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Friday, January 11, 2013

"The Ballad of Honey Boo Boo"

Guns and Freedom

The right of the people to keep and bear arms is an extension of the natural right to self-defense and a hallmark of personal sovereignty. It is specifically insulated from governmental interference by the Constitution and has historically been the linchpin of resistance to tyranny. And yet, the progressives in both political parties stand ready to use the coercive power of the government to interfere with the exercise of that right by law-abiding persons because of the gross abuse of that right by some crazies in our midst.

When Thomas Jefferson wrote in the Declaration of Independence that we are endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable rights, he was marrying the nation at its birth to the ancient principles of the natural law that have animated the Judeo-Christian tradition in the West. Those principles have operated as a break on all governments that recognize them by enunciating the concept of natural rights.
As we have been created in the image and likeness of God the Father, we are perfectly free just as He is. Thus, the natural law teaches that our freedoms are pre-political and come from our humanity and not from the government, and as our humanity is ultimately divine in origin, the government, even by majority vote, cannot morally take natural rights away from us. A natural right is an area of individual human behavior – like thought, speech, worship, travel, self-defense, privacy, ownership and use of property, consensual personal intimacy – immune from government interference and for the exercise of which we don’t need the government’s permission.

The essence of humanity is freedom. Government – whether voted in peacefully or thrust upon us by force – is essentially the negation of freedom. Throughout the history of the world, people have achieved freedom when those in power have begrudgingly given it up. From the assassination of Julius Caesar to King John’s forced signing of the Magna Carta, from the English Civil War to the triumph of the allies at the end of World War II, from the fall of Communism to the Arab Spring, governments have permitted so-called nobles and everyday folk to exercise more personal freedom as a result of their demands for it and their fighting for it. This constitutes power permitting liberty.

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HERE’S HOW WYOMING LAWMAKERS ARE TRYING TO BEAT OBAMA ADMIN. TO THE PUNCH ON POSSIBLE GUN BAN

A number of Wyoming lawmakers are proposing legislation intended to protect gun owners from any future federal ban on semi-automatic rifles or high capacity magazines, KTWO reports.

Introduced last week, the “Firearms Protection Act” would make any federal law banning semi-automatic rifles or limiting magazine capacity unenforceable in Wyoming.

In fact, under the proposed bill, anyone who tried to enforce a federal gun ban could be charged with a felony. The Wyoming Attorney General’s office would also be permitted to defend any state resident against a federal gun ban.

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AFTERMATH OF WAR ON POVERTY

Catch 54 Planning To Add Mexican Flare To Tiki Bar

OCEAN CITY – As Catch 54 settles into its new restaurant, a new addition will soon arrive next door to accommodate the summer crowd that misses the old building’s outdoor vibe.

After a devastating fire a couple of summers ago, Catch 54, re-opened just a couple days before Memorial Day last summer just in time to show off the new buildings during the peak season.

The new restaurant, which is located on Route 54 not even a mile off of Coastal Highway, lies within the same footprint of the old but was built to accommodate a more year-round establishment. Previously, the first floor was open to the outside with a tiki bar and with a different layout upstairs.

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SINCE 1911

WORLDWIDE HISTORY OF GUN CONFISCATION

In 1929, the Soviet Union established gun control. From 1929 to 1953, about 20 million dissidents, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

In 1911, Turkey established gun control. From 1915 to 1917, 1.5 million Armenians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

Germany established gun control in 1938 and from 1939 to 1945, a total of 13 million Jews and others who were unable to defend themselves were rounded up and exterminated.

China established gun control in 1935. From 1948 to 1952, 20 million political dissidents, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

Guatemala established gun control in 1964. From 1964 to 1981, 100,000 Mayan Indians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

Uganda established gun control in 1970. From 1971 to 1979, 300,000 Christians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

Cambodia established gun control in 1956. From 1975 to 1977, one million educated people, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

There is a direct connections between government gun control schemes and the subsequent genocides that have taken the lives of over 170 million people!

Some say it would never happen here. If you do some research the same was said in the countries listed above.

The government is ok with funding the killing of babies.

Is this the above that far fetched?

What do you think?

Gasoline Prices Predicted To Fall In 2013

At least gasoline should cost you less in 2013.

Hamburgers, health care and taxes are all set to take a bigger bite out of the family budget this year. But drivers’ annual gas bills are expected to drop for the first time in four years.

