Jasun Weistling has barricaded himself in his house in West OC right now.
Still not sure what road, but they just brought in the SWAT and a Robot.
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
Scraps From The King’s Table
By Delegate Mike McDermott
It has long been said, “What’s good for the goose is good for the gander”…unless, of course, the gander is Baltimore City. For decades on end, Baltimore has always been the favorite son at the table of the king, and, when times were good, it was something to be ignored. Today, times are not so good.
The current budget crisis has stressed local revenues for municipal and county governments to the breaking point. A good portion of that stress is the loss of their share of Maryland’s Highway User Funds. Beginning two years ago, the normal raids on Maryland’s, so called, “Trust Funds” dipped further than ever before to cover the gaping holes in the O’Malley budget. At that time, and ever since, 90% of all Highway User Revenues historically returned to local government in all of the realm never left the castle, with the noticeable exception of Baltimore City. While the rest of Maryland tax payers were figuring out where to come up with local money to patch potholes, while still paying an extremely high gas tax, Baltimore City continued to pave their streets with gold. They were able to do what the rest of Maryland could not because they retained 87% of their portion of the Highway User Funds. Hardly fair or equitable, but since when does that figure into Maryland budget deliberations?
Last week, another Baltimore diversion was uncovered in the formula utilized in divvying up the local portion of the slots proceeds. It seems the new casino at Ocean Downs had a good month and the County Commissioners, Berlin, Ocean Pines, and Ocean City were thinking about their amount of the take. After doing the math, the state provided them their figures which were significantly lower that each had expected. That’s when it was revealed that a provision in the bill signed to create the slots carried a sweetheart deal for Baltimore City to the tune of 18% off the top. This is the same Baltimore City that rejected the notion of a casino in their backyard, while demanding that rural Marylanders take one in their front yards. The 18% cut, which apparently missed the eyes of our local delegations and elected officials, is the cost of passing legislation when large numbers of votes are on the table being moved about like pawns in a game of Chess. They do nothing, provide no service, suffer no infrastructure strains, and yet they get a bigger cut than our own local governments who bear the load.
I hear a lot of talk in Annapolis about how we are “One Maryland”. This is supposed to translate into voting for taxes, fees, regulations, and legislation that may be good for certain jurisdictions, but not necessarily for the one you actually represent in the House. The “One Maryland” concept is predominately trumpeted by the metropolitan districts for, when they write a check, it usually involves many zeros that winds up being paid for by all Marylanders.
It is quite clear that formulas for Education Funds favor Baltimore City as well. For instance, Worcester County receives $2770.00 per pupil from the Maryland Board of Education per year, while Baltimore City pupils receive $10,655.00 for the same purpose. How in the world can this disparity be justified? Only through convoluted formulas created for the sole purpose of transferring wealth from one group of citizens to another. Ironically, no matter the funds that are sent in to aid the city, the results are dismal. In fact, we merely hear the cry of “more, more”.
The recent legislation attempting to lower the boom on rural Maryland is the ban on septic systems as we know them. I have named the governor’s proposal his “No Crapper Left Behind” initiative. By now, most of us know of the attempt to supplant local development codes with strict state restrictions that would all but shut down any significant development in rural Maryland. It has been proffered, once again, by representatives and a State Secretary of Planning who did not reach out to rural Maryland for comments or concerns. Though they held up several jurisdictions on the shore as prime examples of how development should be managed, the crowd on the stage did not include any representation from those jurisdictions. I find this quite typical whenever there is an effort to expand centralized government in Maryland.
For the most part, the attack on rural Maryland revolves around control. The best delivery system for government is that which is local, accessible, and quickly responsive to the taxpayer. Consolidating power in one place can often lead to a “one size fits all” approach to law and planning. It further enhances the chance that those who control who sits at the table also decide who eats, and how much. We have seen it with Education, we’ve seen it with slots, we’ve seen it with “Trust Funds”, we’ve seen it with development, and we’ve seen it with general tax dollars. In rural Maryland, we’ve seen enough.
Wicomico County Councilman Bob Caldwell Battles Cancer Again
He did tell me that he has informed the County Council, close friends and of course family members. Bob will not be attending the next Council Meeting due to treatments.
Superman is a kind of veteran when it comes to fighting cancer and with our prayers he'll do so again.
If you'd like to send Bob a message: Email: bcaldwell@wicomicocounty.org
Supreme Court Sides With Protesters At Military Funerals
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
2 U.S. Airmen Shot Dead At Airport In Germany
2 others wounded after attack on Air Force bus; suspect from Kosovo detained
FRANKFURT, Germany — A gunman fired at U.S. Air Force personnel on a bus outside Frankfurt airport Wednesday, killing two airmen and wounding two others before being taken into custody, authorities said.
More
Casino At Ocean Downs
The employees at the Casino are not happy. Low wages are the biggest gripe although there are more.
Theye were led to believe that these would be good jobs and all they are a hair better then minimum wage positions. They had Rickman's hand picked union present them with a contract and after two months of negotiations all they came up with was a .25 an hour raise, which would have been just enough to pay the union dues.
