DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Friday, October 22, 2010
Salisbury Zoo Animal Health Clinic
At the October 11, 2010, City Council meeting, the City Council approved a bid for the Animal Health Clinic at the Salisbury Zoo. This new building will include animal holding areas, a surgery room, a necropsy room and an office area. The building is a positive addition to the Salisbury Zoo and keeps the Zoo recognized as one of the best small zoos in the United States.
Joseph Zimmer, Inc. was the lowest, responsive and responsible bidder for Phases I and II of the building project. At present, the City has funding to build Phases I and II and will complete Phase III when funding is available. The fundraising arm of the Salisbury Zoo, the Delmarva Zoological Society, is currently conducting the fundraising campaign for Phase III.
The City has received an inquiry about the bidding procedure, and this press release provides more detail about the process. The entire bid procedure was conducted by the Procurement Division of the Internal Services Department with the assistance of the Department of Public Works. Members of the Zoo Commission had no participation in the selection process.
The initial request for proposals was made available to all interested construction companies. This document contained the City standard conditions which the Procurement Division has included in all bids for the past several years. Specifically, the City reserved the right to reject any and all bids and to accept a bid in whole or in part. The bid document also contained language which permitted the City to make changes to increase or decrease the scope and nature of the work and service to be undertaken.
A pre-bid meeting was held for all potential bidders on May 19, 2010. Questions about the bid documents can and should have been asked at this meeting or within a defined time after the pre-bid meeting. As a result of questions asked by various bidders, the request for proposals was further explained in addendums sent to all bidders dated May 14, 2010, May 26, 2010, June 3, 2010, June 7, 2010, June 9, 2010, June 17, 2010, and June 29, 2010.
When bids were opened, eleven (11) contractors had submitted bids for Phases I, II and III of the Animal Health Clinic construction. The bids were each evaluated in detail by City Procurement and Public Works personnel. On October 11, 2010, a recommendation for approval of the low bidder for Phases I and II of the construction was submitted to the City Council and approved at a public meeting. This bid process has been reviewed and approved by the City Solicitor.
This information is provided to inform all interested parties about the City’s bid documents and process, and the careful review of all bids before presentation to the City Council for approval. This process allows each bidder to ask questions and receive answers prior to submitting their bid and provides a level playing field for all bidders.
The construction of this new clinic represents a significant step forward in the future of the Zoo. This building will serve as the cornerstone for future development of the Zoo’s animal collection and allow the Zoo staff to more efficiently address the medical needs of the animals. This building also represents the first construction project to be funded through the Renew the Zoo! Capital Campaign. Great things are happening at the Zoo! The City, the Zoo and our community look forward to breaking ground on this important new addition to the Zoo.
Joseph Zimmer, Inc. was the lowest, responsive and responsible bidder for Phases I and II of the building project. At present, the City has funding to build Phases I and II and will complete Phase III when funding is available. The fundraising arm of the Salisbury Zoo, the Delmarva Zoological Society, is currently conducting the fundraising campaign for Phase III.
The City has received an inquiry about the bidding procedure, and this press release provides more detail about the process. The entire bid procedure was conducted by the Procurement Division of the Internal Services Department with the assistance of the Department of Public Works. Members of the Zoo Commission had no participation in the selection process.
The initial request for proposals was made available to all interested construction companies. This document contained the City standard conditions which the Procurement Division has included in all bids for the past several years. Specifically, the City reserved the right to reject any and all bids and to accept a bid in whole or in part. The bid document also contained language which permitted the City to make changes to increase or decrease the scope and nature of the work and service to be undertaken.
A pre-bid meeting was held for all potential bidders on May 19, 2010. Questions about the bid documents can and should have been asked at this meeting or within a defined time after the pre-bid meeting. As a result of questions asked by various bidders, the request for proposals was further explained in addendums sent to all bidders dated May 14, 2010, May 26, 2010, June 3, 2010, June 7, 2010, June 9, 2010, June 17, 2010, and June 29, 2010.
When bids were opened, eleven (11) contractors had submitted bids for Phases I, II and III of the Animal Health Clinic construction. The bids were each evaluated in detail by City Procurement and Public Works personnel. On October 11, 2010, a recommendation for approval of the low bidder for Phases I and II of the construction was submitted to the City Council and approved at a public meeting. This bid process has been reviewed and approved by the City Solicitor.
This information is provided to inform all interested parties about the City’s bid documents and process, and the careful review of all bids before presentation to the City Council for approval. This process allows each bidder to ask questions and receive answers prior to submitting their bid and provides a level playing field for all bidders.
The construction of this new clinic represents a significant step forward in the future of the Zoo. This building will serve as the cornerstone for future development of the Zoo’s animal collection and allow the Zoo staff to more efficiently address the medical needs of the animals. This building also represents the first construction project to be funded through the Renew the Zoo! Capital Campaign. Great things are happening at the Zoo! The City, the Zoo and our community look forward to breaking ground on this important new addition to the Zoo.
WANT TO CHANGE THE SCENERY IN SALISBURY, VOTE THE REPUBLICAN TICKET
This VETERAN wants a decent paying JOB, not your CHANGE! Oh, did I happen to mention UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBERS ARE UP!!!!!!
Pair Of Serial Bank Robbers Arrested
Locations and Dates of Occurrences:
WSFS Bank, 2522 Foulk Road, Wilmington, DE. Friday, October 8, 2010 at 11:25 a.m.
TD Bank, 1803 Marsh Road, Wilmington, DE. Friday, October 8, 2010 at 11:50 a.m.
Wachovia Bank, 2011 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE. Thursday, October 14, 2010 at 4:40 p.m.
Suspects and Charges:
Nkikia Earl, 21, Wilmington, DE (1 count of Robbery 1st degree)
17 year old Wilmington youth (2 counts of Robbery 1st degree)
Resume: Delaware State Police detectives have arrested two people in connection with the robbery of three banks in north Wilmington that occurred earlier this month.
The 17 year old youth was arrested on Wednesday, October 20, 2010 at John Dickinson High School where he is a student. He was charged with the robbery of the TD Bank located on Marsh Road in Wilmington that occurred on Friday, October 8, 2010 at approximately 11:50 a.m. He was also charged with the robbery of the Wachovia Bank located on Marsh Road, in Wilmington that occurred on Thursday, October 14, 2010 at 4:40 p.m. In both cases the suspect entered the banks and produced a demand note for cash. After receiving money, the suspect fled from the bank and was seen entering either a gold Toyota Camry or a black Chrysler Sebring which was being operated by another subject.
Nkikia Earl turned himself in to detectives at Troop 2 on Wednesday, October 20, 2010. He was arrested for the robbery of the WSFS Bank located on Foulk Road in Wilmington on Friday, October 8, 2010 at approximately 11:25 a.m. In that robbery, the suspect entered the bank and presented a demand note to the bank teller. The suspect also displayed a handgun. After receiving cash, the suspect fled the bank and entered a gold Toyota that was in the parking lot and which was being operated by a second suspect. Both suspects are believed to have also committed that robbery of the TD Bank Branch located on Rt. 202 in Concord Township, in Pennsylvania on October 8, 2010 at approximately 10:30 a.m.
Detectives were able to develop the 17 year old and Earl as suspects from evidence that was recovered from the bank robbery that had occurred in Pennsylvania. Detectives then executed search warrants at the home of the juvenile as well as Earl’s residence where further evidence was recovered.
The youth was arraigned at JP Court 2 and committed to the New Castle County Detention Center for lack of $200,000.00 bail. Earl was also arraigned at JP Court 2 then committed to the Howard Young Correctional Facility for lack of $25,000.00 cash bail.
The investigation into the robbery of the TD Bank on Rt. 202 is continuing by the Pennsylvania State Police.
A Comment Worthy Of A Post
"I am registered Democrat who just voted a straight Republican ticket. Obama and his administration are cancer to the American society and the Democrats are a malignant cancer,the only way to cure this cancer is terminate the Democrats from office. Best protection from this cancer is early voting, this is a very ugly cancer."
BREAKING NEWS!!!!!!!!!!
Today, Station 16 was called out to an emergency in Harbor Point. Thank God a Fire Truck was dispatched, an Ambulance AND an Assistant Fire Chief to the scene as the danger was a bit overwhelming. Mind you, the Fire Truck was sent back to the Station as the call amounted to a victim with a hand stuck inside a glass jar.
While emergencies come in all sizes, the 911 Center needs to do a MUCH better job breaking down just what is and isn't an EMERGENCY!
Let me say this Folks. My In Laws are just about as stubborn and stubborn gets. In the middle of the night, one of them fell out of bed and was unable to get back into bed due to health reasons. The partner tried to do everything in their power to help but dead weight is dead weight and it's difficult for almost anyone to do it alone. That being said, they refused to burden 911, so they slept on the floor for the evening and waited until the morning to call one of us for help.
A GLASS JAR!!!!!! What the heck is wrong with people today, do they have NO PRIDE! When I asked one of my In Laws why they didn't call the Fire Department they replied, we didn't want to wake anyone up.
For what it's worth, that resident should be BILLED for that call, period!
