the planet's Jews live in that state, many of them refugees from anti-Semitic repression and violence elsewhere. In a world with more than 20 Arab states and 55 Muslim countries, the existence of a single small Jewish state should be unobjectionable. "Israel is a sovereign state, and the historic homeland of the Jewish people," President Barack Obama told the UN General Assembly last month. By now that should be a truism, no more controversial than calling Italy the sovereign homeland of the Italian people.
And yet to Israel's enemies, Jewish sovereignty is as intolerable today as it was in 1948, when five Arab armies invaded the newborn Jewish state, vowing "a war of extermination and a momentous massacre." Endless rounds of talks and countless invocations of the "peace process" have not changed the underlying reality of the Arab-Israeli conflict, which is not about settlements or borders or Jerusalem or the rights of Palestinians.
The root of the hostility is the refusal to recognize the immutable right of the Jewish people to a sovereign state in its historic homeland. Until that changes, no lasting peace is possible.
That is why the Israeli government is correct to insist that the Palestinian Authority publicly recognize Israel as the Jewish state. It is the critical litmus test. "Palestinian nationalism was based on driving all Israelis out," Edward Said told an interviewer in 1999, and the best evidence that most Palestinians are still intent on eliminating Israel is the vehemence with which even supposed "moderates" like Mahmoud Abbas will not — or dare not — acknowledge Israel's Jewishness as a legitimate fact of life. "What is a 'Jewish state?'" Abbas ranted on Palestinian TV. "You can call yourselves whatever you want, but I will not accept it . . . You can call yourselves the Zionist Republic, the Hebrew, the National, the Socialist [Republic]. Call it whatever you like. I don’t care."
Read the rest here
Today's Survey Question
Maryland lags behind the national average on gas tax.
Is it time to start paying a higher gas tax?
Be An American Hero!
In 1980 the United States was rocked by double digit inflation, double digit interest rates, double digit unemployment. The Keynesian economic model, so popular at the time and the current favorite of Progressives who won’t publicly admit that they are socialists, stated that such “stagflation” wasn’t possible. Reality was a different matter.
Ronald Reagan and a conservative ascendency rode into power. Four short years later we lived in this America:
By the end of the decade, the Cold War was over. The death, destruction, and “nuclear winter” promised by those on the left never materialized (although countless thousands, from Korea, to Vietnam, and countless skirmishes throughout the world gave their lives in defense of liberty).
Fast forward to 2010. Runaway government spending (by Democrats and Republicans alike) and an attempt by the government to interfere with markets has yielded this:
President Reagan is gone. There will probably never be another. That’s OK. We can turn America around. From near bankruptcy (I know, technically the Federal government can’t go bankrupt), America can once again be that “Shining City”. This time we don’t have Ronald Reagan. It will take MANY of us. It won’t happen overnight. But … It CAN happen!
It’s time to SEND THE HIPPIES HOME! Be an American Hero. Start by voting on November 2nd. It can be “Morning In America” once again!
H/T – Julie Brewington @ RightCoast
from Delmarva DealingsBoard Of Public Works Approves $72 Million For New Helicopters, But Questions Lack Of Bids
The purchase of the new helicopters has been hotly debated for two years, after a crash of one of the department’s current Dauphin helicopters killed state police personnel on board. There was general agreement that the aging helicopters need to be replaced, but there were arguments over how to do it, where the money would come from, and what was needed to improve safety.
The approved contract buys six new helicopters now, and has an option for six more between 2011 and 2013.
GO HERE to read more.
Man Eats 10 Cans Of Tuna Weekly For 2 Years, Gets Mercury Poisoning, Sues
Mercury poisoning does not only afflict egotistical actors trying to get out of Speed-the-Plow performances, but New York men who devour 10 cans of tuna every week for two years. And the latter variety may decide to sue tuna makers for their troubles.
More »
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Buyers Unearth Old Real Estate Law To Escape Now-Crappy Home Deals
A law implemented in 1968 to protect would-be swampland purchasers is now the best friend of home buyers who went into contract at the height of the bubble and are now trying to escape paying well-above market value and get back their deposits.
