Twenty-four hours after Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak said the Egyptian upheaval had no military connotations for Israel, the Iranian frigate Alvand and cruiser Kharg transited the Suez Canal on their way to Syria Wednesday night, Feb. 16. Their passage was termed "a provocation" by Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman.
In Beirut, Hizballah leader Hassan Nasrallah said he was looking forward to Israel going to war on Lebanon because then his men would capture Galilee.
Israel was closely monitoring the Iranian flotilla, whose visit to the Saudi Red Sea port of Jeddah on Feb. 6 was first revealed exclusively by DEBKA-Net-Weekly 481 on February 10.
Up until now, Saudi Arabia, in close conjunction with Egypt and its President Hosni Mubarak, led the Sunni Arab thrust to contain Iranian expansion – especially in the Persian Gulf. However, the opening of a Saudi port to war ships of the Islamic Republic of Iran for the first time in the history of their relations points to a fundamental shift in Middle East trends in consequence of the Egyptian uprising. It was also the first time Cairo has permitted Iranian warships to transit Suez from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean, although Israeli traffic in the opposite direction had been allowed.
Iran made no secret of its plans to expand its naval and military presence beyond the Persian Gulf and Red Sea to the Mediterranean via Suez: On February 2, Iran's Deputy Navy Commander Rear Admiral Gholam-Reza Khadem Biqam announced the flotilla's mission was to "enter the waters of the Red Sea and then be dispatched to the Mediterranean Sea."
However, Israeli military intelligence which failed to foresee the Egyptian upheaval, and its policy-makers, ignored the Iranian admiral's announcement and its strategic import, just as they failed to heed the significance of the Iranian flotilla's docking in Jeddah.
Debkafile's military sources report that Iran is rapidly seizing the fall of the Mubarak regime in Cairo and the Saudi King Abdullah's falling-out with President Barack Obama (see debkafile of Feb. 10, 2011) as an opportunity not to be missed for establishing a foothold along the Suez Canal and access to the Mediterranean for six gains:
Read more here
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Friday, February 18, 2011
Protests In Libya, Yemen, Bahrain
The mass protests sweeping the Arab world continued Friday with demonstrations in Yemen, Libya and Bahrain. In the latter two countries thousands took to the streets to mourn protesters killed in clashes with police earlier in the week.
Twenty-four people were killed in clashes with security forces in Libya over the past three days. In Bahrain, five people were killed in a brutal attack Thursday on protesters in the capital city of Manama.
Bahraini leaders have accused the Lebanese terrorist group Hizbullah, a Shi'ite Muslim group, of encouraging riots in their country. Officials said that Hizbullah flags were found at the Manama rally, along with weapons and ammunition.
In Yemen, demonstrators have used social media to call for a “Day of Rage.” Thousands of pro-government protesters took to the streets Friday in preparation. Three demonstrators have been killed in the country so far.
Protesters in each country are demanding the resignation of their leaders and their replacement in democratic elections. Yemen's President Ali Abdullah Saleh has been in power for 32 years. Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi has been in power for more than 40 years.
More from INN
Twenty-four people were killed in clashes with security forces in Libya over the past three days. In Bahrain, five people were killed in a brutal attack Thursday on protesters in the capital city of Manama.
Bahraini leaders have accused the Lebanese terrorist group Hizbullah, a Shi'ite Muslim group, of encouraging riots in their country. Officials said that Hizbullah flags were found at the Manama rally, along with weapons and ammunition.
In Yemen, demonstrators have used social media to call for a “Day of Rage.” Thousands of pro-government protesters took to the streets Friday in preparation. Three demonstrators have been killed in the country so far.
Protesters in each country are demanding the resignation of their leaders and their replacement in democratic elections. Yemen's President Ali Abdullah Saleh has been in power for 32 years. Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi has been in power for more than 40 years.
More from INN
Illegal Immigration Declining, But Not From Terrorist Countries
On Jan. 25, Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano gave a talk at the University of Texas at El Paso in which she touted the Obama administration‘s success at protecting the southwestern border. “Illegal immigration is decreasing, deportations are increasing, and crime rates have gone down,” she claimed. Recently, shocking developments have highlighted the need for a refocused immigration debate that places national security and identification of current illegal aliens above any discussions of legalizing America’s current population of illegal aliens.
Three days after Ms. Napolitano spoke, the U.S. Border Patrol captured Said Jaziri, a radical Islamic cleric, hidden in the trunk of a car 50 miles east of San Diego. Mr. Jaziri, one of the imams who had called for the death of the Danish cartoonist behind the drawings of the Prophet Muhammad, purportedly paid a Mexican human-trafficking cartel $5,000 to smuggle him into the country. The court set his bail at $25,000. There is little to prevent him from posting bail and disappearing into the countryside, where he most certainly will find refuge among sympathetic supporters.
Mr. Jaziri‘s capture is merely the latest in a long string of other-than-Mexican (OTM) arrests going back several years. A couple of days before the imam’s capture, Border Patrol officers found a discarded Iranian book of martyrdom along a well-known smuggling route. For all of the so-called martyrs, the book provided biographies, letters addressed to their families, and, in some cases, their last wills and testaments. Though U.S. officials do not know who discarded the book or when, we do know that it is the latest example of radical Islamist paraphernalia that has been found along the border.
Department of Homeland Security statistics confirm that hundreds of OTMs are apprehended each year. An independent analysis of department data shows that the problem of OTM apprehensions on the southwestern border has been growing at an alarming rate. While overall apprehensions at the Mexican border have declined dramatically - 67 percent - from 2000 to 2009, apprehensions of OTMs have not declined. In fact, apprehensions of OTMs and special-interest aliens - those migrants who originate in countries that are known to sponsor terror - have jumped during the same period - 58 percent and 67 percent, respectively.
It is unknown how many illegal aliens evade capture by the Border Patrol. According to 2006 federal law enforcement estimates, just 10 percent to 30 percent of all migrants crossing the border are apprehended. What is more worrying, however, is that OTMs - especially those with ulterior motives like Mr. Jaziri or those sponsored by an outside organization - are vastly more likely to have the resources to employ the most expensive human-smuggling organizations that use the routes where capture is the least likely. Therefore, it is safe to assume that an even lower percentage of OTMs are captured than what is reflected by the federal law enforcement estimates. This raises the essential question: How many radicals like Said Jaziri have been able to avoid apprehension successfully and infiltrate the country?
More here
Three days after Ms. Napolitano spoke, the U.S. Border Patrol captured Said Jaziri, a radical Islamic cleric, hidden in the trunk of a car 50 miles east of San Diego. Mr. Jaziri, one of the imams who had called for the death of the Danish cartoonist behind the drawings of the Prophet Muhammad, purportedly paid a Mexican human-trafficking cartel $5,000 to smuggle him into the country. The court set his bail at $25,000. There is little to prevent him from posting bail and disappearing into the countryside, where he most certainly will find refuge among sympathetic supporters.
Mr. Jaziri‘s capture is merely the latest in a long string of other-than-Mexican (OTM) arrests going back several years. A couple of days before the imam’s capture, Border Patrol officers found a discarded Iranian book of martyrdom along a well-known smuggling route. For all of the so-called martyrs, the book provided biographies, letters addressed to their families, and, in some cases, their last wills and testaments. Though U.S. officials do not know who discarded the book or when, we do know that it is the latest example of radical Islamist paraphernalia that has been found along the border.