Andy Harris On Maryland September Jobs Report
Unemployment Rises to 7.5 Percent
SEVERNA PARK, Md. – Andy Harris released the following statement regarding September’s Maryland Jobs Report showing unemployment rising from 7.3 percent to 7.5 percent:
“The Maryland Jobs Report proves the Obama-Pelosi-Kratovil Team has failed once again and our economy continues to sputter. Of the reported Maryland jobs that were created in September, 73 percent of them were actually government jobs. Increasing the size of government is not the way to jumpstart our economy. The economy must grow from the bottom up, creating private sector jobs through tax cuts and small business incentives, not through taxpayer-funded government jobs. We need to break up the Obama-Pelosi-Kratovil Team and send someone to Washington who knows what it takes to create jobs and get our country back on the right track.”
A Weekend Full Of Great Things To Do In Salisbury!
Mayor James Ireton, Jr., encourages the community to be a part of these events.
DOWNTOWN CELEBRATION:
Friday afternoon starting at 5:30 p.m. Escape Restaurant will be hosting their one year anniversary celebration. Come out and show your support for the revitalization of Salisbury’s Downtown Plaza.
NEIGHBORHOOD EVENTS:
Saturday morning, October 23rd, at Prince Street Elementary School from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Salisbury’s Promise will host “Gimme Five Day” – a special day devoted to our youth and providing the 5 promises: caring adults, safe places, healthy start, an effective education, opportunities to help others. There will be activities for the kids, food and a free eye screening.
PRINCETON AVENUE SERVICE CENTER:
From 12noon to 4:00 p.m. in the Princeton Homes area there will be a free block party hosted by Allen Memorial Baptist Church. Princeton Avenue Service Center is being utilized by SPD, NSCC, the Safe Streets Neighborhood Organization, and Center for Conflict Resolution. There will be free food, games, clowns, face painting, door prizes, free gifts and a live band.
SUSTAINABLE LIVING:
Wor-Wic Community College, EcoVentures International, MCE, and Telamon Corporation are hosting, Community Education on Sustainable Living: Local Businesses and Organizations Working Together to Build Smart, Green and Healthier Communities at Wor-Wic Community College, Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. There’s no cost to attend. Green Leader, Mayor Gee Williams of Berlin will kick-off the event. First 100 participants receive a sustainable bag of goodies valued at over $25. To register for the event, email Lee Ann Shull at lshull@worwic.edu.
SSO AT SU:
Also, The Salisbury Symphony Orchestra at Salisbury University features selections from the book Frederick’s Fables by Leo Lionni during its annual Children’s Concert at 3 p.m. Saturday, October 23, in Holloway Hall Auditorium. Conducted by Dr. Jeffrey Schoyen, the concert opens the SSO’s 2010-2011 season, which marks its 25th year.
DOWNTOWN CELEBRATION:
Friday afternoon starting at 5:30 p.m. Escape Restaurant will be hosting their one year anniversary celebration. Come out and show your support for the revitalization of Salisbury’s Downtown Plaza.
NEIGHBORHOOD EVENTS:
Saturday morning, October 23rd, at Prince Street Elementary School from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Salisbury’s Promise will host “Gimme Five Day” – a special day devoted to our youth and providing the 5 promises: caring adults, safe places, healthy start, an effective education, opportunities to help others. There will be activities for the kids, food and a free eye screening.
PRINCETON AVENUE SERVICE CENTER:
From 12noon to 4:00 p.m. in the Princeton Homes area there will be a free block party hosted by Allen Memorial Baptist Church. Princeton Avenue Service Center is being utilized by SPD, NSCC, the Safe Streets Neighborhood Organization, and Center for Conflict Resolution. There will be free food, games, clowns, face painting, door prizes, free gifts and a live band.
SUSTAINABLE LIVING:
Wor-Wic Community College, EcoVentures International, MCE, and Telamon Corporation are hosting, Community Education on Sustainable Living: Local Businesses and Organizations Working Together to Build Smart, Green and Healthier Communities at Wor-Wic Community College, Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. There’s no cost to attend. Green Leader, Mayor Gee Williams of Berlin will kick-off the event. First 100 participants receive a sustainable bag of goodies valued at over $25. To register for the event, email Lee Ann Shull at lshull@worwic.edu.
SSO AT SU:
Also, The Salisbury Symphony Orchestra at Salisbury University features selections from the book Frederick’s Fables by Leo Lionni during its annual Children’s Concert at 3 p.m. Saturday, October 23, in Holloway Hall Auditorium. Conducted by Dr. Jeffrey Schoyen, the concert opens the SSO’s 2010-2011 season, which marks its 25th year.
WBI Press Release
Serving Wicomico, Somerset and Worcester Counties
Press Release
Incident: Burglary Investigation
Date: 10 Sep 2010
Location: 27000 block of Nanticoke Road, Salisbury, MD
On 10 September 2010 at approximately 0100hrs, law enforcement responded to a residence in the 27000 block of Nanticoke Road for a reported home invasion style burglary. During this event, a resident woke up to find himself being beaten with a handgun. That resident was subsequently bound while the perpetrator stole a flat screen television and video games. The suspect in this case is described as an African American male, 5’6" – 5’10" with a thin build. The victim was able to run to an adjacent residence for help after the perpetrator left the residence.
Detectives from the Wicomico County Bureau of Investigation are currently investigating this case and are seeking anyone who may have information regarding this case.
Crime Solvers of the Lower Eastern Shore is currently offering up to a $2,000.00 reward for information that leads to an arrest in this case. Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776.
Remember – You will remain confidential!
Crime solvers Unites Local Law Enforcement for a Safer Community
Crime Solvers is a 501C – 3 organization
410-548-1776
Press Release
Incident: Burglary Investigation
Date: 10 Sep 2010
Location: 27000 block of Nanticoke Road, Salisbury, MD
On 10 September 2010 at approximately 0100hrs, law enforcement responded to a residence in the 27000 block of Nanticoke Road for a reported home invasion style burglary. During this event, a resident woke up to find himself being beaten with a handgun. That resident was subsequently bound while the perpetrator stole a flat screen television and video games. The suspect in this case is described as an African American male, 5’6" – 5’10" with a thin build. The victim was able to run to an adjacent residence for help after the perpetrator left the residence.
Detectives from the Wicomico County Bureau of Investigation are currently investigating this case and are seeking anyone who may have information regarding this case.
Crime Solvers of the Lower Eastern Shore is currently offering up to a $2,000.00 reward for information that leads to an arrest in this case. Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776.
Remember – You will remain confidential!
Crime solvers Unites Local Law Enforcement for a Safer Community
Crime Solvers is a 501C – 3 organization
410-548-1776
The Goal, $200,000.00 For 2010
We came so close to reaching last years goal but bad weather cut us just shy of reaching the $200,000.00. Two bad snow storms hit the Eastern Shore, stopping us from the biggest day, Saturday, just before Christmas.
"Together We Can" achieve this goal this year. Thanks to so many of you for volunteering your time last year, Salisbury News received this award for OUR, (you and I) contribution and I'm very proud of all of you.
Times are even tougher this year. Families are already coming to the Salvation Army in need of help. Together, we can help the Salvation Army but more importantly, those Families who need us most.
Your time is what I'm asking of you. Please consider ringing the bell for the Salvation Army. 2 hours of your time would be fantastic and very much appreciated.
Sandy Fitzgerald and the Pohanka Automotive Group have teamed up with the Salvation Army to ring the bell every single Tuesday and Thursday at Sam's Club throughout the entire Holiday Season. John Robinson of the Robinson Family of Businesses also joined us this year to take an entire day at one location.
For any business that signs up to ring a bell at any location, Salisbury News will provide a FREE ad for your business for an entire month. It's our way of saying, THANK YOU.
We are so proud of the fact that the Salisbury Chapter of the Salvation Army is 100% volunteers. Many chapters, (as did Salisbury in years past) actually pay bell ringers. Because of your generosity with your time, our local chapter has been completely volunteer for the past two and now 3 years.
Ladies & Gentlemen, this is an unbelievable experience. One in which you will never regret for the rest of your lives. Please join us and help our neighbors and especially their children enjoy a Christmas meal and gifts under the tree they other wise would not have.
To the hundreds of people who have joined us in the past, I personally THANK YOU so very much. We look forward to those phones ringing off the hook and providing schedules to show which locations are available to meet your schedule.
Wicomico County Law Enforcement Makes Front Cover Of Maryland Sheriff Magazine
Yard Sales
Only 1 yard sale post for today, so here it is:
We are having a huge consignment show for infants and all the way up to teens. Its thousands of brand name clothing and priced to sell. We all know in these times it is hard to go out shopping but we all want our children to look there best. This is the opportunity for the public to do so, you wont be disappointed with what you see. Teens to Tots clothing consignment. Quality New & Pre-Owned BRAND NAME clothing and accessories for all seasons. 1 DAY ONLY! Saturday Oct.23, 8:00am to 6:00pm. Located in the conference room at the Hampton Inn Fruitland, MD. Clothing Includes Abercrombie, Hollister, Gap, Osh Kosh, Ralph Lauren Polo, Carters, Justice, American Eagle, Old Navy and more. All brand names. No off brands. Boys & Girls- Infants to Teens. Priced to sell. Hope to see everyone there!!!