More »
More »
Payments To Doctors By Most Pharma Companies Still Remain Secret
Consumers concerned about drug company payments to their doctors will have to wait until 2013 for physician payment data from all pharmaceutical companies to be made publicly available.
GO HERE to read more.
GO HERE to read more.
Community Invited To Informational Work Session on Race To The Top Grant Tuesday, Oct. 26
An informational work session on Wicomico County’s Race to the Top grant plans will be held at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26, in the Board of Education Auditorium for the Board of Education, elected officials, business leaders, and other community stakeholders. This will be an opportunity for the community to learn what plans the school system has developed for putting the four-year, $3.1 million Race to the Top federal grant to work for students. The Scope of Work Plan must be submitted to the Maryland State Department of Education by Nov. 3, and information must be shared with the community prior to that date. 410-677-4561.
A Letter To The Editor
Joe, I had to send this to you. This is a reply (Anonymous, as usual) from one of your readers re: the notice that a woman has been appointed as Chief of Police in Salisbury. I know it is just one little blurb but proves that all your readers are not fully equipped with an over abundance of gray matter. The statement was,
Anonymous said...
Look at Chief Dipino in Ocean City, took a department of old hasbeens and turned it around........ first class Chief!
First there would be many that would argue that she was not the Messiah for OCPD, but that not withstanding, to say that she is the person responsible for the greatness of OCPD is absolutely ludicrous. The person that started the revamping was Lee Duggan...he inherited an Agency that was in dire need of leadership. After Lee left, the department staggered a bit but Lee was returned to the helm and then passed the baton to Dave Massey who handed Dipino the keys to a pretty fair department. OCPD has some excellent officers which are paid well and respected by many in the world of Law Enforcement. Chiefs help but the men and women of any organization are the life blood.
I hope the new Chief in Salisbury is up to the task but with all the bickering that seems to be prevalent she may have a rough row to hoe, as they say.
Jack K Richards
Auburndale, Fl 33823
Found Cat
Can you please post this picture? This cat was found on Sweetbay Dr in Salisbury, behind the Fountains. He is beautiful and very sweet. He is declawed in the front and does not seem to like to be outside. He seems to be someone's indoor cat. As an animal lover I would like to see this cat reunited with his family. I can be contacted at 443-497-3963. Thank you!
Angelique
Somerset County Sheriff's Office Press Release
10-11-10 Deputies charged two juveniles with possession of marijuana, and possession of perscription pills. Deputies were called to the Washington High School regarding two seperate reports of a student seen with drugs. Both students were arrested and later released to parents pending juvenile court actions.
10-18-10 Terri Lashay Jones of Pocomoke, charged on a criminal summons regarding second degree assault.
10-18-10 Deondre Maurice Taylor of Princess Anne, arrested on two warrants regarding failing to appear in court, and child support. Taylor was later held on a $5,500.00 bond.
10-19-10 William Isaac Saunders 3rd. of Westover, charged on a criminal summons regarding second degree assault.
10-19-10 Brandon Eugene Johnson of Salisbury, arrested on a warrant regarding failure to appear in court. Johnson was later held on a $2,500 bond.
10-20-10 Deputies charged a juvenile for second degree assault. The arrest was a result an assault complaint at the Somerset County Intermediate School. The juvenile was released to parents pending juvenile court actions.
Government Prepares To Seize Private Pensions
The government is preparing to seize the private 401(k) pensions of millions of Americans while enforcing an additional 5 per cent payroll tax as part of a new bailout program that will empower the Social Security Administration to redistribute pension funds in a frightening example of big government gone wild.
Public pension plans have been so aggressively looted already by the government that cities and counties face a $574 billion funding gap, according to a CNBC report.
That black hole is set to be filled by a new proposal that will “fairly” distribute taxpayer-funded pensions to everyone, by confiscating the private wealth of millions of Americans. Its proponents express staggering arrogance in thinking that they can just steal money people have worked for decades to accrue as if it’s their own.
Not only would the government confiscate 401(k) pensions, it would also impose a mandatory 5 per cent payroll tax payable by everyone, according to a hearing chaired last week by Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee.