Forecasters say ample oil supplies and weak U.S. demand will keep a lid on prices. The lows will be lower and the highs won’t be so high compared with a year ago. The average price of a gallon of gasoline will fall 5 percent to $3.44, according to the Energy Department.

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Cats Sharing Food From One Bowl

Two Deputies On Administrative leave After Officer-Involved Shooting, Fatally Shoot Suspect

Two Frederick County Sheriff's Office deputies are on administrative leave after an officer-involved shooting early this morning left a home invasion suspect dead.

Around 1 a.m., the Sheriff’s Office Special Services Team detonated a "flash bang" device to gain entry into the two-bedroom apartment of Daniel Vail, 19, in Mt. Airy.

Vail was wanted on a Howard County warrant related to a Jan. 8 home invasion robbery that involved a shotgun and baseball bats, according to a Frederick County Sheriff's Office press release. Vail was in one of the bedrooms and pointed a shotgun toward deputies after they entered his room, according to the sheriff's office.

Deputies made several commands directing Vail to put down the gun, but he did not comply. Two of the sheriff's team members fired numerous rounds, striking Vail. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

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LATEST GOVERNMENT JOBS REPORT FOR MONTH OF NOVEMBER - WICOMICO COUNTY LOSES 747 JOBS IN NOVEMBER 2012 VERSES NOVEMBER 2011 - LOCAL ECONOMY CONTINUES TO DETERIORATE

Labor Force Data By County, Not Seasonally Adjusted - 02/11 through 11/12
Source:  Bureau of Labor Statistics
Unemployment 
County Period Labor Force Employed Unemployed      Rate (%)
Wicomico 11-Feb 52506 47333 5173 9.9
Wicomico 11-Mar 53116 48391 4725 8.9
Wicomico 11-Apr 52961 48485 4476 8.5
Wicomico 11-May 53444 48877 4567 8.5
Wicomico 11-Jun 53825 48951 4874 9.1
Wicomico 11-Jul 54139 49273 4866 9
Wicomico 11-Aug 53423 48706 4717 8.8
Wicomico 11-Sep 53821 49172 4649 8.6
Wicomico 11-Oct 53384 48809 4575 8.6
Wicomico 11-Nov 53153 48516 4637 8.7
Wicomico 11-Dec 53213 48619 4594 8.6
Wicomico 12-Jan 51246 46321 4925 9.6
Wicomico 12-Feb 52605 47554 5051 9.6
Wicomico 12-Mar 53073 48351 4722 8.9
Wicomico 12-Apr 52786 48389 4397 8.3
Wicomico 12-May 53608 49253 4355 8.1
Wicomico 12-Jun 54256 49598 4658 8.6
Wicomico 12-Jul 54877 50349 4528 8.3
Wicomico 12-Aug 53372 49007 4365 8.2
Wicomico 12-Sep 52893 48773 4120 7.8
Wicomico 12-Oct 52487 48385 4102 7.8
Wicomico 12-Nov 52406 48060 4346 8.3 p
p = preliminary. SOURCE:  BLS, LAUS
8-Jan-13

Homeland Security Warns To Disable Java Amid Zero-Day Flaw

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has warned users to disable or uninstall Java software on their computers, amid continuing fears and an escalation in warnings from security experts that hundreds of millions of business and consumer users are vulnerable to a serious flaw.

Hackers have discovered a weakness in Java 7 security that could allow the installation of malicious software and malware on machines that could increase the chance of identity theft, or the unauthorized participation in a botnet that could bring down networks or be used to carry out denial-of-service attacks against Web sites.

"We are currently unaware of a practical solution to this problem," said the DHS' Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT) in a post on its Web site on Thursday evening. "This vulnerability is being attacked in the wild, and is reported to be incorporated into exploit kits. Exploit code for this vulnerability is also publicly available."

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Is American Justice Dead?

Every nation-state has a body of laws woven into the fabric of society. As Peruvian economist Hernando de Soto has commented on extensively, the stronger the rule of law, the stronger the economy.

And by "stronger" laws, I mean laws that are impervious to tampering for personal or political gains. The connection between a sound judiciary and economic health is readily comprehensible, except maybe to a politician... businesses and individuals are far more likely to invest capital in a country with understandable laws that are impartially and universally enforced than if the opposite condition exists.