We are having a huge consignment show for infants and all the way up to teens. Its thousands of brand name clothing and priced to sell. We all know in these times it is hard to go out shopping but we all want our children to look there best. This is the opportunity for the public to do so, you wont be disappointed with what you see. Teens to Tots clothing consignment. Quality New & Pre-Owned BRAND NAME clothing and accessories for all seasons. 1 DAY ONLY! Saturday Oct.23, 8:00am to 6:00pm. Located in the conference room at the Hampton Inn Fruitland, MD. Clothing Includes Abercrombie, Hollister, Gap, Osh Kosh, Ralph Lauren Polo, Carters, Justice, American Eagle, Old Navy and more. All brand names. No off brands. Boys & Girls- Infants to Teens. Priced to sell. Hope to see everyone there!!!
Dr. Milton Wolf: Obamacare's Utopian Vision A Fraud From The Beginning
We are witnessing the unmistakable collapse of an American presidency. While this may not yet be irreversible, it certainly was predictable and preventable. Chief among its causes has been the unbridled hubris that prompted this president to force Obamacare, the government takeover of the finest health care system in the world, against the clear will of "we the people" while turning his back on the free-market principles that once made us the most prosperous nation on earth.
A diminished president, even - or perhaps especially - if his fate is self-inflicted, is not good for America and should not be pleasing to any patriot regardless of his or her political leanings. It certainly is not pleasing to me, as this president is my cousin. But as a physician who took an inviolate oath to my patients, I am duty-bound to take this stand, particularly after watching Barack Obama make so many unkeepable Obamacare promises:
* Obamacare would reduce our deficit. We were to believe that millions of Americans would be added to the insurance rolls, that medical care would not suffer, and somehow, almost magically, costs would go down. We might as well promise it will never rain on weekends. Gravity caught up to this wishful thinking, and even the president's own actuary now admits the overhaul will increase, not decrease, the deficit.
* Obamacare would allow you to keep your doctor and your current insurance. How can you keep your doctor if your doctor can't keep his practice? The New England Journal of Medicine reported a survey that showed nearly half of America's doctors are being forced to consider leaving their practice if Obamacare is implemented. And businesses already are finding they can no longer provide the same insurance policies to their employees that they had before Obamacare. Oklahoma's Republican Sen. Tom Coburn, also a physician, estimates 90 million Americans will lose their current insurance policies because of the takeover. Millions of them will be forced into Medicaid and government exchanges.
* Obamacare would not jeopardize senior citizens' care. The continued viability of Medicare Advantage is in serious jeopardy because of Mr. Obama's Medicare cuts to pay for other parts of his health care overhaul. Companies already are announcing that they can no longer offer this very popular free-market Medicare reform. What's more, fewer doctors are able to accept Medicare patients with the downward pressure on reimbursement levels, currently stuck at 1980s levels. Too often, physicians' practices cannot survive being in business with the federal government. Already, 42 percent of doctors do not accept Medicare, and that number is increasing. Your shiny government-issued Medicare card is meaningless without doctors who will accept it.
* Obamacare would not ration health care. The president promised time and time again that he would not ration health care, and then promptly, under the cloak of a recess appointment, installed as the head of Medicare a man who would do it for him.
* Obamacare would not raise taxes on anyone earning less than $250,000 a year.
"I can make a firm pledge. Under my plan, no family making less than $250,000 a year will see any form of tax increase. Not your income tax, not your payroll tax, not your capital gains taxes, not any of your taxes."
New excise taxes on pharmaceuticals and medical products will, of course, by necessity be passed on to the patients who depend on these lifesaving medicines, pacemakers, MRI machines or even tongue depressors. Even more flagrant, there are new Obamacare taxes on everything from tampons to tanning salons, from gold to the sale of your home.
* Obamacare would create 4 million new jobs, 400,000 almost immediately. Not to be outdone, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi added this grand promise of her own. However, since the health care takeover was signed into law, no such jobs boom has occurred.
* Obamacare hearings would be held in public. Unlike the other promises, this one could have been kept and in fact may have prevented all these other catastrophic failures, but sadly, it was wantonly ignored by this president. Candidate Obama pledged eight times to hold health care hearings in public. Invite the C-SPAN cameras, he said, because open hearings would allow Americans to know who was on their side. Indeed it would have.More details here
A diminished president, even - or perhaps especially - if his fate is self-inflicted, is not good for America and should not be pleasing to any patriot regardless of his or her political leanings. It certainly is not pleasing to me, as this president is my cousin. But as a physician who took an inviolate oath to my patients, I am duty-bound to take this stand, particularly after watching Barack Obama make so many unkeepable Obamacare promises:
* Obamacare would reduce our deficit. We were to believe that millions of Americans would be added to the insurance rolls, that medical care would not suffer, and somehow, almost magically, costs would go down. We might as well promise it will never rain on weekends. Gravity caught up to this wishful thinking, and even the president's own actuary now admits the overhaul will increase, not decrease, the deficit.
* Obamacare would allow you to keep your doctor and your current insurance. How can you keep your doctor if your doctor can't keep his practice? The New England Journal of Medicine reported a survey that showed nearly half of America's doctors are being forced to consider leaving their practice if Obamacare is implemented. And businesses already are finding they can no longer provide the same insurance policies to their employees that they had before Obamacare. Oklahoma's Republican Sen. Tom Coburn, also a physician, estimates 90 million Americans will lose their current insurance policies because of the takeover. Millions of them will be forced into Medicaid and government exchanges.
* Obamacare would not jeopardize senior citizens' care. The continued viability of Medicare Advantage is in serious jeopardy because of Mr. Obama's Medicare cuts to pay for other parts of his health care overhaul. Companies already are announcing that they can no longer offer this very popular free-market Medicare reform. What's more, fewer doctors are able to accept Medicare patients with the downward pressure on reimbursement levels, currently stuck at 1980s levels. Too often, physicians' practices cannot survive being in business with the federal government. Already, 42 percent of doctors do not accept Medicare, and that number is increasing. Your shiny government-issued Medicare card is meaningless without doctors who will accept it.
* Obamacare would not ration health care. The president promised time and time again that he would not ration health care, and then promptly, under the cloak of a recess appointment, installed as the head of Medicare a man who would do it for him.
* Obamacare would not raise taxes on anyone earning less than $250,000 a year.
"I can make a firm pledge. Under my plan, no family making less than $250,000 a year will see any form of tax increase. Not your income tax, not your payroll tax, not your capital gains taxes, not any of your taxes."
New excise taxes on pharmaceuticals and medical products will, of course, by necessity be passed on to the patients who depend on these lifesaving medicines, pacemakers, MRI machines or even tongue depressors. Even more flagrant, there are new Obamacare taxes on everything from tampons to tanning salons, from gold to the sale of your home.
* Obamacare would create 4 million new jobs, 400,000 almost immediately. Not to be outdone, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi added this grand promise of her own. However, since the health care takeover was signed into law, no such jobs boom has occurred.
* Obamacare hearings would be held in public. Unlike the other promises, this one could have been kept and in fact may have prevented all these other catastrophic failures, but sadly, it was wantonly ignored by this president. Candidate Obama pledged eight times to hold health care hearings in public. Invite the C-SPAN cameras, he said, because open hearings would allow Americans to know who was on their side. Indeed it would have.More details here
Van Hollen: Pelosi Will Remain Speaker
Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), reiterated his confidence in his party at a breakfast sponsored by the Christian Science Monitor.
In an interview with Charlie Rose on Wednesday night, Pelosi said she has "every anticipation" she'll be Speaker next year.
"I have every anticipation that we'll come together in a similar format as we are now, with me as Speaker of the House," she said.
More
O’Donnell Insists She Can Win-- Coons Plays It Cool
A defiant Christine O'Donnell implored supporters to get out and vote on Election Day, claiming her upstart candidacy is surging against Democratic nominee Chris Coons.
“We don't need another rubber-stamp in Washington,” O'Donnell told an overwhelmingly friendly crowd Thursday night at a 9/12 Patriots rally in Sussex County --the heart of Republican country in Delaware, a generally Democratic-friendly state.
Despite polls showing a sizable gap between O'Donnell and Democratic nominee Chris Coons, the Republican struck a confident tone, challenging Coons to additional debates and criticizing the Democrat for ducking her.
“My opponent is obviously scared,” the Tea Party favorite told The Hill in an interview after the Sussex County event, adding that she received word late Thursday that Coons was pulling out of a debate originally scheduled for Delaware State University on Sunday.
O’Donnell said she suspected the scheduling conflict is simply an excuse to avoid her, adding that her campaign offered to shift its schedule to accommodate Coons.
O’Donnell on Thursday was speaking to the conservatives in Kent and Sussex counties that turned out in large numbers during last month's primary, helping her to a stunning defeat of longtime Rep. Mike Castle (R-Del.).
The Republican spoke to a standing room only crowd at a local firehouse, reminding voters that before her primary she asked them to bring 10 friends to the polls on Election Day.
“Well, when you come out and vote this time, I need you to bring 100 friends,” O'Donnell said.