“This would, of course, be a sister government ponzi scheme working in tandem with Social Security, the primary purpose being to give big government politicians additional taxpayer funds to raid to pay for their out-of-control spending,” writes Connie Hair.
GO HERE to read more.
Public pension plans have been so aggressively looted already by the government that cities and counties face a $574 billion funding gap, according to a CNBC report.
That black hole is set to be filled by a new proposal that will “fairly” distribute taxpayer-funded pensions to everyone, by confiscating the private wealth of millions of Americans. Its proponents express staggering arrogance in thinking that they can just steal money people have worked for decades to accrue as if it’s their own.
Not only would the government confiscate 401(k) pensions, it would also impose a mandatory 5 per cent payroll tax payable by everyone, according to a hearing chaired last week by Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee.
“This would, of course, be a sister government ponzi scheme working in tandem with Social Security, the primary purpose being to give big government politicians additional taxpayer funds to raid to pay for their out-of-control spending,” writes Connie Hair.
GO HERE to read more.
POLLITT TO KEYNOTE WNC CONFERENCE
Wicomico County Executive Richard M. Pollitt, Jr., is scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the Wicomico Neighborhood Congress’ First Annual Dinner & Conference on Tuesday, October 26th at 6 P.M. at the Salisbury University Commons. The Neighborhood Congress is one of the first initiatives of Pollitt’s administration. The county’s first executive called for the formation of the all volunteer organization in December, 2006.
The stated mission of the WNC is to “Bring together the residents of Wicomico County, to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens by addressing issues
of importance to our neighborhoods, and by motivating and enabling the residents of our neighborhoods who express a mutual interest and shared commitment to preserve, protect and improve their own living conditions.”
of importance to our neighborhoods, and by motivating and enabling the residents of our neighborhoods who express a mutual interest and shared commitment to preserve, protect and improve their own living conditions.”
The WNC has grown from an idea to a thriving organization composed of 68
members including Home Owners Associations, Neighborhood & Condominium Associations and individuals.
LORA Election Forum October 21
The Local Owner Restaurant Association (LORA) and the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce (SACC) invite you to attend a candidate meet and greet for all races in Wicomico County including the Maryland General Assembly District 37 and 38 races and the Governors race on Thursday, October 21 at Black Diamond & Lodge in Fruitland from 6-8 pm. All candidates have been invited and the ones that accepted are below. The LORA members will provide free appetizers and a cash bar. This program will have each candidate at a table. Voters can visit them and ask them personal one on one question. Donations will be accepted and go towards LORA'S " Taste for Tomorrow Scholarship Fund" for future scholarships that go to Wicomico County students that are going into the Restaurant Hospitality field as a career.
CITY OF SALISBURY CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
Meeting #18 OCTOBER 25, 2010 6:00 p.m.
City/County Government Office Building Room 301
Times shown for agenda items are estimates only.
6:00 p.m. CONVENE – LORD’S PRAYER – PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
6:04 p.m. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
6:07 p.m. RESOLUTION OF CONDOLENCE – Mayor James Ireton, Jr. City’s adopted unit at Fort Campbell, Kentucky
6:12 p.m. PROCLAMATION – Mayor James Ireton, Jr. Proclaiming November as "Municipal Government Works Month"
6:17 p.m. CONSENT AGENDA – Assistant City Clerk Kim Nichols October 11, 2010 minutes
Resolution No. 1986 - appointment of Tim Spies to the Recycling Advisory Committee Manufacturing exemption request - Viskon-Aire Corporation
6:20 p.m. AWARD OF BIDS – Internal Services Director Pam Oland
6:25 p.m. PUBLIC HEARING – City Attorney Paul Wilber Ordinance No. 2124 - establishing a fee structure for the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Salisbury Board of Zoning Appeals, and the Mayor and City Council relative to advertising fees for certain public hearings
6:30 p.m. ORDINANCES – City Attorney Paul WilberOrdinance No. 2125 - 2nd reading - reading - amending the FY11 General Fund Budget to provide additional funds to cover repairs of the slate roof and gutters at the Poplar Hill Mansion
Ordinance No. 2126 - 1st reading - amending Ordinance No. 2058 Section A – Lot Rates to add a parking permit rate for parking lot #35 effective December 1, 2010
6:40 p.m. PUBLIC COMMENTS
6: 50 p.m. ADJOURN
City/County Government Office Building Room 301
Times shown for agenda items are estimates only.
