Anyone Else Hear About A Female Executive Escorted From Hebron Savings Bank?

It's been reported to Salisbury News a female executive was escorted out of Hebron Savings Bank yesterday. I kind of figured no one at the Bank was going to feed anyone any updated information so we thought perhaps one of you knew more about what might be going on.

Fernando Guerrero 2011 Boxer Of The Year

To all our Friends and Media Associates

         
The NABF has announced this years award winners. We are very proud that Main St Gym's Fernando Guerrero has been selected as the 2011, Boxer of the Year by the NABF. It is an award that took a lot of work to earn, but also motivates us to work even harder. We are also very pleased to be surrounded by a promotional team that has done themselves proud in the boxing industry by receiving the distinction as Promoter of the Year. Within Prizefights team, we congratulate Nate Yoder for received Matchmaker of the Year.  With the work that goes into every aspect of boxing, it is nice to see deserving people get recognition for all that work. I think it will serve to motivate everyone to work even harder to be even better. I know that is what we are going to do here at Team Guerrero and I am sure that Prizefight Promotions feels the same way. 

              

We stand here in April 2011 in what I would consider, the best of positions. Fernando is young,healthy, and performing better and better with each fight.  As good as he is, he is still getting better and better and that is what makes his future so bright. As you can see our promotional team is working hard to maintain themselves as a solid fixture in the industry and on top of it all this, we have the right person working with us as we move to the next level. No matter how I refer to him, Al Haymon is our ace in the whole and the key to helping us get to the top level. With Al in the mix, we have every reason to believe, big things are about to happen.  When you combine the whole package, you can see why I believe we are sitting exactly where we need to be at this point in time. 

            

My Thank you the NABF, to the members of our team and especially our fans, friends and media. 

                                    

Hal Chernoff  Team Guerrero

Rep. Harris Stops $12 Trillion In Job-Destroying Tax Hikes And Votes to Save Medicare

Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Andy Harris stopped a $12 trillion tax hike from being levied on American families and businesses by rejecting the liberal budget alternative proposed on the floor of the House of Representatives.  Instead, Rep. Harris supported the House Majority budget, which will save Medicare and build an environment for long-term job creation.  The House Majority plan will cut $6.2 trillion in spending over the next decade and begin to solve our fiscal crisis.

“Building an environment for job creation is my top priority,” said Rep. Andy Harris.  “That’s why I voted to stop $12 trillion in job-destroying tax hikes on American families and businesses and supported the House Majority budget, which would save Medicare and begin to get our fiscal house in order.  President Obama’s plan, which would try to tax our way out of the problem, and the various proposals introduced by liberals in Congress, would destroy jobs and ration health care for the most vulnerable among us – our seniors.”

Chairman Ryan’s plan keeps our promise to America’s seniors and those near retirement by protecting their health care plan. Currently, Medicare spending is growing twice as fast as the American economy. If left unchanged, as in President Obama’s plan, Medicare will go bankrupt in nine years.  The $12 trillion in tax hikes were part of the budget presented by the Progressive Caucus, which Rep. Harris opposed.

GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY TO SIGN EXECUTIVE ORDER CREATING TASK FORCE TO STUDY SEPTIC POLLUTION

ANNAPOLIS, MD (April 15, 2011) – Monday, Governor Martin O’Malley will join Delegate Maggie McIntosh, Chair of the House Environmental Matters Committee, Senator Paul Pinsky and Delegate Steve Lafferty, lead sponsors of this year’s septics legislation in the Senate and House of Delegates, and others to sign an Executive Order establishing the framework to examine the extent to which septic tanks on major developments pollute the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.  The Executive Order, which will create a task force to study the issue, will inform next year’s effort to ban new, major developments from relying on polluting septic systems. 

The General Assembly considered the Sustainable Growth and Agricultural Preservation Act of 2011 (SB 846 and HB 1107), ultimately concluding that more time was needed to study the issue.  Monday’s Executive Order will establish the framework of that study.

WHAT:           Governor O’Malley to Announce Task Force to Study Septic Pollution

WHEN:           Monday, April 18, 2011 at 11:00 a.m.

WHERE:         The Arlington Echo Outdoor Education Center (next to the Dining Hall)

975 Indian Landing Road

Millersville, MD 21108

Salisbury Police Department Press Release

On April 14, 2011 at approximately 11:33 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police arrested the below listed suspect on an outstanding arrest warrant received for an assault that occurred on March 23. On that date officers responded to the Peninsula Regional Medical Center Emergency Room and met with an adult male victim who had sustained injuries to his chest and facial area. The victim advised that he had been attacked by the below listed suspect and several other suspects while walking in the area of Marine Road and Fitzwater Street. The attack was the result of a prior argument and resulted in the suspect hitting the victim with a baseball bat. The injuries were not life threatening and the victim was treated and released from the hospital. This investigation is continuing with respect to the additional suspects.

ARRESTED: Shantee Goslee Johnson, 24 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES:
First degree assault
Second degree assault
Reckless endangerment
Possession of a dangerous and deadly weapon

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201000010606

On April 14, 2011 at approximately 7:45 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Superfresh Food Store on East College Avenue for the report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival the officers met with store employees who advised that the below listed suspect had been observed taking several cosmetic items from the store without making any attempts at payment. The items were recovered and returned to the store. During a routine records check of the suspect the officers learned that the suspect was currently wanted in the state of New Jersey.

