NEW HAVEN (CN) - The Vietnam Veterans of America says the Pentagon has "systematically and wrongfully discharged" more than 22,000 veterans since 2001 "on the basis of so-called 'personality disorder'" - rather than post-traumatic stress disorder - to deny them medical care and save the Pentagon $12.5 billion in medical and disability payments.
"The military classifies PD [personality disorder] as a condition pre-existing military service," the four plaintiff chapters of the Vietnam Veterans of America say in their federal complaint against the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security.
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DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Monkey Banana Sam Snatched From San Francisco Zoo
A monkey-hunt is underway in the San Francisco area after someone stole a tiny squirrel monkey from the city’s zoo.
The black and orange monkey, named Banana Sam, was reported missing from his enclosure by zoo employees Friday morning. Zoo officials quickly found signs of a break-in: two holes cut in the wire mesh cage and the chain on the perimeter fence cut.
English As Official US Language: Perry Says, 'I Can Agree With That'
MASON CITY, IOWA -- Gov. Rick Perryon Friday appeared to endorse making English the official language of the United States, agreeing with a questioner who put forward a strongly worded defense of the idea.
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600-Pound Internet Star Shuts Down Website
The Top 10 Everything of 2011
In 54 wide-ranging lists, TIME surveys the highs and lows, the good and the bad, of the past 12 months
On Sept. 17, a couple hundred protesters demonstrating against the excesses of corporate execs and the pervasive influence of high finance in U.S. politics set up camp in Lower Manhattan's Zuccotti Park and refused to leave.
In 54 wide-ranging lists, TIME surveys the highs and lows, the good and the bad, of the past 12 months
On Sept. 17, a couple hundred protesters demonstrating against the excesses of corporate execs and the pervasive influence of high finance in U.S. politics set up camp in Lower Manhattan's Zuccotti Park and refused to leave.
Salisbury Area Chamber Officers And Board Members For 2012 And Beyond
The Nominating Committee is proud to announce the 2012-2013 slate of officers and 2012-2015 slate for the Board of Directors. The Nominating Committee recommends the following:
President Sandy Fitzgerald-Angello Pohanka Automotive Group
President Elect Bradley Gillis Sperry Van Ness - Miller Comm. Real Estate
Vice President Dr. Memo Diriker Salisbury University BEACON
Vice President Tony Nichols BBSI
Vice President John Cannon Cannon Management & Rentals LLC
Secretary/Treasurer Stephen Franklin Accurate Optical Co.
Asst. Sec/Treasurer Jaime Toner Pool Tech
Legal Counsel D. Nicole Green D. Nicole Green, P.A.
Immediate Past President Ernie Colburn Comcast Spotlight (Retired)
Candidates to join the Board of Directors for a three year term (April 1, 2012 to March 31, 2015) are:
1. Melodie Carter Hebron Savings Bank
2. Dr. Carolyn Elmore Wicomico County Board of Education
3. Roxanna LaGuerre Family Tree Senior Care
4. Jayme Weeg Junior Achievement
5. Dr. Bob Wood Salisbury University, Dean of the Perdue Business School
6. Pamela Webster Perdue, Director of Corporate Human Resources
7. Michael Weisner Weisner Real Estate
President Sandy Fitzgerald-Angello Pohanka Automotive Group
President Elect Bradley Gillis Sperry Van Ness - Miller Comm. Real Estate
Vice President Dr. Memo Diriker Salisbury University BEACON
Vice President Tony Nichols BBSI
Vice President John Cannon Cannon Management & Rentals LLC
Secretary/Treasurer Stephen Franklin Accurate Optical Co.
Asst. Sec/Treasurer Jaime Toner Pool Tech
Legal Counsel D. Nicole Green D. Nicole Green, P.A.
Immediate Past President Ernie Colburn Comcast Spotlight (Retired)
Candidates to join the Board of Directors for a three year term (April 1, 2012 to March 31, 2015) are:
1. Melodie Carter Hebron Savings Bank
2. Dr. Carolyn Elmore Wicomico County Board of Education
3. Roxanna LaGuerre Family Tree Senior Care
4. Jayme Weeg Junior Achievement
5. Dr. Bob Wood Salisbury University, Dean of the Perdue Business School
6. Pamela Webster Perdue, Director of Corporate Human Resources
7. Michael Weisner Weisner Real Estate
A Letter To The Editor 12-31-11
My mother was in Food lion yesterday Thursday Dec 29 on Nanticoke Road where she does her grocery shopping.
She was checking out and using gift cards she had received one gift card would not work for the cashier so they got the manager over there and she had to go to the office to check on it . When she came back she told my mother that her groceries were paid for. Mom said you got the card to work. Manager said no the man behind you paid for your $69.00 worth of groceries. The man was gone. My mom did not get to thank him...My mom and I thank this man for doing this kind deed. Sir, you know who you are and I have you have a prosperous new year. My Dad always said if you give it will come back to you in Tri fold. He didn't say you had to give a lot just give. I have helped many people this year and hope to be able to continue this year. I purchase for those that I think need it.
She was checking out and using gift cards she had received one gift card would not work for the cashier so they got the manager over there and she had to go to the office to check on it . When she came back she told my mother that her groceries were paid for. Mom said you got the card to work. Manager said no the man behind you paid for your $69.00 worth of groceries. The man was gone. My mom did not get to thank him...My mom and I thank this man for doing this kind deed. Sir, you know who you are and I have you have a prosperous new year. My Dad always said if you give it will come back to you in Tri fold. He didn't say you had to give a lot just give. I have helped many people this year and hope to be able to continue this year. I purchase for those that I think need it.
HISTORICAL COMMENTS BY GEORGE CHEVALLIER 12-31-11
New Years EveOver the years New Years Eve has taken on a different perspective. It was formerly a night of unbridled revelry. Consuming too much alcohol seemed to be the thing to do and I was not one to disappoint. Looking back, we all did some mighty foolish things. The years have brought about a more sensible approach to the event. Now, I don’t even make it to watch the ball fall.
It seemed like making noise was a good way to see in the New Year. I am glad that the ways I made noise are now unlawful. When I was 15 or 16, I used to fire off my shotgun even though I lived in town. Nobody said anything about it. They were too busy making their own form of noise. Since Salisbury was a relatively small town, everybody just seemed to look the other way on New Years Eve. If you did that now in my old neighborhood, there would be a half-dozen police cars there in about two minutes. I guess we did it because nobody told us not to.
I remember one New Years Eve was the first year they initiated the plan to give anyone who wanted, or needed, a ride home. I had walked to a party close to where I lived and took a fifth bottle of vodka. There was only about an inch of vodka in the bottle but I filled it to three quarters full by adding water to it. I had the time of my life that night just watching everyone watch me drink from my bottle and acting progressively more stupid. People were very tolerant of a drunk back then and I got away with far more than I would have if people only knew the truth. At the end of the evening, they wouldn’t even let me walk home, fearing I would be found the next morning laying by the side of the road. When I later found out that they had only given rides to six people, I was thoroughly embarrassed. Oh, well, like I said we did some mighty foolish things.
There are many venues today that provide for New Years merriment. I guess when people of today talk about kids not being able to entertain themselves, they are not taking into consideration that what we found entertaining back then would not be tolerated by society now. Just as well.
PUBLIC NOTICE
The January 3, 2012 City Council Work Session agenda has been revised to include discussion on the possible Comcast audit and other Comcast issues. This discussion is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. during the Work Session.
Daily Times Refuses To Recognize Joe Albero & Mr. Hazzard
"Thank you for the article in today’s Daily Times. I am sorry that you chose not to include two of the donator’s names as every one that participated did so with good intentions. Credit needs to be given to Joe Albero for a donation of a TV and to Mr. Hazzard for the heating being installed today".
"It was discussed that you would not use Haley’s last name – because of her age, for safety purposes and please note the spelling of Haley’s name".
Editors Notes: The story can be found HERE.
When the Daily Times goes out and rings the bell for the Salvation Army, we thank them and recognize them. Considering we, (Salisbury News) have been involved in this Home Makeover from the beginning, we reserved from making any mention of it. Today, (because they chose to exclude us) we are exposing their information through a letter sent to them yesterday morning, (above) from someone close to this event. You have to wonder what axe Mr. Hazzard has had to grind with the Daily Times as well?
In the mean time, some absolutely wonderful people came together and made a little girls life very extra special recently. You might as well click on the link above and read the rest of their story.
It should also be noted, the Daily Times was asked to hold the story, (along with the rest of the Press) until next week. They got and did everything wrong. But they're held to a higher standard, right? I mean, you can trust them, right? Just how many big mistakes can one paper make in two weeks. A LOT!
"It was discussed that you would not use Haley’s last name – because of her age, for safety purposes and please note the spelling of Haley’s name".
Editors Notes: The story can be found HERE.
When the Daily Times goes out and rings the bell for the Salvation Army, we thank them and recognize them. Considering we, (Salisbury News) have been involved in this Home Makeover from the beginning, we reserved from making any mention of it. Today, (because they chose to exclude us) we are exposing their information through a letter sent to them yesterday morning, (above) from someone close to this event. You have to wonder what axe Mr. Hazzard has had to grind with the Daily Times as well?
In the mean time, some absolutely wonderful people came together and made a little girls life very extra special recently. You might as well click on the link above and read the rest of their story.