Department of Homeland Security statistics confirm that hundreds of OTMs are apprehended each year. An independent analysis of department data shows that the problem of OTM apprehensions on the southwestern border has been growing at an alarming rate. While overall apprehensions at the Mexican border have declined dramatically - 67 percent - from 2000 to 2009, apprehensions of OTMs have not declined. In fact, apprehensions of OTMs and special-interest aliens - those migrants who originate in countries that are known to sponsor terror - have jumped during the same period - 58 percent and 67 percent, respectively.
It is unknown how many illegal aliens evade capture by the Border Patrol. According to 2006 federal law enforcement estimates, just 10 percent to 30 percent of all migrants crossing the border are apprehended. What is more worrying, however, is that OTMs - especially those with ulterior motives like Mr. Jaziri or those sponsored by an outside organization - are vastly more likely to have the resources to employ the most expensive human-smuggling organizations that use the routes where capture is the least likely. Therefore, it is safe to assume that an even lower percentage of OTMs are captured than what is reflected by the federal law enforcement estimates. This raises the essential question: How many radicals like Said Jaziri have been able to avoid apprehension successfully and infiltrate the country?
More here
Wis. Governor: GOP Won't Be 'Bullied' By Union Bill Protesters
Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) says his party has been emboldened by massive protests against his controversial budget plan.
Walker said demonstrators who filled the state capitol building in Madison and the boycott by state Senate Democrats — some of whom fled the state in protest — have steeled the resolve of members of his party.
"If anything, I think it's made the Republicans in the Assembly and the Senate stronger," he told Fox News's Greta Van Susteren in an interview Thursday night. "They're not going to be bullied. They're not going to be intimidated."
Walker also fired back at President Obama, who sided with the public employees, saying on Fox News Friday, "We are focused on balancing our budget. It would be wise for the government and others in Washington to focus on balancing their budgets, which they are a long way off from doing."
The unrest in Wisconsin has attracted attention from national lawmakers and political figures, who have incorporated the state's tussle over Walker's budget proposal into the debate over the federal government's fiscal woes.
Public-sector workers are upset with the plan, which calls on them to pay to receive pension and health benefits and removes collective bargaining rights for some.
House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) issued a statement backing Walker's proposal, saying governors like Walker "are daring to speak the truth about the dire fiscal challenges Americans face at all levels of government, and daring to commit themselves to solutions that will liberate our economy and help put our citizens on a path to prosperity."
AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, meanwhile, has called the plan an "assault" on the middle class and compared Walker's plan to drastic cuts House Republicans in Washington want to make.
More here
Walker said demonstrators who filled the state capitol building in Madison and the boycott by state Senate Democrats — some of whom fled the state in protest — have steeled the resolve of members of his party.
"If anything, I think it's made the Republicans in the Assembly and the Senate stronger," he told Fox News's Greta Van Susteren in an interview Thursday night. "They're not going to be bullied. They're not going to be intimidated."
Walker also fired back at President Obama, who sided with the public employees, saying on Fox News Friday, "We are focused on balancing our budget. It would be wise for the government and others in Washington to focus on balancing their budgets, which they are a long way off from doing."
The unrest in Wisconsin has attracted attention from national lawmakers and political figures, who have incorporated the state's tussle over Walker's budget proposal into the debate over the federal government's fiscal woes.
Public-sector workers are upset with the plan, which calls on them to pay to receive pension and health benefits and removes collective bargaining rights for some.
House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) issued a statement backing Walker's proposal, saying governors like Walker "are daring to speak the truth about the dire fiscal challenges Americans face at all levels of government, and daring to commit themselves to solutions that will liberate our economy and help put our citizens on a path to prosperity."
AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, meanwhile, has called the plan an "assault" on the middle class and compared Walker's plan to drastic cuts House Republicans in Washington want to make.
More here
GOVERNOR O’MALLEY, US TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY LAHOOD TO HOST OFFICIAL ICC RIBBON CUTTING
ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 18, 2011) – Governor Martin O’Malley, Lt. Governor Anthony Brown and US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood will host the ceremonial opening of the first segment of Maryland’s Intercounty Connector (ICC)/MD 200 on Monday at 11:00 a.m. The ICC is an east-west highway connecting Montgomery and Prince George’s counties in the Washington, D.C., suburbs and the State’s first all-electronic toll road.
More than 500 guests are expected to attend this historic event. Representatives from Montgomery County and Prince George’s County will be attending.
The event location will be accessed via I-370 to eastbound ICC/MD 200 and will take place rain or shine. Risers will be available for photographers and videographers.
Last Nights Contest Winner Is.............
Robyn lynn Brown
Robyn, Congratulations! You can pick up your pair of tickts at the Will Call Window at the Civic Center this evening before the fight. ALL other ticket winners can do the same.
ALL ticket winners have been called into the Box Office. Thanks for participating and enjoy the fight.
As Certain As Death And Taxes And, Well, Death Taxes
With governments scrambling to cover deficits here's some of their most outrageous new taxes
If you needed any more proof that our state, local and federal budget spending is out of control, here it is. In an effort to get out from under record deficits and support their spending habits, politicians from Seattle to New York and everywhere in between have cooked up some outrageous taxes.
Some of these taxes are already on the books, some are just up for debate, but all show you just how far politicians will go to put a little more of your money in their pockets.
Sin tax
Let's start with so-called "sin taxes," which have always been popular with politicians. Taxing items seen as vices — such as smoking, drinking and gambling — is seen as an easy way to raise tax revenue. But the definition of "sin" seems to be expanding ...
Let's start with so-called "sin taxes," which have always been popular with politicians. Taxing items seen as vices — such as smoking, drinking and gambling — is seen as an easy way to raise tax revenue. But the definition of "sin" seems to be expanding ...
Card tax
Here's proof that some politicians are a few cards short of a full deck. Anyone who purchases a deck of cards in the state of Alabama must pay a "card tax" of 10 cents. However, the law claims that the tax must be levied on the purchase of any deck containing "no more than 54 cards" so if you are lucky enough to find a deck with 55 cards, you're home free! Really, how much money can this possibly raise?
Here's proof that some politicians are a few cards short of a full deck. Anyone who purchases a deck of cards in the state of Alabama must pay a "card tax" of 10 cents. However, the law claims that the tax must be levied on the purchase of any deck containing "no more than 54 cards" so if you are lucky enough to find a deck with 55 cards, you're home free! Really, how much money can this possibly raise?
Nudity tax In Utah, any businesses where "nude or partially nude individuals perform any service" have to pay a 10 percent sales and use tax. This tax is applied to all revenue from admission fees as well as merchandise, food, drink and "services" sales.
Praise Our First Amendment Rights
Thank goodness for our federal judiciary. Thanks to the now-less-than-conservative 4th Circuit Court of Appeals (courtesy of Barack Hussein Obama), we now have a constitutional right to have liquor served to us while watching naked dancers.
Our children can’t pray in school. Unborn children can be murdered. Don’t be shocked when they government attempts to force churches to perform gay weddings.
But … Don’t worry. Be happy. Head down to your local strip joint and knock back a few. It’s your right.
Saying Goodbye To Incandescent Lamps?
Twenty-nine U.S. Senators have signed on to burn, not ban, incandescent light bulbs. Senators Jim DeMint (R-SC) and Mike Enzi (R-WY) have 27-co-sponsors for the BULB, "Better Use of Light Bulbs", act which overturns repeal standards in the 2007 energy law that effectively bans traditional incandescent light bulbs starting in 2012.
Better Pay Your Taxes, If You Want Your Job
If you have been looking for another reason to pay your taxes on time, here's one: your job status could depend on it. Senator Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) has reintroduced a bill that would fire federal employees who neglect to pay their taxes. A 2010 study by the IRS, found executive branch employees owed approximately $1 billion in back taxes while Capitol Hill staffers owed over $9 million.