ARRESTED: Melissa Joan Liszewski, 46 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES:
Theft (under $100)
Fugitive – New Jersey
Failure to appear for violation of
Probation hearing

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100014101/201100014102

On April 14, 2011 at approximately 8:17 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Center City Exxon on South Salisbury Boulevard for the report of an assault. Upon arrival the officers met with an adult female victim who advised that she had been assaulted by the below listed suspect during a domestic argument. The victim advised that during the argument, the suspect grabbed her by the shoulders and shook her, causing an injury to her facial area. The victim did not require medical attention.

ARRESTED: Robert Lee Holbrook, Sr., 42 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES: Second degree assault

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 201100014103

Worcester County Bureau Of Investigation Press Release

Date :       04/06/11         CASE #:  11-0088

Location Occurred: 11318 Showell School Road, Berlin, Worcester County, Maryland
       
Crime or Violation:  False Statement-Destructive Device/Arson Threat

Victim:  Showell Elementary School

Accused:  Patrick Earl McCready 09/09/1987   Mardela Springs MD

Charges:  False Statement-Destructive Device, Arson Threat, Disturbing  operations of school activities

Narrative: 
Investigation revealed the listed suspect made a statement to an individual, who is currently living with his ex-girlfriend, stating he was going to cause harm to his ex-girlfriends child.  This tip was provided to the Federal Bureau of Investigation tip-line over the internet and then forwarded to the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation. As a result of the investigation, McCready was arrested in Delaware for the charges; an interview was conducted by investigators.  McCready denied having any involvement in making the statement.  
As a result of the investigation, McCready has been extradited back to Maryland and charged with False Statement-Destructive Device, Arson Threat, and Disturbing Operation of school activities.  He was later taken to the commissioner, where he was held at the Worcester County Jail on $250,000 bond.

SU Students Raising Money for Japan Relief

A group of Salisbury University students will be raising money for the the American Red Cross Japanese Relief Fund this evening at today’s “Third Friday” on the downtown plaza:

Presidential Citizen Scholars from SU’s Institute for Public Affairs and Civic Engagement (PACE) hold two bake sales in April to raise money for the American Red Cross’ Japanese relief fund. Sales are scheduled 5-8 p.m. Friday, April 15, during the monthly Third Friday event on Salisbury’s Downtown Plaza and from noon-2 p.m. Monday, April 25, in SU’s Guerrieri University Center. “Support Japan” wristbands will be available for purchase at both sales. Donations also are accepted. A raffle will be held during the Third Friday sale for a $100 gift certificate donated by Kanpai Japanese Restaurant. Tickets are $2 each or three for $5. For more information call 410-677-5045.

Evil Andy Harris … Right Wing Andy Harris

That appears to be the theme of the last two issues of the Daily Times.  Today’s lead editorial simply shows what we have always know – the DT doesn’t think much of real conservatives and REALLY doesn’t like a strong conservative like Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD).  Yesterday’s front page, above the fold, “news” article is what I find most disturbing.  It belonged on the op-ed page as well.

Today’s well written, if wrong headed, editorial (we assume by Susan Parker) contains a couple of factual errors.  The op-ed states:

Harris' key votes in the House of Representatives have not deviated from the Republican Party line, nor has any significant vote cast by Harris gone against the majority vote.

Harris just voted against the John Boehner / Harry Reid / Barack Obama spending compromise.  ANY TIME that a Speaker has to look outside his own party to get a key piece of legislation passed (I think Susan would agree that keeping the government open is of import), that is a significant vote.  Frank Kratovil was given a pass on the ObamaCare vote; which was passed with only Democrat votes in the House.  Kratovil can NEVER claim the political courage that Harris has shown in that one vote.

We would also argue with the DT’s portrayal of either Wayne Gilchrest or Frank Kratovil as “moderates”.  However, we will agree to disagree on the DT’s all to typical, liberal definition of the w ord.

Probably our biggest complaint is the piece’s title – “Unremarkable First 100 Days”.  I would argue that Harris’ first 100 days have been quite remarkable.  First of all, he has been faithful to his campaign promises.  The DT admits this and ANY TIME that can be said about a politician it’s pretty remarkable.  In addition, Harris has held firm against an onslaught of opposition to putting this country on sound fiscal footing.  This opposition has come from the White House, the Senate, House Democrats, and from some of his own House GOP colleagues.  He should be applauded, not castigated or ridiculed.  Yet, this is precisely what the Daily Times has chosen to do under the guise of “news”.

Thursday’s front page article by Gannett’s Nicole Gaudiano is little more than a long op-ed wrapped up with a bow that says “NEWS”.  It isn’t.

Here’s the lead:

After 100 days in office, Republican Rep. Andy Harris shows no signs of moving to the center, as his predecessors did.

Really Ms. Gaudiano?  Was Frank Kratovil “moving to the center” when he voted for Obama’s massive PORKULUS bill?  Was he “moving to the center” when he voted for Obama’s budget?  Was he “moving to the center” every other time he voted to appropriate spending that has driven us down the path to a potential financial tsunami?

This a an old, tried and true trick used by the left leaning media.  If you are a liberal, but don’t carry a Communist Party membership card, then you are a “moderate”.  If you believe in outrageous concepts like a limited federal government and a sane fiscal policy you are a “right winger” and want to starve babies and kill old people.

A grand example of where some of this tax money is going is a quote by Adam Hoffman of Salisbury University’s Institute of Public Affairs and Civic Engagement (PACE):

"He's made no attempt to move toward the middle," Hoffman said. "His votes seem to reflect that sort of rightward tilt. It remains to be seen whether Harris' voting and positioning and connecting with the far right base (emphasis mine) is going to be a winning strategy in two years."