The meeting where this was presented ended in a fight with the police being called.
County Council Stands Up for Taxpayers
Thank you Gail Bartkovich! Thank you Bob Culver! Thank you Joe Holloway! Thank you Matt Holloway! Thank you Stevie Prettyman! These five Wicomico County council members, facing heavy political pressure from the Board of Education and the Daily Times, stood firm for county taxpayers last night by voting to defer construction of a new Bennett Middle School for at least one year.
While our tax dollars were being used to finance robo calls to parents, as well as an e-mail campaign, the majority of the council demanded a little accountability from Superintendent John Fredericksen and the Wicomico County Board of Education. We can only hope that Fredericksen and his merry little band of bureaucrats heard the message.
As we have noted in previous posts, there is a great deal of community support for a new Bennett Middle School. Unfortunately for the children and taxpayers of Wicomico County, Fredericksen, et al, seem to believe that support for a new school building (and a 
While Fredericksen’s crew attempt to portray council members as somehow being “anti-education”, citizens need to be reminded of a few facts. Bartkovich and Prettyman were key players in getting the new Bennett High School approved. Both women caught flak from multiple sides in their fight to secure approval, funding, AND a means for the county to pay for the project. While Fredericksen and BOE president Michelle Wright used the Daily Times to persuade citizens that they would lower the cost of the Bennett Middle project, the BOE was telling the School Building Commission that the cost was “locked down” and that even modest changes could not be implemented.
Whether I have agreed or disagreed with the council members who stood up for taxpayers last night (as I disagreed with my friend Bob Caldwell in his vote last evening), I have to say that they have always been honest. Sadly, we can’t say the same about the bureaucrats over on Long Avenue.
STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR O’MALLEY ON SALE OF SEVERSTAL SPARROWS POINT
RG Steel LLC to return, retrain and retain nearly 2,000 steelworkers in Maryland
ANNAPOLIS, MD (March 2, 2011) – Governor Martin O’Malley issued the following statement today on Severstal’s agreement to sell its Sparrows Point steel plant to RG Steel LLC.
“The announcement today that RG Steel Inc. has agreed to purchase the Sparrows Point mill from Severstal US Holdings LLC holds the promise that the plant’s long tradition of manufacturing and steel production – and of providing jobs with family-supporting wages – will continue.
“For generations, Sparrows Point has been a major employer and a significant economic asset for the State. We welcome RG Steel and its headquarters to Maryland and stand ready to help the company and the United Steelworkers return, retrain and retain nearly 2,000 steelworkers in Sparrows Point.”
WICOMICO COUNCIL REJECTS THE FREDDY-RICKY FABRICATIONS!
Elections do have consequences – and they should.
Kudos to 5 of the 6 Republican members of the Wicomico County Council who voted to move the Wicomico Middle School back 1 year in the County’s Capital Improvement Plan. Doing so will serve the public interest in two ways.
First, it should – and, hopefully, will – act as a catalyst to redesign of the facility to substantially reduce the cost to build and subsequently to operate it. To date the Board of Ed. has flatly disregarded suggestions for changes that would do so. And a major redesign would reduce those costs greatly.
Second, the Council has reacted appropriately – with disgust – to the excessive political posturing and propaganda promulgated by both the Superintendent of Schools and the County Exec. As late as yesterday morning Rick Pollitt was trying to hoodwink the public, claiming that if the school remained on the fast track the Board would make changes to reduce the cost – after refusing to do so for months.
Those who may be angered by the Council’s decision should direct their criticism to Dr. Frederickson and the Board, as well as Pollitt. Their attitude, bordering upon arrogance, is the real cause of delay. The rest of us should thank the members of the Council who had the fortitude to "just say no" to another Taj Mahal.
Clearly, and fortunately, this Council is much different than the predecessor.
Kudos to 5 of the 6 Republican members of the Wicomico County Council who voted to move the Wicomico Middle School back 1 year in the County’s Capital Improvement Plan. Doing so will serve the public interest in two ways.
First, it should – and, hopefully, will – act as a catalyst to redesign of the facility to substantially reduce the cost to build and subsequently to operate it. To date the Board of Ed. has flatly disregarded suggestions for changes that would do so. And a major redesign would reduce those costs greatly.
Second, the Council has reacted appropriately – with disgust – to the excessive political posturing and propaganda promulgated by both the Superintendent of Schools and the County Exec. As late as yesterday morning Rick Pollitt was trying to hoodwink the public, claiming that if the school remained on the fast track the Board would make changes to reduce the cost – after refusing to do so for months.
Those who may be angered by the Council’s decision should direct their criticism to Dr. Frederickson and the Board, as well as Pollitt. Their attitude, bordering upon arrogance, is the real cause of delay. The rest of us should thank the members of the Council who had the fortitude to "just say no" to another Taj Mahal.
Clearly, and fortunately, this Council is much different than the predecessor.
Salisbury Election Day
Clearly the vast majority of voters were seniors and as expected the voter turn out was very low. That didn't stop candidates from getting to the polls to wave their signs.
