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Wednesday, February 02, 2011
Students Stand Up For Safe Learning Environment
Students at Mardela Middle and High School put safety first Wednesday morning when they immediately notified staff of a knife in the hands of a fellow student. With that information, staff members on the bus ramp during arrival for school Wednesday quickly detained the 7th-grade student, and the knife. No injuries occurred in the incident and all students and staff were safe and calm as the school day got under way.
Mardela Middle and High School Principal Lori Batts commended students and staff for their swift response to the incident. The student has been charged by the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office and will also receive discipline according to the school system's Code of Conduct.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen emphasized that providing a safe learning environment for students, along with a safe working environment for staff, is one of the Board of Education's three strategic priorities.
"It's unfortunate when a young person makes a poor choice involving school safety, but I'm pleased that the students and staff of Mardela Middle and High School acted quickly and responsibly to ensure that the disruption was minimized and the safe learning environment was restored," he said.
Mardela Middle and High School Principal Lori Batts commended students and staff for their swift response to the incident. The student has been charged by the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office and will also receive discipline according to the school system's Code of Conduct.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen emphasized that providing a safe learning environment for students, along with a safe working environment for staff, is one of the Board of Education's three strategic priorities.
"It's unfortunate when a young person makes a poor choice involving school safety, but I'm pleased that the students and staff of Mardela Middle and High School acted quickly and responsibly to ensure that the disruption was minimized and the safe learning environment was restored," he said.
United, Senate Dems Defeat Health Care Repeal Measure
Senate Democrats remained united on Wednesday in killing a Republican effort to repeal the health care bill signed into law last March.
As expected, no Democrats voted against a procedural motion that effectively defeated a GOP amendment -- sponsored by Republican Leader Mitch McConnell and tacked on to an unrelated aviation bill -- to repeal the health legislation.
All Republicans voted together in favor of the McConnell-sponsored amendment. The vote was 47-51.
The House passed the repeal measure last month.
GO HERE to read more.
As expected, no Democrats voted against a procedural motion that effectively defeated a GOP amendment -- sponsored by Republican Leader Mitch McConnell and tacked on to an unrelated aviation bill -- to repeal the health legislation.
All Republicans voted together in favor of the McConnell-sponsored amendment. The vote was 47-51.
The House passed the repeal measure last month.
GO HERE to read more.
1st District Congressman Andy Harris In Salisbury To Meet With Key Law Enforcement Officials, County Exec. & Mayor
He explained how matching grants are available for equipment and other items they desperately need to fight crime.
Congressman Harris will meet later today with business owners and other legislators at the Chamber of Commerce for a one on one meeting and then open it up to the public around 4 PM. Another item on their list today is the opening of Congressman Harris' new Office on the Downtown Plaza.
More to come.....
'Worst Ever' Cyclone Slams Into Australia
INNISFAIL, Australia (AFP) – A terrifying top-strength cyclone slammed into Australia's populous northeast coast Thursday, with officials warning it could be one of the most lethal storms in the nation's history.
Howling winds whipped up by Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi with speeds of up to 290 kilometres (181 miles) per hour ripped off roofs, felled trees and cut power lines as the storm crossed the Queensland coast.
Yasi, the worst storm to hit the area in a century, made landfall around midnight (1400 GMT), the Bureau of Meteorology said, after the cyclone was upgraded early in the day to a category five storm from category four.
"The large destructive core of Cyclone Yasi is starting to cross the coast between Innisfail and Cardwell, with a dangerous storm tide and battering waves to the south of the cyclone centre," the bureau said in a statement.
The storm made landfall near Mission Beach, which lies in the heart of a tourism and agriculture-rich area 180 kilometres south of Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
GO HERE to read more.
Howling winds whipped up by Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi with speeds of up to 290 kilometres (181 miles) per hour ripped off roofs, felled trees and cut power lines as the storm crossed the Queensland coast.
Yasi, the worst storm to hit the area in a century, made landfall around midnight (1400 GMT), the Bureau of Meteorology said, after the cyclone was upgraded early in the day to a category five storm from category four.
"The large destructive core of Cyclone Yasi is starting to cross the coast between Innisfail and Cardwell, with a dangerous storm tide and battering waves to the south of the cyclone centre," the bureau said in a statement.
The storm made landfall near Mission Beach, which lies in the heart of a tourism and agriculture-rich area 180 kilometres south of Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
GO HERE to read more.
Anderson Cooper Attacked In Egypt
Cooper, 43, said he and his production crew, reporting from Cairo, were set upon by demonstrators loyal to embattled president Hosni Mubarak. "The attackers pushed and shoved the CNN crew and punched them in the head, he said, but no one was seriously hurt," according to a report on CNN.com.
A colleague, CNN's Steve Brusk, tweeted that Cooper was "punched 10 times in the head" by a "pro-Mubarak mob."
GO HERE to read more.
GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY TO DELIVER STATE OF THE STATE
ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 2, 2011) – Governor Martin O’Malley will deliver the State of the State address tomorrow at noon. Maryland Public Television will broadcast the speech live. Credentialed members of the media are permitted on the House floor during the speech. Embargoed copies of the speech are not available prior to the start of the speech.
An enhanced version of the Governor’s speech will stream live online at governor.maryland.gov. During and after the speech, viewers can connect with the Governor’s office on Twitter. Staff from the Governor’s Office will answer questions live on Twitter at hashtag #MDSOTS. On Friday at 4 p.m., Lt/ Governor Brown will continue answering questions from Marylanders on the state’s YouTube Channel. Marylanders are encouraged to submit questions to the Lt. Governor at ltgov@gov.state.md.us, or connect with him on Twitter.
Would The Supreme Court Reject The Affordable Care Act?
A Florida federal judge ruled Monday that Congress overstepped its authority when it passed last year's Affordable Care Act, providing the most serious challenge yet to President Obama's signature legislative accomplishment. Attorneys for the 26 states that brought the suit said Monday that the decision gives those states grounds to ignore the law, though the Obama Administration disagrees and has vowed to appeal. The latest salvos all but guarantee that the Supreme Court will step in to decide whether the law is constitutional, now that two federal judges have ruled in favor of the legislation and, counting the Florida decision, two have ruled against it.
But as those challenges snake their way up through the courts, more than just health care reform is at stake. If successful, the suits could end up rejiggering the delicate balance between the federal government and the states, and could profoundly redefine the limits of congressional power. (See 10 players in health care reform.)
The legislation at issue, and in particular its requirement that all Americans buy health insurance, is rooted in the power granted to Congress by the commerce clause of the Constitution. That's the bit of language in Article I that says Congress has the power to "regulate commerce with foreign nations, and among the several states, and with the Indian tribes."
For most of the past 100 years, the Supreme Court has interpreted those few words broadly, using them to uphold some of Congress's most progressive pieces of legislation, from Depression-era farm quotas to bans on racial discrimination in the 1960s. But when Senate Democrats included the so-called individual mandate in the health care reform bill last year, some Republicans objected immediately, arguing that the law simply exceeds Congress's authority.
GO HERE to read more.
But as those challenges snake their way up through the courts, more than just health care reform is at stake. If successful, the suits could end up rejiggering the delicate balance between the federal government and the states, and could profoundly redefine the limits of congressional power. (See 10 players in health care reform.)