I guess we can all grasp Mr. Hoffman’s definition of “middle”:  Frank Kratovil came to the Eastern Shore and told his constituents that he was a “Blue Dog” and then turned around and voted for TRILLIONS in spending.  Harris told the voters of Maryland’s First District that he was going to vote to REDUCE government spending and has actually done it.  SHAME on Andy Harris!  That’s really “far right”.

Is Andy Harris perfect?  By no means.  When he has been wrong, we have pointed it out.  However, when we have done so, we haven’t claimed that it was “news”.  It’s opinion and portrayed as such.  While I don’t agree with today’s DT editorial, I respect their right to their opinion.  When opinion is disguised as “news”, as in the case of Gaudiano’s piece, then it is Gannett and the Daily Times who should be ashamed.

It is ironic that I did a radio interview a few days ago where I mentioned that I had seen a vast improvement in the Daily Times over the last 18 – 24 months; particularly when it came to their mixing of opinion into news pieces.  I sincerely hope that they aren’t choosing to go back down that dark road.

Joe Albero Appearing on WRAU-FM Today

SbyNEWS’s own Joe Albero, along with bloggers John Hayden and G. A. Harrison, will be appearing on WRAU-FM’s Coastal Connection today at 12 Noon.  Coastal Connection, hosted by Bryan Russo, is a weekly public affairs program focusing on local news and events.
You can listen to show at 12 Noon and 8PM this evening on 88.3 FM.  You can also listen to the show live online or as a podcast after the show airs.
We hope that you will take time to listen and share your thoughts with us.

ISABELLA STREET & MILL STREET WORK SCHEDULED

Chesapeake Utilities will be relocating a gas main in association with a Maryland State Highway Storm Water Project at the intersection of West Isabella Street & Mill Street. The gas main is being relocated in advance of the larger storm water project. The storm water project will run from US 13/London Avenue proceeding southerly along US 13 down William Street to Park Avenue ultimately out falling at Isabella Street. The overall project is expected to be completed in June 2012. The gas main work started on Wednesday April 13, 2011 at 7:30 AM and was to conclude at 5:00PM Friday April 15, 2011. Due to a few unforeseen delays, the work will also take place Monday, April 18, 2011 at 7:30 AM and be completed before 5:00PM. The proposed duration of the work now is 4 day.

This portion of Isabella Street will be passable to vehicles with a flagging operation during this construction period; however, you are strongly encouraged to use an alternate route to avoid delays.

Your tolerance of the temporary inconveniences and disruptions that inevitably occur during construction will be greatly appreciated.

William Sterling Project Manager

Salisbury Public Works

The Path to Prosperity

Dear Joe,

This week’s votes are probably the most important in the short three months since I took the oath of office. As you know, our fiscal situation is dire. Since the House passed a 2011 budget over seven weeks ago, the Senate leadership decided they would rather play politics then help solve our spending problem.

Late Friday night, a deal was struck on the budget between President Obama and the leaders of the House and Senate. They agreed to about $38 billion in cuts to this year’s budget. Although this was a step in the right direction (just look at who Speaker Boehner had to deal with), it only amounts to a 1% cut of the entire budget. We need to send a signal to American taxpayers and businesses that we are serious about solving our spending problems. I believe this deal didn’t go far enough – and that’s why I voted NO on this budget plan.

The big item on the agenda in the coming months will be tackling next year’s budget. President Obama has already put forth a plan that would fast track us into an even deeper $20 trillion hole by the end of the decade. Budget Chairman Paul Ryan’s 2012 “Path to Prosperity” proposal would cut deficits by more than $4 trillion. He starts the conversation regarding:

Saving Medicare for our children and grandchildren.
Making government programs more accountable to the taxpayers.
Building an environment for positive job growth.
A simpler tax code that lowers the burden for individuals and businesses.

You know the liberals in Washington are going to pull out all of the stops. Last week Sens. Chuck Schumer, Harry Reid and even former liberal presidential candidate Howard Dean (remember him?) were publicly hoping for a repeat of the 1995 government shutdown so they could blame the Tea Party.  And the demagoguery has already started regarding Paul Ryan’s proposal.

However, we know better – and that’s why we need to make sure our friends, family and neighbors know our clear message: we must reduce government spending to create jobs and get the economy moving again. The job creators of this country – the private sector innovators – cannot be treated like ATM machines. That means we need to cut spending, do away with unnecessary regulations and create an environment where businesses can grow and hire new workers. Please continue to write letters to your local newspapers and call in to your local talk radio shows to spread the message.

Thanks for your support, and as always, the First Congressional District office belongs to the people. If you need to reach me for any reason, please contact me immediately.

Sincerely,

Andy Harris

Tea Party R.I.P.

Two Years Ago Today.

One Year Ago Today.

The Tea Party will NOT be protesting today at the GOB.

If ever there was a time in our Country these people needed to be heard, now is the time.

R.I.P.

Call Sheriff Lewis

If you would like to continue seeing Press Releases from the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office here on Salisbury News, call Sheriff Mike Lewis at 410-548-4891.

SALISBURY – LET’S HOPE WE GET A HARRIS TEETER STORE SOON

We regret the closing of the Superfresh store on College Avenue, but it would be a great location for a Harris Teeter supermarket, which would give the Giant a real battle to remain Salisbury’s food emporium of choice for the local elite. Hey, I can dream, can’t I?