Funding Bill
Lawmakers in the House agreed to pare down debate on amendments in the GOPs spending bill so the continuing resolution can pass today and be sent to the Senate. Congress is not in session next week, recessing for the President's Day holiday, so lawmakers will only have a few days after they return to pass the funding bill before the current CR expires on March 4th. Politico reports House speaker John Boehner is standing firm behind the proposed $61-billion in cuts for the remainder of 2011. Boehner told reporters if the Senate does not pass the CR, the GOP controlled House will not continue to fund the government at current spending levels. Likewise President Obama has threatened to veto the bill if it contained certain cuts. The bill is not expected to win approval in the Democratically controlled Senate.
Lessons From Egypt
Victory of non-violent Egyptian protestors a grave blow to al-Qaeda, Global Jihad
The revolution in Egypt was not prompted by the economy. The Egyptian economy’s state improved in the past decade, poverty declined, and the number of workers in the agricultural sector went down.
The unemployment rate of young Egyptians indeed frustrated them and pushed them to the streets, yet there was one fundamental motive for the uprising: A sense that the leadership is detached from the public, doesn’t listen to it, and doesn’t engage in any dialogue with it; a leadership that is withdrawn and is far removed from the problems faced by the middle class, and especially its lower end.
The first lesson of the Egyptian uprising is that the absence of dialogue with the public ultimately brings down rulers, including the most powerful ones. There’s no obligation to agree to the demands, which are sometimes odd, that emerge from the public squares, including the ones online. Yet the rulers must listen to them, with attentive ears and an open mind.
The second lesson of the uprising is that non-violence pays off. The leaders of the protest in Cairo adopted, either openly or covertly, the non-violent struggle doctrine developed by American thinker Gene Sharp. Back in the 1970s, Dr. Sharp started to formulate practical rules for toppling dictators using non-violent means. He later founded the Albert Einstein Institute, which operates out of a small Boston apartment yet affects protest movements worldwide.
The victory of non-violent uprising in Tunisia and Egypt is not only a stable basis for future democracy; it also constitutes a grave blow for al-Qaeda and Global Jihad groups that raise the banner of violent holy war. As it turned out, no regime is immune to non-violent masses.
The third lesson from Egypt is that the shift from banning freedom of speech and assembly to fully allowing them can take place in one day. The old regime is going home, the ruler is heading to exile, people stop fearing, censorship crumbles, and the normal democratic bargaining begins. The ease with which the walls of political prisons crumbled (20 days of protests were enough!) proves how weak they were.
Democracy functions immediately upon its establishment, and the next revolutions will therefore take root in the Middle East shortly. The rulers in Syria, Libya, Morocco, Iran and Sudan have already realized that the process is irreversible. They are completing the preparation of their escape routes.
However, the quick path to democracy is not the quick path to socioeconomic prosperity.
Read more
The revolution in Egypt was not prompted by the economy. The Egyptian economy’s state improved in the past decade, poverty declined, and the number of workers in the agricultural sector went down.
The unemployment rate of young Egyptians indeed frustrated them and pushed them to the streets, yet there was one fundamental motive for the uprising: A sense that the leadership is detached from the public, doesn’t listen to it, and doesn’t engage in any dialogue with it; a leadership that is withdrawn and is far removed from the problems faced by the middle class, and especially its lower end.
The first lesson of the Egyptian uprising is that the absence of dialogue with the public ultimately brings down rulers, including the most powerful ones. There’s no obligation to agree to the demands, which are sometimes odd, that emerge from the public squares, including the ones online. Yet the rulers must listen to them, with attentive ears and an open mind.
The second lesson of the uprising is that non-violence pays off. The leaders of the protest in Cairo adopted, either openly or covertly, the non-violent struggle doctrine developed by American thinker Gene Sharp. Back in the 1970s, Dr. Sharp started to formulate practical rules for toppling dictators using non-violent means. He later founded the Albert Einstein Institute, which operates out of a small Boston apartment yet affects protest movements worldwide.
The victory of non-violent uprising in Tunisia and Egypt is not only a stable basis for future democracy; it also constitutes a grave blow for al-Qaeda and Global Jihad groups that raise the banner of violent holy war. As it turned out, no regime is immune to non-violent masses.
The third lesson from Egypt is that the shift from banning freedom of speech and assembly to fully allowing them can take place in one day. The old regime is going home, the ruler is heading to exile, people stop fearing, censorship crumbles, and the normal democratic bargaining begins. The ease with which the walls of political prisons crumbled (20 days of protests were enough!) proves how weak they were.
Democracy functions immediately upon its establishment, and the next revolutions will therefore take root in the Middle East shortly. The rulers in Syria, Libya, Morocco, Iran and Sudan have already realized that the process is irreversible. They are completing the preparation of their escape routes.
However, the quick path to democracy is not the quick path to socioeconomic prosperity.
Read more
Defense Contractors Aid Congressman’s Charity
Some of the nation’s top defense contractors have helped sponsor an annual congressional charity tennis tournament in the nation’s capital that is a pet project of Rep. Norm Dicks, senior Democrat on the House Appropriations defense subcommittee.
The Washington state lawmaker is an avid tennis player and helped create the tournament, in which corporate sponsors and invited members of Congress can play tennis with professional tennis legends while raising money for charity.
Northrop Grumman Corp., the country’s second-largest defense contractor, spent $25,000 as one of two top sponsors of the 2010 tournament in September, which it said was to honor Mr. Dicks, according to House lobbying records. General Dynamics Corp., the nation’s No. 5 defense contractor, was the other top sponsor, but a company spokesman declined to specify how much money it gave.
Both firms have given previously to the annual event, with General Dynamics’ donations dating back to 2006, according to the spokesman.
At the time of the 2010 tournament, Mr. Dicks was chairman of the powerful House Appropriations defense subcommittee, which oversees billions of dollars in funding for the Defense Department, including the Army, Navy and Air Force, and the CIA.
Other top defense firms that have given to the tournament through the years include Lockheed Martin Corp., the No. 1 defense contractor, and Boeing Co., No. 3. Other donors include the Science Applications International Corp. (SAIC), No. 7, as well as the PMA Group, a now defunct lobbying firm whose owner, former superlobbyist Paul Magliocchetti, was sentenced in January to 27 months in prison on his guilty plea of making hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal campaign contributions.
More
The Washington state lawmaker is an avid tennis player and helped create the tournament, in which corporate sponsors and invited members of Congress can play tennis with professional tennis legends while raising money for charity.
Northrop Grumman Corp., the country’s second-largest defense contractor, spent $25,000 as one of two top sponsors of the 2010 tournament in September, which it said was to honor Mr. Dicks, according to House lobbying records. General Dynamics Corp., the nation’s No. 5 defense contractor, was the other top sponsor, but a company spokesman declined to specify how much money it gave.
Both firms have given previously to the annual event, with General Dynamics’ donations dating back to 2006, according to the spokesman.
At the time of the 2010 tournament, Mr. Dicks was chairman of the powerful House Appropriations defense subcommittee, which oversees billions of dollars in funding for the Defense Department, including the Army, Navy and Air Force, and the CIA.
Other top defense firms that have given to the tournament through the years include Lockheed Martin Corp., the No. 1 defense contractor, and Boeing Co., No. 3. Other donors include the Science Applications International Corp. (SAIC), No. 7, as well as the PMA Group, a now defunct lobbying firm whose owner, former superlobbyist Paul Magliocchetti, was sentenced in January to 27 months in prison on his guilty plea of making hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal campaign contributions.
More
Obama Administration Urges Restraint In Bahrain
The Obama administration expressed alarm over a violent crackdown on anti-government protesters in key US ally Bahrain on Thursday as a wave of political upheaval moved across the Middle East.