The legislation at issue, and in particular its requirement that all Americans buy health insurance, is rooted in the power granted to Congress by the commerce clause of the Constitution. That's the bit of language in Article I that says Congress has the power to "regulate commerce with foreign nations, and among the several states, and with the Indian tribes."
For most of the past 100 years, the Supreme Court has interpreted those few words broadly, using them to uphold some of Congress's most progressive pieces of legislation, from Depression-era farm quotas to bans on racial discrimination in the 1960s. But when Senate Democrats included the so-called individual mandate in the health care reform bill last year, some Republicans objected immediately, arguing that the law simply exceeds Congress's authority.
GO HERE to read more.
Wicomico County Council's Action - Emphasis On Taxpayers
1. Waiver of a State mandated residential sprinkler ordinance that would have required all newly constructed single family homes to be equipped with a residential sprinkler system.
2. Capital improvements budget submitted by County Executive - Rick Pollitt.
3. Hiring an energy management consulting company to implement not only an energy analysis for County owned buildings - but also to act as a general contractor to implement energy improvements under Phase II.
4. Legislation for an elected County School Board - to be drafted and submitted to our State Delegation.
Intense and lengthy debate centered mainly around a State mandated residential sprinkler ordinance whereby area residents overwhelming spoke out against the requirement to have residential sprinkler systems installed for all newly constructed single family homes.
When all was said and told - the County Council voted 6-1 against implementation of the ordinance. Most of the audience that testified against the ordinance feared not only the cost would be a deterrent to home ownership - but also that the statistics don't bear out the evidence that it actually saves lives. Bottom line - the County Council voted with their constituents interest at heart - citing that homeowners still have the option to install - but not a government mandated requirement.
What really impressed me about this meeting though - (and I have witnessed many other County Council meetings) - was that this is one of the those rare times in my life whereby I actually felt like the majority of County Council members have placed the taxpayers interest at the top of the 'totem pole' as opposed to caving into special interest.
My advise to Council members - stay the coarse.
A Letter To The Editor
SALISBURY: HERE’S A COMMENT WORTHY OF POSTING!
Yesterday Sbynews posted a statement by the president of the local landlords’ league, SAPOA, that is a personal and political attack on the Mayor and two members of the City Council, one of whom is running for reelection this year. That post drew many comments, including the one posted below.
Note, among other things, the reference to a PAC called "Citizens for a Better Salisbury," which, as Sbynews reported last week, describes itself as a coalition of "like minded business persons." It is reported that they are intent on continuing their control of the City Council by a majority composed of their bobble head puppets, such as Louise Smith, who will soon be leaving the Council along with Gary Comegys. We now have it from reliable sources that this PAC includes various present or past supporters of that pair, the "Dream Team" (Comegys, Cathcart and Dunn) and Barrie Tilghman. Apparently, this PAC has ties to the local Chamber of Commerce and Greater Salisbury Committee as well as SAPOA. We welcome further details about the PAC, which we understand plans to endorse and support certain candidates for the City Council.
* * * * *
http://www.blogger.com/profile/03034113812131713030 said...
Only in Salisbury is there a member of the Chamber of Commerce and the Vice President of the landlord organization, SAPOA, Stu Leer running around spouting publicly, that they have formed a PAC, Citizens for a Better Salisbury, that will spend $100,000 on this election to take control of the council and to unseat the current mayor.
Only in Salisbury can this same Chamber member and Vice President of SAPOA, Stu Leer, make statements such as "It doesn't have to be true, we just have to say it".
Only in Salisbury is this mentality not only supported by many members of SAPOA, it is encouraged.
To compare the politics of Salisbury with the Holocaust is no different or less offensive than Stu Leer referring to citizens as being Viet Cong.
Students are the problem for SAPOA. They once made a very lucrative living off these kids, charging them $400 and $500 per month to rent a room. Now that the University has built more housing and the Rinniers have followed suit building more student housing, the slumlords have lost a lot of money on student rentals. Have they invested any of those 100's of thousands if not millions of dollars in their rental property maintenance? Did they treat the students fairly by not maintaining their properties in a safe manner? This bunch of cry baby poor little rich boys and girls need to get over themselves and abide by the law like every other property owner in the city. There are laws on the books, follow them or sell your property to someone that will.
Barrie Tilghman allowed this special interest group to do as they pleased in the city. As long as they were making money they didn't care that their properties were going to ruin, they don't live in the city and they don't have to look at it. They live in places like Nithsdale, High Banks and riverfront McMansions on Riverside Dr. It's all about them and the hell with the neighborhoods.
Kris Adams and her group of slumlords are so used to doing all of their dirt in back rooms they have the audacity to accuse our legislators of doing the same. Well since when did anyone in Annapolis ask our permission to draft legislation in the state? Name one time, one legislator? Just because puppets like Comegys, Smith and Shields were not included doesn't make it wrong. In my opinion it was rather smart and far less time consuming. What exactly could any of the 3 puppets add to any piece of meaningful legislation? What meaningful legislation has any of those 3 offered? All they have done is accomodate every special interest group coming down the pike. They have given away literally millions to special interest groups such as SAPOA and other landlord/developers.
Face it, people are sick and tired of business as usual. They want laws to protect them and their investment in their properties.
If Kris Adams thinks this is the way to affect change, she either needs to see a shrink or she needs to think again. She is especially mad because her student rentals losing thanks to SU's continued expansion of student housing.
http://sbynews.blogspot.com/2011/02/sapoa-exclusive-on-salisbury-news.html?showComment=1296596565736
PS – Ms. Adams, the president of SAPOA, sent the comment that we posted yesterday.
An Open Letter to Kris Adams and SAPOA
SAPOA doesn’t like Salisbury mayor Jim Ireton, councilwoman Debbie Campbell, councilwoman Terry Cohen, or council candidate Tim Spies. Fair enough. They are all friends of mine and I disagree with them quite frequently; particularly when it comes to Mayor Ireton’s housing regulation package (sorry Jim - “Crime Package”). That said, it is SAPOA – the party claiming to being persecuted – who is attacking these fine individuals using every despicable tactic in the book.
In 2007, we saw SAPOA members recruit SU students and literally bus (in some cases dubiously) registered voters to the polls at taxpayer expense. These misinformed folk were told that they would lose their homes if the SAPOA-backed ticket wasn’t elected.
In 2009, SAPOA members resorted to the worst kinds of personal slurs against then-candidate Jim Ireton. Along with these, city renters were bombarded with literature attacking Ireton and councilwoman Debbie Campbell. The nastiness of SAPOA’s tactics backfired; as we learned through interviews conducted by WSDL’s Don Rush.
2011 looked as if it might be a different year. Too much of Ireton’s “Safe Streets” package was so blatantly anti-business that even long time opponents such as myself jumped to SAPOA’s defense. With Kris Adams as president, SAPOA seemed to have a new face – both literally and figuratively. SAPOA seemed to be ceasing their laughable self-portrayal as “protectors of the poor, the oppressed, the black, and the brown”. Instead, Adams talked about SAPOA being what they are – businessmen and women – who are working to attain an adequate return on their sizable investment by providing a needed service.
Well, it seems that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. SAPOA has returned to their old ways of deceit, scaremongering, and (as we will see in the next several weeks) attempting to buy elections.
