DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Maryland Officials Worry About Bay Bridge Safety
WASHINGTON - It's almost the time of the year when thousands of Washingtonians start crossing the Chesapeake Bay bridge every weekend to spend some time on Maryland's Eastern shore, but two Maryland lawmakers say they're concerned about the bridge's safety.
Speaking on WTOP's Politics Program with Mark Plotkin, both Maryland House Minority Leader Anthony O'Donnell and Democratic Del. Joseline Pena-Melnyk expressed concerns about the bridge's safety.
"It is unsafe, and we know that already," says Pena-Melnyk.
The Maryland Transportation Authority, which runs the bridge, has made some safety upgrades following deadly crashes, but O'Donnell says it's also about the traffic.
"The capacity of that bridge is failing," says O'Donnell.
More
Speaking on WTOP's Politics Program with Mark Plotkin, both Maryland House Minority Leader Anthony O'Donnell and Democratic Del. Joseline Pena-Melnyk expressed concerns about the bridge's safety.
"It is unsafe, and we know that already," says Pena-Melnyk.
The Maryland Transportation Authority, which runs the bridge, has made some safety upgrades following deadly crashes, but O'Donnell says it's also about the traffic.
"The capacity of that bridge is failing," says O'Donnell.
More
Troop Drawdown Under Way
It is a critical time for American efforts in Iraq. Troop drawdowns are underway as the military continues its plans to transition from a Defense Department to a State Department run mission. All U.S. troops as slated to leave Iraq by December 31st of this year. Joining us to talk about the process and how the military is working to achieve its goals and deadlines is Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Buchanan, a spokesperson for U.S. Forces in Iraq.
School Official Resigns Amid Sun Investigation Into His College Degrees
A high-ranking city school official, whose resume includes degrees from institutions that require little or no classroom work and which academic watchdog groups have referred to as "diploma mills," resigned abruptly Thursday after questions about his credentials were raised by The Baltimore Sun.
TROOPERS INVESTIGATING DEATH OF TANEYTOWN MAN
(TANEYTOWN, MD) – Maryland State Police are investigating the death of a Taneytown man who was found dead in his townhome late yesterday afternoon when a concerned neighbor checked on him.
The man is identified as Carey M. Landskroner, 44, of the 400-block of Red Tulip Court, Taneytown, Md. He was pronounced dead at the scene. He is believed to have lived alone in the townhome.
Just before 5:00 p.m. yesterday, Maryland State Police at the Westminster Barrack received a 911 call from a neighbor of Landskroner who said he had gone to check on the man after not seeing him for a couple of days. The neighbor reported he saw an open window covered by a blind. He moved the blind aside and saw Landskroner lying on the floor.
Maryland state troopers and Taneytown Police Department officers responded to the scene. Upon entering the home, police found the victim deceased and observed that he had sustained trauma to his left arm, leg and side.
Troopers also observed evidence that indicated some type of explosion may have occurred in the home. There were holes in the wall and the chair near Landskroner had what appeared to be charring on it.
After seeing this, troopers requested technicians from the Office of the State Fire Marshal respond to check the townhome for explosives. Out of precaution, troopers evacuated residents from about 25 homes in the area until the search could be conducted.
Office of the State Fire Marshal explosive experts searched the home and found no explosives or explosive devices, although they believe some type of explosion may have occurred in the home. Residents were permitted to return to their homes about 11:00 p.m. yesterday.
Maryland State Police crime scene technicians are continuing to process the scene for evidence as of midnight tonight. Criminal investigators from the Westminster Barrack, as well as deputy state fire marshals remain on the scene and are continuing the investigation.
A cause of death for Landskroner has not been determined at this time. His body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy.
The man is identified as Carey M. Landskroner, 44, of the 400-block of Red Tulip Court, Taneytown, Md. He was pronounced dead at the scene. He is believed to have lived alone in the townhome.
Just before 5:00 p.m. yesterday, Maryland State Police at the Westminster Barrack received a 911 call from a neighbor of Landskroner who said he had gone to check on the man after not seeing him for a couple of days. The neighbor reported he saw an open window covered by a blind. He moved the blind aside and saw Landskroner lying on the floor.
Maryland state troopers and Taneytown Police Department officers responded to the scene. Upon entering the home, police found the victim deceased and observed that he had sustained trauma to his left arm, leg and side.
Troopers also observed evidence that indicated some type of explosion may have occurred in the home. There were holes in the wall and the chair near Landskroner had what appeared to be charring on it.
After seeing this, troopers requested technicians from the Office of the State Fire Marshal respond to check the townhome for explosives. Out of precaution, troopers evacuated residents from about 25 homes in the area until the search could be conducted.
Office of the State Fire Marshal explosive experts searched the home and found no explosives or explosive devices, although they believe some type of explosion may have occurred in the home. Residents were permitted to return to their homes about 11:00 p.m. yesterday.
Maryland State Police crime scene technicians are continuing to process the scene for evidence as of midnight tonight. Criminal investigators from the Westminster Barrack, as well as deputy state fire marshals remain on the scene and are continuing the investigation.
A cause of death for Landskroner has not been determined at this time. His body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy.
Three Convicted In Terror-Related Cases Later Granted U.S. Citizenship By Obama Administration
Three people convicted of crimes as a result of a terrorism-related investigation by the Department of Justice (DOJ) were later naturalized as U.S. citizens by the Obama administration, according to federal auditors.
The March 2011 audit (released on April 21, 2011) by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), entitled Criminal Alien Statistics: Information on Incarcerations, Arrests and Costs, shows that three individuals were among “defendants where the investigation involved an identified link to international terrorism but they were charged with violating other statutes [not directly related to terrorism], including fraud, immigration, drugs, false statements, and general conspiracy charges,” referred by DOJ as Category II terrorism-related cases.
The three individuals in question can be found in a DOJ list of unsealed terrorism-related investigations conducted from Sept. 11, 2001 through Mar. 18, 2010. There are 403 defendants on that list of which, according to the GAO, at least 43 percent were aliens--both legal (26 percent) and illegal (17 percent)--at the time they were charged with crimes.
“Prosecuting terror-related targets using Category II offenses and others is often an effective method--and sometimes the only available method--of deterring and disrupting potential terrorist planning and support activities,” explained the DOJ in the document that listed the defendants.
Staff members of GAO's Homeland Security and Justice team who worked on the audit told CNSNews.com in an e-mail that the three individuals were naturalized as U.S. citizens under President Barack Obama.
“One of the individuals was naturalized in late 2009. The other two were naturalized in 2010,” says the e-mail from the GAO.
Read more
The March 2011 audit (released on April 21, 2011) by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), entitled Criminal Alien Statistics: Information on Incarcerations, Arrests and Costs, shows that three individuals were among “defendants where the investigation involved an identified link to international terrorism but they were charged with violating other statutes [not directly related to terrorism], including fraud, immigration, drugs, false statements, and general conspiracy charges,” referred by DOJ as Category II terrorism-related cases.
The three individuals in question can be found in a DOJ list of unsealed terrorism-related investigations conducted from Sept. 11, 2001 through Mar. 18, 2010. There are 403 defendants on that list of which, according to the GAO, at least 43 percent were aliens--both legal (26 percent) and illegal (17 percent)--at the time they were charged with crimes.
“Prosecuting terror-related targets using Category II offenses and others is often an effective method--and sometimes the only available method--of deterring and disrupting potential terrorist planning and support activities,” explained the DOJ in the document that listed the defendants.
Staff members of GAO's Homeland Security and Justice team who worked on the audit told CNSNews.com in an e-mail that the three individuals were naturalized as U.S. citizens under President Barack Obama.
“One of the individuals was naturalized in late 2009. The other two were naturalized in 2010,” says the e-mail from the GAO.
Read more
Israel Braces For 'Large-Scale' Unrest In West Bank
Israel is preparing for widespread Palestinian unrest.
Officials said the ruling Fatah movement was expected to foment unrest throughout the West Bank and particularly in the Jerusalem area. They said Fatah wanted to organize riots and attacks on Israelis in wake of the movement's initial agreement with Hamas.
"We're looking at the most severe scenario," Israeli police chief Inspector-General David Cohen said.
In a briefing on April 28, Cohen, who commands a force of 27,000, said authorities expected the Palestinian violence to intensify within days. He said police and security forces were intensifying deployment and intelligence to respond to unrest.
"We are preparing for the whole of the month of May," Cohen said. "We are conducting a repeat inspection of all of the headquarters. The scenario includes large-scale disruptions of order."
