Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker has survived a recall
election, defeating the Democratic mayor of Milwaukee to keep the state's top
political job.
Walker becomes the first governor in American history to stay in office
after a recall challenge.
The Republican governor rose to national prominence last year after
taking on public-sector unions shortly after being sworn in. That fight also
triggered the recall and set up a rematch with Tom Barrett, who was defeated by
Walker in 2010.
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DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Tuesday, June 05, 2012
University Restarts 'Poll Tax'?
The 24th Amendment? Isn’t that the one about poll taxes?
A new report from Campus Reform says it’s an issue at Texas A&M University, where voters who travel by car must pay a parking fee to vote at the polling place on campus.
The university, which had lobbied to host an early polling place, charges a minimum $2 fee at the parking facility used by voters.
Campus Reform said it contacted the university’s Transportation Services department to ask about parking provisions.
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A new report from Campus Reform says it’s an issue at Texas A&M University, where voters who travel by car must pay a parking fee to vote at the polling place on campus.
The university, which had lobbied to host an early polling place, charges a minimum $2 fee at the parking facility used by voters.
Campus Reform said it contacted the university’s Transportation Services department to ask about parking provisions.
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Polls Close in Wisconsin, Voter Turnout Reported Heavy, Race Too Close To Call
The polls have closed in Wisconsin's recall vote for GOP Gov. Scott Walker, with the votes still too close to call.
Fox News exit polls show the race is extremely tight, so it is too early to say whether Walker will become the first governor in U.S. history to survive a recall election.
Voter turnout was reportedly heavy, as expected, in the race between Walker and Democratic challenger Tom Barrett, the Milwaukee mayor he faced in 2010.
The recall effort started about 18 months after the first-term governor eliminated collectively bargain agreements for most state employees, in an effort to cut Wisconsin's multi-billion dollar budget shortfall.
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Fox News exit polls show the race is extremely tight, so it is too early to say whether Walker will become the first governor in U.S. history to survive a recall election.
Voter turnout was reportedly heavy, as expected, in the race between Walker and Democratic challenger Tom Barrett, the Milwaukee mayor he faced in 2010.
The recall effort started about 18 months after the first-term governor eliminated collectively bargain agreements for most state employees, in an effort to cut Wisconsin's multi-billion dollar budget shortfall.
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Ind. Taxpayers Lose High Court Fight Over Refunds
The Supreme Court has turned down homeowners in Indianapolis who
sought tax refunds when the city changed its plan for paying for a new
sewer line.
In a 6-3 ruling Monday, the court upheld the city’s decision to refuse to refund taxes that some homeowners paid up front while it forgave the remaining taxes for people who paid on an installment plan.
Those who paid in full complained that the disparate treatment violated the Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause.
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In a 6-3 ruling Monday, the court upheld the city’s decision to refuse to refund taxes that some homeowners paid up front while it forgave the remaining taxes for people who paid on an installment plan.
Those who paid in full complained that the disparate treatment violated the Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause.
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John Rocker: ‘I Would Vote For The Devil’ Over Obama
President Barack Obama won’t be receiving John Rocker’s vote, but the
president didn’t lose it to Mitt Romney. Instead, Rocker would rather
vote for the devil than the incumbent president.
Never one to mince words, the former Atlanta Braves closer laid into Obama, saying he’d rather support the devil over Obama, adding that America cannot sustain another four years of “his cancerous ideology.” Rocker, whose racially-charged 1999 Sports Illustrated interview remains his most memorable moment during his Major League Baseball career, told WND that Obama does not support the values and principles that have made America great.
“It seems that Governor Romney will be getting my vote, although be it somewhat by default,” Rocker told WND during an interview in support of his new book, “Rocker: Scars and Strikes.” “I would vote for the devil himself over Barack Obama, which would actually be tough though as he seems to already be a supporter.”
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Never one to mince words, the former Atlanta Braves closer laid into Obama, saying he’d rather support the devil over Obama, adding that America cannot sustain another four years of “his cancerous ideology.” Rocker, whose racially-charged 1999 Sports Illustrated interview remains his most memorable moment during his Major League Baseball career, told WND that Obama does not support the values and principles that have made America great.
“It seems that Governor Romney will be getting my vote, although be it somewhat by default,” Rocker told WND during an interview in support of his new book, “Rocker: Scars and Strikes.” “I would vote for the devil himself over Barack Obama, which would actually be tough though as he seems to already be a supporter.”
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Man Allegedly Beaten After Removing Democrat Political Signs Placed in His Yard Without Permission
Police in Taos, New Mexico have spent close to a month investigating
a case where a man was allegedly beaten after removing political signs
placed on his property without his permission.
Across the road, a candidate for District Court Judge Ernestina Cruz was holding an event, and supporters seemingly placed signs on the man’s lawn to direct attendees where to go.
“I told them I thought it was very distasteful to put these signs in front of my property,” Roy Cunnyngham said, so he packed them in the car to return to their rightful owners.
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Across the road, a candidate for District Court Judge Ernestina Cruz was holding an event, and supporters seemingly placed signs on the man’s lawn to direct attendees where to go.
“I told them I thought it was very distasteful to put these signs in front of my property,” Roy Cunnyngham said, so he packed them in the car to return to their rightful owners.
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Supreme Court: Can Police Detain Without Warrant?
The Supreme Court will decide whether police can follow and detain a
suspect while they wait for a search warrant, even after the suspect
leaves the area that the police want to search.
The high court on Monday agreed to hear an appeal from Chunon Bailey, who was sentenced to 30 years in prison on drug and weapons charges, to resolve a split between the federal circuit courts of appeal.
Bailey left a building with an apartment that police wanted to search for a gun before the warrant arrived. An unmarked police car followed Bailey for more than a mile, and police detained him and brought him back to the building. The warrant arrived, police found drugs and weapons and arrested Bailey, who had an apartment key in his pocket.
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The high court on Monday agreed to hear an appeal from Chunon Bailey, who was sentenced to 30 years in prison on drug and weapons charges, to resolve a split between the federal circuit courts of appeal.
Bailey left a building with an apartment that police wanted to search for a gun before the warrant arrived. An unmarked police car followed Bailey for more than a mile, and police detained him and brought him back to the building. The warrant arrived, police found drugs and weapons and arrested Bailey, who had an apartment key in his pocket.
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Bizarre: Mayor Bloomberg Defends Drink Ban While Calling for Decriminalizing Pot
Michael Bloomberg, mayor of New York City, has recently earned the ire
of many for his hairbrained attempt at curbing obesity by banning sugary
drinks. Today, he took to the Twitters to promote an op-ed he wrote for
USA Today, defending his policy:
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Inspiring Video: High School Runner Quits Race to Help Collapsed Opponent Across Finish Line
If you ever thought you couldn’t win by losing, here’s a story for
you. Even though Meghan Vogel came in last place in the recent Ohio
D-III 3,200-meter state finals, she came out as the winner.
With just 50 meters left in the race, Vogel — a junior who had earlier won the 1,600-meter race — noticed that one of her opponents, sophomore Arden McMath, collapsed in front of her. It was obvious McMath couldn’t finish, so Vogel did what the rules say she can’t: she helped McMath to the finish line despite facing a disqualification.
And as the two limped along, the crowd roared. Luckily for the rest of the world, the act of sportsmanship was caught on video:
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With just 50 meters left in the race, Vogel — a junior who had earlier won the 1,600-meter race — noticed that one of her opponents, sophomore Arden McMath, collapsed in front of her. It was obvious McMath couldn’t finish, so Vogel did what the rules say she can’t: she helped McMath to the finish line despite facing a disqualification.
And as the two limped along, the crowd roared. Luckily for the rest of the world, the act of sportsmanship was caught on video:
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Commitment to Personal Responsibility: Beck Asks Americans to Take This Pledge as First Step in New Initiative
Every movement starts with a commitment based on political, religious or cultural catalysts. Sometimes, those commitments might even be based on a combination of the three. On Monday evening, Glenn Beck unveiled the first stage of his highly-anticipated four-part action plan dedicated to reclaiming the country by doing, rather than talking.
