Delegate Michael A. McDermott
The O’Malley-Brown Gay Marriage Bill was voted on in a combined House Judiciary and Health/Government Operations Committee meeting. Several attempts were made to amend the bill and a lot of behind the scenes arm twisting has going on up until the final minutes before the committee convened. All of the Democratic leadership from the House was in the room to keep the pressure on members.
The following amendments were offered:
1-Would allow public school teachers the ability to opt out of teaching materials relating to sex education or non-traditional families if it were to be opposed to their values or religious teachings. This amendment was defeated following debate.
2. Would allow parents the opportunity to determine what portions of a sex education curriculum that their students will participate in at school. As opposed to opting out of the education, this would require parents to opt into the instruction. This amendment was defeated following debate.
3. Would prohibit a minor from marrying another individual of the same sex. It was fascinating to see all of the democrats agree that it would be alright for a 16 year old boy to marry a 48 year old man...incredible! Even this amendment, reasonable as it is, was defeated.
4. Would allow the effective date to be pushed back by several months to allow for a public referendum to be mounted. There was much debate on the process and whether the
rights of the people would be protected should the Attorney General not certify the petition process.There is a lot of concern that shenanigans would follow this process and the people would have their Constitutional rights abridged. This amendment was also defeated on a very close vote.
5. Would protect the definition of marriage and create Civil Unions for same sex couples. It would give all the rights of married individuals to same sex couples, but it would not redefine marriage as being between a man and a woman. I consider this amendment a great compromise that bridges the gap. This was also defeated by the democrats.
Following the amendments, there were closing statements on HB-438 itself. Having made
the final arguments, and lamenting that the people were not being allowed to vote for
themselves. Several delegates raised concerns on many aspects of the bill, but in the end, both committees voted largely along party lines with a few democrats voting against the bill. The bill was passed onto the floor by a vote of 25-18.
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O'MALLEY ON HOUSE JOINT COMMITTEE VOTE TO MOVE CIVIL MARRIAGE PROTECTION ACT FORWARD
ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 14, 2012) – Governor Martin O’Malley issued the following statement on today’s joint committee vote in the House to move the Civil Marriage Protection Act of 2012 forward:
“Today’s vote on the Civil Marriage Protection Act is a significant step forward for the passage of this bill in Maryland. Together, we will continue our work to ensure that our State protects religious freedom and provides equal protection under the law for all Marylanders.”
“Today’s vote on the Civil Marriage Protection Act is a significant step forward for the passage of this bill in Maryland. Together, we will continue our work to ensure that our State protects religious freedom and provides equal protection under the law for all Marylanders.”
Maryland Is For Gays
The new vision coming into Annapolis is a man made rainbow celebrating the union of gay people. It used to be a large crab, now its a rainbow. Happy Birthday Mayor Ireton, by the way.
Never Before Have Gas Prices Risen So High So Early In The Year
The U.S. average for regular gasoline climbed to $3.523 a gallon over the last week. The price inflation is accelerating thanks to Ben Bernanke money printing. Gas prices will very likely rise to some of the highest levels ever this year.
Even in 2008, the year that average gasoline prices hit records above $4 nationally, the U.S. average didn't climb above $3.50 until April 21, according to the Energy Department's weekly survey of service stations.
Source
Even in 2008, the year that average gasoline prices hit records above $4 nationally, the U.S. average didn't climb above $3.50 until April 21, according to the Energy Department's weekly survey of service stations.
Source
Norquist: Boehner’s Move On Payroll Tax ‘Extremely Wise’
Moves by Republican House leaders to extend the payroll tax holiday without finding ways to pay for it was hailed as an “extremely wise” strategy on Monday by anti-tax crusader Grover Norquist.
And conservative House members who are starting to make noises in opposition to the move just did not understand it, he added.
“Opposing leadership is only heroic if the leadership is wrong,” Norquist said in an exclusive interview with Newsmax. “This is not the first time the leadership has had a coherent strategy and the backbenchers have missed what they were doing and attributed bad motives to something.”
House Speaker John Boehner and his two top lieutenants, majority leader Eric Cantor and whip Kevin McCarthy announced on Monday that they were ready to accept a 10-month extension of the payroll tax break without offsetting spending cuts.
The trio blamed Democrats for not compromising in House/Senate conference meetings. “Democrats’ refusal to agree to any spending cuts in the conference committee has made it necessary for us to prepare this fallback option to protect small business job creators and ensure taxes don’t go up on middle class workers.”
“This is not our first choice,” the three leaders added in a statement. “Our goal is to reach a responsible agreement in conference, but in the face of the Democrats’ stonewalling and obstructionism, we are prepared to act to protect small businesses and our economy from the consequences of Washington Democrats’ political games.”
Immediately Rep. Steve King of Iowa attacked the move during an exclusive Newsmax interview. “I don’t know what principles are left,” he said.
“I don’t think there will be a revolt within the party,” King predicted. “We have been dragged so far down the road already. Unfortunately a few of us making a stand does not a coalition make.”
But Norquist said opponents to the plan were missing the point. “Some people might be opposed to it or confused by it,” he said. “Any upset is temporary.”
He said the move pulled the rug from under the Democrats’ whom, he said, planned to paint Republicans as being against the tax cut in the upcoming election.
“In a matter of days or weeks, certainly months and months before the next election, people will understand that it’s not that the Republicans caved,” said Norquist, the president of Americans for Tax Reform.
“They took off the table the Democrats’ argument that the Republicans are secretly against cutting this tax.
“Now they can separately have the debate about how we pay for it. By doing that they speed up the process of coming up with a way to pay for it, because the Democrats are spending all this time lying and saying the Republicans don’t want to cut the tax.
“We want the argument to be, ‘We want to cut spending, they want to raise taxes, that’s the difference between the two parties.’ That is what the Democrats don’t want to talk about.”
He said the move throws the Democrats’ plan “right back in their face, leaving them asking, ‘Now what?’”
Read more
And conservative House members who are starting to make noises in opposition to the move just did not understand it, he added.
“Opposing leadership is only heroic if the leadership is wrong,” Norquist said in an exclusive interview with Newsmax. “This is not the first time the leadership has had a coherent strategy and the backbenchers have missed what they were doing and attributed bad motives to something.”
House Speaker John Boehner and his two top lieutenants, majority leader Eric Cantor and whip Kevin McCarthy announced on Monday that they were ready to accept a 10-month extension of the payroll tax break without offsetting spending cuts.
The trio blamed Democrats for not compromising in House/Senate conference meetings. “Democrats’ refusal to agree to any spending cuts in the conference committee has made it necessary for us to prepare this fallback option to protect small business job creators and ensure taxes don’t go up on middle class workers.”
“This is not our first choice,” the three leaders added in a statement. “Our goal is to reach a responsible agreement in conference, but in the face of the Democrats’ stonewalling and obstructionism, we are prepared to act to protect small businesses and our economy from the consequences of Washington Democrats’ political games.”
Immediately Rep. Steve King of Iowa attacked the move during an exclusive Newsmax interview. “I don’t know what principles are left,” he said.
“I don’t think there will be a revolt within the party,” King predicted. “We have been dragged so far down the road already. Unfortunately a few of us making a stand does not a coalition make.”
But Norquist said opponents to the plan were missing the point. “Some people might be opposed to it or confused by it,” he said. “Any upset is temporary.”
He said the move pulled the rug from under the Democrats’ whom, he said, planned to paint Republicans as being against the tax cut in the upcoming election.
“In a matter of days or weeks, certainly months and months before the next election, people will understand that it’s not that the Republicans caved,” said Norquist, the president of Americans for Tax Reform.
“They took off the table the Democrats’ argument that the Republicans are secretly against cutting this tax.
“Now they can separately have the debate about how we pay for it. By doing that they speed up the process of coming up with a way to pay for it, because the Democrats are spending all this time lying and saying the Republicans don’t want to cut the tax.
“We want the argument to be, ‘We want to cut spending, they want to raise taxes, that’s the difference between the two parties.’ That is what the Democrats don’t want to talk about.”
He said the move throws the Democrats’ plan “right back in their face, leaving them asking, ‘Now what?’”
Read more
Obama: Signs Of Progress On Payroll-Tax Cuts
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Obama said Tuesday there are “hopeful signs” that Congress will reach a deal to extend expiring payroll-tax cuts for millions of Americans, but he urged the public to keep up the pressure on lawmakers until an agreement is finalized and a bill lands on his desk.
“You’re starting to hear voices talk about how we can go ahead and make this happen in a timely way on behalf of the American people,” Mr. Obama said. “That is good news.”
More
“You’re starting to hear voices talk about how we can go ahead and make this happen in a timely way on behalf of the American people,” Mr. Obama said. “That is good news.”
More
It's Not A Question Of Private Belief by Governor O'Malley
Dear Friend,
At the end of the day, across our State, all of us want the same thing for our kids. We want them to live in a loving, caring, committed and stable home protected equally under the law.
That's what the fight for marriage equality is about.
As Prince George's Mount Ennon Baptist Church's Pastor Delman Coates explains, "It is not a question of private belief but whether all citizens of this state have the same rights."
Read the story below to learn more about Pastor Coates and click here to join the fight for equality today.
At the end of the day, across our State, all of us want the same thing for our kids. We want them to live in a loving, caring, committed and stable home protected equally under the law.
That's what the fight for marriage equality is about.
As Prince George's Mount Ennon Baptist Church's Pastor Delman Coates explains, "It is not a question of private belief but whether all citizens of this state have the same rights."
Read the story below to learn more about Pastor Coates and click here to join the fight for equality today.
Miller Says Committee Has Decided On Currie Case
Senate President Mike Miller told reporters Monday that the Joint Committee on Ethics has decided on action to take on Sen. Ulysses Currie, D- Prince George’s, who failed to report $250,000 in consulting income from Shoppers Food Warehouse.
Continue Reading...
Continue Reading...
America Is Angry, Very Angry. Why That's Not All Bad
Through the smog and the smeariness of the seemingly ceaseless process of selecting a president, one thing is clear: Americans are seething.
Some Americans are livid over illegal immigration. Others are ticked off about Obamacare. President Obama himself is not too happy about the way things are. "If one emotion came through in President Obama's State of the Union address," Forbes magazine notes, "it was anger."
Newt Gingrich growls every chance he gets: "I am angry, and every American should be angry" about what he calls Mitt Romney's dishonesty. Recently rising Rick Santorum tells Fox News that Romney's health plan is "something to get mad about."
Tempers flared during Florida's primary in January, and former Gov. Charlie Crist told MSNBC that he was struck by the tone of the Republican Party. "This past week or 10 days in Florida," Crist said, "it has been a very angry tone, and regrettably, amazingly negative. My hope is, as a Floridian, as an American, we can get away from that negative tone."
More
Some Americans are livid over illegal immigration. Others are ticked off about Obamacare. President Obama himself is not too happy about the way things are. "If one emotion came through in President Obama's State of the Union address," Forbes magazine notes, "it was anger."
Newt Gingrich growls every chance he gets: "I am angry, and every American should be angry" about what he calls Mitt Romney's dishonesty. Recently rising Rick Santorum tells Fox News that Romney's health plan is "something to get mad about."
Tempers flared during Florida's primary in January, and former Gov. Charlie Crist told MSNBC that he was struck by the tone of the Republican Party. "This past week or 10 days in Florida," Crist said, "it has been a very angry tone, and regrettably, amazingly negative. My hope is, as a Floridian, as an American, we can get away from that negative tone."
More
Hundreds Rally For Same-Sex Marriage On Monday Night
Beneath the monument to Thurgood Marshall with the engraved words “Equal Justice Under Law,” around 800 advocates for same-sex marriage rallied on Lawyer’s Mall on Monday evening. Organized by the Marylanders for Marriage Equality coalition, which consists of several state and national organizations, the rally and lobby day -- which flooded House and Senate offices with 15,000 signed postcards urging support for the bill -- came as supporters continue to round up the votes needed to pass the bill in the House of Delegates.
Continue Reading...
Continue Reading...
Awesome Amendment To "Personhood": The "Spilled Semen" Clause
A brilliant Democrat in Oklahoma has tagged an amendment onto her state’s proposed Personhood law, making sure that the government doesn’t just intrude into women’s reproductive lives, but men’s as well:
Oklahoma State Senator Constance Johnson, a Democrat, has offered an amendment to the “personhood” bill pending in the state legislature. The pending bill, if passed, would declare that “the unborn child at every stage of development (has) all the rights, privileges, and immunities available to other persons, citizens, and residents of this state.”
Johnson writes that “the Personhood bill would potentially allow governmental intrusion into families’ personal lives by policing what happens to a woman’s eggs without any similar thought to what happens to a man’s sperm.” Her amendment reads:
“provided, however, any action in which a man ejaculates or otherwise deposits semen anywhere but in a woman’s vagina shall be interpreted and construed as an action against an unborn child.”
More
Oklahoma State Senator Constance Johnson, a Democrat, has offered an amendment to the “personhood” bill pending in the state legislature. The pending bill, if passed, would declare that “the unborn child at every stage of development (has) all the rights, privileges, and immunities available to other persons, citizens, and residents of this state.”
Johnson writes that “the Personhood bill would potentially allow governmental intrusion into families’ personal lives by policing what happens to a woman’s eggs without any similar thought to what happens to a man’s sperm.” Her amendment reads:
“provided, however, any action in which a man ejaculates or otherwise deposits semen anywhere but in a woman’s vagina shall be interpreted and construed as an action against an unborn child.”
More
Supremes Told Arizona Law Repels 'Invasion'
A brief filed today with the U.S. Supreme Court argues that Arizona’s contested state law allowing law-enforcement officers to ask about the legal status of people they encounter is justified because of the virtual “invasion” of the state by outsiders.