Officials said Palestinian unrest was expected to escalate through an expected United Nations vote on Palestinian statehood in September 2011. They said Israel's military and security forces have agreed to increase coordination to help quell riots and attacks.
More
Officials said the ruling Fatah movement was expected to foment unrest throughout the West Bank and particularly in the Jerusalem area. They said Fatah wanted to organize riots and attacks on Israelis in wake of the movement's initial agreement with Hamas.
"We're looking at the most severe scenario," Israeli police chief Inspector-General David Cohen said.
In a briefing on April 28, Cohen, who commands a force of 27,000, said authorities expected the Palestinian violence to intensify within days. He said police and security forces were intensifying deployment and intelligence to respond to unrest.
"We are preparing for the whole of the month of May," Cohen said. "We are conducting a repeat inspection of all of the headquarters. The scenario includes large-scale disruptions of order."
Officials said Palestinian unrest was expected to escalate through an expected United Nations vote on Palestinian statehood in September 2011. They said Israel's military and security forces have agreed to increase coordination to help quell riots and attacks.
More
PLC Member Puts The Lie To Abbas' Vow To Talk
Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) member and Fatah party member Fuad Kokali put the lie to PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas' claims he will negotiate with Israel Thursday.
In an interview with the pro-'Palestinian' Alternative Information Center, Kokali said "it is a must to have this reconciliation because we need the world to recognize a... Palestinian state and without Gaza ... this weakens our position."
"And now they are building a new policy to stop the Palestinian state in September," Kokali said about opposition to unilateral PA efforts outside the Oslo framework that circumvent peace negotiations with Israel, to gain a declaration of statehood by the United Nations in September.
"And they justify their actions [saying] that still the region is not ready, the Palestinians are not ready. So they took the position of Israel. And so that means we have to negotiate another 20 years. And I think this will be refused by the Palestinians," Kokali said.
Kokali also admitted Hamas had not agreed to pursue peace with Israel - one of the Quartet's key conditions for the admission of Hamas to the Palestinian Authority if it wishes to retain legitimacy.
"For Hamas there is no other choice so they will go for this [unity]," Kokali said. "But, if we are talking about principles, for example what will be the position with Hamas toward the peace process, or Fatah, this we will continue to negotiate later."
"We will continue to negotiate with Hamas about the peace process, about the peace with Israel, about the resistance, and what kind of resistance we need if peace fails .. this needs more negotiation," Kokali said.
Kokali's admission that Hamas only agreed to unity because it had no choice, and that Hamas' position vis-a-vis Fatah remained ambigous, underscores not only the tenuous nature of the agreement, but also the tenuous permanence any PA-Israel agreement would have.
It also buttresses concerns the inclusion of Hamas in the PA may lead to a Hamas takeover of PA areas in Judea and Samaria.
INN
In an interview with the pro-'Palestinian' Alternative Information Center, Kokali said "it is a must to have this reconciliation because we need the world to recognize a... Palestinian state and without Gaza ... this weakens our position."
"And now they are building a new policy to stop the Palestinian state in September," Kokali said about opposition to unilateral PA efforts outside the Oslo framework that circumvent peace negotiations with Israel, to gain a declaration of statehood by the United Nations in September.
"And they justify their actions [saying] that still the region is not ready, the Palestinians are not ready. So they took the position of Israel. And so that means we have to negotiate another 20 years. And I think this will be refused by the Palestinians," Kokali said.
Kokali also admitted Hamas had not agreed to pursue peace with Israel - one of the Quartet's key conditions for the admission of Hamas to the Palestinian Authority if it wishes to retain legitimacy.
"For Hamas there is no other choice so they will go for this [unity]," Kokali said. "But, if we are talking about principles, for example what will be the position with Hamas toward the peace process, or Fatah, this we will continue to negotiate later."
"We will continue to negotiate with Hamas about the peace process, about the peace with Israel, about the resistance, and what kind of resistance we need if peace fails .. this needs more negotiation," Kokali said.
Kokali's admission that Hamas only agreed to unity because it had no choice, and that Hamas' position vis-a-vis Fatah remained ambigous, underscores not only the tenuous nature of the agreement, but also the tenuous permanence any PA-Israel agreement would have.
It also buttresses concerns the inclusion of Hamas in the PA may lead to a Hamas takeover of PA areas in Judea and Samaria.
INN
GOP Bill Would Require Birth Certificate From Presidential Candidates
A GOP lawmaker will introduce legislation in the coming weeks to require any candidate running for president to file a copy of his or her birth certificate with the Federal Election Commission.
“It’s the right thing to do and it’s long overdue,” Rep. Bill Posey (R-Fla.), the bill’s sponsor, wrote in an email to The Hill.
Posey insisted the legislation is not directed at President Obama, who has battled charges that he was not born in the U.S. and is ineligible to serve as president since before he entered the Oval Office.
“This legislation has never been about one candidate,” Posey wrote. “It’s been about addressing something that’s come up at least seven times before. With its passage, this won’t be a distraction for anyone in the future.”
Posey previously introduced the legislation in 2009, when Democrats held the House, but it could have a better chance of moving forward now that Rep. John Boehner (R-Ohio) is Speaker.
More here
“It’s the right thing to do and it’s long overdue,” Rep. Bill Posey (R-Fla.), the bill’s sponsor, wrote in an email to The Hill.
Posey insisted the legislation is not directed at President Obama, who has battled charges that he was not born in the U.S. and is ineligible to serve as president since before he entered the Oval Office.
“This legislation has never been about one candidate,” Posey wrote. “It’s been about addressing something that’s come up at least seven times before. With its passage, this won’t be a distraction for anyone in the future.”
Posey previously introduced the legislation in 2009, when Democrats held the House, but it could have a better chance of moving forward now that Rep. John Boehner (R-Ohio) is Speaker.
More here
Saudi Arabia 'Not Comfortable' With Oil Prices
Saudi Arabia has expressed concern over the high price of crude oil.
A senior Saudi energy official said high oil prices could harm the global economy. He said the market contained sufficient supplies of crude oil and that Saudi Arabia did not need to sustain output.
"We are not comfortable with oil prices where they are today," Saudi Aramco Chief Executive Khalid Al Falih said. "I am concerned about the impact it could have on the global economy."
In an address to an oil conference in South Korea on April 27, Al Falih said Saudi crude oil production capacity was stabilizing the market amid the halt in Libyan supplies. He said two-thirds of Saudi exports went to Asia, particularly China.
World Tribune
A senior Saudi energy official said high oil prices could harm the global economy. He said the market contained sufficient supplies of crude oil and that Saudi Arabia did not need to sustain output.
"We are not comfortable with oil prices where they are today," Saudi Aramco Chief Executive Khalid Al Falih said. "I am concerned about the impact it could have on the global economy."
In an address to an oil conference in South Korea on April 27, Al Falih said Saudi crude oil production capacity was stabilizing the market amid the halt in Libyan supplies. He said two-thirds of Saudi exports went to Asia, particularly China.
World Tribune
HB 839
To: County Council Members , Mr Albero & Other Interested Persons
The below Senate Bill 839 is waiting to be approved by our Govenor. The information shows you what our County would be able to do to help protect illegal use of the Mills . This bill states it would also enable our County to enforce more stringent licensing requirements!
Interested parties ----Please contact our Governor asking him to pass the bill !
A very Special Thank You to Mr.Conway for voting for the bill!
Thank you for taking the time to share your concerns about legislation that was being considered by the Maryland General Assembly.
Senate Bill 839, entitled Counties - Kennel Licenses - Requirements for Breeders, passed the Senate and the House and has been sent to the Governor for his approval. The legislation requires a person to obtain a kennel license if the person owns or has custody of 15 or more unsprayed female dogs over six months old that are kept for the purpose of breeding the dogs and selling their offspring and the person sells dogs from six or more litters in a year.
For each kennel license issued in a county, the bill requires the county to collect and maintain a record of the name and address of the licensee, the number of dogs maintained, and the number of puppies sold in the preceding year. By January 15 of each year, counties must report the information collected for the preceding year to the Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation. The bill also authorizes a county to establish additional kennel license fees to cover the cost of collecting and maintaining the information and submitting the reports. A county may establish more stringent kennel licensing requirements.
This is a link to the bill's history: http://mlis.state.md.us/2011rs/sb0839.htm Scroll down to Documents and you can access the bill, the fiscal note and vote tallies. I did vote for the bill when it reached me on the House floor.
