How can Governor O'Malley make the claim that septic systems harm the Chesapeake Bay worse than Municipal systems? Believe me, the list just goes on and on. Nevertheless, here are some basic samples. It should also be noted. The Town of Berlin has been under order to replace their WWTP for more than 30 years. No fines, no new system. If your septic system failed and you didn't fix it for 30 years, how much do YOU think you'd be fined?
Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission - Montgomery County: On September 29, 2010, the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission paid $5,200 to the Clean Water Fund to resolve alleged water pollution violations that occurred on July 10, 2009. During the de-wateringof a 42-inch water main, chlorinated water was discharged to waters of the State. Corrective actions have been taken to address the alleged violations at the site.
Calvert County Department of Public Works: On October 14, 2010, the Calvert County Department of Public Works paid $9,600 to resolve three alleged unauthorized discharges of wastewater from the Solomons Wastewater Treatment Plant and Collection System. Corrective actions have been taken to resolve the problem.
Allegany County Commissioners, Burbridge Building: On October 20, 2010, Allegany County paid $1,850 to the Clean Water Fund to resolve alleged discharge permit violations that occurred during the construction of the Burbridge Building near Cumberland. The violation has been corrected.
The City of Salisbury, Wicomico County – On November 26, 2006, MDE and the City of Salisbury finalized an administrative consent order resolving MDE’s Administrative Complaint, Order and Penalty filed on May 19, 2006 for alleged unlawful discharges of sewage sludge at the Salisbury Wastewater Treatment Plant. Under the terms of the consent order, Salisbury is required to remove all sludge from its lagoon by no later than July 20, 2007 and pay a penalty of $10,000 to the Maryland Clean Water Fund. Status: Case closed. (Reference Case No. MDE-WMA-067-26681) We ALL know how this came about! SBYNews.com
Town of Indian Head, Charles County - On December 11, 2006, MDE and the Town of Indian Head finalized an administrative consent order regarding improvements to the Town of Indian Head Wastewater Treatment Plant. Under the terms of the consent order, Indian Head is required to implement an enhanced nutrient removal (ENR) upgrade of its plant by no later December 31, 2008. Status: Case closed. (Reference Case No. CO-07-0388)
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
RSC Update: After Weeklong Debate, House Passes Bill To Cut Spending
RSC members, in particular the members of our freshman class, pushed the Republican Conference to achieve this level of savings over the last few weeks. The House-passed CR is a good first step, and I applaud my colleagues for sending this positive signal to job creators that we are serious about saving the country from mounting debt.
Still, it was disappointing that the RSC amendment to achieve an additional $22 billion in savings fell short of the votes required for passage. Considering the size of Washington’s $1.5 trillion deficit and $14 trillion national debt, far greater steps must follow.
Total federal spending has grown by nearly 36% since 2007, adding $5.4 trillion to the national debt. House Republicans are doing our part to rein in this reckless borrowing and avoid a government shutdown after March 4. Over in the Senate, however, Democrats (who are not in Washington debating the CR this week) remain in control and insist on keeping spending at its current, bloated level. A government shutdown is unacceptable, as is the Democrats’ refusal to cut even $1 from current spending.
God Bless,
Congressman Jim Jordan
Chairman, Republican Study Committee
American Red Cross Lower Shore PRESS RELEASE
House Fire at Dreamland Homes Development Accomack, County VA 22 February 2011
2nd House Fire Response Today
The American Red Cross Lower Shore Chapter Disaster Action Team #11 is responding to assist a family of 5, 2 adults & 3 children displaced by a house fire at Dreamland Homes development in Accomack County, VA.
Something Stinks With House Bill 1107
BUILDERS & DEVELOPERS BEWARE!!!!!
Salisbury News has come to learn that many builders and developers are not truly aware of what's about to happen, so pay very close attention. I'll start of by strongly suggesting you read this bill very carefully.
You see, many people believe this only affects those lots/developments that have 6 or more homes being built. This is absolutely not true at all.
Even if you have 1 to 5 home sites, this new bill will force you to purchase a $10,000.00 pre treatment system. Heck, if your current drain field ever fails, you could/will be forced to do the same. Oh, wait a minute. Were you aware that you'll also be forced into a $300.00 a year service contract too?
Yeah, as usual the Main Stream Media has not kept you informed. Salisbury News will deliver a very detailed investigative report on this matter within the next 24 hours. However, at this point and time I want to direct the following question to our Eastern Shore Leaders. You see, SBYNews is aware that YOU have been well aware of the detailed information about how this affects everyone, yet NOTHING has been said. I feel, elected officials are elected to represent YOU and ME! These leaders meet once a month to discuss topics just like this one, yet Worcester and Wicomico County Leaders haven't said a word, (other than Delegate Mike McDermott).
Considering this bill is in the final reading stage, how the hell did this happen without your full knowledge! Be prepared for some heavy duty phone calls in the very near future because what we're going to introduce to the public very soon will, well, flat out piss a lot of people off.
If you'd like to read the HB1107 GO HERE.
IN ADDITION: How many of our elected officials ran their campaign stating we need to get Annapolis out of our business on the Eastern Shore. Many even stated to me in interviews, We need to stop Maryland Planning from taking over our Zoning issues. What say you now?
18 Sobering Facts Which Prove That The Middle Class Is Not Being Included In This 'Economic Recovery'
Have you heard the news? The stock market is absolutely soaring and according to the U.S. government and the Federal Reserve we are in the beginning stages of a robust economic recovery. Yippee! The S&P 500 is up 6.8 percent so far in 2011, and the stock market recently hit a two and a half year high. So shouldn't we all be celebrating? Well, if stock market performance was an accurate measure of economic health, then Zimbabwe would have had one of the healthiest economies on the entire globe during the last decade. But just like Zimbabwe's stock market was artificially pumped up with "funny money" that was rapidly being devalued, so is ours. All of the "quantitative easing" that the Federal Reserve has been doing is pumping plenty of money into the financial markets and is helping to inflate a false stock market bubble, but it is doing very little to alleviate the suffering of the U.S. middle class. In fact, when you take a closer look at the numbers you quickly find out that the suffering of the middle class is getting even worse.
According to Gallup, the unemployment rate is now over 10%. The number of Americans that have given up looking for work recently set a new all-time record. The number of mortgages in foreclosure tied a record high during the fourth quarter of 2010. Gas and food prices are rising rapidly. The number of Americans on food stamps continues to increase every single month.
Yes, right now the economic situation is not in free fall like it was a couple years ago. We should be thankful for that. Periods of relative stability such as we are enjoying now will be few and far between in the years ahead. This "bubble" of economic calm is a great opportunity that we should all be taking advantage of.
However, those that are hoping that this is an economic "turning point" and that things will soon be back to "normal" are going to be greatly disappointed. This is about as "normal" as things are going to be ever again.
Even during this time of relative economic stability, the U.S. middle class is still being ripped to shreds. If there are those among your family and friends that are somehow convinced that the U.S. economy is recovering nicely, you might want want to show them the following 18 very sobering facts....
GO HERE to read the 18 facts.
According to Gallup, the unemployment rate is now over 10%. The number of Americans that have given up looking for work recently set a new all-time record. The number of mortgages in foreclosure tied a record high during the fourth quarter of 2010. Gas and food prices are rising rapidly. The number of Americans on food stamps continues to increase every single month.
Yes, right now the economic situation is not in free fall like it was a couple years ago. We should be thankful for that. Periods of relative stability such as we are enjoying now will be few and far between in the years ahead. This "bubble" of economic calm is a great opportunity that we should all be taking advantage of.
However, those that are hoping that this is an economic "turning point" and that things will soon be back to "normal" are going to be greatly disappointed. This is about as "normal" as things are going to be ever again.
Even during this time of relative economic stability, the U.S. middle class is still being ripped to shreds. If there are those among your family and friends that are somehow convinced that the U.S. economy is recovering nicely, you might want want to show them the following 18 very sobering facts....
GO HERE to read the 18 facts.
Salisbury Police Department Press Releases
On February 18, 2011 at approximately 7:00 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the McDonald’s Restaurant on Nanticoke Road for the report of a robbery. Upon arrival the officers met with store management who advised that a lone suspect had approached a manager at the restaurant and had produced a knife. The suspect threatened the store employee, then took a bag containing U.S. Currency from the restaurant and fled from the area on foot. There were no injuries. The officers attempted to track the suspect with the assistance of a K-9 from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office with negative results. The Salisbury Police also received assistance from the Maryland State Police Aviation Unit in an attempt to track the suspect. The suspect was last seen in the area of the Village at Mitchell Pond apartment complex. The suspect was described as:
Black male, 20 to 25 years of age, medium build, wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans.