“As provided in the Constitution, the power to repel against invasions was … granted to both the federal and the state governments,” stated the brief filed by Larry Klayman of Freedom Watch.
“This action is consistent with the notion that the federal and state governments are both sovereign bodies within the United States,” the brief explained. “Furthermore, the state of Arizona, with its general police power, a power the Founding Fathers intentionally did not give to the federal government, surely has the power to protect the health, safety and welfare of those residing within its borders.”
At issue before the high court is HB 1070. It was signed by Gov. Jan Brewer in April 2010, only to have the Obama administration sue three months later to block it from taking effect. Oral arguments are pending before the court.
According to documents in the case, the cost of illegal immigration into the United States is estimated at some $100 billion, and state and local governments bear about $80 billion of the load.
The Obama administration, which contends regulating immigration is the job of the federal government not the states, also filed lawsuits against similar laws in Alabama, South Carolina and Utah.
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco earlier said a judge was right to halt enforcement of the Arizona law. Among the blocked provisions are a requirement that all immigrants carry immigration registration papers, one making it a criminal offense for an illegal immigrant to work in the state and another allowing police to arrest suspected illegal immigrants without warrants.
More here
“As provided in the Constitution, the power to repel against invasions was … granted to both the federal and the state governments,” stated the brief filed by Larry Klayman of Freedom Watch.
“This action is consistent with the notion that the federal and state governments are both sovereign bodies within the United States,” the brief explained. “Furthermore, the state of Arizona, with its general police power, a power the Founding Fathers intentionally did not give to the federal government, surely has the power to protect the health, safety and welfare of those residing within its borders.”
At issue before the high court is HB 1070. It was signed by Gov. Jan Brewer in April 2010, only to have the Obama administration sue three months later to block it from taking effect. Oral arguments are pending before the court.
According to documents in the case, the cost of illegal immigration into the United States is estimated at some $100 billion, and state and local governments bear about $80 billion of the load.
The Obama administration, which contends regulating immigration is the job of the federal government not the states, also filed lawsuits against similar laws in Alabama, South Carolina and Utah.
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco earlier said a judge was right to halt enforcement of the Arizona law. Among the blocked provisions are a requirement that all immigrants carry immigration registration papers, one making it a criminal offense for an illegal immigrant to work in the state and another allowing police to arrest suspected illegal immigrants without warrants.
More here
Bill Aims To Censor Arizona Teachers' Speech
A group of Republican state lawmakers is backing legislation that would require teachers to limit their speech to words that comply with Federal Communications Commission regulations on what can be said on TV or radio.
The FCC regulations limit obscene, indecent and profane speech. Its determination of what falls into those categories is broad and based on context. For example, the FCC defines profanity as "language so grossly offensive to members of the public who actually hear it as to amount to a nuisance."
More
The FCC regulations limit obscene, indecent and profane speech. Its determination of what falls into those categories is broad and based on context. For example, the FCC defines profanity as "language so grossly offensive to members of the public who actually hear it as to amount to a nuisance."
More
Lincoln Day Speech
To the Maryland House of Delegates February 13, 2012
by Delegate Michael A. McDermott
Motive is an interesting thing. I have questioned the motives of people for decades, as, no doubt, have you as well. As an investigator, I can tell you that finding the motive for a crime is a critical element in solving it.
On a ball field, it is easy to spot the team that lacks motivation. The best coaches are those who can keep their team upbeat and pressing toward the goal.
On a battlefield, it is the leadership which refuses to surrender, finds a way to win, and leads from the front.
We admire it in an individual, we struggle to maintain it in ourselves, and we will die without it…motivation.
If we want to be a successful leader, we look to those who, having been tried in a crucible, came out to victory on the other side. And, having found them, we must uncover their motive, less we be guilty of merely mimicking their actions.
Perhaps no president has been studied as much as Abraham Lincoln and we could easily find ourselves occupied by his actions without searching out his motives…but we would do this great man a disservice and would hinder ourselves in our quest.
No doubt, a couple of things jump right to the front when we consider his motivation. For starters, how about saving the union? We could easily make that argument. Yet, saving the union was only relative to the preservation of that which was greater.
We could make a case that the emancipation of those held in bondage would provide all the motivation necessary to propel a man to cast aside every burden and press on to the goal which lies before him. Yet, even this noblest of causes does not reach the depth of Lincoln’s motivation.
It was a speech in Peoria where he challenged his listeners by saying:
“Let us re-adopt the Declaration of Independence, and with it, the practices, and policy, which harmonize with it. Let north and south -- let all Americans -- let all lovers of liberty everywhere -- join in the great and good work. If we do this, we shall not only have saved the Union; but we shall have so saved it, as to make, and to keep it, forever worthy of the saving. We shall have so saved it, that the succeeding millions of free happy people, the world over, shall rise up, and call us blessed, to the latest generations.”
That speech was given six years before this country would plunge itself into a great civil war. It was a clarion call to embrace that which we had walked away from. The Founders had made solemn declarations about us as a people. We had claimed a God given right to freedom as opposed to the charity of a government or a king. We had stated clearly, “that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”…and yet we allowed one citizen the right to enslave another. We were not walking in the truth we had proclaimed. By the sixteenth presidential administration, it had finally caught up to us.
The harmony which Lincoln sought…that place where practice and policy would merge so that all could enjoy the fruits of liberty, was not fully discovered in the Constitution…yet the foundation for it is laid out plainly in our Declaration of Independence.
Lincoln saw clearly that the United States was liberty’s hope. If the world would know freedom, its lamp could not be extinguished in America. If his country was broken asunder…if some of her sons and daughters remained in bondage…liberty would not continue and the promise that was independence would be consigned to that forgotten shelf of history.
Lincoln new that life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness were unalienable rights given by God and not granted by a government…and for the government to impose itself on that which was granted by God could only produce sorrows and shame.
If Life and Liberty were a gift of God’s grace, Lincoln wisely concluded that they were not merely to be experienced on our shores, but they belonged to the world as well. If they died here, there was no telling if the opportunity for men and women to know freedom would ever arise again.
Lincoln’s motivation was not simply to save or to set free, but rather to restore. It was in restoration of liberties principles that salvation and freedom would be found. And not simply found and preserved for future generations of Americans…it was to be for the world.
Even as our own countrymen struggled with freedom for all peoples, never the less, the foundation stood firm. Lincoln took us back to our beginnings that we might right the wrongs and provide a hope and a future to ourselves and our posterity.
Some may find it interesting and some may view it as prophetic the words of a speech given by Lincoln on September 11th, 1858 in Edwardsville, Illinois
What constitutes the bulwark of our own liberty and independence? It is not our frowning battlements, our bristling sea coasts, the guns of our war steamers, or the strength of our gallant and disciplined army. These are not our reliance against a resumption of tyranny in our fair land. All of them may be turned against our liberties, without making us stronger or weaker for the struggle. Our reliance is in the love of liberty which God has planted in our bosoms. Our defense is in the preservation of the spirit which prizes liberty as the heritage of all men, in all lands, every where. Destroy this spirit, and you have planted the seeds of despotism around your own doors.
It is our love of liberty that makes us a peculiar people. It was this love that was secured by our founders when they pledged their lives, their treasure, and their sacred honor. The price has not cheapened over time although the love of liberty is often hidden from a people who take it for granted.
Are we nobly defending liberty in this place or is it our own ambitions and affections? With every law we pass, with every word we speak in these halls we are building up or we are tearing down the principles that guard our freedom.
Our country was never intended to become merely a fortress where liberty could find a voice. We were never intended to simply provide safe haven for the oppressed peoples of the world. We were crafted as an instrument of change for the world…we are the example so that others might see. Lincoln ran to the battle with this in mind.
Consider for a moment that icon of liberty erected in New York’s harbor. Many have described the Statue of Liberty as guarding the gateway to freedom…that her presence bids the people of the world to come to our shores as she lights the way, but the artist had something far greater in mind.
The statues name in French is La Liberté éclairant le monde which translated m eans “Liberty Enlightening the World”. At her feet lies a broken chain and she is not standing in place, she is striding forward, away from our shores and moving out into the world. She is the vision that Abraham Lincoln had of America...the same vision shared by the founders and the signers of the Declaration of Independence.
It is a vision that may be lost on those who have confused power for liberty and money as the means of freedom. We are under attack by those who do not comprehend the essence of our spirit. It was seen on December 8th, 1941 and on September 12th, 2001 when flags fluttered from our homes and we stood together to reaffirm and readopt those principles that find fertile ground in our hearts.
On Abraham Lincoln's inaugural journey to Washington in February of 1861, he stopped in Philadelphia at the site where the Declaration of Independence had been signed and made a few remarks.
I am filled with deep emotion at finding myself standing here, in this place, where were collected together the wisdom, the patriotism, the devotion to principle, from which sprang the institutions under which we live. You have kindly suggested to me that in my hands is the task of restoring peace to the present distracted condition of the country. I can say in return, Sir, that all the political sentiments I entertain have been drawn, so far as I have been able to draw them, from the sentiments which originated and were given to the world from this hall. I have never had a feeling politically that did not spring from the sentiments embodied in the Declaration of Independence. I have often pondered over the dangers which were incurred by the men who assembled here, and framed and adopted that Declaration of Independence. I have pondered over the toils that were endured by the officers and soldiers of the army who achieved that Independence. I have often inquired of myself, what great principle or idea it was that kept this Confederacy so long together. It was not the mere matter of the separation of the Colonies from the motherland; but that sentiment in the Declaration of Independence which gave liberty, not alone to the people of this country, but, I hope, to the world, for all future time. It was that which gave promise that in due time the weight would be lifted from the shoulders of all men. This is a sentiment embodied in the Declaration of Independence. Now, my friends, can this country be saved upon that basis? If it can, I will consider myself one of the happiest men in the world, if I can help to save it. If it cannot be saved upon that principle, it will be truly awful. But if this country cannot be saved without giving up that principle, I was about to say I would rather be assassinated on this spot than surrender it.
Abraham Lincoln did not surrender the principles of liberty. He laid hold of them for future generations and preserved a heritage and hope for the entire world. That which stood up at Lexington and Concord...that which knelt humbly before God at Valley Forge...it stood at Antietam, Gettysburg, and Shiloh...it crawled through the Argonne Forest...it swam ashore from Pearl Harbor...it waded ashore at Normandy...it has been a hand extended to our friends and one brandishing a sword against tyrants...it is that same unquenchable spirit that dwells in me and you...and while we, as a family, can argue and be angry with one another from time to time...we are, in the end, family...bound together by cords of liberty, paid for with the blood of patriots, past...present...and future.
Let us encourage one another with these words and let us maintain these principles and be sure to teach them to our children’s children... that government of the people, by the people, and for the people will never perish from this earth.
May God bless this General Assembly and the Great State of Maryland.
by Delegate Michael A. McDermott
Motive is an interesting thing. I have questioned the motives of people for decades, as, no doubt, have you as well. As an investigator, I can tell you that finding the motive for a crime is a critical element in solving it.
On a ball field, it is easy to spot the team that lacks motivation. The best coaches are those who can keep their team upbeat and pressing toward the goal.
On a battlefield, it is the leadership which refuses to surrender, finds a way to win, and leads from the front.
We admire it in an individual, we struggle to maintain it in ourselves, and we will die without it…motivation.
If we want to be a successful leader, we look to those who, having been tried in a crucible, came out to victory on the other side. And, having found them, we must uncover their motive, less we be guilty of merely mimicking their actions.
Perhaps no president has been studied as much as Abraham Lincoln and we could easily find ourselves occupied by his actions without searching out his motives…but we would do this great man a disservice and would hinder ourselves in our quest.
No doubt, a couple of things jump right to the front when we consider his motivation. For starters, how about saving the union? We could easily make that argument. Yet, saving the union was only relative to the preservation of that which was greater.
We could make a case that the emancipation of those held in bondage would provide all the motivation necessary to propel a man to cast aside every burden and press on to the goal which lies before him. Yet, even this noblest of causes does not reach the depth of Lincoln’s motivation.
It was a speech in Peoria where he challenged his listeners by saying:
“Let us re-adopt the Declaration of Independence, and with it, the practices, and policy, which harmonize with it. Let north and south -- let all Americans -- let all lovers of liberty everywhere -- join in the great and good work. If we do this, we shall not only have saved the Union; but we shall have so saved it, as to make, and to keep it, forever worthy of the saving. We shall have so saved it, that the succeeding millions of free happy people, the world over, shall rise up, and call us blessed, to the latest generations.”
That speech was given six years before this country would plunge itself into a great civil war. It was a clarion call to embrace that which we had walked away from. The Founders had made solemn declarations about us as a people. We had claimed a God given right to freedom as opposed to the charity of a government or a king. We had stated clearly, “that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”…and yet we allowed one citizen the right to enslave another. We were not walking in the truth we had proclaimed. By the sixteenth presidential administration, it had finally caught up to us.
The harmony which Lincoln sought…that place where practice and policy would merge so that all could enjoy the fruits of liberty, was not fully discovered in the Constitution…yet the foundation for it is laid out plainly in our Declaration of Independence.
Lincoln saw clearly that the United States was liberty’s hope. If the world would know freedom, its lamp could not be extinguished in America. If his country was broken asunder…if some of her sons and daughters remained in bondage…liberty would not continue and the promise that was independence would be consigned to that forgotten shelf of history.
Lincoln new that life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness were unalienable rights given by God and not granted by a government…and for the government to impose itself on that which was granted by God could only produce sorrows and shame.
If Life and Liberty were a gift of God’s grace, Lincoln wisely concluded that they were not merely to be experienced on our shores, but they belonged to the world as well. If they died here, there was no telling if the opportunity for men and women to know freedom would ever arise again.