6:00 p.m. CONVENE – LORD’S PRAYER – PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
6:04 p.m. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
6:07 p.m. RESOLUTION OF CONDOLENCE – Mayor James Ireton, Jr. City’s adopted unit at Fort Campbell, Kentucky
6:12 p.m. PROCLAMATION – Mayor James Ireton, Jr. Proclaiming November as "Municipal Government Works Month"
6:17 p.m. CONSENT AGENDA – Assistant City Clerk Kim Nichols October 11, 2010 minutes
Resolution No. 1986 - appointment of Tim Spies to the Recycling Advisory Committee Manufacturing exemption request - Viskon-Aire Corporation
6:20 p.m. AWARD OF BIDS – Internal Services Director Pam Oland
6:25 p.m. PUBLIC HEARING – City Attorney Paul Wilber Ordinance No. 2124 - establishing a fee structure for the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Salisbury Board of Zoning Appeals, and the Mayor and City Council relative to advertising fees for certain public hearings
6:30 p.m. ORDINANCES – City Attorney Paul WilberOrdinance No. 2125 - 2nd reading - reading - amending the FY11 General Fund Budget to provide additional funds to cover repairs of the slate roof and gutters at the Poplar Hill Mansion
Ordinance No. 2126 - 1st reading - amending Ordinance No. 2058 Section A – Lot Rates to add a parking permit rate for parking lot #35 effective December 1, 2010
6:40 p.m. PUBLIC COMMENTS
6: 50 p.m. ADJOURN
Andy Harris Endorsed By National Taxpayers Union
“I’ve protected taxpayers for twelve years in the Maryland Senate and the National Taxpayers Union knows I will do the same in Washington,” said Andy Harris. “To get our stagnant economy moving again, we need to cut taxes across the board so businesses can expand and Americans can keep more of their own money to put into the economy.”
Out of hundreds of candidates, Harris was also named one of the "Taxpayers' Twenty." “The Taxpayers' Twenty are the ones to watch when it comes to making Washington, D.C. a place where the people who pay government's bills are back in charge," said NTUCF President Duane Parde. "By sending the Taxpayers' Twenty to Washington, voters will be sending a strong message for limited government that will echo loudly throughout the halls of the 112th Congress."
NTUCF is the political action arm of the National Taxpayers Union (NTU), the nation's largest grassroots taxpayer organization. NTU, founded in 1969, created the NTU Campaign Fund in 1994. Read the NTU endorsement here.
Debate Questions For Governor O’Malley – Uncovering The Truth
ANNAPOLIS - Prior to the third Gubernatorial Debate between Governor O’Malley and Bob Ehrlich, the Maryland Republican Party issued the following questions for Governor O’Malley, because Marylanders deserve the truth:
- In the first debate you said that your tactic of arresting thousands of innocent people in Baltimore saved lives. Do you still believe that arresting innocent Baltimore City residents is appropriate and legal?
- Marvin “Doc” Cheatham of the Baltimore branch of the NAACP recently told The Afro Newspaper, “Due to the arrogance of a mayor and his administration, hundreds if not thousands of Baltimore City men were unconstitutionally arrested, not charged with anything, but left in Central Booking with an arrest record…” Do you still stand by this policy? (Source: The Afro: 6/30/10)
- In 2006, the ACLU and the NAACP filed suit against the City of Baltimore over these arrests on behalf of 14 plaintiffs. The City of Baltimore recently settled by agreeing to pay $870,000, retrain officers, and issue new policies. How do you feel about the ACLU and the NAACP filing suit over your tactics?
- Bob Ehrlich made it a major priority to rehabilitate nonviolent offenders by creating Project RESTART so they would be productive members of society upon their release. You have refused to make a similar commitment to nonviolent offenders. Why?