One man in the audience held up a picture of a raccoon, with the words “Harry Reid's pet” in bold black lettering across the top-- a reference to an interview Reid gave to The Hill last month, in which he called Coons, “my pet.”Read more here
“We don't need another rubber-stamp in Washington,” O'Donnell told an overwhelmingly friendly crowd Thursday night at a 9/12 Patriots rally in Sussex County --the heart of Republican country in Delaware, a generally Democratic-friendly state.
Despite polls showing a sizable gap between O'Donnell and Democratic nominee Chris Coons, the Republican struck a confident tone, challenging Coons to additional debates and criticizing the Democrat for ducking her.
“My opponent is obviously scared,” the Tea Party favorite told The Hill in an interview after the Sussex County event, adding that she received word late Thursday that Coons was pulling out of a debate originally scheduled for Delaware State University on Sunday.
O’Donnell said she suspected the scheduling conflict is simply an excuse to avoid her, adding that her campaign offered to shift its schedule to accommodate Coons.
O’Donnell on Thursday was speaking to the conservatives in Kent and Sussex counties that turned out in large numbers during last month's primary, helping her to a stunning defeat of longtime Rep. Mike Castle (R-Del.).
The Republican spoke to a standing room only crowd at a local firehouse, reminding voters that before her primary she asked them to bring 10 friends to the polls on Election Day.
“Well, when you come out and vote this time, I need you to bring 100 friends,” O'Donnell said.
One man in the audience held up a picture of a raccoon, with the words “Harry Reid's pet” in bold black lettering across the top-- a reference to an interview Reid gave to The Hill last month, in which he called Coons, “my pet.”Read more here
Double Standard: NPR Keeps Commentator Who Offended Christians
National Public Radio may have fired its lone black male on-air commentator, Juan Williams, after remarks he made to Fox News' Bill O'Reilly that it considered anti-Muslim. But another pundit, who once called an evangelical Christian tenet of faith "crap" -- and hoped that millions of believers would "evaporate" -- remains a regular presence nearly 15 years later.
The Romanian-born writer Andrei Codrescu "has been a commentator on 'All Things Considered' since 1983," his NPR.org bio states. Codrescu's latest broadcast was on Monday, when he complained that "something called the tea party drank all the Kool-Aid in America."
In December 1995, Codrescu said of the evangelical belief of the Rapture, in which Christ's faithful would miraculously ascend from the earth before the Second Coming: "The evaporation of 4 million who believe this crap would leave the world an instantly better place."
Belief in the Rapture is based on the fourth chapter of Paul's first epistle to the Thessalonians.
Tens of thousands of complaints from listeners were soon sent to NPR, much of whose funding comes from the taxpayers. NPR apparently never considered removing Codrescu from his regular on-air perch, and took three days to issue a qualified apology for his use of a "vulgar term," and for saying the world would be better without such believers.
More on this
The Romanian-born writer Andrei Codrescu "has been a commentator on 'All Things Considered' since 1983," his NPR.org bio states. Codrescu's latest broadcast was on Monday, when he complained that "something called the tea party drank all the Kool-Aid in America."
In December 1995, Codrescu said of the evangelical belief of the Rapture, in which Christ's faithful would miraculously ascend from the earth before the Second Coming: "The evaporation of 4 million who believe this crap would leave the world an instantly better place."
Belief in the Rapture is based on the fourth chapter of Paul's first epistle to the Thessalonians.
Tens of thousands of complaints from listeners were soon sent to NPR, much of whose funding comes from the taxpayers. NPR apparently never considered removing Codrescu from his regular on-air perch, and took three days to issue a qualified apology for his use of a "vulgar term," and for saying the world would be better without such believers.
DeMint To Introduce Bill To Defund NPR
Fox News’ Bill O’Reilly said Thursday night that “Jim DeMint will introduce legislation to defund” NPR in the wake of Juan Williams’s firing, according to Politico. DeMint's office confirmed to the website that the senator will announce the legislation today.
A visibly shaken Williams pointed out to O’Reilly on the show that he was the only black man on NPR.
“I didn’t fit in their box there,” he said
More
A visibly shaken Williams pointed out to O’Reilly on the show that he was the only black man on NPR.
“I didn’t fit in their box there,” he said
More
Illegal Immigrants Canvassing For Votes
When Maria Gianni is knocking on voters' doors, she's not bashful about telling people she is in the country illegally. She knows it's a risk to advertise to strangers that she's here illegally — but one worth taking in what she sees as a crucial election.
The 42-year-old is one of dozens of volunteers — many of them illegal immigrants — canvassing neighborhoods in the Seattle area trying to get naturalized citizens to cast a ballot for candidates like Democrat Sen. Patty Murray, who is in a neck-to-neck race with Republican Dino Rossi.
Pramila Jayapal, head of OneAmerica Votes, says the campaign is about empowering immigrants who may not feel like they can contribute to a campaign because they can't vote.
"Immigrants really do matter," Jayapal said. "If we can't vote ourselves, we're gonna knock on doors, or get family members to vote."
So far the illegal immigrants going door-to-door aren't meeting opposition. Craig Keller, an organizer for Respect WA, a group pushing for stricter immigration law in the Washington, said he doesn't mind illegal immigrants volunteering for vote drives, he just wants to make sure mistakes on the voter rolls don't allow them to vote.
"Anybody can go out and wave a sign, but when it comes to who's making the choices, there's no question they need to be citizens," Keller said.
In close elections across the country, the immigrant and minority vote is considered key for candidates, especially Democrats.Here is more
The 42-year-old is one of dozens of volunteers — many of them illegal immigrants — canvassing neighborhoods in the Seattle area trying to get naturalized citizens to cast a ballot for candidates like Democrat Sen. Patty Murray, who is in a neck-to-neck race with Republican Dino Rossi.
Pramila Jayapal, head of OneAmerica Votes, says the campaign is about empowering immigrants who may not feel like they can contribute to a campaign because they can't vote.
"Immigrants really do matter," Jayapal said. "If we can't vote ourselves, we're gonna knock on doors, or get family members to vote."
So far the illegal immigrants going door-to-door aren't meeting opposition. Craig Keller, an organizer for Respect WA, a group pushing for stricter immigration law in the Washington, said he doesn't mind illegal immigrants volunteering for vote drives, he just wants to make sure mistakes on the voter rolls don't allow them to vote.
"Anybody can go out and wave a sign, but when it comes to who's making the choices, there's no question they need to be citizens," Keller said.
In close elections across the country, the immigrant and minority vote is considered key for candidates, especially Democrats.Here is more
Pot Calls Kettle Black
County executive turns down debate request
Rick Pollitt refused an offer for a televised debate.
As a community service, the Wicomico Neighborhood Congress has hosted two PAC 14 televised debates, one for state's attorney candidates and the other for those competing for seats on the County Council.
The Wicomico Neighborhood Congress regrettably informed me County Executive Pollitt did not want to participate in such a debate.
That means voters will not have an opportunity to see a televised head-to-head debate between Pollitt and me -- two candidates competing for this county's highest elected office. Can you imagine the uproar if an incumbent president or governor refused to debate their challenger?
Voters should be outraged at Pollitt's refusal. Why has he denied you the opportunity to make a more informed decision? Is he living up to his campaign pledge -- "Building Bridges -- Building Community?"
Please consider this when going to the polls on Nov. 2.
Joe Ollinger
Editors Notes: Mr. Ollinger refused to be interviewed by Salisbury News. Mr. Pollitt not only agreed, he showed up twice. While Mr. Ollinger campaigned for Ron Alessi 4 years ago, Mr. Alessi wasn't present while Mr. Ollinger spoke on Mr. Alessi's behalf. Mr. Ollinger cannot be taken as a viable and serious candidate as many of the topics on his platform are simply, (sound good) sound bites but cannot be done. Because Mr. Ollinger now knows he falls well behind, he wants a televised debate? My hat is tipped to Mr. Pollitt for refusing to get into an arena with a Championship Belt while Mr. ollinger has nothing to offer in return.
Rick Pollitt refused an offer for a televised debate.
As a community service, the Wicomico Neighborhood Congress has hosted two PAC 14 televised debates, one for state's attorney candidates and the other for those competing for seats on the County Council.
The Wicomico Neighborhood Congress regrettably informed me County Executive Pollitt did not want to participate in such a debate.
That means voters will not have an opportunity to see a televised head-to-head debate between Pollitt and me -- two candidates competing for this county's highest elected office. Can you imagine the uproar if an incumbent president or governor refused to debate their challenger?
Voters should be outraged at Pollitt's refusal. Why has he denied you the opportunity to make a more informed decision? Is he living up to his campaign pledge -- "Building Bridges -- Building Community?"
Please consider this when going to the polls on Nov. 2.
Joe Ollinger
Editors Notes: Mr. Ollinger refused to be interviewed by Salisbury News. Mr. Pollitt not only agreed, he showed up twice. While Mr. Ollinger campaigned for Ron Alessi 4 years ago, Mr. Alessi wasn't present while Mr. Ollinger spoke on Mr. Alessi's behalf. Mr. Ollinger cannot be taken as a viable and serious candidate as many of the topics on his platform are simply, (sound good) sound bites but cannot be done. Because Mr. Ollinger now knows he falls well behind, he wants a televised debate? My hat is tipped to Mr. Pollitt for refusing to get into an arena with a Championship Belt while Mr. ollinger has nothing to offer in return.
