HARRISBURG, Pa. – Auditor General Jack Wagner said that state government could save taxpayers up to $381 million annually by offering all commonwealth workers a voluntary severance package similar to the successful program he offered his own employees this past summer.
The Department of the Auditor General saved $1.5 million when 50 workers, or 7.5 percent of the Department of the Auditor General's workforce of 665, chose to participate in Wagner's Voluntary Retirement Incentive Program. The goals of the program were to reduce department costs to meet budget constraints and reduce the number of involuntary furloughs. The program was so successful that enough employees accepted the incentive eliminating the need for furloughs.
Wagner said his program, if offered to all state employees, could produce taxpayer savings of up to $381 million, assuming a participation rate of 7 percent of the state's total workforce of 77,168.
“State government has grown too big and Pennsylvania taxpayers can no longer afford it,” Wagner said. “With Pennsylvania facing a budget deficit of $4 billion to $5 billion next year, it's time to institute a voluntary retirement incentive program that would shrink the state payroll and reduce the cost of state government to taxpayers.”
Wagner, the state's independent fiscal watchdog, said that his financial stewardship of the Department of the Auditor General should serve as a role model for state government. During his 5 1/2-year tenure, Wagner has reduced the size and cost of his department while continuing to produce award-winning audits that have highlighted hundreds of millions of dollars in potential savings to taxpayers. At about $44 million, the department’s current budget is almost $2 million less in the current fiscal year than when Wagner took office in January 2005. These savings were achieved through various measures, including a reduction in the department’s auto fleet, reduced travel expenses and the elimination of overnight trips. The department’s workforce has been reduced from 755 employees in January 2005 to its current 615 -- without any furloughs.
Wagner offered management and, with cooperation from the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, union employees of the Department of the Auditor General a one-time voluntary retirement incentive in July of this year.
The 50 workers who accepted the incentive received $1,000 for each year of service, up to a maximum of $25,000, and left employment with the department on or before Sept. 3, 2010.
There are currently 77,168 salaried employees under the governor’s jurisdiction who are earning an average total compensation of $70,478, including salary and benefits. If 7 percent of the workforce were to accept the voluntary retirement incentive, there would be 5,402 retirees, and based on projected savings of $37,200 per employee (after incentive and leave payouts), the state would save $201 million the first year. In the second year, if those 5,402 positions are not filled, the state would save $381 million.
“These are significant savings that the state can realize on an annual basis,” Wagner said. “Rather than repeatedly raising the spectre of state employee furloughs to address budget shortfalls, I urge the governor, the general assembly, and future governors to offer their employees a voluntary retirement incentive, which would provide greater cost savings in the long run.”
(Source)
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
OCPD GRADUATES 27th CITIZENS POLICE ACADEMY CLASS
During this course, students meet a variety of officers to learn about
criminal law, traffic enforcement, evidence collection, firearms, arrest procedures, narcotics enforcement and many other topics. Students also participate in practical scenarios, which afford citizens hands-on opportunity to understand various law enforcement applications.
“Educating citizens about their police department and illegal activity in their community is one of the best forms of crime prevention,” said OCPD Chief Bernadette DiPino. “Not only does the Citizens Police Academy allow residents the opportunity to learn about how the OCPD operates, but it also gives them a close look inside the lives of our police officers.”
For more information about the Citizens Police Academy or to receive an application, please contact the OCPD Public Affairs Office at 410.520.5395.
COMING SOON TO A STORE NEAR YOU
So far the companies that have already committed to ALL DAY bell ringing are:
Ocean Pines Kiwanis
Wicomico Senior High National Honor Society
PRMC
Pohanka every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the entire season at Sam's Club.
Salisbury Automotive
Affordable Business Systems
Knights of Columbus
Perdue
Salisbury Sunrise Rotary
Queen City Lodge
Wicomico Democratic Club
Perdue School of Business
Living Stones Church
Hanna, Kreamer Tilghman
First Shore Federal - Pocomoke
Robinson's Family of Businesses
We can't thank you enough for participating. More to come.....
U.S. Gives $150 Mil To Palestinian Authority
The United States will give an additional $150 million to the Palestinian Authority as Washington seeks to boost the fledgling government amid an impasse in peace talks with Israel, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said on Wednesday.
Clinton made the announcement in a joint video conference with Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad, who has been scrambling to fill a huge projected budget hole as his government expands services in expectation of full eventual statehood.
More here
[Not that we don't have a 'huge projected budget hole' of our own to fill, but this way we can also insult our ally Israel in the process-- Editor]
Clinton made the announcement in a joint video conference with Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad, who has been scrambling to fill a huge projected budget hole as his government expands services in expectation of full eventual statehood.
More here
[Not that we don't have a 'huge projected budget hole' of our own to fill, but this way we can also insult our ally Israel in the process-- Editor]
Fruitland - Percentages Comparison Yearly Crime Stats
Chief Philips mentioned burglaries last night, 80% of them in the past month have been solved and the final one unsolved will be solved in a matter of days.
You can click on the top image to enlarge it and see just what Fruitland is up against. The gentleman being sworn in recently got out of the Marine Corps. Happy Birthday Marine and thank you for your continued support.
Num, Num, But Arsenic Makes My Cheeks So Rosie
Now we have a group out there that adds, because of the arsenic, we're polluting the Bay. Heck, my horses taking a leak on the ground without a septic system are affecting the Bay. The last thing we need right now are more regulations on the Chicken Farmers/Industry. Unless there is severely strong evidence that people are not only dying from arsenic but are also turning up extremely sick from this claim, I say, bull crap!
Leave the Chicken Farmers/Industry alone. We watched interview after interview where both democrats and republicans stood firm on less regulations and no sooner are these elections over, a group comes out doing just the opposite. My guess is, this will fall flat on its face. It's a shame we gave it any attention at all.
A Cowboy Named Bud
A cowboy named Bud was overseeing his herd, in a remote mountainous pasture in California, when suddenly a brand-new BMW advanced toward him out of a cloud of dust.
The driver, a young man in a Brioni suit, Gucci shoes, RayBan sunglasses and YSL tie, leaned out the window and asked the cowboy, "If I tell you exactly how many cows and calves you have in your herd, Will you give me a calf?"
The driver, a young man in a Brioni suit, Gucci shoes, RayBan sunglasses and YSL tie, leaned out the window and asked the cowboy, "If I tell you exactly how many cows and calves you have in your herd, Will you give me a calf?"
Bud looks at the man, obviously a yuppie, then looks at his peacefully grazing herd, and calmly answers, "Sure, Why not?"
The yuppie parks his car, whips out his Dell notebook computer, connects it to his RAZR V3 cell phone, and surfs to a NASA page on the Internet, where he calls up a GPS satellite to get an exact fix on his location, which he then feeds to another NASA satellite, that scans the area in an ultra-high-resolution photo.
The young man then opens the digital photo in Adobe Photoshop and exports it to an image processing facility in Hamburg , Germany ...
Within seconds, he receives an email on his Palm Pilot that the image has been processed and the data stored. He then accesses an MS-SQL database through an ODBC connected Excel spreadsheet with email, on his Blackberry and, after a few minutes, receives his response.
Finally, he prints out a full-color, 150-page report on his hi-tech, miniaturized HP LaserJet printer, turns to the cowboy and says, "You have exactly 1,586 cows and calves.."
"That's right. Well, I guess you can take one of my calves," says Bud.
He watches the young man select one of the animals and looks on with amusement as the young man stuffs it into the trunk of his car.
Then Bud says to the young man, "Hey, if I can tell you exactly what your business is, will you give me back my calf?"
The young man thinks about it for a second and then says, "Okay, why not?"
"You're a Congressman for the U.S. Government", says Bud.
"Wow! That's correct," says the yuppie, "but how did you guess that?"
"No guessing required." answered the cowboy. "You showed up here even though nobody called you; you want to get paid for an answer I already knew, to a question I never asked. You used millions of dollars worth of equipment trying to show me how much smarter than me you are; and you don't know a thing about how working people make a living - or about cows, for that matter. This is a herd of sheep. .......
Now give me back my dog.
Sharing The Road Today Has A Whole New Meaning
When that same rider refuses to move over and get out of the way, oh boy, that really ticks people off. We are seeing more and more of this on our major roadways, especially in the Salisbury area. What do YOU think should be done about this?
A Letter To The Editor
IT’S ANOTHER IRETON TEMPER TANTRUM – LIVE & IN LIVING COLOR!
I’m not a fan of "Stu" Leer, but realize that he has a right to speak in criticism of the City of Salisbury’s administration by its mayor. Mr. Leer did so, strongly and pointedly, during the public comment at the City Council’s meeting this week – until Jim Ireton interrupted him, suddenly and rudely. The Council’s president, Louise Smith, asked Ireton to desist because he was speaking out-of-order, but he persisted and, when he began carping at her, Ms. Smith called a recess.
At that point, Jim-Beau stormed out of the council chambers, in the process telling Ms. Smith that he would get his revenge on her "next spring." Do you think he was referring to her potential reelection campaign?
Ireton’s parting shot may not have been heard by the PAC 14 audience, but those at the meeting heard it loud and clear.
By the time that this episode ended, Mr. Leer looked like the cat that ate the canary. His pushing Ireton’s button caused the latter to erupt, not just play the arrogant buffoon role that has become routine.
There’s an appropriate word to describe this performance by Salisbury’s CEO: "embarrassing."
Ireton’s meltdowns on TV have now become repetitive, which increases the widespread public perception (begun under Barrie Tilghman) that Salisbury is a town run by a clown.
Mr. Leer, who was one of the "Dirty Dozen" that brought down Barrie, may soon have another mayoral trophy to hang on his wall.
I’m not a fan of "Stu" Leer, but realize that he has a right to speak in criticism of the City of Salisbury’s administration by its mayor. Mr. Leer did so, strongly and pointedly, during the public comment at the City Council’s meeting this week – until Jim Ireton interrupted him, suddenly and rudely. The Council’s president, Louise Smith, asked Ireton to desist because he was speaking out-of-order, but he persisted and, when he began carping at her, Ms. Smith called a recess.
At that point, Jim-Beau stormed out of the council chambers, in the process telling Ms. Smith that he would get his revenge on her "next spring." Do you think he was referring to her potential reelection campaign?
Ireton’s parting shot may not have been heard by the PAC 14 audience, but those at the meeting heard it loud and clear.
By the time that this episode ended, Mr. Leer looked like the cat that ate the canary. His pushing Ireton’s button caused the latter to erupt, not just play the arrogant buffoon role that has become routine.
There’s an appropriate word to describe this performance by Salisbury’s CEO: "embarrassing."
Ireton’s meltdowns on TV have now become repetitive, which increases the widespread public perception (begun under Barrie Tilghman) that Salisbury is a town run by a clown.
Mr. Leer, who was one of the "Dirty Dozen" that brought down Barrie, may soon have another mayoral trophy to hang on his wall.