It should also be noted, the Daily Times was asked to hold the story, (along with the rest of the Press) until next week. They got and did everything wrong. But they're held to a higher standard, right? I mean, you can trust them, right? Just how many big mistakes can one paper make in two weeks. A LOT!
Troopers Probe Millsboro Home Invasion
Location: Residence in the 26000 block of Mt. Joy Road, Millsboro, DE
Date of Occurrence: Friday, December 30, 2011 at 3:30 a.m.
Suspects:
Two black males. One is described as being tall the second short. One was armed with a shotgun.
Victim:
51 year old male victim
Resume:
Millsboro, DE- Delaware State Police detectives are currently investigating an attempted home invasion style robbery that occurred early this morning in Millsboro.
The incident happened at approximately 3:30 a.m. this morning as two black male suspects forced their way through the front door of a home located in the 26000 block of Mt. Joy Road in Millsboro. Once inside, the suspects, one armed with a shotgun, confronted the 51 year old male victim who had been sleeping in the living room. The suspects demanded money from the victim and then began fighting with him. They then left the home without obtaining any property and were last seen fleeing in a dark colored sedan. The victim received minor injuries but refused medical attention.
The Delaware State Police are asking anyone who may have any information in reference to this incident to contact Troop 4 at 302-856-5850. Citizens may also provide a tip by texting keyword “DSP” plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES). Tipsters may also provide information through lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333. Callers can also submit information via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com.
Date of Occurrence: Friday, December 30, 2011 at 3:30 a.m.
Suspects:
Two black males. One is described as being tall the second short. One was armed with a shotgun.
Victim:
51 year old male victim
Resume:
Millsboro, DE- Delaware State Police detectives are currently investigating an attempted home invasion style robbery that occurred early this morning in Millsboro.
The incident happened at approximately 3:30 a.m. this morning as two black male suspects forced their way through the front door of a home located in the 26000 block of Mt. Joy Road in Millsboro. Once inside, the suspects, one armed with a shotgun, confronted the 51 year old male victim who had been sleeping in the living room. The suspects demanded money from the victim and then began fighting with him. They then left the home without obtaining any property and were last seen fleeing in a dark colored sedan. The victim received minor injuries but refused medical attention.
The Delaware State Police are asking anyone who may have any information in reference to this incident to contact Troop 4 at 302-856-5850. Citizens may also provide a tip by texting keyword “DSP” plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES). Tipsters may also provide information through lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333. Callers can also submit information via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com.
Revised City Council Agenda
REVISED 12-30-111
SALISBURY CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION AGENDA
JANUARY 3, 2012
CONFERENCE ROOM 306
GOVERNMENT OFFICE BUILDING
SALISBURY CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION AGENDA
JANUARY 3, 2012
CONFERENCE ROOM 306
GOVERNMENT OFFICE BUILDING
4:30 p.m. Continuing discussion on changes of Title 15 regarding Rental Inspections – Paul Wilber
5:00 p.m. Follow-up discussion on Towing Ordinances – Paul Wilber
5:30 p.m. Rubbish – Follow up discussion on amending Section 15.24 Housing Standards, Article
XXVI Accumulation of Rubbish Prohibited, of the Code – John Pick/Tom Stevenson
6:00 p.m. Break
6:15 p.m. Park and Flea Lease Agreement – John Pick
6:30 p.m. Feldman’s follow-up discussion with Administration – John Pick
6:45 p.m. Possible changes to Health Insurance Program – John Pick
7:15 p.m. Follow up on possible Comcast audit and other Comcast issues
7:45 p.m. General discussion/Upcoming Agenda items
8:15 p.m. Adjournment
5:00 p.m. Follow-up discussion on Towing Ordinances – Paul Wilber
5:30 p.m. Rubbish – Follow up discussion on amending Section 15.24 Housing Standards, Article
XXVI Accumulation of Rubbish Prohibited, of the Code – John Pick/Tom Stevenson
6:00 p.m. Break
6:15 p.m. Park and Flea Lease Agreement – John Pick
6:30 p.m. Feldman’s follow-up discussion with Administration – John Pick
6:45 p.m. Possible changes to Health Insurance Program – John Pick
7:15 p.m. Follow up on possible Comcast audit and other Comcast issues
7:45 p.m. General discussion/Upcoming Agenda items
8:15 p.m. Adjournment
Moms: Reinvention For The New Year
We've all heard of a New Year's resolution. You know, lose 10 pounds, quit smoking, etc. While that is all well and good, most of these "resolutions" don't make it until February! What are we really looking for? To feel good about ourselves? To be happy?
What about a reinvention? Actually taking a holistic approach to your life. What is working? What isn't? What are you actually looking for? Don't be overwhelmed by this. It isn't rocket science, just a different approach to finding what are really looking for in your life.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Somerset County Sheriff's Office Press Release 12-30-11
Richard Alan McGlothlin Jr. of Rising Sun, arrested 12-22-11 on a warrant regarding violation of probation. McGlothin was held without bond.
Randall Hanson Dykes of Salisbury, arrested 12-23-11 on a warrant regarding violation of probation. Dykes was held on a $150,000 bond.
Jeffrey Edward Webster of Deal Island, arrested 12-23-11 on traffic charges regarding driving without vehicle insurance, and displaying expired registration plates. Webster was released on citations pending District Court actions. The arrest was a result of a traffic stop conducted by Deputies on Ocean Highway in Princess Anne.
Michael Lamar Handy of Princess Anne, arrested 12-26-11 on a warrant regarding failing to appear in court. Handy was held on a $31,848.00 bond.
James Joseph Johnson Sr. of Princess Anne, arrested 12-26-11 on a warrant regarding violation of probation. Johnson was later held on a $25,000 bond.
Tyrie Lamar Henderson of Princess Anne, arrested 12-26-11 on warrants regarding failing to appear in court. Henderson was held on a $1,000 bond.
Leon Lorenzo White of Princess Anne, arrested 12-27-11 on warrants regarding failing to appear in court. White was held on a $1,000 bond.
Cynthia Dora Lester of Princess Anne, arrested 12-28-11 on traffic charges regarding driving without vehicle insurance, and a equipment violation. Lester was released on citations pending District Court actions. The arrest was a result of a traffic stop conducted by Deputies on Somerset Ave, Princess Anne.
Gregory Terrell Johnson Jr. of Princess Anne, arrested 12-29-11 on a warrant regarding failing to appear in court. Johnson was held on a $500.00 bond.
Dennis Lamont Daniels of Painter Virginia, arrested 12-29-11 on warrants regarding second degree assault, and reckless endangerment. Daniels was held on a $5,000 unsecured bond.
Arlen Deshawn Manley of Flanders New Jersey, arrested 12-20-11 on traffic charges regarding driving without a license, and speeding. Manley was released on citations pending District Court actions. The arrest was the result of a traffic stop conducted by Deputies on Ocean Highway, Westover.
Randall Hanson Dykes of Salisbury, arrested 12-23-11 on a warrant regarding violation of probation. Dykes was held on a $150,000 bond.
Jeffrey Edward Webster of Deal Island, arrested 12-23-11 on traffic charges regarding driving without vehicle insurance, and displaying expired registration plates. Webster was released on citations pending District Court actions. The arrest was a result of a traffic stop conducted by Deputies on Ocean Highway in Princess Anne.
Michael Lamar Handy of Princess Anne, arrested 12-26-11 on a warrant regarding failing to appear in court. Handy was held on a $31,848.00 bond.
James Joseph Johnson Sr. of Princess Anne, arrested 12-26-11 on a warrant regarding violation of probation. Johnson was later held on a $25,000 bond.
Tyrie Lamar Henderson of Princess Anne, arrested 12-26-11 on warrants regarding failing to appear in court. Henderson was held on a $1,000 bond.
Leon Lorenzo White of Princess Anne, arrested 12-27-11 on warrants regarding failing to appear in court. White was held on a $1,000 bond.
Cynthia Dora Lester of Princess Anne, arrested 12-28-11 on traffic charges regarding driving without vehicle insurance, and a equipment violation. Lester was released on citations pending District Court actions. The arrest was a result of a traffic stop conducted by Deputies on Somerset Ave, Princess Anne.
Gregory Terrell Johnson Jr. of Princess Anne, arrested 12-29-11 on a warrant regarding failing to appear in court. Johnson was held on a $500.00 bond.
Dennis Lamont Daniels of Painter Virginia, arrested 12-29-11 on warrants regarding second degree assault, and reckless endangerment. Daniels was held on a $5,000 unsecured bond.
Arlen Deshawn Manley of Flanders New Jersey, arrested 12-20-11 on traffic charges regarding driving without a license, and speeding. Manley was released on citations pending District Court actions. The arrest was the result of a traffic stop conducted by Deputies on Ocean Highway, Westover.
Perry Draws Blank on Landmark Texas Anti-Sodomy Supreme Court Case
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – Texas Gov. Rick Perry admitted Thursday that he didn’t know about the Supreme Court case Lawrence v. Texas, a case decided while he was governor which struck down the state’s anti-sodomy law and similar laws in 13 others.
A voter at a meet and greet asked him to defend his criticism of limited government in the case.