Early Voting Starts Today!
Early voting STARTS TODAY and voters are ready to cast their ballots. I want to use this new opportunity to show the Democrat power establishment in Washington, D.C. how excited we are to cast our vote for real change in this country.
I'm asking you to take the time now to find your early voting location so you can cast your vote starting today through October 28th (excluding Sunday October 24th). You can vote from 10 AM until 8 PM at your voting location.
I'm confident that our message is resonating loud and clear with Marylanders yearning for common sense leadership in Washington. Your hard work and dedication has gotten us where we are today, but we need to finish strong. Let’s carry the tremendous momentum we’ve generated straight to the polls.
If you're still undecided, please visit my website and learn more about me and my position on the issues that matter most to you and your family. I'm confident that if you do the research, you will see that my campaign for Congress is the best fit for our district.
Thank you for your time and your support. I need your vote today to ensure that I can represent you and your family in the U.S House of Representatives.
Andy Harris
P.S. After you have voted, please go to one of the Victory phone bank locations to do your part to ensure that Marylanders everywhere know about our message. Thank you.
I'm asking you to take the time now to find your early voting location so you can cast your vote starting today through October 28th (excluding Sunday October 24th). You can vote from 10 AM until 8 PM at your voting location.
I'm confident that our message is resonating loud and clear with Marylanders yearning for common sense leadership in Washington. Your hard work and dedication has gotten us where we are today, but we need to finish strong. Let’s carry the tremendous momentum we’ve generated straight to the polls.
If you're still undecided, please visit my website and learn more about me and my position on the issues that matter most to you and your family. I'm confident that if you do the research, you will see that my campaign for Congress is the best fit for our district.
Thank you for your time and your support. I need your vote today to ensure that I can represent you and your family in the U.S House of Representatives.
Andy Harris
P.S. After you have voted, please go to one of the Victory phone bank locations to do your part to ensure that Marylanders everywhere know about our message. Thank you.
81 days since Salisbury Safe Streets Legislation Introduced Still No Council Work Session
Mayor James Ireton, Jr. reminds the public, today, that 81 days have passed since he introduced the Salisbury Safe Streets Legislative Package.
The package was introduced to the public and given to City Council on Monday, August 2nd, 2010. This means City Council has had 81 days to place this on a Work session agenda and Council President, Louise Smith, has yet to do so. Mayor Ireton urges the public, in the wake of the current wave of violence, to contact Mrs. Smith and demand that the legislative package get a hearing. The mayor has asked that the package have an up or down vote by Thanksgiving of this year. After two public forums, members of the public, whether they support the legislation in its entirety or in parts have demanded that Council President Smith place this on a work session agenda.
“With a new Chief of Salisbury Police, and numerous neighborhood meetings under my belt, I am even more confident that the Safe Streets Legislative Package is right for Salisbury’s future. No matter what group of special interest folks Mrs. Smith convenes, our residents have spoken. Those residents want something done. 81 days is a travesty. I implore residents to contact Mrs. Smith and demand action.” Mayor Ireton said.
http://www.ci.salisbury.md.us/CityGovernment/CityCouncilofSalisburyMD/tabid/80/Default.aspx - For links to Salisbury City Council Members
http://www.ci.salisbury.md.us/Default.aspx?tabid=643 – Neighborhood Legislative Package Link
The package was introduced to the public and given to City Council on Monday, August 2nd, 2010. This means City Council has had 81 days to place this on a Work session agenda and Council President, Louise Smith, has yet to do so. Mayor Ireton urges the public, in the wake of the current wave of violence, to contact Mrs. Smith and demand that the legislative package get a hearing. The mayor has asked that the package have an up or down vote by Thanksgiving of this year. After two public forums, members of the public, whether they support the legislation in its entirety or in parts have demanded that Council President Smith place this on a work session agenda.
“With a new Chief of Salisbury Police, and numerous neighborhood meetings under my belt, I am even more confident that the Safe Streets Legislative Package is right for Salisbury’s future. No matter what group of special interest folks Mrs. Smith convenes, our residents have spoken. Those residents want something done. 81 days is a travesty. I implore residents to contact Mrs. Smith and demand action.” Mayor Ireton said.
http://www.ci.salisbury.md.us/CityGovernment/CityCouncilofSalisburyMD/tabid/80/Default.aspx - For links to Salisbury City Council Members
http://www.ci.salisbury.md.us/Default.aspx?tabid=643 – Neighborhood Legislative Package Link
FANNY MAE, FREDDY MAC REQUESTING MORE FEDERAL BAILOUT MONEY
Thursday - A Federal Regulator announced that FannieMae & Freddy Mac needs between 221 - 363 billion dollars through 2013 to keep the financial elephants afloat. These two companies are responsible for funding the lions share of US housing and are chartered by the US Congress.But how can this be? Remember - not to long ago while being interviewed Congressman Barney Frank, Chris Dodd, and Maxine Waters previously assured us that these agencies were, in fact, rock solid.
Losses continue to mount as real estate woes continue across the entire nation.
Click Here to read more.
Police Chief Duncan - Interesting Tidbit
From:http://www.mvinquirer.com/duncan.htm
"It was my dream to become Chief of Police for the City of Mount Vernon. I look forward to working with Mayor Young, Commissioner Chong, the Police Benevolent Association, the community, as well as my fellow officers to protect and strengthen our communities,” stated Chief Duncan.Chief Duncan resides in Yonkers with husband, retired Mount Vernon Captain Richard Duncan and six children.
(Local media reports 4 boys and 2 step children)
Appears we might be getting a 2 for 1 . . .just like Hillary & Bill!
"It was my dream to become Chief of Police for the City of Mount Vernon. I look forward to working with Mayor Young, Commissioner Chong, the Police Benevolent Association, the community, as well as my fellow officers to protect and strengthen our communities,” stated Chief Duncan.Chief Duncan resides in Yonkers with husband, retired Mount Vernon Captain Richard Duncan and six children.
(Local media reports 4 boys and 2 step children)
Appears we might be getting a 2 for 1 . . .just like Hillary & Bill!
Huckabee Calls On Congress To Cut NPR Funding
In the wake of NPR's firing of contributor Juan Williams over comments about Muslims, Mike Huckabee is calling on the next Congress to cut the radio network's funding when it convenes next year.
"NPR has discredited itself as a forum for free speech and a protection of the First Amendment rights of all and has solidified itself as the purveyor of politically correct pabulum and protector of views that lean left," Huckabee said in a statement provided to CNN.
Williams told Fox News host Bill O'Reilly on Monday that he gets "worried" and "nervous" on flights when he sees people wearing "Muslim garb." NPR terminated Williams' contract on Wednesday evening because of that statement.
"It is time for the taxpayers to start making cuts to federal spending, and I encourage the new Congress to start with NPR," he said.
NPR says federal funding comprises less than 2 percent of its budget.
[Then they won't miss the taxpayers' money very much, will they? -- Editor]
More here
"NPR has discredited itself as a forum for free speech and a protection of the First Amendment rights of all and has solidified itself as the purveyor of politically correct pabulum and protector of views that lean left," Huckabee said in a statement provided to CNN.
Williams told Fox News host Bill O'Reilly on Monday that he gets "worried" and "nervous" on flights when he sees people wearing "Muslim garb." NPR terminated Williams' contract on Wednesday evening because of that statement.
"It is time for the taxpayers to start making cuts to federal spending, and I encourage the new Congress to start with NPR," he said.
NPR says federal funding comprises less than 2 percent of its budget.
[Then they won't miss the taxpayers' money very much, will they? -- Editor]
More here
A Soros Connection To Juan Williams Firing?
National Public Radio’s firing of political pundit Juan Williams for comments he made on Fox News has raised speculation that liberal NPR patron George Soros may have influenced the media organization’s decision to ax Williams on Wednesday.
Williams’ seemingly innocuous remarks came when he appeared on Fox News’ “The O’Reilly Factor” on Monday. Asked by host Bill O’Reilly if the nation was facing a “Muslim dilemma,” Williams — who is also a Fox News political analyst — said: “I mean, look, Bill, I’m not a bigot. You know the kind of books I’ve written about the civil rights movement in this country. But when I get on the plane, I got to tell you, if I see people who are in Muslim garb and I think, you know, they are identifying themselves first and foremost as Muslims, I get worried. I get nervous.”
NPR said in a statement it had given Williams notice of his termination on Wednesday night. NPR said his remarks were “inconsistent” with NPR’s “editorial standards and practices, and undermined his credibility as a news analyst with NPR.”
Soros has made large donations to NPR and other left-leaning media over the years.
And this week it was revealed that the billionaire currency titan is giving $1 million to liberal Media Matters in what he says is an attempt to stop the growing popularity of Fox News.
According to The Daily Caller, “The firing of National Public Radio news analyst Juan Williams for comments made about Muslims, combined with left-wing billionaire George Soros’ recent $1.8 million donation to the organization, have reignited calls to end NPR’s taxpayer subsidies.”