If anyone has any information regarding this incident, they are asked to contact the Salisbury Police Department at 410-548-3165 or to contact Crime Solvers of Delmarva at 410-548-1776. Information may be left at both locations anonymously.
CC # 201100006191
On February 18, 2011 at approximately 2:00 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to a residence on the five hundred (500) block of Rose Street for the report of a domestic altercation. Upon arrival the officers met with an adult male victim who advised the officers that he and the below listed suspect had become involved in an argument while inside of a residence. The argument escalated and quickly turned into a physical altercation. The victim attempted to leave the residence and was followed by the suspect, who threw a number of kitchen knives and one (1) meat cleaver at the victim. One of the knives caused a minor injury to the victim’s left shoulder. The suspect was taken into custody without incident and the victim did not require medical attention.
ARRESTED: Rochelle Devonne Freeman, 34 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Attempted second degree murder
First degree assault
Second degree assault
Reckless endangerment
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100006160
On February 20, 2011 at approximately 12:32 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to a residence on the three hundred (300) block of East Vine Street for the report of a disorderly subject. Upon arrival the officers met with the below listed suspect, who was in front of the residence acting in a disorderly manner. The suspect gave the officers false identification information a number of times before providing accurate information. Once the accurate information was received, it was found that the suspect was wanted on an outstanding bench warrant. The suspect was taken into custody and a search of her person, incident to arrest, revealed a hypodermic syringe containing suspected heroin and a smoking device containing suspected “crack”/cocaine residue.
ARRESTED: Bobbie Lynn Parsons, 30 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
False statement to a police officer
Obstructing and hindering an investigation
Possession of heroin
Possession of cocaine
Possession of CDS/Paraphernalia
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100006450
On February 20, 2011 at approximately 1:22 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to a local hotel on North Salisbury Boulevard for the report of suspicious activity. Upon arrival the officers met with hotel employees who advised the officers that they had found controlled dangerous substances and paraphernalia in a room after the below listed suspect had checked out of the hotel. The suspect was still located on the hotel premises when approached by the officers. The suspect gave the officers consent to check his luggage and the check resulted in the officers locating and recovering a quantity of suspected heroin and prescription medication.
ARRESTED: Nicholas Todd Jenkins, 30 years of age Chester, Maryland
CHARGES:
Possession of heroin (3 counts)
Possession of CDS/Paraphernalia (3 counts)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100006455
On February 21, 2011 at approximately 3:11 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Walmart Department Store on North Salisbury Boulevard for the report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival the officers met with store security who advised that store employees had observed the below listed suspect take cosmetics from the store without making any attempts at payment. The cosmetics were recovered and returned to the store.
ARRESTED: Tiffany Dawn Machado, 20 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 1,000)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100006566
Black male, 20 to 25 years of age, medium build, wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans.
If anyone has any information regarding this incident, they are asked to contact the Salisbury Police Department at 410-548-3165 or to contact Crime Solvers of Delmarva at 410-548-1776. Information may be left at both locations anonymously.
CC # 201100006191
On February 18, 2011 at approximately 2:00 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to a residence on the five hundred (500) block of Rose Street for the report of a domestic altercation. Upon arrival the officers met with an adult male victim who advised the officers that he and the below listed suspect had become involved in an argument while inside of a residence. The argument escalated and quickly turned into a physical altercation. The victim attempted to leave the residence and was followed by the suspect, who threw a number of kitchen knives and one (1) meat cleaver at the victim. One of the knives caused a minor injury to the victim’s left shoulder. The suspect was taken into custody without incident and the victim did not require medical attention.
ARRESTED: Rochelle Devonne Freeman, 34 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Attempted second degree murder
First degree assault
Second degree assault
Reckless endangerment
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100006160
On February 20, 2011 at approximately 12:32 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to a residence on the three hundred (300) block of East Vine Street for the report of a disorderly subject. Upon arrival the officers met with the below listed suspect, who was in front of the residence acting in a disorderly manner. The suspect gave the officers false identification information a number of times before providing accurate information. Once the accurate information was received, it was found that the suspect was wanted on an outstanding bench warrant. The suspect was taken into custody and a search of her person, incident to arrest, revealed a hypodermic syringe containing suspected heroin and a smoking device containing suspected “crack”/cocaine residue.
ARRESTED: Bobbie Lynn Parsons, 30 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
False statement to a police officer
Obstructing and hindering an investigation
Possession of heroin
Possession of cocaine
Possession of CDS/Paraphernalia
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100006450
On February 20, 2011 at approximately 1:22 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to a local hotel on North Salisbury Boulevard for the report of suspicious activity. Upon arrival the officers met with hotel employees who advised the officers that they had found controlled dangerous substances and paraphernalia in a room after the below listed suspect had checked out of the hotel. The suspect was still located on the hotel premises when approached by the officers. The suspect gave the officers consent to check his luggage and the check resulted in the officers locating and recovering a quantity of suspected heroin and prescription medication.
ARRESTED: Nicholas Todd Jenkins, 30 years of age Chester, Maryland
CHARGES:
Possession of heroin (3 counts)
Possession of CDS/Paraphernalia (3 counts)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100006455
On February 21, 2011 at approximately 3:11 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Walmart Department Store on North Salisbury Boulevard for the report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival the officers met with store security who advised that store employees had observed the below listed suspect take cosmetics from the store without making any attempts at payment. The cosmetics were recovered and returned to the store.
ARRESTED: Tiffany Dawn Machado, 20 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 1,000)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100006566
Market And Economic Analysis Of The Wicomico Youth & Civic Center
Dear Friend,
Wicomico County is embarking on a market and economic analysis of the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center and you are enthusiastically invited to be a part of the process. The Maryland Stadium Authority has contracted nationally-renowned Crossroads Consulting Services of Tampa, Florida to conduct this study. Crossroads has completed similar studies throughout the country. This study will involve two major phases: 1) a thorough market analysis and, 2) a projected economic impact analysis.
Phase I- Market Analysis
This includes components such as analyzing market characteristics; interviewing area stakeholders; reviewing historical event activity; profiles of area competitive facilities and studying other important factors.
Phase II- Economic Impact Analysis
This includes financial pro forma estimation of total economic impacts, written reports and deliverables.
Your engagement and input is vital to the study’s ultimate success and I am inviting you to attend a one hour kick-off event on Friday, February 25th, at 10am in the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center DaNang Meeting rooms. This will provide you with an opportunity to meet the consultants, understand the methodology and exchange initial thoughts on the study.
The Wicomico Youth & Civic Center brings more than great entertainment to our county. It continues to be a selling tool for out-of-area relocations, ripple effect economic spending, an asset to your business or organization for meetings and conferences and a tribute to the importance of a viable and vibrant Civic Center in our community.
Please RSVP by contacting Tammy Taylor at (410) 548-4900 x115 or ttaylor@wicomicocounty.org on or before February 23rd, 2011.
Thanks for your consideration and strong support for our county. Hope to see you at the Civic Center.
Sincerely,
Rick Pollitt
Rick Pollitt
County Executive
OCPD SEEKING THE PUBLIC’S ASSISTANCE TO IDENTIFY BURGLARY SUSPECTS
On Wednesday, February 2, 2011, at approximately 1 p.m., Ocean City Police responded
to 1301 Atlantic Avenue for a burglary that had occurred at Kelly’s Restaurant. An
investigation revealed that the suspects forced entry into the establishment and had
stolen over $1,000 in alcohol.
Ocean City Police are asking anyone with information about this incident, or the
suspect(s) involved, to please contact the Ocean City Police Department’s Criminal
Investigation Division at 410-723-6604.
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HONOR OCPD CPL DENNIS EADE AS OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Among their top honors, such as Firefighter of the Year, EMT of the Year, Teacher of the Year and Couple of the Year, the Knights of Columbus awarded Ocean City Cpl. Dennis Eade with the prestigious title of Officer of the Year.
“I am extremely proud of Cpl. Dennis Eade,” said Chief Bernadette DiPino. “He exemplifies many of the high qualities and standards that are expected of an Ocean City Police Officer.”