How The Interventionists Stole The American Right
Thanks to Ron Paul, the Conservative movement is having an identity crisis. The old guard of the Conservative movement, which also happens to be the Republican Party establishment, still clings to the old creation myth of the Conservative movement. Namely, that there was no opposition to the New Deal-Liberal consensus until William F. Buckley and National Review came along in 1955, saving America from the American left, social democracy, moral turpitude and international Communism.
The modern gatekeepers of the movement, and the Republican Party officials, who fancy themselves as the keepers of the last word on the acceptable range of debate within the movement, cannot understand why the Ron Paul movement is more concerned with actually shrinking the size of government than with waging endless wars for endless peace. They cannot fathom that people claiming to be part of the American Right might actually be interested in rolling back government power to tax, wiretap, spy, arrest, imprison and feel up American citizens. This runs contrary to everything they have ever imbibed about what it means to be Conservative in America.
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The modern gatekeepers of the movement, and the Republican Party officials, who fancy themselves as the keepers of the last word on the acceptable range of debate within the movement, cannot understand why the Ron Paul movement is more concerned with actually shrinking the size of government than with waging endless wars for endless peace. They cannot fathom that people claiming to be part of the American Right might actually be interested in rolling back government power to tax, wiretap, spy, arrest, imprison and feel up American citizens. This runs contrary to everything they have ever imbibed about what it means to be Conservative in America.
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GM Recalls 4,873 Sonic Cars In US, Canada
First Sears And Kmart Closings Of 2012 Concentrated In Midwest And South
Sears Holdings, owner of the perpetually troubled retailer power couple Sears and Kmart, has released the locations of 80 out of the 100 to 120 "under-performing" stores that will close in the coming months. Most of the stores on this first list are in the southern and midwestern U.S.
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Consumer Confidence Rose In December
(NEW YORK) — Americans are gaining faith that the economy is on the upswing.
An improving job outlook helped the Consumer Confidence Index soar to the highest level since April and near a post-recession peak, according to a monthly survey by The Conference Board.
The second straight monthly surge coincided with a decent holiday shopping season for retailers, though stores had to heavily discount to attract shoppers.
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'Synthetic' Marijuana Use Becoming Problem For U.S. Military
SAN DIEGO – U.S. troops are increasingly using an easy-to-get herbal mix called "Spice," which mimics a marijuana high and can bring on hallucinations that last for days.
The abuse of the drug has so alarmed military officials that they've launched an aggressive testing program that this year has led to the investigation of more than 1,100 suspected users, according to military figures.
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Is The Free Market Hopeless?
Why free-market economics is a fraud ... If there's one thing everyone in America knows, it's that free-market economics is true and free markets are best. After all, we're not communists, are we? They starved and lost the Cold War because they believed otherwise. And their watered-down European cousins the socialists? More of the same, only less so. Even liberals get this nowadays. All hail the free market! Trouble is, things "everyone" knows are often wrong. And this is no exception. It's time to start getting honest about a very simple fact: Nobody, but nobody, really believes in free markets. That's right. Not the Republican Party, not the libertarians, not the "Wall Street Journal," nobody. Here's why: a truly free market is a perfectly competitive market. Which means that whatever you have to sell in that market, so does your competition. Which means price war. Which means your price gets driven down. Which means little or no profit for you. Oops! – World Net Daily
Dominant Social Theme: All this talk about the free-market makes us sick.
Free-Market Analysis: We have been watching what we call the Internet Reformation unfold for about a decade now – and as people begin to understand the Way the World REALLY Works, attacks on the concept of a free market have escalated.
As people in the West used the Internet to discover the one-world goals of the Anglosphere elites, all the regular tricks and tropes of those who seek a New World Order were triggered in the US, where the controversy is especially contentious.
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Dominant Social Theme: All this talk about the free-market makes us sick.
Free-Market Analysis: We have been watching what we call the Internet Reformation unfold for about a decade now – and as people begin to understand the Way the World REALLY Works, attacks on the concept of a free market have escalated.
As people in the West used the Internet to discover the one-world goals of the Anglosphere elites, all the regular tricks and tropes of those who seek a New World Order were triggered in the US, where the controversy is especially contentious.
More
Alcohol And Your Health
When it comes to your health, is it better to drink or not to drink?
It's becoming an even more complicated question, especially in the wake of several recent studies linking even a little drinking of alcohol to a higher risk of cancers.
In one of them, researchers found that women who had as little as one drink a day boosted their risk of cancer of the breast, liver, rectum, throat, mouth, and esophagus. Meanwhile, numerous studies dating back decades show that alcohol and heart health have a positive relationship.
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It's becoming an even more complicated question, especially in the wake of several recent studies linking even a little drinking of alcohol to a higher risk of cancers.
In one of them, researchers found that women who had as little as one drink a day boosted their risk of cancer of the breast, liver, rectum, throat, mouth, and esophagus. Meanwhile, numerous studies dating back decades show that alcohol and heart health have a positive relationship.
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Senator Wants To Cut Back Domain Names
One senator is calling on international regulators to scale back plans to expand the number of domain names on the Internet. Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-W.Va.) is chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee. NextGov reports, he's rallying other telecomm leaders to ask the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers to change its plans. ICANN wants to roll out unlimited new generic domain names that could include names of companies, like dot-facebook. Rockefeller worries thousands of new domain names could cost business millions by forcing them to defend their brands and could increase Internet fraud
"Law Enforcement Expert" Says Pittsburgher Jordan Miles Must Have Known Cops Were Cops Before They Beat Him Lucy Steigerwald
In response to a federal civil rights lawsuit filed by Jordan Miles over a beating he suffered from Pittsburgh Police in January 2010, a "law enforcement expert" has declared that the cops' version of events is true.
The aforementioned expert was hired by the city to fight the lawsuit from Miles, so it's not exactly surprising that he came to some familiar conclusions about why the cops just had to do what they did.
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The aforementioned expert was hired by the city to fight the lawsuit from Miles, so it's not exactly surprising that he came to some familiar conclusions about why the cops just had to do what they did.
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U.S. Troops Getting High
A growing number of U.S. troops are getting high on the herbal mix known as Spice. Smoking the mixture mimics the effects of marijuana. The armed services have investigated more than 1,000 suspected users this year. Mark Ridley, deputy director of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, says the Navy has a zero tolerance policy toward use of spice. Seven hundred sailors were suspected of using it this year. The Air Force has punished nearly 500 users. The Army doesn't track total figures but says it treated 119 soldiers medically for use of Spice. Spice is made from dried leaves of exotic Asian plants.
Visitors To New York's 9/11 Memorial Top 1 Million
New York (CNN) -- In the 16 weeks since it opened to the public, the September 11 Memorial in New York has seen more than 1 million visitors, officials announced Thursday.
The memorial plaza was opened to family members of victims on the 10th anniversary of the attacks, and to the general pubic the following day. A museum on site is still under construction, and it is expected to open September 11, 2012.
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The memorial plaza was opened to family members of victims on the 10th anniversary of the attacks, and to the general pubic the following day. A museum on site is still under construction, and it is expected to open September 11, 2012.
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CIA Claims Petraeus Wasn't Going To Quit
The CIA has issued a statement, saying director and former four-star Gen. David Petraeus did not consider resigning the Army over President Obama's withdrawal plans for Afghanistan. Earlier, we reported that a forthcoming biography of Petraeus said, he'd thought about it but decided against what he called grandstanding. It turns out, Petraeus was urged to quit by Max Boot, a conservative writer who frequently covers military affairs. The Associated Press describes the biography as part hagiography and part defense of Petraeus' counterinsurgency strategy. The book is co-authored by Paula Broadwell and Vernon Loeb of the Washington Post
Cities Turn Off Their Lights As Budgets Get Slashed And Revenues Decline
HIGHLAND PARK, Mich. — In a deal to save money, two-thirds of the streetlights were yanked from the ground and hauled away this year, and the resulting darkness is a look that is familiar in the wide open cornfields of Iowa but not here, in a struggling community surrounded on nearly all sides by Detroit.
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Smigiel Dominates Early Legislation — Again
The General Assembly already has a pile of 47 bills that have been prefiled so members can get right to work when they convene next month. On the House of Delegates side, nobody has prefiled more than Del. Michael Smigiel.
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David Letterman's Blackmailer Gets New TV Job
O’Malley Says Gas And Flush Tax Hikes May Be Part Of 2013 Budget
Gov. Martin O’Malley told reporters Thursday that “yes, perhaps” tax hikes would be part of next year’s proposed budget as part of a “balanced approach,” but he declined to be more specific.
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North Korea Says No Change, No Talks With Seoul
(CNN) -- Prospects for a shift in relations on the Korean peninsula were dashed Friday when North Korea said a change in leadership would not mean a change in policy.
"We solemnly declare with confidence that the South Korean puppets and foolish politicians around the world should not expect any change" from North Korea, the country's National Defense Commission said in a statement reported by Pyongyang's state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
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Need Help Avoiding Hangover? Less Booze, More H2O
CHICAGO (AP) - Attorney Colleen Gorman has a holiday ritual that doesn't involve buying presents or counting down to midnight: She goes online to look for new hangover remedies she hasn't tried.
She already has scratched off those big "prevention" pills, vitamins and chugging sports drinks, along with more quirky folk remedies including peanut butter sandwiches.
"My fiance says I should probably just drink less," said Gorman, 28, of Chicago.
Experts say that's good advice for everyone.
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She already has scratched off those big "prevention" pills, vitamins and chugging sports drinks, along with more quirky folk remedies including peanut butter sandwiches.