Lincoln’s motivation was not simply to save or to set free, but rather to restore. It was in restoration of liberties principles that salvation and freedom would be found. And not simply found and preserved for future generations of Americans…it was to be for the world.
Even as our own countrymen struggled with freedom for all peoples, never the less, the foundation stood firm. Lincoln took us back to our beginnings that we might right the wrongs and provide a hope and a future to ourselves and our posterity.
Some may find it interesting and some may view it as prophetic the words of a speech given by Lincoln on September 11th, 1858 in Edwardsville, Illinois
What constitutes the bulwark of our own liberty and independence? It is not our frowning battlements, our bristling sea coasts, the guns of our war steamers, or the strength of our gallant and disciplined army. These are not our reliance against a resumption of tyranny in our fair land. All of them may be turned against our liberties, without making us stronger or weaker for the struggle. Our reliance is in the love of liberty which God has planted in our bosoms. Our defense is in the preservation of the spirit which prizes liberty as the heritage of all men, in all lands, every where. Destroy this spirit, and you have planted the seeds of despotism around your own doors.
It is our love of liberty that makes us a peculiar people. It was this love that was secured by our founders when they pledged their lives, their treasure, and their sacred honor. The price has not cheapened over time although the love of liberty is often hidden from a people who take it for granted.
Are we nobly defending liberty in this place or is it our own ambitions and affections? With every law we pass, with every word we speak in these halls we are building up or we are tearing down the principles that guard our freedom.
Our country was never intended to become merely a fortress where liberty could find a voice. We were never intended to simply provide safe haven for the oppressed peoples of the world. We were crafted as an instrument of change for the world…we are the example so that others might see. Lincoln ran to the battle with this in mind.
Consider for a moment that icon of liberty erected in New York’s harbor. Many have described the Statue of Liberty as guarding the gateway to freedom…that her presence bids the people of the world to come to our shores as she lights the way, but the artist had something far greater in mind.
The statues name in French is La Liberté éclairant le monde which translated m eans “Liberty Enlightening the World”. At her feet lies a broken chain and she is not standing in place, she is striding forward, away from our shores and moving out into the world. She is the vision that Abraham Lincoln had of America...the same vision shared by the founders and the signers of the Declaration of Independence.
It is a vision that may be lost on those who have confused power for liberty and money as the means of freedom. We are under attack by those who do not comprehend the essence of our spirit. It was seen on December 8th, 1941 and on September 12th, 2001 when flags fluttered from our homes and we stood together to reaffirm and readopt those principles that find fertile ground in our hearts.
On Abraham Lincoln's inaugural journey to Washington in February of 1861, he stopped in Philadelphia at the site where the Declaration of Independence had been signed and made a few remarks.
I am filled with deep emotion at finding myself standing here, in this place, where were collected together the wisdom, the patriotism, the devotion to principle, from which sprang the institutions under which we live. You have kindly suggested to me that in my hands is the task of restoring peace to the present distracted condition of the country. I can say in return, Sir, that all the political sentiments I entertain have been drawn, so far as I have been able to draw them, from the sentiments which originated and were given to the world from this hall. I have never had a feeling politically that did not spring from the sentiments embodied in the Declaration of Independence. I have often pondered over the dangers which were incurred by the men who assembled here, and framed and adopted that Declaration of Independence. I have pondered over the toils that were endured by the officers and soldiers of the army who achieved that Independence. I have often inquired of myself, what great principle or idea it was that kept this Confederacy so long together. It was not the mere matter of the separation of the Colonies from the motherland; but that sentiment in the Declaration of Independence which gave liberty, not alone to the people of this country, but, I hope, to the world, for all future time. It was that which gave promise that in due time the weight would be lifted from the shoulders of all men. This is a sentiment embodied in the Declaration of Independence. Now, my friends, can this country be saved upon that basis? If it can, I will consider myself one of the happiest men in the world, if I can help to save it. If it cannot be saved upon that principle, it will be truly awful. But if this country cannot be saved without giving up that principle, I was about to say I would rather be assassinated on this spot than surrender it.
Abraham Lincoln did not surrender the principles of liberty. He laid hold of them for future generations and preserved a heritage and hope for the entire world. That which stood up at Lexington and Concord...that which knelt humbly before God at Valley Forge...it stood at Antietam, Gettysburg, and Shiloh...it crawled through the Argonne Forest...it swam ashore from Pearl Harbor...it waded ashore at Normandy...it has been a hand extended to our friends and one brandishing a sword against tyrants...it is that same unquenchable spirit that dwells in me and you...and while we, as a family, can argue and be angry with one another from time to time...we are, in the end, family...bound together by cords of liberty, paid for with the blood of patriots, past...present...and future.
Let us encourage one another with these words and let us maintain these principles and be sure to teach them to our children’s children... that government of the people, by the people, and for the people will never perish from this earth.
May God bless this General Assembly and the Great State of Maryland.
Second Nominee for Housing Board Of Adjustments And Appeals Blocked
Mayor James Ireton, Jr. regrets to inform the public that City Council leadership has blocked for the second time, his nominee to replace landlord Richard Insley on the City’s Housing Board of Adjustments and Appeals. Per the City of Salisbury Charter, the mayor is empowered to nominate members to the board. The Council votes on the nomination once recommended by the mayor.
“The City Charter does not give the City Council President the power to stop all government activity and say ‘we aren’t taking nominations’. I have nominated two very competent professionals for this seat. Council leadership is, again, bringing to a halt the administrative side of the city government. My nominee deserves a place on the agenda and an up or down vote. Mrs. Cohen has simply decided unilaterally to not place items on worksession and legislative agendas. Mrs. Cohen has turned down the latest nominee twice in the last two weeks. This is a direct violation of charter powers,” said Mayor Ireton.
Last year, Mayor Ireton nominated Katie Jones to fill this seat. This nomination was considered by the council but ultimately stalled before coming to a vote. Now the mayor has nominated Joey Gilkerson for Insley’s expired seat (exp: April 2010) on the Housing Board of Adjustments and Appeals.
“The City Charter does not give the City Council President the power to stop all government activity and say ‘we aren’t taking nominations’. I have nominated two very competent professionals for this seat. Council leadership is, again, bringing to a halt the administrative side of the city government. My nominee deserves a place on the agenda and an up or down vote. Mrs. Cohen has simply decided unilaterally to not place items on worksession and legislative agendas. Mrs. Cohen has turned down the latest nominee twice in the last two weeks. This is a direct violation of charter powers,” said Mayor Ireton.
Last year, Mayor Ireton nominated Katie Jones to fill this seat. This nomination was considered by the council but ultimately stalled before coming to a vote. Now the mayor has nominated Joey Gilkerson for Insley’s expired seat (exp: April 2010) on the Housing Board of Adjustments and Appeals.
New Posts to fall below.
News Corp May Face US Inquiry After Sun Arrests At News International
Alleged bribery in Britain could fall foul of US law as editor Dominic Mohan tries to rally staff at embattled tabloid
Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation faces the increased prospect of a full-blown inquiry by US authorities as part of the continuing investigation into alleged bribery of public officials under America's foreign corrupt practices act, after the latest round of arrests of senior journalists at the Sun this weekend.
Murdoch flies into London later this week on a scheduled visit at a time of turmoil for Britain's best-selling newspaper, with journalists on the title angry at News Corp's powerful management and standards committee (MSC), whose reconstruction and trawl of the company's email archive produced the evidence that led to the arrests.
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Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation faces the increased prospect of a full-blown inquiry by US authorities as part of the continuing investigation into alleged bribery of public officials under America's foreign corrupt practices act, after the latest round of arrests of senior journalists at the Sun this weekend.
Murdoch flies into London later this week on a scheduled visit at a time of turmoil for Britain's best-selling newspaper, with journalists on the title angry at News Corp's powerful management and standards committee (MSC), whose reconstruction and trawl of the company's email archive produced the evidence that led to the arrests.
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Severe Conservative Syndrome
Mitt Romney has a gift for words — self-destructive words. On Friday he did it again, telling the Conservative Political Action Conference that he was a “severely conservative governor.”
As Molly Ball of The Atlantic pointed out, Mr. Romney “described conservatism as if it were a disease.” Indeed. Mark Liberman, a linguistics professor at the University of Pennsylvania, provided a list of words that most commonly follow the adverb “severely”; the top five, in frequency of use, are disabled, depressed, ill, limited and injured.
That’s clearly not what Mr. Romney meant to convey. Yet if you look at the race for the G.O.P. presidential nomination, you have to wonder whether it was a Freudian slip. For something has clearly gone very wrong with modern American conservatism.
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As Molly Ball of The Atlantic pointed out, Mr. Romney “described conservatism as if it were a disease.” Indeed. Mark Liberman, a linguistics professor at the University of Pennsylvania, provided a list of words that most commonly follow the adverb “severely”; the top five, in frequency of use, are disabled, depressed, ill, limited and injured.
That’s clearly not what Mr. Romney meant to convey. Yet if you look at the race for the G.O.P. presidential nomination, you have to wonder whether it was a Freudian slip. For something has clearly gone very wrong with modern American conservatism.
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WBOC Wishes Everyone A Happy ValentiMe's Day
Not once, not twice but 5 times, (at least) their female reporter kept calling it ValentiMe's Day.Next she'll be wishing everyone a Happy Birfday.
Third Poll Shows Santorum Edging Out Romney
A new national poll on Tuesday underlined Rick Santorum's front-runner status, showing the former Pennsylvania senator in first place ahead of Mitt Romney.
Santorum took 30 percent support compared to Romney's 27 percent, according to a new poll by CBS News and the New York Times. Santorum's lead is within the margin of error, but is consistent with two other national polls released on Monday that also showed Santorum and Romney in a dead heat.
Newt Gingrich had dropped to last in the national poll, with 10 percent. Rep. Ron Paul (Texas) took third with 12 percent.
Man Arrested After Stealing Copper Wire
Location: Delmarva Power Storage Yard, 700 East DuPont Boulevard, Millsboro, DE
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday February 14, 2012 at 1:30 a.m.
Victim:
Delmarva Power
Defendant, Charges, and Bail Information:
Christopher L. Kemp, 32, Millsboro, DE
Theft Greater than $1,500.00
Attempted Theft Greater than $1,500.00
Possession of Burglar Tools
Conspiracy 2nd (2 counts)
Criminal Mischief
Criminal Trespass 2nd (2 counts)
Arraigned at JP3 and released on $2,050.00 secured bond.
Resume:
Millsboro DE- The Delaware State Police have arrested a man in connection with an early morning theft.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. this morning when State Troopers responded to the Delmarva Power Storage Yard in Millsboro after receiving an alarm. Upon their arrival, two suspects were observed inside the fence line of the yard. One of the suspects was able to flee and avoid being captured while Christopher L. Kemp, 32, was found behind a large spool of wire and was placed in custody.
Kemp’s vehicle was also located in the storage yard which contained a pair of bolt cutters that were stolen the previous night when the fence line was damaged and copper wire was removed. The vehicle also contained several rolls of copper wire which is estimated to be over $1,500.00 in value.
Kemp was arrested and charged with the above crimes. He was arraigned at JP3 and released on $2,050.00 secured bond.
There is no suspect information on the other person who fled the area other than a white male.
To offer information in reference to this incident, the public is asked to contact Troop 4 at 302-856-5850 extension 211 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."
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday February 14, 2012 at 1:30 a.m.
Victim:
Delmarva Power
Defendant, Charges, and Bail Information:
Christopher L. Kemp, 32, Millsboro, DE
Theft Greater than $1,500.00
Attempted Theft Greater than $1,500.00
Possession of Burglar Tools
Conspiracy 2nd (2 counts)
Criminal Mischief
Criminal Trespass 2nd (2 counts)
Arraigned at JP3 and released on $2,050.00 secured bond.
Resume:
Millsboro DE- The Delaware State Police have arrested a man in connection with an early morning theft.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. this morning when State Troopers responded to the Delmarva Power Storage Yard in Millsboro after receiving an alarm. Upon their arrival, two suspects were observed inside the fence line of the yard. One of the suspects was able to flee and avoid being captured while Christopher L. Kemp, 32, was found behind a large spool of wire and was placed in custody.
Kemp’s vehicle was also located in the storage yard which contained a pair of bolt cutters that were stolen the previous night when the fence line was damaged and copper wire was removed. The vehicle also contained several rolls of copper wire which is estimated to be over $1,500.00 in value.
Kemp was arrested and charged with the above crimes. He was arraigned at JP3 and released on $2,050.00 secured bond.
There is no suspect information on the other person who fled the area other than a white male.
To offer information in reference to this incident, the public is asked to contact Troop 4 at 302-856-5850 extension 211 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."
Missouri Will Balance Its Budget With Foreclosure Settlement Funds
Last week, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) announced that he would use the funds his state received from a $26 billion mortgage settlement between 49 states and the nation’s largest banks to help balance the state’s budget, even though the settlement money was marked to help homeowners. In all, Walker will use $25.6 million of the $31.6 million Wisconsin’s state government receives to help close a budget shortfall.
Though Walker’s move to push struggling homeowners aside may seem radical, it is now being followed by at least one other state. Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon (D) and Attorney General Chris Koster (D) have pledged to put $40 million of the state’s $196 million share of the settlement into the state’s general fund to boost its higher education budget, Stateline reports:
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Though Walker’s move to push struggling homeowners aside may seem radical, it is now being followed by at least one other state. Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon (D) and Attorney General Chris Koster (D) have pledged to put $40 million of the state’s $196 million share of the settlement into the state’s general fund to boost its higher education budget, Stateline reports:
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Wall Street On Track For Record Political Spending In Attempt To Defeat Obama
With Wall Street profits and bonuses falling and big banks cutting jobs right and left, it seems that the financial services sector would be scaling back its free-spending ways.