Again, thanks for writing.
Norman H. Conway
-----Original Message-----
From: The Humane Society of the United States [mailto:humanesociety@hsus.org?] On Behalf Of Edna Walls
Sent: Monday, March 14, 2011 1:47 PM
To: Conway, Norman Delegate
Subject: Support SB 839/HB 940: Determine the scope of the puppy mill problem in MD
Mar 14, 2011
Delegate Norman Conway
Lowe House Office Building, Room 121
6 Bladen Street
Annapolis, MD 21401-1912
Dear Delegate Conway,
As your constituent, I urge you to support S.B. 839/H.B. 940 to require
large-scale commercial dog breeding facilities to be licensed by the
counties -- and to require the counties to report that information
annually to the state. Most counties already license breeding kennels,
so this legislation should not be a significant burden for them.
While most states have statewide licensing and inspection systems in
place for commercial dog breeding facilities, Maryland does not; it is
impossible to know how big of a problem puppy mills are in the state.
This legislation, sponsored by Sen. Lisa Gladden and Del. Tom Hucker,
is a critical first step
Puppy mills are large-scale commercial dog breeding operations that
mass-produce puppies for sale in pet stores and over the Internet. A
recent house fire in Calvert County on a property that reportedly
housed more than 100 animals indicates that such facilities exist in
Maryland. Unfortunately, it's hard to know the scope of the situation
since there is no statewide tracking of this information. Maryland has
been very lax in protecting helpless animals & it is time this
changes!
The reporting requirement of this legislation is critical in
determining how much of a problem puppy mills are in Maryland. With
this information, we can begin to consider the best way to address the
situation.
Please vote YES on S.B. 839/H.B. 940 when it comes before you for your
consideration. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Edna Walls
410 S Kaywood Dr
Salisbury, MD 21804-8601
Fruitland Police Department Press Release
DATE & TIME: April 28, 2011 @ 3:34 p.m.
INCIDENT: Possession of CDS w/intent to Distribute
LOCATION: West Cedar Lane & RT 13 South.
Fruitland, Maryland
CASE NO.: 2011-555
PERSON CHARGED: JONATHAN PHILIP MONROE
AGE: 39
ADDRESS: Grays Corner Road, Berlin, Maryland
CHARGES: Possession w/intent to Distribute Crack Cocaine
Possession w/ intent to Distribute Powder Cocaine
Possession w/intent to Distribute Marijuana
Possession w/intent to Distribute Ecstacy / MDMA
Possession Distribution Paraphernalia
Possession Crack Cocaine
Possession Powder Cocaine
Possession Marijuana
Possession Ecstacy / MDMA
Paraphernalia 8 counts
Traffic offenses
DISPOSITION: Remanded to custody of Central Booking, WCDC
Resume:
A traffic stop conducted by Fruitland officers revealed the vehicle operated by the above named subject to be unregistered and uninsured. In addition the subject’s driving privilege was found to be suspended. Subsequent inquiry revealed the subject to be in possession of Crack and Powder Cocaine, Marijuana and Ecstacy in sufficient quantity for distrubution as well as paraphernalia used in the processing and distrubution of Controlled Dangerous Substances.
GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY HOSTS DISCUSSION ON TRANSPORTATION TRUST FUND IN MARYLAND
Brings together Blue Ribbon Commission on Maryland Transportation Funding, business leaders, elected officials and stakeholders to discuss the future of transportation funding in Maryland
COLUMBIA, MD (April 29, 2011)– Governor Martin O’Malley today hosted a roundtable discussion on the Transportation Trust Fund in Maryland, the latest in his series of “Maryland Forward” policy forums. Today’s discussion was held at the Wilde Lake Community Center in Columbia, Maryland. Following the presentation of the Interim Report of the Blue Ribbon Commission on Maryland Transportation Funding, Governor O’Malley facilitated an open dialogue with more than 100 participants on how to strategically rebuild the state’s infrastructure and protect the Transportation Trust Fund.
“We are all here today because we understand that we are in a fight for our children’s future. The states that win will be those states that succeed in creating jobs and expanding opportunity by innovating, educating, rebuilding, and protecting their quality of life,” said Governor O’Malley. “There is an inextricable connection between infrastructure and jobs – it all depends on building and restoring a 21st century infrastructure so we can compete and win in the new economy.”
The Governor kicked off the panel discussion with Howard County Executive Ken Ulman and other members of the Blue Ribbon Commission, local business leaders and elected officials.
“I’m pleased that Governor O’Malley has decided to come to Howard County to begin a much-needed discussion on transportation solutions,” said Howard County Executive Ken Ulman. “I’ve often said that Howard is where Maryland comes together, and that means we see first-hand how highways, transit and other modes of transportation work, and what the state’s needs are.”
The Transportation Trust Fund was created in 1971 as a dedicated fund to support transportation funding in the State. The Fund supports all activities of the Maryland Department of Transportation, including debt service expenses, modal agency operations, and capital projects. Revenues deposited into the Trust Fund are not earmarked for specific programs, and the disbursement of funds to projects and initiatives is made in consultation with state and local elected officials.
“Maryland’s highly-regarded transportation network is the lifeblood of the State, directly affecting every citizen and the essential viability of our economy,” said Blue Ribbon Commission Chair Gus Bauman. “In the highly competitive economic environment that we inhabit, other States and regions will not stand still. We must keep focused on this issue and re-establish the public trust in the Trust Fund.”
The Blue Ribbon Commission on Transportation Funding, initiated in 2010 by the Maryland General Assembly, was established to address funding challenges. The Commission is required to review, evaluate, and make recommendations concerning:
· Current State funding sources and structure of the Maryland Transportation Trust Fund;
· Short– and long–term transit, highway, and pedestrian and bicycle facility construction and maintenance funding needs;
· Options for public–private partnerships, including partnerships with local governments, to meet transportation funding needs;
· Structure of regional transportation authorities and the ability of these authorities to meet transportation needs in various regions of the State;
· Impact of economic development and smart growth on transportation funding; and
· Options for sustainable, long–term revenue sources for transportation.
“To meet the challenge of funding Maryland’s transportation needs it is important to seek the input and ideas of stakeholders in both the public and private sectors,” said Transportation Secretary Beverley K. Swaim-Staley. “The Governor’s forum on transportation funding provides a unique platform for a free exchange of ideas as we work together to chart a course for funding transportation in our State.”
The O’Malley-Brown Administration has taken steps to begin resolving the funding issues. This year’s legislative action provides for repayment of nearly $100 million a year in funding to the Trust Fund by fiscal year 2014. During the 2007 Special Session, the Administration took action to address issues affecting transportation funding. The Maryland Department of Transportation was allocated additional revenues in the amount of $450 million per year; the sales tax was increased from 5 to 6 percent; the titling tax was raised to 6 percent; and several Trust Fund transfers were shifted to the General Fund. As a result of these actions and due to the additional revenues expected from these changes, the Department of Transportation added a total of $450 million per year of new capital projects. However, the full impact of the national economic downturn took hold shortly thereafter. The Department was forced to reduce its capital budget by $2.1 billion. While the additional $450 million in revenue did cushion the damage, the severity of the downturn prohibited the State from making the progress expected.
The Administration continues to demonstrate a commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing Maryland’s infrastructure. The first segment of the Intercounty Connector from I-370 to MD 97 (Georgia Avenue) opened in February, and the remaining segments from MD 97 to I-95 are under construction and should be complete late 2011/early 2012 – supporting thousands of jobs in Montgomery and Prince George’s County. The Administration is also working to construct the Red and Purple Lines, has invested $21 million in the Halethorpe MARC station improvement project, and continues to compete for federal funding to bring high-speed rail to Maryland among many efforts to rebuild and restore the state’s infrastructure.
Prior to his inauguration for a second term, Governor O’Malley convened a series of five “Maryland Forward” forums designed to gather the input of various stakeholders, including recommendations for legislative in areas including jobs and the economy; skills and education; sustainability; children and health; and public safety and security. These day-long summits brought together stakeholders to generate concrete actions and recommendations that support the Administration’s strategic goals. Following that series, Governor O’Malley has convened smaller groups of local stakeholders, including today’s discussion, which focused on specific policy areas that will help Maryland be a winner in the new economy, protect our neighborhoods, and create jobs.