"My fiance says I should probably just drink less," said Gorman, 28, of Chicago.
Experts say that's good advice for everyone.
More
Animal Cruelty Nets 18 Months
SNOW HILL -- Two days after getting sentenced to a combined 20 years for convictions on five counts of possession of child pornography, a Berlin man was sentenced last Thursday to an additional 18 months for animal cruelty stemming from an incident last August.
On Aug. 24, Berlin Police received a tip that Greenberg was in possession of animals in compromised health conditions in direct violation of his probation for an animal cruelty conviction in Salisbury in August 2010.
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On Aug. 24, Berlin Police received a tip that Greenberg was in possession of animals in compromised health conditions in direct violation of his probation for an animal cruelty conviction in Salisbury in August 2010.
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Dover International Speedway To Widen Seats
DOVER, Del. (AP) - Dover International Speedway in Delaware is hoping to make race fans' experience a little more comfortable by widening seats in the track's outdoor grandstands.
The speedway announced Thursday that the process of increasing seats from 18 inches to 22 inches will start next year and will be complete by 2014.
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The speedway announced Thursday that the process of increasing seats from 18 inches to 22 inches will start next year and will be complete by 2014.
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Top 10 Parenting Fails Of 2011
(Parenting.com) -- Parenting's a hard job, we admit. But take heart; no matter how much you're struggling, you're probably doing better than these sorry moms and dads making headlines this year. Read through our list, and then congratulate yourself for doing a pretty good job, all things considered.
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Holidays Would Land On Same Day Under Proposed Calendar
WASHINGTON -- How would you like to have New Year's Eve on a Saturday every single year?
It's just one possible benefit touted by a pair of Johns Hopkins researchers who say the calendar should change and the world should get rid of time zones.
Astrophysicist Richard Henry and economist Steve Hanke say their calendar would not only be convenient, it would save money.
That's because with balanced quarters of the year based on two 30-day months, followed by one 31-day month, complicated calculations of how much interest you owe or the bank owes you, could get a lot simpler.
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It's just one possible benefit touted by a pair of Johns Hopkins researchers who say the calendar should change and the world should get rid of time zones.
Astrophysicist Richard Henry and economist Steve Hanke say their calendar would not only be convenient, it would save money.
That's because with balanced quarters of the year based on two 30-day months, followed by one 31-day month, complicated calculations of how much interest you owe or the bank owes you, could get a lot simpler.
More
Kelly Clarkson Endorses Ron Paul, Gets Twitter Hate Over Racism, Homophobia
The first "American Idol" has announced who she wants to be the next American president. Her choice isn't helping her approval ratings.
"I love Ron Paul. I liked him a lot during the last republican nomination and no one gave him a chance," Kelly Clarkson wrote on Twitter and WhoSay on Wednesday. "If he wins the nomination for the Republican party in 2012 he's got my vote. Too bad he probably won't."
Like Paul, Clarkson hails from Texas. And like Paul, Clarkson is a fan of limited government. But given her status as a pop star, she caught a lot of criticism from fans who were enraged over Clarkson's endorsement amidst the ongoing controversy over racist and homophobic newsletters that were sent out under Paul's name in the 80s.
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Like Paul, Clarkson hails from Texas. And like Paul, Clarkson is a fan of limited government. But given her status as a pop star, she caught a lot of criticism from fans who were enraged over Clarkson's endorsement amidst the ongoing controversy over racist and homophobic newsletters that were sent out under Paul's name in the 80s.
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Live Video Chat While Driving? Might Be A Thing Of The Near Future
WASHINGTON -- There could be one more distraction to add to the list of gadgets that can distract drivers from the road.
Onstar is set to demonstrate in-car video chats and live video streaming in a Chevy Volt.
It says the prototype applications will be put in the demo car at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in the second week of January.
At last year's show, the company said any video features would be designed to only be active in the back seat, unless the car is in park.
More
Onstar is set to demonstrate in-car video chats and live video streaming in a Chevy Volt.
It says the prototype applications will be put in the demo car at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in the second week of January.
At last year's show, the company said any video features would be designed to only be active in the back seat, unless the car is in park.
More
'Amazing,' 'Baby Bump' Among Words Added To Michigan School's Banished list
(CNN) -- If you're thinking of setting up an amazing man cave or showing off a ginormous baby bump next year, think again.
A northern Michigan school on Friday released its 37th annual list of words and phrases that it believes should be "banished" from the English language, and it suggests that some classic -- and perhaps hackneyed -- should get the ax.
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A northern Michigan school on Friday released its 37th annual list of words and phrases that it believes should be "banished" from the English language, and it suggests that some classic -- and perhaps hackneyed -- should get the ax.
More
Doggie Dining Has No Takers
The story: The Dining Out Growth Act of 2011 took effect July 1, allowing restaurants to allow dogs in outdoor areas.
The update: No restaurant has made inquiries about allowing the pets to eat with their owners.
This year, the Maryland General Assembly loosened the leash on doggie dining at restaurants.
The Dining Out Growth Act of 2011 took effect July 1, but, as of early December, there had been no takers in Washington County.
"No one locally even made any inquiries about it," Washington County Health Department spokesman Rod MacRae said in a voice-mail message on Dec. 9.
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The update: No restaurant has made inquiries about allowing the pets to eat with their owners.
This year, the Maryland General Assembly loosened the leash on doggie dining at restaurants.
The Dining Out Growth Act of 2011 took effect July 1, but, as of early December, there had been no takers in Washington County.
"No one locally even made any inquiries about it," Washington County Health Department spokesman Rod MacRae said in a voice-mail message on Dec. 9.
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Bavarian Villagers Build Church Out Of Snow And Ice
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Maryland Lawmakers May Consider Gas Tax Hike In 2012
BALTIMORE (WJZ)– The threat of a 15 percent gas tax hike could soon be a reality. It’s news drivers don’t want to hear but the governor says the money’s got to come from somewhere.
Meghan McCorkell has more on the increase.
The gas tax hasn’t gone up in Maryland in nearly two decades. Now, Governor Martin O’Malley says it’s time for a change today if Maryland wants a better tomorrow.
Tax hikes must be on the table in 2012. That’s the word from Governor Martin O’Malley.
“Somehow, we have to find a way to make the kind of modern investments that a modern economy requires to create jobs,” he said.
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Meghan McCorkell has more on the increase.
The gas tax hasn’t gone up in Maryland in nearly two decades. Now, Governor Martin O’Malley says it’s time for a change today if Maryland wants a better tomorrow.
Tax hikes must be on the table in 2012. That’s the word from Governor Martin O’Malley.
“Somehow, we have to find a way to make the kind of modern investments that a modern economy requires to create jobs,” he said.
More
Two Abortion Doctors Charged With Murder in MD
Two out-of-state doctors who traveled to Maryland to perform late-term abortions have been arrested and charged with multiple counts of murder under the state’s viable fetus law, authorities said.
Dr. Steven Brigham, of Voorhees, N.J., was taken into custody Wednesday night and is being held in the Camden County jail, according to police in Elkton, Md. Authorities also arrested Dr. Nicola Riley in Salt Lake City and she is in jail in Utah. Each is awaiting an extradition hearing.
The two doctors were indicted by a grand jury after a 16-month investigation, police said.
The investigation began in August 2010 after a botched procedure at Brigham’s Elkton clinic. An 18-year-old woman who was 21 weeks pregnant had her uterus ruptured and her bowel injured, and rather than call 911, Brigham and Riley drove her to a nearby hospital, where both were uncooperative and Brigham refused to give his name, authorities said.
A search of the clinic after the botched abortion revealed a freezer with 35 late-term fetuses inside, including one believed to have been aborted at 36 weeks, authorities said.
Brigham, 55, is charged with five counts of first-degree murder, five counts of second-degree murder and one count of conspiracy. Riley, 46, faces one count each of first- and second-degree murder and one conspiracy count.
The procedure authorities say was botched resulted in the murder case against Riley and three of the 11 murder charges against Brigham, prosecutors told the Cecil Whig in Elkton, Md. The other charges against Brigham relate to four other illegal abortions he performed there, prosecutors added.
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Dr. Steven Brigham, of Voorhees, N.J., was taken into custody Wednesday night and is being held in the Camden County jail, according to police in Elkton, Md. Authorities also arrested Dr. Nicola Riley in Salt Lake City and she is in jail in Utah. Each is awaiting an extradition hearing.
The two doctors were indicted by a grand jury after a 16-month investigation, police said.
The investigation began in August 2010 after a botched procedure at Brigham’s Elkton clinic. An 18-year-old woman who was 21 weeks pregnant had her uterus ruptured and her bowel injured, and rather than call 911, Brigham and Riley drove her to a nearby hospital, where both were uncooperative and Brigham refused to give his name, authorities said.
A search of the clinic after the botched abortion revealed a freezer with 35 late-term fetuses inside, including one believed to have been aborted at 36 weeks, authorities said.
Brigham, 55, is charged with five counts of first-degree murder, five counts of second-degree murder and one count of conspiracy. Riley, 46, faces one count each of first- and second-degree murder and one conspiracy count.
The procedure authorities say was botched resulted in the murder case against Riley and three of the 11 murder charges against Brigham, prosecutors told the Cecil Whig in Elkton, Md. The other charges against Brigham relate to four other illegal abortions he performed there, prosecutors added.