Salisbury News predicted Tim Spies would gain the most votes. However, we expect Terry Cohen to be the front runner in the general election with Spies right behind her. They will be the top two vote getter's.
Laura Mitchell brought in surprising numbers with Muir Boda not far behind. Over the next 30+ days, these two will have to work really hard to place 3rd.
Cohen & Spies celebrated their victory last night at Vinny's. I think you're going to see a lot more press releases from this point forward from all candidates still in the race.
Today's Survey Question
BREAKING NEWS
Frankfurt, Germany, airport says shots fired 'near or on' bus carrying U.S. troops
More to come.
Alex Guerrero Is The Main Event At Harrington Raceway & Casino
I hope you all enjoyed our last fight. We at Team Guerrero were very pleased with every aspect of the weekend. From a first class weigh-in, at the Fountains, to a night of great fights that included a stellar performance by Fernando and a dominating performance by Alex, right down to the the after-fight party, we could not have asked for more. The fans were great, the media was all over the event and ESPN was thrilled at the energy we provided for the first ever 3D boxing broadcast, together we set a perfect stage.
In the end, Fernando, all the fighters as well as the fans and our community, did themselves proud. As always it would not be possible without Prizefight Promotions, all of our loyal sponsors and our advertisers. As good as it was, it is time now to move forward.
So lets look to the future, and what great stuff we have going on for the future.
Coming on the heels of a dominating win, in which Alexis Guerrero had his opponents dazed and hoping to hear a bell other than the ones he already heard ringing in his head, Alexis will be headlining as the Main Event on Sat, March, 19th at the Harrington Raceway and Casino, in Harrington DE. Many fans were confused when Fernando's fights ended and did not understand that Alex was yet to fight.They missed a great fight but the people that did stay behind saw the talent, power and speed that I have talked about so much.
Now there is no question where the spotlight will shine and when. For those that missed him in Salisbury and for those that watched him and can't wait to see his next fight, tickets are on sale at Mr. Curley's, Exotic Sound and Tint, Classy Cats Barber shop and at Gomez' Barber shop. Ticket range from $25-$55 and 8 person ringside tables are available for $500.
Come out and take a short ride north and support our next rising star, Alexis Guerrero, then enjoy a night in the casino.
Mayor, County Executives Line Up Behind Gas Tax
Local jurisdictions say 10-cent hike necessary to repair roads, fill potholes
Arguing that Marylanders will face a proliferation of potholes without more state money to repair local roads, Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and three county executives urged lawmakers Tuesday to support a 10-cent-a-gallon increase in the gas tax.Rawlings-Blake joined County Executives Ken Ulman of Howard County, Ike Leggett of Montgomery County and Rushern Baker of Prince George's County in endorsing an increase in the state's 23.5-cent-a-gallon gasoline tax as long as the money goes to local jurisdictions and isn't used to balance the state's budget.
The local government leaders want the increase coupled with a restoration of state road repair money to their jurisdictions and a constitutional amendment that would protect the Transportation Trust Fund from the type of "raids" that have been used in recent years to close shortfalls in the general fund.
More
Senate Bill Blocks Lawmaker Pay During A Shutdown
Shutdown could occur if GOP, Obama can't agree on spending bill for rest of fiscal year
WASHINGTON — The Senate has unanimously passed legislation to prevent lawmakers and the president from getting paid if the government shuts down.
The measure also would apply if the government defaults on its debts and would block members of Congress or the president from getting back pay when the government reopens.
A partial shutdown of the government could occur if Republicans and Obama can't agree on a spending bill for the rest of the fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30. A measure funding the government for another two weeks is on track to pass and avert a shutdown Friday.
Guardian Angels To Protect Metro Riders
In response to NBC Washington's report about the beating of a man at a Metro station by a gang of teenagers, the Guardian Angels have said they will increase patrols on trains and buses.
The Guardian Angels said they are reacting to an increase in teen violence on public transportation in the D.C. area.
As 14 Wisconsin Democrats Run, Illinois Tea Party Activists Give Chase
To say that 14 Wisconsin Democrats are “on the lam” in Illinois is an understatement. Relentlessly hounded by Illinois Tea Party members, they are, truly, on the run.
No matter which podunk border town the senators try to hide in, they are running all the time thanks to highly effective efforts of conservative activists who have streamlined their “search party” by utilizing Facebook, email blasts and quick video posts. Who knew the Tea Party would be so good at bounty hunting 2.0?
On Thursday, The Missing 14 unsubtly crashed the Clock Tower Resort’s Chocoholic Frolic in Rockford, Ill. David Hale and his camera began stalking the resort, pestering the senators. By Saturday, some of the Missing 14 had skipped over to the city’s Holiday Inn — and were reportedly seen at Hooters having a last supper of sorts — when Hale waltzed into the hotel’s lobby and confronted them with his camera, asking questions like, “Senators! Why won’t you go home and do your job?”