During the program, Beck explained that during his last broadcast on the Fox News network, he actually already envisioned what GBTV would be like, telling viewers that his new network would become a verb.Essentially, Beck’s vision for GBTV surpasses that of a simple news network where people are informed, or even entertained. Rather, he seeks to build an actionable movement where viewers are enabled to become part of an active and ongoing process, not merely remain spectators of a particular broadcast. This is because Beck believes that is in fact the viewer who holds the power.
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Mayor Jim Ireton Does Shoots Blanks On Budget
They say if you pull out your gun you better fire it. Well, Ireton pulled out his guns through the Daily Times and shot nothing but blanks, are you surprised? We said he wouldn't veto it and we were right.The fact that he delivered a budget that wasn't balanced to start with was amateur enough. The fact that the New City Attorney spelled out the fact that if he were to veto the Budget there would be NO BUDGET, period. The Mayor would then have to go to eh Council for every penny needed throughout the entire year.
Mayor Ireton thought he could throw his weight around like Barrie Tilghman used to but instead learned he has no power, as it should be. The Mayor is a figure head. The Mayor handles the administrative part of the City and not the legislative part.
The real decisions that drive and protect us taxpayers is done through the legislative Council body of government. The Budget the Council delivered was not only good, it blew away the Mayors Cinderella Budget favoring staff members in the Mayors Office only. My hat is tipped to the entire City Council with the exception this time of Laura Mitchell.
More importantly I want to take the time to educate our readers as to just how time consuming this process actually is. You see, the Council Members get paid something like $10,000.00 a year. During the budget process alone the time they consume for this probably takes up 90% of that salary. What the Mayor and Council are paid is a joke. And for those nay sayers wanting to come back here saying I simply want more money if I'm elected, forget it, the current Mayor cannot get their own pay raise, nor can the Council.
The vindictive moves by former Council Members like Mike Dunn, Gary Comegys and especially the former Mayor Barrie Tilghman removing medical insurance was a load of you know what. I'll be right up front about this right here and now. If elected I will do my very best to change that for others in the future. I will also do my very best to WORK with the Council President throughout the entire Budget process in order to make the final budget one in which we will all agree and there will be no more cat fights. Oh, believe me, I'll figure out ways to do so without raising taxes like Ireton tried so hard to do this year.
For far too many years proposals have come forth simply out of spite and budgets were passed just to harm certain people. Those day are over Ladies & Gentlemen. You want to see a Council move forward enjoying their work, you'll vote for me. If you want things to remain the same as they have for the past 14 years or so, you know what to do. No sweat off my back. The Mayors position only pays $25,000.00 a year anyway.
Nice going once again Daily Times. You sided with the Mayor and tried to BLUFF the Council, you failed. Your influence has dropped just like the Mayors has. Perhaps now you should go back to doing what your paid to do, tell the news and stop trying to control local government with your own set of directions.
Based on the information I have, the City Clerk has not received a budget ordinance back. Mayor Ireton failed to return the budget within 6 days, therefore the Councils Budget becomes law without the Mayors approval.
New Posts to fall below.
Dobson to Prez: I Won't Bow to 'Wicked' Obamacare
Dr. James Dobson is taking a defiant stand on Obamacare and issuing a
loud and clear message to President Obama: “I WILL NOT pay the surcharge
for abortion services. … So come and get me if you must, Mr. President.
I will not bow before your wicked regulation.”
The evangelical Christian author and founder of Focus on the Family minced no words when he accused Obama of deceiving the American public in his exclusive WND column, “The president’s Obamacare lies.”
Dobson notes that the president issued the following statement on the night of Sept. 9, 2009, when he gave an address to a joint session of Congress in an effort push members of the House and Senate to pass his health-care bill:
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The evangelical Christian author and founder of Focus on the Family minced no words when he accused Obama of deceiving the American public in his exclusive WND column, “The president’s Obamacare lies.”
Dobson notes that the president issued the following statement on the night of Sept. 9, 2009, when he gave an address to a joint session of Congress in an effort push members of the House and Senate to pass his health-care bill:
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Holder's Chutzpah
Attorney General Eric Holder recently told a group of black clergymen that the right to vote was being threatened by people who are seeking to block access to the ballot box by blacks and other minorities.
This is truly world-class chutzpah, by an Attorney General who stopped attorneys in his own Department of Justice from completing the prosecution of black thugs who stationed themselves outside a Philadelphia voting site to harass and intimidate white voters.
This may have seemed like a small episode to some at the time, but it was only the proverbial tip of the iceberg. The U.S. Attorney who was prosecuting that case – J. Christian Adams – resigned from the Department of Justice in protest, and wrote a book about a whole array of similar race-based decisions on voting rights by Eric Holder and his subordinates at the Department of Justice.
The book is titled Injustice: Exposing the Racial Agenda of the Obama Justice Department. It names names, dates and places around the country where the Department of Justice stopped its own attorneys from pursuing cases of voter fraud and intimidation, when it was blacks who were accused of these crimes.
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This is truly world-class chutzpah, by an Attorney General who stopped attorneys in his own Department of Justice from completing the prosecution of black thugs who stationed themselves outside a Philadelphia voting site to harass and intimidate white voters.
This may have seemed like a small episode to some at the time, but it was only the proverbial tip of the iceberg. The U.S. Attorney who was prosecuting that case – J. Christian Adams – resigned from the Department of Justice in protest, and wrote a book about a whole array of similar race-based decisions on voting rights by Eric Holder and his subordinates at the Department of Justice.
The book is titled Injustice: Exposing the Racial Agenda of the Obama Justice Department. It names names, dates and places around the country where the Department of Justice stopped its own attorneys from pursuing cases of voter fraud and intimidation, when it was blacks who were accused of these crimes.
More
George Soros: Godfather of the Left
Say the name George Soros and liberals see dollar signs – literally. The world’s 22nd
richest man, according to Forbes, is now worth $20 billion. But Soros
isn’t just noteworthy for the money he has – he’s notable for the money
he has given away. Since launching his Open Society Foundations in 1984,
Soros has donated more than $8 billion to charities around the world.
But instead of gaining a mighty reputation for his philanthropy, or his investment prowess, Soros is reviled abroad and criticized here in his adopted country. Most everywhere Soros, his foundations or his investing have gone, trouble has followed. He’s helped foment revolutions, undermined national currencies and funded radicals around the world. Soros has been convicted of insider dealing in France and fined $3 million, fined another $2 million in his native Hungary. His “foundations have been accused of shielding spies and breaking currency laws” and his investing strategy has been targeted for harming several national currencies.
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But instead of gaining a mighty reputation for his philanthropy, or his investment prowess, Soros is reviled abroad and criticized here in his adopted country. Most everywhere Soros, his foundations or his investing have gone, trouble has followed. He’s helped foment revolutions, undermined national currencies and funded radicals around the world. Soros has been convicted of insider dealing in France and fined $3 million, fined another $2 million in his native Hungary. His “foundations have been accused of shielding spies and breaking currency laws” and his investing strategy has been targeted for harming several national currencies.
More
U.S. Reverses Stance On Treaty To Regulate Arms Trade
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States reversed policy on Wednesday and said it would back launching talks on a treaty to regulate arms sales as long as the talks operated by consensus, a stance critics said gave every nation a veto.
The decision, announced in a statement released by the U.S. State
Department, overturns the position of former President George W. Bush's administration, which had opposed such a treaty on the grounds that national controls were better.