And Defense Secretary Robert Gates urged governments in the region to move quickly on long-needed political and economic reforms.
Gates and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton spoke with their counterparts in Bahrain, the longtime home to the US Navy's 5th Fleet and an anchor of US defense strategy in the Mideast.
The outreach came as political unrest that toppled US-backed leaders in Tunisia and Egypt spread to the Persian Gulf and beyond.
Clinton, speaking to reporters after a closed-door briefing with senators, said she was redirecting $150 million in aid money to Egypt "to put ourselves in a position to support the transition there and assist with their economic recovery."
She said senior State Department and White house officials would travel to Egypt next week "to consult on how we can most effectively deploy our assistance."
More here
And Defense Secretary Robert Gates urged governments in the region to move quickly on long-needed political and economic reforms.
Gates and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton spoke with their counterparts in Bahrain, the longtime home to the US Navy's 5th Fleet and an anchor of US defense strategy in the Mideast.
The outreach came as political unrest that toppled US-backed leaders in Tunisia and Egypt spread to the Persian Gulf and beyond.
Clinton, speaking to reporters after a closed-door briefing with senators, said she was redirecting $150 million in aid money to Egypt "to put ourselves in a position to support the transition there and assist with their economic recovery."
She said senior State Department and White house officials would travel to Egypt next week "to consult on how we can most effectively deploy our assistance."
More here
Offended Mubarak Refuses Call From Obama
Former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak refused to respond to telephone calls from US President Barack Obama becase he still felt offended by Obama's statement in which he called on Mubarak "to step down immediately," London-based Arabic language daily Al-Quds Al-Arabi reported on Thursday.
Mubarak, still living in "presidential style" in Sharm el-Sheikh, according to the report, refused an invitation from Saudi King Abdullah to come to the kingdom, telling him he preferred to die on Egyptian soil.
JPost
Mubarak, still living in "presidential style" in Sharm el-Sheikh, according to the report, refused an invitation from Saudi King Abdullah to come to the kingdom, telling him he preferred to die on Egyptian soil.
JPost
Group Targets Speaker Boehner At Home
When did demonstrating at the private homes of politicians or corporate executives become an acceptable way to voice one’s political opinions?
Nearly two dozen activists from DC Vote swarmed House Speaker John Boehner’s Capitol Hill residence at 7:30 Thursday morning, chanting “Don’t tread of D.C.” and “No taxation without representation” to protest congressional “meddling” in the District’s local affairs, in particular a House continuing budget resolution that would cut $80 million in federal payments and prohibit the city from using local funds to pay for needle exchange programs and abortions.
“Speaker Boehner is coming to our home telling us how to spend our money,” Ilir Zherka, the group’s executive director, told his followers. “We decided to come to his house to tell him to leave D.C. alone.”
After Capitol Police officers blocked their way by using bikes to erect a makeshift barricade, the protestors remained outside Boehner’s home for more than an hour.
This is the same tactic used last month by protestors who don’t want Wal-Mart to open a new store in D.C.
Such protests terrify people who have nothing to do with the issue, such as children and neighbors. And because assembling a mob in front of a person’s private residence is an inherently threatening action. It’s also unnecessary, as there are many public areas in D.C. where such demonstrations are allowed.
And it’s not just Republicans and Big Business executives who are being targeted for unwelcome house calls.
Last May, 500 screaming, placard-waving members of the Service Employees International Union descended on the home of Greg Baer, deputy general counsel for corporate law at Bank of America, and stood on his front porch to protest foreclosures, terrifying Baer’s 14-year-old son, who was home alone at the time. As Baer’s next-door neighbor, Fortune Magazine’s Nina Easton, pointed out, Baer is a lifelong Democrat who had worked for the Clinton Treasury Department. His wife, Shirley Sagawa, is a former adviser to Hillary Clinton.
Somebody better tell these yahoos that private homes are off-limits, and to stop making it personal.
Read more
Nearly two dozen activists from DC Vote swarmed House Speaker John Boehner’s Capitol Hill residence at 7:30 Thursday morning, chanting “Don’t tread of D.C.” and “No taxation without representation” to protest congressional “meddling” in the District’s local affairs, in particular a House continuing budget resolution that would cut $80 million in federal payments and prohibit the city from using local funds to pay for needle exchange programs and abortions.
“Speaker Boehner is coming to our home telling us how to spend our money,” Ilir Zherka, the group’s executive director, told his followers. “We decided to come to his house to tell him to leave D.C. alone.”
After Capitol Police officers blocked their way by using bikes to erect a makeshift barricade, the protestors remained outside Boehner’s home for more than an hour.
This is the same tactic used last month by protestors who don’t want Wal-Mart to open a new store in D.C.
Such protests terrify people who have nothing to do with the issue, such as children and neighbors. And because assembling a mob in front of a person’s private residence is an inherently threatening action. It’s also unnecessary, as there are many public areas in D.C. where such demonstrations are allowed.
And it’s not just Republicans and Big Business executives who are being targeted for unwelcome house calls.
Last May, 500 screaming, placard-waving members of the Service Employees International Union descended on the home of Greg Baer, deputy general counsel for corporate law at Bank of America, and stood on his front porch to protest foreclosures, terrifying Baer’s 14-year-old son, who was home alone at the time. As Baer’s next-door neighbor, Fortune Magazine’s Nina Easton, pointed out, Baer is a lifelong Democrat who had worked for the Clinton Treasury Department. His wife, Shirley Sagawa, is a former adviser to Hillary Clinton.
Somebody better tell these yahoos that private homes are off-limits, and to stop making it personal.
Read more
Herman Cain: Dems Frantic As Blacks Flee 'Plantation'
Herman Cain, a former corporate executive and CEO who still serves on the board of directors for several companies with billion-dollar-plus annual revenue, recently was targeted for attack by the web-based AlterNet, which accused him of a "race minstrelsy" performance at the recent Conservative Political Action Conference meetings in Washington.
"Herman Cain's shtick is a version of race minstrelsy where he performs 'authentic negritude' as wish fulfillment for White Conservative fantasies," said the column by Chauncey DeVega. "Cain in his designated role as black Conservative mascot, absolves the White racial reactionaries at CPAC of their sins."
But Cain, a former radio talk show host and now a columnist at WND.com, told Erick Erickson on his WSB 750 AM radio program that the commentator's words mean nothing.
"I've talked a lot about how liberals have only three tactics: shift the subject, ignore the facts and name-call," he said.
"I've been called 'Uncle Tom,' 'sellout,' 'shameless' but this is a new one. And they had to really dig deep into the name-calling barrel to come up with saying something about being a black minstrel entertaining white conservatives," he said.
"But in the vernacular of my grandfather, I does not care," he said.
The AlterNet attack had accused Cain of doing nothing more than "entertain and perform" for the "white conservative masters."
"They must really be afraid that I might get the Republican nomination," Cain said. "Because the last thing they want to do is to have a black conservative running against their black liberal president.
Read more here
Boehner Wades Into Wisconsin Labor Battle
House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) stepped into the heated labor debate in Wisconsin on Thursday, backing GOP Gov. Scott Walker's proposed reforms to collective bargaining rights.
Boehner released a statement on Thursday afternoon backing Walker and his package of aggressive labor reforms that would force increased contributions by state workers to benefits and pension plans, and limit collective bargaining rights for some.