That's because the lack of a consistent body of law breeds uncertainty and adds a huge element of risk for entrepreneurs. That is the case here in Argentina, where hardly a week goes by without La Presidenta and her meddlesome comrades cooking up some new hurdle for businesses to overcome.

Which brings me back to the matter at hand – American justice on a slippery slope.

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Paper, Plastic or Pint? Grocery Shopping Trend Takes Root In D.C.

Before hitting the produce or frozen foods sections, some grocery shoppers are stopping for a pint - and taking it with them as they check off their list.

Grocery stores have long adapted from being a routine errand, where the prominent choice was "paper or plastic."

Across the region, stores have added coffee bars, miniature pubs and wireless Internet access. A glass of wine with an arugula salad, bread and olive oil is more common than chic.

But the Whole Foods in Tenleytown has taken it a step further, offering shoppers the opportunity to do something rather unfamiliar.

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D.C. AG Declines To Press Charges In ‘Meet the Press’ Incident

No criminal charges will be brought against “Meet the Press” host David Gregory for his display of a high-capacity gun magazine on the show last month, the District’s Office of the Attorney General announced Friday.

The decision not to file criminal charges brings an end to authorities’ investigation into the circumstances leading up to the Dec. 23 taping of the NBC talk show, during which Mr. Gregory displayed an empty magazine as he interviewed National Rifle Association CEO Wayne LaPierre for a segment on gun control.

“Influencing our judgment in this case, among other things, is our recognition that the intent of the temporary possession and short display of the magazine was to promote the First Amendment purpose of informing an ongoing public debate about firearms policy in the United States,” wrote Attorney General Irvin B. Nathan in a letter to an attorney representing NBC that was released Friday.

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SURVEILLANCE NATION

Looks like schools are selling out students in favor of funding. Not surprisingly, the government wants to track school students (already in government indoctrination centers/schools) with RFID chips. Some of the students don’t think it’s too cool, the school spying on their every move in order to get state and Federal funds. Do you want the school and the state tracking your kids? How soon until they implant these devices in their bodies?

Your freedom, and the freedom of your children lessens with each passing day. When your phones, computers, cars, T.V.’s, and even your body are being monitored by the government, your every move tracked and recorded, you will be more compliant and afraid. They are watching you.

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Somerset County Residents Recovering From Hurricane Sandy Participate In Food Resource Day


Disaster-SNAP Benefits Available to Somerset County Residents who Lost Food Due to Hurricane Sandy

Crisfield – January 11, 2013 – The day after U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) toured Hurricane Sandy affected areas in Crisfield, Somerset County residents came out to the Food Resource Day – held from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Friday, January 11 at the Disaster Recovery Center in Crisfield – to apply for Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) benefits and to learn more about additional resources available to them.

Representatives from the Maryland Department of Human Resources assisted Somerset County residents with D-SNAP applications, while Maryland Hunger Solutions  - the lead organizer of the event - helped eligible residents with applications for regular Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly called food stamps, and called Food Supplement Program or FSP in Maryland) benefits.  At the event, perishable and non-perishable foods donated by the Maryland Food Bank were available to any families or individuals in need, and residents had an opportunity to learn about other benefits for which they may be eligible, including energy assistance, rental assistance, and home repairs. 

“Somerset County residents have been deeply affected by Hurricane Sandy, and the D-SNAP program is an important benefit of the Individual Assistance designation that is providing residents with temporary food assistance while they get back on their feet,” said Senator Ben Cardin, after touring affected areas on Thursday. “I want the people of Crisfield and Somerset County to know that I stand with them as they recover from the devastation of the storm, and I am committed to doing all I can to ensure that assistance and recovery efforts go as smoothly as possible.” 

Maryland Hunger Solutions led the advocacy efforts to get D-SNAP in Somerset County. In December, U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara Mikulski and Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley all worked to ensure that Somerset County was eligible for Individual Assistance.  The Individual Assistance designation enabled the state to apply for D-SNAP; which the USDA granted in Somerset County.

“Sandy’s wrath had a measurable impact on Marylanders, and especially on the residents of Somerset County. Two months after Sandy, it’s important that those affected know that they have a federal government on their side,” said Senator Barbara Mikulski in a written statement.  “That’s why I fought so hard for Individual Assistance for families and businesses in Somerset County. This critical nutrition assistance will ensure that those who need it most in Somerset County will not have to go to bed hungry.”