Cpl. Eade is originally from Upstate New York and attended New Mexico Military Institute, Tompkins Cortland Community College and the State University of New York College at Brockport. Cpl. Eade began his law enforcement career with the Ocean City Police Department as a seasonal police officer in 1997, 1998 and 1999. He was hired full time in 2000.
He is one of the only Ocean City officers who have been assigned to the every division in the department including Training, Vice/Narcotics and plain clothes assignments.
“I am honored and humbled to receive the Officer of the Year award,” said Cpl. Eade. “Every day I am motivated and inspired by my fellow officers of the Ocean City Police Department. I, along with my fellow nominees and the men and women of the Ocean City Police Department, will surely continue to dedicate ourselves 100 percent to the Town of Ocean City and to public safety.”
In addition to being named “2010 Officer of the Year” by the Knights of Columbus, Cpl. Eade also recently was named “2010 Neighborhood Watch Officer of the Year” by the Ocean City Neighborhood Watch Association. Cpl. Eade also has six departmental commendations for outstanding police performance, three unit citations, and a Chief’s commendation, for pulling a drowning victim from the dangerous Ocean City Inlet waters. He also earned awards from the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy for excellence in both academics and physical fitness, and was selected by his instructors to be his Academy Class Leader.
Cpl. Eade serves the department in a number of capacities. He is a Maryland Police and Corrections Training Commission certified police instructor. He serves as a Police Academy Drill Instructor and is one of the department’s defensive tactics instructors. Cpl. Eade has instructed full-time and seasonal police officers in courtroom testimony, juvenile law, drug identification and advanced defensive tactics.
Cpl. Eade is a member of the department’s Quick Response Team (S.W.A.T.). He has been a regional champion and a national finalist in the LEOPARD Challenge law enforcement competition and was highlighted on “The Outdoor Network” for his success. He also serves as a community self defense instructor. Cpl. Eade has also instructed the Ocean City Citizens Police Academy.
Cpl. Eade is very active with Concerns of Police Survivors and has organized several charitable events for Special Olympics Maryland. Last Christmas, Cpl. Eade was one of 15 officers hand selected by Sheriff Mike Lewis as part of a search team that located the body of Sarah Foxwell. Cpl. Eade is a member of the Fraternal Order of Police and spends his spare time participating in Ocean City recreational sports.
Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Releases
Incident: Assault on Deputies
Date of Incident: 17 February 2011
Location: 1400 block Jersey Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: 1. Terrell B. Finney, 20, Salisbury, MD
2. Terrance L. Finney, 19, Salisbury, MD
3. Tammy R. Finney, 42, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 17 February 2011 at 2:36 PM, deputies responded to an altercation occurring in the roadway in the 1400 block of Jersey Road. Upon arrival, deputies learned that an altercation had taken place between Terrance Finney and Tammy Finney, during which Terrance broke out the window of their vehicle, lacerating his hand. EMS had responded due to the injury but had requested a law enforcement response due to Terrance’s agitation and his alleged assault of EMS personnel.
Upon the arrival of the deputies, Terrance began walking away from the scene while cursing at them. One of the deputies noticed his injuries and attempted to detain him until the situation was straightened out. Terrance twice tried to push one of the deputies away which led to his arrest. During the arrest of Terrance, he struggled against the deputies efforts and had to be forcibly taken into custody. While this was happening, Terrance’s brother, Terrell, attempted to intercede in an attempt to get the deputies away from Terrance. After Terrell assaulted one of the deputies, he too was placed under arrest. During the arrest of Terrell, his mother, Tammy, tried to interfere with the arrest by grabbing hold of the arresting deputy. She too was placed under arrest.
All three members of the Finney family were transported to the Central Booking Unit where they were processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained all three in the Detention Center in lieu of $25,000.00 bond each.
Charges: Assault 2nd Degree
Disorderly Conduct
Resist Arrest
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 18 February 2011
Location: 1700 block of Wilson Lane, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Trayonne M. Rodwell, 18, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 18 February 2011 at 6:15 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to investigate a reported altercation at a residence in the 1700 block of Wilson Lane in Salisbury. Investigation revealed that Trayonne Rodwell became embroiled in an argument with his father when Trayonne allegedly pulled a knife and began swinging it at his father. Trayonne was gone upon the arrival of the deputy but a knife was located in the front yard.
Responding deputies located Trayonne on an adjacent street where he was taken into custody. Trayonne was transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Trayonne in the Detention Center in lieu of $75,000.00 bond.
Charges: Assault 1st Degree
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 20 February 2011
Location: 400 block of Dorsey Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Deaundre A. Simmons, 35, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 20 February 2011 at 1:15 AM, a deputy investigated a 911 open line call with no communication, only a lot of yelling. Upon arrival, deputies met with Deaundre Simmons and his girlfriend and learned that they became involved in a verbal altercation over Facebook. During the ensuing investigation, deputies learned that Simmons allegedly struck his girlfriend in the face with a shoe. She then tried to leave but was pulled from her vehicle by Simmons and drug back into the house where Simmons supposedly tried to choke her. Deputies on scene observed signs of injury on Simmons’ girlfriend that corroborated the accounts of the assault.
Simmons was placed under arrest and transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Simmons in the Detention Center in lieu of $25,000.00 bond.
Charges: Assault 2nd Degree
False Imprisonment
Incident: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 19 February 2011
Location: 600 block of West Salisbury Parkway, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Jason D. Cotton, 26, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 19 February 2011 at 10:30 AM, a deputy was in the parking lot of the Salisbury Police Department taking a report for a theft that occurred in the county when the deputy asked the operator, Jason Cotton, for information regarding the investigation. When Cotton opened the door of his vehicle to retrieve the information, the deputy who was standing in close proximity smelled the odor of burnt marijuana drifting out from the interior of Cotton’s vehicle. The deputy observed that Cotton was cupping something in his hand in an apparent attempt to conceal it. Upon further investigation, the deputy recovered marijuana from Cotton.
The deputy placed Cotton under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner released Cotton on Personal Recognizance.
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Incident: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 19 February 2011
Location: 500 block of Walnut Street, Hebron, MD
Suspects: Male Juvenile, 17, Hebron, MD
Narrative: On 19 February 2011 at 4:28 PM, a deputy observed subjects on a property in the 500 block of Walnut Street in Hebron that was posted “No Trespassing” and has been the subject of repeated incidents of trespassing complaints. Upon approaching the group who were all identified as juveniles from Hebron, the deputy detected the odor of marijuana emanating from one later identified as a 17 year old. Upon further investigation, the deputy recovered a pill bottle holding what the deputy recognized as marijuana.
The juvenile was arrested and subsequently released to a parent pending formal adjudication by the Department of juvenile Services.
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
American Red Cross Lower Shore
Meadow Bridge Road House Fire 22 February 2011
The American Red Cross Lower Shore Chapter Disaster Action Team #7 responded to assist a family of 5, 2 adults & 3 children displaced by a house fire on Meadow Bridge Road, Worcester County, MD.
Wisconsin Update
Joe,
Here’s the latest from Wisconsin: Democrats are continuing to stand up to Gov. Scott Walker and the radical Republican agenda, and people from all over are voicing their solidarity with Wisconsin’s teachers and other workers. But Walker is pushing back hard. The billionaire Koch brothers have even gotten involved – busing in tea party protesters.
I wanted to make sure you had the chance to sign our petition.
Click here to join the more than 47,000 people who are standing with Wisconsin’s workers. Budgets shouldn’t be balanced on the backs of people who teach our children and keep our communities safe.
I’m inspired by what I’m watching in Wisconsin. Let’s make sure they know we’re in the fight, too.
Guy Cecil
Here’s the latest from Wisconsin: Democrats are continuing to stand up to Gov. Scott Walker and the radical Republican agenda, and people from all over are voicing their solidarity with Wisconsin’s teachers and other workers. But Walker is pushing back hard. The billionaire Koch brothers have even gotten involved – busing in tea party protesters.
I wanted to make sure you had the chance to sign our petition.
Click here to join the more than 47,000 people who are standing with Wisconsin’s workers. Budgets shouldn’t be balanced on the backs of people who teach our children and keep our communities safe.
I’m inspired by what I’m watching in Wisconsin. Let’s make sure they know we’re in the fight, too.
Guy Cecil
Oil Shock Fears As Libya Erupts
The spectre of full civil war in oil-rich Libya and reports of the creation of an Islamic emirate in country's "Barqa" region has moved the Mid-East crisis into a more dangerous phase, setting off an explosive rise in US crude prices.