“Republicans in Congress — and reform-minded GOP governors like Scott Walker, John Kasich and Chris Christie — are daring to speak the truth about the dire fiscal challenges Americans face at all levels of government, and daring to commit themselves to solutions that will liberate our economy and help put our citizens on a path to prosperity," Boehner said in a statement. "I’m disappointed that instead of providing similar leadership from the White House, the president has chosen to attack leaders such as Gov. Walker, who are listening to the people and confronting problems that have been neglected for years at the expense of jobs and economic growth."
The GOP Speaker referred specifically to an interview President Obama gave on Wednesday to Milwaukee television, in which he called the new law an "assault on unions." What's more, the Wisconsin chapter of the president's political arm within the Democratic National Committee (DNC), worked to promote rallies against the new law.
Boehner called on Obama to have the DNC stand down in Wisconsin.
"The White House has even unleashed the Democratic National Committee to spread disinformation and confusion in Wisconsin regarding the governor’s courageous actions," he said. "I urge the president to order the DNC to suspend these tactics."
More here
Boehner released a statement on Thursday afternoon backing Walker and his package of aggressive labor reforms that would force increased contributions by state workers to benefits and pension plans, and limit collective bargaining rights for some.
“Republicans in Congress — and reform-minded GOP governors like Scott Walker, John Kasich and Chris Christie — are daring to speak the truth about the dire fiscal challenges Americans face at all levels of government, and daring to commit themselves to solutions that will liberate our economy and help put our citizens on a path to prosperity," Boehner said in a statement. "I’m disappointed that instead of providing similar leadership from the White House, the president has chosen to attack leaders such as Gov. Walker, who are listening to the people and confronting problems that have been neglected for years at the expense of jobs and economic growth."
The GOP Speaker referred specifically to an interview President Obama gave on Wednesday to Milwaukee television, in which he called the new law an "assault on unions." What's more, the Wisconsin chapter of the president's political arm within the Democratic National Committee (DNC), worked to promote rallies against the new law.
Boehner called on Obama to have the DNC stand down in Wisconsin.
"The White House has even unleashed the Democratic National Committee to spread disinformation and confusion in Wisconsin regarding the governor’s courageous actions," he said. "I urge the president to order the DNC to suspend these tactics."
More here
Space Station - Very Informative
Look at what happened from 1998 until 2008. In just ten years it has grown and grown. Watch the pieces come together as they are sent up from Earth. This is the International Space Station (ISS) Assembly diagram, piece by piece. I had no idea the Space Station had grown to this size. This is really cool.....
Maryland SB 316
SB 316 - Property Tax - Charter Counties - Education Funding - Senator Madaleno
Senate: Budget and Taxation, 3 West Miller at 1pm
This bill allows a county council in a charter county to set a property tax rate that is higher than the rate authorized under the county’s charter or collect more property tax revenues than the revenues authorized under the charter in order to fully fund the approved budget of the county Board of Education. Charter counties in Maryland include: Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Dorchester, Harford, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George's, Talbot and Wicomico. Cecil County will have Charter government in 2012.
Virginia Democrats Want a “Taj Majal”
I guess Virginia Senate Dems forgot that 2011 was an election year for them:
While services are being cut and needed infrastructure improvements are being postponed, do Virginia senators REALLY need a $300 million monument to their hubris?
Hopefully Virginia voters will vote out the slim Democrat majority in the senate and restore a little fiscal sanity.
H/T - Sandy Liddy Bourne
GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY, LT. GOVERNOR ANTHONY BROWN TO HOST STUDENT DISCUSSION AT COLLEGE PARK
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley and Lt. Governor Anthony Brown will host a youth inaugural event today, rescheduled from the weather-postponed event originally scheduled in January. More than 500 students from throughout Maryland will join Governor O’Malley and Lt. Governor Brown to discuss the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead for Maryland’s new economy, and the role that education will play in the transformation. Issues expected to guide the conversation include college affordability, job creation, and budget challenges.
This event, originally scheduled in January and delayed due to weather, serves to continue an ongoing dialogue with the people of Maryland on the tough choices needed to be a winner in this new economy.
You Can Donate Money Toward The National Debt
Are you outraged at recently proposed federal budget cuts, and dismayed that you just aren't contributing enough in taxes to help pay off the national debt? Good news! The Treasury Department has a program in place to donate toward the national debt. The program began in 1996, and has collected more than $406,000 so far this year.
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No Difference Between Large & Small Beers At Oakland Coliseum?
Qwest Field, home of the NFL's Seattle Seahawks, recently caught some flack when people pointed out that you could fit an entire large beer into a "small" beer cup. A video shot at the Oakland Athletics' ballpark is making people wonder how widespread this issue is.
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Japan Forced To Halt Whaling In Antarctic
The Japanese government announced they are suspending whaling activities due to persistent harassment from eco-activist group Sea Shepherd.
Scientists Find Cure For Baldness... In Mice?
Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com
A UCLA study on the effects of digestive health in mice accidentally lead to a breakthrough in hair re-growth.O'Malley Venture Capital Plan Draws Skepticism From Legislators
By Aaron C. Davis, The Washington Post
Maryland lawmakers are struggling with the centerpiece of Gov. Martin O'Malley's jobs agenda for the year, hearings on Wednesday revealed. Lawmakers said they weren't sure whether the governor's plan to raise money for high-tech startups would create a much-needed economic boost or a costly boon to insurance companies.
Maryland lawmakers are struggling with the centerpiece of Gov. Martin O'Malley's jobs agenda for the year, hearings on Wednesday revealed. Lawmakers said they weren't sure whether the governor's plan to raise money for high-tech startups would create a much-needed economic boost or a costly boon to insurance companies.
Will Electric Cars Save You Money?
ROCKVILLE, Md. (WUSA) -- Gas prices are on the rise. Could the solution be an electric car? We compared the Chevrolet Volt to its electric counterpart, the Chevrolet Cruze.
The CruzSticker Price: $26,280
Highway MPG: 36
Woodbridge, Va. to the Pentagon: 44 Miles RoundtripCRUZE: $3.85 per day; $307.50 per year
VOLT: $1.86 per day; $467.50 per year
Winchester, Va. to Tysons Corner: 120 Miles RoundtripCRUZE: $10.50 per day; $2,625 per year
VOLT: $8.96 per day; $2,240 per year
Source
Chris Pieroni at Ourisman Rockmont Chevrolet in Rockville showed us both cars. He had one Volt on the lot. We also looked at a Cruze that had the same features.
The VoltSticker Price: $44,195
Rebate: $7,500
Cost Per Charge: $1.50
Highway MPG: 37
Rebate: $7,500
Cost Per Charge: $1.50
Highway MPG: 37
Highway MPG: 36
Pieroni says the Volt can travel up to 40 miles on a full charge, then it reverts to gas. He says it takes premium.
"Personally, I think the better buy would be the Chevy Volt, in terms of paying for gas fuel," Pieroni said.
9NEWS NOW's Lindsey Mastis crunched the numbers, taking into account the upfront cost of buying the car. She compared costs among three popular commutes (counting 250 work days per year).
Bethesda to DC: 14 Miles RoundtripCRUZE: $1.23 per day; $307.50 per year
VOLT: $.53 per day; $662.50 per year
VOLT: $.53 per day; $662.50 per year
VOLT: $1.86 per day; $467.50 per year
Winchester, Va. to Tysons Corner: 120 Miles RoundtripCRUZE: $10.50 per day; $2,625 per year
VOLT: $8.96 per day; $2,240 per year
The Volt costs less in gas. But when you take into consideration the upfront cost of the car, the Cruze is a cheaper buy overall. We also ran the numbers for cost per five years, and the Cruze was still cheaper.
Source
20th Homicide In Prince George's County, 19th Criminal Homicide
LAUREL, Md. (WUSA) -- Prince George's County Police Cpl. Clinton Copeland says a person was shot to death in the South Laurel area Thursday night, making it the county's 19th criminal homicide case this year but the 20th homicide overall.