Many residents in Somerset County lost power for multiple days after Hurricane Sandy.  According to the Maryland Department of Human Resources, more than 1,400 county residents are eligible for D-SNAP. The program works by extending benefits to many households that would not ordinarily be eligible for SNAP but suddenly need food assistance in the wake of a natural disaster. The benefits are delivered via Electronic Benefit Transfer cards, which can expedite and mainstream the relief process for victims.

“D-SNAP is one of those vital programs that you don’t hear that much about until there is a situation where many residents are in need of emergency food benefits.  It is a remarkable program that – because of its structure – can help people affected by disasters in an efficient manner,” said Cathy Demeroto, Director of Maryland Hunger Solutions.

Somerset County Residents must apply for D-SNAP between January 7 and January 13, 2013.  Applications are accepted at the Disaster Recovery Center from 8 a.m. -7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. on Sundays.  Residents can also apply for benefits in the Somerset County DSS office, located at 30397 Mt. Vernon Road, Princess Anne. For more information, the DHR customer service line is 1-800-332-6347.

DONALD TRUMP TO BILL MAHER: COUGH UP THE $5 MILLION YOU OWE ME OR I’LL SUE YOU

Donald Trump wants the $5 million that HBO host Bill Maher promised to pay him if he could prove he was not the “spawn” of his mother having sexual relations with an orangutan. And if Maher doesn’t pay up, Trump said he will “probably sue him.”

Earlier this week Maher jokingly made the $5 million offer on “The Tonight Show,” saying he would give the money to a charity of Trump’s choice if he could prove he did not come from an orangutan. It was a knock on Trump’s previous offer to President Obama, in which he offered the president $5 million to a charity of his choice if he released his college and passport records.

And one day later, Trump released his birth certificate and called on Maher to honor the offer. The fact that Maher was obviously joking doesn’t seem to matter to the real estate tycoon.

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15-YEAR OLD BOY USES AR-15 TO DEFEND HIMSELF, SISTER AGAINST HOME INVADERS

A 15-year old boy used his father’s AR-15 to defend himself and his 12-year old sister against two burglars at their home just north of Houston, Texas.

Their father is a Harris County Precinct 1 deputy constable, and the boy knew what he had to do to keep himself and his sister alive. Around 2:30 PM, two men tried to break in, with one going through the front door and the other in the back.

The boy grabbed the AR-15 and shot at them. The two later showed up at a Tomball hospital. The adult was hit three times and was flown to Memorial Hermann hospital, while the juvenile was taken back to the crime scene.

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Will Obama Use An Executive Order To Enact Gun Control?

This Just In

Jim Beau is sending out emails begging for money and lying about what he has done.

Dear Friend, I wanted you to know that I’d like to be our Mayor again! Thanks for your support in the past, I will need it now more than ever! Please donate to the campaign, so we can keep our progress going in Salisbury. $25, $50, $100, or $250... whatever you can help with.

(The maximum donation to a municipal campaign is $250)

“When was the last time a politician could look you in the eye and tell you he did exactly what he promised when he ran for office? Well, I can and I’m proud of it. I'm proud of the coalitions I've built in making Salisbury a great place to do business, an exciting place to visit, and a safer place to live. Salisbury has $16 Million in surplus and I haven’t raised property taxes as mayor. We have torn down blighted houses as well as the Thrift Travel Inn and Linens of the Week.

I am looking forward to talking to citizens about how our city has significantly lowered crime rates, how we have created the first Wicomico River Watershed Plan, and how we have partnered with so many businesses and groups in the continued revitalization of our neighborhoods and our downtown.

Salisbury has made great strides by saying "YES" to so many partnerships with those who want our city to succeed and I am excited to ask our citizens to let me continue to lead on important issues. For all the times other elected officials have said "NO" to our citizens, I have said "YES" to moving Salisbury forward.” Jim!

Highlights of Mayor Ireton's First Term:

• Abandoned barges removed from the North Prong of Wicomico River

• Trash collection systems installed on many river outfall pipes

• 40% reduction in violent crime rates over 4 years, and 20% drop over the last decade

• Thrift Travel Inn and Linens of the Week blight torn down

• $16 Million dollars in city surplus funds

• City Audit done at the earliest in history

• 270 page Downtown Revitalization plan introduced

• Bateman/Onley Road Construction

• Tenants Bill of Rights is law

• Wastewater Treatment Plant lawsuit settled

• Salisbury named an All-America City

Thank you, everyone, for your support!