"This is potentially worse for oil than the Iran crisis in 1979," said Paul Horsnell, head of oil research at Barclays Capital. "That was a revolution in one country, here there are so many countries at once. The world has only 4.5m barrels-per-day (bpd) of spare capacity, which is not comfortable."US oil contracts jumped $6 a barrel on Monday to over $95, chasing Brent crude, which traded as high as $108, as the global oil system is drawn into the vortex. While Egypt is a minor oil player, Libya's Sirte Basin holds Africa's largest reserves and supplies 1.4m bpd in exports, mostly to Italy, Germany and Spain.
BP, Statoil, Total and ENI have begun evacuating families and non-essential staff from Libya. BP chief Bob Dudley told Sky News that the company has only limited exploration in Libya but "remains committed to doing business" there.
Germans oil explorer Wintershall said it was winding down its Libyan operations, but Italy's ENI has most to lose from its pipeline to Libya. ENI's stock tumbled 5pc in Milan, leading a 3.6pc fall in the MIB index.
Global oil inventories are higher than before the 2008 price spike, and OPEC can raise output if needed. It has refused to act so far despite pleas from the International Energy Agency (IEA) that the supply picture is already "alarming".
More
Two-Thirds Of Wis. Public-School 8th Graders Can’t Read Proficiently
Two-thirds of the eighth graders in Wisconsin public schools cannot read proficiently according to the U.S. Department of Education, despite the fact that Wisconsin spends more per pupil in its public schools than any other state in the Midwest.
In the National Assessment of Educational Progress tests administered by the U.S. Department of Education in 2009—the latest year available—only 32 percent of Wisconsin public-school eighth graders earned a “proficient” rating while another 2 percent earned an “advanced” rating. The other 66 percent of Wisconsin public-school eighth graders earned ratings below “proficient,” including 44 percent who earned a rating of “basic” and 22 percent who earned a rating of “below basic.”
The test also showed that the reading abilities of Wisconsin public-school eighth graders had not improved at all between 1998 and 2009 despite a significant inflation-adjusted increase in the amount of money Wisconsin public schools spent per pupil each year.
Read more here
In the National Assessment of Educational Progress tests administered by the U.S. Department of Education in 2009—the latest year available—only 32 percent of Wisconsin public-school eighth graders earned a “proficient” rating while another 2 percent earned an “advanced” rating. The other 66 percent of Wisconsin public-school eighth graders earned ratings below “proficient,” including 44 percent who earned a rating of “basic” and 22 percent who earned a rating of “below basic.”
The test also showed that the reading abilities of Wisconsin public-school eighth graders had not improved at all between 1998 and 2009 despite a significant inflation-adjusted increase in the amount of money Wisconsin public schools spent per pupil each year.
Read more here
Libya Remains On UN Human Rights Panel As It Bombs Civilians
Libya remains on UN Human Rights Council as it continues to pay mercenaries and use tanks, planes and helicopters to massacre hundreds of protesters.
Mass exodus of foreigners. Obama silent. Oil prices soar.
Two leading Republic senators called on the president to speak out against Libya, and he might take a more public stand Tuesday, following the weekend and the Presidents’ Day holiday Monday.
More
Mass exodus of foreigners. Obama silent. Oil prices soar.
Two leading Republic senators called on the president to speak out against Libya, and he might take a more public stand Tuesday, following the weekend and the Presidents’ Day holiday Monday.
More
State Police Remind Citizens Of When To Call 9-1-1
Resume:
Dover-The Delaware State Police Communication Section would like to remind the citizens of the state to call 9-1-1 in emergency situations only. Calls for complaints such as a barking dog, loud music, or vandalism are not considered emergencies. Calls for complaints of this nature can be made to the non-emergency numbers also maintained by the Delaware State Police Communication Section in each county. The numbers are available for non-emergency calls and keep the 9-1-1 lines available for true in-progress or life threatening situations. The non-emergency number is an ideal way for residents or visitors of the state of Delaware to report events that do not need an immediate response by a public safety agency. However, if anyone is ever unsure as to which number to call, they should use 9-1-1.
Non-Emergency Numbers
New Castle County: 302-573-2800
Kent County: 302-739-4863
Sussex County: 302-855-2980
Text Keyword “DSP” and your message to 274637 (CRIMES)
One Year Ago Today
What Was WBOC Thinking?
At 7 PM things got even worse. While we all know they had footage of the Mayor's speech, they instead chose too run a brief interview with a gentleman who has only lived in Salisbury for seven months and he stated he felt perfectly safe in Salisbury.
They then went on with an interview with Councilman Gary Comegys. You know, the guy who ran against Jim Ireton and lost. Gary gave him a grade of "C" as far as the Mayors performance so far.
Look, I'm all about calling Mayor Ireton out if we feel he's out of line. However, WBOC never even gave the Mayor a chance. They used others to shoot him down with yet another personal agenda. Has Ireton cut WBOC off, like he's done with the Daily Times?
Nevertheless, it truly puzzles me as to why they would spend so much time and money going LIVE with two broadcasts and never once actually cover the Mayor and or what his speech had to say.
And they call themselves Journalists? I'd say its more about their own message and NOT what is really said and done.
Md. Union Leaders Watching Wisconsin Labor Battle
Maryland public-sector unions want to send a message to their counterparts in Wisconsin: "We're with you." Several of the largest Maryland state employee groups plan to rally in Annapolis on Tuesday to show solidarity with employees in Wisconsin, who are protesting the effort by Republican Gov. Scott Walker to take away collective-bargaining rights from public-sector unions.
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Intel Says It Will Add Thousands Of Workers This Year
It's a buyer's market for any corporation looking to stock up on talent. Intel is one of all too few businesses taking advantage of increasingly desperate job seekers, announcing it will add 4,000 workers in the U.S. this year.
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FDA Knew Of Problems At Plant That Made Tainted Wipes
The death of a Houston toddler blamed on contaminated alcohol wipes has prompted dozens of reports of similar infections even as documents show government inspectors knew about problems at a Wisconsin medical products plant as early as 2009.
Gun Gets Into Prison Despite 4 Searches
EASTON, Pa. - A man who had been searched four times still was able to carry a loaded handgun into a prison last year, leading to a lockdown, authorities said.
Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli told reporters Monday that Christian Neith, of Bethlehem was searched four times on Dec. 29 before he was able to stash the 9mm handgun behind a cabinet in the intake area of Northampton County Prison. A week later, the gun was found, triggering a four-day lockdown.
Neith, 20, was charged Monday with a felony firearms charge, two misdemeanor weapons counts and a charge of recklessly endangering another person.
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Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli told reporters Monday that Christian Neith, of Bethlehem was searched four times on Dec. 29 before he was able to stash the 9mm handgun behind a cabinet in the intake area of Northampton County Prison. A week later, the gun was found, triggering a four-day lockdown.
Neith, 20, was charged Monday with a felony firearms charge, two misdemeanor weapons counts and a charge of recklessly endangering another person.
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Wal-Mart Grapples With Its Worst Sales Slump Ever
Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is in the midst of its worst U.S. sales slump ever.
When it reports earnings on Tuesday, the retailer is widely expected to post its second straight year of declining domestic same-store sales.
Wal-Mart's struggles are the result of a misstep: To jump-start lethargic growth and counter the rise of competitors such as cheap-chic rival Target Corp., executives veered away from the winning formula of late founder Sam Walton to provide "every day low prices" to the American working class. Wal-Mart, the world's biggest retailer by sales, instead raised prices on some items while promoting deals on others.
How Much Do Public Workers Earn, The Truth
A guide to public employees' rights and benefits
Cost of future pensions and health benefits is pressing concern not only for Wisconsin, but for several states
Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker is locked in a tense struggle with public employee unions and Democratic lawmakers over his attempts to end collective bargaining rights for many public-sector workers and to require workers to pay more of their pension and health care costs.
Here’s a guide to the issues at stake:
How many states have laws that give public-sector workers the right to bargain collectively for better pay and benefits?
According to a 2009 report from the Congressional Research Service, 24 states have laws giving all public-sector workers the right to bargain collectively.
Nine states either do not have such laws or have laws that expressly forbid contracts between a public employer and a labor union.
The rest of the states have laws allowing some government employees collective bargaining rights. The laws vary from state to state, with some states limiting bargaining rights to specific types of workers, such as teachers or police officers.
Does government employees’ right to bargain collectively include the right to strike?
Not necessarily; in fact, many states do not permit public employees to strike.