As we noted here a couple of weeks ago, SAPOA is playing the race card. While this is always offensive, any group that uses this tactic AND has members who have actually threatened persons because they rented a home in THEIR neighborhood to a black family are hypocrites of the highest order.
Now we have an early salvo from Adams. Expect more as the election progresses.
Adams starts off her op-ed by stating that “Salisbury’s politics play out like the theatre of the absurd”. On this point we can agree, though not for the reasons she later cites. In fact, this is one of the few statements Adams makes which have any basis in reality.
Only in Salisbury is it considered normal for the Mayor and Council to make use of slurs and inaccurate broad generalizations about tenants and business people alike.While Ireton has been known to go a little wild at times, there is no evidence that Campbell or Cohen slur renters and scant evidence that they slur landlords. Both make a point to note that there are good landlords and bad ones. Even SAPOA has admitted this in multiple public statements by its members. Campbell and Cohen are both vigorous supporters of a “tenant bill of rights”. SAPOA doesn’t even want those words mentioned together in public.
Only in Salisbury can two City Council members share the same website and push the same agenda, and no one, especially the press, is disturbed by the collusion.What collusion? There is certainly nothing illegal about this. Besides, I don’t recall SAPOA complaining when county councilwoman Sheree Sample-Hughes and Salisbury councilwoman Shanie Shields jointly published a newsletter. Of course not, Shields behaves like the “house slave” for SAPOA. Wouldn’t want to criticize her.
Only in Salisbury is a "public input" meeting code language for a taxpayer funded bully pulpit to proselytize and to campaign for re-election.One of my personal favorites. Who dominated the discussion at these meetings? SAPOA – its members, family, and friends.
Only in Salisbury do we deny housing to the veterans who served and protected our country because the veteran’s house doesn’t fit the Mayor and Council Members’ myopic definition of what is acceptable.Another favorite – and another lie. The owner of this “veterans’ home”, a SAPOA member, built a multi-family home in a single family residential neighborhood. He “misrepresented” the project on his building permit application AND his application for an occupancy permit. Bringing this matter up simply adds evidence to the pile that SAPOA has NO respect for the city’s zoning laws, and possibly its other laws as well.
This list goes on, and on, and on …. While I do agree with Mrs. Adams that there are those in city government (as well as the state and federal governments) who believe that they know more about what a business needs than the businesses’ owners, little else in her attack piece holds up to the light of evidence and reason. Sadly, this is just the camel’s nose under the tent. As the election season progresses it’s going to get pretty bumpy.
Third Friday A Look Back At Summer
If you're missing the warm weather you can check out the video I just released featuring lost moments of 3rd Friday from this past summer. The video was filmed and edited by DaveyJoeVideo and features still photography from SMDiphotography@gmail.com
State Roundup, February 2, 2011
It’s Groundhog Day, guaranteeing us six more weeks of winter and 10 of the General Assembly session. As lawmakers take a closer look at O’Malley’s budget, questions arise over funding formulas for schools and roads; state GOP comes out against gay marriage and Kittleman now unsure if and when he’ll propose civil unions; driving issues bubble to the surface — O’Malley wants to refuse licenses to those who owe taxes and proposes fees for bad drivers; while others seek to make use of hand-held devices while driving a primary offense; lawmakers hotel per diem faces a challenge; illegal alien numbers grow in state; Landow objects to Penn National purchase of Rosecroft; state roads stink, study finds; and 3 tons of rockfish seized.
GO HERE to read much more.
GO HERE to read much more.
Governments And Startups Just Don't Mix
The White House effort to boost U.S. innovation and entrepreneurship faces a divide: government agenda vs. venture capitalism's highly developed profit motive
The White House on Monday, Jan. 31, announced The Startup America Partnership, an effort to boost innovation and entrepreneurship in the U.S. through a program that encourages private companies to offer mentorship and possibly funding for entrepreneurs—but it mostly looks like an opportunity to get a lot of press, with low returns for actual startups. The goal of the program is to "continue to marshal private-sector resources to spur entrepreneurship in the U.S., " something I'd argue is already happening at most of the levels the program plans to concern itself with. It will focus on replicating successful accelerator programs such as Denver's TechStars, expanding entrepreneurship education, and boosting the commercialization of new technologies out of colleges.
The program has $200 million in funding from Intel (INTC), $150 million from IBM (IBM), and at least $4 million from Hewlett-Packard (HPQ), as well as partnerships with organizations such as The Kaufmann Foundation and existing accelerators such as TechStars. Facebook plans to help too, by launching Startup Days: a series of 12 to 15 events around the country to provide entrepreneurs with access to expertise, resources, and engineers to build their businesses. Steve Case, co-founder of AOL (AOL), chief executive officer of Revolution LLC, and chairman of the Case Foundation will chair the initiative.
GO HERE to read more.
The White House on Monday, Jan. 31, announced The Startup America Partnership, an effort to boost innovation and entrepreneurship in the U.S. through a program that encourages private companies to offer mentorship and possibly funding for entrepreneurs—but it mostly looks like an opportunity to get a lot of press, with low returns for actual startups. The goal of the program is to "continue to marshal private-sector resources to spur entrepreneurship in the U.S., " something I'd argue is already happening at most of the levels the program plans to concern itself with. It will focus on replicating successful accelerator programs such as Denver's TechStars, expanding entrepreneurship education, and boosting the commercialization of new technologies out of colleges.
The program has $200 million in funding from Intel (INTC), $150 million from IBM (IBM), and at least $4 million from Hewlett-Packard (HPQ), as well as partnerships with organizations such as The Kaufmann Foundation and existing accelerators such as TechStars. Facebook plans to help too, by launching Startup Days: a series of 12 to 15 events around the country to provide entrepreneurs with access to expertise, resources, and engineers to build their businesses. Steve Case, co-founder of AOL (AOL), chief executive officer of Revolution LLC, and chairman of the Case Foundation will chair the initiative.
GO HERE to read more.
Barbara Bush Endorses Gay Marriage
Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com
The former first daughter is the latest Republican figure to come out in support of gay marriage, following Meghan McCain and Mary Cheney.
Senate Suspends Earmark Spending For Two Years
The man in charge of doling out federal dollars in the Senate, Appropriations Committee Chairman Daniel Inouye, D-Hawaii, announced Tuesday that his committee will implement a moratorium on earmarks for the next two fiscal years.
Those actions, Inouye said in a statement, forced the appropriator's hand, "Given the reality before us, it makes no sense to accept earmark requests that have no chance of being enacted into law."
GO HERE to read more.
Ethics Commission Meeting
Agenda Items:
Revisions to the State Ethics Code
The public is welcomed to attend.
Obama Set To Sign U.S.-Russia Nuclear Treaty
Agreement limits strategic warheads, reestablishes monitoring system
WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama is pushing a key foreign policy goal, a nuclear arms treaty with Russia, closer to completion.
He was signing documents Wednesday for the New START treaty, a cornerstone of U.S. efforts to "reset" ties with Russia.
The agreement limits each country to 1,550 strategic warheads, down from 2,200. It also re-establishes a monitoring system that ended in December 2009 with the expiration of an earlier arms deal.
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev signed the papers last week after the treaty cleared parliament. The U.S. Senate approved the pact in late December after Obama lobbied hard for passage.