On Wednesday Obama Took the First Major Step in a Plan to Ban All
Firearms in the United States. The Obama administration intends to
force gun control and a complete ban on all weapons for US citizens
through the signing of international treaties with foreign nations. By
signing international treaties on gun control, the Obama administration can use the US State Department to bypass the normal legislative process in Congress. Once the US Government signs these international treaties, all US citizens will be subject to those gun laws created by foreign governments. These are laws that have been developed and promoted by organizations such as the United Nationsand individuals such as George Soros and Michael Bloomberg. The laws are designed and intended to lead to the complete ban and confiscation of all firearms.
The Obama administration is attempting to use tactics and methods of
gun control that will inflict major damage to our 2nd Amendment before US citizens even understand what has happened. Obama can appear before the public and tell them that he does not intend to pursue any legislation (in the United States) that will lead to new gun control laws, while cloaked in secrecy, his Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton is committing the US to international treaties and foreign gun control laws. Does that mean Obama is telling the truth? What it means is that there will be no publicized gun control debates in the media or votes in Congress. We will wake up one morning and find that the United States has signed a treaty that prohibits firearm and ammunition manufacturers from selling to the public. We will wake up another morning and find that the US has signed a treaty that prohibits any transfer of firearm ownership. And then, we will wake up yet another morning and find that the US has signed a treaty that requires US citizens to deliver any firearm they own.
More
The decision, announced in a statement released by the U.S. State
Department, overturns the position of former President George W. Bush's administration, which had opposed such a treaty on the grounds that national controls were better.
On Wednesday Obama Took the First Major Step in a Plan to Ban All
Firearms in the United States. The Obama administration intends to
force gun control and a complete ban on all weapons for US citizens
through the signing of international treaties with foreign nations. By
signing international treaties on gun control, the Obama administration can use the US State Department to bypass the normal legislative process in Congress. Once the US Government signs these international treaties, all US citizens will be subject to those gun laws created by foreign governments. These are laws that have been developed and promoted by organizations such as the United Nationsand individuals such as George Soros and Michael Bloomberg. The laws are designed and intended to lead to the complete ban and confiscation of all firearms.
The Obama administration is attempting to use tactics and methods of
gun control that will inflict major damage to our 2nd Amendment before US citizens even understand what has happened. Obama can appear before the public and tell them that he does not intend to pursue any legislation (in the United States) that will lead to new gun control laws, while cloaked in secrecy, his Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton is committing the US to international treaties and foreign gun control laws. Does that mean Obama is telling the truth? What it means is that there will be no publicized gun control debates in the media or votes in Congress. We will wake up one morning and find that the United States has signed a treaty that prohibits firearm and ammunition manufacturers from selling to the public. We will wake up another morning and find that the US has signed a treaty that prohibits any transfer of firearm ownership. And then, we will wake up yet another morning and find that the US has signed a treaty that requires US citizens to deliver any firearm they own.
More
Sisters Want Brother Who Killed Their Kids Spared
Two women are asking Mississippi's governor to spare their brother
from execution, even though he killed four of their children, paralyzed
another and stabbed one of the sisters.
Henry "Curtis" Jackson Jr., 47, is scheduled to die Tuesday by injection. He killed the four children, ages 2 to 5, during a rampage that started when he went to his mother's home in Leflore County to take money from her safe on Nov. 1, 1990, court records say.
His mother was at church that day, but Jackson's adult sister, Regina Jackson, was at the home with her two daughters and four nieces and nephews. Regina Jackson was stabbed five times. Her two daughters and two nephews were stabbed to death. Another niece was so severely injured that she was paraplegic until her recent death.
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Henry "Curtis" Jackson Jr., 47, is scheduled to die Tuesday by injection. He killed the four children, ages 2 to 5, during a rampage that started when he went to his mother's home in Leflore County to take money from her safe on Nov. 1, 1990, court records say.
His mother was at church that day, but Jackson's adult sister, Regina Jackson, was at the home with her two daughters and four nieces and nephews. Regina Jackson was stabbed five times. Her two daughters and two nephews were stabbed to death. Another niece was so severely injured that she was paraplegic until her recent death.
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Debt Is Not Wealth
These figures are staggering; the advanced nations typically have between three and ten times as much total debt as they have economic activity. In the United Kingdom — the worst example — if one year’s economic activity was devoted entirely to paying down debt (impossible — people need to eat and drink and pay rent, and of course the United Kingdom continues to add debt [18]) it would take ten years for the debt to be wiped clean.
But the real question is why? Why are both debtors and creditors willing to build a status quo of massive unprecedented debt?
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Charlie Daniels Column: Obama Should Look to the States
The toll that government has taken on industry in this country is nothing less than insane.
The unwieldy and unnecessary regulations, the threats of exorbitant taxes and - most of all - the uncertainty of what else this out of control administration will impose, should it be reelected, has chased industry out of the nation and put on hold the hiring, construction, replacement orders and startups of new companies it takes to make this economy thrive.
The federal government could learn a valuable lesson from some of the more aggressive states who go out after and procure manufacturers who have seen their bottom line drastically reduced by operating in profligate, cash hungry states.
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The unwieldy and unnecessary regulations, the threats of exorbitant taxes and - most of all - the uncertainty of what else this out of control administration will impose, should it be reelected, has chased industry out of the nation and put on hold the hiring, construction, replacement orders and startups of new companies it takes to make this economy thrive.
The federal government could learn a valuable lesson from some of the more aggressive states who go out after and procure manufacturers who have seen their bottom line drastically reduced by operating in profligate, cash hungry states.
More
Obama's Latest Bailout Plan Summarized In 4 Words: "3000 Bucks For Thingamajigs"
For those who missed Obama's post-NFP sermon on Friday, here is a summary of the Keynesian-in-Chief's latest plan to fix the country: $3000 for everyone to buy "thingamajigs." We wish this was a joke.
Court: Christians Can Be Ordered to Violate Beliefs
A ruling from Judge Tim L. Garcia
in the New Mexico Court of Appeals says states can require Christians
to violate their faith in order to do business, affirming a penalty of
nearly $7,000 for a photographer who refused to take pictures at a
lesbian “commitment” ceremony in the state where same-sex “marriage” was
illegal.
Judge’s Cynthia Fry and James Wechsler joined in the ruling by Garcia, which involved Elane Photography, whose owners, Elaine and Jonathan Huegeunin, are Christians and declined to do photography for lesbians Vanessa Willock and another woman.
The women complained under the state’s anti-discrimination requirements and a state commission, the New Mexico Human Rights Commission, imposed the penalty, which now has been affirmed by the appeals court judges. The judges explained in the 45-page ruling that the photography company is a “public accommodation” and those cannot discriminate under state law based on “sexual orientation.”
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Judge’s Cynthia Fry and James Wechsler joined in the ruling by Garcia, which involved Elane Photography, whose owners, Elaine and Jonathan Huegeunin, are Christians and declined to do photography for lesbians Vanessa Willock and another woman.
The women complained under the state’s anti-discrimination requirements and a state commission, the New Mexico Human Rights Commission, imposed the penalty, which now has been affirmed by the appeals court judges. The judges explained in the 45-page ruling that the photography company is a “public accommodation” and those cannot discriminate under state law based on “sexual orientation.”
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WWE Presents SmackDown World Tour This Saturday, June 9th At The Wicomico Youth & Civic Center
(Salisbury, MD) Catch the action when WWE presents the SmackDown World Tour at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center this Saturday, June 9th at 7:30pm.
The show will feature a Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight Championship for the first time ever in Salisbury, as Sheamus takes on Alberto Del Rio. Fans will also see The Great Khali vs. Kane, the return of Sin Cara live in action and other SmackDown Superstars including Drew McIntyre, Ryback, Tyson Kidd, The Uso Brothers, The Divas and many more.
Tickets are still available for this action-packed event. Tickets start at $15 (additional taxes/fees may apply) and can be purchased online at www.WicomicoCivicCenter.org, by phone at 410-548-4911 or at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center Box Office, 500 Glen Avenue, Salisbury, MD 21804.