PS – if you don’t know about Harris Teeter, visit one of their 3 stores in Sussex County, Delaware – Millsboro, Selbyville and Bethany.

BIGGEST GAME (SO FAR) FOR SU MEN’S LAX TOMORROW

Another undefeated (to date) season for the Gulls is winding down, and Saturday’s home game against Stevenson will determine each team’s seeding in the NCAA tournament. This contest, beginning at 1 PM, weather permitting, will be the toughest regular season game for SU if not for Stevenson, which has lost once, to Tufts (last year’s champion), by 1 goal.

In recent years Stevenson has replaced Washington College as Maryland’s other Division III powerhouse besides SU. Not surprisingly, there’s no love lost between the two squads, or their coaches. Last year they met three times, with SU winning twice, including in the NCAA semi-final round by one goal in overtime at Sea Gull Stadium. That victory preceded the Gulls loss to Tufts in the championship game.

If you have never seen the Gulls in action, this is the chance to see them at their best against the best team on their schedule. Currently SU is ranked 2^nd and Stevenson 3^rd, with Tufts at the top in Division III. This game is rated a toss-up on Lax Power.

Our prediction: Stevenson by two goals, and a Jimbo Berkman melt down in the 4^th quarter!

Va. Better Than Md. For Earning Money

Virginia is near the top of the heap when it comes to the best places to earn a buck.

The commonwealth was ranked the fourth-best state in which to make a living, way ahead of Maryland, which was ranked 29th by Money-Rates.com, a financial information website.

States were ranked by their average income, state taxes, unemployment rates and cost of living.

More here

Report: Taxes, Government Limit Md.'s Economic Growth

Maryland has all the machinery for robust economic growth, but its complicated corporate tax structure and reliance on the government are holding back its progress, according to a new report outlining a five-year economic plan for the state.

"Maryland is a conundrum," according to the 42-page report compiled by the state-appointed Maryland Economic Development Commission. "On the one hand, it ranks only in the middle of leading innovation states in economic activity, but on the other, it is among the leaders in fast-growing companies."

The state ranks fourth in fast-growing firms, but ranks 27th in employment growth from young companies and 33rd in the percentage of citizens starting companies, according to the report.

The commission urges Maryland lawmakers to review the state's incorporation and licensing policies and consider employing faculty and business school students to help companies wade through strategic and operational issues.

The commission also recommends that the state invest more in immigrant entrepreneurs and "work with federal partners to ensure that [they] can become U.S. citizens."

"Federal and state regulations aimed at giving small, minority, and women-owned businesses entry into public sector contracts may be unintentionally having the effect of locking them into subcontractor status and limiting growth," the report reads.

The commission further outlines hindrances in the state's business licensing, regulatory and permitting procedures, saying the processes take too long and lack clarity.

"At its worst, perceived or real government intransigence is a competitive disadvantage to Maryland, and has been debated within the state for decades," commissioners wrote.

Despite the criticisms, Maryland's unemployment rate ranks below the national average and economists say the state has weathered the recession far better than most states.

[Because so many Marylanders work for the government.   --Editor]

The federal government has helped buoy the state by generating high incomes and attracting workers with multiple college degrees, but its presence also has led to more modest commercialization and lower rates of industry-funded research and development, the report says.

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Romney On Compulsory Health Insurance: ‘I Like Mandates’

Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney’s biggest challenge in the GOP primary might be explaining the differences between Romneycare and Obamacare--how the health care plan he signed as governor of Massachusetts in 2006 differs from the federal health care reform enacted last year.

Beyond differences the two plans may have, the linchpin of both is considered the individual mandate: the requirement that individuals buy health insurance or pay a penalty.

Romney, as recently as 13 months ago, has staunchly defended the mandate in the law that he signed in 2006, arguing that it forces people to take responsibility for their own health care.

“Let me tell you, there’s a big difference between what we did and what President Obama is doing,” Romney said in a Mar. 7, 2010 Fox News Sunday interview.

“What we did, I think, is the ultimate conservative plan. We said people have to take responsibility for getting insurance, if they can afford it, or paying their own way. No more free- riders. And we solved this at the state level – not a federal plan, but a state plan.”

Romney went on to describe the mandate as the “biggest pro” of his health care plan.

“It’s a plan that has pros and cons,” he said. “The biggest pro, in my view, is that we don’t have free riders now expecting other people to pay for their health care costs. And we’re also able to have individuals, who otherwise would not have the kind of specialty care they need, receiving treatment.”

Two weeks later Romney said during an interview on CNN’s Larry King Live, “right now in this country, people that don’t have health insurance go to the hospital if they get a serious illness, and they get treated for free by government. My plan says no, they can’t do that. No more free riders. People have to take personal responsibility. I consider it a conservative plan.”


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Pentagon To Senators: ‘All Your Constituencies Are Confronted By This Threat’ From Mexican Drug Cartels

A top Pentagon official told a Senate subcommittee on Tuesday that the tentacles of Mexico’s criminal organizations have reached well-beyond the southwest border into the interior of the U.S. homeland.

Those remarks buttress the 2010 Drug Threat Assessment by the U.S. Justice Department, which stated that street gangs, which “acquire drugs directly from [drug-traffickers] in Mexico or along the Southwest Border,” are distributing narcotics in “more than 2,500 cities.”

Nevertheless, Department of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano has said on separate occasions that people who say the border is not secure or out of control are wrong and simply trying to score political points.