- Why have you abdicated your duty to exercise clemency powers to pardon or commute the sentences of prisoners who have rehabilitated themselves in prison? Legal experts have said that, “withholding this sort of official forgiveness is not sensible, and it's not safe.” (Source: The Washington Post 6/21/09)
- The U.S. General Accounting Office recently found that your Administration’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program – designed to help low income Marylanders heat their homes in winter – was filled with fraud and abuse, with wealthy homeowners getting heating funds at the expense of residents in need. You have offered no plan to fix this problem. Why?
- A recent state audit found “significant deficiencies” at the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services, which included the untimely criminal background checks on employees and overtime payments to ineligible workers. Can you actually claim “progress” here? Where is the “progress” and what have you done to correct it?
MDGOP Seeks To Halt Illegal Democrat Electioneering
ANNAPOLIS – The Maryland Republican Party will seek the removal of illegal Democrat campaign signs posted across Maryland. The signs, which contain no authority line, have no traceable source of funding and are posted across the State on public property. According to Maryland Republican Party Chairman Audrey Scott, Democrats will stop at nothing to motivate their disinterested supporters.
“We have rules for a reason, yet Democrats in this state consistently refused to abide by them,” said Scott. “These signs are illegal, clearly misleading and need to be removed immediately.”
The illegal campaign signs which are posted primarily on lamp posts, street signs, and other state property, encourage voters to vote to support President Obama. Some Maryland Democrats are already facing charges over distributing illegal campaign materials during the Primary Election, and the Maryland Republican Party is committed to preventing the same from occurring during the General.
“After controlling state government for the better part of the last 40 years, Maryland Democrats clearly believe there is one set of rules for them and another for everyone else,” Scott said. “I will ensure the Maryland Republican Party does everything in our power to maintain fair and legal elections here in Maryland.”
O'MALLEY TO DEBATE ON WOLB AND RALLY WITH CLINTON
President Clinton Will Rally Support For Governor 'On The Side' Of Maryland's Working Families
Baltimore, MD -- With early voting starting on Friday and less than two weeks remaining until the general election, the momentum behind the O'Malley-Brown campaign could not be stronger. Tomorrow, Governor O'Malley will debate Bob Ehrlich for the third time, following two earlier victories at debates hosted by WJZ-TV and the Washington Post. The latest Gonzales poll shows O'Malley growing his lead and solidifying support in key areas of the state.
In the afternoon, President Bill Clinton will join Governor O'Malley and Lt. Governor Brown for a special rally at Federal Hill Park in Baltimore. President Clinton is backing Governor O'Malley because of his strong support for working families and his clear vision to move Maryland forward.
4:00pm-5:00pm
Rally with President ClintonFederal Hill Park
Baltimore, MD
Gates open to media at 2pm. General admission at 3pm.
RSVP here: http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=zqmpzcdab&et=1103796215118&s=0&e=001iDOstNz2blv7uzmcFEz6TCGDkejG1GClE4JCZnXzwvzVwknUjmcsXgDSUsebiTGc0fuSF3-k9C5XhvQAOe-sFuMHios8MgTZhv4L8Fchyee2FavvAOq8m8DU5FrMEtxr-WOY9R1bVmlAicQnDMiWbg==
Thursday October 21, 2010
8:00am-9:00am
Governor O'Malley to participate in WOLB Live Gubernatorial Debate
Governor O'Malley to participate in WOLB Live Gubernatorial Debate
1750 Whitehead Road
Baltimore, MD
USSSA Brings Ghoul’s Halloween Havoc To Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex
(Salisbury, MD) Join the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) at the Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex for the Ghoul's Halloween Havoc Softball Tournament on October 30-31, 2010. Girls participating can take the field wearing Halloween costumes. Players can also enjoy pumpkin decorating contests, a haunted trail, costume contests and more Halloween themed activities.
Play is open to teams in the 10U/11U, 13U and 15U age groups. The cost is $435 for a 4 game guarantee. For more information contact Steve Miller at 410-548-4900 ext. 105 or email smiller@wicomicocounty.org.