Probably aware that a posse of 14 pasty bureaucrats will stick out in a crowd, the senators did what any fugitive chain gang would do: They cut the links and went in separate directions. One did the smart thing and disappeared into the polished back alleys of the Windy City, where only the New York Times could find him.
By the following Monday, eight of the 14 had gone 30 miles northeast to the two-hotel town of Harvard (pop. 9,000ish) thinking it might be a good place to “hide.” It took just one tip from a “concerned citizen,” however, before a few amateur Illinois activists descended upon the hotel, causing enough commotion for the senators to quickly pack it up.
Mary Alger, the coordinator of the Crystal Lake Tea Party was grocery shopping when she got the tip. Dropping off her produce, making a quick sign and skirting 15 minutes northwest to Harvard, she met up with “Doc,” a member of the Northern Illinois Tea Party who holds down a full-time job when he’s not hunting Democrats. Lori White, a Spring Grove resident, showed up after responding to a Facebook post on the Rockford Tea Party page asking if anyone near Harvard was willing to drop by the hotel, preferably with a video camera.
The hotel called the cops on Doc and Mary because they were trespassing, so Doc skedaddled and at a nearby McDonald’s, Mary waited for White to arrive. Unfortunately, White got there just in time to see four senators piled into a tiny Mazda behind her — the make, model and license plate matching a response to a Facebook post. As she fumbled for her video camera, the senators sped off, up Highway 23. Though she tried to follow, White lost them. Though that won’t stop her helping out the other bounty hunters.
More here
No matter which podunk border town the senators try to hide in, they are running all the time thanks to highly effective efforts of conservative activists who have streamlined their “search party” by utilizing Facebook, email blasts and quick video posts. Who knew the Tea Party would be so good at bounty hunting 2.0?
On Thursday, The Missing 14 unsubtly crashed the Clock Tower Resort’s Chocoholic Frolic in Rockford, Ill. David Hale and his camera began stalking the resort, pestering the senators. By Saturday, some of the Missing 14 had skipped over to the city’s Holiday Inn — and were reportedly seen at Hooters having a last supper of sorts — when Hale waltzed into the hotel’s lobby and confronted them with his camera, asking questions like, “Senators! Why won’t you go home and do your job?”
Probably aware that a posse of 14 pasty bureaucrats will stick out in a crowd, the senators did what any fugitive chain gang would do: They cut the links and went in separate directions. One did the smart thing and disappeared into the polished back alleys of the Windy City, where only the New York Times could find him.
By the following Monday, eight of the 14 had gone 30 miles northeast to the two-hotel town of Harvard (pop. 9,000ish) thinking it might be a good place to “hide.” It took just one tip from a “concerned citizen,” however, before a few amateur Illinois activists descended upon the hotel, causing enough commotion for the senators to quickly pack it up.
Mary Alger, the coordinator of the Crystal Lake Tea Party was grocery shopping when she got the tip. Dropping off her produce, making a quick sign and skirting 15 minutes northwest to Harvard, she met up with “Doc,” a member of the Northern Illinois Tea Party who holds down a full-time job when he’s not hunting Democrats. Lori White, a Spring Grove resident, showed up after responding to a Facebook post on the Rockford Tea Party page asking if anyone near Harvard was willing to drop by the hotel, preferably with a video camera.
The hotel called the cops on Doc and Mary because they were trespassing, so Doc skedaddled and at a nearby McDonald’s, Mary waited for White to arrive. Unfortunately, White got there just in time to see four senators piled into a tiny Mazda behind her — the make, model and license plate matching a response to a Facebook post. As she fumbled for her video camera, the senators sped off, up Highway 23. Though she tried to follow, White lost them. Though that won’t stop her helping out the other bounty hunters.
More here
Bernanke Says GOP Cuts Won't Derail Recovery
Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke says a plan from House Republicans to cut $61 billion in spending this year would not harm economic growth.
The GOP's proposed spending cuts, passed as part of a continuing resolution, would probably reduce "growth on the margins" and lower gross domestic product by only one- or two-tenths of a percent, Bernanke told the Senate Banking Committee.
The Fed chairman's estimate contrasts with recent reports from Goldman Sachs and Moody's Analytics that predicted economic harm from a $61 billion spending reduction.
The Goldman Sachs report released last week predicted that the Republican spending cuts would slow growth by as much as 2 percentage points in the second and third quarters of this year. Senate Democrats pounced on the analysis to argue that Republicans were trying to "drag our economy back into a recession."
But Bernanke said that analysis is off the mark.
"Two percent [reduction in growth] is enormous and would be based on $300 billion in cuts," Bernanke told the panel in his semiannual report to Congress. "Sixty billion to $100 billion isn't sufficient to create that kind of effect."
More here
The GOP's proposed spending cuts, passed as part of a continuing resolution, would probably reduce "growth on the margins" and lower gross domestic product by only one- or two-tenths of a percent, Bernanke told the Senate Banking Committee.
The Fed chairman's estimate contrasts with recent reports from Goldman Sachs and Moody's Analytics that predicted economic harm from a $61 billion spending reduction.