Which state was the first to enact a law giving public-sector workers the right to bargain collectively for better pay and benefits?
Wisconsin, in 1959.
65 Dead In Devastating Christchurch Quake
A major search and rescue operation is underway in Christchurch this morning where at least 100 people remain trapped under rubble.
Construction workers and search and rescue specialists toiled under floodlights to dig out survivors and the dead from buildings flattened by the earthquake that ripped the city apart.
Dozens of search and rescue and medical staff have arrived to continue with the frantic recovery effort.
Yesterday's earthquake has claimed at least 65 lives and scores more are injured in what Prime Minister John Key says "may well be New Zealand's darkest day".
At least 65 people are dead after the shallow 6.3 earthquake hit 10km southeast of the city, just before 1pm. There have been constant aftershocks, as powerful as magnitude 5.7. The latest significant aftershock measured magnitude 5.0 and hit at 7.43pm.
The death toll is already the second highest from a New Zealand earthquake - outranked only by the 256 people killed in the violent 7.9 1931 Hawke's Bay quake, whose 70th anniversary was marked earlier this month.
Police have reported "multiple fatalities" at several locations in the downtown area, including in buses crushed by falling buildings.
Buildings have been destroyed with at least 100 people believed to be trapped inside. Rescuers warned some people remained trapped overnight.
More bodies were likely to be pulled from the rubble of the Canterbury Television building which collapsed in the earthquake, a man involved in assisting rescue teams in their hunt for survivors said tonight.
The Southern Demolition employee, who did not want to be named, told NZPA rescue personnel pulled bodies from the rubble while he was assisting in the recovery effort.
"We were working on one side of the building and on that side we managed to pull one person alive but we also pulled out a body. On the other side they pulled out four or five - I don't know if they were dead or alive.
"It was awful," he said.
He said rescue personnel were risking their lives to jack up parts of the building allow members of urban search and rescue to look for survivors.
"Those guys are brilliant. They get in there where they shouldn't be and if they hear anything everything is turned off while they locate where the sound is coming from," he said.
More here
Construction workers and search and rescue specialists toiled under floodlights to dig out survivors and the dead from buildings flattened by the earthquake that ripped the city apart.
Dozens of search and rescue and medical staff have arrived to continue with the frantic recovery effort.
Yesterday's earthquake has claimed at least 65 lives and scores more are injured in what Prime Minister John Key says "may well be New Zealand's darkest day".
At least 65 people are dead after the shallow 6.3 earthquake hit 10km southeast of the city, just before 1pm. There have been constant aftershocks, as powerful as magnitude 5.7. The latest significant aftershock measured magnitude 5.0 and hit at 7.43pm.
The death toll is already the second highest from a New Zealand earthquake - outranked only by the 256 people killed in the violent 7.9 1931 Hawke's Bay quake, whose 70th anniversary was marked earlier this month.
Police have reported "multiple fatalities" at several locations in the downtown area, including in buses crushed by falling buildings.
Buildings have been destroyed with at least 100 people believed to be trapped inside. Rescuers warned some people remained trapped overnight.
More bodies were likely to be pulled from the rubble of the Canterbury Television building which collapsed in the earthquake, a man involved in assisting rescue teams in their hunt for survivors said tonight.
The Southern Demolition employee, who did not want to be named, told NZPA rescue personnel pulled bodies from the rubble while he was assisting in the recovery effort.
"We were working on one side of the building and on that side we managed to pull one person alive but we also pulled out a body. On the other side they pulled out four or five - I don't know if they were dead or alive.
"It was awful," he said.
He said rescue personnel were risking their lives to jack up parts of the building allow members of urban search and rescue to look for survivors.
"Those guys are brilliant. They get in there where they shouldn't be and if they hear anything everything is turned off while they locate where the sound is coming from," he said.
More here
HARTWELL: No Compromise In Wisconsin
As we follow events in Wisconsin, a history lesson is appropriate. History has a message for Gov. Scott Walker and the people of Wisconsin whose electoral mandate he seeks to implement.
It is, very simply, that Mr. Walker should not compromise. Principled leadership will prevail over the orchestrated thuggery of the public unions, notwithstanding the unions’ conspicuous support from our nation’s most aggressive “community organizers.”
Turn back the clock to Boston in 1919. The country’s labor movement was increasingly powerful. There was widespread concern as strikes caused chaos in a number of industries. Having made great strides in the private sector, national labor organizations began attempting to organize municipal employees in selected cities. Among their targets was the Boston police force.
In August 1919, the Boston policemen’s “club” sought affiliation with the American Federation of Labor. The police commissioner promptly issued an order prohibiting any police officer from joining a labor union. The AFL immediately recognized the Boston Police Union. The battle lines were drawn, and the police union called a strike on Sept. 9.
After consulting with his attorney general, Massachusetts Gov. Calvin Coolidge backed the police commissioner, called in the state guard to maintain order and announced that the striking police would not be rehired. AFL leader Samuel Gompers demanded that Coolidge dismiss the police commissioner and reinstate the striking policemen.
Coolidge refused to capitulate to the demands of the union and its national labor allies. He also made clear the principled basis for his decision, saying: “There is no right to strike against the public safety by anybody, anytime, anywhere.” He later wrote that he acted with “faith that the people would respond to the truth.”
The people did respond, and their response was overwhelmingly favorable both in Massachusetts and across the country. Coolidge swiftly became a nationally prominent political figure. Ultimately he became a popular and successful president whose policies of reduced federal spending and lower taxes fostered sustained economic growth and prosperity.
Six decades later, another president confronted a strike by public employees and consciously followed Coolidge‘s example. President Reagan was elected with the support of a number of unions, including the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO). During the 1980 campaign, candidate Reagan was sympathetic to PATCO‘s quest for improved working conditions.
In August 1981, PATCO declared a nationwide strike, seeking a pay increase of $10,000 per worker (roughly 20 percent to 50 percent of then-current controller salaries) and a simultaneous cut in work hours from 40 to 32 each week. About 75 percent of the nation’s 17,000 controllers went on strike, precipitating a meltdown of the nation’s air transportation network.
With the backing of his transportation secretary, Reagan correctly declared the strike illegal, saying he would fire controllers who did not return to work within 48 hours. PATCO‘s leaders thought the government would have to compromise; they were wrong. Reagan fired 11,345 controllers who disobeyed his ultimatum and banned them from federal employment for life.
Reagan acted without consulting any opinion polls. Yet, as one biographer noted, he “proved that the right thing to do can also be politically advantageous.” In his memoirs, Reagan said his decision “convinced people who might have thought otherwise that I meant what I said.” The American people strongly supported Reagan‘s action, confirming that principle matters, particularly in responding to threats and attempts at intimidation.
There's more here
It is, very simply, that Mr. Walker should not compromise. Principled leadership will prevail over the orchestrated thuggery of the public unions, notwithstanding the unions’ conspicuous support from our nation’s most aggressive “community organizers.”
Turn back the clock to Boston in 1919. The country’s labor movement was increasingly powerful. There was widespread concern as strikes caused chaos in a number of industries. Having made great strides in the private sector, national labor organizations began attempting to organize municipal employees in selected cities. Among their targets was the Boston police force.
In August 1919, the Boston policemen’s “club” sought affiliation with the American Federation of Labor. The police commissioner promptly issued an order prohibiting any police officer from joining a labor union. The AFL immediately recognized the Boston Police Union. The battle lines were drawn, and the police union called a strike on Sept. 9.
After consulting with his attorney general, Massachusetts Gov. Calvin Coolidge backed the police commissioner, called in the state guard to maintain order and announced that the striking police would not be rehired. AFL leader Samuel Gompers demanded that Coolidge dismiss the police commissioner and reinstate the striking policemen.
Coolidge refused to capitulate to the demands of the union and its national labor allies. He also made clear the principled basis for his decision, saying: “There is no right to strike against the public safety by anybody, anytime, anywhere.” He later wrote that he acted with “faith that the people would respond to the truth.”
The people did respond, and their response was overwhelmingly favorable both in Massachusetts and across the country. Coolidge swiftly became a nationally prominent political figure. Ultimately he became a popular and successful president whose policies of reduced federal spending and lower taxes fostered sustained economic growth and prosperity.
Six decades later, another president confronted a strike by public employees and consciously followed Coolidge‘s example. President Reagan was elected with the support of a number of unions, including the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO). During the 1980 campaign, candidate Reagan was sympathetic to PATCO‘s quest for improved working conditions.