GO HERE to read more.
Department Of Defense Needs More Workplace Flexibility
Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Tuesday that creating a more flexible workplace is a "strategic imperative" for the Defense Department. He said the military must make the same adaptations that are being made in the private sector and in civilian agencies if it intends to hold onto its talent.
Keeping Carter’s Home Neat Costs U. S. A Tidy Sum
The tennis court at former President Jimmy Carter‘s private home is swept twice a day, his pool is cleaned daily and his grass cut, his flower beds weeded and his windows washed on a regular basis - all at taxpayers’ expense.
Under an arrangement with the National Park Service, taxpayers are responsible for the exterior of Mr. Carter‘s home in Plains, Ga. - to the tune of $67,841 last year alone. In exchange, the government obtains the right to add the home to the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site when he and his wife pass away.
Other presidents have had similar life estate agreements calling for their properties to be turned over after their deaths, but to have taxpayers footing the bill for upkeep and maintenance of the Carters’ property appears to be unique, and it’s drawing fire at a time of tight federal budgets.
“The sad part is, 67 grand is simply a rounding error. Most people around here wouldn’t think it’s worth the effort, but it’s symbolic,” said Rep. Rob Bishop, Utah Republican and chairman of the subcommittee that oversees parks.
Mr. Carter‘s spokeswoman, Deanna Congileo, said the former president is open to some changes in the arrangement but that it’s up to the Park Service to make those decisions.
“President Carter would be glad to reduce the frequency of routine maintenance at the discretion of the Park Service,” Ms. Congileo said.
Park Service officials say they are taking such close care of Mr. Carter‘s home because that is what the agreement requires, and to ensure that the property will be in good shape when it is eventually added to the Carter National Historic Site, which now covers the president’s boyhood farm and the school he and wife Rosalynn attended.
More
Under an arrangement with the National Park Service, taxpayers are responsible for the exterior of Mr. Carter‘s home in Plains, Ga. - to the tune of $67,841 last year alone. In exchange, the government obtains the right to add the home to the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site when he and his wife pass away.
Other presidents have had similar life estate agreements calling for their properties to be turned over after their deaths, but to have taxpayers footing the bill for upkeep and maintenance of the Carters’ property appears to be unique, and it’s drawing fire at a time of tight federal budgets.
“The sad part is, 67 grand is simply a rounding error. Most people around here wouldn’t think it’s worth the effort, but it’s symbolic,” said Rep. Rob Bishop, Utah Republican and chairman of the subcommittee that oversees parks.
Mr. Carter‘s spokeswoman, Deanna Congileo, said the former president is open to some changes in the arrangement but that it’s up to the Park Service to make those decisions.
“President Carter would be glad to reduce the frequency of routine maintenance at the discretion of the Park Service,” Ms. Congileo said.
Park Service officials say they are taking such close care of Mr. Carter‘s home because that is what the agreement requires, and to ensure that the property will be in good shape when it is eventually added to the Carter National Historic Site, which now covers the president’s boyhood farm and the school he and wife Rosalynn attended.
More
GOP Leader McConnell To Force Senate Vote On Obamacare Repeal
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell will force an up-or-down vote on the repeal of healthcare reform on Wednesday, testing the unity of Democrats who had promised the rollback would never see the light of day in their chamber.
The vote in the Senate will come two weeks to the day after the House voted, largely along party lines, to repeal the healthcare law.
McConnell (R-Ky.) told colleagues during a lunch meeting on Tuesday that he would offer healthcare reform repeal as an amendment to legislation on the Senate floor.
In a statement, McConnell said the repeal vote gives Democrats a chance to “reevaluate” their support for the controversial healthcare law, which a federal judge in Florida struck down as unconstitutional on Monday.
“For all those who supported the health law, it’s an opportunity to re-evaluate your vote. To listen to your constituents who are desperately trying to get your attention. You can say, ‘Perhaps this was a mistake. We can do this better.’ Or you can continue to dismiss the majority of the people in this country as not knowing what they’re talking about.”
McConnell offered the repeal as an amendment to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill Tuesday afternoon.
“It’s not every day that you can get a second chance on a big decision after you know all the facts,” McConnell said in the statement.
The vote will force Democrats — some of whom were not present for the final vote approving the healthcare legislation last March — to affirm their support for keeping a law that polls have shown is increasingly unpopular with the public.
More from The Hill
The vote in the Senate will come two weeks to the day after the House voted, largely along party lines, to repeal the healthcare law.
McConnell (R-Ky.) told colleagues during a lunch meeting on Tuesday that he would offer healthcare reform repeal as an amendment to legislation on the Senate floor.
In a statement, McConnell said the repeal vote gives Democrats a chance to “reevaluate” their support for the controversial healthcare law, which a federal judge in Florida struck down as unconstitutional on Monday.
“For all those who supported the health law, it’s an opportunity to re-evaluate your vote. To listen to your constituents who are desperately trying to get your attention. You can say, ‘Perhaps this was a mistake. We can do this better.’ Or you can continue to dismiss the majority of the people in this country as not knowing what they’re talking about.”
McConnell offered the repeal as an amendment to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill Tuesday afternoon.
“It’s not every day that you can get a second chance on a big decision after you know all the facts,” McConnell said in the statement.
The vote will force Democrats — some of whom were not present for the final vote approving the healthcare legislation last March — to affirm their support for keeping a law that polls have shown is increasingly unpopular with the public.
More from The Hill
Arizona Sheriff Says Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano Is 'Divorced From Reality'
Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, delivering her first State of Homeland Security address last Thursday, gave an upbeat account of her agency’s accomplishments, including its efforts on immigration and securing the U.S. border.
But Arizona's Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu -- named Sheriff of the Year last week by the National Sheriff's Association -- said Napolitano’s speech was selective in what it emphasized and what it did not disclose.
“2010 was a historic year when it comes to securing and managing our borders and enforcing our immigration laws,” Napolitano said. “There are now more resources on the southwest border in terms of personnel, technology, and infrastructure than ever before in American history. And we continue to see progress on every metric.”
Babeu said Napolitano’s claim was “not surprising.” But he also said her remarks did not reflect conditions on the ground in Arizona, where in the last two years the amount of illegal drugs entering the state that have been confiscated by local authorities has doubled, and the number of pursuits of criminal illegal aliens has tripled.
“Why isn’t the secretary of Homeland Security speaking to these threats?” Babeu asked in a telephone interview with CNSNews.com. “Why does she keep trying to convince us through argument that everything is just fine to the point that she’s trying to hypnotize us into believing this crap.”
Babeu, who is the first Arizona sheriff and the first sheriff in his first elected term to be named Sheriff of the Year, said Napolitano’s assessment reveals that she is out of touch with what the conditions are on what he calls “the front line” fight against illegal immigration.
“This shows you how divorced from reality the secretary of homeland security really is,” Babeu said.
More
But Arizona's Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu -- named Sheriff of the Year last week by the National Sheriff's Association -- said Napolitano’s speech was selective in what it emphasized and what it did not disclose.
“2010 was a historic year when it comes to securing and managing our borders and enforcing our immigration laws,” Napolitano said. “There are now more resources on the southwest border in terms of personnel, technology, and infrastructure than ever before in American history. And we continue to see progress on every metric.”