HISTORICAL COMMENTS BY GEORGE CHEVALLIER
Shoes
Something we all take for granted these days are shoes. This has all come about during the last 60 years or so. Women have always had a lot of shoes to go with different outfits. Most of the shoes for men consisted of a good solid pair of dress shoes; maybe some work shoes and possibly a pair of athletic shoes. There are very few men who polish their shoes nowadays. This was a habit I picked up when I was away at high school. I still wouldn’t be caught without a nice shine on my shoes.
People got more life out of their shoes years ago, thanks to your friendly shoe arcade. They would put on new heels and soles, either whole or half soles. A good pair of shoes would last a long time with the proper care. And once a good pair of shoes was broken in, there was nothing any more comfortable. For a time in the 1950’s and ‘60’s, some people put metal taps on the heels. There were even toe taps that could be used to make a distinctive sound along with the heel taps; you don’t see any of this anymore,
When I was growing up, the boys had two choices for shoes. Either “penny” loafers or “Chucks” were the order of the day. By “Chucks”, I mean the model of Converse All-Star that was endorsed by Chuck Taylor. They were predominately black with white trim around the sole. Any tennis shoe that was black with white trim but were not Chucks were referred to as “fish heads”. I think they still make Chucks today in many colors. I had a pair that I wore smooth playing basketball on our chip and tar driveway. I remember taking them to my grandfather’s workshop and putting them in a vice. I then proceeded to use one of his saws to put new tread on them. They worked great. This seems like a lot of trouble to extend the life of a pair of $3.98 sneakers, but that is the way things were done in the 1950’s. There was a period in the 1950’s that “white bucks” were all the rage. I remember that whenever someone showed up at school with a new pair, it was the obligation of every other boy to step on the new shoes.
Now, everybody wears athletic shoes, primarily for the comfort. When my oldest son was just beginning to walk, we bought a pair of white, high top leather shoes. The leather soles on them would become slicker than glass after a short time. I would take them to the basement and rough up the soles again. This never lasted too long. Then a sales girl at the Athlete in the old Mall told me that the high top shoes were bad for the development of his ankles. Also, she had a son a little bit older than mine and said she got him a very small pair of Nikes. I did the same and he ran everywhere, without once slipping.
Yes, we have come a long way from home-made school clothes. In those days the only thing purchased at a store was shoes and many a child had to work in the canning factories to get their shoe money. Now, parents think nothing of spending $100 on new shoes for their children.
GOVERNOR O’MALLEY TO PARTICIPATE IN RIBBON CUTTING FOR AVIATION MAINTENANCE TECHNOLOGY SCHOOL AT HAGERSTOWN REGIONAL AIRPORT
ANNAPOLIS, MD (April 29, 2011) – Governor O’Malley will travel to Hagerstown tomorrow morning aboard a Cape Air regional flight from BWI-Marshall Airport to participate in the opening of the Aviation Maintenance Technology School. The school, operated and administered by the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, trains students to become entry level aircraft technicians. Graduates of the AMT program are eligible to sit for the FAA’s Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification examinations. The program for aviation mechanics will develop a skilled workforce to fill high-paying aviation maintenance positions and allow Hagerstown Regional Airport to expand services. The opening of the school is supported through the Skills2Compete initiative.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Fun Friday at the Salisbury Festival
It appeared to be fun for the whole family Friday evening at this year’s Salisbury Festival. From the rides of the Midway to the block party across the river, folks from Salisbury and beyond seemed to be enjoying themselves.
More pictures to follow.
Sailboat Flips Over, Body Missing
The Cactus Club In Salisbury To Close Their Doors For Good, TONIGHT
The Cactus Club in north Salisbury will be closing their doors for good tonight. They did not renew their liquor license and we will see yet another business close their doors for good. While some might see this as a good thing, no matter what is said, the economy is taking its toll on the shore as times just continue to get tougher.
I know, lets give the Daily Times ANOTHER $400,000.00 CITY tax cut while they too go from 200 employees down to 15, move their printing to Wilmington, DE. and depress the local economy. That number does NOT include the tax breaks they got from the County as well.
Thanks Louise, Gary and Shanie. More importantly, thanks Paul Wilber for not speaking the TRUTH at the City Council Meeting 11 days ago. Wilber stated the tax break was mandatory and that is NOT the truth.
I know, lets give the Daily Times ANOTHER $400,000.00 CITY tax cut while they too go from 200 employees down to 15, move their printing to Wilmington, DE. and depress the local economy. That number does NOT include the tax breaks they got from the County as well.
Thanks Louise, Gary and Shanie. More importantly, thanks Paul Wilber for not speaking the TRUTH at the City Council Meeting 11 days ago. Wilber stated the tax break was mandatory and that is NOT the truth.
Prom Promise 2011
Downtown Salisbury Gets Face Lift Today
Salisbury Festival
Don’t Miss the fun this WEEKEND!
Friday, April 29th (1 PM – 11 PM)
Saturday, April 30th (10 AM – 10 PM)
Sunday, (12 Noon – 5 PM)
Admission is FREE!
Free Parking in the Downtown Parking Garage all weekend!
Fernando Guerrero Has A New Fight Televised On ESPN
Hello Everyone,
Prizefight Promotions, Team Guerrero and our great sponsors Pohanka Automotive group and Yard Designs Inc. are pleased to announce that Fernando Guerrero 21-0 will fight on June 17th in Austin TX. The bout will be a 10 round main event televised live on ESPN Friday Night Fights. Guerrero will face Michael "Murder Man" Medina 24-3-2 from Montery Nuevo Leon, Mexico. This will Guerrero's first fight in TX and is looking forward to the test.
Guerrero is coming of a dominating win over Derrick Findley in an ESPN fight that was held here in Salsibury at the Wicomico Civic Center.
"Medina is one of those very busy fighters, he comes at you and throws a lot of punches. When he fought John Duddy he made a good fighter look bad and caught him with a lot of shots. Duddy eeked out the win, but it did not help in making Duddy look like the prospect so many feel he is.
Certainly we can not afford a loss, that's for sure, but we also can no afford anything other than a great performance. Boxing has to be one of the most unforgiving sports." said Guerrero's manager, Hal Chennoff. "Recently there have been a lot of major upsets in boxing. It seems like the guys climbing the ladders finally understands how hungry you have to be and what happens when you lose. So many people were very high on James Kirkland and Middleweight David Lemieux of Canada, yet both were stopped by guys they were expected to beat. Andre Berto lost his world championship to Victor Ortiz and there are more.
We are getting very close to a world title bid, but you can not look past the guy you face next. That's the biggest fight, the most important fight, so that's how you prepare for it. There is a reason Medina is 24-3-2. That means he has his eyes set on the same things we do. He's hungry and we're hungry, so I expect a great fight. ESPN also likes the matchup or they would not apporve.
With the help of Yard Designs Inc and Pohanka Automotive Group of Salisbury, Clear Channel Outdoor will be putting up a couple billboards to announce the fight and remind them when it is, and where they can watch it.
Wicomico County Sheriff's Department Press Release
Incident: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 27 April 2011
Location: Ocean Gateway at Naylor Mill Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: 1. Montgomery T. McCastle, 30, Quantico, MD
2. Ramon N. Soto, 24, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 27 April 2011 at 11:51 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle for displaying an expired registration tag. Upon approach to the vehicle, the deputy made contact with the driver, Montgomery McCastle, and passenger, Ramon Soto. During the encounter, the deputy was standing on the passenger side of the vehicle and observed that Soto appeared extremely nervous because of the deputy’s presence. The deputy also thought it was odd that the passenger stared straight ahead while refusing to look at him. During a subsequent conversation with McCastle, he made incriminating statements that led the deputy to believe there were drugs hidden in the vehicle. Upon a search of the vehicle, the deputy located a baggie of what the deputy recognized as marijuana in the glove box. The deputy opened up a box of KFC Fried Chicken that the passenger had been holding and found two packages of rolling papers inside with the fresh and hot chicken.
Also during a later search, Soto was discovered to be hiding more marijuana in his crotch.
Both subjects were placed under arrest and transported to the Central Booking Unit where they were processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After their initial appearances, both were released on Personal Recognizance.
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Incident: Theft Investigation
Date of Incident: 27 April 2011
Location: 7000 block of Maple Street, Pittsville, MD
Suspects: Pending
Narrative: On 27 April 2011 at 4:59 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to investigate a reported theft in the 7000 block of Maple Street in Pittsville. Upon arrival, the deputy met with the resident who told the deputy that he returned home from work to discover his Xbox gaming system missing from the residence. The victim in this case had not given anyone permission to take the system and a suspect has been identified in this case. The investigation is continuing.