The Goldman Sachs report released last week predicted that the Republican spending cuts would slow growth by as much as 2 percentage points in the second and third quarters of this year. Senate Democrats pounced on the analysis to argue that Republicans were trying to "drag our economy back into a recession."
But Bernanke said that analysis is off the mark.
"Two percent [reduction in growth] is enormous and would be based on $300 billion in cuts," Bernanke told the panel in his semiannual report to Congress. "Sixty billion to $100 billion isn't sufficient to create that kind of effect."
More here
Rep. Rangel: Abolishing Unions' Collective Bargaining 'Close To Slavery'
State governments taking steps to "abolish" collective bargaining rights for workers is similar to slavery, Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) contends.
Speaking Monday at a Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) event about GOP-proposed budget cuts, Rangel brought up Republican governors' plans to target public sector workers, as in the case of Gov. Scott Walker's budget-fix plan in Wisconsin.
“It doesn’t really make any sense at all for the president of the United States to talk about creating jobs in order to improve the economy and find out that mayors and governors are talking about laying off people," Rangel said. "Collective bargaining is something that is so close to slavery in terms of abolishing it, that it is not an American concept to tell people that they cannot discuss their economic position."
Rangel's statement is one of the strongest rebukes of Republican-controlled state governments' efforts to cut spending and go after public-employee unions.
Walker's plan would not entirely abolish collective bargaining for state workers, but it would limit their ability to collectively bargain over everything but wages. The plan does not apply to police, firefighters or state troopers. Walker's proposal would also force workers to pay an increased share of their pension and healthcare benefits.
More
[Note to Rep. Rangel: Anyone who doesn't like their compensation or working conditions is completely free to seek other employment. --Editor]
Speaking Monday at a Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) event about GOP-proposed budget cuts, Rangel brought up Republican governors' plans to target public sector workers, as in the case of Gov. Scott Walker's budget-fix plan in Wisconsin.
“It doesn’t really make any sense at all for the president of the United States to talk about creating jobs in order to improve the economy and find out that mayors and governors are talking about laying off people," Rangel said. "Collective bargaining is something that is so close to slavery in terms of abolishing it, that it is not an American concept to tell people that they cannot discuss their economic position."
Rangel's statement is one of the strongest rebukes of Republican-controlled state governments' efforts to cut spending and go after public-employee unions.
Walker's plan would not entirely abolish collective bargaining for state workers, but it would limit their ability to collectively bargain over everything but wages. The plan does not apply to police, firefighters or state troopers. Walker's proposal would also force workers to pay an increased share of their pension and healthcare benefits.
More
[Note to Rep. Rangel: Anyone who doesn't like their compensation or working conditions is completely free to seek other employment. --Editor]
Black Lawmakers: GOP Budget Plan A Step Back For Civil Rights
Black lawmakers on Monday said GOP-proposed budget cuts would move the country in the opposite direction of the civil rights movement.
The lawmakers, all members of the Congressional Black Caucus, used the last day of Black History Month to argue the GOP-backed cuts would fall hardest on black Americans.
"It's really especially poignant that this year during Black History Month, the Republican leadership has proposed a budget for fiscal year 2011 that will fall most heavily, mind you, on the backs of the most vulnerable in our society: African Americans, Latinos, and poor, those who have been shut of the American dream," said Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), who described the cuts as ill-timed and destructive.
"At a time when we should be remembering and uplifting the accomplishments and contributions of African Americans, to the history, culture, civil rights and economy of America, we are literally during this month debating steps that will severely undercut and undermine that legacy," she said.
Assistant Minority Leader James Clyburn (D-S.C.) also connected the spending cuts to civil rights, and said improving the GOP spending bill is imperative. "I do believe that if we focus on these continuing resolutions that we've been debating, we can have a much better future than the history has been for African Americans in this country," Clyburn said.
"This is not befitting of the final day of African American History [Month]," added Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee of the spending cut plans.
More here
The lawmakers, all members of the Congressional Black Caucus, used the last day of Black History Month to argue the GOP-backed cuts would fall hardest on black Americans.
"It's really especially poignant that this year during Black History Month, the Republican leadership has proposed a budget for fiscal year 2011 that will fall most heavily, mind you, on the backs of the most vulnerable in our society: African Americans, Latinos, and poor, those who have been shut of the American dream," said Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), who described the cuts as ill-timed and destructive.
"At a time when we should be remembering and uplifting the accomplishments and contributions of African Americans, to the history, culture, civil rights and economy of America, we are literally during this month debating steps that will severely undercut and undermine that legacy," she said.
Assistant Minority Leader James Clyburn (D-S.C.) also connected the spending cuts to civil rights, and said improving the GOP spending bill is imperative. "I do believe that if we focus on these continuing resolutions that we've been debating, we can have a much better future than the history has been for African Americans in this country," Clyburn said.
"This is not befitting of the final day of African American History [Month]," added Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee of the spending cut plans.
More here
Good Question
Good morning, Joe.