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Alaska Teen Who Was Injected With Heroin Dies
(AP)
ANCHORAGE, Alaska - An Alaska teenager who was injected with heroin by a 26-year-old man died Thursday almost a week after the incident, Anchorage police said.
Jena Dolstad of Anchorage had been listed in critical condition since she was taken to the hospital last Friday with a drug overdose. The 14-year-old died at the hospital shortly after noon Thursday, police spokeswoman Anita Shell said.
Maryland Bill Would Make Parents Report Missing Kids
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland General Assembly will consider a bill that would require parents or guardians to promptly notify police about dead or missing children.
The Cumberland Times-News reported Thursday that Delegate Kevin Kelly pre-filed the bill for the 2012 legislative session (http://bit.ly/szEFmk).
The Allegany County Democrat is calling it "Caylee's Law" in memory of Caylee Anthony, a 2-year-old Florida girl who died in 2008. Caylee's mother Casey Anthony didn't report her disappearance for a month. She was acquitted of murder in July.
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The Cumberland Times-News reported Thursday that Delegate Kevin Kelly pre-filed the bill for the 2012 legislative session (http://bit.ly/szEFmk).
The Allegany County Democrat is calling it "Caylee's Law" in memory of Caylee Anthony, a 2-year-old Florida girl who died in 2008. Caylee's mother Casey Anthony didn't report her disappearance for a month. She was acquitted of murder in July.
More
Warning: Don’t Mix Alcohol And Online Shopping
Drunk dialing, drunk texts, drunk Facebooking … there are many things one shouldn’t do while drunk. Add online shopping to the list.
Nowadays if you’re drinking, it’s advisable to hand over not only your keys, but your credit card as well, to a sober, responsible friend—ideally, one with good taste too. Why? The dangers of shopping while drunk.
Read More
The Prepper Movement - Part 1
What is a prepper? Wikipedia defines a prepper as a survivalist preparing for man-made or natural apocalyptic disasters. While it is undeniable that the potential of man-made chaos increases with each passing day, the necessity for people to be prepared for naturally occurring phenomena exist and have existed since the beginning of time itself. The news - more importantly the internet - is full of information of things taking place all over the world that are waking people up to the fact that the need to prepare for bad situations, both man made and natural disasters, has never been more important. The number of people waking up to this reality increases everyday and is nothing less than a movement.
In my mind, prepping must consist of immediate, short term provisions AND long term sustainability of your life and the lives of your family members and/or those in your prepper "group". Remember, you can not effectively prep for long term survival on your own. We'll go into that in greater detail later. But for purposes of this article we will break prepping down into two basic types. Short term and long term.
Short Term
Prepping for short term survival should be a concern for every American. Even the U.S. Government thinks so. http://www.ready.gov/are-you-ready-guide
If you can read this and not become fully aware that even the Government expects disasters with which it cannot effectively handle, you may be among those who will perish in the aftermath. At this point, our federal government promotes the actions of preppers - to a degree.
Short term means days and weeks - up to several months. Know this and prepare accordingly. Many experts agree that if the power grid should collapse, up to half of our countries population would die within the first 30 days unless power is restored. Remember the rules of 3. 3 minutes without air, 3 days without water, and 3 weeks without food. Water will be scarce without electricity to pump it out of the ground. Food will be scarce without electricity to keep it cold. It will also disrupt food distribution channels without fuel for trucks to bring food to the masses. Think it can't happen. On a smaller scale think about New Orleans. Even closer to home - think about the ice storm here in the late 90's that left some without electricity for 2 weeks. I can remember vividly the signs in front of the homes on Mt. Hermon Rd. saying "Conective Where Are You?!" Fortunately, these were isolated outages and people could still drive to get fuel and fresh food. A prolonged nationwide electrical grid failure can present life threatening circumstances for everyone in this country - unless you prepare.
So where do you begin to prepare for a short term natural or manmade disaster? Short term disasters presume that for the most part law enforcement and social fabric remain intact. While law enforcement may be tied up saving lives and things of that nature, it still functions as part of that social fabric.The five most important areas of survival are Shelter, Food and water, Security, Medical, and Communication. For short term prepping, the first three are the most important.
Shelter - should I stay of should I go? There should be specific triggers that determine whether you should remain in your home or head for high ground (bug out). Everyones trigger point is different based in personal issues, such as small children, health conditions, etc. You should determine what your triggers are and make them part of your plan. If you plan to leave be sure to have the resources available to facilitate your evacuation - including a destination. DO NOT wait until evacuation time to think of a place to go. If you plan to stay be sure to have the resources available to facilitate that as well. Since most disasters include disruption of power, a generator is essential with plenty of fuel on hand. It would be preferable to have a diesel generator since diesel fuel can be stored for extremely long periods of time. Have your house wired well in advance and be familiar with how to disconnect the main breaker and direct the power supply to you electric panel. Ration your power useage so that you can run the generator for just an hour or two a day. Modern freezers keep food cold for long periods of time without power. Turn the power on only often enough to keep your freezer cold. While it is running, use the power to run your well pump to fill large containers (tub, barrels, jugs) with water and take care of hygiene requirements. Heat will be extremely important in the winter. Most generators won't create enough power to supply heat pumps, electric baseboard heaters, etc. It would be in your best interest to install a wood stove (not pellet) or a gas log fireplace to heat your house. Again, having plenty of fuel on hand will be at the top of the list of every succesful prepper.
Food and water - how much is too much? For most preppers, a good rule of thumb is 3-6 months worth of non-perishable foods. Canned goods should be maintained in a location that permits you to monitor expiration dates and to consume food using the FIFO method - First In, First Out. Once the stockpile is full you should use it as you normally would, replacing it as it is consumed. The idea that you will run out into the woods and kill enough food to feed your family is not just impractical as well as impossible, it is the same idea that 30,000 other people in Wicomico County will have. Stockpiling 3-6 months worth of food will allow you to focus on other important pressing issues that you will face. It will also allow you to help your neighbors who will not be as prepared as you. Charity is something you should consider constantly as you prepare. Water we covered above using well pumps while your generator is running. If you live in a city or town on the shore, you can still hand drive a well in your yard for "irrigation purposes only" ;-) with a pitcher pump. Keep in mind that in cases of flooding, it may be necessary to treat water before drinking. Water purification tablets can be obtained from Gander Mountain, Wal-Mart, or on-line at Cheaperthandirt.com and Cabelas.com.
Security - and we're not talking alarms here. That's right folks - guns. There, I said it. In a situation where lack of food, water, and possibly shelter intersects with a desperate population that has failed to prepare in the same manner you have, the need for personal security will become obvious in less than 72 hours. Law enforcement will not be able to protect you and your family. No excuses. Nothing you can say can obsolve you of your responsibility to protect yourself and your family from anyone who would harm you to take what you need to survive. This is where the rubber meets the road. Security doesn't mean buying a gun and shooting anyone who comes to your door. Security means developing a plan to keep your home, your family, and your supplies safe and implementing the plan using any and all necessary tools - including guns - to get it done. Security may mean a dog as an early alert. It may mean manning an LP/OP 24/7 until things return to normal. In all situations it means that someone remain awake at all times to alert others of any impending danger. It may mean inviting family and/or friends into your home to assure that there are enough people present to carry out this critical task. Security means that one is armed constantly while outdoors. It means that outdoors means on your property only - no wandering the country side. It means that larger properties - such as farms - need to be actually patrolled randomely, never routinely. It means that if at all possible, anyone going outdoors should do so with a partner. Prepping means becoming thoroughly familiar your weapons and your plan BEFORE an emergency arises. It means becoming an effective marksman.
It should be noted that security should be implemented as soon as the decision is made to either evacuate or stay. Incidentally, if you decide to evacuate you still must provide for the food/water and security aspects of survival while enroute to your bug out location and after you arrive.
Prepping isn't something you do a day a month or a week a year. Prepping is a way of life. Everyday you monitor the things going on in the world. You conserve and learn to conserve even more. You learn to be self sufficient. You learn to be compassionate and charitable. You learn to live in a way forgotten in the last 40 years
With any luck, after an incident such as the one mentioned above, electric companies and other utilities will make the necessary repairs and slowely life will return to some degree of normalcy as the infrastructure and food supply lines become re-established. Then we can all look back and appreciate the results of our efforts to be able to provide for our families. If they aren't repaired - if the food supply lines aren't re-established - the breakdown of our society will increase exponentially. The government will implement martial law and the military will take over all law enforcement functions. The constitution will be suspended - temporarily at first - and curfews will be implemented. Anarchy will be the flavor of the day. Our short term scenario has intensified and long term survival will the focus of all prudent preppers. In part 2 we will discuss preparation for long term survival, the development of a group of preppers, and the establishment of a trading/bartering network..
In my mind, prepping must consist of immediate, short term provisions AND long term sustainability of your life and the lives of your family members and/or those in your prepper "group". Remember, you can not effectively prep for long term survival on your own. We'll go into that in greater detail later. But for purposes of this article we will break prepping down into two basic types. Short term and long term.
Short Term
Prepping for short term survival should be a concern for every American. Even the U.S. Government thinks so. http://www.ready.gov/are-you-ready-guide
If you can read this and not become fully aware that even the Government expects disasters with which it cannot effectively handle, you may be among those who will perish in the aftermath. At this point, our federal government promotes the actions of preppers - to a degree.