The shooting happened in the 13000 block of Mistletoe Spring Road around 6:15 p.m. at the Deerfield Run Elementary School and Community Center. When police arrived, they found a person suffering from a gunshot wound.
The person was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police are still searching for suspects.
MORE
The shooting happened in the 13000 block of Mistletoe Spring Road around 6:15 p.m. at the Deerfield Run Elementary School and Community Center. When police arrived, they found a person suffering from a gunshot wound.
The person was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police are still searching for suspects.
MORE
Rescue Crews Save Dog Trapped In Icy Reservoir
BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WJZ)—A dramatic scene unfolds live right on WJZ-TV, as a dog struggles to survive after falling through thin ice.
Kai Jackson has the exclusive story on how firefighters came to the rescue.
That rescue unfolded on WJZ-TV on Thursday during our 6 p.m. news. Rescue crews were swift in the effort to rescue the trapped dog, but the work was very dangerous.
Md. Wildlife Center Helps Save Bird On Brink Of Extinction
LAUREL, Md. (WJZ)—The video you’re about to see has never been seen before. Rare shots of whooping cranes born here in Maryland and just released to a new habitat in Louisiana, where they disappeared decades ago. If this works and the endangered birds soar back from the brink of extinction, it will be thanks to a breeding center here in Maryland.
Denise Koch has the story.
The call of the Whooping Crane rarely heard on the brink of extinction. Maryland leads the effort to save the Whooping Crane.
A breakthrough moment for this endangered species. Ten Whooping Crane chicks, born and raised in Maryland, just released in their new home in southwest Louisiana.
“The first time I saw birds that we had produced here flying free in the wild, it was really a thrill,” said John French, Patuxent Wildlife Research Center.
Gay Marriage Has The Votes To Pass State Senate
Rosapepe announces support after bill clears key committee
A key senator announced his support for gay marriage legislation on Thursday, giving it enough votes to clear the upper chamber.The declaration by Sen. James C. Rosapepe came shortly after a Senate committee approved an amended version of the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act, setting up a debate in the full Senate next week.
Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller said the chamber could hold a final vote on the bill within the next 10 days
MORE
Government To Start Fighting Homelessness Among Veterans
Veterans, particularly poor and minority veterans, are 50 percent more likely to become homeless compared to other Americans, according to a report released last week by the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) departments. The report also stated that almost 76,000 veterans were homeless on any given night in 2009, and approximately 136,000 veterans spent at least one night in a shelter. Approximately 44,000 to 66,000 are chronically homeless.
Most often, underlying causes of homelessness among veterans are their socioeconomic backgrounds and "personal factors," as well as a lack of affordable housing, the report said. Veterans' experiences prior to joining the military also have a significant causal relationship, putting those who were physically or sexually abused as children at a greater risk for homelessness. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other brain injuries are also a high contributing factor.
Following the report's publication, HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan said, "Understanding the nature and scope of veteran homelessness is critical to meeting President Obama's goal of ending veterans' homelessness within five years."
Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Releases
Incident: Extradition
Date of Incident: 15 February 2011
Location: Virginia
Suspects: Alonzo Corprew III, 39, Norfolk, VA
Narrative: On 15 February 2011, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office travelled to Norfolk, VA to extradite a prisoner from their correctional facility to Wicomico County.
Alonzo Corprew III was wanted in Wicomico County on a Failure to Appear Bench Warrant in a case where Corprew had attempted to flee and elude a law enforcement officer, resist arrest and attempted assault on a law enforcement officer. Once brought back to the Central Booking Unit at the Detention Center, Corprew was processed and held in the Detention Center on a bond of $75,000.00.
Charges: Failure to Appear for Trial
Incident: Extradition
Date of Incident: 16 February 2011
Location: Delaware
Suspects: Krystal Nicole Dennis, 22, Delmar, MD
Narrative: On 16 February 2011 at 1500hrs, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office travelled to New Castle, DE to pick up a prisoner at the Baylor Correctional Facility for extradition back to Wicomico County.
Krystal Nicole Dennis was wanted on two Failures to Appear Bench Warrants stemming from two different theft cases. Dennis was taken to the Central Booking Unit at the Detention Center where she was processed and held on $15,000.00 pre-set bond.
Charges: Failure to Appear for Trial
Plan Ahead: March 28-31 Registration Fair For 2011-12 Kindergarten/Prekindergarten
A Registration Fair to enroll students in kindergarten and prekindergarten for the 2011-12 school year will take place March 28-31 in the lobby of the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center.
The Registration Fair is for families of children who will start prekindergarten or kindergarten next year, and children not in public kindergarten now who will be enrolled in the first grade for the 2011-2012 school year. The Registration Fair will be open in the Civic Center lobby from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on the following schedule:
Monday, March 28: Willards Elementary, Charles H. Chipman Elementary, West Salisbury Elementary and Prince Street Elementary
Tuesday, March 29: Beaver Run Elementary, Pemberton Elementary, Fruitland Primary
Wednesday, March 30: Delmar Elementary, Westside Primary, Pinehurst Elementary, Northwestern Elementary
Thursday, March 31: For any family that has not been able to register on the assigned day
Individual schools will not handle enrollment for prekindergarten and kindergarten students. (The March 24 date published in the 2010-11 school system calendars is no longer valid; no registration will take place on that date.)
Any parent or guardian who is not able to enroll a child during the Registration Fair should contact the Centralized Enrollment Office at 410-677-4448 or 410-677-4476 to schedule an appointment after the Registration Fair. The Centralized Enrollment Office is located in Annex 2 of the Board of Education Office.
What to Bring
For the Registration Fair, parents or guardians will need to bring immunization records (please see a doctor or the health department to ensure that the child’s vaccination record is complete), birth certificate, Social Security card and proof of residency (utility bill with address served, or a lease or property tax bill) for each child. Income verification is needed for prekindergarten registration ONLY.
The flier on prekindergarten/kindergarten registration is posted online at www.wcboe.org, under Quick Links. Forms for registration (in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole) will be available online at www.wcboe.org, and in the Centralized Enrollment Office, after Feb. 28. Other forms and information, such as immunization requirements, Early Entrance Request and Kindergarten-Level of Maturity Waiver Form will also be posted online and available in the Centralized Enrollment Office.
Kindergarten
Children must be 5 years old by Sept. 1, 2011. Kindergarten is mandatory for all Maryland children who are 5 by this date unless the parents or guardians have completed a Kindergarten-Level of Maturity Waiver Form. Forms will be available at the schools or the Board website after Feb. 28. Completed forms should be forwarded to the attention of Mrs. Susan Jones, Director of Elementary Education.
Prekindergarten
Prekindergarten is not mandatory, and is offered to qualified children who will be 4 by Sept. 1, 2011. (For families in the Judy Center catchment areas of Beaver Run and Pemberton elementary schools only, prekindergarten services are also available to qualified children who will be 3 by Sept. 1, 2011.)
Maryland and Delmar, Del., neighborhood children who come from low-income or at-risk situations, have prior participation in Head Start or who experience challenges like emergency or health problems, limited English proficiency, homelessness, or other home or family circumstances, will be given priority admission to prekindergarten. Children may also be recommended for the program by government or court referral.
Parents or guardians whose child does not meet those criteria can put the child’s name on a waiting list, which will be used to fill any remaining slots. Documentation must be submitted prior to a child’s acceptance into the program.