But, according to a Center for Responsive Politics analysis, they likely to set records in 2012 on political spending — the bulk of which is aimed at defeating President Barack Obama and electing Republicans opposed to the Dodd-Frank financial regulations enacted to address the sector’s 2008 meltdown.
It seems Wall Street has had its feelings hurt by the Obama administration’s increasingly vocal support for policies that benefit the other 99 percent, and as a result, the financial industry is giving heavily to Republicans and, in particular, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney (R). Politico reports:
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But, according to a Center for Responsive Politics analysis, they likely to set records in 2012 on political spending — the bulk of which is aimed at defeating President Barack Obama and electing Republicans opposed to the Dodd-Frank financial regulations enacted to address the sector’s 2008 meltdown.
It seems Wall Street has had its feelings hurt by the Obama administration’s increasingly vocal support for policies that benefit the other 99 percent, and as a result, the financial industry is giving heavily to Republicans and, in particular, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney (R). Politico reports:
More
3rd Friday: Art & Entertainment In Downtown Salisbury
3rd Friday in Downtown Salisbury is this Friday February 17th from 5- 8pm. 3rd Friday will be the place to be, with art shows, shopping and dining in Salisbury's beautiful Downtown. All along Main Street shops and restaurants will be open with specials and sales. Art Shows from AIG and the 3F Team, along with a special event from SWAC, all make it a wonderful night to stroll around downtown.
This Friday is a huge night for AI&G. The 2012 Blooming Artist Youth Show opening is 5-7, with over 300 pieces of art work from emerging, young local artists. This show includes works from the Parkside High School Visual and Performing Arts Program. Bitna Shin, Senior at Parkside will have a full solo exhibition in the Foyer Gallery. Friday is also AI&G's famous annual Chili Bowl Fundraiser. Buy a handcrafted pottery bowl and get the chili for free!
The 3rd Friday Art Show will again be set up in its new location, the Vernon Powell Building. The Vernon Powell Building is located right on the Plaza, at 218 W. Main Street. The 3F Art Show will feature live music, as well as, local painters, photographers, sculptors, and crafters. Stop on by to see some great art and locally made items for sale!
SWAC will be celebrating "The Art of Love" for 3rd Friday with poetry, love songs, film, and crafts of the heart from 5:30pm-7:30pm. The event will be held at SWAC's headquarters, above Season's Best Antiques, at 104 Poplar Hill Ave. Stop on by with your sweetie, before you shop Season's Best Famous 3rd Friday Sale!
3F is an all-volunteer effort, a downtown economic development initiative and a project of the Salisbury Arts & Entertainment District Committee.
For more information: 3rdFridaySby@gmail.com or Visit www.3rdfridaysby.com.
This Friday is a huge night for AI&G. The 2012 Blooming Artist Youth Show opening is 5-7, with over 300 pieces of art work from emerging, young local artists. This show includes works from the Parkside High School Visual and Performing Arts Program. Bitna Shin, Senior at Parkside will have a full solo exhibition in the Foyer Gallery. Friday is also AI&G's famous annual Chili Bowl Fundraiser. Buy a handcrafted pottery bowl and get the chili for free!
The 3rd Friday Art Show will again be set up in its new location, the Vernon Powell Building. The Vernon Powell Building is located right on the Plaza, at 218 W. Main Street. The 3F Art Show will feature live music, as well as, local painters, photographers, sculptors, and crafters. Stop on by to see some great art and locally made items for sale!
SWAC will be celebrating "The Art of Love" for 3rd Friday with poetry, love songs, film, and crafts of the heart from 5:30pm-7:30pm. The event will be held at SWAC's headquarters, above Season's Best Antiques, at 104 Poplar Hill Ave. Stop on by with your sweetie, before you shop Season's Best Famous 3rd Friday Sale!
3F is an all-volunteer effort, a downtown economic development initiative and a project of the Salisbury Arts & Entertainment District Committee.
For more information: 3rdFridaySby@gmail.com or Visit www.3rdfridaysby.com.
Ladies Soup And Sandwich
SOUP & SANDWICH
Saturday March 3, 2012
Mardela Springs Fire House
11 am until sold out
EAT IN OR CARRY OUT
Oyster Fritter Sandwiches
Homemade Chicken Salad
French Fries Hot Dogs
DUMPLINGS
HOMEMADE SOUPS
Peas N Dumplings Dried Lima Beans
Vegetable Green Lima Bean & Corn
Chicken Noodle Soup
BAKE TABLE & Homemade Ice Cream
Sodas Coffee Water
BREWED TEA
RADA Brand Knives, Flavoring for baking
All proceeds benefit
Mardela Springs Vol. Fire Co. Ladies Auxiliary
Saturday March 3, 2012
Mardela Springs Fire House
11 am until sold out
EAT IN OR CARRY OUT
Oyster Fritter Sandwiches
Homemade Chicken Salad
French Fries Hot Dogs
DUMPLINGS
HOMEMADE SOUPS
Peas N Dumplings Dried Lima Beans
Vegetable Green Lima Bean & Corn
Chicken Noodle Soup
BAKE TABLE & Homemade Ice Cream
Sodas Coffee Water
BREWED TEA
RADA Brand Knives, Flavoring for baking
All proceeds benefit
Mardela Springs Vol. Fire Co. Ladies Auxiliary
N.J. Senate Approves Bill Legalizing Gay Marriage
TRENTON — The state Senate passed a bill legalizing gay marriage this afternoon by a vote of 24-16.
Two Republicans, Sen. Jennifer Beck (R-Monmouth) and Sen. Diane Allen (R-Burlington) voted yes on the bill.
“We have some among us who are separate and not equal,” Beck said.
The bills passage elicited a round of applause from those in the audience wearing blue in support of the bill, which Gov. Chris Christie has promised to veto. Sen. Ray Lesniak (D-Union), a co-sponsor, raised his arm in victory and said “Yes!”
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Two Republicans, Sen. Jennifer Beck (R-Monmouth) and Sen. Diane Allen (R-Burlington) voted yes on the bill.
“We have some among us who are separate and not equal,” Beck said.
The bills passage elicited a round of applause from those in the audience wearing blue in support of the bill, which Gov. Chris Christie has promised to veto. Sen. Ray Lesniak (D-Union), a co-sponsor, raised his arm in victory and said “Yes!”
More
Fox Pundit Says Women In The Military Should ‘Expect’ To Be Raped
The Pentagon announced new rules last week easing the ban on women serving in combat. While conservatives like Rick Santorum are a little uneasy with the news, the announcement only formalizes military practices that were already taking place.
But Fox News contributor Liz Trotta’s commentary on the matter took the issue to a whole other level. She’s not really concerned about the “controversy” surrounding the Pentagon’s announcement. For Trotta, the issue is having “women once more, the feminist, going, wanting to be warriors and victims at the same time.” She cited a recent Pentagon report that violent sex crimes in the military have increased over the last 6 years and said women should “expect” it, decrying more levels of bureaucracy to support women who have been “raped too much“:
In The Constitution, "Security" Means Protection From Our Law Enforcers, Not By Them
The earth's core, consisting largely of iron, helps balance our spinning planet. On the other hand, the core of too many of today's prominent political leaders consists almost entirely of unintended irony, which tends to make them go all wobbly on their political stands. This might be comical were it not so destructive for our nation.
For example, check out the politicos who're raising such a cacophony these days about big, intrusive government. Ironically, they're usually the same knee-jerks who so fervidly advocate the expansion of government's biggest and most intrusive force: police power. Since 9/11, this bunch has screeched non-stop that the only way to make the American people secure in this terrifying age is to jackhammer the word "secure" out of the Fourth Amendment--the only place in the Bill of Rights where the term appears.
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For example, check out the politicos who're raising such a cacophony these days about big, intrusive government. Ironically, they're usually the same knee-jerks who so fervidly advocate the expansion of government's biggest and most intrusive force: police power. Since 9/11, this bunch has screeched non-stop that the only way to make the American people secure in this terrifying age is to jackhammer the word "secure" out of the Fourth Amendment--the only place in the Bill of Rights where the term appears.
More
Iran War Would Cost Trillions: Will The GOP Pay More Taxes For That?
While GOP presidential candidate Ron Paul is doing all he can in this election cycle to gin up a debate about U.S. foreign policy and a measure of the costs and benefits, the debate about Iran, China, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Israel's security has been taking place in a gravityless environment.
Mitt Romney's opening foreign-policy opus at the Citadel criticized Obama for defense cuts with promises to boost America's defense commitments abroad, to boost military spending on hardware and ships in the Pacific -- to do everything we have been doing but more.
Where are the dollars going to come from?
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Mitt Romney's opening foreign-policy opus at the Citadel criticized Obama for defense cuts with promises to boost America's defense commitments abroad, to boost military spending on hardware and ships in the Pacific -- to do everything we have been doing but more.
Where are the dollars going to come from?
More
Take A U-2 Ride
This is pretty cool. We don't fly the Blackbird anymore -- U-2 is still working hard.
You can see why the U-2 is considered the most difficult plane in the world to fly. Each pilot has a co-pilot, who chases the plane on the runway in a sports car.
Most of the cars are either Pontiac GTOs or Chevrolet Camaros — the Air Force buys American. The chase cars talk the pilot down as he lands on bicycle-style landing gear.
In that spacesuit, the pilot in the plane simply cannot get a good view of the runway. Upon takeoff, the wings on this plane, which extend 103 feet from tip to tip, literally flap.
To stabilize the wings on the runway, two pogo sticks on wheels prop up the ends of the wings. As the plane flies away, the pogo sticks drop off.
The plane climbs at an amazing rate of nearly 10,000 feet a minute. Within about four minutes, I was at 40,000 feet, higher than any commercial airplane.
We kept going up to 13 miles above Earth's surface.
You get an incredible sensation up there. As you look out the windows, it feels like you're floating, it feels like you're not moving, but you're actually going 500 mph.
The U-2 was built to go higher than any other aircraft. In fact today, more than 50 years since it went into production, the U-2 flies higher than any aircraft in the world with the exception of the space shuttle.
It is flying more missions and longer missions than ever before — nearly 70 missions a month over Iraq and Afghanistan , an operational tempo that is unequaled in history.
The pilots fly for 11 hours at a time, sometimes more than 11 hours up there alone. By flying so high, the U-2 has the capability of doing reconnaissance over a country without actually violating its airspace.
It can look off to the side, peering 300 miles or more inside a country without actually flying over it. It can "see" in the dark and through clouds. It can also "hear," intercepting conversations 14 miles below.
The U-2, an incredible piece of history and also a current piece of high technology, is at the center of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan .
Enjoy the ride!
Click Here for a Ride In a U2 - Have Your Sound On:
http://www.wimp.com/breathtakingfootage/
You can see why the U-2 is considered the most difficult plane in the world to fly. Each pilot has a co-pilot, who chases the plane on the runway in a sports car.
Most of the cars are either Pontiac GTOs or Chevrolet Camaros — the Air Force buys American. The chase cars talk the pilot down as he lands on bicycle-style landing gear.
In that spacesuit, the pilot in the plane simply cannot get a good view of the runway. Upon takeoff, the wings on this plane, which extend 103 feet from tip to tip, literally flap.
To stabilize the wings on the runway, two pogo sticks on wheels prop up the ends of the wings. As the plane flies away, the pogo sticks drop off.
The plane climbs at an amazing rate of nearly 10,000 feet a minute. Within about four minutes, I was at 40,000 feet, higher than any commercial airplane.
We kept going up to 13 miles above Earth's surface.
You get an incredible sensation up there. As you look out the windows, it feels like you're floating, it feels like you're not moving, but you're actually going 500 mph.
The U-2 was built to go higher than any other aircraft. In fact today, more than 50 years since it went into production, the U-2 flies higher than any aircraft in the world with the exception of the space shuttle.
It is flying more missions and longer missions than ever before — nearly 70 missions a month over Iraq and Afghanistan , an operational tempo that is unequaled in history.
The pilots fly for 11 hours at a time, sometimes more than 11 hours up there alone. By flying so high, the U-2 has the capability of doing reconnaissance over a country without actually violating its airspace.
It can look off to the side, peering 300 miles or more inside a country without actually flying over it. It can "see" in the dark and through clouds. It can also "hear," intercepting conversations 14 miles below.
The U-2, an incredible piece of history and also a current piece of high technology, is at the center of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan .
Enjoy the ride!
Click Here for a Ride In a U2 - Have Your Sound On:
http://www.wimp.com/breathtakingfootage/
We've Been Neo-Conned by Ron Paul
The modern-day, limited-government movement has been co-opted. The conservatives have failed in their effort to shrink the size of government. There has not been, nor will there soon be, a conservative revolution in Washington. Political party control of the federal government has changed, but the inexorable growth in the size and scope of government has continued unabated. The liberal arguments for limited government in personal affairs and foreign military adventurism were never seriously considered as part of this revolution.
Since the change of the political party in charge has not made a difference, who's really in charge? If the particular party in power makes little difference, whose policy is it that permits expanded government programs, increased spending, huge deficits, nation building and the pervasive invasion of our privacy, with fewer Fourth Amendment protections than ever before?
Someone is responsible, and it's important that those of us who love liberty, and resent big-brother government, identify the philosophic supporters who have the most to say about the direction our country is going. If they're wrong – and I believe they are – we need to show it, alert the American people, and offer a more positive approach to government. However, this depends on whether the American people desire to live in a free society and reject the dangerous notion that we need a strong central government to take care of us from the cradle to the grave. Do the American people really believe it's the government's responsibility to make us morally better and economically equal? Do we have a responsibility to police the world, while imposing our vision of good government on everyone else in the world with some form of utopian nation building? If not, and the enemies of liberty are exposed and rejected, then it behooves us to present an alternative philosophy that is morally superior and economically sound and provides a guide to world affairs to enhance peace and commerce.