Babeu said Napolitano’s claim was “not surprising.” But he also said her remarks did not reflect conditions on the ground in Arizona, where in the last two years the amount of illegal drugs entering the state that have been confiscated by local authorities has doubled, and the number of pursuits of criminal illegal aliens has tripled.
“Why isn’t the secretary of Homeland Security speaking to these threats?” Babeu asked in a telephone interview with CNSNews.com. “Why does she keep trying to convince us through argument that everything is just fine to the point that she’s trying to hypnotize us into believing this crap.”
Babeu, who is the first Arizona sheriff and the first sheriff in his first elected term to be named Sheriff of the Year, said Napolitano’s assessment reveals that she is out of touch with what the conditions are on what he calls “the front line” fight against illegal immigration.
“This shows you how divorced from reality the secretary of homeland security really is,” Babeu said.
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Napolitano: Obama Administration's Approach To U.S.-Mexico Border Security "Is Working"
The Obama administration's approach to U.S.-Mexico border security "is working," Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said on Monday, and anyone who suggests otherwise is “misstating the facts and unfairly politicizing border issues.”
Speaking at the University of Texas at El Paso, Napolitano hailed the administration's Southwest Border Initiative for strengthening the border "in a way that many would not have thought possible." She also described in detail the administration's "smart and effective approach" to enforcing immigration laws throughout the country.
At the same time, Napolitano admitted the administration is "deeply concerned" about the violent Mexican drug cartels that are trying to undermine the rule of law in northern Mexico.
“So today I say to the cartels: Don’t even think about bringing your violence and tactics across this border. You will be met by an overwhelming response. And we’re going to continue to work with our partners in Mexico to dismantle and defeat you.”
More here
["Overwhelming response.."-- would that be the 250 National Guard troops sitting at desks down there? --Editor]
Speaking at the University of Texas at El Paso, Napolitano hailed the administration's Southwest Border Initiative for strengthening the border "in a way that many would not have thought possible." She also described in detail the administration's "smart and effective approach" to enforcing immigration laws throughout the country.
At the same time, Napolitano admitted the administration is "deeply concerned" about the violent Mexican drug cartels that are trying to undermine the rule of law in northern Mexico.
“So today I say to the cartels: Don’t even think about bringing your violence and tactics across this border. You will be met by an overwhelming response. And we’re going to continue to work with our partners in Mexico to dismantle and defeat you.”
More here
["Overwhelming response.."-- would that be the 250 National Guard troops sitting at desks down there? --Editor]
New York City Teachers Union Is Largest Recipient Of Obamacare Waiver
The United Federation of Teachers (UFT), the union representing New York City’s public school teachers, is the largest beneficiary of a waiver from one of the provisions in the health-care law signed by President Barack Obama last year.
The UFT is a chapter of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), which spent $1.9 million on the election of President Barack Obama in 2008. The UFT is also an affiliate of the New York State United Teachers, which spent $46,139 in independent expenditures on the election of Obama.
The health care law, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, requires that annual caps on how much an insurance plan will pay in benefits for an enrollee in any given year must be eliminated by 2014. Under the law, the Department of Health and Human Services is now phasing the coverage limits out. In 2011, yearly caps can be no less than $750,000; in 2012, they can be no less than $1.25 million; and in 2013, they can be no less than $2 million in 2013.
The waivers granted to the UFT locals exempt them from having to comply with the phasing out of the annual benefits caps. A total of 351,000 enrollees are in the UFT’s health insurance plan, the UTF Welfare Fund.
Three additional locals of the Service Employees International Union -- an organization whose political action committee spent $27 million in independent expenditures promoting Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign -- received one-year waivers exempting them from complying with a burdensome provision in the new health care law. That brings to six the total number of SEIU locals that have received waivers from Obamacare.
More here
The UFT is a chapter of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), which spent $1.9 million on the election of President Barack Obama in 2008. The UFT is also an affiliate of the New York State United Teachers, which spent $46,139 in independent expenditures on the election of Obama.
The health care law, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, requires that annual caps on how much an insurance plan will pay in benefits for an enrollee in any given year must be eliminated by 2014. Under the law, the Department of Health and Human Services is now phasing the coverage limits out. In 2011, yearly caps can be no less than $750,000; in 2012, they can be no less than $1.25 million; and in 2013, they can be no less than $2 million in 2013.
The waivers granted to the UFT locals exempt them from having to comply with the phasing out of the annual benefits caps. A total of 351,000 enrollees are in the UFT’s health insurance plan, the UTF Welfare Fund.
Three additional locals of the Service Employees International Union -- an organization whose political action committee spent $27 million in independent expenditures promoting Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign -- received one-year waivers exempting them from complying with a burdensome provision in the new health care law. That brings to six the total number of SEIU locals that have received waivers from Obamacare.
More here
Senate Democrat Says He'll Support Balanced Budget Amendment
Sen. Mark Udall (D-Colo.) announced Tuesday that he will co-sponsor a Constitutional amendment requiring a balanced federal budget.
He is the first Democrat to sponsor such a measure in many years.
Udall is introducing his balanced budget amendment bill with Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Ala.). The bill would require that spending not exceed revenue in any given year.
Udall’s move is being taken as a sign of the unusual momentum deficit hawks enjoy in this Congress compared to previous years. It comes on a day when the Democratic head of the Senate Appropriations Committee, long-time earmarker Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii), announced a two-year ban on earmarks in his committee. Udall had pushed for such a ban in the last Congress.
The Udall bill would also limit federal spending to the historical average of 20 percent of gross domestic product in a given year. It currently stands at 24.7 percent.
He is the first Democrat to sponsor such a measure in many years.
Udall is introducing his balanced budget amendment bill with Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Ala.). The bill would require that spending not exceed revenue in any given year.
Udall’s move is being taken as a sign of the unusual momentum deficit hawks enjoy in this Congress compared to previous years. It comes on a day when the Democratic head of the Senate Appropriations Committee, long-time earmarker Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii), announced a two-year ban on earmarks in his committee. Udall had pushed for such a ban in the last Congress.
The Udall bill would also limit federal spending to the historical average of 20 percent of gross domestic product in a given year. It currently stands at 24.7 percent.
Obama: Egypt's Transition To Democracy 'Must Begin Now'
President Barack Obama said Tuesday that a transition to democracy in Egypt "must begin now" and should lead to opposition participation in free and fair elections.
Speaking after Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak's announcement Tuesday that he will not seek reelection in September, Obama said he had called Mubarak after the speech to discuss the situation in Egypt.
"He recognizes that the status quo is not sustainable and that change must take place," Obama said at the White House. He said he told Mubarak of "my belief that an orderly transition must be meaningful, it must be peaceful, and it must begin now."
Earlier, Obama administration officials indicated that Mubarak's announcement was less than they had hoped for and was unlikely to satisfy protesters' demands for a new government.
Obama met with his top national security officials following Mubarak's televised speech as the White House contemplated its next step.
Mubarak spoke after receiving a direct message from Obama carried by retired US diplomat Frank Wisner. Although officials declined to discuss the details of Wisner's meeting Tuesday with Mubarak, they said that the administration's "prevailing view" since last weekend has been that an agreement by Mubarak not to run again was insufficient.