In August 1981, PATCO declared a nationwide strike, seeking a pay increase of $10,000 per worker (roughly 20 percent to 50 percent of then-current controller salaries) and a simultaneous cut in work hours from 40 to 32 each week. About 75 percent of the nation’s 17,000 controllers went on strike, precipitating a meltdown of the nation’s air transportation network.
With the backing of his transportation secretary, Reagan correctly declared the strike illegal, saying he would fire controllers who did not return to work within 48 hours. PATCO‘s leaders thought the government would have to compromise; they were wrong. Reagan fired 11,345 controllers who disobeyed his ultimatum and banned them from federal employment for life.
Reagan acted without consulting any opinion polls. Yet, as one biographer noted, he “proved that the right thing to do can also be politically advantageous.” In his memoirs, Reagan said his decision “convinced people who might have thought otherwise that I meant what I said.” The American people strongly supported Reagan‘s action, confirming that principle matters, particularly in responding to threats and attempts at intimidation.
There's more here
Earthquake Shakes Up Suez Canal As Iran Warships Approach
An earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale shook up residents at the entrance to the Suez Canal early Monday morning, 48 hours before two Iranian ships, a frigate and a supply vessel, are expected to enter the canal.
The National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research reported that tremors from the 3 a.m. quake lasted for 27 minutes, but caused no damage.
The ships had originally been expected to enter the Suez today (Monday), but Egyptian officials announced the delay this morning, without explanation.
Iran inexplicably announced Sunday morning that two of its warships had crossed the Suez, a report that was thoroughly denied by Egyptian authorities. Iranian media did not mention the ships on Monday, and the false report may have been for local consumption.
No Iranian ship has been allowed to pass through the Suez Canal since Iran's 1979 overthrow of the Shah and Egypt's signing of a peace treaty with Israel the same year.
Egypt’s agreeing to allow Iranian ships to pass through the Suez is seen by many analysts as a signal that the new regime in Egypt is leaning towards ties with Iran, but Suez Canal officials have pointed out that an international convention requires it allow passage to all ships. Egypt has reportedly agreed to allow the Iranian boats to pass through the canal en route to Syria.
The Obama administration is concerned about “what’s the cargo on board, where is it going, to whom, for what benefit," U.S. State Department spokesman Philip Crowley told reporters. Iran has said that the ships are headed for Syria for training, Crowley commented, as laughter was heard in the audience: “My initial response to that would be that we’re highly skeptical of that claim.”
More from INN
The National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research reported that tremors from the 3 a.m. quake lasted for 27 minutes, but caused no damage.
The ships had originally been expected to enter the Suez today (Monday), but Egyptian officials announced the delay this morning, without explanation.
Iran inexplicably announced Sunday morning that two of its warships had crossed the Suez, a report that was thoroughly denied by Egyptian authorities. Iranian media did not mention the ships on Monday, and the false report may have been for local consumption.
No Iranian ship has been allowed to pass through the Suez Canal since Iran's 1979 overthrow of the Shah and Egypt's signing of a peace treaty with Israel the same year.
Egypt’s agreeing to allow Iranian ships to pass through the Suez is seen by many analysts as a signal that the new regime in Egypt is leaning towards ties with Iran, but Suez Canal officials have pointed out that an international convention requires it allow passage to all ships. Egypt has reportedly agreed to allow the Iranian boats to pass through the canal en route to Syria.
The Obama administration is concerned about “what’s the cargo on board, where is it going, to whom, for what benefit," U.S. State Department spokesman Philip Crowley told reporters. Iran has said that the ships are headed for Syria for training, Crowley commented, as laughter was heard in the audience: “My initial response to that would be that we’re highly skeptical of that claim.”
More from INN
Hizbullah Army Helps Iran Suppress Massive Rallies
More than 1,000 Hizbullah terrorist army fighters have joined a huge Iranian police deployment to crush wide-scale protests that have left at least two people dead and hundreds injured or arrested.
The Islamic Republic regime in Iran has apparently decided to deploy an overwhelming army of police, Revolutionary Guards and Hizbullah members to squash the rallies. The government seeks to prevent the kind of momentum that toppled rulers of Tunisia and Egypt, and threaten kings and dictators in Libya, Yemen, Bahrain and other Muslim countries.
Foreign journalists have been barred from reporting on the Iranian demonstrations, and authorities have revoked work permits for 11 foreign journalists, photographers and cameramen for covering protests last week.
As in the protests nearly two years ago, after the disputed re-election of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, protesters have circumvented authorities by using Twitter and other social messaging systems to communicate among themselves and report to the outside world.
Black-clad Basiz riot police shot and killed two protesters, according to opposition websites, and a CNN reporter tweeted that he saw security forces beat more than a dozen people with steel batons in Tehran’s Revolution Square. Police on motorcycles were seen plowing into crowds on sidewalks and clubbing them indiscriminately.
The protests drew at least tens of thousands of people according to foreign media, although the opposition Iran in Focus site reported that “hundreds of thousands” demonstrators challenged the Islamic Republic regime. It reported that chants of "Down with dictators in Cairo, in Tehran" and "Seyed Ali will be overthrown," referring to Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, were heard in Tehran.
More here
The Islamic Republic regime in Iran has apparently decided to deploy an overwhelming army of police, Revolutionary Guards and Hizbullah members to squash the rallies. The government seeks to prevent the kind of momentum that toppled rulers of Tunisia and Egypt, and threaten kings and dictators in Libya, Yemen, Bahrain and other Muslim countries.
Foreign journalists have been barred from reporting on the Iranian demonstrations, and authorities have revoked work permits for 11 foreign journalists, photographers and cameramen for covering protests last week.
As in the protests nearly two years ago, after the disputed re-election of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, protesters have circumvented authorities by using Twitter and other social messaging systems to communicate among themselves and report to the outside world.
Black-clad Basiz riot police shot and killed two protesters, according to opposition websites, and a CNN reporter tweeted that he saw security forces beat more than a dozen people with steel batons in Tehran’s Revolution Square. Police on motorcycles were seen plowing into crowds on sidewalks and clubbing them indiscriminately.
The protests drew at least tens of thousands of people according to foreign media, although the opposition Iran in Focus site reported that “hundreds of thousands” demonstrators challenged the Islamic Republic regime. It reported that chants of "Down with dictators in Cairo, in Tehran" and "Seyed Ali will be overthrown," referring to Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, were heard in Tehran.
More here
Cain: Obama's Backing Of Unions 'Losing Proposition'
Atlanta talk radio host Herman Cain, a potential 2012 GOP presidential candidate, says as the American public’s backing of Wisconsin’s protesting unions wanes, President Barack Obama’s unabashed support of their demands is increasingly a “losing proposition.”
“I believe that the sentiment on the part of the American people for the unions is going down,” Cain Monday told Fox News’ Stuart Varney. “The fact is, what Gov. [Scott] Walker has proposed is that they do give up their right to collectively bargain for benefits, but nor their wages. Why? Benefits represent on average 46 percent of their total package. Gov. Walker inherited a $137 million deficit for this year, and if he does not do anything, it’s going to be $3.6 billion over the next two years.
“So they are totally in denial about the severity of the problem,” said Cain, who recently formed a presidential campaign exploratory committee. “So the more the American public finds out the facts associated with Gov. Walker’s proposal, the less the sentiment on behalf of the unions is with the American public.”
Varney asked whether President Barack Obama’s backing of the unions’ positions is going to hurt his political standing.
“It is a losing proposition for him,” Cain said. “Unions represent approximately 10 to 12 percent of the workforce: What about the rest of us 88 percent? What are we, chopped liver?
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“I believe that the sentiment on the part of the American people for the unions is going down,” Cain Monday told Fox News’ Stuart Varney. “The fact is, what Gov. [Scott] Walker has proposed is that they do give up their right to collectively bargain for benefits, but nor their wages. Why? Benefits represent on average 46 percent of their total package. Gov. Walker inherited a $137 million deficit for this year, and if he does not do anything, it’s going to be $3.6 billion over the next two years.
“So they are totally in denial about the severity of the problem,” said Cain, who recently formed a presidential campaign exploratory committee. “So the more the American public finds out the facts associated with Gov. Walker’s proposal, the less the sentiment on behalf of the unions is with the American public.”
Varney asked whether President Barack Obama’s backing of the unions’ positions is going to hurt his political standing.