The show will feature a Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight Championship for the first time ever in Salisbury, as Sheamus takes on Alberto Del Rio. Fans will also see The Great Khali vs. Kane, the return of Sin Cara live in action and other SmackDown Superstars including Drew McIntyre, Ryback, Tyson Kidd, The Uso Brothers, The Divas and many more.
Tickets are still available for this action-packed event. Tickets start at $15 (additional taxes/fees may apply) and can be purchased online at www.WicomicoCivicCenter.org, by phone at 410-548-4911 or at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center Box Office, 500 Glen Avenue, Salisbury, MD 21804.
New Fines In Place For Cats And Dogs That Don’t Buckle Up In New Jersey
Click it or ticket. It’s not just for people anymore — at least in the Garden State.
Police and animal control officers are authorized to cite drivers with unrestrained animals in the car. Yes, that includes the back of a pickup truck too. Violators can be fined $250 to $1,000 per offense.
Ray Martinez, head of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, just wants to avoid distracted driving.
“People actually driving with a dog or a cat on their laps. It’s not cute. It’s actually dangerous for the driver. It’s dangerous for other drivers and it’s dangerous for that pet.”
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Police and animal control officers are authorized to cite drivers with unrestrained animals in the car. Yes, that includes the back of a pickup truck too. Violators can be fined $250 to $1,000 per offense.
Ray Martinez, head of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, just wants to avoid distracted driving.
“People actually driving with a dog or a cat on their laps. It’s not cute. It’s actually dangerous for the driver. It’s dangerous for other drivers and it’s dangerous for that pet.”
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Hanoi Opens 3 MIA Search Areas, Releases Letters
"If Dad calls, tell him I got too close to being dead but I'm O.K. I was real lucky. I'll write again soon."
That poignant message never reached the mother of Army Sgt. Steve Flaherty. He was killed in Vietnam in 1969 before he could mail the letters he was carrying, including one he might have been writing when he died. The letters were taken by the Vietnamese after his death, U.S. officials said in releasing excerpts on Monday.
The letters, chronicling the carnage and exhaustion of war, were given to Defense Secretary Leon Panetta in exchange for a Vietnamese soldier's diary that was taken from his body by an American GI. The letters will be returned to Flaherty's family in South Carolina.
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That poignant message never reached the mother of Army Sgt. Steve Flaherty. He was killed in Vietnam in 1969 before he could mail the letters he was carrying, including one he might have been writing when he died. The letters were taken by the Vietnamese after his death, U.S. officials said in releasing excerpts on Monday.
The letters, chronicling the carnage and exhaustion of war, were given to Defense Secretary Leon Panetta in exchange for a Vietnamese soldier's diary that was taken from his body by an American GI. The letters will be returned to Flaherty's family in South Carolina.
More
BOE Just Posted This Information, Like They Don't Want People To Show Up Tonight
Funding For Public Education Part Of Wicomico County Council Budget Hearing at 6:30 Tonight, Wicomico Youth & Civic Center
The Wicomico County Council will hold a budget hearing for the Fiscal Year 2012-13 county budget at 6:30 p.m. tonight during its regular meeting, which will be held in the Midway Room of the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center. The community is invited to attend to speak on and show support for portions of the budget, which the County Council anticipates approving in a special meeting June 11.
Board of Education, school system officials and other school supporters will attend to support funding for public education. Many people are expected to speak in support of the school system's May 1 amended budget request to the county, for $38.7 million in funding. A presentation on the Board of Education's budget is posted here, on the Board's Budget page:
http://www.wcboe.org/file/0000001983..052412_Board_Budget_Hearing_Presentation.pdf
The Proposed Wicomico County FY2013 Operating Budget can be reviewed in its entirety and can be downloaded from the county’s web site: www.wicomicocounty.org; look under “What’s New.” For purposes of the public hearing the Proposed Budget will be projected on a large screen in the civic center. Persons who may want their own printed copy of the Proposed Budget should download and print it from the website. Only a very limited number of printed copies will be made for the hearing.
In addition to the public hearing, interested persons may telephone, or email any member of the Wicomico County Council, whose contact information may be found on the county web site under County Council.
The Board of Education will adopt a final budget later this month.
Publishers Notes: This information was clearly known for WEEKS, yet the BOE just published it on their Website. I have a major issue with the BOE continuously pulling these games by NOT keeping the public informed until the last minute.
The Wicomico County Council will hold a budget hearing for the Fiscal Year 2012-13 county budget at 6:30 p.m. tonight during its regular meeting, which will be held in the Midway Room of the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center. The community is invited to attend to speak on and show support for portions of the budget, which the County Council anticipates approving in a special meeting June 11.
Board of Education, school system officials and other school supporters will attend to support funding for public education. Many people are expected to speak in support of the school system's May 1 amended budget request to the county, for $38.7 million in funding. A presentation on the Board of Education's budget is posted here, on the Board's Budget page:
http://www.wcboe.org/file/0000001983..052412_Board_Budget_Hearing_Presentation.pdf
The Proposed Wicomico County FY2013 Operating Budget can be reviewed in its entirety and can be downloaded from the county’s web site: www.wicomicocounty.org; look under “What’s New.” For purposes of the public hearing the Proposed Budget will be projected on a large screen in the civic center. Persons who may want their own printed copy of the Proposed Budget should download and print it from the website. Only a very limited number of printed copies will be made for the hearing.
In addition to the public hearing, interested persons may telephone, or email any member of the Wicomico County Council, whose contact information may be found on the county web site under County Council.
The Board of Education will adopt a final budget later this month.
Publishers Notes: This information was clearly known for WEEKS, yet the BOE just published it on their Website. I have a major issue with the BOE continuously pulling these games by NOT keeping the public informed until the last minute.
Your 2011 Federal Taxpayer Receipt
In his 2011 State of the Union Address, President Obama promised that,
for the first time ever, American taxpayers would be able to go online
and see exactly how their federal tax dollars are spent. The receipt
launched that year and, now, we’ve updated the tool to reflect current
spending. Just enter a few pieces of information about your taxes, and
the taxpayer receipt will give you a breakdown of how your tax dollars
are spent on priorities like education, veterans benefits, or health
care.
Go HERE to understand how and where your tax dollars are being spent
Go HERE to understand how and where your tax dollars are being spent
Mitchell A No Show & Ireton Leaves Early
At yesterday's work session Laura Mitchell was a no show and Mayor Ireton left very early into the meeting. It only took two phone calls for me to find out exactly why they refused to participate in important city business.
Ireton and Mitchell were attending a special Meeting with Governor O'Malley and the Speaker of the House in Annapolis for the upcoming Democratic National Convention.
If you ever wondered why the City can't ever seem to head in the right direction its because you have a Mayor and one Council Member, (Mitchell) more interested in Obama than they are the good of the City of Salisbury. The citizens can't forget that Mitchell over spent taxpayer money traveling back and forth to Annapolis throughout the year for special interest meetings not approved by the Council in advance.
They have more interest in this being a stepping stone for the future than anything else.
Ireton and Mitchell were attending a special Meeting with Governor O'Malley and the Speaker of the House in Annapolis for the upcoming Democratic National Convention.
If you ever wondered why the City can't ever seem to head in the right direction its because you have a Mayor and one Council Member, (Mitchell) more interested in Obama than they are the good of the City of Salisbury. The citizens can't forget that Mitchell over spent taxpayer money traveling back and forth to Annapolis throughout the year for special interest meetings not approved by the Council in advance.
They have more interest in this being a stepping stone for the future than anything else.
Common cat parasite could actually be causing schizophrenia and suicide
Tons of cat owners (and non-cat-owning gardeners and kids who play in sandboxes turned into litterboxes by neighborhood cats) have Toxoplasma gondii, the common feline parasite. We've known for quite some time that T. gondii makes rats lose their fear of cats, making them more likely to be eaten. We've also known that the parasite causes humans to become more reckless, and in some cases hornier .