In public statements since Sunday, the administration has called for an "orderly transition" in Egypt, defined by officials as the immediate establishment of a representative, interim government that would enact reforms and prepare for an openelection.
Although officials have said the administration was not opposed to Mubarak's remaining in office through a transition period if that were acceptable to the Egyptian people, several indicated in recent days that they did not see how that would satisfy the vast throngs who have taken to the streets to demand his ouster.
Obama's message to Mubarak urging him not to run again contrasted sharply with the White House's characterization of its position in a news briefing Monday.
Asked whether the US government preferred "that Mubarak not run again," press secretary Robert Gibbs said: "The United States government does not determine who's on the ballot. The question is whether or not those elections are going to be free and fair. That's what we would weigh in on and weigh in on strongly."
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Speaking after Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak's announcement Tuesday that he will not seek reelection in September, Obama said he had called Mubarak after the speech to discuss the situation in Egypt.
"He recognizes that the status quo is not sustainable and that change must take place," Obama said at the White House. He said he told Mubarak of "my belief that an orderly transition must be meaningful, it must be peaceful, and it must begin now."
Earlier, Obama administration officials indicated that Mubarak's announcement was less than they had hoped for and was unlikely to satisfy protesters' demands for a new government.
Obama met with his top national security officials following Mubarak's televised speech as the White House contemplated its next step.
Mubarak spoke after receiving a direct message from Obama carried by retired US diplomat Frank Wisner. Although officials declined to discuss the details of Wisner's meeting Tuesday with Mubarak, they said that the administration's "prevailing view" since last weekend has been that an agreement by Mubarak not to run again was insufficient.
In public statements since Sunday, the administration has called for an "orderly transition" in Egypt, defined by officials as the immediate establishment of a representative, interim government that would enact reforms and prepare for an openelection.
Although officials have said the administration was not opposed to Mubarak's remaining in office through a transition period if that were acceptable to the Egyptian people, several indicated in recent days that they did not see how that would satisfy the vast throngs who have taken to the streets to demand his ouster.
Obama's message to Mubarak urging him not to run again contrasted sharply with the White House's characterization of its position in a news briefing Monday.
Asked whether the US government preferred "that Mubarak not run again," press secretary Robert Gibbs said: "The United States government does not determine who's on the ballot. The question is whether or not those elections are going to be free and fair. That's what we would weigh in on and weigh in on strongly."
More from JPost
Many Lawmakers Could Lose Hotel Perk Under Proposed Bill
Many members of the General Assembly could lose their lodging reimbursements under a bill being introduced by Sen. Allan Kittleman that would eliminate the perk for any legislator who lives less than 50 miles from the State House. “We’re asking state workers to accept furloughs and benefit cuts,” Kittleman said. “But we’re still letting legislators who live 10 miles away stay in hotels.”
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Poor Road Conditions Cost Md. Drivers More Than $2,200 In Maintenance, Gas Per Year
The congestion and poor condition of Maryland’s roads cost drivers an average of more than $2,200 annually in added maintenance, gasoline, and safety costs, according to a new report from a national nonprofit transportation research group. The report from the TRIP organization says the average driver in the Baltimore area ends up paying $2,226 each year because of road conditions and traffic. Average DC-area drivers end up paying $2,296 each year. This adds up to $7 billion in costs to motorists statewide, the report estimates.
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Liberal Lawmakers Push Fight For Combined Corporate Tax Reporting
Liberal senators and delegates are pressing ahead with bills to bring the combined reporting method of corporate taxation to Maryland, even after the Business Tax Reform Commission rejected the idea in November. “We think combined reporting will create a level playing field,” said Sen. Paul Pinsky, a Prince George’s County Democrat who has championed the measure in the past.
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South Dakota Politicians Propose Mandatory Gun Ownership Law
A handful of South Dakota lawmakers have introduced a bill that would require every one of the state's citizens over the age of 21 to own a firearm. But the legislation isn't really intended to force South Dakota residents to take up arms. Instead, it's meant to highlight the questions some have regarding the constitutionality of the mandatory coverage portion of the health care bill.
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100 Sled Dogs Slain After Tourist Slump
In what is the most disturbing tale of the aftershocks of the economic downturn, in Canada an outdoor adventure company is being investigated for the "execution-style" mass killing of 100 of its sled dogs. The sled dogs were not as in demand after the Olympic Games in Vancouver were over, so, when the tourists went, the dogs had to go too, reports the Vancouver Sun.
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Whopping 11% Of US Homes Are Empty
The vacancy sign is blazing over house divisions across the US. About 1 in 10 houses in America have no one living inside them, according to new data from the Census, CNBC reports. (Update: while technically correct, this number includes other kinds of properties like abandoned farm house. The more typically used number, the home-vacancy rate, is 2.7%, up from 2.5% the previous quarter).
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Woman Charged With Animal Cruelty For Mailing Live Puppy
"This is for your 11th birthday. It's what you wanted," was written on the outside of an Atlanta-bound Priority Mail box in a Minneapolis post office. It caught postal workers' attention when it started moving on its own and making loud panting sounds. They got permission to open the box and found... a four-month old poodle-schnauzer mix puppy who was very, very happy to be free. The woman who mailed the box was charged with animal cruelty, then went back to the post office to try to get a refund for the $22 in postage she paid.
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Check Out The Latest Updates On Crime Solvers
GO HERE to see the latest update. It will blow you away!
Text Tip Introduction
Delaware State Police Offer an Addition Way for the Public to Provide Information on Crimes
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Resume:
Dover- Effective Tuesday, February 1, 2011, the Delaware State Police, with the assistance of Robert Mooney, Executive Director of Delaware Crime Stoppers, are implementing an additional method for the public to provide anonymous tips and information with the use of their cellular phone. Callers will be able to provide information to the Delaware State Police by sending a text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword "DSP". The confidential, anonymous tip will be received and then forwarded to the appropriate investigator or unit. This method is being utilized in addition to lines being maintained by the Delaware Crimes Stoppers (1-800-TIP-3333) as well as the ability to provide information via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com.
Super Bowl Tickets
A man had 50 yard line tickets to the Super Bowl
As he sat down, he noticed that the seat next to him was empty.
He asked the man on the other side of the empty seat whether anyone was sitting there.
"No," the man replied, "The seat is empty."
"This is incredible," said the first man.
"Who in their right mind would have a seat like this for the Super Bowl, the biggest sporting event in the world and not use it?"
The second man replied, "Well, actually, the seat belongs to me. I was supposed to come with my wife, but she passed away.
This will be the first Super bowl we haven't been together since we got married in 1967."
"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. That's terrible. But couldn't you find someone else -- a friend or relative, or even a neighbor to take the seat?"
The man shook his head. "No, they're all at the funeral."
As he sat down, he noticed that the seat next to him was empty.
He asked the man on the other side of the empty seat whether anyone was sitting there.
"No," the man replied, "The seat is empty."
"This is incredible," said the first man.
"Who in their right mind would have a seat like this for the Super Bowl, the biggest sporting event in the world and not use it?"
The second man replied, "Well, actually, the seat belongs to me. I was supposed to come with my wife, but she passed away.
This will be the first Super bowl we haven't been together since we got married in 1967."
"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. That's terrible. But couldn't you find someone else -- a friend or relative, or even a neighbor to take the seat?"
The man shook his head. "No, they're all at the funeral."