More from Newsmax
Williams’ seemingly innocuous remarks came when he appeared on Fox News’ “The O’Reilly Factor” on Monday. Asked by host Bill O’Reilly if the nation was facing a “Muslim dilemma,” Williams — who is also a Fox News political analyst — said: “I mean, look, Bill, I’m not a bigot. You know the kind of books I’ve written about the civil rights movement in this country. But when I get on the plane, I got to tell you, if I see people who are in Muslim garb and I think, you know, they are identifying themselves first and foremost as Muslims, I get worried. I get nervous.”
NPR said in a statement it had given Williams notice of his termination on Wednesday night. NPR said his remarks were “inconsistent” with NPR’s “editorial standards and practices, and undermined his credibility as a news analyst with NPR.”
Soros has made large donations to NPR and other left-leaning media over the years.
And this week it was revealed that the billionaire currency titan is giving $1 million to liberal Media Matters in what he says is an attempt to stop the growing popularity of Fox News.
According to The Daily Caller, “The firing of National Public Radio news analyst Juan Williams for comments made about Muslims, combined with left-wing billionaire George Soros’ recent $1.8 million donation to the organization, have reignited calls to end NPR’s taxpayer subsidies.”
More from Newsmax
Texas Food Factory Closed, Packaged Produce Recalled
Officials probing deaths, illnesses linked to fruit and vegetables shipped from processing plant
SAN ANTONIO — Texas health officials have shut down a processing plant linked to contaminated celery that sickened at least six people this year, four of whom died, and ordered the recall of all of the produce that passed through the plant since January.
SanGar Produce & Processing Co. issued the recall Wednesday after its plant in San Antonio was shuttered. The Texas Department of State Health Services traced six of 10 known cases of listeriosis in the state during an eight month period to celery processed there. The agency is investigating the origins of the other four cases, which include one death.
Health inspectors found problems with sanitation at the plant, including a condensation leak over a food production area. The health department is trying to determine who the now-recalled produce was sold to and whether it was used in other products. The agency recommends that customers throw out or return all SanGar products.
GO HERE to read more.
ANNUAL HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY AT LANDFILL
Wicomico County Executive Richard M. Pollitt, Jr., announced today that county residents will have an opportunity to dispose of hazardous household waste at no charge on Saturday, October 30th, at the Newland Park Landfill. The hours for “Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day” are 7:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.
The event is open to residents of Wicomico County and participants should bring a valid proof of residence such as a driver’s license. The Landfill will be accepting the following:
Gasoline
Gas/Oil mixes
Fuels
Acids
Cleaners
Solvents
Automotive Fluids
Bleach
Ammonia
Batteries (all types)
Household Smoke Detectors
Asbestos
Pool Chemicals
Dark Room Chemicals
Household & Lawn & Garden Pesticides
Insecticides & Herbicides
Compressed Gas Propane Cylinders (30 gallon and under)
Painting Products
Oil Based Paint
Paint Thinner
Turpentine
Wood Preservatives
Wood Stripping Chemicals
Landfill officials noted that solidified latex paint may be disposed of with trash. It can be solidified by adding dirt, mulch, kitty litter or a comparable substance.
The Landfill will not be accepting the following:
Business, Industrial or Commercial Farm Waste
Explosives
Ammunition (handled by Fire Marshall)
Medical Waste
Radioactive Material
Landfill officials suggest that participants pre-arrange large loads. They also said that empty fuel containers will be returned upon request and that staff will help unload vehicles.
County Executive Pollitt commented, “Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day’ is another step in the right direction of preserving our beautiful county for future generations.”
DOJ Goes After Tea Partiers, Leaves Club-wielding Black Panthers Alone
Obama’s Department of Justice has suddenly turned on a dime, becoming the great pro-active protector of voters’ rights:
Poll watchers in Harris County, Texas — where a Tea Party group launched an aggressive anti-voter fraud effort — were accused of “hovering over” voters, “getting into election workers’ faces” and blocking or disrupting lines of voters who were waiting to cast their ballots as early voting got underway yesterday.
Now, TPMMuckraker has learned, the Justice Department has interviewed witnesses about the alleged intimidation and is gathering information about the so-called anti-voter fraud effort….
Terry O’Rourke, the first assistant in the Harris County Attorney’s office, told TPMMuckraker that there have been allegations of poll watchers talking to voters, which they are not allowed to do, as well as hovering over voters as they are waiting to vote. He said the complaints came from Kashmere Gardens, Moody Park, Sunnyside and other predominantly minority neighborhoods of the county.
It may well be that these Tea Partiers (or other poll watchers, since it’s not clear who belongs to the group) are out of line in some of their behavior (not unlike Michelle Obama on her trip to the polls), and if so, they should be kicked out of the polling places and punished for whatever the problem is. But given that the case against them has been built and brought by the Texas Democratic Party, it’s at least worth considering what sort of collusion is going on and whether the problem is that there are poll watchers in certain locations, full stop.
Obama’s politicized Justice Department has already lost all credibility when it comes to even-handed administration of justice on this matter. They let the Black Panthers off with one wrist-slap and two complete dismissals after their flagrant voter intimidation was caught on tape. Now they’re worried about poll watchers “talking to voters,” at a time when local Texas officials are preventing people from voting if they are wearing Gadsden Flag pins?
Should we call this a “Yellow and Green Scare?”
Moreover, the voter registration fraud claims discovered by this group are credible enough to merit attention. The poll-watchers went where they did because it’s a district in Houston where there were an astounding 24,000 addresses with more than six registered voters — about ten to fifteen times the number of such houses in most districts. So they dug deeper and found multiple people registered from vacant lots, impossibly large numbers of people (more than 40) registered in a seven-bed halfway house, registrations by avowed non-citizens, and several other anomalies. They then found that tens of thousands of these fraudulent registrations had been cooked up by a single union-backed outfit called Houston Votes:
Read more at the Washington Examiner
Poll watchers in Harris County, Texas — where a Tea Party group launched an aggressive anti-voter fraud effort — were accused of “hovering over” voters, “getting into election workers’ faces” and blocking or disrupting lines of voters who were waiting to cast their ballots as early voting got underway yesterday.
Now, TPMMuckraker has learned, the Justice Department has interviewed witnesses about the alleged intimidation and is gathering information about the so-called anti-voter fraud effort….
Terry O’Rourke, the first assistant in the Harris County Attorney’s office, told TPMMuckraker that there have been allegations of poll watchers talking to voters, which they are not allowed to do, as well as hovering over voters as they are waiting to vote. He said the complaints came from Kashmere Gardens, Moody Park, Sunnyside and other predominantly minority neighborhoods of the county.
It may well be that these Tea Partiers (or other poll watchers, since it’s not clear who belongs to the group) are out of line in some of their behavior (not unlike Michelle Obama on her trip to the polls), and if so, they should be kicked out of the polling places and punished for whatever the problem is. But given that the case against them has been built and brought by the Texas Democratic Party, it’s at least worth considering what sort of collusion is going on and whether the problem is that there are poll watchers in certain locations, full stop.
Obama’s politicized Justice Department has already lost all credibility when it comes to even-handed administration of justice on this matter. They let the Black Panthers off with one wrist-slap and two complete dismissals after their flagrant voter intimidation was caught on tape. Now they’re worried about poll watchers “talking to voters,” at a time when local Texas officials are preventing people from voting if they are wearing Gadsden Flag pins?
Should we call this a “Yellow and Green Scare?”
Moreover, the voter registration fraud claims discovered by this group are credible enough to merit attention. The poll-watchers went where they did because it’s a district in Houston where there were an astounding 24,000 addresses with more than six registered voters — about ten to fifteen times the number of such houses in most districts. So they dug deeper and found multiple people registered from vacant lots, impossibly large numbers of people (more than 40) registered in a seven-bed halfway house, registrations by avowed non-citizens, and several other anomalies. They then found that tens of thousands of these fraudulent registrations had been cooked up by a single union-backed outfit called Houston Votes:
Read more at the Washington Examiner
Washington’s Government-Run Health Care: A Maryland Job Killer
The Choice Facing Maryland: Bob Ehrlich and Martin O’Malley fundamentally disagree over the future of health care in Maryland. Bob believes in more choices for consumers based on market principles. Martin O’Malley believes in nationalized health care that drives up costs, rations health care, and limits consumer choice.
· Increased Costs: Governor O’Malley supports Washington’s health care experiment will save Maryland money but Maryland’s Department of Legislative Services has estimated it will cost upward of $200 million over the next 10 years. Governor O’Malley’s own Health Care Reform Coordinating Council predicts the administrative cost to manage Washington’s heath care experiment will be a minimum of $13 million a year.
· Higher Taxes: Washington plans to pay for their government takeover of health care with nearly $570 billion in job-killing taxes on small businesses, investments and innovation – taxes that will drastically hurt Maryland businesses.
· Fewer Jobs: According to the National Federation of Independent Business, the federal government’s employer mandate – which Martin O’Malley supports -- will cost the country 1.6 million jobs and $200 billion in economic activity in just five years.
They Said It…
· O’Malley’s own Lt. Governor – Anthony Brown – admitted that their government-run health care mandates will lead to increase costs in Maryland. (Source: marylandreporter.com 7/26/10).