Short term means days and weeks - up to several months. Know this and prepare accordingly. Many experts agree that if the power grid should collapse, up to half of our countries population would die within the first 30 days unless power is restored. Remember the rules of 3. 3 minutes without air, 3 days without water, and 3 weeks without food. Water will be scarce without electricity to pump it out of the ground. Food will be scarce without electricity to keep it cold. It will also disrupt food distribution channels without fuel for trucks to bring food to the masses. Think it can't happen. On a smaller scale think about New Orleans. Even closer to home - think about the ice storm here in the late 90's that left some without electricity for 2 weeks. I can remember vividly the signs in front of the homes on Mt. Hermon Rd. saying "Conective Where Are You?!" Fortunately, these were isolated outages and people could still drive to get fuel and fresh food. A prolonged nationwide electrical grid failure can present life threatening circumstances for everyone in this country - unless you prepare.
So where do you begin to prepare for a short term natural or manmade disaster? Short term disasters presume that for the most part law enforcement and social fabric remain intact. While law enforcement may be tied up saving lives and things of that nature, it still functions as part of that social fabric.The five most important areas of survival are Shelter, Food and water, Security, Medical, and Communication. For short term prepping, the first three are the most important.
Shelter - should I stay of should I go? There should be specific triggers that determine whether you should remain in your home or head for high ground (bug out). Everyones trigger point is different based in personal issues, such as small children, health conditions, etc. You should determine what your triggers are and make them part of your plan. If you plan to leave be sure to have the resources available to facilitate your evacuation - including a destination. DO NOT wait until evacuation time to think of a place to go. If you plan to stay be sure to have the resources available to facilitate that as well. Since most disasters include disruption of power, a generator is essential with plenty of fuel on hand. It would be preferable to have a diesel generator since diesel fuel can be stored for extremely long periods of time. Have your house wired well in advance and be familiar with how to disconnect the main breaker and direct the power supply to you electric panel. Ration your power useage so that you can run the generator for just an hour or two a day. Modern freezers keep food cold for long periods of time without power. Turn the power on only often enough to keep your freezer cold. While it is running, use the power to run your well pump to fill large containers (tub, barrels, jugs) with water and take care of hygiene requirements. Heat will be extremely important in the winter. Most generators won't create enough power to supply heat pumps, electric baseboard heaters, etc. It would be in your best interest to install a wood stove (not pellet) or a gas log fireplace to heat your house. Again, having plenty of fuel on hand will be at the top of the list of every succesful prepper.
Food and water - how much is too much? For most preppers, a good rule of thumb is 3-6 months worth of non-perishable foods. Canned goods should be maintained in a location that permits you to monitor expiration dates and to consume food using the FIFO method - First In, First Out. Once the stockpile is full you should use it as you normally would, replacing it as it is consumed. The idea that you will run out into the woods and kill enough food to feed your family is not just impractical as well as impossible, it is the same idea that 30,000 other people in Wicomico County will have. Stockpiling 3-6 months worth of food will allow you to focus on other important pressing issues that you will face. It will also allow you to help your neighbors who will not be as prepared as you. Charity is something you should consider constantly as you prepare. Water we covered above using well pumps while your generator is running. If you live in a city or town on the shore, you can still hand drive a well in your yard for "irrigation purposes only" ;-) with a pitcher pump. Keep in mind that in cases of flooding, it may be necessary to treat water before drinking. Water purification tablets can be obtained from Gander Mountain, Wal-Mart, or on-line at Cheaperthandirt.com and Cabelas.com.
Security - and we're not talking alarms here. That's right folks - guns. There, I said it. In a situation where lack of food, water, and possibly shelter intersects with a desperate population that has failed to prepare in the same manner you have, the need for personal security will become obvious in less than 72 hours. Law enforcement will not be able to protect you and your family. No excuses. Nothing you can say can obsolve you of your responsibility to protect yourself and your family from anyone who would harm you to take what you need to survive. This is where the rubber meets the road. Security doesn't mean buying a gun and shooting anyone who comes to your door. Security means developing a plan to keep your home, your family, and your supplies safe and implementing the plan using any and all necessary tools - including guns - to get it done. Security may mean a dog as an early alert. It may mean manning an LP/OP 24/7 until things return to normal. In all situations it means that someone remain awake at all times to alert others of any impending danger. It may mean inviting family and/or friends into your home to assure that there are enough people present to carry out this critical task. Security means that one is armed constantly while outdoors. It means that outdoors means on your property only - no wandering the country side. It means that larger properties - such as farms - need to be actually patrolled randomely, never routinely. It means that if at all possible, anyone going outdoors should do so with a partner. Prepping means becoming thoroughly familiar your weapons and your plan BEFORE an emergency arises. It means becoming an effective marksman.
It should be noted that security should be implemented as soon as the decision is made to either evacuate or stay. Incidentally, if you decide to evacuate you still must provide for the food/water and security aspects of survival while enroute to your bug out location and after you arrive.
Prepping isn't something you do a day a month or a week a year. Prepping is a way of life. Everyday you monitor the things going on in the world. You conserve and learn to conserve even more. You learn to be self sufficient. You learn to be compassionate and charitable. You learn to live in a way forgotten in the last 40 years
With any luck, after an incident such as the one mentioned above, electric companies and other utilities will make the necessary repairs and slowely life will return to some degree of normalcy as the infrastructure and food supply lines become re-established. Then we can all look back and appreciate the results of our efforts to be able to provide for our families. If they aren't repaired - if the food supply lines aren't re-established - the breakdown of our society will increase exponentially. The government will implement martial law and the military will take over all law enforcement functions. The constitution will be suspended - temporarily at first - and curfews will be implemented. Anarchy will be the flavor of the day. Our short term scenario has intensified and long term survival will the focus of all prudent preppers. In part 2 we will discuss preparation for long term survival, the development of a group of preppers, and the establishment of a trading/bartering network..
Senior Moment - Or Just Mulling A Response?
Seniors may be just as mentally agile as younger people. The reason their thinking appears sluggish is they mull things over longer, a new study shows.
Researchers have found that when people aged 60 and older are asked to make quick decisions, they respond as slowly as young children. And both groups react much more slowly than young adults, according to the study published in Child Development.
Iowa's Evangelicals Moving To Santorum
Signs that Rick Santorum is suddenly a contender in the race for the Republican nomination for president were all over Iowa on Thursday.
The former Pennsylvania senator - who has built his long-shot campaign around trying to appeal to evangelical Christians in the Iowa caucuses on Tuesday - received a boost when several prominent preachers said their followers were coalescing behind Santorum.
Some preachers called on one of Santorum's chief rivals for the influential evangelical vote, Minnesota congresswoman Michele Bachmann, to abandon her campaign, or fold hers into Santorum's.
"It seems to me that it's time for her to close down shop," said Cary Gordon, a Sioux City pastor who said the move would allow conservative Christians to speak with one voice - and possibly prevent a victory in Iowa by Mitt Romney or Ron Paul.
Many evangelicals see Romney, a former Massachusetts governor, as too moderate and Paul, a Texas congressman backed by libertarians, as unelectable. The winner of the Republican nomination faces Democratic President Barack Obama in November.
"The reality is, we are divided and being conquered, so to speak, if we don't coalesce around one candidate," Gordon said.
In perhaps the most significant sign that Santorum had arrived as a contender, Texas Governor Rick Perry - the third candidate in the GOP field who has made a special point of attracting evangelicals - launched a negative radio ad against Santorum.
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The former Pennsylvania senator - who has built his long-shot campaign around trying to appeal to evangelical Christians in the Iowa caucuses on Tuesday - received a boost when several prominent preachers said their followers were coalescing behind Santorum.
Some preachers called on one of Santorum's chief rivals for the influential evangelical vote, Minnesota congresswoman Michele Bachmann, to abandon her campaign, or fold hers into Santorum's.
"It seems to me that it's time for her to close down shop," said Cary Gordon, a Sioux City pastor who said the move would allow conservative Christians to speak with one voice - and possibly prevent a victory in Iowa by Mitt Romney or Ron Paul.
Many evangelicals see Romney, a former Massachusetts governor, as too moderate and Paul, a Texas congressman backed by libertarians, as unelectable. The winner of the Republican nomination faces Democratic President Barack Obama in November.
"The reality is, we are divided and being conquered, so to speak, if we don't coalesce around one candidate," Gordon said.
In perhaps the most significant sign that Santorum had arrived as a contender, Texas Governor Rick Perry - the third candidate in the GOP field who has made a special point of attracting evangelicals - launched a negative radio ad against Santorum.
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5 Great Uses For Old Computers
So you have recently upgraded to Windows 7, or maybe even a new Mac, but what should you do with the old Windows XP clunker that is taking up space in your living room? Older computers can still be put to another couple years of good use before they make the trip to computer heaven. For example, older computers can be set up as media center systems, with audio/video hookups to your surround sound system and TV. Another popular option is trying out a Linux operating system on the older computer. I have 2 custom built desktops, both XP era, which are running newer Linux distributions.