But now, evidence is piling up that T. gondii may have something to do with the rise in schizophrenia, may be a major factor in hundreds of thousands of traffic fatalities, and could be driving people to suicide. There's new evidence that the parasite jacks up the dopamine receptors in your brain, which govern pleasure and fear responses, which could cause greater changes in behavior than we ever realized. All of which leads to the question: Just how much is this parasite controlling people's minds?
Possible Meth Lab Found in Howard County Holiday Inn
Police in Howard County, Md. are investigating what appears to be a
meth lab in an Elkridge hotel room.
At 10:40 p.m. Police received an anonymous phone call reporting a meth lab at the Holiday Inn Express on the 6000 block of Marshalee Drive.
Officers detected a strong odor near a room on the fourth floor. When they knocked they were let in my three men. Chemicals were found in the room and the three were arrested as well as a fourth man who arrived later. The men apparently checked in to the hotel on Saturday.
Police are working to identify the four men.
More
At 10:40 p.m. Police received an anonymous phone call reporting a meth lab at the Holiday Inn Express on the 6000 block of Marshalee Drive.
Officers detected a strong odor near a room on the fourth floor. When they knocked they were let in my three men. Chemicals were found in the room and the three were arrested as well as a fourth man who arrived later. The men apparently checked in to the hotel on Saturday.
Police are working to identify the four men.
More
Supreme Court Sides With Secret Service Agents
The Supreme Court sided with the Secret Service in a case involving two agents, an anti-war protester and former Vice President Dick Cheney. The agents were protecting Cheney at a Colorado shopping mall when protester Steve Howards approached them, he said, to tell the vice president about his political views, the Associate Press reported. Agents said he also touched Cheney on the shoulder. They arrested Howards and he sued them for violating his rights. Lawyers for the Secret Service argued that agents should be shielded from these types of lawsuits. The justices did not go that far in their opinion, but they said the agents could not be sued here because the law was unclear.
Wisconsin's Recall Drama Down To Nail-Biting Finish
Wisconsin's recall is, as reporter John Nichols put it, the kind of "renegade politics" that are disdained by the national Democratic party and even some state Democrats. It is being driven by the same activists who turned out by the thousands to occupy their capitol when Governor Scott Walker attacked workers' right to organize and bargain collectively.
Now, a day before the biggest recall yet—of Governor Walker, Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch, and four Republican state senators—the fight will be won or lost where it began: on the ground.
There's a lot of big outside money pouring into Wisconsin, mostly to pump up Walker's attempt to hang on to his seat, but the one thing that money can't buy is an excited, driven grassroots movement. If Milwaukee mayor Tom Barrett beats Walker on Tuesday, it will be because of thousands of volunteers getting out the vote person by person.
"This is really a case of Walker raising $13 million against possibly the most widespread grassroots get-out-the-vote effort in the state's history," Matt Reiter, co-president of the Teaching Assistants' Association at the University of Wisconsin at Madison, told AlterNet.
More
Now, a day before the biggest recall yet—of Governor Walker, Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch, and four Republican state senators—the fight will be won or lost where it began: on the ground.
There's a lot of big outside money pouring into Wisconsin, mostly to pump up Walker's attempt to hang on to his seat, but the one thing that money can't buy is an excited, driven grassroots movement. If Milwaukee mayor Tom Barrett beats Walker on Tuesday, it will be because of thousands of volunteers getting out the vote person by person.
"This is really a case of Walker raising $13 million against possibly the most widespread grassroots get-out-the-vote effort in the state's history," Matt Reiter, co-president of the Teaching Assistants' Association at the University of Wisconsin at Madison, told AlterNet.
More
School Districts Aren't Buying Pink Slime Claims
School districts do not seem to be buying the Agriculture Department's claim that "pink slime" is perfectly fine. The Department of Agriculture said only three states in its National School Lunch Program have chosen to buy the product, also known as "lean, finely textured beef." Those are Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota, where pink slime is made. Schools had served up pink slime for decades until a recent public outcry. In response, for the first time, USDA gave schools a choice to purchase beef without the slime, which is used for a filler. It was still accepting orders for the upcoming school year. The agency maintained that pink slime was safe, affordable and low in fat.
Can A Hunger Strike End A Stalemate On Capitol Hill Over The Postal Service?
Five protesters think so. The current and former postal workers said they would begin their fast in a couple of weeks. A hunger strike was appropriate because, they said, the Postal Service was being starved to death by a law that required it to pre-pay retiree health benefits. The agency agreed that the requirement was a major reason why it was strapped for cash. But it cited other labor costs too, and that didn't sit well with these protesters. They wanted the agency to suspend plans to cut its rolls and close facilities.
State Of Florida To Ignore Governor Rick Scott
The state of Florida told the Justice Department they intend to ignore its demand that Governor Rick Scott end his illegal purge of Democratic voters in the Sunshine State. Despite being informed via a DOJ letter they were in violation of the Voting rights Act last week – officials in Governor Scott's government are pressing forward with a massive effort to kick mostly Democratic-leaning and poor people off the voting rolls. The Florida Secretary of State's office responded to the DOJ letter saying, "We are going to continue forward and do everything that we can legally do to make sure that ineligible voters cannot vote." However, there's overwhelming evidence that legal residents are having their voting rights stripped away in this voter purge. Democratic Senator Bill Nelson has called for an end to the voter purge – as has the Democratic Party Chairman in Broward County – and the Miami Herald newspaper, which uncovered evidence that most of the voters to be removed from the roles were minorities and Democrats – and very few were Republicans. Now – investigative reporter Lee Fang has uncovered a possible connection between the Florida voter purge and major right-wing political donors. As Fang reports – Former Florida Secretary of State Kurt Browning – who began the voter purge – previously led a Conservative group called "Protect Your Vote Inc." – which received a $100,000 check from another organization that receives much of it's funding from the billionaire oligarchs the Koch Brothers. The Koch Brothers are also behind funding to the American Legislative Exchange Council – which has churned out numerous statewide Voter ID laws to make it harder for Democratic voters to vote. So, it's pretty obvious why Governor Rick Scott is refusing to end his illegal voter purge. It's because he no longer thinks he has to answer to the nation's democratically-elected federal government. Instead – he – and other Republican Governors around the nation – now answer to the new Oligarchy of the United States – billionaires headed up by people like the Koch brothers.
Delmar Pizza Burglary
INCIDENT: Burglary Investigation 74-12-2023
Date /Time: 06-01-12 03:30 Hrs
Location: Delmar Pizza (State Line Plaza) Delmar, De
Date /Time: 06-01-12 03:30 Hrs
Location: Delmar Pizza (State Line Plaza) Delmar, De
Suspect: Unidentified Black Male wearing a Baseball Cap, Dark Colored Shirt, Tan Pants, and Tennis Shoes. The Suspect was armed with a Tire Iron.
Narrative:
On 06-01-12 at approx. 03:30 Hrs, an unidentified Black Male Entered the Delmar Pizza Restaurant by breaking a window at the front of the business. The Suspect then used the Tire Iron which he brought with him to pry open the Cash Register and removed an unknown amount of currency.
On 06-01-12 at approx. 03:30 Hrs, an unidentified Black Male Entered the Delmar Pizza Restaurant by breaking a window at the front of the business. The Suspect then used the Tire Iron which he brought with him to pry open the Cash Register and removed an unknown amount of currency.
The Delmar Police need your help in identifying this suspect. If you have any information that may be helpful in identifying the suspect, please call the Delmar Police Department at 410-896-3131.
Now Its Unfair That I Own A Blog
It cracks me up to no end how we have received so many comments complaining that it is unfair that I am running for Mayor and I own a Blog.
Well, let's see Nay Sayers, doesn't Ireton have the Daily Times? Funny how Ireton admitted Saturday night that he knew Salisbury News is blowing the Daily Times away and now all of a sudden a select few think its unfair that I have a Blog.