FIRST LADY KATIE O’MALLEY TO HONOR 10 LEGENDARY LADIES
First Lady to Join Maryland Life Magazine and the Maryland Women's Heritage Center in Honoring 10 Women who have changed the face of Maryland
ANNAPOLIS, MD – First Lady Katie O’Malley tomorrow will join Maryland Life magazine and the Maryland Women’s Heritage Center in honoring ten women who have changed the face of Maryland, at the Heritage Center’s annual “10 Legendary Ladies” recognition ceremony. The Maryland Heritage Center is the first comprehensive state-based center and museum of its kind in the nation. The mission of the Maryland Women’s Heritage Center is to preserve the past, understand the present, and shape the future by recognizing, respecting, and transmitting the experiences and contributions of Maryland women and girls of diverse backgrounds and regions.
GOVERNOR O’MALLEY ANNOUNCES NEW ADDITIONS TO MARYLAND’S WORLD-CLASS EMERGENCY RESPONSE
MEDEVAC Helicopter Replacement Begins
ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 20, 2010) – Governor Martin O’Malley today gathered with members of Maryland’s public safety and medical community at Lee Airport to announce an important step in improving public safety in Maryland that includes replacing the state’s aging medevac helicopter.
Earlier today, the Board of Public Works, comprised of Governor O’Malley, Comptroller Peter Franchot and Treasurer Nancy Kopp, approved a contract to begin replacing Maryland’s aging medevac helicopter fleet. A contract for $72.2 million was awarded to Agusta Aerospace Corporation for six new AW 139 helicopters.
“For as long as Lt. Governor Brown and I have the privilege of serving the people of our State, we will fight to give emergency responders and law enforcement the tools they need to get the job done and the equipment they need to get it done safely,” Governor O’Malley said. “Today we fulfill promises we made to the people of Maryland to continue improving public safety even in tough economic times. To move Maryland forward, we must continue the improvement that is underway across our State in public safety and disaster preparedness. We are investing in the latest technologies and equipment so our first responders have what they need to maintain Maryland’s world class emergency response system.”
“We are fortunate to have the best trauma system in the world here in Maryland,” said Speaker Michael E. Busch. “I am proud that the Governor and the legislature had the foresight to continue making critical investments in our public safety infrastructure to support our first responders and help save lives.”
The new helicopters contain the latest in avionics and equipment, including terrain awareness warning systems, night vision compatibility, cockpit voice and video recorders, radar altimeters, and advanced instrument flight rating capabilities, all recommended by the Federal Aviation Administration. The new helicopters also provide more space in the patient and cargo areas, enabling medics to have better access to patients and to carry rescue equipment on board all the time.
The Governor also referred to an item that that will be before the Board of Public Works in two weeks which will begin to build the network that will permit police, fire, and EMS personnel to communicate with each other during an emergency. Currently, agencies at the local, state, and federal level operate on different radio frequencies and communications during times of emergency and disaster can be difficult and inefficient. Streamlining communications will save money while expediting emergency services for citizens. The new system will provide a robust network that will be the backbone of interoperability between first responders at the local, state and federal level.
“These new helicopters and a communications system that enables us to immediately cross jurisdictional boundaries are significant improvements to public safety capabilities in Maryland,” State Police Superintendent Colonel Terrence B. Sheridan said. “I thank Governor O’Malley for his persistent work and his constant leadership to ensure we are equipped with these new technologies. I thank the members of the General Assembly who spent many hours reviewing the future of Maryland’s emergency medical services system. I also appreciate the hard work of members of the Maryland Department of Transportation who coordinated the helicopter bid process. We will use these technologies to make Maryland safer.”
The first two new aircraft are expected to be delivered in about 18 months. All six are expected to be in operation in less than two years. The new aircraft will replace the oldest of the current Maryland State Police helicopters. Eight of the 11 helicopters currently in use are more than 20 years old. Increasing age and flight hours result in increasing mandated inspections and maintenance, meaning the aircraft are increasingly unavailable for use.
Maryland’s medevac program began in the State Police in March 1970, in cooperation with Dr. R Adams Cowley and the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center. Since then, more than 130,000 patients have been flown to lifesaving care at one of Maryland’s network of trauma and specialty-care hospitals.
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