Maybe this can be discussion fodder: Over the past few weeks, we have seen a dramatic and unprecedented display by people in the Middle East, rising up to not only voice concerns about thier oppresive governments, but also successfully overthrowing said oppressors and forging a new future and identity for themselves (it is only a matter of time in Lybia.)
Our military is in several countries in that area for many reasons, but in part to help the people forge their own political futures and identities.
I think the people of the Middle East are clearly showing us that they are fully capable of taking care of thier own countries and dispatching the enemies of freedom and democracy without any help other than media coverage.
So, why don't we just leave and get out of their way?
Billy Joel Song
This song and its title was the answer to one question of Final Jeopardy -- only one person got it right.
Question was (paraphrased): "What 1980's song do history teachers praise for its educational value?"
Question was (paraphrased): "What 1980's song do history teachers praise for its educational value?"
I never could understand all the references on Billy Joel's song -- fortunately, with this VIDEO, given the pictures, now I can "see" what my "ears" couldn't. Apparently, it's Joel's homage to the 40-years of historical headlines since his birth (1949). WAY TOO COOL -- wish I could have appreciated the depths of this song when it was released. Twenty years later, I'm in awe of what Joel was able to put into music and lyrics lasting only a few minutes.
Whether you are a Billy Joel fan or not, you probably remember his great song, "We Didn't Start the Fire." Here it is, set to pictures... Very, very cool. Had to share this one. It's a neat flashback through the past half century. I never did know the words. Turn up the volume, sit back, and enjoy a review of 50 years of history in less than 3 minutes! Thanks to Billy Joel and some guy from the University of Chicago with a lot of spare time ...& Google.
Top left gives you full screen...top right lets you pause. Bottom left shows the year. The older you are, the more pictures you will recognize. Anyone over age 65 should remember over 90% of what they see. But it's great at any age.
GO HERE to watch.
Presidents Day
I was eating lunch today with my 10 year old grandson when his mom asked him
"What is tomorrow?"
He said "It's President's Day"
...
She asked "What does that mean?" .... I was waiting for something profound...
He said
"President's Day is when Obama steps out of the White House and if he sees his shadow,
we have 2 more years of unemployment."
I almost snorted my iced tea
"What is tomorrow?"
He said "It's President's Day"
...
She asked "What does that mean?" .... I was waiting for something profound...
He said
"President's Day is when Obama steps out of the White House and if he sees his shadow,
we have 2 more years of unemployment."
I almost snorted my iced tea
Rehoboth Beach Home Invasion Suspect Sought
- 100 block Beachfield Road, Rehoboth Beach, DE
Date of Occurrence:
- Saturday, February 26, 2011 9:13 p.m.
Victim:
- 81 year old male
Suspect:
- William J. Maichle Jr., 31, Lewes, DE
Charges:
- Robbery First Degree
- Burglary First Degree
- Criminal Mischief
Resume:
Rehoboth-Delaware State Police Troop 4 Major Crimes Detectives have obtained warrants and are searching for a Lewes man after being connected to a home invasion robbery that occurred in Rehoboth Beach, DE last Saturday night, February 26, 2011.
The home invasion occurred when the suspect forced his way into the home of the 81 year old victim, sprayed an unknown substance into the victim’s eyes and then removed the victim’s wallet from his pocket, and fled.
During the investigation Major Crimes Detectives obtained information to link William J. Maichle, Jr. 31, of Lewis to the home invasion.
Detectives have obtained warrants charging William J. Maichle Jr. with Robbery First Degree, Burglary First Degree, and Criminal Mischief.
If anyone knows the whereabouts of Maichle call 911 immediately. If anyone has any information in reference to this incident, they are asked to contact Major Crimes Detectives at Troop 4 at 302-856-5850 ext. 206 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333. Information may also be provided via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com
Send an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword "DSP."
Former Mayor's Car Booted For Unpaid Tickets
WASHINGTON - D.C. Councilmember and former mayor Marion Barry has racked up so many parking tickets that his car has been booted.
TBD.com reports that a boot was placed on Barry's Jaguar while it was parked on the street outside his Southeast home.
Records show that Barry has nine unpaid parking tickets, with cumulative fines of $705. A notice on his vehicle said Barry would have to pay at least $520 worth of tickets to have the boot removed.
More
TBD.com reports that a boot was placed on Barry's Jaguar while it was parked on the street outside his Southeast home.
Records show that Barry has nine unpaid parking tickets, with cumulative fines of $705. A notice on his vehicle said Barry would have to pay at least $520 worth of tickets to have the boot removed.
More
Rolls Royce Unveils $1.6 Million Electric Car
More »
Kansas Lawmakers Consider Letting Motorcyclists Run Red Lights
Citing stoplights that run on sensors incapable of detecting diminutive vehicles, the Kansas House of Representatives passed a bill that will allow motorcyclists and riders of scooters and bicycles to legally run "dead reds." Missouri has a similar law on the books.