Fruitland City Council Repeals Sign Ordinance
I don't care what anyone says, the City of Fruitland is in very good hands with this new Council. If only Salisbury could take notes of how to act and respect the wishes of the citizens like Fruitland does. Excuse me, I was in a wonderful dream but I have now woken up to reality.
Crime Doesn't Pay At WalMart In Salisbury
What Are You Doing For Veterans?
"Joe, there are many things going on for the vets in the next couple of days. I was wondering if you could use your great investigative skills and find out what businesses are honoring our veterans. I can start you off: Apple bees are offering a free dinner to the vets, outback is offering a free blooming onion. a carwash on embrown Dr is offering a free car wash, Monday November 15 from 5 -9 golden coral is offering a free meal for vets. Not to mention all the ceremonies going on. I just thought it would be nice to let the vets who in there neighborhood is honoring. God knows they deserve it."
Novak: God Bless The Tea Party
I doubt that what happened in the United States on November 2 could have occurred in any European country. In fact, it was almost unprecedented in the United States.
No president in American history has ever been so thoroughly discredited after two years as Barack Obama. When Pres. Bill Clinton’s party lost 54 seats in 1994, that number was shockingly high. But in 2010, the Democrats have lost at least 60 seats in the House (the branch closest to the people) and six in the Senate. Counting as allies some conservative Democrats, the Senate Republicans, while slightly less numerous than Democrats, might emerge with a working majority, though not the two-thirds necessary to override a veto.
In his first two years, the president convinced many millions of Americans that he wants to make the U.S. more like European welfare states. The American people hate the very idea, and they simply rebelled.
What is most striking about this election is the rising up of a huge popular movement with virtually no visible national leader — a movement spontaneously arising out of the refusal to lose the country our Founding Fathers (Washington, Adams, Jefferson, and the others) built solidly on certain fixed, eternal principles: firm principles about the dignity and responsibility before God of every woman and man, about the freedom of the economy from State management (but not from necessary State regulation), and about the universal opportunity of every citizen to rise as far as their talents and hard work will take them.
President Obama pays obeisance to these principles, but his heart is not in it. He mainly trusts government, national government, one powerful central government. The record of his two years in office is repellent — and many, many Americans simply refuse to march in that direction. The Democrats have controlled everything for two years, and their leadership, with too much left-wing enthusiasm, allowed President Obama to take the bit into his mouth and run pell-mell toward the European model.
He could not get all that far, in this deeply whig country. “Whig” is a way of saying “the party of liberty,” the party of personal responsibility, the party of economic opportunity and personal creativity, the party fiercely committed to the defense of liberty (whence the eagle as our national symbol, the eagle with seven arrows in one claw and a large olive branch in the other). The whig tendency in America has always been suspicious of government (as the source of most abuses of human rights, as inefficient, as a breeding ground of corruption). The Whig party, transformed into the new Republican party after 1856, became the party that abolished slavery, and is alive and well today in the Tea Party movement. It is the party of the individual — not the atomized individual, the individual alone, but the civic individual in free cooperation with other individuals.
Keep reading >>
No president in American history has ever been so thoroughly discredited after two years as Barack Obama. When Pres. Bill Clinton’s party lost 54 seats in 1994, that number was shockingly high. But in 2010, the Democrats have lost at least 60 seats in the House (the branch closest to the people) and six in the Senate. Counting as allies some conservative Democrats, the Senate Republicans, while slightly less numerous than Democrats, might emerge with a working majority, though not the two-thirds necessary to override a veto.
In his first two years, the president convinced many millions of Americans that he wants to make the U.S. more like European welfare states. The American people hate the very idea, and they simply rebelled.
What is most striking about this election is the rising up of a huge popular movement with virtually no visible national leader — a movement spontaneously arising out of the refusal to lose the country our Founding Fathers (Washington, Adams, Jefferson, and the others) built solidly on certain fixed, eternal principles: firm principles about the dignity and responsibility before God of every woman and man, about the freedom of the economy from State management (but not from necessary State regulation), and about the universal opportunity of every citizen to rise as far as their talents and hard work will take them.
President Obama pays obeisance to these principles, but his heart is not in it. He mainly trusts government, national government, one powerful central government. The record of his two years in office is repellent — and many, many Americans simply refuse to march in that direction. The Democrats have controlled everything for two years, and their leadership, with too much left-wing enthusiasm, allowed President Obama to take the bit into his mouth and run pell-mell toward the European model.
He could not get all that far, in this deeply whig country. “Whig” is a way of saying “the party of liberty,” the party of personal responsibility, the party of economic opportunity and personal creativity, the party fiercely committed to the defense of liberty (whence the eagle as our national symbol, the eagle with seven arrows in one claw and a large olive branch in the other). The whig tendency in America has always been suspicious of government (as the source of most abuses of human rights, as inefficient, as a breeding ground of corruption). The Whig party, transformed into the new Republican party after 1856, became the party that abolished slavery, and is alive and well today in the Tea Party movement. It is the party of the individual — not the atomized individual, the individual alone, but the civic individual in free cooperation with other individuals.
Keep reading >>
Homeschooler Heads To Congress
The politically active homeschooling movement is celebrating the election to Congress of one of its own, Republican Jaime Herrera, who will represent Southwest Washington state in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The daughter of a high school teacher raised in poverty in Southern California who moved his family north to Ridgefield, Wash., Herrera was homeschooled through the ninth grade.
"My parents taught me God first, family second and service to community a close third," she wrote in a letter to precinct committee officers when she was seeking appointment to a vacant seat in the Washington state Legislature.
"Those were the values of our region, too: personal responsibility, a strong work ethic," Herrera said in an interview with The Columbian daily of Vancouver, Wash.
Her parents, Armando and Candice Herrera, adopted the three children of Armando's brother to rescue them from the influence of drugs and gangs in Southern California, the paper said. In 2006, through their church, the children became involved in gang prevention.
Herrera celebrated her 32nd birthday last week along with her Nov. 2 victory over Democrat Danny Heck, 53 percent to 47 percent.
Her campaign office said she is out of the country at the moment and unavailable for comment.
Homeschoolers were active nationwide in the mid-term elections, with a division of the Homeschool Legal Defense Association called Generation Joshua deploying 900 students in 21 races.
The Student Action Teams, or SATs, of about 45 or 50 were sent out five days before the election. In previous elections, they have worked for candidates such as Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., Gov. Bobby Jindal of Louisiana, Gov. Bob McDonnel of Virginia and Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn.
Daniel Webster, a homeschooling father, who was infamously smeared by opponent Rep. Alan Grayson, D-Fla., as "Taliban Dan," was a beneficiary of Generation Joshua's Florida efforts last week. Webster defeated Grayson by 18 points.
Herrera, meanwhile, was vying for an open seat in Washington state's 3rd District currently held by Democratic Rep. Brian Baird. Herrera's strong challenge prompted the White House to dispatch Vice President Joe Biden to the district.
More here
The daughter of a high school teacher raised in poverty in Southern California who moved his family north to Ridgefield, Wash., Herrera was homeschooled through the ninth grade.
"My parents taught me God first, family second and service to community a close third," she wrote in a letter to precinct committee officers when she was seeking appointment to a vacant seat in the Washington state Legislature.
"Those were the values of our region, too: personal responsibility, a strong work ethic," Herrera said in an interview with The Columbian daily of Vancouver, Wash.
Her parents, Armando and Candice Herrera, adopted the three children of Armando's brother to rescue them from the influence of drugs and gangs in Southern California, the paper said. In 2006, through their church, the children became involved in gang prevention.
Herrera celebrated her 32nd birthday last week along with her Nov. 2 victory over Democrat Danny Heck, 53 percent to 47 percent.
Her campaign office said she is out of the country at the moment and unavailable for comment.
Homeschoolers were active nationwide in the mid-term elections, with a division of the Homeschool Legal Defense Association called Generation Joshua deploying 900 students in 21 races.
The Student Action Teams, or SATs, of about 45 or 50 were sent out five days before the election. In previous elections, they have worked for candidates such as Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., Gov. Bobby Jindal of Louisiana, Gov. Bob McDonnel of Virginia and Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn.
Daniel Webster, a homeschooling father, who was infamously smeared by opponent Rep. Alan Grayson, D-Fla., as "Taliban Dan," was a beneficiary of Generation Joshua's Florida efforts last week. Webster defeated Grayson by 18 points.
Herrera, meanwhile, was vying for an open seat in Washington state's 3rd District currently held by Democratic Rep. Brian Baird. Herrera's strong challenge prompted the White House to dispatch Vice President Joe Biden to the district.
More here
House GOP To Push For School Vouchers
Despite the opposition of the incoming D.C. mayor and the Democratic president, key House Republican lawmakers say they will push a popular school-voucher program that was canceled by the Obama administration.
A spokeswoman for Rep. John Kline, Minnesota Republican and likely chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee, said her boss and other House leaders continue to support the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship program and intend to pursue its revival.
"Congressman Kline is very focused on restoring the program," spokeswoman Alexa Marrero said.
She added that presumptive House Speaker-to-be John A. Boehner and Rep. Darrell Issa, incoming chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, which oversees D.C. affairs, also "remain strong supporters" of the D.C. voucher program.
Advocates "can count on" Rep. Jason Chaffetz, Utah Republican and the ranking member on the Oversight and Government Reform subcommittee that oversees the District of Columbia, to push for re-funding vouchers, said his spokeswoman, Alisia Essig.
In 2009, Mr. Chaffetz co-sponsored Mr. Boehner's Preserving D.C. Student Scholarships Act, which would have re-funded the Opportunity Scholarships program, she added.
In 2004, the Bush administration established the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship program to provide economically disadvantaged students up to $7,500 in tuition to attend private and religious schools of their parents choosing. But President Obama wanted to direct federal dollars elsewhere, and Congress obliged by prohibiting new students from enrolling in the program.
Local school-choice advocates said Mr. Obama opened wide the door for a renewed push for vouchers when, in post-election comments last week, he said that education is one area where he and Republicans might find "potential common ground" in expanding the voucher program to aid children trapped in underperforming D.C. schools.
More details
A spokeswoman for Rep. John Kline, Minnesota Republican and likely chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee, said her boss and other House leaders continue to support the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship program and intend to pursue its revival.
"Congressman Kline is very focused on restoring the program," spokeswoman Alexa Marrero said.
She added that presumptive House Speaker-to-be John A. Boehner and Rep. Darrell Issa, incoming chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, which oversees D.C. affairs, also "remain strong supporters" of the D.C. voucher program.
Advocates "can count on" Rep. Jason Chaffetz, Utah Republican and the ranking member on the Oversight and Government Reform subcommittee that oversees the District of Columbia, to push for re-funding vouchers, said his spokeswoman, Alisia Essig.
In 2009, Mr. Chaffetz co-sponsored Mr. Boehner's Preserving D.C. Student Scholarships Act, which would have re-funded the Opportunity Scholarships program, she added.