More
Since the change of the political party in charge has not made a difference, who's really in charge? If the particular party in power makes little difference, whose policy is it that permits expanded government programs, increased spending, huge deficits, nation building and the pervasive invasion of our privacy, with fewer Fourth Amendment protections than ever before?
Someone is responsible, and it's important that those of us who love liberty, and resent big-brother government, identify the philosophic supporters who have the most to say about the direction our country is going. If they're wrong – and I believe they are – we need to show it, alert the American people, and offer a more positive approach to government. However, this depends on whether the American people desire to live in a free society and reject the dangerous notion that we need a strong central government to take care of us from the cradle to the grave. Do the American people really believe it's the government's responsibility to make us morally better and economically equal? Do we have a responsibility to police the world, while imposing our vision of good government on everyone else in the world with some form of utopian nation building? If not, and the enemies of liberty are exposed and rejected, then it behooves us to present an alternative philosophy that is morally superior and economically sound and provides a guide to world affairs to enhance peace and commerce.
More
MBRG: It's Hurry Up And Wait On The Gas Tax
Towson, MD - Following the O'Malley Administration's decision to delay introducing the fuel tax bill, Maryland Business for Responsive Government noted today that sales taxes - as applied to other consumer purchases including gasoline - are nothing more than another revenue source to support general fund spending.
The Governor proposes phasing in a 6% sales tax in 2% increments over a three-year period to fuel. Now it appears that plan, as the Governor outlined in recent weeks during media interviews and in the state-of-the state address, are under review. In remarks to WBAL radio yesterday evening, the Governor said that although he has signed off on the legislation, there nevertheless "was some delay in presenting the bill to stakeholders and legislative leaders."
http://www.wbal.com/article/86631/2/template-story/OMalley-Signs-Off-On-Gas-Tax-Bill
"It's hurry up and wait," said Maryland Business for Responsive Government President Kimberly M. Burns. "People are not going to fall for a fuel tax that will not work as advertised.
While there is plenty of talk about the need to invest in infrastructure, there is still no plan in place to ensure adequate transportation investments."
The existing sales tax is Maryland's second-largest general fund revenue source after the individual income tax. With estimated annual revenues of $613 million, enacting Governor O'Malley's proposal of imposing the sales tax to fuel would increase the sales tax by 17%, overall, as a general fund revenue component. While that would enable state spending, the unanswered question is how to ensure adequate transportation funding.
Short of a constitutional amendment, the effectiveness of which itself is debatable, there is no permanent solution to protecting future fund raids, which in recent years has had nearly $1 billion siphoned from it for unintended purposes.
"What got us into this problem in the first place are these irresponsible fund raids," said Burns. "Now that the bills are due, suddenly there is this mad scramble for new revenue in the form of an urgent tax increase. This is too expensive of a burden on consumers and businesses, and we urge the Administration to use this time wisely to re-evaluate where they are going and how they plan to get there.”
QUOTES OF THE DAY 2-14-12
“There are some ideas so wrong that only a very intelligent person could believe in them.” – George Orwell
“…most men and women will grow up to love their servitude and will never dream of revolution.” – Aldous Huxley – Brave New World
“Those who vote decide nothing. Those who count the vote decide everything.” – Joseph Stalin
“In our age there is no such thing as ‘keeping out of politics.’ All issues are political issues, and politics itself is a mass of lies, evasions, folly, hatred and schizophrenia. The very concept of objective truth is fading out of the world. Lies will pass into history.” – George Orwell
“…most men and women will grow up to love their servitude and will never dream of revolution.” – Aldous Huxley – Brave New World
“Those who vote decide nothing. Those who count the vote decide everything.” – Joseph Stalin
“In our age there is no such thing as ‘keeping out of politics.’ All issues are political issues, and politics itself is a mass of lies, evasions, folly, hatred and schizophrenia. The very concept of objective truth is fading out of the world. Lies will pass into history.” – George Orwell
Pew: 1.8 Million Dead Registered To Vote
A new report says about 24 million voter registrations in the United States contain significant errors, showing the system is in shambles.
The study released Tuesday by the Pew Center on the States found that about 1.8 million dead people are still on the rolls and 2.5 million can vote in more than one state.
And 51 million, or one in four, eligible citizens are not registered to vote at all.
About 12 million registrations contain address inaccuracies, which means mailings aren't getting to them. Researchers say they don't see evidence of widespread fraud but believe outdated state systems are failing to keep pace with changes in people's lives.
Read more
The study released Tuesday by the Pew Center on the States found that about 1.8 million dead people are still on the rolls and 2.5 million can vote in more than one state.
And 51 million, or one in four, eligible citizens are not registered to vote at all.
About 12 million registrations contain address inaccuracies, which means mailings aren't getting to them. Researchers say they don't see evidence of widespread fraud but believe outdated state systems are failing to keep pace with changes in people's lives.
Read more
Samuel L. Jackson: ‘I Voted For Barack Because He Was Black’
Samuel L. Jackson only voted for President Barack Obama because of the color of his skin, the Hollywood actor revealed in a profanity-laced interview in the March issue of Ebony magazine.
“I voted for Barack because he was black. ’Cuz that’s why other folks vote for other people — because they look like them,” Jackson said. "That’s American politics, pure and simple. [Obama’s] message didn’t mean sh-t to me. In the end, he’s a politician. I just hoped he would do some of what he said he was gonna do.
According to the New York Post, the "Pulp Fiction" legend repeatedly dropped the N-word during his cover story interview.
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“I voted for Barack because he was black. ’Cuz that’s why other folks vote for other people — because they look like them,” Jackson said. "That’s American politics, pure and simple. [Obama’s] message didn’t mean sh-t to me. In the end, he’s a politician. I just hoped he would do some of what he said he was gonna do.
According to the New York Post, the "Pulp Fiction" legend repeatedly dropped the N-word during his cover story interview.
More
Feds Shut Down Amish Farm For Selling Fresh Milk
The FDA won its two-year fight to shut down an Amish farmer who was selling fresh raw milk to eager consumers in the Washington, D.C., region after a judge this month banned Daniel Allgyer from selling his milk across state lines and he told his customers he would shut down his farm altogether.
The decision has enraged Mr. Allgyer's supporters, some of whom have been buying from him for six years and say the government is interfering with their parental rights to feed their children.
But the Food and Drug Administration, which launched a full investigation complete with a 5 a.m. surprise inspection and a straw-purchase sting operation against Mr. Allgyer's Rainbow Acres Farm, said unpasteurized milk is unsafe and it was exercising its due authority to stop sales of the milk from one state to another.
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The decision has enraged Mr. Allgyer's supporters, some of whom have been buying from him for six years and say the government is interfering with their parental rights to feed their children.
But the Food and Drug Administration, which launched a full investigation complete with a 5 a.m. surprise inspection and a straw-purchase sting operation against Mr. Allgyer's Rainbow Acres Farm, said unpasteurized milk is unsafe and it was exercising its due authority to stop sales of the milk from one state to another.
More
Gallup, Pew Polls: Santorum Ties Romney
Republican presidential contender Rick Santorum has vaulted into a front-runner’s position with Mitt Romney in two national polls that show the race for the GOP nomination becoming a two-man statistical tie. The polls, by Gallup and the Pew Research Center, reflect the topsy-turvy nature of this GOP race, with Santorum shaking up the perceived leader's status after winning all three contests on Feb. 7 and the fact that top GOP leaders continue to question Romney's conservative credentials.
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Gay Marriage Will Be Voted On TODAY
The Gay Marriage bill will be voted on this afternoon at 4:30 in Judiciary and Health/Government Operations Committees.
Santorum’s Turn
At the moment Rick Santorum appears to be overtaking Newt Gingrich as the principal challenger to Mitt Romney. Santorum has won more contests than Gingrich (who has won only one), has more delegates, and leads him in the polls. In at least one poll, he also leads Romney. It isn’t yet a Romney–Santorum contest, but it could be headed that way.
We hope so. Gingrich’s verbal and intellectual talents should make him a resource for any future Republican president. But it would be a grave mistake for the party to make someone with such poor judgment and persistent unpopularity its presidential nominee. It is not clear whether Gingrich remains in the race because he still believes he could become president next year or because he wants to avenge his wounded pride: an ambiguity that suggests the problem with him as a leader. When he led Santorum in the polls, he urged the Pennsylvanian to leave the race. On his own arguments the proper course for him now is to endorse Santorum and exit.
Santorum has been conducting himself rather impressively in his moments of triumph and avoiding characteristic temptations. He is doing his best to keep the press from dismissing him as merely a “social-issues candidate.” His recent remark that losing his Senate seat in 2006 taught him the importance of humility suggests an appealing self-awareness. And he has rightly identified the declining stability of middle-class families as a threat to the American experiment, even if his proposed solutions are poorly designed. But sensible policies, important as they are, are not the immediate challenge for his candidacy. Proving he can run a national campaign is.
Romney remains the undramatic figure at the center of the primaries’ drama. Lack of enthusiasm for him has set it all in motion. Romney is trying to win the nomination by pulverizing his rivals. His hope is that enthusiasm will follow when he takes on Obama in the summer and fall. But his attacks on Santorum have been lame, perhaps because they are patently insincere.
More
We hope so. Gingrich’s verbal and intellectual talents should make him a resource for any future Republican president. But it would be a grave mistake for the party to make someone with such poor judgment and persistent unpopularity its presidential nominee. It is not clear whether Gingrich remains in the race because he still believes he could become president next year or because he wants to avenge his wounded pride: an ambiguity that suggests the problem with him as a leader. When he led Santorum in the polls, he urged the Pennsylvanian to leave the race. On his own arguments the proper course for him now is to endorse Santorum and exit.
Santorum has been conducting himself rather impressively in his moments of triumph and avoiding characteristic temptations. He is doing his best to keep the press from dismissing him as merely a “social-issues candidate.” His recent remark that losing his Senate seat in 2006 taught him the importance of humility suggests an appealing self-awareness. And he has rightly identified the declining stability of middle-class families as a threat to the American experiment, even if his proposed solutions are poorly designed. But sensible policies, important as they are, are not the immediate challenge for his candidacy. Proving he can run a national campaign is.
Romney remains the undramatic figure at the center of the primaries’ drama. Lack of enthusiasm for him has set it all in motion. Romney is trying to win the nomination by pulverizing his rivals. His hope is that enthusiasm will follow when he takes on Obama in the summer and fall. But his attacks on Santorum have been lame, perhaps because they are patently insincere.
More
Gallup: Santorum Surges To Tie Romney
Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum are now statistically tied for the lead in Republican registered voters' preferences for the 2012 GOP nomination -- 32% to 30%, respectively. Newt Gingrich, who led the field as recently as late January, is now third, favored by 16%, while Ron Paul's support has dwindled to 8%, the lowest level yet seen for him in 2012.
Facts and figures here
Facts and figures here
Bear Man Arrested After Strong Arm Robbery
Location: Parking lot of Stanton Pharmacy, 2012 W. Newport Pike, Stanton, DE
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday, February 14, 2012 at 10:28 a.m.
Victim:
48 year old Hartly, DE man
Defendant and Charges:
William H. Hinckle, 28, Bear, DE
Robbery 1st Degree
Arraignment information is not available at this time.
Resume:
Stanton, DE- Delaware State Police detectives have arrested a Bear, DE man following a strong arm robbery that occurred in the parking lot of an area pharmacy this morning.
The incident happened at approximately 10:28 a.m. this morning after a 48 year old Hartly, DE man had just exited the Stanton Pharmacy located in the 2000 block of W. Newport Pike, Stanton after having a prescription for medication filled. The victim was then approached by a male suspect, later identified as William H. Hinckle, who attempted to take the victim’s medication. The victim, however, refused to let go, and began struggling with Hinckle. Both Hinckle and the victim fell to the ground at which point, Hinckle was able to wrestle the medication from the victim and attempt to flee through the parking lot. He was then chased by three witnesses who tackled him to the ground and held him until the arrival of an officer from the Newport Police Department who then took him into custody. The victim suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene by responding EMS personnel.
William H. Hinckle was arrested and charged with one count of Robbery 1st Degree. His arraignment information is not available at this time.
4th NYPD Officer In 4 Weeks Kills Himself
A 14-year veteran of the New York Police Department apparently shot himself to death Monday after finishing his shift, becoming the fourth NYPD officer to commit suicide in less than a month, The New York Post reported Tuesday.
Matthew Schindler, 39, finished his shift in Queens, N.Y., and then shot himself under the chin off of the Long Island Expressway in Jericho around 4:30 p.m. ET, sources told The Post. The married father of three had texted his sergeant minutes before to tell him goodbye, The Post reported.
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Matthew Schindler, 39, finished his shift in Queens, N.Y., and then shot himself under the chin off of the Long Island Expressway in Jericho around 4:30 p.m. ET, sources told The Post. The married father of three had texted his sergeant minutes before to tell him goodbye, The Post reported.
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OCEAN CITY POLICE UNDERCOVER OFFICER POSES AS CAB DRIVER; NEARLY TWO YEAR INVESTIGATION LEADS TO 34 INDICTMENTS
The Ocean City Police Department’s narcotics unit recently concluded a nearly two-year undercover investigation with the criminal indictments of 34 individuals. The indictments, which included 91 charges of distribution of controlled dangerous substances (CDS) and 28 charges of conspiracy to distribute CDS, resulted in preset bonds totaling $4,555,000.
During the investigation, an Ocean City Police detective acting in a covert capacity started a legitimate taxicab company during which the detective acted as the owner/operator. The cab company, the “Tipsy Taxi,” had an actual official Town of Ocean City cab license and ran legitimate fares, in addition to the undercover operation.