Anyone who has information about this crime is asked to contact either the Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4891 or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776. Reference case 11-1650
Incident: Burglary Investigation
Date of Incident: 27 April 2011
Location: 1200 block of Flamingo Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Pending
Narrative: On 27 April 2011 at 4:43 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to investigate an attempted residential burglary in the 1200 block of Flamingo Drive. Upon arrival, the deputy met with the resident who stated she returned home to discover the screen on one of the windows had been cut and there were obvious pry marks on the same window.
Believing that someone attempted to burglarize the residence; the deputy began investigating the crime and has spoken with neighbors in an attempt to identify possible suspects.
Anyone who has information about this crime is asked to contact either the Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4891 or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776. Reference case 11-1648
Incident: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Date of Incident: 28 April 2011
Location: Forest Grove Road, Parsonsburg, MD
Suspects: Fitzroy Emanuel Padmore
Narrative: On 28 April 2011 at 3:20 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a vehicle that had left the roadway on Forest Grove Road in Parsonsburg. Upon arrival, the deputy made contact with the operator of the vehicle, Fitzroy Padmore and some friends who were in the process of pulling the vehicle back out onto the road. Fitzroy told the deputy that he had swerved to avoid a deer in the roadway. While speaking with the driver, the deputy detected a strong odor of alcohol emanating from him. The deputy began to investigate whether Padmore had been operating his vehicle while under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. After the administration of Field Sobriety testing, the deputy concluded that was in fact the case and placed Padmore under arrest for DUI.
The deputy transported Padmore to the Maryland State Police barrack for a breath test, following that Padmore was processed and released upon signing citations.
Charges: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Incident: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Date of Incident: 28 April 2011
Location: College Avenue at Roger Street, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Jamal NMN Lewis, 21, Dover, DE
Narrative: On 28 April 2011 at 1:59 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle operated by Jamal Lewis for driving erratically in the area of College Avenue. Upon stopping the vehicle and making contact with Lewis, the deputy detected a strong odor of alcohol emanating from within the passenger compartment of Lewis’ vehicle/ Lewis, who was alone, exited his vehicle in order for the deputy to gauge Lewis’ level of sobriety. After a battery of field sobriety testing, the deputy placed Lewis under arrest for DUI.
The deputy transported Lewis to the Maryland State Police barrack for a breath test, following that Lewis was processed and released upon signing citations.
Charges: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Date of Incident: 27 April 2011
Location: Ocean Gateway at Naylor Mill Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: 1. Montgomery T. McCastle, 30, Quantico, MD
2. Ramon N. Soto, 24, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 27 April 2011 at 11:51 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle for displaying an expired registration tag. Upon approach to the vehicle, the deputy made contact with the driver, Montgomery McCastle, and passenger, Ramon Soto. During the encounter, the deputy was standing on the passenger side of the vehicle and observed that Soto appeared extremely nervous because of the deputy’s presence. The deputy also thought it was odd that the passenger stared straight ahead while refusing to look at him. During a subsequent conversation with McCastle, he made incriminating statements that led the deputy to believe there were drugs hidden in the vehicle. Upon a search of the vehicle, the deputy located a baggie of what the deputy recognized as marijuana in the glove box. The deputy opened up a box of KFC Fried Chicken that the passenger had been holding and found two packages of rolling papers inside with the fresh and hot chicken.
Also during a later search, Soto was discovered to be hiding more marijuana in his crotch.
Both subjects were placed under arrest and transported to the Central Booking Unit where they were processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After their initial appearances, both were released on Personal Recognizance.
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Incident: Theft Investigation
Date of Incident: 27 April 2011
Location: 7000 block of Maple Street, Pittsville, MD
Suspects: Pending
Narrative: On 27 April 2011 at 4:59 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to investigate a reported theft in the 7000 block of Maple Street in Pittsville. Upon arrival, the deputy met with the resident who told the deputy that he returned home from work to discover his Xbox gaming system missing from the residence. The victim in this case had not given anyone permission to take the system and a suspect has been identified in this case. The investigation is continuing.
Anyone who has information about this crime is asked to contact either the Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4891 or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776. Reference case 11-1650
Incident: Burglary Investigation
Date of Incident: 27 April 2011
Location: 1200 block of Flamingo Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Pending
Narrative: On 27 April 2011 at 4:43 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to investigate an attempted residential burglary in the 1200 block of Flamingo Drive. Upon arrival, the deputy met with the resident who stated she returned home to discover the screen on one of the windows had been cut and there were obvious pry marks on the same window.
Believing that someone attempted to burglarize the residence; the deputy began investigating the crime and has spoken with neighbors in an attempt to identify possible suspects.
Anyone who has information about this crime is asked to contact either the Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4891 or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776. Reference case 11-1648
Incident: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Date of Incident: 28 April 2011
Location: Forest Grove Road, Parsonsburg, MD
Suspects: Fitzroy Emanuel Padmore
Narrative: On 28 April 2011 at 3:20 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a vehicle that had left the roadway on Forest Grove Road in Parsonsburg. Upon arrival, the deputy made contact with the operator of the vehicle, Fitzroy Padmore and some friends who were in the process of pulling the vehicle back out onto the road. Fitzroy told the deputy that he had swerved to avoid a deer in the roadway. While speaking with the driver, the deputy detected a strong odor of alcohol emanating from him. The deputy began to investigate whether Padmore had been operating his vehicle while under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. After the administration of Field Sobriety testing, the deputy concluded that was in fact the case and placed Padmore under arrest for DUI.
The deputy transported Padmore to the Maryland State Police barrack for a breath test, following that Padmore was processed and released upon signing citations.
Charges: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Incident: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Date of Incident: 28 April 2011
Location: College Avenue at Roger Street, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Jamal NMN Lewis, 21, Dover, DE
Narrative: On 28 April 2011 at 1:59 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle operated by Jamal Lewis for driving erratically in the area of College Avenue. Upon stopping the vehicle and making contact with Lewis, the deputy detected a strong odor of alcohol emanating from within the passenger compartment of Lewis’ vehicle/ Lewis, who was alone, exited his vehicle in order for the deputy to gauge Lewis’ level of sobriety. After a battery of field sobriety testing, the deputy placed Lewis under arrest for DUI.
The deputy transported Lewis to the Maryland State Police barrack for a breath test, following that Lewis was processed and released upon signing citations.
Charges: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
DP&L Rebates To City
Mayor James Ireton, Jr. is pleased to announce the City received $59,235 in rebates from Delmarva Power and Light through the Commercial and Industrial Energy Savings Program. This rebate offsets the costs of improvements made to the Paleo Water Treatment Plant as part of the Salisbury Potable Water Storage Tank project. During this project, the City installed two new pumps with energy efficient motors, seven variable frequency drives to control the motors of the distribution pumps and two well pumps in the Paleo Well 2, and a new HVAC system. The rebate will be deposited into the Water/Sewer Fund.
Salisbury Police Department Press Releases
On April 28, 2011 at approximately 9:36 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Barb’s Hallmark Store on South Salisbury Boulevard for the report of a robbery. Upon arrival the officers met with employees who advised that a lone suspect had attempted to rob the store. Victims advised that a lone suspect had entered the store and approached the counter. The suspect told the employee that he was armed and demanded U.S. Currency. The employee alerted a witness, which resulted in the suspect leaving the business without receiving any property. There was no weapon displayed by the suspect, and there were no injuries. Responding officers received suspect information from an employee of the Super Giant and responded to a residence on Roger Street to search for the suspect. Upon arrival the officers located the suspect, who was positively identified by the witnesses and taken into custody. A search of the suspect, incident to arrest, revealed a quantity of suspected heroin and paraphernalia containing suspected heroin residue.
ARRESTED: Kenneth Wade Baden, 26 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Attempted armed robbery
Possession of heroin
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia (2 counts)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100016140
On April 28, 2011 at approximately 10:21 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Safe Streets Team executed a search and seizure warrant at a residence on the four hundred (400) block of Pinehurst Avenue for a controlled dangerous substance investigation. During the execution of the warrant, the below listed suspects were located in the residence. A search of the residence resulted in the seizure of quantities of suspected marijuana and smoking devices containing suspected marijuana. Also located during the search was equipment used to process suspected marijuana for consumption and sale.