One option for the more technologically adept is to set up a home server, especially if you have several computers in your house. You can pay for a system such as Windows Home Server, or use a free one such as FreeNAS or Ubuntu Server. The free ones are solid competitors, but lack the graphical interface that most home PC users are comfortable with.
http://howto.cnet.com/8301-11310_39-20087202-285/5-great-uses-for-your-old-windows-computer/?tag=epicStories
Mike's Tech Service
mdtechservice@comcast.net
One option for the more technologically adept is to set up a home server, especially if you have several computers in your house. You can pay for a system such as Windows Home Server, or use a free one such as FreeNAS or Ubuntu Server. The free ones are solid competitors, but lack the graphical interface that most home PC users are comfortable with.
http://howto.cnet.com/8301-11310_39-20087202-285/5-great-uses-for-your-old-windows-computer/?tag=epicStories
Mike's Tech Service
mdtechservice@comcast.net
Avoiding The New Year's Hangover
New Year's Eve for many is a night of celebration (I on the other hand will probably be home and in bed by 10:00 p.m.) and some take that celebrating a littletoo far. The champagne may taste great that evening but the headache and sometimes nausea at the dawn of the New Year is more than most people can take.
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Voting / Election Districts
Joe,
I have been following this 2010 reorganization of voting districts and am clueless as to the “agenda” Well, maybe just against the “agenda” is a better way to state it. Currently, our governor wishes to draw zig zaggy lines around populated areas delineating lines between neighborhoods according to race. Why? What about LGTB’s? or Jews/ Catholics? Or murderers vs. robbers? Or Repubs vs Dems? Jeeze! What ever happened to the idea set forth in the Constitution that sets areas according to….wait for it…. POPULATION!!!! What are we and our congressmen and Governors even talking about “up there”?
Please encourage your congressmen and Governor to politely read and obey the Article I section II which is in the first 3 paragraphs. Takes longer to find and open the book than it takes to read it. By the way, they did take an oath when they took this job to read and obey this…
This crap is happening nationwide tight now and needs to stop and be done correctly, sorry.
Gary Bullard
I have been following this 2010 reorganization of voting districts and am clueless as to the “agenda” Well, maybe just against the “agenda” is a better way to state it. Currently, our governor wishes to draw zig zaggy lines around populated areas delineating lines between neighborhoods according to race. Why? What about LGTB’s? or Jews/ Catholics? Or murderers vs. robbers? Or Repubs vs Dems? Jeeze! What ever happened to the idea set forth in the Constitution that sets areas according to….wait for it…. POPULATION!!!! What are we and our congressmen and Governors even talking about “up there”?
Please encourage your congressmen and Governor to politely read and obey the Article I section II which is in the first 3 paragraphs. Takes longer to find and open the book than it takes to read it. By the way, they did take an oath when they took this job to read and obey this…
This crap is happening nationwide tight now and needs to stop and be done correctly, sorry.
Gary Bullard
Arizona Parents Arrested Over Alleged Facebook Images Of Duct Tape-Bound Children
Two northern Arizona parents were arrested after photos of their young children allegedly being abused were posted on Facebook.
An anonymous Facebook user reportedly alerted authorities on Wednesday after seeing two children, an infant and a toddler, bound with duct tape around their wrists and ankles in photos posted to the social networking site, Fox affiliate KSAZ-TV reported.
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Man In China Spends $16,000 On Virtual Sword For Video Game
Most people wouldn’t blow $16,000 on a real antique sword from ancient China, let alone a virtual sword for a video game set in ancient China.
Not only did a man cough up enough cash for a mid-sized sedan, he did it for a game that’s not even out yet: Age of Wulin, soon to be released in Mainland China by Snail Games. The game is a fantasy MMORPG, or massively multiplayer online role-playing game, not unlike the immensely popular World of Warcraft.
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Middletown's Hummers Parade Promises To Poke Fun At Everyone
While other places are canceling their New Years festivities due to budget cuts, the longstanding tradition of the Hummer's Parade lives on in Middletown.
While the Mummer's parade is serious business, the Hummers Parade, a long-standing tradition in Middletown, has a sense of humor.
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While the Mummer's parade is serious business, the Hummers Parade, a long-standing tradition in Middletown, has a sense of humor.
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Troopers Probe Rehoboth Area Robbery
Location: Colonial Lane, Colonial East, Rehoboth, DE
Date of Occurrence: Friday, December 30, 2011 at 2:50 a.m.
Suspects:
Two white males approximately 30 years of age (no further description)
Victim:
48 year old Rehoboth, DE man
Resume:
Rehoboth, DE- The Delaware State Police are currently investigating the robbery of a Rehoboth man who was pushed from a moving vehicle early this morning.
The incident happened at approximately 2:50 a.m. this morning, December 30th, after a 48 year old Rehoboth, DE man was at the Wawa Convenience Store located at SR 1 and SR 24 in Rehoboth. The victim, who had driven to the store, realized that he did not have money in order to purchase gas for his vehicle. He then asked two male suspects for a ride to his residence, located in the unit block of Colonial Lane, in Rehoboth, in order to obtain money for fuel. The suspects agreed and drove the victim to his home. After obtaining money from his house, the victim got back into the suspect’s car at which time one of the suspects began to assault him. The suspect then took money from the victim and pushed him out of the car as it was moving. Both suspects then fled in an unknown direction.
The victim was transported by EMS to the Beebe Memorial Hospital where he was treated for his non life threatening injuries.
The Delaware State Police are asking anyone who may have any information in reference to this incident to contact Troop 7 at 302-644-5020. Citizens may also provide a tip by texting keyword “DSP” plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES). Tipsters may also provide information through lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333. Callers can also submit information via the internet at http://www.tipsubmit.com/.
Date of Occurrence: Friday, December 30, 2011 at 2:50 a.m.
Suspects:
Two white males approximately 30 years of age (no further description)
Victim:
48 year old Rehoboth, DE man
Resume:
Rehoboth, DE- The Delaware State Police are currently investigating the robbery of a Rehoboth man who was pushed from a moving vehicle early this morning.
The incident happened at approximately 2:50 a.m. this morning, December 30th, after a 48 year old Rehoboth, DE man was at the Wawa Convenience Store located at SR 1 and SR 24 in Rehoboth. The victim, who had driven to the store, realized that he did not have money in order to purchase gas for his vehicle. He then asked two male suspects for a ride to his residence, located in the unit block of Colonial Lane, in Rehoboth, in order to obtain money for fuel. The suspects agreed and drove the victim to his home. After obtaining money from his house, the victim got back into the suspect’s car at which time one of the suspects began to assault him. The suspect then took money from the victim and pushed him out of the car as it was moving. Both suspects then fled in an unknown direction.
The victim was transported by EMS to the Beebe Memorial Hospital where he was treated for his non life threatening injuries.
The Delaware State Police are asking anyone who may have any information in reference to this incident to contact Troop 7 at 302-644-5020. Citizens may also provide a tip by texting keyword “DSP” plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES). Tipsters may also provide information through lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333. Callers can also submit information via the internet at http://www.tipsubmit.com/.
What Americans Keep Ignoring About Finland's School Success
Everyone agrees the United States needs to improve its education system dramatically, but how? One of the hottest trends in education reform lately is looking at the stunning success of the West's reigning education superpower, Finland. Trouble is, when it comes to the lessons that Finnish schools have to offer, most of the discussion seems to be missing the point.
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Doh! The Top 10 Tech 'Fails' Of 2011
(CNN) -- Can't win 'em all, can you?
The highs were pretty high in the tech world in 2011, as new gadgets, updates and advances delighted the masses. I mean, Facebook made a change that most people (so far) seemed to actually like. What are the odds?
But the lows were lower. For every moment of digital bliss, it seemed, there was a clunker of equal or greater magnitude.
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But the lows were lower. For every moment of digital bliss, it seemed, there was a clunker of equal or greater magnitude.
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Arizona Clinic Won't Take Credit Cards Over The Phone, Euthanizes Cat Instead
An Arizona man didn't have the $400 for his injured cat's vet care, and the Humane Society clinic he visited wouldn't take his mother's credit card information over the phone or wait for . So he did what he thought was the best thing for 9-month-old Scruffy: surrender ownership to the organization so she would receive treatment. He was told that he could adopt her back later on. A lack of resources meant that Scruffy, whose injuries were not life-threatening, was euthanized instead.
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Nathan Chapman Set For Release
Figure at center of pension scandal imprisoned 41/2 years
Nathan A. Chapman Jr., the once-prominent money manager whose fraudulent investments in his own companies caused a scandal for Maryland's public employee pension system, is scheduled to be released from federal custody Friday after serving 41/2 years.
Chapman, convicted by a federal jury in 2004 on 23 counts of fraud and filing false tax returns, was most recently assigned to an undisclosed halfway house run out of Annapolis Junction, according to a Bureau of Prisons website.
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Nathan A. Chapman Jr., the once-prominent money manager whose fraudulent investments in his own companies caused a scandal for Maryland's public employee pension system, is scheduled to be released from federal custody Friday after serving 41/2 years.
Chapman, convicted by a federal jury in 2004 on 23 counts of fraud and filing false tax returns, was most recently assigned to an undisclosed halfway house run out of Annapolis Junction, according to a Bureau of Prisons website.
More
Worcester County Sheriffs Office Press Release
On 12/22/2011 the Worcester County Sheriffs Office responded to Lilac Lane in Pocomoke reference a Missing Person.