Look, I have worked MANY years to run this Blog. Do you actually think for a second that I've been doing this for the past 8 years just so I can run for Mayor and make a big $25,000.00 a year in doing so.
I have an obligation to our viewers to tell the news. Ireton and Mitchell not showing up and or leaving as soon as a Council Work Session starts is news. If you don't like it I would suggest you go tell your Mayor he has a FIRST commitment to the citizens of Salisbury first and that goes for Mitchell too.
Well, let's see Nay Sayers, doesn't Ireton have the Daily Times? Funny how Ireton admitted Saturday night that he knew Salisbury News is blowing the Daily Times away and now all of a sudden a select few think its unfair that I have a Blog.
Look, I have worked MANY years to run this Blog. Do you actually think for a second that I've been doing this for the past 8 years just so I can run for Mayor and make a big $25,000.00 a year in doing so.
I have an obligation to our viewers to tell the news. Ireton and Mitchell not showing up and or leaving as soon as a Council Work Session starts is news. If you don't like it I would suggest you go tell your Mayor he has a FIRST commitment to the citizens of Salisbury first and that goes for Mitchell too.
Romney Has His Own Issues
The Romney campaign is going to have a tougher time making untruthful Solyndra attacks now, thanks to a new revelation that, as Governor of Massachusetts, Romney ALSO invested taxpayer dollars into a green company that went belly-up. In 2003 – Romney appeared outside solar company Konarka Technologies – calling for more grants for the renewable energy sector.
But after a $1.5 million investment by the state – Konarka filed for bankruptcy – laying off its entire staff – and liquidating all of its assets. So when Romney attacks President Obama far a similarly failed investment at Solyndra – he's also attacking himself. And somehow right-wingers - and even the mainstream corporate press - alwasy fail to mention, when reporting on Republican attacks on Solyndra - that the program that financed Solyndra was started in 2005 during the Bush Administration, and Bush's same federal employees recommended Solyndra's funding.
But after a $1.5 million investment by the state – Konarka filed for bankruptcy – laying off its entire staff – and liquidating all of its assets. So when Romney attacks President Obama far a similarly failed investment at Solyndra – he's also attacking himself. And somehow right-wingers - and even the mainstream corporate press - alwasy fail to mention, when reporting on Republican attacks on Solyndra - that the program that financed Solyndra was started in 2005 during the Bush Administration, and Bush's same federal employees recommended Solyndra's funding.
Defense of Marriage Act Goes to SCOTUS
The Supreme Court is the next stop in the battle over the definition of
marriage, thanks to a federal appeals court partially striking down a
law defending marriage passed by a strong bipartisan majority and signed
by President Bill Clinton.
Congress enacted the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in 1996. It passed the House 342-67, and the Senate 85-14, with strong bipartisan supermajorities. But DOMA is under attack in federal court. Then President Barack Obama joined those challenges, with Attorney General Eric Holder abandoning his duty to defend Acts of Congress in court, and instead filing legal briefs arguing the courts should strike down DOMA. So Congress has retained outside counsel to do Holder’s job, with its Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group (BLAG) hiring the finest Supreme Court lawyer in the nation, former U.S. Solicitor General Paul Clement, to defend DOMA.
Two provisions of DOMA are newsworthy. The first is Section 2, providing that if one state creates same-sex marriage, other states are not required to recognize them. The other is Section 3, providing that for federal law and federal programs—such as Social Security spousal benefits—marriage is defined as one man and one woman.
More
Congress enacted the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in 1996. It passed the House 342-67, and the Senate 85-14, with strong bipartisan supermajorities. But DOMA is under attack in federal court. Then President Barack Obama joined those challenges, with Attorney General Eric Holder abandoning his duty to defend Acts of Congress in court, and instead filing legal briefs arguing the courts should strike down DOMA. So Congress has retained outside counsel to do Holder’s job, with its Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group (BLAG) hiring the finest Supreme Court lawyer in the nation, former U.S. Solicitor General Paul Clement, to defend DOMA.
Two provisions of DOMA are newsworthy. The first is Section 2, providing that if one state creates same-sex marriage, other states are not required to recognize them. The other is Section 3, providing that for federal law and federal programs—such as Social Security spousal benefits—marriage is defined as one man and one woman.
More
Greece-Revolution?
Greece may be headed for a "revolution" – with a crucial election less than two weeks away. Greek election law prohibits polls from being released two weeks before a vote – and the last poll released before the ban takes effect shows the far-left anti-austerity SYRIZA party with a comfortable of 5-point lead heading into the June 16th contest. On Friday, SYRIZA leader – Alex TSipras – unveiled the party's agenda should they win control of parliament – which includes: an immediate end to the spending cuts and austerity agenda that Greece agreed to earlier this year in exchange for a bailout, an increase in the minimum wage, a tax hike on the rich, the repeal of a privatization drive, and the nationalization of Greek banks. This agenda will likely mean an end to Greece's membership in the Eurozone – but a new chance at rebuilding an economy ravaged by austerity-pushing technocrats and banksters.
GOP Considers Raising Taxes To Prevent Military Cuts
With $600 billion in cuts to the Pentagon – including cuts to lucrative defense contracts – coming down the pike because Congress failed to come up with a deal to cut the deficit last year – Republicans are scrambling to prevent the cuts from taking effect. They're even considering something they pledged to their anti-tax overlord, multimillionaire lobbyist Grover Norquist, that they'd never do – and that's raise taxes. In the Senate – Lindsey Graham is openly talking about closing tax loopholes and increasing taxes on oil companies, to prevent defense cuts. And in the House – the Chairman of the Armed Services Committee – Representative Buck McKeon, has said he'd support tax hikes to prevent the defense cuts as well. So here's another glimpse into the morality of today's Republican Party. They're willing to raise taxes to keep the American war machine going – but not to keep tens of millions of American children out of poverty.
Forest Service Hit For Border Patrol Call
A federal department ruled last week that the Forest Service
violated a Spanish-speaking woman’s civil rights by calling the Border
Patrol to help translate during a routine stop, saying it was
“humiliating” to Hispanics and an illicit backdoor way to capture more
illegal immigrants.
The ruling by the Agriculture Department’s assistant secretary for civil rights could change policies nationwide as law enforcement agencies grapple with how far they can go in trying to help the Border Patrol while not running afoul of racial profiling standards.
Assistant Secretary Joe Leonard Jr. said calling the Border Patrol automatically “escalates” encounters between Hispanics and law enforcement. He ruled that the Forest Service cannot routinely summon the Border Patrol for assistance and said the agency now must document suspected racial profiling nationwide.
More
The ruling by the Agriculture Department’s assistant secretary for civil rights could change policies nationwide as law enforcement agencies grapple with how far they can go in trying to help the Border Patrol while not running afoul of racial profiling standards.
Assistant Secretary Joe Leonard Jr. said calling the Border Patrol automatically “escalates” encounters between Hispanics and law enforcement. He ruled that the Forest Service cannot routinely summon the Border Patrol for assistance and said the agency now must document suspected racial profiling nationwide.
More
Public Transportation Ridership Use Surged In First Quarter 2012
Washington, DC -- Nationwide Increase of 5.0% with Nearly 2.7 Billion Trips Taken Public transportation ridership surged in the first quarter of 2012, as Americans took nearly 2.7 billion trips, an increase of 5.0% over the first quarter of last year, according to a report released today by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). This was the fifth consecutive quarter of U.S. public transit ridership increase, as 125.7 million more trips were taken than the first quarter of 2011.
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Prince George's County Offering Gift Cards For Guns
Residents can turn in any gun in Prince George's County and
receive up to $100 in gift cards for each gun.
The county is teaming up with the NAACP in the Gift Cards for Guns program in an attempt to reduce gun-related crimes. The program provides an incentive for those who are willing to anonymously turn in their weapons for Visa gift cards.