ARRESTED #1: , 22 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #2: Eric Eugene Christenson, 24 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #3: Colin Travis Campbell, 21 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #4: Adam McDonald Clarke, 22 years of age Ashton, Maryland
CHARGES (All):
Possession of marijuana
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
DISPOSITION: All suspects released to Central Booking CC # 201100016140
On April 28, 2011 at approximately 4:40 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police were on routine patrol in the area of Booth Street and conducted a traffic stop on the below listed suspect who was riding a motor scooter. A routine records check of the scooter revealed that the scooter had been reported stolen on April 6, 2010 from a parking lot at University Terrace.
ARRESTED : Anthony Shane Vinson, 23 years of age Hebron, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 1,000)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201000013636
On April 28, 2011 at approximately 4:37 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police were on routine patrol in the area of Delaware Avenue and conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by below listed suspect # 1 for traffic violations. A routine records check of the operator revealed that he was driving on a suspended and revoked driving privilege. Contact with suspect # 2, the front passenger, resulted in the officer requesting a K-9 to scan the vehicle for possible controlled dangerous substance violations. During the K-9 search, suspect # 2 fled on foot from the vehicle stop. After a foot chase, the suspect was taken into custody. A search of suspect # 2 was conducted and resulted in the recovery of a quantity of suspected cocaine and several smoking devices, each containing suspected cocaine.
ARRESTED #1: Wallace Vincent Carnegie, 58 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Driving on a suspended license
Driving without a license
DISPOSITION: Released on signature of citation
ARRESTED #2: Janice Louise Oney, 36 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Possession of cocaine
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia (8 counts)
Obstructing and hindering an investigation
Resisting arrest
Failure to comply with a lawful order
Disorderly conduct
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100016027
ARRESTED: Kenneth Wade Baden, 26 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Attempted armed robbery
Possession of heroin
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia (2 counts)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100016140
On April 28, 2011 at approximately 10:21 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Safe Streets Team executed a search and seizure warrant at a residence on the four hundred (400) block of Pinehurst Avenue for a controlled dangerous substance investigation. During the execution of the warrant, the below listed suspects were located in the residence. A search of the residence resulted in the seizure of quantities of suspected marijuana and smoking devices containing suspected marijuana. Also located during the search was equipment used to process suspected marijuana for consumption and sale.
ARRESTED #1: , 22 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #2: Eric Eugene Christenson, 24 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #3: Colin Travis Campbell, 21 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #4: Adam McDonald Clarke, 22 years of age Ashton, Maryland
CHARGES (All):
Possession of marijuana
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
DISPOSITION: All suspects released to Central Booking CC # 201100016140
On April 28, 2011 at approximately 4:40 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police were on routine patrol in the area of Booth Street and conducted a traffic stop on the below listed suspect who was riding a motor scooter. A routine records check of the scooter revealed that the scooter had been reported stolen on April 6, 2010 from a parking lot at University Terrace.
ARRESTED : Anthony Shane Vinson, 23 years of age Hebron, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 1,000)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201000013636
On April 28, 2011 at approximately 4:37 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police were on routine patrol in the area of Delaware Avenue and conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by below listed suspect # 1 for traffic violations. A routine records check of the operator revealed that he was driving on a suspended and revoked driving privilege. Contact with suspect # 2, the front passenger, resulted in the officer requesting a K-9 to scan the vehicle for possible controlled dangerous substance violations. During the K-9 search, suspect # 2 fled on foot from the vehicle stop. After a foot chase, the suspect was taken into custody. A search of suspect # 2 was conducted and resulted in the recovery of a quantity of suspected cocaine and several smoking devices, each containing suspected cocaine.
ARRESTED #1: Wallace Vincent Carnegie, 58 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Driving on a suspended license
Driving without a license
DISPOSITION: Released on signature of citation
ARRESTED #2: Janice Louise Oney, 36 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Possession of cocaine
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia (8 counts)
Obstructing and hindering an investigation
Resisting arrest
Failure to comply with a lawful order
Disorderly conduct
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100016027
Kayaks And Canoes Open Salisbury Festival!
Mayor James Ireton, Jr. will lead a kayak and canoe expedition on the East Prong of the Wicomico River beginning at 4:45 p.m. today, May 29, 2011. The expedition will study the East Prong of the river including existing storm drains, bulk heading, and soil erosion. A report will be given to the Wicomico River Project. The expedition will end at the Salisbury Festival opening ceremony at 6:00 p.m. with the ribbon cutting at 6:30 p.m.
Mayor Ireton, State’s Attorney Matt Maciarello, Deputy State’s Attorney Ella Disharoon, Safe Streets Prosecutor Rich Brueckner, local business owners and environmental groups are slated to participate.
Please be sure to come out and enjoy the festivities all weekend. Check out:
http://www.salisburyfestival.com/ScheduleofEvents.aspx for the schedule of events.
Mayor Ireton, State’s Attorney Matt Maciarello, Deputy State’s Attorney Ella Disharoon, Safe Streets Prosecutor Rich Brueckner, local business owners and environmental groups are slated to participate.
Please be sure to come out and enjoy the festivities all weekend. Check out:
http://www.salisburyfestival.com/ScheduleofEvents.aspx for the schedule of events.
Some Blacks See Racism In 'Birther' Questions
'It's partly American tradition of paranoia, and partly just plain old racism,' says one professor
WASHINGTON — Shortly after President Barack Obama declared himself an American-born citizen with papers to prove it, Baratunde Thurston declared himself a disgusted black man.
"I find it hard to summarize in mere words the amount of pain and rage this incident has caused," Thurston said.
"This" would be the nation's first black president standing in the White House, blue power suit and all, going on TV to debunk, in more detail than before, the persistent, he-ain't-really-an-American rumors fanned anew by Donald Trump, the developer and might-be presidential candidate.
Obama's Victimhood Rests On False Claims About Bush Tax Cuts
| When President Obama unveiled his newest debt reduction plan at The George Washington University, he said once again that George W. Bush’s tax cuts were to blame for the fiscal mess he’s in. In a speech that sounded more like the kickoff to his reelection campaign than a plan to cut deficit spending, Obama could not resist blaming Bush and the Republicans for all of the economic and fiscal woes that still afflict his presidency, a tactic that worked for him in his 2008 campaign but is growing threadbare and tiresome in his third year in the Oval Office “We increased spending dramatically for two wars and an expensive prescription drug program—but we didn’t pay for any of this new spending. Instead we made the problem worse with trillions of dollars in unpaid-for tax cuts,” he said. In “the last decade, if we had simply found a way to pay for the tax cuts and the prescription drug benefit, our deficit would currently be at low historical levels in the coming years,” Obama said. Whenever Obama talks about paying for tax cuts, he means, but does not say, raising taxes on someone else. It never occurs to him, nor does he say, that the tax cuts can pay for themselves through increased economic growth and higher employment. That is exactly what President Bush’s 2003 accelerated tax cuts did in the remaining years of his presidency, a five-year period when the unemployment rate fell well below 6%, and tax revenues rose by hundreds of billions of dollars, cutting the budget deficit in half, according to government revenue and budget deficit statistics. When Bush was running for office in 2000, the economy was in the midst of a high-tech, dot-com economic boom, until the bubble burst in 2001 and the economy fell into recession. In his first year in office, Bush pushed through an across-the-board income tax cut agenda that would be phased in over several years. But as the recession worsened, unemployment—then at a low 4.7%—rose to 5.8% in 2002 and 6% in 2003. Federal tax receipts, which had hit a high of $2 trillion in 2000, fell to $1.99 trillion in 2001, to $1.85 trillion in 2002, and then to $1.78 trillion in 2003. Deciding that the economy needed a faster booster shot, Bush and Congress accelerated the Bush tax cuts in 2003, and the nation’s economy responded. Contrary to Obama’s anti-tax cut, zero-sum ideology, federal tax revenues didn’t fall as a result of Bush’s across-the-board tax rate cuts that affected every income bracket—including a new, lower 10% tax rate for low-income workers—they rose to the following: —$1.88 trillion in 2004 —$ 2.15 trillion in 2005 —$ 2.4 trillion in 2006 —$ 2.6 trillion in 2007. In other words, tax revenues rose by more than $800 billion in just four years by cutting tax rates and boosting economic growth that pushed the Dow to a record 14,164 points on Oct. 9, 2007. Meantime, unemployment fell sharply as the economy expanded, dropping to 5.55 in 2004, 5.1% in 2005, and 4.6% in 2006 and 2007. This also helped reduce Bush’s soaring budget deficits. They rose substantially during the first half of his presidency as a result of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the deepening recession, but as federal tax revenues increased, the yearly deficits began to shrink, falling to a modest $161 in 2007—a record that Obama can only dream about. More |
Home Sweet Home
NetFlix Has More Subscribers Than Comcast
The Rubicon has been crossed. Netflix now has more people subscribed to it than Comcast. Netflix reported 23.6 million subscribers at the end of the 2011 first quarter, while Comcast ended 2010 with 22.8 million. (They could still possibly report more but considering that they've been dropping the past few quarters, it's unlikely). See, we don't need to worry about hegemony or legal monopolies, they'll just obsolete themselves out of business.
from The Consumerist
Do It, OR?