In 2004, the Bush administration established the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship program to provide economically disadvantaged students up to $7,500 in tuition to attend private and religious schools of their parents choosing. But President Obama wanted to direct federal dollars elsewhere, and Congress obliged by prohibiting new students from enrolling in the program.
Local school-choice advocates said Mr. Obama opened wide the door for a renewed push for vouchers when, in post-election comments last week, he said that education is one area where he and Republicans might find "potential common ground" in expanding the voucher program to aid children trapped in underperforming D.C. schools.
More details
Miller Sues As Write-In Ballot Count About To Begin In Alaska
Republican Joe Miller has filed a lawsuit in an attempt to prevent state elections officials from counting write-in ballots that don't accurately spell Sen. Lisa Murkowski's (R-Alaska) full name.
The Tea Party favorite wants a judge to bar the state division of elections from weighing voter intent with write-in ballots that contain a variation or misspelling of Murkowski's name.
Miller's attorney, Thomas Van Flein, who was also former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's attorney, wants a hearing Wednesday afternoon.
The lawsuit comes after Miller made up ground in Tuesday's count of some 27,000 absentee votes. Miller netted around 2,100 votes, according to updated totals from the division of elections. Currently, the number of write-in votes leads Miller's vote total by 11,333 votes.
Despite the lawsuit, elections officials plan to begin sorting and then counting the ballots at 1 p.m. EST on Wednesday.
More here
The Tea Party favorite wants a judge to bar the state division of elections from weighing voter intent with write-in ballots that contain a variation or misspelling of Murkowski's name.
Miller's attorney, Thomas Van Flein, who was also former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's attorney, wants a hearing Wednesday afternoon.
The lawsuit comes after Miller made up ground in Tuesday's count of some 27,000 absentee votes. Miller netted around 2,100 votes, according to updated totals from the division of elections. Currently, the number of write-in votes leads Miller's vote total by 11,333 votes.
Despite the lawsuit, elections officials plan to begin sorting and then counting the ballots at 1 p.m. EST on Wednesday.
More here
Room At The Top? Not For New Dems
A younger generation of Democrats is chafing at being asked to stand aside and let a triumvirate of elders keep their leadership positions in the wake of a catastrophic midterm election result.
Barring an unexpected shake-up, House Democrats next year will be led by a combination of Nancy Pelosi (Calif.), Steny Hoyer (Md.) and James Clyburn (S.C.) — lawmakers who are 70 or older and have served in Congress for decades.
Most rank-and-file Democrats would have been happy with these leaders had their party retained its majority in the 112th Congress, but the loss of the House and at least 60 seats led many to anticipate a changing of the guard.
“It is inescapable that the message that was sent by the American people is they want a change in direction. And a change in direction means a change in leadership,” Rep. Jason Altmire (D-Pa.) said on Fox News last week.
Democratic Reps. Xavier Becerra (Calif.), Chris Van Hollen (Md.), Joseph Crowley (N.Y.) and Diana DeGette (Colo.), among others, were all seen as top contenders to move up but have found themselves in limbo as Pelosi locks down the minority-leader post and Hoyer and Clyburn vie for whip. Becerra is trying to hold on to the vice chairmanship of the caucus, while Van Hollen, the campaign chief appointed by Pelosi as assistant to the Speaker, is for now on the outside looking in.
None of those lawmakers has complained publicly about being shut out, but other Democrats have warned that the party risks ignoring a message from voters if they keep the same leaders in place.
“We can’t let them sit on the bench for too much longer,” one Democratic aide said, referring to the party’s younger lawmakers. “There’s a push to add in some new ideas and new faces and new energy.”
Another aide said the old guard’s stranglehold on the Democratic upper ranks has caused grumbling among younger members.
More
Barring an unexpected shake-up, House Democrats next year will be led by a combination of Nancy Pelosi (Calif.), Steny Hoyer (Md.) and James Clyburn (S.C.) — lawmakers who are 70 or older and have served in Congress for decades.
Most rank-and-file Democrats would have been happy with these leaders had their party retained its majority in the 112th Congress, but the loss of the House and at least 60 seats led many to anticipate a changing of the guard.
“It is inescapable that the message that was sent by the American people is they want a change in direction. And a change in direction means a change in leadership,” Rep. Jason Altmire (D-Pa.) said on Fox News last week.
Democratic Reps. Xavier Becerra (Calif.), Chris Van Hollen (Md.), Joseph Crowley (N.Y.) and Diana DeGette (Colo.), among others, were all seen as top contenders to move up but have found themselves in limbo as Pelosi locks down the minority-leader post and Hoyer and Clyburn vie for whip. Becerra is trying to hold on to the vice chairmanship of the caucus, while Van Hollen, the campaign chief appointed by Pelosi as assistant to the Speaker, is for now on the outside looking in.
None of those lawmakers has complained publicly about being shut out, but other Democrats have warned that the party risks ignoring a message from voters if they keep the same leaders in place.
“We can’t let them sit on the bench for too much longer,” one Democratic aide said, referring to the party’s younger lawmakers. “There’s a push to add in some new ideas and new faces and new energy.”
Another aide said the old guard’s stranglehold on the Democratic upper ranks has caused grumbling among younger members.
More
ACORN Bankruptcy Filing Raises New Questions And Concerns
While the rest of the nation was out voting last Tuesday, ACORN -- the major voter registration organization in cities and among the poor -- was quietly filing for bankruptcy in a Brooklyn, N.Y., courthouse a few blocks from its main office.
But despite the bankruptcy filing, many of the group's critics remain suspicious of the community organizers' intentions.
Court documents show that ACORN -- the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now -- suffered a massive loss of public support over the past two years, and that the group and six affiliates now are more than $8.6 million in debt and have only $218,709 in cash.
According to the filings, ACORN took in $46.1 million in 2008. That dropped to $16.2 million last year, and contributions dwindled to just $1.57 million in the first 10 months of this year.
GO HERE to read more.
School Nutrition Bill Could Be Revived In Congress
WASHINGTON – First lady Michelle Obama's campaign for healthier school lunches could be revived in Congress after two key Democrats said they will drop opposition to using funding from food stamps to pay for it.
Reps. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut and Jim McGovern of Massachusetts have said they will support House passage of a $4.5 billion child nutrition bill that passed the Senate earlier this year. Backed by some anti-hunger groups, the two lawmakers led opposition to passage of that version before the election because it is partially paid for with $2.2 billion taken from future funding for food stamp programs.
Since then, a push from the White House, which promised to help restore the food-stamp money, and political reality after the midterm elections — the bill would probably not fare as well when Republicans take over the House in January — appear to have softened opposition.
DeLauro said Tuesday that she is willing to support the legislation, which would improve lunches in schools and expand feeding programs for low-income students, with the food stamp cuts because Democrats will have a better opportunity when Congress returns to use another piece of legislation to try to restore the money and increase access to feeding programs for hungry kids.
"The view was that before the election, we couldn't get (those) two pieces we wanted to get," she said.
GO HERE to read more.
Is The Fed's Debt-Buying Unconstitutional?
Is the Federal Reserve violating the U.S. Constitution’s separation of powers with its new purchases of $600 billion worth of U.S. Treasuries? Is the Fed engaging in an unconstitutional monetization of the U.S. Congress' out of control spending spree that is really a bridge loan to fiscal insanity?
At minimum, should the Fed be avoiding these purchases until the fiscally debauched U.S. Congress, packed to the ceiling with fiscal dipsomaniacs, follows Great Britain’s lead in its fiscal abstinence that may "out Thatcher" even Margaret Thatcher, as a top Dallas Fed official says?
Isn’t the problem fiscal incontinence and regulatory misfeasance, and business uncertainty about all of that, which is creating joblessness? Not a lack of liquidity and not deflation, which is not a clear and present danger, as instead inflation is still with us?
And isn’t the Fed dangerously habituating the stock, bond and commodities markets to a “new normal” of constant quantitative easing?
GO HERE to read more.
'Arizona Style' Immigration Law Proposed In Texas
Less than an hour after the period began for filing bills for consideration in the 2011 Legislative session, State Rep. Debbie Riddle (R-Tomball), a leader of the newly-muscular conservatives in the Legislature, filed an 'Arizona style' measure that would crack down on illegal immigration, 1200 WOAI news reports.
Riddle says her measure is a response to what she says is the escalating violence caused by Mexican and Latin American gangs in Texas.
"It is absolutely out of control with the gang related crime, which is going through the roof, so, yes, we are addressing this, and quite frankly, I am not worried about political correctness," Riddle told 1200 WOAI news.
The measure would be similar to Arizona's controversial SB 1070, in that it would require that local police work with federal immigration officials in determining the legal status of a person who is in their custody.
"If that individual is already being detained, because of another crime, then that officer can inquire as to one's immigration status," Riddle said.
The Arizona law has been placed on hold pending a court challenge. Riddle says her measure would help it withstand similar legal challenges.
Republicans will hold 99 of the 150 seats in the Texas House when the biennial session is gaveled into order January 11th, the largest GOP majority in the Texas House in 140 years. The conservative landslide last week is expected to result in several measures on the conservative wish list which have been killed by Democrats and moderate Republicans being passed in the coming legislature.
Riddle's measure would also deny all state funds to any community which declares itself a 'sanctuary city' and refuses to aggressively enforce immigration laws.
"The gang related crime which does have a connect with the Mexican drug cartels has gone up 250 percent in this state," Riddle said.
"People are sick and tired of political correctness. They want their communities safe." Read more
Riddle says her measure is a response to what she says is the escalating violence caused by Mexican and Latin American gangs in Texas.
"It is absolutely out of control with the gang related crime, which is going through the roof, so, yes, we are addressing this, and quite frankly, I am not worried about political correctness," Riddle told 1200 WOAI news.
The measure would be similar to Arizona's controversial SB 1070, in that it would require that local police work with federal immigration officials in determining the legal status of a person who is in their custody.
"If that individual is already being detained, because of another crime, then that officer can inquire as to one's immigration status," Riddle said.
The Arizona law has been placed on hold pending a court challenge. Riddle says her measure would help it withstand similar legal challenges.
Republicans will hold 99 of the 150 seats in the Texas House when the biennial session is gaveled into order January 11th, the largest GOP majority in the Texas House in 140 years. The conservative landslide last week is expected to result in several measures on the conservative wish list which have been killed by Democrats and moderate Republicans being passed in the coming legislature.
Riddle's measure would also deny all state funds to any community which declares itself a 'sanctuary city' and refuses to aggressively enforce immigration laws.
"The gang related crime which does have a connect with the Mexican drug cartels has gone up 250 percent in this state," Riddle said.
"People are sick and tired of political correctness. They want their communities safe." Read more
Netanyahu Confronts Anti-Israel Propaganda In U.S.
Why would Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu travel to the U.S. while President Obama was out of the country?
His latest U.S. visit appears to be part of a broad effort to stem the rising tide of anti-Israel sentiment, which is increasingly embedding itself in America, traditionally Israel's staunchest ally.
During several scheduled stops on his U.S. trip, Netanyahu countered the rising anti-Israel propaganda by restating the facts on the ground.