On April 1, Napolitano said that the U.S.-Mexico border is not “overrun or out of control,” and last April she said the border “is as secure now as it has ever been.”

“It’s important to recognize, just to conclude, that when we discuss the trans-national nature of this [illegal narcotics] threat that does also include criminal activities that take place inside the United States as well,” William Wechsler, deputy assistant secretary of Defense for Counter-narcotics and Global Threats, told senators.

“For instance, the influence of Mexican transnational, criminal organizations extends well beyond the southwest border to cities across the country, including Atlanta, Chicago, and Detroit,” he said. “All your constituencies are confronted by this threat.”

The Pentagon official went on to criticize the executive branch for a lack of inter-agency coordination in dealing with the narcotics threat, adding that the Defense Department can help alleviate that problem. 

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YARD SALES

CLICK HERE for upcoming yard sales in the area. Keep in mind, I don't write these. 1 is dated for last month, but was just sent a few days ago, so it may just be a typo. Enjoy your weekend!

GOP Facing Tea Party Revolt

A stunning Congressional Budget Office report revealing that the so-called $38 billion in budget cuts made last week will only result in $352 million in savings this year has touched off a backlash from the conservative grass-roots base of the GOP that could make future bargains that much more difficult.

Several top tea party leaders are trying to ease the frustration, reminding the tea party faithful that Republicans only control the House of Representatives. But the antipathy on the right with how Washington does business is now palpable.

Even though congressional leaders were able to squeeze the continuing resolution through Congress on Thursday, the questionable insider dealing, combined with President Barack Obama’s partisan speech on entitlement reform on Wednesday, could make future compromises on the debt ceiling and the 2012 budget much harder to achieve, sources say.

Obama intimated the reforms proposed by Wisconsin GOP Rep. Paul Ryan were un-American.  Ryan replied that Obama has become a “campaigner in chief.”

“I’m hearing a lot of anger and frustration frankly,” Memphis Tea Party founder and chairman Mark Skoda, who is also a conservative talk-radio host, tells Newsmax. “Yesterday on the radio I had a number of folks call in, primarily [saying] that [House Speaker John] Boehner needs to fire his staff, that the deal that was cut is a terrible deal. I don’t think people are throwing in the towel for Republicans … but they got rolled.”

Sal Russo, the founder of Tea Party Express, says movement conservatives are “profoundly disappointed” by the 2011 budget deal. He tells Newsmax the arrangement marks “another failure to address excessive federal government spending and our skyrocketing national debt.”

Tea Party Express Chairman Amy Kremer, similarly, tells Newsmax that the deal struck by House Republicans was an “embarrassment.”

“I am very disappointed and fed up with Washington's politics as usual,” she adds, “The American people are smarter than Washington thinks, and we have lost patience with their shenanigans.

But Russo adds that it is time for the grass-roots to move past the 2011 budget that Democrats failed to pass, and to begin to focus on the much larger battles that lie ahead.

“The 2011 budget deal has become meaningless in the fight to curtail the increasing intrusiveness and cost of the federal government,” says Russo. “We hope this is a lesson to the Republican leaders to stand fast in opposing raising the debt ceiling, if the only plan from Democrats is to raise taxes and keep us on the spending merry-go-round.”

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Court To Atheists: Gee, Sorry About Your 'Hurt Feelings'

A federal appeals court has tossed a challenge to the legality of the National Day of Prayer, saying that the plaintiffs apparently were complaining because they were observing "conduct with which they disagree," and that does not make a federal case.

The decision Thursday from the U.S. Court 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, written by Chief Judge Frank Easterbrook, rejected arguments from the Freedom From Religion Foundation that the case was legitimate because members felt excluded by the day.

"Hurt feelings differ from legal injury," the court concluded.

"We're extremely pleased that the appeals court rejected a flawed decision and determined that while some may disagree with a presidential proclamation, they do not have the right to silence the speech they don't agree with," said Jay Sekulow, chief counsel for the American Center for Law and Justice.

Read more

Today's Survey Question

Do you support the plan to make the immigrant tuition discount bill a referendum ballot issue for voters to decide?

Inside The Deal To Sell GM To China’s SAIC

By now, you’ve no doubt heard the news: General Motors’ Chinese partner, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC) will take a controlling stake in GM by purchasing the equity sold to the U.S. and Canadian governments during the bailout. But what does it mean for the future of GM?

The announcement was brief, cryptic and buried in the excitement over the multitude of concepts and new vehicles GM has just announced it will debut at the Shanghai auto show in a few weeks. The press release reads simply:

“Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC) and General Motors (NYSE: GM) are announcing today that an agreement has been reached with the governments of the United States and Canada that will allow SAIC to purchase the shares of GM owned by the respective governments. The sale is expected to be completed by this time next year pending approval from U.S., Canadian and Chinese government regulators.”

The implications of this announcement are enormous. The U.S. Treasury currently holds a 26-percent stake in General Motors after selling roughly half of its interest during the company’s Initial Public Offering in November 2010. The Canadian Government, meanwhile, holds nine percent of GM stock after selling of 17.4-percent of its stake during the IPO. Together, that’s 35-percent of the company.

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Good Graph Friday: Who's Footing The US Tax Bill?

The Investigative Reporting Workshop recently tallied the growing gap between what percentage of the nation's total income tax bill individuals cover, versus how much corporations cover.

In the 1950s, corporations covered 39 percent of the nation's income tax bills, while individuals paid 61 percent.