Early Entrance Requests
Parents/guardians may seek early admission to prekindergarten, kindergarten or grade 1 for a child whose birth date falls between Sept. 2 and Oct. 15. The parents/guardians must submit an Early Entrance Request Form giving a reason for the request. The request form must be submitted to the Director of Elementary Education by July 31st of the year in which the parents/guardians would like the child to begin school. The child will be assessed and a determination will be made on eligibility for early admission as outlined in the Board of Education policy for the requested grade level.
The Board policy on early admission to kindergarten and prekindergarten is on the web site at http://www.wcboe.org/; Look for Board of Education in Quick Links and click to go to Policies.
The Registration Fair is for families of children who will start prekindergarten or kindergarten next year, and children not in public kindergarten now who will be enrolled in the first grade for the 2011-2012 school year. The Registration Fair will be open in the Civic Center lobby from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on the following schedule:
Monday, March 28: Willards Elementary, Charles H. Chipman Elementary, West Salisbury Elementary and Prince Street Elementary
Tuesday, March 29: Beaver Run Elementary, Pemberton Elementary, Fruitland Primary
Wednesday, March 30: Delmar Elementary, Westside Primary, Pinehurst Elementary, Northwestern Elementary
Thursday, March 31: For any family that has not been able to register on the assigned day
Individual schools will not handle enrollment for prekindergarten and kindergarten students. (The March 24 date published in the 2010-11 school system calendars is no longer valid; no registration will take place on that date.)
Any parent or guardian who is not able to enroll a child during the Registration Fair should contact the Centralized Enrollment Office at 410-677-4448 or 410-677-4476 to schedule an appointment after the Registration Fair. The Centralized Enrollment Office is located in Annex 2 of the Board of Education Office.
What to Bring
For the Registration Fair, parents or guardians will need to bring immunization records (please see a doctor or the health department to ensure that the child’s vaccination record is complete), birth certificate, Social Security card and proof of residency (utility bill with address served, or a lease or property tax bill) for each child. Income verification is needed for prekindergarten registration ONLY.
The flier on prekindergarten/kindergarten registration is posted online at www.wcboe.org, under Quick Links. Forms for registration (in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole) will be available online at www.wcboe.org, and in the Centralized Enrollment Office, after Feb. 28. Other forms and information, such as immunization requirements, Early Entrance Request and Kindergarten-Level of Maturity Waiver Form will also be posted online and available in the Centralized Enrollment Office.
Kindergarten
Children must be 5 years old by Sept. 1, 2011. Kindergarten is mandatory for all Maryland children who are 5 by this date unless the parents or guardians have completed a Kindergarten-Level of Maturity Waiver Form. Forms will be available at the schools or the Board website after Feb. 28. Completed forms should be forwarded to the attention of Mrs. Susan Jones, Director of Elementary Education.
Prekindergarten
Prekindergarten is not mandatory, and is offered to qualified children who will be 4 by Sept. 1, 2011. (For families in the Judy Center catchment areas of Beaver Run and Pemberton elementary schools only, prekindergarten services are also available to qualified children who will be 3 by Sept. 1, 2011.)
Maryland and Delmar, Del., neighborhood children who come from low-income or at-risk situations, have prior participation in Head Start or who experience challenges like emergency or health problems, limited English proficiency, homelessness, or other home or family circumstances, will be given priority admission to prekindergarten. Children may also be recommended for the program by government or court referral.
Parents or guardians whose child does not meet those criteria can put the child’s name on a waiting list, which will be used to fill any remaining slots. Documentation must be submitted prior to a child’s acceptance into the program.
Early Entrance Requests
Parents/guardians may seek early admission to prekindergarten, kindergarten or grade 1 for a child whose birth date falls between Sept. 2 and Oct. 15. The parents/guardians must submit an Early Entrance Request Form giving a reason for the request. The request form must be submitted to the Director of Elementary Education by July 31st of the year in which the parents/guardians would like the child to begin school. The child will be assessed and a determination will be made on eligibility for early admission as outlined in the Board of Education policy for the requested grade level.
The Board policy on early admission to kindergarten and prekindergarten is on the web site at http://www.wcboe.org/; Look for Board of Education in Quick Links and click to go to Policies.
REMINDER: Wicomico Students To Have School Feb. 28 And May 2 To Make Up Weather Closing Days
Students and families of Wicomico County Public Schools can count on having school on Monday, Feb. 28 and Monday, May 2 to make up for weather closings this winter.
Schools were closed due to weather conditions on Friday, Dec. 17 and Wednesday, Jan. 12. Both Feb. 28 and May 2 were scheduled to be staff professional days, but are designated on the approved calendar as days that could become makeup days if needed. Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen said that while professional days are important, the best use of those days is for instruction for students.
"We will adjust our staff schedules to address the needs of the students who have lost two days of instruction," Dr. Fredericksen said. "Staff members will be informed soon of the schedule for making up the professional development days."
Families who have already made and paid for travel plans for either Feb. 28 or May 2 may show documentation to the school for the student to have an excused absence.
Schools were closed due to weather conditions on Friday, Dec. 17 and Wednesday, Jan. 12. Both Feb. 28 and May 2 were scheduled to be staff professional days, but are designated on the approved calendar as days that could become makeup days if needed. Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen said that while professional days are important, the best use of those days is for instruction for students.
"We will adjust our staff schedules to address the needs of the students who have lost two days of instruction," Dr. Fredericksen said. "Staff members will be informed soon of the schedule for making up the professional development days."
Families who have already made and paid for travel plans for either Feb. 28 or May 2 may show documentation to the school for the student to have an excused absence.
Register Now For Free Football Clinic With SU Head Football Coach Sherman Wood
Wicomico County Public Schools are pleased to announce that boys ages 8-13 can now register for a free football clinic with Sherman Wood, Salisbury University head football coach. Coach Wood wants to give back to the community by providing free clinics on football techniques, including offensive and defensive drills. Wear sneakers and bring a football if you have one; no special equipment is needed. Parent/guardian or other responsible adult must be present for student to participate. The flier with registration form is available at each school. The schedule of clinics and who may attend each clinic is below.
Monday, Feb. 28, 6:30-7:30 p.m., come at 6 p.m. for registration that night, gymnasium of Wicomico Middle School: For students of Beaver Run Elementary, Charles H. Chipman Elementary, Willards Elementary, Pittsville Elementary and Middle, East Salisbury Elementary, Glen Avenue Elementary and icomico Middle. Registration must be turned in to the student’s physical education teacher by Feb. 22.
Thursday, March 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m., come at 6 p.m. for registration that night, gymnasium of Salisbury Middle School: For students of Pemberton Elementary, Delmar Elementary, Delmar Middle and High, West Salisbury Elementary, North Salisbury Elementary and Salisbury Middle. Registration must be turned in to the student’s physical education teacher by Feb. 25.
Wednesday, March 9, 6:30-7:30 p.m., come at 6 p.m. for registration that night, gymnasium of Westside Intermediate School: For students of Northwestern Elementary, Westside Intermediate and Mardela Middle. Registration must be turned in to the student’s physical education teacher by Feb. 25.
Thursday, March 17, 6:30-7:30 p.m., come at 6 p.m. for registration that night, gymnasium of Prince Street Elementary School: For students of Prince Street Elementary, Fruitland Primary, Fruitland Intermediate, Pinehurst Elementary and Bennett Middle. Registration must be turned in to the student’s physical education teacher by March 4.
Monday, Feb. 28, 6:30-7:30 p.m., come at 6 p.m. for registration that night, gymnasium of Wicomico Middle School: For students of Beaver Run Elementary, Charles H. Chipman Elementary, Willards Elementary, Pittsville Elementary and Middle, East Salisbury Elementary, Glen Avenue Elementary and icomico Middle. Registration must be turned in to the student’s physical education teacher by Feb. 22.