-Jim

By Authority: W. Sue Piper, Treasurer

MSP: Gun Purchase Applications Jump In 2012

A lot more people have applied for Maryland gun purchases in 2012 than in the year before.

State Police said that there were 46,339 applications for regulated firearms in 2011.

And last year the figure was 69,606.

The difference, 23,267, represents a 50 percent increase.

The process involves a seven-day waiting period, during which time the state police do a background check. There also is a requirement for firearm safety training, according to MSP Sgt. Marc Black, Sr. That training is available online, he said.

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America Meet Your New Slumlord: Wall Street

And I sincerely believe, with you, that banking establishments are more dangerous than standing armies; and that the principle of spending money to be paid by posterity, under the name of funding, is but swindling futurity on a large scale.

- Letter from Thomas Jefferson to John Taylor, May 28, 1816

Well they aren’t really your “new” slumlord in the sense you have been debt slaves to the financials system for decades. What I really mean is that it is now becoming overt and literal. Literal because financiers are now the main players in the real estate market and are buying all the homes ordinary citizens were kicked out of over the past few years. Yep, we bailed out the financial system so that financiers with access to cheap credit can buy up all of America’s real estate so that they can then rent it back to you later.

Of course, my opinion is that this will ultimately backfire on all the private equity buyers once they find out multiple generations will start living together and a weak economy will not provide the rental income they envision going forward. Particularly once we have another severe slowdown…which always happens eventually. Incredibly, Blackstone has spent $1.5 billion to buy homes in the last 2-3 months alone!

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Safe Haven To Announce Change In Leadership

The board of Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary in Georgetown has removed executive director Anne Gryczon. A statement is expected to be released later today by the board.

Karli Swope, a longtime volunteer for Safe Haven, said Gryczon was removed after the board meeting, Wednesday, Jan. 9.

Gryczon has served as executive director of the no-kill facility since 2008.

Swope said a group of staff members assembled a report on conditions of dogs living in three kennels around Delaware. She said the dogs have lost weight to the point staff was worried about their health.

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My Line In The Sand Is Drawn Here!

If Barack Obama and his gaggle of gun grabbers have their way, the American citizenry will have all of their firearms taken away. If their current attempt to outlaw semi-automatic rifles is successful, does anyone think it will stop there? Don’t be naïve! The goal of people like Barack Obama, Dianne Feinstein, Charles Schumer, et al., has always been total gun confiscation. In fact, Senator Feinstein is actually on record as saying so.

According to Infowars.com, “Senator Dianne Feinstein’s ultimate plan has always been to have Mr. and Mrs. America turn in their guns to the government, period. Feinstein’s bill would criminalize millions of Americans and completely eviscerate second amendment rights.

“She tells us a gun ban is about saving the children and reducing crime, but her comments on 60 Minutes in 1995 reveal her true plan is to target law-abiding American gun owners.

“On Thursday, Feinstein will introduce her dream bill to disarm the American people. The legislation is open-ended and includes provisions to re-register firearms and submit the fingerprints of law-abiding Americans as if they’re sex offenders.

“Feinstein’s bill will also include a buy-back provision that will allow the government to confiscate all firearms. Both Feinstein and New York governor Andrew Cuomo have said that is their plan.

“It is a gun confiscation bill.

“The proposed bill is open declaration of war on the Second Amendment.

“It’s no coincidence that the communist Chinese, the biggest holders of U.S. debt, have demanded the American people be disarmed. History tells us that it is the instinct of all tyrants to disarm the slaves.”

The report plays a video in which Senator Feinstein said, “If I could have gotten 51 votes in the Senate of the United States, for an outright ban, picking up [every gun]… Mr. and Mrs. America, turn ‘em all in.”

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Pentagon Considers Hiring Freeze, Contract Delays

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta says he is asking his department to begin taking steps to freeze civilian hiring, delay some contract awards and curtail some maintenance to prepare for drastic budget cuts if Congress can't reach an agreement on a final spending plan.

Panetta says department officials must take precautionary steps and begin planning for unpaid furloughs.