The government is pressuring food companies to cut back on marketing unhealthy foods to children. The voluntary guidelines would phase out advertisements on TV, in stores, and online. Companies are urged to market foods to children ages 2 through 17, but only if those foods are low in fats, sugars, and sodium and contain healthy ingredients. In 2009, Congress directed the Federal Trade Commission, Agriculture Department, Food and Drug Administration and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to form a working group and develop the recommendations.
Man Beheads Girlfriend In Front Of Classmates At Indian University
RANCHI, India -- An engineering student was in police custody Thursday after allegedly slicing his girlfriend's head off with a ceremonial dagger in front of her classmates at an Indian university.
Bijendra Kumar, 23, a diploma student at St. Xavier's College in Ranchi, in eastern India, allegedly beheaded his 18-year-old girlfriend, Khushbu, with a blade known as a "khukri" as she left the classroom with her friends.
The Hindustan Times reported that Kumar was overpowered by students and security guards, beaten and then arrested by police after the attack Wednesday.
Airline Actually Reduced A Fee
Airlines have tacked on more and more fees over the years as a way to recoup costs without having to raise their base fares as much, but Frontier has broke with these seemingly relentless upward tradition and actually reduced some fees this week. Thunderclap!
Frontier is cutting the fee for changing an economy from $100 to $50. Also, travelers paying online will pay $15 for checked bags instead of $20. And the $75 flat fee for bike transport is gone. Instead, bikes will be charged the same fees as luggage.
Why would they do this? Airfarewatchdog's George Hobica told Consumerist, "Frontier is probably responding to competition from Southwest, which doesn't charge for change fees at all, and allows passengers to check two bags for free."
That's a nice use of competition, because until now I thought airlines were in a race to see who could have the most and highest fees.
from The Consumerist
Trump: 'Our Leaders Are ... Stupid People'
When told he should run for White House, tycoon says 'I think I am going to make you very happy'
LAS VEGAS — Real estate developer Donald Trump unleashed a tirade of profanity in a speech at a boisterous Las Vegas casino as he assured a crowd of adoring supporters Thursday night that he is seriously weighing a presidential run and will make a decision soon.
During a 30-minute stump speech focused mostly on foreign affairs, Trump sprinkled in a number of insults directed toward the nation's leaders.
"Our leaders are stupid, they are stupid people," he said. "It's just very, very sad."
Rasmussen: Huckabee Dropping Out Will Help Dark Horse Emerge
Mike Huckabee’s camp has sought to refute a new report that the former Arkansas governor won’t seek the 2012 Republican presidential nomination. This latest report comes on top of assertions by political experts that Huckabee won’t run.
A Huckabee withdrawal could bring a dark horse to the front, says pollster Scott Rasmussen, and leaves the Christian evangelical vote looking for a candidate.
The Process Story blog reported that Huckabee “is giving his former S.C. supporters the nod to seek work on other presidential campaigns. The word is that he’s told South Carolina staffers that they have his blessing for them to peddle their wares elsewhere.
“If this is true as it appears, it’s the second major shakeup. On Monday, Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour surprised everyone but himself when he announced that he would not seek the GOP nod.”
Process Story points out that “Huckabee had a strong effort in South Carolina during the last run, and would have been the favorite to win the primary if he had fully committed to a run.”
Results of the latest Rasmussen Reports nationwide poll, released on Thursday, show Huckabee in third place among potential GOP candidates with 15 percent of the vote. Donald Trump leads the pack with 19 percent, followed by Mitt Romney with 17 percent.
But Scott Rasmussen, founder and president of Rasmussen Reports, tells Newsmax that a Huckabee departure from the race would not likely benefit any of the current leading contenders, and instead might help a dark horse who is yet to emerge.
Read more
A Huckabee withdrawal could bring a dark horse to the front, says pollster Scott Rasmussen, and leaves the Christian evangelical vote looking for a candidate.
The Process Story blog reported that Huckabee “is giving his former S.C. supporters the nod to seek work on other presidential campaigns. The word is that he’s told South Carolina staffers that they have his blessing for them to peddle their wares elsewhere.
“If this is true as it appears, it’s the second major shakeup. On Monday, Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour surprised everyone but himself when he announced that he would not seek the GOP nod.”
Process Story points out that “Huckabee had a strong effort in South Carolina during the last run, and would have been the favorite to win the primary if he had fully committed to a run.”
Results of the latest Rasmussen Reports nationwide poll, released on Thursday, show Huckabee in third place among potential GOP candidates with 15 percent of the vote. Donald Trump leads the pack with 19 percent, followed by Mitt Romney with 17 percent.
But Scott Rasmussen, founder and president of Rasmussen Reports, tells Newsmax that a Huckabee departure from the race would not likely benefit any of the current leading contenders, and instead might help a dark horse who is yet to emerge.
Read more
EPA Proposes Stricter Controls On Wetlands, Streams
Tough new pollution controls will be imposed on thousands of miles of streams and millions of acres of wetlands under a proposal by President Barack Obama’s Environmental Protection Agency. The new rules could make it into federal regulation by the end of the year, The Washington Post reported.
The issue over what streams and wetlands should fall under the Clean Water Act has simmered for a decade. The George W. Bush administration issued rules in 2003 and 2008 to limit the reach of the act and the Supreme Court has weighed in twice, according to the Post.
EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson downplayed the extent of the new rules, saying, “This is not some massive increase, as far as we can tell.” Environmentalists hailed the decision but livestock owners and builders said it will impose an economic burden.
The House GOP included a provision to block the EPA from instituting the rules in their continuing budget resolution this spring but later dropped it, the Post reported.
Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee’s environment subcommittee Rep. Mike Simpson, R-Idaho, expressed disappointment with the EPA.
Read more on Newsmax
The issue over what streams and wetlands should fall under the Clean Water Act has simmered for a decade. The George W. Bush administration issued rules in 2003 and 2008 to limit the reach of the act and the Supreme Court has weighed in twice, according to the Post.
EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson downplayed the extent of the new rules, saying, “This is not some massive increase, as far as we can tell.” Environmentalists hailed the decision but livestock owners and builders said it will impose an economic burden.
The House GOP included a provision to block the EPA from instituting the rules in their continuing budget resolution this spring but later dropped it, the Post reported.
Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee’s environment subcommittee Rep. Mike Simpson, R-Idaho, expressed disappointment with the EPA.
Read more on Newsmax
US: 61% Support Defending Israel
A poll shows that 61percent of Americans support defending Israel if it is attacked – more than those who support defending all but three other countries.
Polls on this topic are carried out by Pulse Opinion Research, LLC, on behalf of Rasmussen Reports. The most recent of these surveys, taken last week, dealt only with nine countries – not including Israel, which was asked about in an earlier survey.
The most recent findings show that Canada, Great Britain and Australia enjoy the greatest support among Americans in terms of willingness to come to their defense. Eighty percent said they would support coming to Canada’s defense, 74% would for Great Britain, and 65% for Australia. Next on the list was Israel, with 61%, as opposed to 26% who said they would oppose supporting Israel if it was attacked.
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Polls on this topic are carried out by Pulse Opinion Research, LLC, on behalf of Rasmussen Reports. The most recent of these surveys, taken last week, dealt only with nine countries – not including Israel, which was asked about in an earlier survey.
The most recent findings show that Canada, Great Britain and Australia enjoy the greatest support among Americans in terms of willingness to come to their defense. Eighty percent said they would support coming to Canada’s defense, 74% would for Great Britain, and 65% for Australia. Next on the list was Israel, with 61%, as opposed to 26% who said they would oppose supporting Israel if it was attacked.
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Stay Tuned For 10:30 AM Post
SURPRISE! SURPRISE!…OBAMA IS A LIFETIME CRIMINAL!…
Obama may [...DOES] have a criminal past…
Trump is correct, Barry Soetoro, AKA Obama is hiding something in his past that is very bad… and it may not be his citizenship. (Trump would not say this if he did not know something and he has the money to get the dirt…)
As an IRS tax examiner,one of many former federal jobs, I have seen what it appears Barry Soetoro has done, mostly by illegal aliens attempting to acquire a new identity in the U.S and/or criminals looking to acquire a new ID.