"The life you save may be your own. You just never know," says Florena Carter of Hyattsville, whose son Sephan was murdered by her brother.
More
The county is teaming up with the NAACP in the Gift Cards for Guns program in an attempt to reduce gun-related crimes. The program provides an incentive for those who are willing to anonymously turn in their weapons for Visa gift cards.
"The life you save may be your own. You just never know," says Florena Carter of Hyattsville, whose son Sephan was murdered by her brother.
More
Judge Tells FDA To Rethink Antibiotics On Farm Animals
A federal judge told the Food and Drug Administration to rethink a decision about use of antibiotics in farm animals. It was the second bench ruling to go against the FDA. The agency had decided not to start the process of disapproving the use of penicillin for animal feed. Reuters reported several interest groups thought the drugs end up making human infections resistant to antibiotics. They petitioned the FDA to withdraw approval. FDA said the process would be too expensive and time consuming. The judge said that decision was arbitrary and capricious.
Proactive Police Work
The Salisbury Police Department along with members of the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland State Police, & MSP Gang Enforcement Unit concluded the first weekly Criminal Patrol Initiative (CPI) from May 31-June 2, 2012.
During this operation, the multi-jurisdictional officers conducted saturation patrols in the East Church St area, Doverdale area, Princeton Homes area, West Main St area, and the Smith St area.
These areas were targeted due to an influx of street robberies, thefts from motor vehicles and firearms related offenses.
Officers completed 20 Field Interview Reports, 5 On-view Arrests, 3 Arrest Warrants served, 28 Motor Vehicle Warnings issued, and 9 Motor Vehicle Citations issued.
In addition, the following was seized: a large quantity of suspected cocaine, $725 in USC, .22 caliber handgun, scales and related CDS paraphernalia.
The CPI will continue throughout the summer months. Efforts and resources will be focused using up to date crime data analysis.
During this operation, the multi-jurisdictional officers conducted saturation patrols in the East Church St area, Doverdale area, Princeton Homes area, West Main St area, and the Smith St area.
These areas were targeted due to an influx of street robberies, thefts from motor vehicles and firearms related offenses.
Officers completed 20 Field Interview Reports, 5 On-view Arrests, 3 Arrest Warrants served, 28 Motor Vehicle Warnings issued, and 9 Motor Vehicle Citations issued.
In addition, the following was seized: a large quantity of suspected cocaine, $725 in USC, .22 caliber handgun, scales and related CDS paraphernalia.
The CPI will continue throughout the summer months. Efforts and resources will be focused using up to date crime data analysis.
The Postal Service Has Begun Buyout Talks With Its Biggest Union
The American Postal Workers Union said it has had informal conversations and hasn't discussed any official offers. The union said other outstanding issues needed to be settled first. It didn't go into more detail on its website, but the cash incentive was likely to be a sticking point. Another union — the National Postal Mail Handlers — agreed to a $15,000 buyout deal for its members. The agency is offering slightly more — $20,000 — to select postmasters, but the government standard is $25,000.
DOJ to Monitor Wisconsin Recall Election
The Justice Department will be monitoring polling activities in
Milwaukee during the recall election of Republican Governor Scott Walker
on Tuesday. According to a DOJ press release:
The Justice Department announced today that it will monitor elections
on June 5, 2012, in the following jurisdictions to ensure compliance
with the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and other federal voting rights
statutes: Alameda, Fresno and Riverside Counties, Calif.; Cibola and
Sandoval Counties, N.M.; Shannon County, S.D.; and the city of
Milwaukee.
The Voting Rights Act prohibits discrimination
in the election process on the basis of race, color or membership in a
minority language group. In addition, the act requires certain covered
jurisdictions to provide language assistance during the election
process. Fresno County, Riverside County and the city of Milwaukee are
required to provide assistance in Spanish. Cibola, Sandoval and Shannon
Counties are required to provide language assistance to Native American
voters. Alameda County is required to provide language assistance to
Hispanic, Chinese, Vietnamese and Filipino voters.
'I don't think I will ever forget the bloody fight': GI's letters provide a glimpse at fog of war
The letter from the frontlines could have been written yesterday.
"Thank you for your sweet card. It made my miserable day a much better one but I don't think I will ever forget the bloody fight we are having," reads a handwritten note to Betty from Steve Flaherty of Columbia, S.C. "RPG rockets and machine guns really tore my rucksack."
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"Thank you for your sweet card. It made my miserable day a much better one but I don't think I will ever forget the bloody fight we are having," reads a handwritten note to Betty from Steve Flaherty of Columbia, S.C. "RPG rockets and machine guns really tore my rucksack."
More
SPD Press Releases 6-5-12
Victoria Christina Smith, 20yo of Pittsville, MD was arrested and
charged with 9 counts of Prescription Fraud.
On June 1, 2012 at approximately 11:58am, an officer responded
to the Delmarva Pharmacy for a female attempting to pass a
fraudulent prescription. The officer made contact with an
employee of the business who identified the female as Smith,
who was immediately detained. It was learned that Smith had
attempted to pass a forged prescription for a quantity of
Oxycodone. Smith was released to the custody of central
booking. (2012-21532)
Beneatha Faye Stephens, 52yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested and
charged with1st & 2nd degree Assault, Openly Wear & Carry a
Deadly Weapon, and Disorderly Conduct.
Yolanda Rachaile Briddell, 45yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested and
charged with1st & (3 counts) 2nd degree Assault, 2nd degree
Assault on a Police Officer, 2 counts of Reckless Endangerment,
Resist Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, Openly Wear & Carry a Deadly
Weapon, Disorderly Intoxication, Obstruction & Hindering, and
Fail to Obey a Lawful Order.
On June 1, 2012 at approximately 7:00pm, officers responded to
the 700 block of West Main St, Sandi’s One Stop, for a reported
stabbing. On the arrival of the officers, a victim (Briddell) was
located who had sustained several puncture wounds to her body.
Briddell told officers that she had been assaulted by Stephens.
Officers had to physically restrain Briddell from attacking
Stephens while EMS was en-route. Officers met with Stephens
who had also sustained several wounds to include a bite to her
left bicep. Stephens also claimed that she was struck with a large
stick on her head. As the officers continued their investigation,
Briddell struck one officer in the forehead with a closed fist and
bit a second officer on the arm. Briddell was finally brought
under control and transported to PRMC for medical attention.
Both subjects were released to the custody of central booking.
(2012-21602)
Juvenile, 17yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested and charged with
Affray & Disorderly Conduct.
Dana Kirsten Dennard, 23yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested and
charged with Affray.
Karren Deneen McCray, 47yo of Sharptown, MD was arrested and
charged with Affray.
Antwine Orlando Arnez Johnson, 21yo of Baltimore, MD was
arrested and charged with Affray.
Deqaun Latrell Dixon, 19yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested and
charged with Affray.
On June 2, 2012 at approximately 1:35am officers responded to
the parking lot in front of 1020 Fairground Dr for a reported large
fight. On the officers arrival they observed the above listed
subjects in a physical altercation with each other. All of the
subjects were arrested. The juvenile was released to the custody
of a parent and the four adults were released to central booking.
Whitney Diane Dupont, 18yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested on an
arrest warrant charging her with Conspiracy to Commit Robbery,
Conspiracy to Commit 2nd degree Assault, Conspiracy to Commit
Theft < $100 and Conspiracy to Commit Theft < $1000.
The warrant was obtained after an investigation into a Robbery
that occurred on April 29, 2012 in the 500 block of Decatur Ave.
Investigation revealed that Dupont was complicit with two other
subjects in the Robbery of the victim that led to the victim being
assaulted and property stolen from him.
charged with 9 counts of Prescription Fraud.