These days, corporations are only footing 19 percent of the income tax bill, and we're paying 81 percent.

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Thank God Its Friday

What Will You Be Doing This Weekend?

Trillions In Cuts Up For House Vote

House ready to vote on Rep. Paul Ryan's plan that promises more than $6 trillion in cuts from the budget the president offered in February, as well as significant changes to Medicare — a plan blasted by Dems.

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Born 1776, Dying 2011

Professor Joseph Olson of Hamline University School of Law in  St. Paul , Minnesota , points out some interesting facts concerning the last Presidential election:  

    . Number of States won by:             Obama:19                  McCain: 29
    . Square miles of land won by:        Obama:580,000         McCain: 2,427,000
    . Population of counties won by:     Obama:127million       McCain: 143 million
    . Murder rate per 100,000 residents in counties won by:  Obama: 13.2     McCain: 2.1    

Professor Olson adds: "In aggregate, the map of the territory McCain won was mostly   the land owned by the taxpaying citizens of the
Country.
 
Obama territory mostly encompassed those citizens living in low income tenements and living off various forms of government welfare..."

Olson believes the United States is now somewhere between the "complacency and apathy" phase of Professor Tyler's definition of democracy, with some forty percent of the nation's population already having reached the "governmental dependency" phase. 

(Mr. Obama has added 200,000 newly hired government employees....they add virtually nothing to the GNP, manufacture nothing, add an increasing bureaucratic burden on business and citizens. One hour of your pay, each day, goes to pay their salaries and benefits -cww!)

If Congress grants amnesty and citizenship to twenty million criminal invaders called illegal's - and they vote - then we can say goodbye to the USA in fewer than five years ..    

3 things that cannot be hidden for long.
The Sun
The Moon, and
The truth

Mortgage Interest Deduction Could Be Cut

HERNDON, Va. (WUSA) -- On Wednesday, President Obama outlined his plan to reduce the deficit. In his speech, he did not refer directly to the mortgage interest deduction (MID), but he did say he wants to build on the fiscal commission's model. That commission, appointed by the President, recommended reducing the MID.

"So goes the housing market, so goes the economy," says Realtor Karen Briscoe, referring to the idea of scaling back or eliminating the MID.

"They're going to see an immediate devalue, decline in their property. Then, they're going to see an impact, if they're using the mortgage [interest] deduction on their taxes, they're going to see an immediate impact in their purchasing power of other goods and services," said Briscoe.

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Anti-Gay Church Outnumbered In Meade High Protest

Hundreds show up to call for tolerance, schools divert buses to hide demonstration from students

When Michael Cox learned that a controversial anti-gay church infamous for protesting the funerals of soldiers killed in combat was staging a demonstration at his high school it felt like a double insult.

The Meade High School senior is the son of an active duty serviceman with more than two decades in the military. And the 18-year-old is openly gay.

"My first reaction was I didn't believe it was happening," he said. "Then I got excited because I knew I'd be able to come out and protest with all of these people and show how much love Fort Meade has for its citizens."

Cox was one of several hundred people who turned out this morning near Fort George G. Meade to counter the message of six members of Westboro Baptist Church.

The counter protestors, including a number of men dressed as Jesus, carried signs relaying the Christian icon's message of love and waving American flags.

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Bigger State Pension Changes Needed, Some Analysts Say

It is time for state governments to start owning up to the true value of their pension debt and make big changes to ensure that they can meet their obligations to retirees, an economist told a congressional committee Thursday.

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Md. delegate seeks illegal immigrant tuition lawsuit

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - A state lawmaker said Thursday that Maryland has become a haven for illegal immigrants, and he plans to go to federal court to change that.

Delegate Patrick McDonough, R-Baltimore County, said he is consulting with two national legal foundations to overturn legislation passed this week that would grant illegal immigrants in-state tuition rates at Maryland's public universities. He has not decided yet whether he will file one or multiple lawsuits, but expects they will be filed in federal court.

Maryland has become "a Disneyland for illegal immigrants," McDonough said.

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House Prepares To Vote On $6B Spending Cut Plan

A bold but politically risky plan to cut billions of dollars from the federal budget is coming to a House vote, with insurgent Republicans rallying behind the idea of fundamentally reshaping the government's role in health care for the elderly and the poor.

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Federal Judge Rules Middle Schoolers Can Express Their Love Of "Boobies"

A ruling by a federal judge clears the way for kids to wear clothing that expresses their love of "boobies" without school administrators forcing them to remove it.

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Congress Takes Animal Off Endangered Species List

Usually the way off the Endangered Species List does not head through legislators, but Congress let the Rocky Mountain wolf off the list, angering environmentalists who believe the reclassification was inappropriate.

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Scammer Cracks Into Facebook Account And Hits Up Chat List For Cash

Kevin was worried. His friend Mike said over Facebook chat that he and his wife and kids were stranded in London after getting mugged. They needed money wired immediately to settle their hotel bill. This was especially worrisome because Mike was supposed to be recuperating in the hospital from head surgery... Then Kevin realized that someone had cracked his friend's Facebook account and was impersonating him. Here is the transcript of their conversation:

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Man Gets 6-12 Months After Yelling At Walmart Greeter Who Asked To See Receipt

A man has received a 6-12 month sentence after he was accused of yelling and cursing at a Walmart greeter who asked to see his receipt.

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Sears Sues Maker Of Sex-Enhancement Spray Over "DieHard" Name

For decades, Sears has been using the trademarked brand name "DieHard" on its car batteries and auto parts. Now the retail relic has filed a trademark infringement suit against a company that makes a sexual enhancement spray under the same name.