On February 2, 2012, the Ocean City Police Department, along with the Worcester County Criminal Enforcement Team, began apprehending the indicted suspects. During the course of three days, the law enforcement teams apprehended 22 of 34 individuals. In addition to those apprehended, four of the suspects were already incarcerated on unrelated charges. The arrest warrants for the remaining wanted individuals who are no longer living in the Ocean City area will be turned over to the Maryland State Apprehension Team (MSAT).
“I commend our narcotics unit for their investigative initiative,” said Chief Bernadette A. DiPino. “I also want to commend the undercover detective involved in this operation. The self sacrifice and dedication to this lengthy investigation demonstrated incredible commitment and reflects great credit upon them and all of the law enforcement officers involved.”
During the operation, the Ocean City Police Department seized two vehicles, a stolen firearm and $985 in cash. “This operation would not have been possible without our partners at the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and the Worcester County State’s Attorney,” Chief DiPino said. “Sheriff Mason, State’s Attorney Oglesby and members of their agencies, have helped in not only keeping drugs off the streets of Ocean City, but Worcester County as a whole and continue to make our community a safe place to live, work and visit.”
During the investigation, an Ocean City Police detective acting in a covert capacity started a legitimate taxicab company during which the detective acted as the owner/operator. The cab company, the “Tipsy Taxi,” had an actual official Town of Ocean City cab license and ran legitimate fares, in addition to the undercover operation.
On February 2, 2012, the Ocean City Police Department, along with the Worcester County Criminal Enforcement Team, began apprehending the indicted suspects. During the course of three days, the law enforcement teams apprehended 22 of 34 individuals. In addition to those apprehended, four of the suspects were already incarcerated on unrelated charges. The arrest warrants for the remaining wanted individuals who are no longer living in the Ocean City area will be turned over to the Maryland State Apprehension Team (MSAT).
“I commend our narcotics unit for their investigative initiative,” said Chief Bernadette A. DiPino. “I also want to commend the undercover detective involved in this operation. The self sacrifice and dedication to this lengthy investigation demonstrated incredible commitment and reflects great credit upon them and all of the law enforcement officers involved.”
During the operation, the Ocean City Police Department seized two vehicles, a stolen firearm and $985 in cash. “This operation would not have been possible without our partners at the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and the Worcester County State’s Attorney,” Chief DiPino said. “Sheriff Mason, State’s Attorney Oglesby and members of their agencies, have helped in not only keeping drugs off the streets of Ocean City, but Worcester County as a whole and continue to make our community a safe place to live, work and visit.”
Salisbury Police Armed Robbery Arrest
Corey Chandler Wolcott, 37yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested and charged with Armed Robbery, Attempted Armed Robbery, 3 counts Robbery, 3 counts Attempted Robbery, 3 counts Disorderly Conduct, Conceal Dangerous Weapon, 3 counts Reckless Endangerment.
On February 13, 2012 at approximately 8:02pm, officers responded to the Shell Gas Station located in the 900 block of Snow Hill Rd for an attempted robbery. On arrival, the suspect had fled the scene. Officers learned that the suspect entered into the store and ordered the employee to give him money from the register. The employee then told the suspect that he was going to call 911 and in doing so the suspect fled from the store. A description of the suspect was broadcast.
Approximately 4 minutes later (8:06pm), officers responded to the Wendy’s Restaurant located at 1101 S Salisbury Blvd for an attempted robbery. It was learned that the suspect had fled just prior to the officers arrival. Information obtained was that the suspect, who matched the previous description, had entered into the business and demanded money from an employee. The suspect made a motion to his coat pocket that he was carrying a weapon, but one was never shown. The employee told the suspect that he needed to leave at which time the suspect fled from the restaurant in an unknown direction.
At 8:13pm, officers responded to the Kentucky Fried Chicken for a third attempted robbery. As officers arrived on scene, they were directed to the rail road tracks where the suspect was last seen fleeing southbound. Officers observed the subject running and a foot pursuit was engaged. The officers were able to apprehend the suspect at the rear of Horner Honda. The suspect was found to be in possession of a knife. It was learned that the suspect, later identified as Wolcott had entered into Kentucky Fried Chicken and demanded money from an employee. The employee handed Wolcott a cup and told him to get a soda. The employee then told Wolcott that she would be with him after she had finished waiting on another customer. Wolcott took the cup and fled the establishment.
Wolcott was identified as the suspect that attempted to rob the above listed businesses. No injuries were reported and no property was taken. Wolcott was released to the custody of central booking.
On February 13, 2012 at approximately 8:02pm, officers responded to the Shell Gas Station located in the 900 block of Snow Hill Rd for an attempted robbery. On arrival, the suspect had fled the scene. Officers learned that the suspect entered into the store and ordered the employee to give him money from the register. The employee then told the suspect that he was going to call 911 and in doing so the suspect fled from the store. A description of the suspect was broadcast.
Approximately 4 minutes later (8:06pm), officers responded to the Wendy’s Restaurant located at 1101 S Salisbury Blvd for an attempted robbery. It was learned that the suspect had fled just prior to the officers arrival. Information obtained was that the suspect, who matched the previous description, had entered into the business and demanded money from an employee. The suspect made a motion to his coat pocket that he was carrying a weapon, but one was never shown. The employee told the suspect that he needed to leave at which time the suspect fled from the restaurant in an unknown direction.
At 8:13pm, officers responded to the Kentucky Fried Chicken for a third attempted robbery. As officers arrived on scene, they were directed to the rail road tracks where the suspect was last seen fleeing southbound. Officers observed the subject running and a foot pursuit was engaged. The officers were able to apprehend the suspect at the rear of Horner Honda. The suspect was found to be in possession of a knife. It was learned that the suspect, later identified as Wolcott had entered into Kentucky Fried Chicken and demanded money from an employee. The employee handed Wolcott a cup and told him to get a soda. The employee then told Wolcott that she would be with him after she had finished waiting on another customer. Wolcott took the cup and fled the establishment.
Wolcott was identified as the suspect that attempted to rob the above listed businesses. No injuries were reported and no property was taken. Wolcott was released to the custody of central booking.
Government Wants Oversight For Subways
Lawmakers are set to vote on measures to give the federal government oversight for subways. There are no federal safety standards governing subways and light-rail systems right now. The Washington Post reports that a 45-year-old law lets rail agencies set their own rules. There are few — if any — state regulations. The legislation may pass this time, the Post says. The measures are connected to reauthorization bills for federal highways and transit spending.
Obama Budget Would End D.C. School Vouchers
WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama's budget proposal includes no new funding for a private school voucher program for District of Columbia students.
The nation's capital is the only jurisdiction where federal tax dollars are used to subsidize private-school tuition. Needy students can receive up to $12,000 a year to attend private schools of their choice.
At the Obama administration's urging, Congress agreed in 2009 to phase out the program. But it was revived last year as part of a budget deal with House Republicans.
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The nation's capital is the only jurisdiction where federal tax dollars are used to subsidize private-school tuition. Needy students can receive up to $12,000 a year to attend private schools of their choice.
At the Obama administration's urging, Congress agreed in 2009 to phase out the program. But it was revived last year as part of a budget deal with House Republicans.
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China's Top Dog Visits U.S. Today And Shee Ain't Pretty
There's a new face visiting Washington today. It's Xi Jin Ping, the vice president of China. Shee is set to become the top dog in 2013. He's making the rounds of the White House and Pentagon before visiting an Iowa farm he visited as a mid-level party bureaucrat 25 years ago. The visit comes a day after the White House 2013 budget proposal called for reorganizing federal trade agencies into. A goal of that plan is countering what the U.S. sees as unfair Chinese trade practices and theft of intellectual property.
Obama's Budget A Hit Job On Federal Workers
Federal unions say President Barack Obama's budget proposal is a "hit" on federal workers. The president has renewed a call for feds to pay 1.2 percent more of their salaries to retirement. The American Federation of Government Employees says that's a "sop to the right wing" who want to see greater cuts to federal benefits. The National Treasury Employees Union says the measure fails to recognize the sacrifice feds are making with a two-year pay freeze. But President Colleen Kelley says she's glad Obama didn't call for extending that freeze.
Will Obama's Budget Help The USPS
President Barack Obama's budget proposal contains measures that the struggling Postal Service says will help it regain control over its finances. Obama supports returning money that the agency has prepaid for future retirees' health benefits. He also renewed a call for ending Saturday mail delivery. Under the plan, the Postal Service would be able to work more closely with state and local governments and have more say over postage pricing. Postmaster General Pat Donohoe says in a statement that they are "helpful recommendations."
Maryland Same-Sex Couple On Quest To Marry In Every State
COLLEGE PARK, Md. - When Jessica Leshnoff and Holly Beatty married in Vermont last March, it was the second time they tied the knot -- in one day.
The Baltimore City couple commemorated their three-year marriage anniversary with a wedding blitz, complete with ceremonies in New York and Vermont. The trip came after two weddings in Washington, D.C., once in 2008 -- before it was legalized in the city -- and an official ceremony in 2010.
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The Baltimore City couple commemorated their three-year marriage anniversary with a wedding blitz, complete with ceremonies in New York and Vermont. The trip came after two weddings in Washington, D.C., once in 2008 -- before it was legalized in the city -- and an official ceremony in 2010.
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Even Paul Krugman Recognizes Ron Paul Got Screwed In The Maine Caucuses
Krugman writes (without mentioning Ron Paul's name)
Oh, wow. It turns out that caucuses in some parts of Maine were postponed — and then told that their votes wouldn’t count. And yes, it does seem that the disenfranchised caucuses were the least pro-Romney.
So maybe Romney didn’t actually win Maine, after all.
Oh, wow. It turns out that caucuses in some parts of Maine were postponed — and then told that their votes wouldn’t count. And yes, it does seem that the disenfranchised caucuses were the least pro-Romney.
So maybe Romney didn’t actually win Maine, after all.
MARYLAND DEMOCRATIC PARTY AND OBAMA FOR AMERICA LAUNCH MARYLAND TRUTH TEAM
New grassroots network will defend the President’s record and respond to GOP attacks
ANNAPOLIS – The Maryland Democratic Party and Obama for America today announced the launch of the Maryland Truth Team. The Truth Team is a new grassroots effort to defend President Obama’s record of keeping his promises and rapidly respond to Republican lies, distortions and attacks.
“When Republicans attack, we will respond,” said Maryland Democratic Party Chair Yvette Lewis. “Mitt Romney and the other GOP presidential candidates will say and do anything to get elected. Their purposeful and deceptive efforts to mislead Americans about the President’s accomplishments will no longer go unanswered. Maryland Democrats are ready to start fighting back and holding Republicans accountable.”
“From creating 3.7 million jobs over 23 consecutive months of job growth, implementing tough Wall Street reform, rescuing the auto industry, passing historic healthcare reform or ending the war in Iraq – President Obama has proved to be a strong leader who has kept his promises to the American people. The President’s supporters must take ownership of this record and protect it from baseless attacks and distortions,” said Maryland Truth Team member Judy Moylan-Forman.
“The President has relied on grassroots volunteers to talk about the progress we have made and what we keep fighting for,” said Dennie Martin, a member of the Maryland Truth Team. “In Maryland we refuse to sit idly by and let Republican lies go unchecked. The Maryland Truth Team will engage the President’s supporters, share messaging about the President’s accomplishments and pushback against untrue GOP talking points on the air, in print and online.”
The Maryland Truth Team will build on the success of the Maryland Democratic Party’s Rapid Response Network, and will be led by Chair Yvette Lewis and a diverse array of elected officials, labor leaders and grassroots activists.
YOU LIE!!!!!
The budget Obama just submitted for FY13 is a bad joke. He will have no problem spending the $3.8 trillion in his budget. That’s a given. His budget for revenue is a pie in the sky lie. He knows it. I know it. You know it. He declares that he will collect $1.36 trillion of individual income taxes and $348 billion of corporate taxes. Does this pass the smell test?
This current fiscal year will provide $1.16 trillion of individual income taxes and possibly $237 billion of corporate taxes. Last year provided $1.09 trillion and $181 billion respectively.
There is not a chance in hell that he will get $300 billion more in tax revenue from individuals and corporations next year. Corporate profits have begun to drop. Wages are stagnant. Employment is not accelerating. The economy is going into recession. His $901 billion budget deficit projection is a bald faced lie. It will be north of $1.2 trillion. You can book it.
If you want to delve into the Federal Budget, here is a link to a cool website:
http://www.usgovernmentrevenue.com/classic
Source
This current fiscal year will provide $1.16 trillion of individual income taxes and possibly $237 billion of corporate taxes. Last year provided $1.09 trillion and $181 billion respectively.
There is not a chance in hell that he will get $300 billion more in tax revenue from individuals and corporations next year. Corporate profits have begun to drop. Wages are stagnant. Employment is not accelerating. The economy is going into recession. His $901 billion budget deficit projection is a bald faced lie. It will be north of $1.2 trillion. You can book it.
If you want to delve into the Federal Budget, here is a link to a cool website:
http://www.usgovernmentrevenue.com/classic
Source
The 'Wall Of Separation' In Its Proper Context
"Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between man and his God, that he owes account to none other for his faith or his worship, that the legislative powers of government reach actions only, and not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should 'make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,' thus building a wall of separation between church and State." --Thomas Jefferson, letter to a Committee of the Danbury Baptist Association, 1802
(Source)
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Is The End Coming For Football?
The NFL is done for the year, but it is not pure fantasy to suggest that it may be done for good in the not-too-distant future. How might such a doomsday scenario play out and what would be the economic and social consequences?