· A University of Maryland economist said, “The new health care law will add huge costs to employers and higher premiums for individuals…Voila, even fewer dollars for consumers to spend on U.S. goods and more businesses offshoring jobs." (Source: The Gazette, 6/11/10)
· Peter Marathas, a compliance adviser who spoke to Maryland employers about the federal plan, said, “there’s nothing in the bill that ‘fixes the spiraling cost of care’ and it still will leave some people uninsured, contrary to the stated purpose of the law.” (Source: marylandreporter.com 9/24/10)
Unfunded Medicaid Mandate
· Washington’s government-run health care includes an unfunded Medicaid expansion mandate which will put more pressure on Maryland’s budget, which already faces $6 billion in out-year deficits. Even without this mandate, Maryland only has 86% of the revenue needed to pay for its expenditures.
· The Heritage Foundation has estimated that under a federal mandate to expand Medicaid to adults, Maryland would see its Medicaid rolls swell by as much as 41.3 percent.
· The growth in Medicaid spending is already contributing to Maryland’s budget problems and the federally-mandated expansion will only worsen this situation.
Individual And Employer Mandates
· Government Mandates: Martin O’Malley even supports the individual and employer mandates which forces Marylanders and Maryland businesses to purchase health care whether they want to or not. Washington’s employer mandate will hit Marylanders job-creators hard, penalizing companies that don’t provide full time employees with insurance.
· Hurting Small Business: Former Director of the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, Douglas W. Elmendorf, concludes that the taxes enacted through the employer mandate will cost businesses $52 billion from 2014 thru 2019.
· Hurting Employees: The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has reported the employer mandate will encourage businesses that do not provide full-time employees insurance to cut hours and salaried positions. Washington’s individual mandate will hit Marylanders hard and break a promise not to raise taxes on middle class Americans.
The Bottom Line
· Bob Ehrlich will fight to protect Marylanders from this unconstitutional O’Malley-backed overreach by the federal government. He understands the difference between what we want and what we can afford. This version of government-run health care is simply too expensive for America and for Maryland.
· Whether it is the debate over mass transit, the use of federal stimulus funds, or government-run health care, Martin O’Malley will promise Maryland voters anything – and send them the bill later.
· To actually move Maryland forward we need a governor who isn’t afraid to say no to things we cannot afford and that includes Washington’s government-run health care.
· Bob Ehrlich is the only responsible candidate in this race honest enough to deliver the truth to Marylanders about what we can afford and how to create jobs for families.
Illegal Immigrants Canvassing For Votes
Illegal immigrants go door-to-door in the Seattle area, trying to get naturalized citizens to cast a ballot for candidates like Democratic Sen. Patty Murray
GO HERE to read more.
GO HERE to read more.
Former Georgetown Basketball Standout Shot In Bowie
WASHINGTON - A former Georgetown University basketball star and former NBA player was shot in Bowie Thursday, sources tell WTOP.
Charles E. Smith IV was shot in a home on the 13200 block of Landale's Hope Way around 12:20 p.m. Thursday. Smith was taken to an area hospital where he is listed in critical but stable condition.
GO HERE to read more.
Charles E. Smith IV was shot in a home on the 13200 block of Landale's Hope Way around 12:20 p.m. Thursday. Smith was taken to an area hospital where he is listed in critical but stable condition.
GO HERE to read more.
MVA Lax On Suspending Driver’s Licenses, Auditors Find -- Along With Many Other Problems
GO HERE to read more.
Proposed Solar Power Regulations Cloud Savings For Consumers
“Our intent was very clear,” Pinsky said. “We wanted to promote renewable energy. And to allow someone to stand in our way, it is shameless.”
The law was intended to allow Marylanders with their own generation systems to profit if they made more energy than they could use. But the proposed rules scheduled for a hearing Tuesday could wind up costing them money.
GO HERE to read more.
Burlington Coat Factory Pays $10 Million To Fendi Over Memory Lapse
In the 1980s, discount retailer Burlington Coat Factory -- where all the cool kids got their two-toned jeans when I was in middle school -- got snagged selling faux Fendi bags. As part of its settlement with the Italian luxury brand, the Factory agreed to never sell anything with the Fendi name again without the label's permission. Unfortunately, someone forgot about that agreement and now Burlington has to pony up $10 million to Fendi.
More »
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Shoplifter Forced To Dress As Bert, Carry "I Got Caught Shoplifting At Halloween Express" Sign
Talk about a punishment that suits the crime. More »
TWO HIGHWAY WORKERS STRUCK AND KILLED IN CHARLES CO.
(Waldorf, MD) – Maryland State Police are continuing to investigate the single-vehicle crash that took the lives of two highway workers in Charles County early this afternoon.
The victims are preliminarily identified as Marlon E. C. Lorenzo, 28, of the 2300-block of Glenmont Circle, Silver Spring, Md., and Erick T. M. Alvarado, 24, of 2000-block of Evans Parkway, Silver Spring. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver is identified as Yuri M. F. Vielot Jr., 24, of the 7000-block of Highview Terrace, Hyattsville, Md. He was driving a 2004 Volkswagen Touareg.
Shortly after 1:30 p.m. today, Maryland State Police from the La Plata Barrack responded to westbound Rt. 228, just east of Bensville Road, for the report of a traffic crash. When they arrived, troopers found a crash scene that covered both directions of travel on Rt. 228, so the entire highway had to be closed.
The Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to the scene to conduct a detailed crash investigation and reconstruction. State Highway Administration personnel responded to set up traffic detours around the area. Deputies from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office assisted with traffic at the scene.
The preliminary investigation indicates Vielot was driving westbound on Rt. 228 approaching Bensville Road, when he apparently fell asleep. A witness following him said his vehicle moved off the left side of the roadway and into the median. Vielot struck a large highway sign, then struck the two victims who were part of a three person team working in the median. The third man was not struck by the vehicle and was not injured.
The victims were part of a highway work team contracted by the State Highway Administration. They had mowed the grass in the median and along the shoulders and were picking up trash when they were struck. Both victims were wearing fluorescent green highway safety vests when they were struck.
Vielot remained at the scene after the crash. He was transported as a precaution to Ft. Washington Hospital, where he was examined and released.
No charges have been filed at this time, but are pending. Upon completion, the Maryland State Police detailed crash reconstruction and investigation will be presented to the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office for review and consultation concerning charges.
Both east and westbound Rt. 228 were reopened shortly after 5:30 p.m. today. The investigation is continuing.
The victims are preliminarily identified as Marlon E. C. Lorenzo, 28, of the 2300-block of Glenmont Circle, Silver Spring, Md., and Erick T. M. Alvarado, 24, of 2000-block of Evans Parkway, Silver Spring. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver is identified as Yuri M. F. Vielot Jr., 24, of the 7000-block of Highview Terrace, Hyattsville, Md. He was driving a 2004 Volkswagen Touareg.
Shortly after 1:30 p.m. today, Maryland State Police from the La Plata Barrack responded to westbound Rt. 228, just east of Bensville Road, for the report of a traffic crash. When they arrived, troopers found a crash scene that covered both directions of travel on Rt. 228, so the entire highway had to be closed.
The Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to the scene to conduct a detailed crash investigation and reconstruction. State Highway Administration personnel responded to set up traffic detours around the area. Deputies from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office assisted with traffic at the scene.
The preliminary investigation indicates Vielot was driving westbound on Rt. 228 approaching Bensville Road, when he apparently fell asleep. A witness following him said his vehicle moved off the left side of the roadway and into the median. Vielot struck a large highway sign, then struck the two victims who were part of a three person team working in the median. The third man was not struck by the vehicle and was not injured.
The victims were part of a highway work team contracted by the State Highway Administration. They had mowed the grass in the median and along the shoulders and were picking up trash when they were struck. Both victims were wearing fluorescent green highway safety vests when they were struck.
Vielot remained at the scene after the crash. He was transported as a precaution to Ft. Washington Hospital, where he was examined and released.
No charges have been filed at this time, but are pending. Upon completion, the Maryland State Police detailed crash reconstruction and investigation will be presented to the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office for review and consultation concerning charges.
Both east and westbound Rt. 228 were reopened shortly after 5:30 p.m. today. The investigation is continuing.
New Edition Of "Working Together For Children" Now Airing On PAC 14
The latest edition of "Working Together for Children" will begin airing at 6:30 Thursday, Oct. 21 on PAC 14 (Comcast Channel 14). The show is currently scheduled to air tonight, at noon Saturday and throughout the next month. Visit pac14.org for additional times.
This show features an interview with George Whitehead of Salisbury's Promise on the fourth 100 Best Communities For Young People Award for Salisbury and Wicomico County, and Salisbury City Administrator John Pick on Salisbury being named an All America City. Also featured on the show is an interview on the 20/20 reading initiative, with Dr. Carolyn Johnston, supervisor of reading for Wicomico Schools and chair of the Wicomico County Reading Committee, and Patricia Blevins, coordinator of reading for Wicomico Schools. "The Reading Song," written by Pinehurst Elementary teachers John Cox and Derek Perdue for the 20/20 initiative, is accompanied by video of students at Pinehurst and at Pittsville Elementary and Middle reading. A Safe Walk to School event at Salisbury Middle School is also highlighted.