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Oprah's Finale: Worth A Million Bucks?

Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com

The media questions whether Oprah’s $1 million finale ad asking price is worth it.

Congress OKs FY 2011 Funding

Congress sent President Barack Obama hard-fought legislation cutting a record $38 billion from federal spending. The measure will finance the government through the Sept. 30 end of the budget year, chopping $78 billion from the president's request of more than a year ago. (Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nev. Thursday, April 14, 2011. AP Photo/Evan Vucci) 

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The Time Is Right To End "Zero Tolerance" In Schools

It is too early to know whether the current wave of school reforms will lead to lasting improvements in student achievement. But it is not too early to note that many of these reforms have a troubling consequence: a doubling-down on harsh, ineffective zero-tolerance discipline policies. All too often, the debate about school reform has wrongly emphasized pushing troubled children out of school, rather than making systemic improvements so that all students have the support they need to learn.

For that reason, advocates nationwide are embracing efforts to improve school climate. School leaders are recognizing the ineffectiveness of zero tolerance. And as states grapple with untenable youth-prison budgets and Congress prepares to debate reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, a movement is building to end the ineffective, expensive, and tragic era of zero tolerance.

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Twelve Tax-Dodging Corporations Spent $1 Billion To Influence Washington Over The Last Decade

As ThinkProgress has been reporting, while Main Street Americans are having their services gutted and public investment is being slashed, some of the country's most profitable corporations are getting away withpaying little to nothingin taxes.

A new report by Public Campaign examines how these major corporations have influenced Congress to craft a tax code that lets them get away with making so much money and paying so little taxes in return. In its report, "The Artful Dodgers," Public Campaign juxtaposes the limited tax liability of dozen major corporations with the companies' campaign contributions and lobbying expenditures, which amount to more than a billion dollars over the last decade:

EXXON MOBIL:The oil giant that was theworld's most profitable corporationin 2008 has spent $5.7 million in campaign contributions over the last ten years and $138 million in lobbying expenditures. Its federal corporate income tax liabilities for 2009? Absolutely nothing. Not only did it pay nothing, but it also received a tax rebate the same year of $156 million.

CHEVRON:Chevron spent$4.4 millionin campaign contributions and $91 million in lobbying expenditures over the last decade. It received a tax refund of $19 million in 2009 while making $10 billion in profits and $324 million in government contracts in 2008.

CONOCOPHILLIPS:The Texas-based gasoline giant spent $2.5 million in campaign contributions and $63 million in lobbying expenditures over the last decade. It received "$451 million through the oil and gas manufacturing deduction," a special tax break, between 2007 and 2009, despite $16 billion in profits over the same period of time.

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Congressional Budget Office Release Could Derail Budget Compromise

A budget compromise in Congress that kept the federal government from shutting down over the weekend was supposed to cut $38.5 billion from the federal budget, but recent Congressional Budget Office analysis shows the compromise will only cut $352 million over the next fiscal year, according toThe Washington Post. The announcement angered some conservatives seeking deep government spending cuts. The House is voting today on the compromise, which both parties agreed on late last week.

More Rainwater Tests Positive For Radiation From Japan

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Wednesday released a new set ofdataon the levels of radioactive material in milk, rainwater and drinking water as part of a continuing effort to track radiation from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan. The only new data on milk, which has been found to be radioactive in several cities across the country, came from Reno, Nevada, where no radioactive material was detected. The only drinking water data comes from Knoxville, Tennessee, and Hartford, Connecticut, and both samples were also free of radiation. Rainwater in about a dozen cities, however, tested positive for radioactive iodine-131 and in some cases radioactive cesium. Iodine-131 levels ranged from 4.4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) in Charlotte, North Caroline, to 200 pCi/L in Kansas City. New data from Boise, Idaho, where rainwater recently tested as high as 390 pCi/L, was not released. All of the samples tested were collected at least a week ago, and some data is up to two weeks old. The EPA officials say they expected to see some radiation drift from the Daiichi plant to the US, but radiation levels are too low to cause a public health concern. Nuclear critics, however, claim that any dose of radiation can be dangerous to human health, and the EPA needs do more testing and release data on a more frequent basis before declaring America safe.

APTA Study - Due To Rising Gas Prices Philly Area Individuals Can Save More Than $11,600 A Year

Washington, DC -- A simple change adds up to major savings as gas prices rise. Riding public transportation in the Philadelphia area saves individuals, on average, $11,684 annually and $974 per month according to the Transit Savings Report of the American Public Transportation Association(APTA) which bases these savings on the April 13, 2011 average national gas price ($3.81 per gallon-reported by AAA) and the national unreserved monthly parking rate. This is the largest savings in nearly three years.

As more and more Americans look for ways to save money at the pump, the choice to switch to public transportation is a smart decision, said APTA president William Millar. Switching from driving to riding public transportation is a proven way for individuals to cut monthly and yearly transportation costs.

Gas prices have risen more than $.30 a gallon in each of the last two months, and nearly $.80 since the beginning of the year. APTA says as rising gas prices are straining Americans, riding public transportation is the quickest way to alleviate the financial burden of transportation costs on household budgets.

APTA releases this monthly Transit Savings Report to examine how an individual in a two-person household can save money by taking public transportation and living with one less car.

The national average for a monthly unreserved parking space in a downtown business district is $161.56, according to the 2010 Colliers International Parking Rate Study. Over the course of a year, parking costs for a vehicle can amount to an average of $1,939.