By now we're all familiar with the growing phenomenon of head injuries and cognitive problems among football players, even at the high school level. In 2009, Malcolm Gladwell asked whether football might someday come to an end, a concern seconded recently by Jonah Lehrer.
Before you say that football is far too big to ever disappear, consider the history: If you look at the stocks in the Fortune 500 from 1983, for example, 40 percent of those companies no longer exist. The original version of Napster no longer exists, largely because of lawsuits. No matter how well a business matches economic conditions at one point in time, it's not a lock to be a leader in the future, and that is true for the NFL too. Sports are not immune to these pressures. In the first half of the 20th century, the three big sports were baseball, boxing, and horse racing, and today only one of those is still a marquee attraction.
The most plausible route to the death of football starts with liability suits.1 Precollegiate football is already sustaining 90,000 or more concussions each year. If ex-players start winning judgments, insurance companies might cease to insure colleges and high schools against football-related lawsuits. Coaches, team physicians, and referees would become increasingly nervous about their financial exposure in our litigious society. If you are coaching a high school football team, or refereeing a game as a volunteer, it is sobering to think that you could be hit with a $2 million lawsuit at any point in time. A lot of people will see it as easier to just stay away. More and more modern parents will keep their kids out of playing football, and there tends to be a "contagion effect" with such decisions; once some parents have second thoughts, many others follow suit. We have seen such domino effects with the risks of smoking or driving without seatbelts, two unsafe practices that were common in the 1960s but are much rarer today. The end result is that the NFL's feeder system would dry up and advertisers and networks would shy away from associating with the league, owing to adverse publicity and some chance of being named as co-defendants in future lawsuits.
More
By now we're all familiar with the growing phenomenon of head injuries and cognitive problems among football players, even at the high school level. In 2009, Malcolm Gladwell asked whether football might someday come to an end, a concern seconded recently by Jonah Lehrer.
Before you say that football is far too big to ever disappear, consider the history: If you look at the stocks in the Fortune 500 from 1983, for example, 40 percent of those companies no longer exist. The original version of Napster no longer exists, largely because of lawsuits. No matter how well a business matches economic conditions at one point in time, it's not a lock to be a leader in the future, and that is true for the NFL too. Sports are not immune to these pressures. In the first half of the 20th century, the three big sports were baseball, boxing, and horse racing, and today only one of those is still a marquee attraction.
The most plausible route to the death of football starts with liability suits.1 Precollegiate football is already sustaining 90,000 or more concussions each year. If ex-players start winning judgments, insurance companies might cease to insure colleges and high schools against football-related lawsuits. Coaches, team physicians, and referees would become increasingly nervous about their financial exposure in our litigious society. If you are coaching a high school football team, or refereeing a game as a volunteer, it is sobering to think that you could be hit with a $2 million lawsuit at any point in time. A lot of people will see it as easier to just stay away. More and more modern parents will keep their kids out of playing football, and there tends to be a "contagion effect" with such decisions; once some parents have second thoughts, many others follow suit. We have seen such domino effects with the risks of smoking or driving without seatbelts, two unsafe practices that were common in the 1960s but are much rarer today. The end result is that the NFL's feeder system would dry up and advertisers and networks would shy away from associating with the league, owing to adverse publicity and some chance of being named as co-defendants in future lawsuits.
More
Navy Puts More Bang Into Unmanned Fleet
WASHINGTON: It looks like aerial drones are not the only unmanned systems the Pentagon is interested in arming.
The special warfare branch of the Navy's expeditionary warfare division is eying plans to arm its small fleet of unmanned boats with an long-range missile, branch chief Capt. Evin Thompson said. The missile -- known as the Spike -- is built by Israeli defense firm Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Thompson said during this week's Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International-sponsored symposium in Washington. Navy officials initially tested the weapon's performance aboard an unmanned surface vessel during the service's latest Trident Warrior exercise. During those drills, the weapon was mounted aboard a USV originally designed as part of the anti-submarine warfare package for the Littoral Combat Ship, Thompson said. Based on those results, Navy officials decided to move ahead with additional experimentation.
The upcoming experiments will be "proof of concept" drills that will show whether or not the Spike missile can be mounted and fired from an 11-meter unmanned vessel, Navy spokeswoman Lt. Courtney Hilson said today. The drills have been tentatively set for Patuxent River Naval Air Station, but that location has not been finalized, according to Hilson. She did not go into detail on the specific capabilities the Navy is looking to get from the armed USV. But Hilson did note that any "precision engagement system" fielded by naval forces can be used for "a variety of missions ranging from force protection to offensive operations."
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CHINA LEARNS A FEW TRICKS FROM BEN & TIMMY
China Instructs Banks to Roll Over $1.7 Trillion in Debt to Avoid Mass Default
A few years ago local Chinese municipalities had little debt. Today they have a $1.7 trillion mountain of it, nearly all of it financing economically non-viable projects in the name of “stimulus”.
The proposed “solution” of course is to roll the debt over, while adding still more to the debt mountain, hoping things will get better.
Please consider China tells banks to roll over loans
China’s stimulus response to the global financial crisis saddled its provinces and cities with Rmb10.7tn ($1.7tn) in debts – about a quarter of the country’s GDP – and more than half those loans are scheduled to come due over the next three years.
Since the principal on many of the loans is not repayable, banks have started extending maturities for local governments to avoid a wave of defaults, bankers and analysts familiar with the matter told the Financial Times. One person briefed on the plan said in some cases the maturities would be extended by as much as four years.
Extending Maturities to Avoid Default
A few more details emerge in China extends loans to avoid mass default
More
A few years ago local Chinese municipalities had little debt. Today they have a $1.7 trillion mountain of it, nearly all of it financing economically non-viable projects in the name of “stimulus”.
The proposed “solution” of course is to roll the debt over, while adding still more to the debt mountain, hoping things will get better.
Please consider China tells banks to roll over loans
China’s stimulus response to the global financial crisis saddled its provinces and cities with Rmb10.7tn ($1.7tn) in debts – about a quarter of the country’s GDP – and more than half those loans are scheduled to come due over the next three years.
Since the principal on many of the loans is not repayable, banks have started extending maturities for local governments to avoid a wave of defaults, bankers and analysts familiar with the matter told the Financial Times. One person briefed on the plan said in some cases the maturities would be extended by as much as four years.
Extending Maturities to Avoid Default
A few more details emerge in China extends loans to avoid mass default
More
Fredericksen: Are We Going To See A Repeat Performance Of Minnesota
Joe,
At this point the blame no longer belongs with Fredericksen. It belongs with the board or more specifically with board members Elmore, Dodd, Bly and Chase. It really doesn’t matter who said what about whom or who did what to whom. The board was oblivious to Fredericksen for his first four years and so they got what they deserved and we suffered. Now, it is different. Four years of incompetence and weirdness have led to the time for contract expiration and those four board members have a very clear picture of what is going on at this point. They should be the ones held accountable now and going forward for the decisions that are made.
What factors would a board consider when making a decision to hire or renew a superintendent? Certainly, anyone, even these board members, could agree on simple ones like past experience, instructional success, leadership, and political and community engagement. Fredericksen’s past experience is that his own district in Minnesota twice rejected him to be their superintendent. First in 2005 he was rejected as an internal candidate (attached) having served there since 2001including a period as acting superintendent (attached). Apparently, that board only needed 4 years to understand he was unacceptable. In less than two years the position was open again and once more the board rejected Fredericksen in favor of the other existing assistant superintendent without giving him any consideration (http://www.pressnews.com/articles/2006/05/24/osseo-maple_grove_press/news/dist279suptfinalist.txt).
That board evidently was a little more perceptive than ours. Maybe they spent time with him and noticed his offensive strangeness or maybe they had less tolerance for ill-conceived ideas. He also had floated the four-day school week there too and that board dropped it when “it hit the fan big time” (http://www.startribune.com/templates/Print_This_Story?sid=19184514).
Evidently, he sticks with bad ideas and travels with them to Maryland. We are told on our website that he came here to be close to family. However, before deciding to be close to family, one month before our board hired him he was rejected as superintendent in River Falls, Wisconsin (http://www.thisweek-online.com/2008/february/6westerhausupdate2.6.8.html). Maybe he has family there too or maybe there is more to it. Maybe Wisconsin does background checks and knew that there, like here now, he had become involved in suppressing the disclosure of public information and lying on court affidavits. In the dispute in Minnesota with a parent-employee group he lied in an affidavit about when the board would vote on the 2008-9 budget (he said June 17, 2008/ http://fiins.district279united.com/fiins/investigation/documents/Court%20Order%206%205%208.pdf). It turned out that the board actually approved the budget on June 3, 2008 just as the parent-employee group there had argued in court (http://district279.org/who/SchoolBoard/BoardMinutes/documents/2008_Minutes/060308_Minutes.pdf). Maybe as assistant superintendent of administration he truly didn’t know when the board was approving the budget or maybe he didn’t mind lying for his boss since he was already on his way here. She thanked him for his service at the next board meeting and wished him well (http://district279.org/who/SchoolBoard/BoardMinutes/documents/2008_Minutes/0617_Regular.pdf). Maybe she meant to wish us well too.
Either way, we got him. If past experience and reference checking is not important to our board, maybe student learning might be. In Fredericksen’s four years with us WCPS has been identified as a failing school system on state assessments; a fact that had to be pointed out to him and the board by the State Superintendent. Worse yet, we are headed in the wrong direction with no instructional plan and no hope. The only thing that exceeds Fredericksen’s lack of knowledge in curriculum and instruction is his lack of interest. He has managed to attend only one Race to the Top meeting ever and as he left early commented to the committee how much he had learned and how he might need “to break away more often to attend these instructional meetings.” Break away from what?
So maybe the Board is focused on budgeting and capital resources. The capital budget fiasco has been documented enough already. In terms of the general budget, the Department of Legislative Services reports that our county is -27.8% down in funding over the past three years (page 6 of attached DLS report). The next lowest county board of education is -9.4% and most are much better. Maybe this is due to Fredericksen’s stellar abilities to engage our elected officials. He does even worse with the public in general and employees particularly. Anyone who spends more than a passing moment with him dislikes him. Most people immediately get to “he’s weird” and many end up at “he’s a liar.” There seems to be some concrete evidence for that in Minnesota and plenty of circumstantial evidence here. In terms of promoting improvement, he has established a climate of complete fear and distrust among employees which the board has completely ignored. No attempts to survey staff, no attempts to interview the two retired superintendents (Field and Greenwood) he’s had working there for a year, no evidence that they care what the employees think or feel.
A better question than what has he done might be how does this board measure success in a superintendent? If not ethics and legal compliance or student learning or aligning resources or climate among employees and community, then what? What is the standard they have in mind for a superintendent? Shouldn’t the question not be IF they will renew him but WHY would they even consider it at all? On what basis? If there is even some truth to the allegations about Wright, Fitzgerald, and Willey, then we know why they would vote for him. If he goes down, then it’s a matter of time before they do too. But Elmore, Dodd, Bly, and Chase can and should be accountable. Going forward everything should be about them and not about Fredericksen. They are now responsible.
PS - By the way, despite the Fredericksen’s press release on the fire in the technology office being simply small, minor, and already investigated, doesn’t it appear from the facilities parking lot that it is still taped off? Has that investigation actually concluded? That whole thing is as strange as Fredericksen.
At this point the blame no longer belongs with Fredericksen. It belongs with the board or more specifically with board members Elmore, Dodd, Bly and Chase. It really doesn’t matter who said what about whom or who did what to whom. The board was oblivious to Fredericksen for his first four years and so they got what they deserved and we suffered. Now, it is different. Four years of incompetence and weirdness have led to the time for contract expiration and those four board members have a very clear picture of what is going on at this point. They should be the ones held accountable now and going forward for the decisions that are made.
What factors would a board consider when making a decision to hire or renew a superintendent? Certainly, anyone, even these board members, could agree on simple ones like past experience, instructional success, leadership, and political and community engagement. Fredericksen’s past experience is that his own district in Minnesota twice rejected him to be their superintendent. First in 2005 he was rejected as an internal candidate (attached) having served there since 2001including a period as acting superintendent (attached). Apparently, that board only needed 4 years to understand he was unacceptable. In less than two years the position was open again and once more the board rejected Fredericksen in favor of the other existing assistant superintendent without giving him any consideration (http://www.pressnews.com/articles/2006/05/24/osseo-maple_grove_press/news/dist279suptfinalist.txt).
That board evidently was a little more perceptive than ours. Maybe they spent time with him and noticed his offensive strangeness or maybe they had less tolerance for ill-conceived ideas. He also had floated the four-day school week there too and that board dropped it when “it hit the fan big time” (http://www.startribune.com/templates/Print_This_Story?sid=19184514).
Evidently, he sticks with bad ideas and travels with them to Maryland. We are told on our website that he came here to be close to family. However, before deciding to be close to family, one month before our board hired him he was rejected as superintendent in River Falls, Wisconsin (http://www.thisweek-online.com/2008/february/6westerhausupdate2.6.8.html). Maybe he has family there too or maybe there is more to it. Maybe Wisconsin does background checks and knew that there, like here now, he had become involved in suppressing the disclosure of public information and lying on court affidavits. In the dispute in Minnesota with a parent-employee group he lied in an affidavit about when the board would vote on the 2008-9 budget (he said June 17, 2008/ http://fiins.district279united.com/fiins/investigation/documents/Court%20Order%206%205%208.pdf). It turned out that the board actually approved the budget on June 3, 2008 just as the parent-employee group there had argued in court (http://district279.org/who/SchoolBoard/BoardMinutes/documents/2008_Minutes/060308_Minutes.pdf). Maybe as assistant superintendent of administration he truly didn’t know when the board was approving the budget or maybe he didn’t mind lying for his boss since he was already on his way here. She thanked him for his service at the next board meeting and wished him well (http://district279.org/who/SchoolBoard/BoardMinutes/documents/2008_Minutes/0617_Regular.pdf). Maybe she meant to wish us well too.