His visit began with an hour-long meeting with Vice President Joe Biden Sunday evening in New Orleans, followed on Monday by an address to the Jewish Federation of America's General Assembly.
The prime minister also met with Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal and United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon. He will meet with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton later in the week.
At each venue, Netanyahu reiterated Israel's position vis-Ã -vis the peace process and addressed broad-based efforts to delegitimize the Jewish state.
"We must fight these lies and slanders together to ensure that truth prevails," he told those gathered at at the General Assembly.
On Monday evening, Netanyahu asked U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to speak out against UNESCO's recent attempt to erase the historical Jewish connection to Rachel's Tomb near Bethlehem and the Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hevron - the burial place of Israel's patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and their spouses, Sarah, Rebecca, Leah, and Rachel.
UNESCO - United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization - recently designated both sites as mosques, claiming they are located in the "occupied Palestinian territories," a statement Netanyahu called "absurd."
"The Jewish nation has a deep connection to (these sites) for close to 4,000 years," he told the secretary-general.
"More than a billion people recognize this connection, which is documented in the Bible," he said, urging Ban not to "distort historical facts" to curry political favor.
"It will only harm the U.N.'s standing and the manner in which serious people treat it around the world," Netanyahu said.
Ban's spokesperson responded, saying the designation is vital to break "the current diplomatic stalemate, resume negotiations, and produce results." More
His latest U.S. visit appears to be part of a broad effort to stem the rising tide of anti-Israel sentiment, which is increasingly embedding itself in America, traditionally Israel's staunchest ally.
During several scheduled stops on his U.S. trip, Netanyahu countered the rising anti-Israel propaganda by restating the facts on the ground.
His visit began with an hour-long meeting with Vice President Joe Biden Sunday evening in New Orleans, followed on Monday by an address to the Jewish Federation of America's General Assembly.
The prime minister also met with Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal and United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon. He will meet with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton later in the week.
At each venue, Netanyahu reiterated Israel's position vis-Ã -vis the peace process and addressed broad-based efforts to delegitimize the Jewish state.
"We must fight these lies and slanders together to ensure that truth prevails," he told those gathered at at the General Assembly.
On Monday evening, Netanyahu asked U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to speak out against UNESCO's recent attempt to erase the historical Jewish connection to Rachel's Tomb near Bethlehem and the Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hevron - the burial place of Israel's patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and their spouses, Sarah, Rebecca, Leah, and Rachel.
UNESCO - United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization - recently designated both sites as mosques, claiming they are located in the "occupied Palestinian territories," a statement Netanyahu called "absurd."
"The Jewish nation has a deep connection to (these sites) for close to 4,000 years," he told the secretary-general.
"More than a billion people recognize this connection, which is documented in the Bible," he said, urging Ban not to "distort historical facts" to curry political favor.
"It will only harm the U.N.'s standing and the manner in which serious people treat it around the world," Netanyahu said.
Ban's spokesperson responded, saying the designation is vital to break "the current diplomatic stalemate, resume negotiations, and produce results." More
Netanyahu: Jerusalem Is Not A Settlement
“Jerusalem is not a settlement, it is the capital of Israel,” Prime Minister Binyamin's office said Tuesday in response to foreign criticism of construction in Jewish neighborhoods of Jerusalem located to the east of the 1949 armistice line.
Netanyahu rejected claims that construction in Jerusalem affects Israel's chance of coming to an agreement with the Palestinian Authority. “Israel does not see any connection between the peace process and the policy of planning and construction in Jerusalem, which has not changed in 40 years,” the statement read.
Israel has built in “every part of the city” for the past 40 years, and during that time signed peace agreements with Egypt and Jordan and held direct talks with PA leaders for many years, Netanyahu reminded the world. “Construction in Jerusalem has never interfered with the peace process,” he noted.
The statement came as Netanyahu is visiting the United States, where he will meet with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Thursday. Earlier in the day U.S. President Barack Obama criticized Israel's approval of Jerusalem construction from Indonesia. “This kind of activity is never helpful when it comes to peace negotiations,” he said.
On Monday, U.S. officials said they were “deeply disappointed” by the Jerusalem building project.
More
Netanyahu rejected claims that construction in Jerusalem affects Israel's chance of coming to an agreement with the Palestinian Authority. “Israel does not see any connection between the peace process and the policy of planning and construction in Jerusalem, which has not changed in 40 years,” the statement read.
Israel has built in “every part of the city” for the past 40 years, and during that time signed peace agreements with Egypt and Jordan and held direct talks with PA leaders for many years, Netanyahu reminded the world. “Construction in Jerusalem has never interfered with the peace process,” he noted.
The statement came as Netanyahu is visiting the United States, where he will meet with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Thursday. Earlier in the day U.S. President Barack Obama criticized Israel's approval of Jerusalem construction from Indonesia. “This kind of activity is never helpful when it comes to peace negotiations,” he said.
On Monday, U.S. officials said they were “deeply disappointed” by the Jerusalem building project.
More
Illegals Made Democrat Governor In Connecticut?
Connecticut's lame-duck attorney general and new senator-elect, Richard Blumenthal, is obligated to investigate credible accusations of voter fraud that linger in the state's gubernatorial election – including possible illegal alien voting – despite Republican candidate Tom Foley's concession yesterday to Democratic opponent Dannel Malloy, charges the GOP's attorney general candidate in last Tuesday's election, Martha Dean
Dean, who is considering further legal action challenging the eligibility of her victorious Democratic opponent, argued Blumenthal is sworn to uphold the federal and state constitutions, making it his obligation to investigate voter fraud "without regard to whether it has been requested or approved by the secretary of state."
Foley supports continued investigation of the allegations but has concluded "there was no credible evidence of fraudulent voting" that would have altered the result.
Allegations include extended voting hours in Democratic-stronghold Bridgeport announced illegally through the reverse 911 system, unattended bags of ballots, ballots photocopied without supervision and union workers leaving replica ballots in polling booths with Democratic candidates checked off.
But amid the numerous reported allegations, little has been said about the possibility that illegal aliens decided a gubernatorial race in which the candidates officially were separated by just 5,810 votes out of more than 1 million cast, Dean told WND.
Dean noted that both the mayors of New Haven and Hartford have declared their cities "sanctuary cities" for illegal aliens. She pointed out that over the past three years, New Haven has issued ID cards to about 15,000 people, ostensibly to enable them to use public services such as the library.
New Haven, Dean argued, has allowed people registering to vote to use the ID cards as proof of identification. Read more >>
Dean, who is considering further legal action challenging the eligibility of her victorious Democratic opponent, argued Blumenthal is sworn to uphold the federal and state constitutions, making it his obligation to investigate voter fraud "without regard to whether it has been requested or approved by the secretary of state."
Foley supports continued investigation of the allegations but has concluded "there was no credible evidence of fraudulent voting" that would have altered the result.
Allegations include extended voting hours in Democratic-stronghold Bridgeport announced illegally through the reverse 911 system, unattended bags of ballots, ballots photocopied without supervision and union workers leaving replica ballots in polling booths with Democratic candidates checked off.
But amid the numerous reported allegations, little has been said about the possibility that illegal aliens decided a gubernatorial race in which the candidates officially were separated by just 5,810 votes out of more than 1 million cast, Dean told WND.
Dean noted that both the mayors of New Haven and Hartford have declared their cities "sanctuary cities" for illegal aliens. She pointed out that over the past three years, New Haven has issued ID cards to about 15,000 people, ostensibly to enable them to use public services such as the library.
New Haven, Dean argued, has allowed people registering to vote to use the ID cards as proof of identification. Read more >>
Lawmakers Vow To Spare Millions From AMT
Leaders from both parties in Congress vowed Tuesday to spare more than 21 million taxpayers from significant tax increases when they file their returns next spring by adjusting the alternative minimum tax before the end of the year.
The tax was first enacted in 1969 to make sure higher-income taxpayers could not use deductions and credits to avoid paying any federal income tax. The income limits, however, were not indexed for inflation, so Congress routinely fixes the AMT each year to spare millions of middle income taxpayers from tax increases that would average about $3,900.
Congress hasn't made the change for 2010. In a letter to the IRS, Democratic and Republican leaders of the tax-writing congressional committees said they would address the issue after Congress returns next week in a lame-duck session.
The letter is a bipartisan gesture on taxes just days before Congress takes up the much larger issue of extending tax cuts enacted under former President George W. Bush. The Bush tax cuts expire at the end of the year. Congress returns next week, and the tax cuts are among the top issues lawmakers will face.
More
The tax was first enacted in 1969 to make sure higher-income taxpayers could not use deductions and credits to avoid paying any federal income tax. The income limits, however, were not indexed for inflation, so Congress routinely fixes the AMT each year to spare millions of middle income taxpayers from tax increases that would average about $3,900.
Congress hasn't made the change for 2010. In a letter to the IRS, Democratic and Republican leaders of the tax-writing congressional committees said they would address the issue after Congress returns next week in a lame-duck session.
The letter is a bipartisan gesture on taxes just days before Congress takes up the much larger issue of extending tax cuts enacted under former President George W. Bush. The Bush tax cuts expire at the end of the year. Congress returns next week, and the tax cuts are among the top issues lawmakers will face.
More
Congress Report Concedes Obama Eligibility Unvetted
A congressional document posted on the Internet confirms no one – not Congress, not the states and not election officials – bothered to check Barack Obama's eligibility to be president, and that status remains undocumented to this day.
It's because state and federal law did not require anyone in Congress or elsewhere to check to see if Obama was a "natural born Citizen" under the meaning of Article 2, Section 1 of the Constitution, according the document.
The analysis by the Congressional Research Service, a research arm of the U.S. Congress, openly admits no one in the federal government, including Congress, ever asked to see Obama's long-form, hospital-generated birth certificate. It explains no one was required to do so.
Technically, the CRS is a public policy research arm of the United States Congress that is organized as a legislative branch agency within the Library of Congress; the CRS works exclusively for members of Congress, congressional committees and congressional staff in an advisory capacity, answering questions. The CRS memorandum, published and distributed to congressional offices April 3, 2009, was written to explain to senators and members of the House how they could answer constituents who were demanding to see Obama's birth certificate.
Authored by Jack Maskell, the legislative attorney in the American Law Division of the Congressional Research Service, the document was a memorandum written for the subject "Qualifications for the Office of President of the United States and Legal Challenges to the Eligibility of a Candidate"
Maskell confirmed to WND that the document is authentic.
It states:
"Concerning the production or release of an original birth certificate, it should be noted that there is no federal law, regulation, rule, guideline, or requirement that a candidate for federal office produce his or her original birth certificate, or a certified copy of the record of live birth, to any official of the United States government; nor is there a requirement for federal candidates to publicly release such personal record or documentation. Furthermore, there is no specific federal agency or office that 'vets' candidates for federal office as to qualifications or eligibility prior to return."
More on this
It's because state and federal law did not require anyone in Congress or elsewhere to check to see if Obama was a "natural born Citizen" under the meaning of Article 2, Section 1 of the Constitution, according the document.