"Working Together for Children" airs regularly at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays and noon Saturdays; check the Programming grid at www.pac14.org for additional times. PAC 14 also streams its programming live on its web site at www.pac14.org, so viewers can visit the web site to "tune in" on line when the show is on the air. "Working Together for Children" is produced monthly by the Wicomico County Public Schools for broadcast to the community on PAC 14. For further information or to give feedback, please contact Dr. Faye Wilson at 410-677-4529 or fwilson@wcboe.org.
This show features an interview with George Whitehead of Salisbury's Promise on the fourth 100 Best Communities For Young People Award for Salisbury and Wicomico County, and Salisbury City Administrator John Pick on Salisbury being named an All America City. Also featured on the show is an interview on the 20/20 reading initiative, with Dr. Carolyn Johnston, supervisor of reading for Wicomico Schools and chair of the Wicomico County Reading Committee, and Patricia Blevins, coordinator of reading for Wicomico Schools. "The Reading Song," written by Pinehurst Elementary teachers John Cox and Derek Perdue for the 20/20 initiative, is accompanied by video of students at Pinehurst and at Pittsville Elementary and Middle reading. A Safe Walk to School event at Salisbury Middle School is also highlighted.
"Working Together for Children" airs regularly at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays and noon Saturdays; check the Programming grid at www.pac14.org for additional times. PAC 14 also streams its programming live on its web site at www.pac14.org, so viewers can visit the web site to "tune in" on line when the show is on the air. "Working Together for Children" is produced monthly by the Wicomico County Public Schools for broadcast to the community on PAC 14. For further information or to give feedback, please contact Dr. Faye Wilson at 410-677-4529 or fwilson@wcboe.org.
Lowering Of The Maryland State Flag To Half Staff
Officer Thomas R. Portz, Jr.
This is to advise you that Governor Martin O’Malley has ordered the Maryland State Flag flown at half staff immediately. This is in memory of, Officer Thomas R. Portz, Jr. of the Baltimore City Police Department, who died yesterday in the line of duty. The flag shall continue to be flown at half staff until sunset on the day of the funeral. This office will send an additional notice when the date of the funeral is released.
This action is taken under the Protocol for the United States and Maryland State Flag. Any questions on the above should be directed to the Office of the Secretary of State.
(NESP) Kickoff
Neighborhood Empowerment &
Stabilization Program (NESP) Kickoff
Princeton Homes Area to Benefit
The City of Salisbury wishes to announce the kick off of a new program.
One component of Mayor Ireton’s Safe Streets Initiative is utilization of Section 15.24.110 of the Salisbury Property Maintenance Code, specifically, Periodic Area Search. Under that provision, the Housing Official may designate specific areas of the city which are in need of inspection. These inspections are based upon:
1. The passage of time since the last inspection of the structures or premises;
2. The age of the structures in the area;
3. The condition of the structures in the area;
4. Evidence of blighted conditions;
5. Evidence of past violations
.
The City of Salisbury will be selecting neighborhoods to provide an increased presence of:
1. Department of Public Works services including, street sweeping, free bulk pickup and cleaning of alleyways, storm drains, sewers, etc.
2. Fire and Life Safety Inspections – Salisbury Fire Department and NSCC Code Enforcement Officers
3. Informative brochures and pamphlets i.e. Center for Conflict Resolution, Wicomico County Family Partnership, Wicomico County Library
4. Access to public officials including Police, Fire and Code Enforcement
All residents, tenants and owners, are encouraged to allow housing inspectors and fire officials to perform property maintenance and life safety inspections during this time. Renters must understand that they are entitled to safe, clean and adequate housing.
"Our Safe Streets Coalition continues to march forward to improve the integrity of our city. The Code Compliance Department, which is our first line of defense against slum and blight, are the unsung heroes of our city. In tandem with Public Works, Salisbury Fire Department, and Salisbury Police Department, our Safe Streets Coalition – NSCC is being proactive in our neighborhoods. The city gives its pledge to improve the delivery of services in the targeted areas. The city looks forward to partnering with residents, including tenants and property owners, in our efforts to improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods" said Mayor Ireton.
The NESP program will take place the week of Tuesday, October 26, 2010 through Friday, October 29, 2010. To kick off the NESP program the Mayor will host a press conference Monday, October 25, 2010 at 2:00 pm at the Princeton Service Center, 117 Princeton Avenue. Please attend if you are able.
In unison with the recent opening of the Princeton Avenue Neighborhood Service Center; the area identified for initial effort is within the boundaries of:
- North boundary: Princeton Ave.
- South boundary: E. College Ave.
- West boundary: S. Division St.
- East boundary: Spring Ave.
Streets Included:
- Cecil St., Margaret St., Marion St., John St., & Carrolton Ave., and part of Roger St.
Stabilization Program (NESP) Kickoff
Princeton Homes Area to Benefit
The City of Salisbury wishes to announce the kick off of a new program.
One component of Mayor Ireton’s Safe Streets Initiative is utilization of Section 15.24.110 of the Salisbury Property Maintenance Code, specifically, Periodic Area Search. Under that provision, the Housing Official may designate specific areas of the city which are in need of inspection. These inspections are based upon:
1. The passage of time since the last inspection of the structures or premises;
2. The age of the structures in the area;
3. The condition of the structures in the area;
4. Evidence of blighted conditions;
5. Evidence of past violations
.
The City of Salisbury will be selecting neighborhoods to provide an increased presence of:
1. Department of Public Works services including, street sweeping, free bulk pickup and cleaning of alleyways, storm drains, sewers, etc.
2. Fire and Life Safety Inspections – Salisbury Fire Department and NSCC Code Enforcement Officers
3. Informative brochures and pamphlets i.e. Center for Conflict Resolution, Wicomico County Family Partnership, Wicomico County Library
4. Access to public officials including Police, Fire and Code Enforcement
All residents, tenants and owners, are encouraged to allow housing inspectors and fire officials to perform property maintenance and life safety inspections during this time. Renters must understand that they are entitled to safe, clean and adequate housing.
"Our Safe Streets Coalition continues to march forward to improve the integrity of our city. The Code Compliance Department, which is our first line of defense against slum and blight, are the unsung heroes of our city. In tandem with Public Works, Salisbury Fire Department, and Salisbury Police Department, our Safe Streets Coalition – NSCC is being proactive in our neighborhoods. The city gives its pledge to improve the delivery of services in the targeted areas. The city looks forward to partnering with residents, including tenants and property owners, in our efforts to improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods" said Mayor Ireton.
The NESP program will take place the week of Tuesday, October 26, 2010 through Friday, October 29, 2010. To kick off the NESP program the Mayor will host a press conference Monday, October 25, 2010 at 2:00 pm at the Princeton Service Center, 117 Princeton Avenue. Please attend if you are able.
In unison with the recent opening of the Princeton Avenue Neighborhood Service Center; the area identified for initial effort is within the boundaries of:
- North boundary: Princeton Ave.
- South boundary: E. College Ave.
- West boundary: S. Division St.
- East boundary: Spring Ave.
Streets Included:
- Cecil St., Margaret St., Marion St., John St., & Carrolton Ave., and part of Roger St.
NPR Fires Juan Williams For Muslim Remarks On Fox
NPR terminated the contract of Juan Williams on Wednesday after comments the veteran journalist and news analyst made about Muslims on Fox's "The O'Reilly Factor."
Fox News host Bill O'Reilly stirred up controversy last week on "The View" after making the blanket statement that "Muslims killed us on 9/11," a comment that led to co-hosts Joy Behar and Whoopi Goldberg walking off the set.
GO HERE to read more.
Fox News host Bill O'Reilly stirred up controversy last week on "The View" after making the blanket statement that "Muslims killed us on 9/11," a comment that led to co-hosts Joy Behar and Whoopi Goldberg walking off the set.
GO HERE to read more.
AFP-Maryland Kicks Off “NOW Or NEVER Maryland” Bus Tour Friday
-Three day tour will stop at a dozen rallies around state to advocate free market issues-
ANNAPOLIS – The Maryland chapter of Americans for Prosperity will kick off the “NOW or NEVER Maryland” bus tour tomorrow in Berlin, MD at 8am. The bus will stop at a dozen rallies around the state over a three day period to advocate for free market policies and educate citizens on where lawmakers stand on important issues.
“If Marylanders do not rally for freedom now, they should be prepared to never have it again,” said AFP-Maryland state director Dave Schwartz. “Over the last year the government has taken over our health care, lawmakers have created record-high deficits and our state budget is out of control. The big-government ideas have failed. Citizens of Maryland deserve an alternative – less taxes, a friendlier business climate to create jobs and a government that is more responsive to those who fund it.”
Details of the “NOW or NEVER Maryland” bus tour, along with the locations and times of each stop, can be found at www.NowOrNeverMD.com. Confirmed speakers at the various rallies include: former US Senate candidate Jim Rutledge, Congressional candidate and TEA Party activist Charles Lollar, former Maryland first lady Kendel Ehrlich and AFP National President Tim Phillips.
Eastern Shore Rallies (Friday, October 22nd):
8am – Gull Creek Community Center – Berlin
Noon – Kiwanis Pavillion @ City Park – Salisbury
3pm – Old Lowe’s Parking Lot – Easton
6pm – Courthouse Square – Centreville
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