Thursday, March 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m., come at 6 p.m. for registration that night, gymnasium of Salisbury Middle School: For students of Pemberton Elementary, Delmar Elementary, Delmar Middle and High, West Salisbury Elementary, North Salisbury Elementary and Salisbury Middle. Registration must be turned in to the student’s physical education teacher by Feb. 25.
Wednesday, March 9, 6:30-7:30 p.m., come at 6 p.m. for registration that night, gymnasium of Westside Intermediate School: For students of Northwestern Elementary, Westside Intermediate and Mardela Middle. Registration must be turned in to the student’s physical education teacher by Feb. 25.
Thursday, March 17, 6:30-7:30 p.m., come at 6 p.m. for registration that night, gymnasium of Prince Street Elementary School: For students of Prince Street Elementary, Fruitland Primary, Fruitland Intermediate, Pinehurst Elementary and Bennett Middle. Registration must be turned in to the student’s physical education teacher by March 4.
Highlighted Events This Week And Next Week In Wicomico Schools
Thursday, Feb. 17, 6:29 p.m.
“Working Together for Children”
PAC 14
The latest edition of the school system’s cable show, “Working Together for Children,” is now airing on PAC 14 and will be on at 6:29 p.m. tonight. The show features an interview on the budget with Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen and Board President L. Michelle Wright, as well as a police bloodhound visit to Beaver Run Elementary, Operation SPEAK, and highlights from the January Awards & Recognitions Night. The show will also air at 10:28 a.m. and 6:29 p.m. Friday and at noon Saturday, and throughout the next three weeks.
Friday, Feb. 18, 8 a.m.
Board of Education Work Session
Board of Education Office
The Board of Education will hold a work session on the High Performing Learners Committee recommendations for Grade 3 criteria for the Magnet Program.
Monday, Feb. 21
President’s Day holiday
Schools and Central Office closed
Tuesday, Feb. 22, 7:30 a.m.
Board of Education Work Session on Budget
Board of Education Office
The Board of Education will hold a work session on the Fiscal Year 2011-12 budget at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22, at the Board Office. The Board is working on the proposed budget that it must adopt by March 15.
Wednesday, Feb. 23
Superintendent’s Open Door Session
Board of Education Office
A Superintendent’s Open Door Session will take place Wednesday, Feb. 23 from 4-6 p.m., in the Administrative Conference Room at the Board of Education Office. The Open Door Sessions are opportunities to meet one-on-one with Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen to discuss any issue, idea or concern. No appointments are made: Anyone interested in meeting with the superintendent should come to the Board office that day and sign in. Other Superintendent Open Door Sessions for this year are scheduled for March 23, April 27 and May 25. 410-677-4495.
Wednesday, Feb. 23
STEM Career Discovery: “Is There a Doctor in the House?”
Bennett Middle School STEM Academy
The Bennett Middle School STEM Academy will host “Is There a Doctor in the House?”, a career discovery evening for students and parents. This hands-on event will take place from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 23 at Bennett Middle. It will focus on careers such as emergency medicine, occupational and physical therapy, respiratory therapy, orthopedics, gastroenterology, and more. Information will be available from Healthy U, Blood Bank of Delmarva and Women Supporting Women. 410-677-5140.
Friday, Feb. 25
Mid-term Progress Reports Sent Home
“Working Together for Children”
PAC 14
The latest edition of the school system’s cable show, “Working Together for Children,” is now airing on PAC 14 and will be on at 6:29 p.m. tonight. The show features an interview on the budget with Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen and Board President L. Michelle Wright, as well as a police bloodhound visit to Beaver Run Elementary, Operation SPEAK, and highlights from the January Awards & Recognitions Night. The show will also air at 10:28 a.m. and 6:29 p.m. Friday and at noon Saturday, and throughout the next three weeks.
Friday, Feb. 18, 8 a.m.
Board of Education Work Session
Board of Education Office
The Board of Education will hold a work session on the High Performing Learners Committee recommendations for Grade 3 criteria for the Magnet Program.
Monday, Feb. 21
President’s Day holiday
Schools and Central Office closed
Tuesday, Feb. 22, 7:30 a.m.
Board of Education Work Session on Budget
Board of Education Office
The Board of Education will hold a work session on the Fiscal Year 2011-12 budget at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22, at the Board Office. The Board is working on the proposed budget that it must adopt by March 15.
Wednesday, Feb. 23
Superintendent’s Open Door Session
Board of Education Office
A Superintendent’s Open Door Session will take place Wednesday, Feb. 23 from 4-6 p.m., in the Administrative Conference Room at the Board of Education Office. The Open Door Sessions are opportunities to meet one-on-one with Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen to discuss any issue, idea or concern. No appointments are made: Anyone interested in meeting with the superintendent should come to the Board office that day and sign in. Other Superintendent Open Door Sessions for this year are scheduled for March 23, April 27 and May 25. 410-677-4495.
Wednesday, Feb. 23
STEM Career Discovery: “Is There a Doctor in the House?”
Bennett Middle School STEM Academy
The Bennett Middle School STEM Academy will host “Is There a Doctor in the House?”, a career discovery evening for students and parents. This hands-on event will take place from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 23 at Bennett Middle. It will focus on careers such as emergency medicine, occupational and physical therapy, respiratory therapy, orthopedics, gastroenterology, and more. Information will be available from Healthy U, Blood Bank of Delmarva and Women Supporting Women. 410-677-5140.
Friday, Feb. 25
Mid-term Progress Reports Sent Home
JMB Rock 'n' Roll Revival Opens Feb. 19, Runs Through Feb. 27
Feb. 19-20 and Feb. 24-27
JMB’s 13th annual Rock & Roll Revival
Wicomico High School Auditorium
Tickets are on sale now for this annual showcase of Clipper talent. Students sing, dance, play instruments, and work in many areas behind the scenes to put on this highly successful show, which will be on the Wicomico High School Auditorium stage due to the ongoing construction at the Bennett Auditorium.
This year's show is the biggest ever. Get a preview here:
http://www.delmarvanow.com/section/VIDEONETWORK#/Local%20News/Rock%20%27n%27%20Roll%20Revival%20Sneak%20Peek/50890971001/50780645001/778792182001
Show directors are Christie and Larry Wersen, and all proceeds benefit the JMB PTSA.
Shows will be at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 20, and 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, Friday, Feb. 25, Saturday, Feb. 26, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27.
Tickets are $15 and are available now at the PNC Bank at Beaglin Park Drive and Snow Hill Road. For ticket information, e-mail jmbrockandrollrevival@gmail.com or call Chris Wilde at 410-430-8634.
JMB’s 13th annual Rock & Roll Revival
Wicomico High School Auditorium
Tickets are on sale now for this annual showcase of Clipper talent. Students sing, dance, play instruments, and work in many areas behind the scenes to put on this highly successful show, which will be on the Wicomico High School Auditorium stage due to the ongoing construction at the Bennett Auditorium.
This year's show is the biggest ever. Get a preview here:
http://www.delmarvanow.com/section/VIDEONETWORK#/Local%20News/Rock%20%27n%27%20Roll%20Revival%20Sneak%20Peek/50890971001/50780645001/778792182001
Show directors are Christie and Larry Wersen, and all proceeds benefit the JMB PTSA.
Shows will be at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 20, and 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, Friday, Feb. 25, Saturday, Feb. 26, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27.
Tickets are $15 and are available now at the PNC Bank at Beaglin Park Drive and Snow Hill Road. For ticket information, e-mail jmbrockandrollrevival@gmail.com or call Chris Wilde at 410-430-8634.