The analysis by the Congressional Research Service, a research arm of the U.S. Congress, openly admits no one in the federal government, including Congress, ever asked to see Obama's long-form, hospital-generated birth certificate. It explains no one was required to do so.
Technically, the CRS is a public policy research arm of the United States Congress that is organized as a legislative branch agency within the Library of Congress; the CRS works exclusively for members of Congress, congressional committees and congressional staff in an advisory capacity, answering questions. The CRS memorandum, published and distributed to congressional offices April 3, 2009, was written to explain to senators and members of the House how they could answer constituents who were demanding to see Obama's birth certificate.
Authored by Jack Maskell, the legislative attorney in the American Law Division of the Congressional Research Service, the document was a memorandum written for the subject "Qualifications for the Office of President of the United States and Legal Challenges to the Eligibility of a Candidate"
Maskell confirmed to WND that the document is authentic.
It states:
"Concerning the production or release of an original birth certificate, it should be noted that there is no federal law, regulation, rule, guideline, or requirement that a candidate for federal office produce his or her original birth certificate, or a certified copy of the record of live birth, to any official of the United States government; nor is there a requirement for federal candidates to publicly release such personal record or documentation. Furthermore, there is no specific federal agency or office that 'vets' candidates for federal office as to qualifications or eligibility prior to return."
Soros Group Wants Obama To Rule By Executive Order
It was progressives who won the mid-term elections, particularly incumbents in a socialist-founded congressional caucus that emerged from last week's ballots virtually unscathed, boasted an article published by the George Soros-funded Institute for Policy Studies, a Marxist-oriented think-tank in Washington, D.C.
The article recommends that President Obama govern from executive order to push through a progressive agenda.
"Progressives won in the 2010 mid-term elections," wrote Karen Dolan, a fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies, or IPS, and director of the Cities for Progress and Cities for Peace projects based at the radical organization.
"The Congressional Progressive Caucus, the largest caucus in the House Democratic Caucus at over 80 members, emerged virtually unscathed, losing only three members," she wrote, in the piece published on the IPS website.
"By contrast, the conservative Blue Dog Democratic caucus was more than sliced in half from 54 members to only 26. Further, of the 34 conservative Dems who voted against Obama's Healthcare Reform, a mere 12 won re-election," she wrote.
[Must be some of that 'new math' we've heard about--- Editor]More here
The article recommends that President Obama govern from executive order to push through a progressive agenda.
"Progressives won in the 2010 mid-term elections," wrote Karen Dolan, a fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies, or IPS, and director of the Cities for Progress and Cities for Peace projects based at the radical organization.
"The Congressional Progressive Caucus, the largest caucus in the House Democratic Caucus at over 80 members, emerged virtually unscathed, losing only three members," she wrote, in the piece published on the IPS website.
"By contrast, the conservative Blue Dog Democratic caucus was more than sliced in half from 54 members to only 26. Further, of the 34 conservative Dems who voted against Obama's Healthcare Reform, a mere 12 won re-election," she wrote.
[Must be some of that 'new math' we've heard about--- Editor]More here
O'Malley: Don't Put Off Pension Obligations
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Maryland's huge pension problem should be front and center in this upcoming legislative session, Gov. Martin O'Malley said Tuesday, as officials who oversee the state's system made recommendations to a panel of state lawmakers.
O'Malley described the state's unfunded pension obligations, which add up to roughly $33 billion, as one of Maryland's biggest challenges to maintaining fiscal responsibility.
"Figuring out a solution to these things is something that is going to, I think, require all of our attention, especially as we go into this next session, so I don't think it's the sort of thing that can be deferred down the road."
The governor noted that parts of the solution may need to be implemented over time, but he said he favors addressing the matter right from the start of the next four-year term, because the longer the problem is put off the greater it will become.
GO HERE to read more.
O'Malley described the state's unfunded pension obligations, which add up to roughly $33 billion, as one of Maryland's biggest challenges to maintaining fiscal responsibility.
"Figuring out a solution to these things is something that is going to, I think, require all of our attention, especially as we go into this next session, so I don't think it's the sort of thing that can be deferred down the road."
The governor noted that parts of the solution may need to be implemented over time, but he said he favors addressing the matter right from the start of the next four-year term, because the longer the problem is put off the greater it will become.
GO HERE to read more.
GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY TO ADDRESS NEW ECONOMY AND PATHWAY TO MOVE MARYLAND FORWARD
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley will address students, faculty, and other attendees today at Towson University, where he will discuss moving Maryland forward in education, our environment, and Maryland’s new economy.
Governor O’Malley’s commitment in 2006 was to make government work again for the people of our State. Since then, Governor O’Malley has instituted StateStat, the Governor’s Delivery Unit, and a series of innovative reforms to make our State government more accountable and efficient.
The O’Malley-Brown Administration’s 15 strategic and visionary goals to improve the quality of life in Maryland require state agencies to align state and federal resources to achieve measurable results. The goals reflect the challenges and opportunities we face as a state in the 21st Century, including our ability to transition into a new economy.
Governor O’Malley will appear at Towson University with former Attorney General Joe Curran, a regular lecturer at the school.
Happy 235th Birthday U.S. Marine Corps
When asked about the ACLU's charges, Colonel Jack Fessender, speaking for the Commandant of the Corps said (cleaned up a bit), "Screw the ACLU." GOD Bless Our Warriors. Send the ACLU to France !
Please send this to people you know so everyone will know how stupid the ACLU is getting in trying to remove GOD from everything and every place in America May God Bless America , One Nation Under GOD!
Pentagon Can't Explain 'Missile' Off California
WASHINGTON — The Pentagon said Tuesday it did not know what created a vapor trail that crossed the skies off the Southern California coast and resembled a missile launch.
Video posted on the CBS News website shows an object flying through the evening sky Monday that left a large contrail, or vapor trail. A news helicopter owned by KCBS, a CBS affiliate in Los Angeles, shot the video.
Pentagon officials were stumped by the event. "Nobody within the Department of Defense that we've reached out to has been able to explain what this contrail is, where it came from," Pentagon spokesman Col. Dave Lapan said.
While the vapor cloud captured on video resembled that created by a rocket in flight, military officials said they didn't know of any launches in the area.
One expert called it an optical illusion. "It's an airplane that is heading toward the camera and the contrail is illuminated by the setting sun," said John Pike, director of the U.S.-based security analyst group globalsecurity.org.
The North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD, issued a statement jointly with the U.S. Northern Command, or NORTHCOM, saying no Department of Defense entities reported a missile launch — scheduled or inadvertent — at the time of the contrail, and no foreign military missile launch was detected.
GO HERE to read more.
One Of A LEO's Worst Nightmares
Routine traffic stop in Montana
A routine traffic stop in Montana turns ugly. Turn up your computer volume.
Listen for the first "click" as the driver points the gun at the trooper....a .41 magnum revolver. The "click" is the hammer dropping on an already fired round in the cylinder. The second round was live! A lucky trooper indeed!
The suspect was shot in the back while driving away and died on scene after crashing.
Observe the speed at which the trooper draws his weapon and fires... Accurately!
http://billingsgazette.com/news/state-and-regional/Montana/vmix_cdf93fba-47ca-11df-9f5c-001cc4c002e0.HTML
A routine traffic stop in Montana turns ugly. Turn up your computer volume.
Listen for the first "click" as the driver points the gun at the trooper....a .41 magnum revolver. The "click" is the hammer dropping on an already fired round in the cylinder. The second round was live! A lucky trooper indeed!
The suspect was shot in the back while driving away and died on scene after crashing.
Observe the speed at which the trooper draws his weapon and fires... Accurately!
http://billingsgazette.com/news/state-and-regional/Montana/vmix_cdf93fba-47ca-11df-9f5c-001cc4c002e0.HTML
Maryland Health Insurers Worry About Federal Health Care Reform
Acting Maryland Insurance Commissioner Beth Sammis told the Joint Committee on Health Care Delivery and Financing that because Maryland already has many of the federal requirements in place before the 2014 timeline for full implementation of the act, “in many areas there will be no change in premiums.”
GO HERE to read more.
Home Depot Lovers Keep Spamming Comments On My Blog
Corporate guerrilla marketing efforts are getting more sophisticated, as well as more annoying. A Consumerist-reading blogger is under constant commenting attack from either paid Home Depot plants or a well-organized squadron of people with a lot of spare time on their hands who really, really love to defend the big box chain's honor. And who share the same IP address.
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Why Does US Have Worst Fatality Rate From Kidney Dialysis?
Just about anyone diagnosed with kidney failure can get their kidney dialysis fully covered under Medicare. So why are taxpayers paying $20 billion a year for a program that lets 25% of the patients die within a year, the worst fatality rate of the first world? Why do only two chains run 2/3 of all clinics? And why won't the government release important data that could improve the quality of care? An investigation in The Atlantic probes this issue in depth.
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FDIC Seizes 4 More Banks
The FDIC seized four more banks on Friday. That brings the total number for 2010 to 143, the most in a year since the S&L fiasco back in the 80's. Here's who went down:
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A Message From Dustin Mills
Dear Friends,
Having taken the time to reflect upon the election, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support. Although the election did not go quite as I would have liked, I am pleased with the effort put forth and I know that we worked hard. However, nothing I did would have been possible without the support of many people. They are too many to name, but they know who they are. Without my team, and those who supported me, I would never have come close to getting as many votes as I did. I also wanted to thank everyone who voted for me. I know you believe in what I had to say and I only wish we could have done more. Even though I did not win, I look forward to continuing the fight for what is right in Maryland. I will continue to work hard to make Maryland better and I hope everyone will work with me. I am humbled by your confidence in me and thank you for voting for me. Let us continue to work hard and we will make Maryland a better place!