The Sheriffs Office is requesting assistance with locating Carol Ann Comegy Chandler, W/F age 40. Ms Chandler was recently investigated by the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation and charged reference Theft. Ms Chandlers husband stated that she fled the residence shortly after 0230 hrs.
Ms Chandler was last observed in blue pajamas and a West Virginia sweatshirt. When Mr. Chandler awoke on 12/23 his wife had left the residence.
Please contact the Worcester County Sheriffs Office at 410 632 1112 with any information.
The Sheriffs Office is requesting assistance with locating Carol Ann Comegy Chandler, W/F age 40. Ms Chandler was recently investigated by the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation and charged reference Theft. Ms Chandlers husband stated that she fled the residence shortly after 0230 hrs.
Ms Chandler was last observed in blue pajamas and a West Virginia sweatshirt. When Mr. Chandler awoke on 12/23 his wife had left the residence.
Please contact the Worcester County Sheriffs Office at 410 632 1112 with any information.
Beretta Jetfire .22 Short
At a 'best pistol for self defense forum', the question came up: what is the smallest caliber you trust to protect yourself...
My personal favorite bear defense gun has always been a Beretta Jetfire .22 short! I've found over the years when hiking in bear country I never leave without it in my pocket. Of course we all know the first rule when hiking in the wilderness is to use the "Buddy System". For those of you who may be unfamiliar with this it means you NEVER hike alone, you bring a friend or companion, even an in-law, that way if something happens there is someone to go get help. I remember one time hiking with my brother-in-law in Alaska. Out of nowhere came this huge Grizzly and man was she MAD! We must have been near one of her cubs. Any way if I had not had my little jetfire I am sure I would not be here today.
That's right, one shot to my brother-in-law's knee cap and I was able to escape by just walking at a brisk pace. That's one of the best pistols in my safe!
My personal favorite bear defense gun has always been a Beretta Jetfire .22 short! I've found over the years when hiking in bear country I never leave without it in my pocket. Of course we all know the first rule when hiking in the wilderness is to use the "Buddy System". For those of you who may be unfamiliar with this it means you NEVER hike alone, you bring a friend or companion, even an in-law, that way if something happens there is someone to go get help. I remember one time hiking with my brother-in-law in Alaska. Out of nowhere came this huge Grizzly and man was she MAD! We must have been near one of her cubs. Any way if I had not had my little jetfire I am sure I would not be here today.
That's right, one shot to my brother-in-law's knee cap and I was able to escape by just walking at a brisk pace. That's one of the best pistols in my safe!
Delegate Mike McDermott On Plan Maryland
Once again, the O’Malley administration and its apologists have sown division in our state with another program, they claim, we cannot live without: Plan Maryland. Those who naively claim the plan does not remove local authority need to follow the money. If a local governing body gets out of step with the governor’s cadence, state money will serve as the whip of conformity.
There is nothing wrong with planning. In fact, communities are required to maintain Comprehensive Plans for growth and development in Maryland and the state has always provided guidance and support. They are reviewed periodically and updated by the folks who know and recognize the dreams, hopes, and desires of their affected community.
I get concerned when the state wants “more teeth” in planning laws and guidelines. That is code for “inflexibility” or the desire to make land use decisions that are etched in stone rather than drawn on paper. In America and a free Maryland, we use to value the private property rights of each other. In fact, we use to understand their importance to our foundational moorings. The idea that more governmental control and bureaucracy enhances or increases my freedom would prove anathema to the ears of Presidents Washington, Adams, or Jefferson.
Who has the right to declare that your city or town can only grow to a certain line? What if a crossroads decides to be something more? What if a farmer decides he wants to diversify and divide up his property? Where did our cities and towns come from in the first place? Why should these decisions fall to bureaucrats in Annapolis and Baltimore? Ironically, it was royalty who first directed their growth.
These matters would be tragic enough if they came through an elected General Assembly, but the governor is enacting them by Executive Order...he simply wills them to be so. These are not the actions of a representative government. Considering the overwhelming bi-partisan rejection of the O’Malley septic plan last session, its clear the governor has decided to bypass the people and go straight to dictating.
By way of example, only 7.24% of Worcester County is developed and 69% of our total land and water resources are already controlled by the government. Plan Maryland says, “that is not enough”. The plan calls for “saving” 300,000 acres of farmland over the next 25 years. The only way the land can be “saved” is by a taking. Farmers will lose their property rights and future development will not occur...all in the name of “freedom” and a “greater good”.
New technology is rendering obsolete the notion that owner operated septic systems cannot be environmentally neutral and state of the art farming techniques continue to enhance output while protecting the environment.The fact is, technology is outpacing our best planning efforts and rendering the science, conjectures, and cost-benefit analysis null and void.
Through Plan Maryland, proponents call upon the government to “use any means necessary” to demand that growth only occur in existing cities and towns, and bureaucracy, once created, results in freedom lost one code at a time.
We would do well to remember that a benevolent tyrant is a tyrant none the less.
Marylanders, take back your state!
Another Great Pohanka Experience
Joe,
Thanks for recommending that I contact Chris Hagel at Pohanka Automotive to find a good car for my daughter. Its the best car buying experience I ever had. Not only did he find the perfect car for her and interest rate I never expected but the whole process took only 2 hours for my daughter to drive out with a better vehicle than she expected for quite a bit less money.
Thanks again Joe, I will definitely recommend Pohanka to my friends and coworkers.
Have a good new year.
Local MSM Go At It Again Concerning Campbell & Charlie
Ocean City Today and the Coastal Dispatch headlined Earl Campbell and Chief DiPino for yet another week.
“Would they have sold the dog for $1 if it didn’t need surgery? Why would they have a gag order against them talking about him needing surgery to begin with?” Campbell asked.
Meanwhile the allegations of misconduct made on the Salisbury News blog are still anonymous and Jim Hall said the absence of a bill for the surgery creates more questions about the situation.
“Whether the dog had surgery or not, that’s now between the officer and the dog,” Hall said. “Nobody is willing to stand up and sign their name to this blog. It’s up to the chief to do the investigation up there and find if she’s got a problem.”
It's good to know Joe Hall follows Salisbury News. However, there were quite a few people who signed their names to comments, just to set the record straight. I find it most interesting, however, that Hall makes such a comment KNOWING there's a gag order on Police Officers and what would happen to them IF they used their name to speak up. Like a typical politician, he wants to attempt to cast doubt in people's minds that these comments are or are not credible.
Well Joe Hall, you keep mentioning a "blog". How about the Daily Times Grapevine? How about an admitted internal investigation on a matter that is NOT criminal? How about a Police Force making illegal calls demanding information on a matter that is not only not criminal, they do NOT own the animal. How about the FACT that Campbell NEVER asked to be reimbursed. How about the Department forcing their Officers to fill out a "95" formal report stating if you did or didn't make a comment on a "blog". They never mentioned comments on WBOC, WMDT, Facebook, Twitter or the Daily Times, they said, Blog.
Mr. Hall, I lived in Ocean City and owned three residences there for many years. Here's what I'm seeing, so you, the Mayor and the rest of the Council know ahead of time. I have seen enough crooked crap in one City over many years that I have decided to expand Salisbury News into Ocean City in 2012.
There are more drug problems, under age drinking, good old boy network and multiple other code violations in which its about time someone like Salisbury News come to town and wake the public up to reality, just like we have done in Salisbury for so many years.
I can recall a few years ago when Mayor Rick Mehan said, "you're not planning on opening up shop in Ocean City, are you". At that time I said no. At this time I say, absolutely, yes.
So to ALL of the Ocean City residents reading Salisbury News, if you'd like to come on board and give back to your community, we're looking for a few good writers willing to go to meetings. Please contact me at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com. Let's give the OC Today, Dispatch and the Daily Times a run for their money. Let's report the REAL NEWS and not the Good Ol' Boy news. Here's the cool part too, YOU can remain anonymouse, (if you like).
To those Ocean City businesses interested in advertising with Salisbury News, know this up front. We are NOT controlled or dependent from our advertisers. We break news like no other news source out there and we have never been afraid to tell it like it is. Therefore, IF someone thinks they're going to come on board in the hope of influencing what we say or do, DON'T CONTACT US. We reserve the right to deny ANY advertiser for ANY reason. We take much pride in the people we choose to join our Family of Advertisers as they know who and what we're about.
2012 will prove to be yet another incredible year for Salisbury News. Look out Boys and Girls, things are about to get even more interesting here on the Eastern Shore.
I want to add, why is the OC Today and Coastal Dispatch so afraid to truly challenge the Mayor, Police Chief and Council? Is it not plain to see that this dog belongs to Earl Campbell and not the City? Is it not plain to see that Veterinarian documents WERE provided to assure the dog was injured enough to retire the dog before they signed over ownership? Is it not plain to see that the orders from the Chief were out of line, since there was no criminal charges and since Campbell never asked to be reimbursed?
While I too would like to see a formal receipt, Campbell is under NO obligation to provide any such receipt. Why do these newspapers continue to produce "SAFE" stories in which they stay neutral on both sides. I believe this is what is causing the failure of the Main Stream Media today. Go back 30 years and look at how the news was delivered then. That's what Salisbury News delivers today and that's why this "Blog" is blowing away the rest of the media on the Shore. Just look at how the MSM attacks the "gossip" comments on a Blog, yet they have been doing the exact same thing for years through the Grapevine, fulfilling their own political agenda.
Wake Up People.
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