“It is a losing proposition for him,” Cain said. “Unions represent approximately 10 to 12 percent of the workforce: What about the rest of us 88 percent? What are we, chopped liver?
Read more
CR passes House, step freeze left behind
Budget behemoth passes House without proposed amendments to withhold funding for within-grade increases or for promotions of federal employees. The House version of the continuing resolution proposes cutting $61 billion from hundreds of federal programs. The Senate is expected to propose holding spending at current levels.
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Rasmussen: Almost Half The U.S Backs Scott Walker
A sizable number of voters are following new Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker’s showdown with unionized public employees in his state, and nearly half side with the governor.
A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that 48% of Likely U.S. Voters agree more with the Republican governor in his dispute with union workers. Thirty-eight percent (38%) agree more with the unionized public employees, while 14% are undecided.
In an effort to close the state’s sizable budget deficit, Walker is proposing to eliminate collective bargaining for public employees including teachers on everything but wage issues. He is excluding public safety workers such as policemen and firemen from his plan.
Thirty-eight percent (38%) of voters think teachers, firemen and policemen should be allowed to go on strike, but 49% disagree and believe they should not have that right. Thirteen percent (13%) are not sure.
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A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that 48% of Likely U.S. Voters agree more with the Republican governor in his dispute with union workers. Thirty-eight percent (38%) agree more with the unionized public employees, while 14% are undecided.
In an effort to close the state’s sizable budget deficit, Walker is proposing to eliminate collective bargaining for public employees including teachers on everything but wage issues. He is excluding public safety workers such as policemen and firemen from his plan.
Thirty-eight percent (38%) of voters think teachers, firemen and policemen should be allowed to go on strike, but 49% disagree and believe they should not have that right. Thirteen percent (13%) are not sure.
Read more
D.C. Council Chair To Return Fully-Loaded SUV
WASHINGTON -- D.C. Council Chairman Kwame Brown is seeking to return an SUV the city leased for his use, WTOP has learned, following criticism over the vehicle's cost and leasing agreement.
The chairman is looking into the "financial feasibility of returning the SUV," says Brown spokesperson Traci Hughes.
Brown came under fire following a Washington Post report saying he asked for a fully loaded, extended wheelbase Lincoln Navigator, according to e-mails obtained through Freedom of Information Act requests.
A base-model Lincoln Navigator L Series costs $60,660, according to Kelly Blue Book. That doesn't include the "fully loaded" extra features, or an extra $3,000 for the 4x4 version.
The newspaper reported Sunday that the city is now paying for two leases because the first vehicle leased for Brown didn't have the black interior the new chairman wanted.
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The chairman is looking into the "financial feasibility of returning the SUV," says Brown spokesperson Traci Hughes.
Brown came under fire following a Washington Post report saying he asked for a fully loaded, extended wheelbase Lincoln Navigator, according to e-mails obtained through Freedom of Information Act requests.
A base-model Lincoln Navigator L Series costs $60,660, according to Kelly Blue Book. That doesn't include the "fully loaded" extra features, or an extra $3,000 for the 4x4 version.
The newspaper reported Sunday that the city is now paying for two leases because the first vehicle leased for Brown didn't have the black interior the new chairman wanted.
MORE
Advocates Urge Senators To Prevent Proposed Cut In Per-Pupil Spending
Despite the state’s continuing problems balancing its budget, education advocates – from State Superintendent Nancy Grasmick to community leaders – pleaded with members of a Senate budget subcommittee on Friday not to cut funds from schools. Gov. Martin O’Malley has proposed a total of $6.4 billion for public school education in his fiscal year 2012 budget, a figure he described as “level funding.” But the total amount winds up being 4.6% less than schools are receiving in the current fiscal year, due to a loss of federal stimulus dollars.
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Ex-Leader Of Charity for Disabled Gets 10 Years In Prison, Must Pay $65 Million
Yesterday, a judge sentenced the former CEO [1] of an El Paso charity to 10 years in prison and $65 million in restitution for corruption and embezzlement involving the federal government’s biggest jobs program for the disabled.
The sentence is the result of a federal probe launched after a 2006 investigation by reporters Les Zaitz, Jeff Kosseff, Byan Denson and photographer Faith Cathcart at The (Portland) Oregonian. Examining charities that hired the disabled nationwide, they found non-profit executives were cashing in huge paychecks [2] while their disabled workers made pennies an hour.
Source
The sentence is the result of a federal probe launched after a 2006 investigation by reporters Les Zaitz, Jeff Kosseff, Byan Denson and photographer Faith Cathcart at The (Portland) Oregonian. Examining charities that hired the disabled nationwide, they found non-profit executives were cashing in huge paychecks [2] while their disabled workers made pennies an hour.
Source
Texas Bill Aims for Guns on College Campuses
Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com
Lawmakers in Texas are expected to pass a bill allowing students and professors the right to conceal and carry on campus.
The Betrayal Of Public Workers
The Great Recession and its aftermath are entering a new phase in the United States, which could bring even more severe assaults on the living standards and basic rights of ordinary people than we have experienced thus far. This is because a wide swath of the country’s policy- and opinion-making elite have singled out public sector workers—including schoolteachers, healthcare workers, police officers and firefighters—as well as their unions and even their pensions as deadweight burdens sapping the economy’s vitality.
The Great Recession did blow a massive hole in state and municipal government finances, with tax receipts—including income, sales and property taxes—dropping sharply along with household incomes, spending and real estate values. Meanwhile, demand for public services, such as Medicaid and heating oil assistance, has risen as people’s circumstances have worsened. But let’s remember that the recession was caused by Wall Street hyper-speculation, not the pay scales of elementary school teachers or public hospital nurses.
Nonetheless, a rising chorus of commentators charge that public sector workers are overpaid relative to employees in comparable positions in the private sector. The fact that this claim is demonstrably false appears not to matter. Instead, the attacks are escalating. The most recent proposal gaining traction is to write new laws that would allow states to declare bankruptcy. This would let them rip up contracts with current public sector employees and walk away from their pension fund obligations. Only by declaring bankruptcy, Republican luminaries Jeb Bush and Newt Gingrich argued in the Los Angeles Times, will states be able to “reform their bloated, broken and underfunded pension systems for current and future workers.”
But this charge is emanating not only from the Republican right; in a front-page story on January 20, the New York Times reported on a more general trend spreading across the country in which “policymakers are working behind the scenes to come up with a way to let states declare bankruptcy and get out from under crushing debts, including the pensions they have promised to retired public workers.”
Leader Of Egyptian Unions To Wisconsin Protesters: "We Stand With You As You Stood With Us"
One of the most underreported stories about the pro-democracy movement in Egypt was the role of labor unions in the demonstrations, many of which were protesting against neoliberal right-wing economic policies just as much as they were protesting against the Mubarak dictatorship. During the uprising in that country, AFL-CIO president Richard Trumka praised the role of organized labor, saying, “The people’s movement for democracy in Egypt and the role unions are playing for freedom and worker rights inspires us and will not be forgotten.”
Now, as tens of thousands of union members and other Wisconsin residents are taking to the streets to protest against Gov. Scott Walker’s (R) attempt to abolish collective bargaining rights for most public workers, a leader of Egypt’s largest umbrella group of independent labor unions is praising the Wisconsin movement. In a videotaped statement, Kamal Abbas, the General Coordinator of the Centre for Trade Unions and Workers Services, tells the Wisconsin protesters, “We stand with you as you stood with us.” He says “no one believed” that the revolution against the Mubarak regime would succeed, yet they were able to bring the dictator down within 18 days. He encourages demonstrators to stay strong, saying, “Don’t give up on your rights. Victory always belongs to the people who stand firm and demand their just rights”:
No one believed that our revolution could succeed against the strongest dictatorship in the region. But in 18 days the revolution achieved the victory of the people. When the working class of Egypt joined the revolution on 9 and 10 February, the dictatorship was doomed and the victory of the people became inevitable. We want you to know that we stand on your side. Stand firm and don’t waiver. Don’t give up on your rights. Victory always belongs to the people who stand firm and demand their just rights.I am speaking to you from a place very close to Tahrir Square in Cairo, “Liberation Square”, which was the heart of the Revolution in Egypt. This is the place were many of our youth paid with their lives and blood in the struggle for our just rights. From this place, I want you to know that we stand with you as you stood with us. [...]