Thank You,
Dustin Mills
Mayor Ireton Marks 100 Days Since Safe Streets Package Introduced, Mrs. Smith Denies Council Worksession
Mayor Thanks Emergency Action Partnership, Demands More
“Today marks 100 days since my administration delivered the Safe Streets Legislative Package to Salisbury City Council President Louise Smith. Over this time I can point to citizens and neighborhood leaders who have asked Mrs. Smith to put this legislation on a council work session. She has failed to do so. I have been asked to compromise on some points of the legislation, yet that is not my job. It is the job of the city council, in a work session, to take up these points. Yet, Mrs. Smith has failed to move the legislation forward. Mrs. Smith started her own committee, the Emergency Action Partnership, separate from our Crime Task Force and Safe Streets Coalition; two groups that have never seen Mrs. Smith in attendance at meetings. She did so with SAPOA members leading her group. Naturally, the partnership makes no mention of slum and blight or the cost the citizens of Salisbury pay, over and over, for servicing blighted properties. Recently, in Princeton Homes, our Neighborhood Services code enforcement officers found 606 code violations. Those violations, and their continued cost to the taxpayers, would be addressed if Safe Streets was passed. Though the city is ready to accept ideas from Mrs. Smith’s SAPOA led action committee, my administration will not shy away from the commitment’s made to the citizens in the Safe Streets Legislative Package. Addressing slum and blight, holding slum properties accountable, and ending legal uses of non-conforming structures will change Salisbury for the better. I am on the side of making Salisbury a safer place, not tinkering around the edges and hoping nobody notices code violations at properties. The council was asked to pass the legislative package by Thanksgiving. Again, Mrs. Smith’s council is not on target to get any of this done. That being said I will not let citizens forget, especially in the spring 2011 election, who supported the Safe Streets plan, and who did not. I encourage residents of Salisbury to contact Mrs. Smith and demand a public hearing on my 2010 Safe Streets Legislative Package”
“Today marks 100 days since my administration delivered the Safe Streets Legislative Package to Salisbury City Council President Louise Smith. Over this time I can point to citizens and neighborhood leaders who have asked Mrs. Smith to put this legislation on a council work session. She has failed to do so. I have been asked to compromise on some points of the legislation, yet that is not my job. It is the job of the city council, in a work session, to take up these points. Yet, Mrs. Smith has failed to move the legislation forward. Mrs. Smith started her own committee, the Emergency Action Partnership, separate from our Crime Task Force and Safe Streets Coalition; two groups that have never seen Mrs. Smith in attendance at meetings. She did so with SAPOA members leading her group. Naturally, the partnership makes no mention of slum and blight or the cost the citizens of Salisbury pay, over and over, for servicing blighted properties. Recently, in Princeton Homes, our Neighborhood Services code enforcement officers found 606 code violations. Those violations, and their continued cost to the taxpayers, would be addressed if Safe Streets was passed. Though the city is ready to accept ideas from Mrs. Smith’s SAPOA led action committee, my administration will not shy away from the commitment’s made to the citizens in the Safe Streets Legislative Package. Addressing slum and blight, holding slum properties accountable, and ending legal uses of non-conforming structures will change Salisbury for the better. I am on the side of making Salisbury a safer place, not tinkering around the edges and hoping nobody notices code violations at properties. The council was asked to pass the legislative package by Thanksgiving. Again, Mrs. Smith’s council is not on target to get any of this done. That being said I will not let citizens forget, especially in the spring 2011 election, who supported the Safe Streets plan, and who did not. I encourage residents of Salisbury to contact Mrs. Smith and demand a public hearing on my 2010 Safe Streets Legislative Package”
EXTENSIVE ROAD WORK ON BEAGLIN PARK DRIVE AND SOUTH SCHUMAKER DRIVE STARTS ON NOVEMBER 11TH
Wicomico County will begin milling and paving operations on sections of Beaglin Park Drive and South Schumaker Drive on Thursday, November 11th. Motorists should expect single-lane traffic patterns during the construction period. The project is composed of four sections:
November 11 – November 16
Beaglin Park Drive - Route 350 (Mt. Hermon Road) to Glen Avenue
November 16 – November 18
Beaglin Park Drive - South Schumaker Drive to south end of Parkside High School property
November 18- November 19
South Schumaker Drive – Regency Drive to Beaglin Park Drive
November 22 – November 24
Beaglin Park Drive – Glen Ave south to approximately 600’ south of Hannibal Street.
County Roads officials said that all work schedules are subject to variances of weather.
Wicomico County Executive Richard M. Pollitt, Jr., said that this is another phase of the $1.8 Million road improvement grant from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, pointing out that Federal criteria dictated the selection of roads to be addressed. He also asked that motorists be patient during the roadwork and exercise caution as they drive through the area.
In Dialysis, Life-Saving Care Comes At Great Risk And Cost
Every year, more than 100,000 Americans start dialysis. One in four of them will die within 12 months—a fatality rate that is one of the worst in the industrialized world. And dialysis arguably costs more here than anywhere else. Although taxpayers cover most of the bill, the government has kept confidential clinic data that could help patients make better decisions. How did our first foray into near-universal coverage, begun four decades ago with such great hope, turn out this way? And what lessons does it hold for the future of health care reform?
Read more...
Read more...
TRAFFIC ALERT - Two Bridge Rehabilitation Projects Near Centerville Will Require Closures Through Spring 2011
Winter Work Schedule in Place to Prevent Environmental Disturbances
Centerville -- The Department of Transportation (DelDOT) announces that two bridge rehabilitation projects will require local detours and the closure of the bridges until spring 2011. These projects are being done between fall and spring to prevent environmental impacts to sensitive local species like the Bog Turtle.
The first project will replace the bridge on Old Kennett Road between the two Snuff Mill Roads, west of Centerville. The work will begin on Monday, November 15 and extend through Friday, April 15, 2011. Rehabilitation work will include the removal of the old concrete-slab bridge that rests on stone abutments, and then replacing it with a precast concrete box culvert. Additional improvements include the widening and reconstruction of the road approaches, placement of guardrail, and the addition of riprap for scour protection in the stream bed. Motorists will use Center Mill Road and Ashland School Road as a detour route.
The second project replaces the bridge on Guyencourt Road at Montchanin Road/Route 100, southeast of Centerville. The work will take place starting Monday, November 22 through Friday, April 15, 2011. This work will involve the total realignment of the intersection at Route 100 and Guyencourt Road. Additionally, this bridge will be removed and be replaced with a precast concrete structure. Riprap will be placed in the stream to prevent scour around the substructure. The posted detour will be Montchanin Road to Thompson Bridge Road and the connection of Guyencourt Road at Thompson Bridge Road.
Highlighted Events This Week In Wicomico Schools
Monday, Nov. 8
Start of 2nd Marking Period
Report cards for 1st Marking Period distributed Nov. 15
Monday, Nov. 8
Veterans Day Program
Mardela Middle and High School
Mardela Middle and High School and the Mardela Middle and High PTA will hold a Veterans Day program at 7 p.m. Nov. 8 to honor all veterans. The evening will feature guest speakers, presentations and light refreshments. 410-677-5142.
Nov. 8-12
Maryland School Psychology Week
Wicomico Schools will join in the statewide observance of the week of Nov. 8-12 as Maryland School Psychology Week. Every day, in all of Maryland’s public schools, school psychologists help to address individual student learning needs and differences, children’s social-emotional development, family-school collaboration issues, and a myriad of academic skills across all grade levels, learning styles and content areas. School psychologists are among the most unique professionals in school systems, as their skills work to bridge learning, social and emotional performance. They use different strategies to support student needs and to improve school-wide and system-wide supports. To this end, they serve on Student Support Teams, Positive Behavioral Support Teams and IEP teams, to name a few of their collaborative rolls.
Nov. 8-12, Dec. 6-10
One Man Band Curtis Blues and The History of Acoustic Delta Blues: The Roots of Rock and Hip Hop
Wicomico elementary and middle schools
Blues preservationist and one man band Curtis Blues is a talented musician and educator whose performances keep the tradition of acoustic Delta blues alive, and demonstrate for students the roots of modern rock and hip hop music. Curtis has been playing Delta blues since he was 14 years old, when he was exposed to some of the last living Delta blues masters at folk festivals. Curtis has recorded two critically acclaimed CDs and performs at blues festivals and schools in an effort to pass this precious music down to the next generation. This show demonstrates the origins of modern popular rock, country, and hip hop music from the Mississippi Delta in the 1920's to 1940's. Tracing rhythms from work songs, Curtis invites students to help demonstrate infectious blues rhythms. Curtis Blues plays a one-string Diddley Bow, a handmade box guitar, and an African gourd banjo, as well as 1928 style metal resonator guitars and wood guitars along with his harmonica, foot drum, and cymbals. By taking his instruments into the audience for a closer look, this presentation makes African American and musical history come alive for students.
Monday, Nov. 8: Prince Street (AM), Willards (1:15 p.m.)
Tuesday, Nov. 9: Beaver Run Elementary (9:15 and 10:15 a.m.), Westside Intermediate (1 and 2 p.m.)
Wednesday, Nov. 10: Westside Primary (9:30 a.m.), Charles H. Chipman Elementary (1 and 2 p.m.)
Thursday, Nov. 11: East Salisbury Elementary (9:15 a.m.) and East Salisbury/Judy Center (10:15 a.m.), Pemberton Elementary (1 and 2 p.m.)
Friday, Nov. 12: Delmar Elementary (8:30 and 9:30 a.m.), Pinehurst Elementary 1:30 p.m.
Additional Curtis Blues school shows are scheduled for the week of Dec. 6-10.
Tuesday, Nov. 9
9th annual Tri-County College Fair
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore's 9th annual Tri-County College Fair will be held from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 9 in the William P. Hytche Athletic Center. Recruiters from more than 100 colleges, universities and the Armed Services are slated to attend. High schools in the tri-county area as well as Philadelphia, New Jersey and the District of Columbia will be sending 1,500 students to the event. Junior and senior high school students, their parents and counselors can pick up literature and discuss educational opportunities with participating institutions. More than 90 colleges representing a variety of niches in higher education will participate. Specialty institutions such as Johnson & Wales University (hotel and restaurant management), the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics and the West Virginia Institute of Technology have responded along with military institutions such as the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and the Valley Forge Military College. Religious-based colleges attending are Messiah College, Methodist University and Moravian College. Some of the private colleges represented will be High Point University, Hood College, McDaniel College, Southern Vermont, Saint Augustine’s College and Washington College. Among the public institutions participating include Frostburg State University, Salisbury University, Shepherd University, Towson State University, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, West Chester University, West Virginia University and UMES. Check with your high school guidance office for information on the event. More information on the fair is also available by calling 410-651-6411, or by e-mail at tyoung@umes.edu.
Tuesday, Nov. 9
Car Seat Safety Check
Big Lots, Fruitland
Big Lots in Fruitland will host a free Car Seat Safety Check by Safe Kids Lower Shore Maryland from 3-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 9. No appointment needed. A certified technician will check to make sure your car seat or car seats are correctly installed. Why come out? Eight out of 10 car seats are installed incorrectly, and would not protect the child as well as designed in case of an accident.
Tuesday, Nov. 9, 5-7 p.m.
American Culinary Federation Contemporary Entree' Competition
Parkside High School Culinary Arts
On Tuesday, Nov. 9, Christopher Allen Tanner, CEC, WCC, CHE will present a seminar for students on "American Culinary Federation (ACF) Contemporary Entree' Competition" at Parkside High School from 5-7 p.m. Mr. Tanner is an ACF approved judge and is currently a Chef-Instructor at Schenectady County Community College in New York. Current students in the Parkside Culinary Arts program are invited to attend. Students will be able to see how a professional chef prepares for competition, proper sanitation, how to use time wisely, and proper plating technique. Other competition topics will also be discussed. For the high school students this type of exposure will enable them to better prepare for their SkillsUSA competitions later in the school year, said Tony Hilligoss, Culinary Arts instructor. This is the first time this event has been held at Parkside High School. Local chefs from the area will also be in attendance and will give the opportunity for future culinarians to make contacts in the industry. This event will also help students prepare for the ACF Competition which will take place at the Worcester Technical High School Nov. 20. 410-677-5144.