APTA calculates the average cost of taking public transit by determining the average monthly transit pass of local public transit agencies across the country. This information is based on the annual APTA fare collection survey and is weighted based on ridership (unlinked passenger trips). The assumption is that a person making a switch to public transportation would likely purchase an unlimited pass on the local transit agency, typically available on a monthly basis.

APTA then compares the average monthly transit fare to the average cost of driving. The cost of driving is calculated using the 2011 AAA average cost of driving formula. The AAA cost of driving formula is based on variable costs and fixed costs. The variable costs include the cost of gas, maintenance and tires. The fixed costs include insurance, license registration, depreciation, and finance charges. The comparison also uses the average mileage of a mid-size auto at 23.4 miles per gallon and the price for self-serve regular unleaded gasoline as recorded by AAA on April 13, 2011 at $3.81 per gallon. The analysis also assumes that a person will drive an average of 15,000 miles per year. The amount saved assumes one individual in a two-person household manages with one less car.

In determining the cost of parking, APTA uses the data from the 2010 Colliers International Parking Rate Study for monthly unreserved parking rates for the United States.

To calculate your individual savings with or without car ownership, go to www.publictransportation.org.

The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) is a nonprofit international association of more than 1,500 public and private member organizations, engaged in the areas of bus, paratransit, light rail, commuter rail, subways, waterborne passenger services, and high-speed rail. This includes: transit systems; planning, design, construction, and finance firms; product and service providers; academic institutions; transit associations and state departments of transportation. More than 90 percent of the people using public transportation in the United States and Canada are served by APTA.

Students In Wicomico Visual And Performing Arts Program Hold Silent Art Auction For Tsunami Relief

Visual arts students in the Wicomico County Visual and Performing Arts Program are putting their talents to work for a good cause with a silent auction of student art, with proceeds going to the American Red Cross for tsunami relief. Students are donating 17 original works of art (plus one reproduction, of ducks) for the auction, for which bids will be taken at jkohut@wcboe.org or hchoi@wcboe.org through Friday, April 15.

Winners will be notified by email on Monday, April 18, and checks can be made out to Wicomico High School, which will write one check to the Red Cross.

Bids for these works of art must begin at $20. Current bids are:

Picture # 1 /18"X 12" watercolor BID $50.00
Picture # 2 / 22"X 13" print BID $40.00
Picture # 3 /19"X 12" pastel bid $25.00
Picture # 4 /14"X 10" watercolor bid $40.00
Picture # 5 /15"X 11" tempera bid $25.00
Picture # 6/Sculpture 12"X 4" high BID $25.00
Picture # 7/ 8"X 11" repousse bid $20.00
Picture # 8/16"X 8" ink and gouache BID $65.00
Picture # 9/ 16"X 8" oil painting BID $90.00
Picture # 10/15"X 12" charcoal and color pencil bid $40.00
Picture # 11/19"X 14" oil pastel bid $30.00
Picture # 12/12" X 18" watercolor and ink BID $35
Picture # 13/11"X 14" ink bid $30.00
Picture # 14/14"X 12" colored pencil BID $25.00
Picture # 15/8"X 17" print BID $20.00
Picture # 16 /11"X 14" ink bid $ 20.00
Picture # 17/15"X 11" print
Picture # 18 /14"X 17" colored pencil bid $20.00

When you email your bid, or before you make your bid, please use that email address to request the current level of bidding by painting. A pdf with the entire auction portfolio is posted below. 410-677-5146.

April 14, 2011

Documents

• [586]AuctionPDF_2.pdf

Check Out These Spring Concerts And Programs In Wicomico Schools

Sunday, April 17

CONCERT CANCELLED: The middle school orchestra concert for students from Wicomico Middle, Bennett Middle and Pittsville Middle who participated in Solo and Ensemble Festival will not take place on April 17. It has been cancelled.

Monday, April 18

Charles H. Chipman first graders will present “Broadway Sounds” at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 18, at the school. Students will present a variety of Broadway pieces, under the direction of Sarah Hofstetter. Admission free. 410-677-5814.

The Mardela Middle & High School Spring Concert, featuring 6th Grade Intermediate Band, West Salisbury Orchestra (including a full orchestra selection with winds and percussion) and State Ensemble Performances, will take place at 7 p.m. Monday, April 18, in the Mardela School cafetorium. Admission free. For information please contact Cory Boltz, Band Director, and Sharon Ehrisman, Orchestra Director, 410-677-5142.

Wednesday, April 27

Beaver Run Elementary School kindergarten students will present a spring music concert at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 27, at the school, under the direction of Connie Sue Milbourne. The concert will feature “The Orchestra Song – A Mini Musical.” Admission is free. 410-677-5101.

Thursday, April 28

Wicomico Middle School Talent Show featuring 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade Students at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 28, in the Wicomico Middle School auditorium. Wi Middle students share their talents in singing, playing instruments, dancing, magic, comedy, art and poem displays. Teacher/director is Micah Nicholson. Admission $3 adults, $2 students, kids 3 and under free. 410-677-5145.

The James M. Bennett High School Symphonic Band will present its annual Spring Band Concert on Thursday, April 28 at 7 p.m. in the newly renovated Bennett Auditorium. Music featured will be from George Gershwin, Leroy Anderson, Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Band’s District Festival repertoire. The Band is under the direction of Douglas L. Miles. The concert is open to the public and admission is always free. 410-677-5141.