The Brothel
The madam opened the brothel door in Las Vegas and saw a rather dignified, well-dressed, good-looking man in his late forties or early fifties.
"May I help you sir?" she asked.
The man replied, "I want to see Valerie."
"Sir, Valerie is one of our most expensive ladies. Perhaps you would prefer someone else" said the madam.
He replied, "No, I must see Valerie."
Just then, Valerie appeared and announced to the man she charged $5,000 a visit.
Without hesitation, the man pulled out five thousand dollars and gave it to Valerie, and they went upstairs.
After an hour, the man calmly left.
The next night, the man appeared again, once more demanding to see Valerie.
Valerie explained that no one had ever come back two nights in a row as she was too expensive.
"There are no discounts. The price is still $5,000."
Again, the man pulled out the money, gave it to Valerie, and they went upstairs.
After an hour, he left.
The following night the man was there yet again.
Everyone was astounded that he had come for a third consecutive night, but he paid Valerie and they went upstairs.
After their session, Valerie said to the man,
"No one has ever been with me three nights in a row." "Where are you from?"
The man replied, "Texas!"
"Really," she said. "I have family in Texas.”
"I know." the man said. "Your Great Aunt just died, and I am her attorney." "She asked me to give you your $15,000 inheritance."
The moral of this story is that three (3) things in life are certain:
1. Death
2. Taxes
AND
3. Being screwed by a lawyer!
PARAPROSDOKIANS
Are You Sharp?
THOROUGHLY UNDERSTAND EACH QUESTION PRIOR TO SELECTING YOUR RESPONSE. AND DON'T LAUGH AT BILL GATES AND HIS SCORE OF THREE JUST YET!!
This one is fun!!! Think carefully.Intelligence Test
You are going to hate yourself over this. It scores automatically, too.
Take this advice ... Be sure and think before you answer.
Click here: How Smart Are You?
SHOREBIRDS RAISE OVER $1,400 FOR UNITED WAY AT HOT STOVE BANQUET
New Line Scoreboard to be Installed at Perdue Stadium
Salisbury, Md. – The Delmarva Shorebirds, the class “A” affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, hosted a very successful 10th Annual Hot Stove Banquet on Jan. 30 at the Fountains Wedding & Conference Center. Through a silent auction that featured items such as a Matt Wieters autographed jersey and a Troy Polamalu signed picture, over $1,400 dollars were raised to benefit the United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore. The Shorebirds also collected over 200 food items to kick off the “Strike Out Hunger” campaign, the official initiative of the 2011 SAL All-Star Game, to be contested on June 21 at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.
One of the major announcements during the banquet came from 7th Inning Stretch, L.P. president Pat Filippone, who declared that Arthur W. Perdue Stadium will receive a significant upgrade in 2011. The Shorebirds will install a brand new Daktronics line scoreboard to replace the old one in left-center field. The board will feature all the traditional columns including: score by inning, runs, hits, errors and more. Installation of the scoreboard is expected to begin in the middle of February and be completed prior to opening day. The Shorebirds will post periodic updates of the installation process on our website, http://www.theshorebirds.com/.
“I’m so pleased with how the hot stove turned out on many fronts,” said general manager Chris Bitters. “The speakers were awesome, the funds raised for the United Way and “Strike Out Hunger” were phenomenal and everyone was excited about the new line scoreboard.”
The Hot Stove Banquet served as an excellent precursor for the 2011 season. The nearly 150 people in attendance enjoyed speeches by: 14-year MLB veteran Mike Bordick, 2011 Shorebirds manager Ryan Minor, 2011 Bowie BaySox manager Gary Kendall, Orioles Assistant Director of Player Development Tripp Norton, former Shorebirds pitching coach Dave Schuler and more. Fans also had a chance to get autographs from the guests and ask additional questions after the event finished.
In addition to the speeches, guests had the opportunity to bid on the nearly 30 items in the silent auction that ranged from signed baseballs to collectable items from other Minor League Baseball teams. All the proceeds from the auction were donated to the United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore. In addition, Kathleen Momme, the Executive Director of the United Way, was on hand to deliver a powerful message about the importance of the United Way.
All guests that contributed a canned food item to the “Strike Out Hunger” campaign received a free raffle ticket. The Shorebirds raffled off nearly 20 items such as: four tickets to opening day and paraphernalia from other minor league and major league teams. The “Strike Out Hunger” campaign will benefit the three local food banks along the Eastern Shore; Maryland Food Bank, Food Bank of Delaware & Foodbank on the Eastern Shore. To learn more about the campaign and how you can help, contact Shorebirds general manager Chris Bitters at 410-219-3112.
The Delmarva Shorebirds begin the 2011 season on April 5 with an exhibition game against Salisbury University at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. The Shorebirds open the South Atlantic League portion of their schedule on April 7 against the Greensboro Grasshoppers. Four ticket packages are currently available for the 2011 season and all include a ticket to the 2011 All-Star Game and the exhibition game against Salisbury University.
Dearest Redneck Son
I'm writing this slow because I know you can't read fast. We don't live where we did when you left home. Your dad read in the newspaper that most accidents happen within 20 miles of your home, so we moved. I won't be able to send you the address because the last West Virginia family that lived here took the house numbers when they moved so they wouldn't have to change their address.
This place is really nice. It even has a washing machine. I'm not sure about it. I put a load of clothes in and pulled the chain. We haven't seen them since. The weather isn't bad here. It only rained twice last week; the first time for three days and the second time for four days.
About that coat you wanted me to send; your Uncle Billy Bob said it would be too heavy to send in the mail with the buttons on, so we cut them off and put them in the pockets.
Bubba locked his keys in the car yesterday. We were really worried because it took him two hours to get me and your father out.
Your sister had a baby this morning, but I haven't found out what it is yet so I don't know if you are an aunt or uncle.
Uncle Bobby Ray fell into a whiskey vat last week. Some men tried to pull him out but he fought them off and drowned. We had him cremated, he burned for three days.
Three of your friends went off a bridge in a pickup truck. Butch was driving. He rolled down the window and swam to safety. Your other two friends were in the back. They drowned because they couldn't get the tailgate down!
There isn't much more news at this time. Nothing much out of the normal has happened.
Your Favorite Aunt,
Mom
This place is really nice. It even has a washing machine. I'm not sure about it. I put a load of clothes in and pulled the chain. We haven't seen them since. The weather isn't bad here. It only rained twice last week; the first time for three days and the second time for four days.
About that coat you wanted me to send; your Uncle Billy Bob said it would be too heavy to send in the mail with the buttons on, so we cut them off and put them in the pockets.
Bubba locked his keys in the car yesterday. We were really worried because it took him two hours to get me and your father out.
Your sister had a baby this morning, but I haven't found out what it is yet so I don't know if you are an aunt or uncle.
Uncle Bobby Ray fell into a whiskey vat last week. Some men tried to pull him out but he fought them off and drowned. We had him cremated, he burned for three days.
Three of your friends went off a bridge in a pickup truck. Butch was driving. He rolled down the window and swam to safety. Your other two friends were in the back. They drowned because they couldn't get the tailgate down!
There isn't much more news at this time. Nothing much out of the normal has happened.