On June 1, 2012 at approximately 11:58am, an officer responded
to the Delmarva Pharmacy for a female attempting to pass a
fraudulent prescription. The officer made contact with an
employee of the business who identified the female as Smith,
who was immediately detained. It was learned that Smith had
attempted to pass a forged prescription for a quantity of
Oxycodone. Smith was released to the custody of central
booking. (2012-21532)
Beneatha Faye Stephens, 52yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested and
charged with1st & 2nd degree Assault, Openly Wear & Carry a
Deadly Weapon, and Disorderly Conduct.
Yolanda Rachaile Briddell, 45yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested and
charged with1st & (3 counts) 2nd degree Assault, 2nd degree
Assault on a Police Officer, 2 counts of Reckless Endangerment,
Resist Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, Openly Wear & Carry a Deadly
Weapon, Disorderly Intoxication, Obstruction & Hindering, and
Fail to Obey a Lawful Order.
On June 1, 2012 at approximately 7:00pm, officers responded to
the 700 block of West Main St, Sandi’s One Stop, for a reported
stabbing. On the arrival of the officers, a victim (Briddell) was
located who had sustained several puncture wounds to her body.
Briddell told officers that she had been assaulted by Stephens.
Officers had to physically restrain Briddell from attacking
Stephens while EMS was en-route. Officers met with Stephens
who had also sustained several wounds to include a bite to her
left bicep. Stephens also claimed that she was struck with a large
stick on her head. As the officers continued their investigation,
Briddell struck one officer in the forehead with a closed fist and
bit a second officer on the arm. Briddell was finally brought
under control and transported to PRMC for medical attention.
Both subjects were released to the custody of central booking.
(2012-21602)
Juvenile, 17yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested and charged with
Affray & Disorderly Conduct.
Dana Kirsten Dennard, 23yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested and
charged with Affray.
Karren Deneen McCray, 47yo of Sharptown, MD was arrested and
charged with Affray.
Antwine Orlando Arnez Johnson, 21yo of Baltimore, MD was
arrested and charged with Affray.
Deqaun Latrell Dixon, 19yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested and
charged with Affray.
On June 2, 2012 at approximately 1:35am officers responded to
the parking lot in front of 1020 Fairground Dr for a reported large
fight. On the officers arrival they observed the above listed
subjects in a physical altercation with each other. All of the
subjects were arrested. The juvenile was released to the custody
of a parent and the four adults were released to central booking.
Whitney Diane Dupont, 18yo of Salisbury, MD was arrested on an
arrest warrant charging her with Conspiracy to Commit Robbery,
Conspiracy to Commit 2nd degree Assault, Conspiracy to Commit
Theft < $100 and Conspiracy to Commit Theft < $1000.
The warrant was obtained after an investigation into a Robbery
that occurred on April 29, 2012 in the 500 block of Decatur Ave.
Investigation revealed that Dupont was complicit with two other
subjects in the Robbery of the victim that led to the victim being
assaulted and property stolen from him.
Banks And The "Whole Democracy Thing" In 90 Seconds Or Less
90 seconds that describes the sad reality of US banking and politics - in Dr.Seuss style prose.
"Now cabbies and crop-pickers will pick up the slack; your taxes will bring the bankers right back;
where we'll keep spreading our good news, of deregulation and free market views - 'We know what we're doing, just stop with the rules!'"
"Now we're buying both sides to do our good bidding; That whole Democracy thing? Surely You're Kidding"
"Now cabbies and crop-pickers will pick up the slack; your taxes will bring the bankers right back;
where we'll keep spreading our good news, of deregulation and free market views - 'We know what we're doing, just stop with the rules!'"
"Now we're buying both sides to do our good bidding; That whole Democracy thing? Surely You're Kidding"
Senator Barack Obama Attended Bill Ayers Barbecue, July 4, 2005
As a presidential candidate in 2008, Barack Obama disavowed any connection with former domestic terrorist Bill Ayers, the Weather Underground radical who was one of Obama's early backers and his colleague on the board of the Woods Fund in Chicago. We now have proof that Obama's association with Ayers continued even after Obama had been elected to represent Illinois in the U.S. Senate--in the form of a now-scrubbed blog post placing Obama at the home of Ayers and his wife, fellow radical Bernardine Dohrn, on July 4, 2005.
Dr. Tom Perrin, Assistant Professor of English at Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama, was a graduate student at the University of Chicago at the time, and maintained a blog called "Rambling Thomas." He lived next door to Ayers and Dohrn in Hyde Park. He wrote at 8:44 a.m. on July 6, 2005:Guess what? I spent the 4th of July evening with star Democrat Barack Obama! Actually, that's a lie. Obama was at a barbecue at the house next door (given by a law professor who is a former member of the Weather Underground) and we saw him over the fence at our barbecue. Well, the others did. It had started raining and he had gone inside be the time I got there. Nevertheless.
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D.C. Prepares to Walk Fine Line on Deportations
D.C. Mayor Vincent C. Gray
assured immigrant groups Monday that the District is doing all it can
to make sure a program aimed at deporting violent aliens does not erode
trust between residents and law enforcement after it goes into effect on
Tuesday.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has implemented the Secure Communities program in nearly all of the country’s jurisdictions since it began the effort in 2008.
Under the program, the FBI automatically shares the fingerprints and criminal data it receives from local law enforcement agencies with ICE, so immigration officials can focus their limited resources on illegal immigrants who have been charged with crimes such as murder, rape and robbery. The agency touts the program as “a simple and common-sense way” to carry out its mission.
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U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has implemented the Secure Communities program in nearly all of the country’s jurisdictions since it began the effort in 2008.
Under the program, the FBI automatically shares the fingerprints and criminal data it receives from local law enforcement agencies with ICE, so immigration officials can focus their limited resources on illegal immigrants who have been charged with crimes such as murder, rape and robbery. The agency touts the program as “a simple and common-sense way” to carry out its mission.
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Early Thoughts 6-5-12
A blunder at the right moment
Is better than cleverness at the wrong time.
Instead of trying to minimize distractions,
It's better to set worthwhile goals.
Then distractions minimize themselves.
The nice thing about teamwork is that you always have others on your side.
Is better than cleverness at the wrong time.
Instead of trying to minimize distractions,
It's better to set worthwhile goals.
Then distractions minimize themselves.
The nice thing about teamwork is that you always have others on your side.
GSA Employees Under IG Investigation Received $1.1M in Bonuses
An ongoing congressional investigation reveals $1.1 million in bonuses were
awarded to 84 employees of the General Services Administration since 2008 —
while the inspector general was probing these individuals for wrongdoing or
misconduct.
Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), who is heading the investigation, said the overall number of employees receiving bonuses while under investigation is likely to be "far higher" since not all information for current investigations is now available, according to a release from the senator.
Of the 84 GSA employees, each received an average of eight bonuses, totaling $13,000. (See breakdown of bonus awards.)
One program officer received more than $38,000 in bonuses since 2008, despite being reassigned for abuse of authority. Another employee, a GS-14 level supervisor, received more than $20,000 in bonuses, even after being reprimanded for interfering with an IG investigation, according to the release.
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Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), who is heading the investigation, said the overall number of employees receiving bonuses while under investigation is likely to be "far higher" since not all information for current investigations is now available, according to a release from the senator.
Of the 84 GSA employees, each received an average of eight bonuses, totaling $13,000. (See breakdown of bonus awards.)
One program officer received more than $38,000 in bonuses since 2008, despite being reassigned for abuse of authority. Another employee, a GS-14 level supervisor, received more than $20,000 in bonuses, even after being reprimanded for interfering with an IG investigation, according to the release.
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BREAKING NEWS: Syria to Expel US, European Diplomats, Foreign Ministry Says
Syria's Foreign Ministry announces it will expel Western diplomats, including ambassadors from the US, Britain and France, after several Western nations expelled Syrian diplomats in a coordinated move against Assad regime in wake of massacre in Houla.
From Fox News
From Fox News