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Watch This Malfunctioning Escalator Fling Its Passengers
For me, malfunctioning escalators are the stuff of nightmares. I still secretly fear that up escalators are going to eat me. So this people-flinging Metro station escalator from the day of Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert's "Rally to Restore Sanity and/or Fear" last year has given me a whole new category of escalator malfunctions to fear.
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Legislation To Ban Teen Tanning Gets Support
Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com
The American Academy of Pediatrics is supporting legislation to ban tanning for children under 18. But it's raising questions about big government.
Stinkbugs
When a homeowner gets fed up with stinkbugs, they can call an exterminator. What do states and even entire regions do when faced with the same messy problem? The Baltimore Sun reports that the Agriculture Department may have already come up with an answer. USDA tests show that tiny, parasitic Asian wasps will hijack stink bug eggs for their own young, destroying up to 80-percent of them. While stink bugs are not a threat to people, they are a threat to crops. Asian wasps, on the other hand, are very tiny and do not attack insects that are considered beneficial.
Obama Wants To Sell Government Owned Properties
President Barack Obama is proposing the creation of a panel that will recommend how the federal government can sell off properties it no longer needs. The independent board would include public and private sector members who will develop a plan for matching the government's real estate holdings with its core missions and programs, an official told CNN on condition of anonymity.
House Passes Short-Term Spending Measure
The House passed a bill today which would keep the federal government open for two more weeks and avert a government shutdown for now. The bill cuts federal spending by $4 billion. The Senate is expected to pass the measure later today and the President is expected to sign it within 48 hours.
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Coburn Praises GAO Report On Wasteful Spending
Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Oklahoma) on Tuesday praised a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report that found 34 major areas of wasteful spending, The Hill reports. Coburn said the findings could help save the government $100 billion or more without cutting services. "GAO has identified the mother lode of government waste and duplication that should keep Congress busy the rest of the year," Coburn said. Among the 34 areas cited in the report are fragmented economic development programs, unregulated federal transportation programs, a need for streamlining intelligence gathering by the military and Homeland Security, duplication in job training programs, a lack of coordination of federal homeless programs and fragmented financial literacy programs.
GOP Wants To Keep Funding For NASCAR
According to McClatchy Newspapers, Rep. Betty McCollum (D-Minnesota), who is working to end the Pentagon's sponsorship of NASCAR teams, has come up against opposition from the Department of Defense and GOP lawmakers who say funding the race car teams helps military recruitment and could help save jobs through tax breaks. McCollum said giving NASCAR teams and track owners benefits doesn't offset other cuts to community health care and programs for homeless veterans. In 2010 and 2011, racetrack owners received $45 million in tax breaks to help improve their facilities, and will continue receiving them for the next two years. "We should take a critical eye and a critical look and say, 'Is this an appropriate role for the government?' " McCollum said. Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-North Carolina) disagreed, stating, "This is more about her disdain for NASCAR than it really is about saving taxpayers' money." McCollum's amendment to prohibit federal funds for NASCAR teams failed in the House this month, but McCollum said she'll continue filing legislation.
What Would You Do If You Witnessed An Attack
Good Samaritans From Suitland To Seattle Jump In To Help
WASHINGTON (WUSA) -- Have you ever wondered what you would do if you witnessed an attack on a stranger?A local man is recovering after intervening in an attack at a Metro station, and a Seattle television reporter was caught on tape breaking up a fight there.
"I got stitches in my upper lip. Inside and out," said Robert Joy. He is still recovering, from being a good Samaritan.
"I got stitches in my upper lip. Inside and out," said Robert Joy. He is still recovering, from being a good Samaritan.
"They knocked two of my front teeth out," he said.
Joy was jumped by a group of teenagers outside the Suitland Metro Station, as he dialed 9-1-1 to report their attack on another man.
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SOUP & SANDWICH
SOUP & SANDWICH
Saturday March 5, 2011
Mardela Springs Fire House
11 am until sold out
EAT IN OR CARRY OUT
Oyster Fritter Sandwiches
Homemade Chicken Salad
French Fries Dumplings
Ham Sandwiches Hot Dogs
HOMEMADE SOUPS
Peas N Dumplings Dried Lima Beans
Vegetable (Beef) Navy Bean
Green Lima Beans & Corn
Bake Table Sodas Coffee Water
Also available for sale
Rada Brand Knives Flavoring
March 19th GUN BASH TICKETS
All proceeds benefitsThe Mardela Springs Vol Fire Co.
Ladies Auxiliary
Woman Gets Probation For Being Naked In Store
SALISBURY, Md. (AP) -- A Virginia woman has been sentenced to 18 months supervised probation for taking off her clothes in a convenience store and sexually harassing patrons and employees.
Twenty-two-year-old Jennifer Riegler of Accomack County also agreed not to return to Maryland as a condition of probation. She was sentenced on Monday after pleading guilty to assault and disturbing the piece.
Police said on Dec. 18, Riegler danced naked around a Royal Farms store in Hebron, making sexual gestures and propositioning customers and employees.
Riegler apologized during her trial, saying she was not in the right state of mind.