Your Favorite Aunt,
Mom
OC FOP Takes The Plunge For Maryland Special Olympics
The event is held at Sandy Point State Park and had more than 10,000 plungers this year. Participants raised more than $2 million dollars for their efforts. The Ocean City FOP raised $1930 to donate toward this worthy cause.
FOP Public Relations Committee Chairman Dennis Eade commented that "the plunge is a wonderful event that the FOP enjoys taking part in each year." Eade continues "this is our second time and we look forward to many more."
Pictured from left to right: (Back Row) Dennis Eade, Greg Eastman, Vance Row, Andrew Yeager, Justin Hoban, Daniel Jacobs, Rich Currence, Al Custer (Front Row) Jim Runkles, Lee Arlington, Andrew Sprague, JP Zurla (Not Pictured) Joe Lotito and Josh Kelley
GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY TO TESTIFY BEFORE HOUSE COMMITTEE ON ‘MAKING IT IN AMERICA’
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley will testify before the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee at a hearing focusing on job creation, infrastructure investment, and “Making it in America.” The Governor was invited to testify by Minority Leader Pelosi and Minority Whip Hoyer to offer the unique perspective of a Governor on the importance of investing in our infrastructure, innovation, and other job-creating initiatives.
“Make it in America” is a legislative initiative led by House Democrats to revitalize manufacturing in America, create new good-paying jobs, and make our nation more secure. This effort builds on House Democratic actions since the start of the recession to create jobs and lay a strong new foundation for our new economy.
Also testifying at tomorrow’s hearing will be Mayor Michael Nutter from the City of Philadelphia, and representatives from the AFL-CIO, the American Road and Transportation Builders Association, and the Association of Civil Engineers.
The Lecture
An elderly man is stopped by the police around 1 a.m. and is asked where he is going at this time of night.
The man replies, “I am going to a lecture about alcohol abuse and the effects it has on the human body.”
The officer then asks, “Really? Who is giving that lecture at this time of night?”
The man replies, “My wife.”
The officer then asks, “Really? Who is giving that lecture at this time of night?”
The man replies, “My wife.”
Did Tariffs Really Cause The Civil War? The Morrill Act At 150
Did protective tariffs really bring about the Civil War? It's an argument that enthusiasts of the era are bound to encounter at some point, and also among the most contentious and least understood of the many debates surrounding the instigating causes of secession 150 years ago this month.
Sociologist James W. Loewen attempted to do as much in a recent article for the Washington Post proclaiming tariffs one of the "5 myths" of the Civil War (this article has since provoked a lively discussion on the history blogosphere with economist - and fellow Austrian School thinker - Thomas DiLorenzo offering a strong rebuttal, and Loewen answering at HNNby digging in and reiterating his original position with little more to answer its indicated faults). The gist of Loewen's claim appears in the Washington Post:
"[The Tariff Thesis is] flatly wrong. High tariffs had prompted the Nullification Crisis in 1831-33, when, after South Carolina demanded the right to nullify federal laws or secede in protest, President Andrew Jackson threatened force. No state joined the movement, and South Carolina backed down. Tariffs were not an issue in 1860, and Southern states said nothing about them. Why would they? Southerners had written the tariff of 1857, under which the nation was functioning. Its rates were lower than at any point since 1816."
GO HERE to read more.
FEBRUARY IS CHILDREN'S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH
Salisbury, MD. Did you know that tooth decay (cavities) is the most common chronic disease found in children? It is five times as common as asthma and seven times as common as hay fever. Each year, more than 51 million school hours are lost due to dental problems. Untreated, tooth decay causes pain and infections that may lead to problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning. Fortunately, with good oral health care habits, tooth decay can be prevented.
It is important for parents to teach their children good dental health care habits, including proper brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing techniques, eating nutritious foods without sugar, and having regular visits to the dentist, said Dr. Gary Womer, Clinical Director of the Village Dental Center at Wicomico County Health Department. Steps such as these will help ensure that children will have a healthy mouth, as well as a healthy body. Since children learn oral health care from their parents, it is important that parents serve as role models and practice good oral health care habits.Parents should supervise brushing until children are seven to eight years old.
During the month of February, Village Dental Center staff will be visiting elementary schools in Wicomico County to offer free dental screening, fluoride varnish application and education. Children can also discover the power of a healthy smile with MouthPower® Online, an entertaining and innovative Web site sponsored by the National Museum of Dentistry and the American Dental Association. Children can explore Mouthies interactive online laboratory to learn how to keep their smiles sparkling. They can learn how to brush and floss, make healthy food choices, and steer clear of the pitfalls of tobacco. After completing the program, children can download a personalized certificate. The program is available in English and Spanish at http://www.mouthpower.org./
It is important for parents to teach their children good dental health care habits, including proper brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing techniques, eating nutritious foods without sugar, and having regular visits to the dentist, said Dr. Gary Womer, Clinical Director of the Village Dental Center at Wicomico County Health Department. Steps such as these will help ensure that children will have a healthy mouth, as well as a healthy body. Since children learn oral health care from their parents, it is important that parents serve as role models and practice good oral health care habits.Parents should supervise brushing until children are seven to eight years old.
During the month of February, Village Dental Center staff will be visiting elementary schools in Wicomico County to offer free dental screening, fluoride varnish application and education. Children can also discover the power of a healthy smile with MouthPower® Online, an entertaining and innovative Web site sponsored by the National Museum of Dentistry and the American Dental Association. Children can explore Mouthies interactive online laboratory to learn how to keep their smiles sparkling. They can learn how to brush and floss, make healthy food choices, and steer clear of the pitfalls of tobacco. After completing the program, children can download a personalized certificate. The program is available in English and Spanish at http://www.mouthpower.org./
Children can also test their dental knowledge by playing the "Million Dollar Smile" and "Dental Jeopardy" games by visiting the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's Office of Oral Health website at http://dhmh.maryland.gov/ clicking on Children's Dental Health Month under 'Hot Topics.' For more information about the free screening program or to schedule a dental appointment for your child, please contact the Village Dental Center at 410-334-3401.
Tips for Preventing Tooth Decay in Children
-Schedule a child's first dental visit when his or her first tooth appears, or by the first birthday.-Provide children with healthy snacks such as fruits and vegetables and avoid sugary foods and drinks. Give them water to drink between meals.-Have your child brush with toothpaste that has fluoride at least twice a day for two minutes. Children need brushing supervision until seven to eight years of age.-Ask your children's dentist about the need for fluoride treatment.-Check with your local health department or water board or have your water tested to determine the amount of fluoride in your water. If it is too low to prevent tooth decay, ask your dentist or physician about fluoride supplements.-Ask about dental sealants when your child's permanent teeth come in.
Tips for Preventing Tooth Decay in Children
-Schedule a child's first dental visit when his or her first tooth appears, or by the first birthday.-Provide children with healthy snacks such as fruits and vegetables and avoid sugary foods and drinks. Give them water to drink between meals.-Have your child brush with toothpaste that has fluoride at least twice a day for two minutes. Children need brushing supervision until seven to eight years of age.-Ask your children's dentist about the need for fluoride treatment.-Check with your local health department or water board or have your water tested to determine the amount of fluoride in your water. If it is too low to prevent tooth decay, ask your dentist or physician about fluoride supplements.-Ask about dental sealants when your child's permanent teeth come in.