Either way, we got him. If past experience and reference checking is not important to our board, maybe student learning might be. In Fredericksen’s four years with us WCPS has been identified as a failing school system on state assessments; a fact that had to be pointed out to him and the board by the State Superintendent. Worse yet, we are headed in the wrong direction with no instructional plan and no hope. The only thing that exceeds Fredericksen’s lack of knowledge in curriculum and instruction is his lack of interest. He has managed to attend only one Race to the Top meeting ever and as he left early commented to the committee how much he had learned and how he might need “to break away more often to attend these instructional meetings.” Break away from what?
So maybe the Board is focused on budgeting and capital resources. The capital budget fiasco has been documented enough already. In terms of the general budget, the Department of Legislative Services reports that our county is -27.8% down in funding over the past three years (page 6 of attached DLS report). The next lowest county board of education is -9.4% and most are much better. Maybe this is due to Fredericksen’s stellar abilities to engage our elected officials. He does even worse with the public in general and employees particularly. Anyone who spends more than a passing moment with him dislikes him. Most people immediately get to “he’s weird” and many end up at “he’s a liar.” There seems to be some concrete evidence for that in Minnesota and plenty of circumstantial evidence here. In terms of promoting improvement, he has established a climate of complete fear and distrust among employees which the board has completely ignored. No attempts to survey staff, no attempts to interview the two retired superintendents (Field and Greenwood) he’s had working there for a year, no evidence that they care what the employees think or feel.
A better question than what has he done might be how does this board measure success in a superintendent? If not ethics and legal compliance or student learning or aligning resources or climate among employees and community, then what? What is the standard they have in mind for a superintendent? Shouldn’t the question not be IF they will renew him but WHY would they even consider it at all? On what basis? If there is even some truth to the allegations about Wright, Fitzgerald, and Willey, then we know why they would vote for him. If he goes down, then it’s a matter of time before they do too. But Elmore, Dodd, Bly, and Chase can and should be accountable. Going forward everything should be about them and not about Fredericksen. They are now responsible.
PS - By the way, despite the Fredericksen’s press release on the fire in the technology office being simply small, minor, and already investigated, doesn’t it appear from the facilities parking lot that it is still taped off? Has that investigation actually concluded? That whole thing is as strange as Fredericksen.
New Posts to fall below.
Why Are Government Bureaucrats Turning America Into Nazi Germany?
I’m sorry to put it in such a crass way, but that is exactly what they are doing. Ever since the September 11th attacks, these power-grabbing scoundrels have been putting policies in place that were planned well before 9/11, searching us, tracking, frisking, scanning, taxing and regulating and spying on us.
The War on Terror and the War on Drugs have a combined effect of really being the government’s war on us, the American people, and a war on freedom. The airport TSA is now spreading over to train stations and bus depots, football stadiums and other public places.
While these non-productive bureaucrats are suggesting that their intrusive, Nazi-like policies are to prevent terrorism, they themselves have been terrorizing the American people, and treating us all like criminal suspects, like prisoners.
More
The War on Terror and the War on Drugs have a combined effect of really being the government’s war on us, the American people, and a war on freedom. The airport TSA is now spreading over to train stations and bus depots, football stadiums and other public places.
While these non-productive bureaucrats are suggesting that their intrusive, Nazi-like policies are to prevent terrorism, they themselves have been terrorizing the American people, and treating us all like criminal suspects, like prisoners.
More
EXIT Shore Realty and The Roop Group are teaming up with our Lower Shore Parkinson’s Support Group in efforts to raise money for Parkinson’s Disease (PD) Research & Support by hosting a “Casino Night Party and Dance”. It’s our goal to organize a 2012 fundraising event for Parkinson’s awareness, and to raise over $10,000 for the local Parkinson’s Awareness Chapter.Our Broker and dear friend Harry Roop, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease three years ago and his father passed away from this disease 6 years ago. Harry has helped countless amounts of people in his lifetime and his warm heart has blessed hundreds of others. Harry is a man of always giving to others before giving to himself, and this is our way to finally give back to him. Helping this group is really near and dear to our hearts! There are over 8,000 people on the Eastern Shore alone that are affected with this disease and we are asking EVERYONE for help!! Anyone that donates a silent auction item, becomes a sponsor, or makes a cash donation, will be placed on advertisements , flyers & our website. All donations are tax deductible too.
The proceeds from this event will be put to good use. The local Chapter is attempting to establish a weekly dance exercise class, known nationally as “Dance for PD”, which members may attend without cost. This class will require a funding source to pay for the use of facilities and a specially trained instructor. Additionally, we are part of a regional effort to serve individuals with PD, as well as maintain an educational resource for the general population. Part of the effort of the Delmarva Parkinson’s Alliance will be to build a website with a database of local PD support groups throughout the Delmarva Peninsula, a calendar of their activities, and educational information including links to national organizations. But most of all a portion of the proceeds will be donated to select national Parkinson's organizations that make grants in support of research seeking a cure for this disease.
We are asking all business owners, organizations and individuals to help us in our efforts to make this event possible by either donating a silent auction item, becoming a Sponsor, and buying a ticket (or two) for this event. Tickets for the Casino Night Party and Dance are just $25 per person and can be purchased at the office of EXIT Shore Realty or can be requested on our website www.PartyForParkinsons.com. Just click the package information and mail in your request to 327-100 Tilghman Rd. Salisbury MD 21804. We have many sponsorship levels available to fit everyone's budget.
This exciting event will be held on Saturday April 28th 2012 at the Elks Lodge in Salisbury MD from 7 to 11pm. There will be Live Music & DJ Dancing Light Buffet Silent Auction 50/50 raffle No limit-Texas Holdem Poker Black Jack Money Wheel and MORE!! Don’t miss your chance to secure your name or business sponsorship. Call Micki today for more information at 410-912-0310 or visit us at www.partyforparkinsons.com
Investigators Looking For Wanted Sex Offender
Location: Smyrna, DE
Date of Occurrence: Monday February 13, 2012
Suspect:
James E. Fleetwood, 29, Smyrna, DE
White male, 5’09” tall, 160 lbs, brown hair, and blue eyes
Resume:
Smyrna, DE- The Delaware State Police Sex Offender Apprehension and registration Unit (S.O.A.R) is currently looking for a Smyrna sex offender after he failed to re-register his current address.
Investigators have obtained warrants on James E. Fleetwood, 29, who is a high risk Tier 3 sex offender, after they learned that he failed to register as homeless, and had not notified S.O.A.R. of his status within 7 days as he is required to do by law.
James Fleetwood is described as a white male, 5’09” tall and 160 lbs. he has brown hair and blue eyes.
The Delaware State Police Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit is asking anyone who may know the location of James Fleetwood to call Detective Donna Oliphant at 302-943-1560. Citizens may also provide a tip by texting keyword “DSP” plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES). Tipsters may also provide information through lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333.
Callers can also submit information via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com.
How Old Milwaukee Gamed The Super Bowl
The beer company hit social-media gold with its Will Ferrell ad, which it paid pennies to air in North Platte, Neb.
For most national brands, buying a TV ad during the Super Bowl is the antithesis of cheap, narrowly targeted advertising. Not so for Old Milwaukee.
On Sunday night, like many of its deeper-pocketed rival beer brands, Old Milwaukee rolled out a new TV commercial. The ad featured a celebrity endorsement of sorts from the comedian Will Ferrell. But rather than targeting the mass national audience that tuned in by the tens of millions to NBC stations and affiliates across the country, the Old Milwaukee spot aired in front of a much smaller subgroup—specifically, the thousands of people watching the Super Bowl in the country’s second-smallest TV market, North Platte, Neb.
The 30-second commercial, against a stirring soundtrack, features a single shot of Ferrell in a pair of shorts, striding through a wheat field toward the camera. He catches a can of Old Milwaukee that is tossed to him; just as he opens it, the commercial ends abruptly, mid-pitch.
Unconventional? Sure. But as a bit of marketing jujitsu, pure brilliance.
More
For most national brands, buying a TV ad during the Super Bowl is the antithesis of cheap, narrowly targeted advertising. Not so for Old Milwaukee.
On Sunday night, like many of its deeper-pocketed rival beer brands, Old Milwaukee rolled out a new TV commercial. The ad featured a celebrity endorsement of sorts from the comedian Will Ferrell. But rather than targeting the mass national audience that tuned in by the tens of millions to NBC stations and affiliates across the country, the Old Milwaukee spot aired in front of a much smaller subgroup—specifically, the thousands of people watching the Super Bowl in the country’s second-smallest TV market, North Platte, Neb.
The 30-second commercial, against a stirring soundtrack, features a single shot of Ferrell in a pair of shorts, striding through a wheat field toward the camera. He catches a can of Old Milwaukee that is tossed to him; just as he opens it, the commercial ends abruptly, mid-pitch.
Unconventional? Sure. But as a bit of marketing jujitsu, pure brilliance.
More
9,682 People Have Already Viewed Today's Fredericksen Post
I'm sharing this number to give people an idea of just how important the Board of Education issue is to our community.
I am told on a regular basis that many at the BOE do not follow Salisbury News. That's just not true. There have been far too many meetings concerning Salisbury News for the Board of Education to make that claim.
Mr. Fredericksen has banned Salisbury News from any Teacher or Staff from accessing, yet they just use their cell phones and find other ways to visit.
Nevertheless, in two hours I'd say that's quite a few people interested in what's going on. More to come...
Today's Survey Question 2-14-12
Who would you like to be your Valentine today?Tell him/her how you feel.
UNSUSTAINABLE
Karl Denninger http://market-ticker.org/ with a chart of doom and some harsh words for David Walker and every President since Ronald Reagan. An unsustainable trend will not be sustained. Obama presented his budget today. His forecast is for the deficit to be $1.33 trillion this year. He plans on spending $3.8 trillion next year, while touting $4 trillion of cuts over 10 years. That’s funny. $4 trillion comes to $400 billion per year. He is spending $3.8 trillion this year and $3.8 trillion next year. Where is the $400 billion of “cuts”? See, you need to think like a government drone. The cuts will all come between year 6 and 10. Plus, they won’t actually cut spending. In government speak, spending $4 trillion less than your predicted spending increase counts as a cut in spending. Get it?
David Walker was on CNBC this morning again claiming that we “lost our way” over the last ten years. He’s lying. What we have here is a geometric series in two dimensions (both slope and time) and I’m going to prove it.
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David Walker was on CNBC this morning again claiming that we “lost our way” over the last ten years. He’s lying. What we have here is a geometric series in two dimensions (both slope and time) and I’m going to prove it.
More
Green Energy Has Residents Seeing Red
A thick fog has settled in on Green Mountain in Keyser, W.Va.
"I can't live with this. You can't sleep."
All day, people keep pointing into the trees, telling us there's something in the fog.
"It's just rumbling the whole mountain."
And then, just like that, the wind blows and you can see what Don Ashby is talking about.
Ashby contacted the News 4 I-Team after the Pinnacle Wind Farm turned on its turbines for the first time in November.
“We were basically told you would hear a swishing sound like the waves of the ocean,” he said. “Like that which would calm you and put you to sleep."
But Ashby and his neighbors say the low-frequency rumble is much worse than they expected.
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"I can't live with this. You can't sleep."
All day, people keep pointing into the trees, telling us there's something in the fog.
"It's just rumbling the whole mountain."
And then, just like that, the wind blows and you can see what Don Ashby is talking about.
Ashby contacted the News 4 I-Team after the Pinnacle Wind Farm turned on its turbines for the first time in November.
“We were basically told you would hear a swishing sound like the waves of the ocean,” he said. “Like that which would calm you and put you to sleep."
But Ashby and his neighbors say the low-frequency rumble is much worse than they expected.
More
Young Authors Winners
Wicomico Winners in the 2011-12 Eastern Shore Reading Council Young Author’s Contest
Winners of the 2011-12 Eastern Shore Reading Council Young Author’s Contest have been announced. Wicomico winners represent nine schools and all grade levels from 2 through 12. The list of Wicomico winners is below.
Students from Wicomico County Public Schools who achieved a first-place finish, as well as any
of those first-place Wicomico winners who also placed in the top two at the state level, will be recognized at a Wicomico County Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night this spring, and will also be honored at the Eastern Shore Reading Council’s Young Authors Reception at Salisbury University in April.
Congratulations to all of these award-winning Young Authors!
More
Winners of the 2011-12 Eastern Shore Reading Council Young Author’s Contest have been announced. Wicomico winners represent nine schools and all grade levels from 2 through 12. The list of Wicomico winners is below.
Students from Wicomico County Public Schools who achieved a first-place finish, as well as any
of those first-place Wicomico winners who also placed in the top two at the state level, will be recognized at a Wicomico County Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night this spring, and will also be honored at the Eastern Shore Reading Council’s Young Authors Reception at Salisbury University in April.
Congratulations to all of these award-winning Young Authors!
More
Happy Valentine's Day & More
Today doesn't just represent Valentine's Day. Today also represents our 10th Wedding Anniversary.
As many of you are aware, Salisbury News is not just a part time Website. There are no days off, 16 to 18 hour days are normal and you'd have to be one hell of an understanding woman to put up with the things that have been brought on because of this commitment.
Jennifer allows me to do what I do because she knows we're all making a positive difference. She knows how much we give back, (Pay It Forward) to the community and God Willing if there ever comes a day when we're both able to retire for good it will certainly be the end of Salisbury News.
I'm a very lucky man who happens to be married to the most beautiful woman, (inside and out) in America. 10 years later she's still my best friend.
Now tell your Boss you need to come home and make me a samich!