Source
Twenty-two-year-old Jennifer Riegler of Accomack County also agreed not to return to Maryland as a condition of probation. She was sentenced on Monday after pleading guilty to assault and disturbing the piece.
Police said on Dec. 18, Riegler danced naked around a Royal Farms store in Hebron, making sexual gestures and propositioning customers and employees.
Riegler apologized during her trial, saying she was not in the right state of mind.
Source
O'Malley Yields On Bid To Curb Septics HB1107
Agrees to House leader's call for more study
Gov. Martin O'Malley gave up Tuesday — for this year at least — on his bid to restrict rural and suburban development on septic systems, agreeing to a key House leader's call for more study of a proposal that has drawn fire from rural and suburban lawmakers and developers.The governor's office released a brief letter to Del. Maggie McIntosh, head of the House Environmental Matters Committee, defending his proposal but acceding to her request that a task force be formed to hash out how septic systems fit into larger efforts to restore the Chesapeake Bay and preserve farmland from sprawling development.
In her own letter to the governor, McIntosh, a Baltimore city Democrat, had said while she agreed that the state needs to do a better job of curbing sprawl and "the proliferation of septic systems" that pollute the bay, she believed that "an outright ban could and would have a disproportionate impact on several counties in Maryland."
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Luxury Vehicles Auctioned In Criminal Case Net Nearly $1.1 Million
U.S. plans to use proceeds to repay Brown's fraud victims
Crouching to examine the contours of a gleaming Ferrari 360 Spider convertible Monday afternoon, 21-year-old Daniel Giron couldn't help but imagine himself as owner of the luxury car, seized by the U.S. government from Byron Keith Brown, a Maryland man convicted last year of wire fraud and money laundering.After admiring the car at a vehicle auction site in Elkridge, Giron whipped out his phone, leaned in close to the cherry-red exterior and snapped a couple of pictures of his face next to the Ferrari logo.
"It's not common to see on the street," Giron said, when asked what attracted him to this particular make and model. "These are faster, I think."
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Tractor Trailer Strikes Overpass In New Castle
Location: US Rt. 13 northbound at DE Rt. 141, New Castle, DE
Date of Occurrence: Wednesday, March 02, 2011 at 12:19 a.m.
Operators/Vehicles:
Operator: Derrick Higgin, 60, Bear, DE
Vehicle: 1999 Freightliner Tractor and flatbed trailer (owned by Higgin)
Resume:
New Castle- The Delaware State Police are currently investigating a one vehicle property damage accident in which a tractor trailer’s load struck an overpass early this morning.
The accident occurred at approximately 12:19 this morning as Derrick Higgin was operating a 1999 Freightliner tractor which was pulling a flatbed trailer on US Rt. 13 northbound in the center lane. As Higgin drove the vehicle under the DE Rt. 141 overpass his load, an empty cargo container, struck the overpass, causing it to dislodge from the trailer. The container then fell off of the flatbed trailer and lay across all three northbound lanes of Rt. 13. Neither Derrick Higgin nor a passenger in his vehicle were injured.
The three northbound main travel lanes of Rt. 13 were closed as the crash was cleared. However; traffic was able to continue northbound on Rt. 13 by utilizing the Rt. 141 access lane. Officials from the Delaware Department of Transportation responded to the scene and inspected the overpass. The roadway has since been reopened.
The crash remains under investigation.
Kickoff Spring At Pemberton Historical Park
Spring is just around the corner at Pemberton Historical Park, and several exciting programs are scheduled to welcome the warmer weather. Pemberton Park programs are a great opportunity for families to spend time together while having fun exploring the outdoors.
On Friday, March 11 at 7:00pm, join a Park Naturalist for an Owl Prowl. Late winter is a great time for “owling”, and guests will learn all about the adaptations of these fascinating night creatures while searching for the ones that call Pemberton Park home. Come back on Saturday, March 12 at 1:00pm for a Map and Compass Hike. Have you ever wondered how to really use a compass? Learn about early navigation, basic compass use and then make and take home your very own compass. Welcome the new season with Springfest on Saturday, March 26 at 1:00pm. Celebrate the end of the cold weather with crafts, a live animal show, scavenger hunt, prizes, and more.
The Owl Prowl, Map and Compass Hike and Springfest are $6 per person or $18 for a family of four per program. Pre-registration is not necessary. These programs are free to Members of Pemberton Historical Park.
Once spring is officially upon us, Pemberton Historical Park will host its annual Eggstravaganza on Sunday, April 10, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. Enjoy egg hunts for ages two to twelve, Easter crafts, egg dyeing, games and storytelling. Admission is only $4 per child, and will be collected at the event (pre-registration is not necessary).
Pemberton Historical Park is located at 5561 Plantation Lane in Salisbury, MD. For more information, please contact Kerri Liming at (410)860-2447 or email pembertonpark@wicomicocounty.org.
DAILY TIMES USES "NEW MATH"
This is from the article about the the City Council election in Salisbury:
"Of the 11,522 voters registered in District 2, a total of 2,938 residents hit the polls Tuesday for a turnout percentage of 9.54."
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