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House Approves SAN Supported Measure To Suspend EPA E15 Program; Senate Action Next
The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a provision to prevent the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from using agency funds to permit an increase in the amount of ethanol content in gasoline to 15% (E15). The provision is part of a larger bill to fund the federal government during fiscal year 2011 which must also be approved by the U.S. Senate. The SEMA Action Network (SAN) requested this action and worked hard to secure the vote. When signed into law by President Obama, this timely legislation will protect automotive enthusiasts and consumers from misfueling and other unnecessary harm.
On behalf of millions of auto enthusiasts across the country, SAN applauds the House of Representatives for acknowledging the need for more unbiased and independent testing on the impact of E15 on vehicles and engines. The provision suspends EPA’s premature efforts to permit E15 in the marketplace in fiscal year 2011. The SAN is now working to help pass a newly introduced bill (HR 748) to repeal the EPA E15 program altogether.
The SAN will continue to take proactive steps in Washington, D.C. to oppose E15 until there are conclusive scientific findings that demonstrate that it will not harm automobiles of any age as a result of corrosion or other chemical incompatibilities.
On behalf of millions of auto enthusiasts across the country, SAN applauds the House of Representatives for acknowledging the need for more unbiased and independent testing on the impact of E15 on vehicles and engines. The provision suspends EPA’s premature efforts to permit E15 in the marketplace in fiscal year 2011. The SAN is now working to help pass a newly introduced bill (HR 748) to repeal the EPA E15 program altogether.
The SAN will continue to take proactive steps in Washington, D.C. to oppose E15 until there are conclusive scientific findings that demonstrate that it will not harm automobiles of any age as a result of corrosion or other chemical incompatibilities.
Getting Rich Off The Taxpayers: School Administrators Double Dipping Pensions
School superintendents that jump from state to state in order to double or triple their pension takings
It must be nice to work for the government. Sadly it’s the most lucrative way to make a living in American history. To “win life’s lottery” all you have to do is get a job with the government — whether the federal or state government — at practically any level and voila, welcome to easy street. Here we have yet another case of the milking of the taxpayer by our “public servants,” this time it’s school superintendents that jump from state to state in order to double or triple their pension takings.
Hero's Unwelcome
Wounded Iraq vet jeered at Columbia
Columbia University students heckled a war hero during a town-hall meeting on whether ROTC should be allowed back on campus."Racist!" some students yelled at Anthony Maschek, a Columbia freshman and former Army staff sergeant awarded the Purple Heart after being shot 11 times in a firefight in northern Iraq in February 2008. Others hissed and booed the veteran.
Maschek, 28, had bravely stepped up to the mike Tuesday at the meeting to issue an impassioned challenge to fellow students on their perceptions of the military.
"It doesn't matter how you feel about the war. It doesn't matter how you feel about fighting," said Maschek. "There are bad men out there plotting to kill you."
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Demar Police Department Press Release
Incident: Controlled Substance Violations
Date: 02-10-11
Location: E Line Rd / Old Stage Rd Delmar, Md
Suspect: Thomas Bradfield 39 Y.O.A. Delmar, Md & Thomas Marshall 26 Y.O.A. Fruitland, Md
On February 10, 2011 Law Enforcement Officer of the Delmar Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Thomas Bradfield. The passenger was identified as Thomas Marshall. During the stop, a Wicomico County K-9 Unit scanned the vehicle for presence of controlled dangerous substance. The K-9 alerted on the odor of controlled substances and officers searched the vehicle and the area around the vehicle and subsequently located a plastic bag containing suspected cocaine. a box of sandwich bags, and 2 hypodermic needles. The amount of cocaine seized was of sufficient quantity to indicate distribution by Bradfield and Marshall.
The Officer transported Bradfield and Marshall to Wicomico County Detention Center where both were held on a $275,000.00 bond.
Charges:
Possession with Intent to Deliver Cocaine
Possession of Cocaine
Possession of Administrative Equipment
Date: 02-10-11
Location: E Line Rd / Old Stage Rd Delmar, Md
Suspect: Thomas Bradfield 39 Y.O.A. Delmar, Md & Thomas Marshall 26 Y.O.A. Fruitland, Md
On February 10, 2011 Law Enforcement Officer of the Delmar Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Thomas Bradfield. The passenger was identified as Thomas Marshall. During the stop, a Wicomico County K-9 Unit scanned the vehicle for presence of controlled dangerous substance. The K-9 alerted on the odor of controlled substances and officers searched the vehicle and the area around the vehicle and subsequently located a plastic bag containing suspected cocaine. a box of sandwich bags, and 2 hypodermic needles. The amount of cocaine seized was of sufficient quantity to indicate distribution by Bradfield and Marshall.
The Officer transported Bradfield and Marshall to Wicomico County Detention Center where both were held on a $275,000.00 bond.
Charges:
Possession with Intent to Deliver Cocaine
Possession of Cocaine
Possession of Administrative Equipment
Editorial On The National Anthem At The Super Bowl
“So, with all the kindness I can muster, I give this one piece of advice to the next pop star who is asked to sing the national anthem at a sporting event: save the vocal gymnastics and the physical gyrations for your concerts. Just sing this song the way you were taught to sing it in kindergarten — straight up, no styling.
Sing it with the constant awareness that there are soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines watching you from bases and outposts all over the world. Don’t make them cringe with your self-centered ego gratification.
Sing it as if you are standing before a row of 86-year-old WWII vets wearing their Purple Hearts, Silver Stars and flag pins on their cardigans and you want them to be proud of you for honoring them and the country they love — not because you want them to think you are a superstar musician. They could see that from the costumes, the makeup and the entourages.
Sing “The Star Spangled Banner” with the courtesy and humility that tells the audience that it is about America, not you.”
Christiana Mall Road Bridge To Be Rebuilt
Work Required to Allow for Future SR 1/I-95 Interchange
Dover -- The Department of Transportation (DelDOT) announces that Middletown based contractor Mumford & Miller has been awarded a $12.2 million contract to build the new Christiana Mall Road Bridge over Route 1. This project will include work to build the new bridge and roadway approach tie-ins to the Christiana Mall "ring-road". The project will also include redesign and drainage work to the existing storm water management pond.
Construction for this project will begin February 28, 2011, and is anticipated to be completed within 259 calendar days, pending weather. Currently the project will require nighttime lane closures only. At a future point, day time impacts are expected for short periods. Notification will be provided in advance of those conditions when they are expected.
This work is part of a multi-year, multi-project I-95 Improvement Program that has included work at the Churchman's Road/Route 7 Intersection, the Churchman's Road Bridge over I-95; the I-95 Fifth Lane widening; and the reconstruction of the I-95 toll plaza in Newark.
The final project of the I-95 Improvement Program, expected to begin later this year, will include the construction of the new I-95 & Route 1 interchange ramp system. Increasing traffic volumes and development south of Route 1 has led to deteriorating levels of service within the area of Christiana Mall and the Route 1/I-95 interchange. This project will add high speed connecting ramps from both northbound Route 1 to northbound I-95, and from southbound I-95 to southbound Route 1, as well as the removal of the current Christiana Mall Road Bridge. The relocating of the bridge is necessary for the construction of the high speed connecting ramps.
Dover -- The Department of Transportation (DelDOT) announces that Middletown based contractor Mumford & Miller has been awarded a $12.2 million contract to build the new Christiana Mall Road Bridge over Route 1. This project will include work to build the new bridge and roadway approach tie-ins to the Christiana Mall "ring-road". The project will also include redesign and drainage work to the existing storm water management pond.
Construction for this project will begin February 28, 2011, and is anticipated to be completed within 259 calendar days, pending weather. Currently the project will require nighttime lane closures only. At a future point, day time impacts are expected for short periods. Notification will be provided in advance of those conditions when they are expected.
This work is part of a multi-year, multi-project I-95 Improvement Program that has included work at the Churchman's Road/Route 7 Intersection, the Churchman's Road Bridge over I-95; the I-95 Fifth Lane widening; and the reconstruction of the I-95 toll plaza in Newark.
The final project of the I-95 Improvement Program, expected to begin later this year, will include the construction of the new I-95 & Route 1 interchange ramp system. Increasing traffic volumes and development south of Route 1 has led to deteriorating levels of service within the area of Christiana Mall and the Route 1/I-95 interchange. This project will add high speed connecting ramps from both northbound Route 1 to northbound I-95, and from southbound I-95 to southbound Route 1, as well as the removal of the current Christiana Mall Road Bridge. The relocating of the bridge is necessary for the construction of the high speed connecting ramps.