Tuesday, Nov. 9, at 7 p.m.
Board of Education Monthly Meeting
Board of Education Office
The Wicomico County Board of Education will hold its monthly meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 9, in the auditorium of the Board of Education Office in Salisbury. The agenda for the meeting is posted at http://www.wcboe.org/boe/meetings.php. 410-677-4561.
Wednesday, Nov. 10, at 9 a.m.
Veterans Day Assembly
Northwestern Elementary School
In honor of Veterans Day, Northwestern Elementary School students will attend an assembly honoring past and present members of our Armed Forces. The assembly is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 10 at 9 a.m. The assembly will begin with a formal outside presentation of the colors. Students will then come indoors to be led in a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and a group of students will sing the Star Spangled Banner and other patriotic songs. The students will honor those who have fought and are fighting for our freedom and the freedom of others. Veterans from our local American Legion posts will be in attendance to share education information about their service and will be honored and acknowledged for their sacrifice for our country. We will also have equipment on display from our local National Guard. Northwestern families are encouraged to attend. Any veterans in attendance will also be invited to visit the classroom of their child or grandchild afterwards for further small group discussions. 410-677-5808.
Thursday, Nov. 11, at 9:15 a.m.
Veterans Day Ceremony
North Salisbury Elementary School
North Salisbury Elementary School will host a Veterans Day Celebration on Thursday, Nov. 11 at 9:15 a.m. This program will honor men and women who have served our country, including those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Students are preparing for the ceremony by researching America's wars and writing handwritten invitations to a veteran in the community. Several students will take part in the program with special readings, songs, poetry, and a PowerPoint to honor all branches of the military. The school has hosted this annual celebration of Veterans Day since 2001. 410-677-5807.
Thursday, Nov. 11, at 10 a.m.
Flag Donation/Flag Ceremony
Choices Program
Representatives of the VFW will be at the Choices Program on Adventist Drive in Salisbury at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 11 for a flag ceremony. The VFW donated $500 to Choices for the purchase of flags and Veterans Day materials. On Nov. 11, the VFW will be at the school to perform a flag ceremony for students and staff and to raise the flag on the Choices flagpole. 410-677-5220.
Saturday, Nov. 13
STEM Saturday
Salisbury Middle School
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) Saturday classes will be offered throughout the 2010-11 school year for students in grades 4/5 and 6/7/8. The next STEM Saturday will be held at Salisbury Middle School from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Nov. 13, with students in grades 4-5 exploring “The Science Behind Winning” and middle schoolers working on “Robotics.” The elementary offerings are new to the STEM Saturdays schedule this year. Anyone interested in attending a STEM Saturday event must pre-register, and early registration is recommended as the courses fill up early. STEM Saturdays will also be held Jan. 15, Green Keepers: Going Green to Preserve Our World (elementary) and The Bug Detective (middle), both at Salisbury Middle; Feb. 12, The Magic of Chemistry (elementary) and Out of Sight: Bringing Astronomy Down to Earth (middle), both at Salisbury Middle; March 12, Flying Wild: Bird Science and Conservation (elementary) at Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art; Fossils of the Chesapeake: A Hands-On Exploration (middle) at Parkside High; and April 9, The Bug Detective (elementary) and The Science Behind Winning (middle), both at Salisbury Middle. For a detailed schedule and registration form, visit http://www.wcboe.org/news/510. For information contact Gretchen Boggs at 410-677-5149 or gboggs@wcboe.org.
Start of 2nd Marking Period
Report cards for 1st Marking Period distributed Nov. 15
Monday, Nov. 8
Veterans Day Program
Mardela Middle and High School
Mardela Middle and High School and the Mardela Middle and High PTA will hold a Veterans Day program at 7 p.m. Nov. 8 to honor all veterans. The evening will feature guest speakers, presentations and light refreshments. 410-677-5142.
Nov. 8-12
Maryland School Psychology Week
Wicomico Schools will join in the statewide observance of the week of Nov. 8-12 as Maryland School Psychology Week. Every day, in all of Maryland’s public schools, school psychologists help to address individual student learning needs and differences, children’s social-emotional development, family-school collaboration issues, and a myriad of academic skills across all grade levels, learning styles and content areas. School psychologists are among the most unique professionals in school systems, as their skills work to bridge learning, social and emotional performance. They use different strategies to support student needs and to improve school-wide and system-wide supports. To this end, they serve on Student Support Teams, Positive Behavioral Support Teams and IEP teams, to name a few of their collaborative rolls.
Nov. 8-12, Dec. 6-10
One Man Band Curtis Blues and The History of Acoustic Delta Blues: The Roots of Rock and Hip Hop
Wicomico elementary and middle schools
Blues preservationist and one man band Curtis Blues is a talented musician and educator whose performances keep the tradition of acoustic Delta blues alive, and demonstrate for students the roots of modern rock and hip hop music. Curtis has been playing Delta blues since he was 14 years old, when he was exposed to some of the last living Delta blues masters at folk festivals. Curtis has recorded two critically acclaimed CDs and performs at blues festivals and schools in an effort to pass this precious music down to the next generation. This show demonstrates the origins of modern popular rock, country, and hip hop music from the Mississippi Delta in the 1920's to 1940's. Tracing rhythms from work songs, Curtis invites students to help demonstrate infectious blues rhythms. Curtis Blues plays a one-string Diddley Bow, a handmade box guitar, and an African gourd banjo, as well as 1928 style metal resonator guitars and wood guitars along with his harmonica, foot drum, and cymbals. By taking his instruments into the audience for a closer look, this presentation makes African American and musical history come alive for students.
Monday, Nov. 8: Prince Street (AM), Willards (1:15 p.m.)
Tuesday, Nov. 9: Beaver Run Elementary (9:15 and 10:15 a.m.), Westside Intermediate (1 and 2 p.m.)
Wednesday, Nov. 10: Westside Primary (9:30 a.m.), Charles H. Chipman Elementary (1 and 2 p.m.)
Thursday, Nov. 11: East Salisbury Elementary (9:15 a.m.) and East Salisbury/Judy Center (10:15 a.m.), Pemberton Elementary (1 and 2 p.m.)
Friday, Nov. 12: Delmar Elementary (8:30 and 9:30 a.m.), Pinehurst Elementary 1:30 p.m.
Additional Curtis Blues school shows are scheduled for the week of Dec. 6-10.
Tuesday, Nov. 9
9th annual Tri-County College Fair
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore's 9th annual Tri-County College Fair will be held from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 9 in the William P. Hytche Athletic Center. Recruiters from more than 100 colleges, universities and the Armed Services are slated to attend. High schools in the tri-county area as well as Philadelphia, New Jersey and the District of Columbia will be sending 1,500 students to the event. Junior and senior high school students, their parents and counselors can pick up literature and discuss educational opportunities with participating institutions. More than 90 colleges representing a variety of niches in higher education will participate. Specialty institutions such as Johnson & Wales University (hotel and restaurant management), the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics and the West Virginia Institute of Technology have responded along with military institutions such as the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and the Valley Forge Military College. Religious-based colleges attending are Messiah College, Methodist University and Moravian College. Some of the private colleges represented will be High Point University, Hood College, McDaniel College, Southern Vermont, Saint Augustine’s College and Washington College. Among the public institutions participating include Frostburg State University, Salisbury University, Shepherd University, Towson State University, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, West Chester University, West Virginia University and UMES. Check with your high school guidance office for information on the event. More information on the fair is also available by calling 410-651-6411, or by e-mail at tyoung@umes.edu.
Tuesday, Nov. 9
Car Seat Safety Check
Big Lots, Fruitland
Big Lots in Fruitland will host a free Car Seat Safety Check by Safe Kids Lower Shore Maryland from 3-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 9. No appointment needed. A certified technician will check to make sure your car seat or car seats are correctly installed. Why come out? Eight out of 10 car seats are installed incorrectly, and would not protect the child as well as designed in case of an accident.
Tuesday, Nov. 9, 5-7 p.m.
American Culinary Federation Contemporary Entree' Competition
Parkside High School Culinary Arts
On Tuesday, Nov. 9, Christopher Allen Tanner, CEC, WCC, CHE will present a seminar for students on "American Culinary Federation (ACF) Contemporary Entree' Competition" at Parkside High School from 5-7 p.m. Mr. Tanner is an ACF approved judge and is currently a Chef-Instructor at Schenectady County Community College in New York. Current students in the Parkside Culinary Arts program are invited to attend. Students will be able to see how a professional chef prepares for competition, proper sanitation, how to use time wisely, and proper plating technique. Other competition topics will also be discussed. For the high school students this type of exposure will enable them to better prepare for their SkillsUSA competitions later in the school year, said Tony Hilligoss, Culinary Arts instructor. This is the first time this event has been held at Parkside High School. Local chefs from the area will also be in attendance and will give the opportunity for future culinarians to make contacts in the industry. This event will also help students prepare for the ACF Competition which will take place at the Worcester Technical High School Nov. 20. 410-677-5144.
Tuesday, Nov. 9, at 7 p.m.
Board of Education Monthly Meeting
Board of Education Office
The Wicomico County Board of Education will hold its monthly meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 9, in the auditorium of the Board of Education Office in Salisbury. The agenda for the meeting is posted at http://www.wcboe.org/boe/meetings.php. 410-677-4561.
Wednesday, Nov. 10, at 9 a.m.
Veterans Day Assembly
Northwestern Elementary School
In honor of Veterans Day, Northwestern Elementary School students will attend an assembly honoring past and present members of our Armed Forces. The assembly is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 10 at 9 a.m. The assembly will begin with a formal outside presentation of the colors. Students will then come indoors to be led in a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and a group of students will sing the Star Spangled Banner and other patriotic songs. The students will honor those who have fought and are fighting for our freedom and the freedom of others. Veterans from our local American Legion posts will be in attendance to share education information about their service and will be honored and acknowledged for their sacrifice for our country. We will also have equipment on display from our local National Guard. Northwestern families are encouraged to attend. Any veterans in attendance will also be invited to visit the classroom of their child or grandchild afterwards for further small group discussions. 410-677-5808.
Thursday, Nov. 11, at 9:15 a.m.
Veterans Day Ceremony
North Salisbury Elementary School
North Salisbury Elementary School will host a Veterans Day Celebration on Thursday, Nov. 11 at 9:15 a.m. This program will honor men and women who have served our country, including those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Students are preparing for the ceremony by researching America's wars and writing handwritten invitations to a veteran in the community. Several students will take part in the program with special readings, songs, poetry, and a PowerPoint to honor all branches of the military. The school has hosted this annual celebration of Veterans Day since 2001. 410-677-5807.
Thursday, Nov. 11, at 10 a.m.