Barry, AKA Obama, was lawfully adopted by a foreign national, Lolo Soetoro, and Barry’s name was legally changed to “Barry Soetoro”. (Barry’s own admission) Barry Soetoro was also made an official legal Indonesian citizen. (again Barry’s own admission) The adoption would be noted in Barry’s vital statistics record in Hawaii on his original birth certificate…
OR Lolo Soetoro may have always been Barry’s legal birth farther. The public does not know for sure at this point who Barry’s father really was and Barry himself may not know.
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Trump is correct, Barry Soetoro, AKA Obama is hiding something in his past that is very bad… and it may not be his citizenship. (Trump would not say this if he did not know something and he has the money to get the dirt…)
As an IRS tax examiner,one of many former federal jobs, I have seen what it appears Barry Soetoro has done, mostly by illegal aliens attempting to acquire a new identity in the U.S and/or criminals looking to acquire a new ID.
Barry, AKA Obama, was lawfully adopted by a foreign national, Lolo Soetoro, and Barry’s name was legally changed to “Barry Soetoro”. (Barry’s own admission) Barry Soetoro was also made an official legal Indonesian citizen. (again Barry’s own admission) The adoption would be noted in Barry’s vital statistics record in Hawaii on his original birth certificate…
OR Lolo Soetoro may have always been Barry’s legal birth farther. The public does not know for sure at this point who Barry’s father really was and Barry himself may not know.
More
Christina Schools to Continue with Reforms
The Christina School District is continuing to move forward with its plans to restructure two low-performing schools, despite the state's decision to freeze grant money intended to pay for that work, the district superintendent said Wednesday in an email to the staff.
"I want to communicate that we are moving forward with the belief that the issues we are currently facing will be resolved," Superintendent Marcia V. Lyles said in the email. "We are continuing to plan for our two Partnership Zone schools. We know we have strong plans for both Glasgow High School and Stubbs Elementary School that were developed collaboratively over many months. We believe that these plans will significantly transform these two schools and accelerate student achievement."
But some district activities would be postponed until more is known about the funding. A staff information session on Race to the Top and a parent and student "Academy Showcase" meeting -- both scheduled for May 5 -- have been put on hold.
The district's Board of Education and state government are embroiled in a dispute over a local choice to retain 19 educators at Glasgow High School and Stubbs Elementary who were to be transferred -- retaining full pay and benefits -- to new schools. The two schools are part of the state's Partnership Zone, a program that makes intensive changes at failing schools.
Checking Account Disclosure Docs Longer Than Romeo & Juliet
We recently wrote about the PIRG study showing how fewer than 40% of banks were willing to clearly disclose checking account fee schedules. Now a new report from the Pew Charitable Trust demonstrates just how far banks are willing to go to make it difficult for consumers to know what they are getting with their checking accounts.
The Pew's study looked at more than 250 types of checking accounts offered online by the ten largest banks in the United States and found that the median length of disclosure documents to be 111 pages, "consisting of account agreements, addendums to account agreements, fee schedules... Many of these documents are not user friendly, with much of the text densely printed, difficult to decipher, and highly technical and legalistic...
"In addition, the banks often used different names for the same fee or service; put the information in different documents, different media (Web or hard copy), or different locations in a document; and did not summarize or collect key information anywhere."
According to the Pew folks, the amount of text in these documents comes out to around twice what you'd find in a copy of Romeo & Juliet.
Among the other findings in the study:
• Overdraft fees will cost American consumers an estimated $38 billion in 2011—an all-time high.
• Banks reserve the right to reorder transactions in a manner that will maximize overdraft fees. "Banks can maximize the number of times an account 'goes negative' by reordering deposits and withdrawals to reduce the account balance as quickly as possible. Posting withdrawals before deposits and posting withdrawals from largest to smallest have the effect of maximizing overdrafts."
• More than 80 percent of accounts examined contain either binding mandatory arbitration agreements or fee-sharing provisions that require the accountholder to pay the bank's losses, costs, and expenses in a legal dispute regardless of the outcome of the case.
Birth Certificate: Pixels Don't Lie
A scanner will not pixelate what it picks up at different scale
A very simple review of Barack Obama's long form birth certificate, which was released on the whitehouse.gov website on 04/27/2011, indicates that the document was altered. Anyone can review this finding, and I urge them to do so.
Simply go to http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/rss_viewer/birth-certificate-long-form.pdf and open the purported birth certificate. If your browser opens the document and not a pdf viewer, I suggest you save the document on your computer, browse to the location of the document, right-click on the document, selecting "Open with" and open it with a pdf viewer. A free copy of a pdf viewer can be downloaded at http://www.adobe.com/.
MoreThere are a great many places to view the anomaly that I'm about to show you on the document. I chose to look at the letter "D" in the signature of Ann Dunham Obama. Using the tools in your PDF viewer, zoom in on the letter "D" as close as you can - just before the pixels in the letter "D" become illegible and blurred. Now, observe the size of the pixels in the letter "D". Compare the size of the pixels in the letter "D" to the size of the pixels in the background of the document. They seem to be the same size, correct?
Petition For Senate Bill 167
PETITION DRIVE TO GET VOTER REFERENDUM ON THE 2012 MARYLAND BALLOT BEGINS TUESDAY!
LET CITIZENS DECIDE FATE OF IN-STATE COLLEGE TUITION FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT STUDENTS!
LEARN HOW YOU CAN BE AN ACTIVE PART OF THE PROCESS!
Washington County Delegate Neil Parrott, his assistant Kari Snyder & a team of volunteers, a host of organizations & concerned citizens across Maryland, in coordination with Baltimore County Delegate Pat McDonough, are leading the petition initiative.
A website for this Statewide Referendum Petition on In-State College Tuition for Illegal Immigrant Students is now up, but not completely running. That will change on Tuesday April 26, 2011.
Family Told Frazier's Remains Will Stay In Landfill
LAUREL, Md. (WUSA) -- The family of apparent murder-victim Latisha Frazier is trying to cope with a judge's ruling this week that authorities to not have to search for Latisha's remains.
Police believe the 18-year-old mother was lured to a D.C. apartment last year, imprisoned there, murdered, and dismembered before her remains were dumped into a garbage bin and then likely trucked to a large landfill in Virginia.
Police had argued it could take millions of dollars to conduct the search through hundreds of tons of garbage with no likelihood of success and also argued the search was too dangerous to conduct. On Wednesday, a judge agreed.
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Police believe the 18-year-old mother was lured to a D.C. apartment last year, imprisoned there, murdered, and dismembered before her remains were dumped into a garbage bin and then likely trucked to a large landfill in Virginia.
Police had argued it could take millions of dollars to conduct the search through hundreds of tons of garbage with no likelihood of success and also argued the search was too dangerous to conduct. On Wednesday, a judge agreed.
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Delaware personal income taxes due
DOVER, Del. (AP) -- It's tax time, again.
Delaware residents' personal income taxes are due Monday, and Division of Revenue Director Patrick Carter is reminding that they can file online.
Taxpayers who request refunds using the online filing system receive their refund two weeks earlier than those filing a paper return. The online system allows taxpayers to file electronically and then schedule their payment closer to the May 2 deadline. Taxpayers may pay with a credit card or by debiting their bank account.
This year, more than 80 percent of taxpayers have filed online.
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Delaware residents' personal income taxes are due Monday, and Division of Revenue Director Patrick Carter is reminding that they can file online.
Taxpayers who request refunds using the online filing system receive their refund two weeks earlier than those filing a paper return. The online system allows taxpayers to file electronically and then schedule their payment closer to the May 2 deadline. Taxpayers may pay with a credit card or by debiting their bank account.
This year, more than 80 percent of taxpayers have filed online.
More
Former United Way Employee Indicted On Fraud Charges
Prosecutor say she stole $400,000 from nonprofit
A federal grand jury on Thursday indicted a former United Way of Central Maryland employee on charges that she bilked the nonprofit out of more than $400,000 by steering deposits to a bank account she had allegedly commandeered.Dorothy Shields Talbot, 48, who lives in Woodlawn and worked in United Way's finance department from 2001 through 2010, was charged with wire fraud. A statement from the Maryland U.S. attorney's office says she had been responsible for depositing donations into a corporate bank account.
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