Flag Donation/Flag Ceremony
Choices Program
Representatives of the VFW will be at the Choices Program on Adventist Drive in Salisbury at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 11 for a flag ceremony. The VFW donated $500 to Choices for the purchase of flags and Veterans Day materials. On Nov. 11, the VFW will be at the school to perform a flag ceremony for students and staff and to raise the flag on the Choices flagpole. 410-677-5220.
Saturday, Nov. 13
STEM Saturday
Salisbury Middle School
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) Saturday classes will be offered throughout the 2010-11 school year for students in grades 4/5 and 6/7/8. The next STEM Saturday will be held at Salisbury Middle School from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Nov. 13, with students in grades 4-5 exploring “The Science Behind Winning” and middle schoolers working on “Robotics.” The elementary offerings are new to the STEM Saturdays schedule this year. Anyone interested in attending a STEM Saturday event must pre-register, and early registration is recommended as the courses fill up early. STEM Saturdays will also be held Jan. 15, Green Keepers: Going Green to Preserve Our World (elementary) and The Bug Detective (middle), both at Salisbury Middle; Feb. 12, The Magic of Chemistry (elementary) and Out of Sight: Bringing Astronomy Down to Earth (middle), both at Salisbury Middle; March 12, Flying Wild: Bird Science and Conservation (elementary) at Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art; Fossils of the Chesapeake: A Hands-On Exploration (middle) at Parkside High; and April 9, The Bug Detective (elementary) and The Science Behind Winning (middle), both at Salisbury Middle. For a detailed schedule and registration form, visit http://www.wcboe.org/news/510. For information contact Gretchen Boggs at 410-677-5149 or gboggs@wcboe.org.
Coming Up Soon On The Wicomico School Calendar
Sunday, Nov. 14-Saturday, Nov. 20
American Education Week
All Wicomico County Public Schools
Schools will welcome hundreds of parents, grandparents and other guests during this year's celebration of American Education Week. This annual spotlight on public education has as its theme "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility." At the beginning of November, every student will receive a letter to bring home outlining new visitor procedures for American Education Week. The student’s family must fill out and return to the school office by Nov. 10 the Approved Visitor Form listing the people who will be allowed to visit the student at school. For the safety of all students and staff, no one who is not identified in advance as an approved visitor will be allowed to visit classrooms. For more information about American Education Week, please check with your student's school.
Monday, Nov. 15
Family CSI Night
Salisbury Middle School
On Nov. 15, Salisbury Middle will have a PTA Visitation and Family CSI Night. PTA classroom visitation will occur from 4:30-5:30 p.m., with dinner being served by our PTA from 5:30-6 p.m. Our CSI activities will run from 6-7:30 p.m. These activities will consist of two crimes scenes that students and their families can take part in solving. We will have the local police department, archaeologists and representatives of other CSI-related careers discussing what they do in the field. Last year’s second CSI night brought out some 300 students, parents and guardians to investigate a crime scene. Students solve the CSI riddle using math, science, reading, writing, problem-solving, teamwork and lab analysis skills. 410-677-5149.
Tuesday, Nov. 16, 1:42 p.m.
“Let’s Move” Workout Event
Salisbury Middle School
At 1:42 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 16, students at Salisbury Middle School will join students around the country in “Let’s Move,” an event from First Lady Michelle Obama’s campaign to keep kids active. Students at SMS will do a choreographed flash workout routine that will be televised. 410-677-5149.
Tuesday, Nov. 16
Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night
Westside Intermediate School
The first Wicomico County Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night of the 2010-11 school year will be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 16 at Westside Intermediate School to honor outstanding students, teachers, administrators, schools, programs and community partners. 410-677-4561.
Wednesday, Nov. 17
Superintendent’s Open Door Session
Board of Education Office
A Superintendent’s Open Door Session will take place Wednesday, Nov. 17, from 4-6 p.m., in the Administrative Conference Room at the Board of Education Office. The Open Door Sessions are opportunities to meet one-on-one with Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen to discuss any issue, idea or concern. No appointments are made: Anyone interested in meeting with the superintendent should come to the Board office that day and sign in. Other Superintendent Open Door Sessions for this year are scheduled for: Dec. 15, Jan. 19, Feb. 23, March 23, April 27 and May 25. 410-677-4495.
Saturday, Nov. 20
Annual Longaberger Basket and Vera Bradley Bag Ultimate Bingo
James M. Bennett High School
James M. Bennett High School will hold its Annual Longaberger Basket and Vera Bradley Bag Ultimate Bingo Nov. 20 to benefit the JMB student athletic teams. The event will be in the JMB Cafeteria. Doors and kitchen will open at 5 p.m. and games will begin at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $20; must be 18 or older to play. In addition to 20 games of regular Bingo (you win, you pick your prize; each prize contains gift certificates from local businesses and there will be all-new Vera Bradley bags), there will be a Chinese and Silent Auction, 50/50 raffle, door prizes, concessions for sale, and the JMB Treasure Chest. JMB is also remembering others during the holiday season and asks attendees to bring canned or nonperishable items; for each item brought, the person will receive a special raffle ticket towards a chance at winning a special prize. All items donated will be given to the Maryland Food Bank. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact Terry Blagus at 443-614-0875 or 410-677-5125 or tblagus@wcboe.org, or Kathy Elliott at 410-430-9172 or kelliott@wcboe.org.
Saturday, Nov. 27
JMB Open House
James M. Bennett High School
An open house at the new James M. Bennett High School will be held from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. Refreshments will be provided in the cafeteria, students will provide guided tours, complimentary programs will be handed out with photos and information on the new building, and JMB yearbooks from previous years will be available for sale. The school will have key chains for sale for $10 that incorporate pieces of the gym floor from old JMB, for those looking for a souvenir from the school. 410-677-5141.
Friday, Dec. 10
Heroes Night
Fruitland Schools
The Fruitland Schools PTA will host a Heroes Night for students and families on Friday, Dec. 10, to honor and remember the heroes of 9/11 and to meet the heroes who serve in the community every day. Guests will include Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis, longtime State’s Attorney Davis Ruark, Fruitland Police Chief Mike Phillips, Ernest Leatherbury of the Maryland State Police, the Fruitland Volunteer Fire Department, and a man who reported to the Pentagon to help on the day after 9/11. Other guests for the program who have a connection to 9/11 or are in public service are being sought. If you would like to participate in the Fruitland School PTA Heroes Night on Dec. 10, please contact coordinator Sheila Nichols at 410-334-6450, 443-735-2058, or nichols1011@verizon.net.
American Education Week
All Wicomico County Public Schools
Schools will welcome hundreds of parents, grandparents and other guests during this year's celebration of American Education Week. This annual spotlight on public education has as its theme "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility." At the beginning of November, every student will receive a letter to bring home outlining new visitor procedures for American Education Week. The student’s family must fill out and return to the school office by Nov. 10 the Approved Visitor Form listing the people who will be allowed to visit the student at school. For the safety of all students and staff, no one who is not identified in advance as an approved visitor will be allowed to visit classrooms. For more information about American Education Week, please check with your student's school.
Monday, Nov. 15
Family CSI Night
Salisbury Middle School
On Nov. 15, Salisbury Middle will have a PTA Visitation and Family CSI Night. PTA classroom visitation will occur from 4:30-5:30 p.m., with dinner being served by our PTA from 5:30-6 p.m. Our CSI activities will run from 6-7:30 p.m. These activities will consist of two crimes scenes that students and their families can take part in solving. We will have the local police department, archaeologists and representatives of other CSI-related careers discussing what they do in the field. Last year’s second CSI night brought out some 300 students, parents and guardians to investigate a crime scene. Students solve the CSI riddle using math, science, reading, writing, problem-solving, teamwork and lab analysis skills. 410-677-5149.
Tuesday, Nov. 16, 1:42 p.m.
“Let’s Move” Workout Event
Salisbury Middle School
At 1:42 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 16, students at Salisbury Middle School will join students around the country in “Let’s Move,” an event from First Lady Michelle Obama’s campaign to keep kids active. Students at SMS will do a choreographed flash workout routine that will be televised. 410-677-5149.
Tuesday, Nov. 16
Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night
Westside Intermediate School
The first Wicomico County Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night of the 2010-11 school year will be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 16 at Westside Intermediate School to honor outstanding students, teachers, administrators, schools, programs and community partners. 410-677-4561.
Wednesday, Nov. 17
Superintendent’s Open Door Session
Board of Education Office
A Superintendent’s Open Door Session will take place Wednesday, Nov. 17, from 4-6 p.m., in the Administrative Conference Room at the Board of Education Office. The Open Door Sessions are opportunities to meet one-on-one with Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen to discuss any issue, idea or concern. No appointments are made: Anyone interested in meeting with the superintendent should come to the Board office that day and sign in. Other Superintendent Open Door Sessions for this year are scheduled for: Dec. 15, Jan. 19, Feb. 23, March 23, April 27 and May 25. 410-677-4495.
Saturday, Nov. 20
Annual Longaberger Basket and Vera Bradley Bag Ultimate Bingo
James M. Bennett High School
James M. Bennett High School will hold its Annual Longaberger Basket and Vera Bradley Bag Ultimate Bingo Nov. 20 to benefit the JMB student athletic teams. The event will be in the JMB Cafeteria. Doors and kitchen will open at 5 p.m. and games will begin at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $20; must be 18 or older to play. In addition to 20 games of regular Bingo (you win, you pick your prize; each prize contains gift certificates from local businesses and there will be all-new Vera Bradley bags), there will be a Chinese and Silent Auction, 50/50 raffle, door prizes, concessions for sale, and the JMB Treasure Chest. JMB is also remembering others during the holiday season and asks attendees to bring canned or nonperishable items; for each item brought, the person will receive a special raffle ticket towards a chance at winning a special prize. All items donated will be given to the Maryland Food Bank. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact Terry Blagus at 443-614-0875 or 410-677-5125 or tblagus@wcboe.org, or Kathy Elliott at 410-430-9172 or kelliott@wcboe.org.
Saturday, Nov. 27
JMB Open House
James M. Bennett High School
An open house at the new James M. Bennett High School will be held from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. Refreshments will be provided in the cafeteria, students will provide guided tours, complimentary programs will be handed out with photos and information on the new building, and JMB yearbooks from previous years will be available for sale. The school will have key chains for sale for $10 that incorporate pieces of the gym floor from old JMB, for those looking for a souvenir from the school. 410-677-5141.
Friday, Dec. 10
Heroes Night
Fruitland Schools
The Fruitland Schools PTA will host a Heroes Night for students and families on Friday, Dec. 10, to honor and remember the heroes of 9/11 and to meet the heroes who serve in the community every day. Guests will include Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis, longtime State’s Attorney Davis Ruark, Fruitland Police Chief Mike Phillips, Ernest Leatherbury of the Maryland State Police, the Fruitland Volunteer Fire Department, and a man who reported to the Pentagon to help on the day after 9/11. Other guests for the program who have a connection to 9/11 or are in public service are being sought. If you would like to participate in the Fruitland School PTA Heroes Night on Dec. 10, please contact coordinator Sheila Nichols at 410-334-6450, 443-735-2058, or nichols1011@verizon.net.