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THE WAR ON FIREARMS

In the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, the usual cadre of politicians, pundits and commentators are hitting the airwaves and condemning believers of the “guns don’t kill” rationale. This exercise in demonization is being followed with pleas to strip Americans of their guns and place a ban on vaguely-defined “assault” weapons.

What’s been lacking in the flurry of proposals that inevitably followed a catastrophe like Sandy Hook has been a deeper look at the kind of environment impressionable minds are coming of age in. Far too often, politically-minded observers fall back on reactionary emotion for the solution to problems without actually engaging in critical thinking as to the root of what they are trying to solve.

As Southwestern University School of Law professor Butler Shaffer put it, we tend to focus too much “attention on the consequences of our behavior” instead of the “casual factors, as the thinking that produces dysfunctional results.”

We then end up looking to government to solve problems which it has a hand in creating. Many pro-gun control advocates are quick to mention that there is little gun violence in countries with “reasonable” gun laws in place. Yet as economist Thomas Sowell points out, countries with stricter gun control laws such as Mexico, Brazil and Russia all have higher murder rates than the U.S. When you compare Switzerland to Germany, where the former has higher rates of gun ownership than the latter, Switzerland has a lower murder rate.

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How To Tell A Cold From The Flu

The common cold and flu are caused by different viruses but can have some similar symptoms, making them tough to tell apart. In general, the flu is worse and symptoms are more intense.

COLDS: Usual symptoms include stuffy or runny nose, sore throat and sneezing. Coughs are hacking and productive. It's unusual to have fever, chills, headaches and body aches, and if they do occur, they are mild.

FLU: Fever is usually present, along with chills, headache and moderate-to-severe body aches and tiredness. Symptoms can come on rapidly, within three to six hours. Coughs are dry and unproductive, and sore throats are less common.

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Major Accident

There's been a serious accident south bound bypass and rt. 50 ALL lanes are closed. 

GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY ANNOUNCES $25 MILLION FOR RENTAL HOUSING WORKS

Investment supports 1,900 jobs and addresses critical shortage of affordable rental housing for Maryland families

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 11, 2013)
– Governor Martin O’Malley today, joined by House Speaker Michael E. Busch, Maryland Department of Housing Secretary Raymond A. Skinner, affordable housing advocates, and other officials, announced $25 million in the Administration’s proposed FY2014 capital budget for Rental Housing Works, an initiative launched last year to create jobs and address Maryland’s critical shortage of affordable rental housing for working families, senior citizens and individuals with special needs. This year’s investment will preserve over 1,100 new affordable rental housing units and support 1,900 jobs.

The FY2014 budget will continue the Administration’s commitment to job creation, rebuilding the state’s infrastructure, building state-of-the-art classrooms, and contributing to Maryland’s communities. Over the past six years, the O’Malley-Brown Administration has made more cuts than any administration in state history, but through a balanced approach, continues to make strategic investments in priorities that matter to Maryland families like job creation and affordable housing.

“There is no more powerful place in our State than a family's home, and there is nothing more important for protecting that home than a job,” said Governor O’Malley. “Over these past six years, even as we’ve made record cuts to State spending, together with the people of our State, we’ve chosen to invest in priorities that matter to middle class families. That’s why today, we’re announcing $25 million for Rental Housing Works, an investment that will support 1,900 jobs and preserve over 1,100 affordable housing units in our State.”

The Governor made the announcement at the construction site for the Obery Court apartments near downtown Annapolis where last year, during Phase II of the project, the Administration first launched the Rental Housing Works Program. Since then, 63 rental units have been completed of 174 units planned in three phases.

“All over Maryland, we have helped finance the production of attractive, desirable new homes such as we see here at Obery Court,” Secretary Skinner said. “These are projects that create jobs, strengthen communities and provide first-class places to live for families, senior citizens and disabled individuals.”

Trudy McFall, president of the Maryland Affordable Housing Coalition, said the Rental Housing Works initiative has been a top priority for her advocacy group.“We are extremely grateful to the governor for his decision to include this in his budget for a second year. The Rental Housing Works initiative creates high quality private sector jobs and will provide badly needed rental housing,” she said.

Under the leadership of Governor O’Malley and Lt. Governor Brown, even in the toughest of times, Maryland has continued to support affordable lending programs for families. To date, the Administration has helped preserve more than 13,196 rental units in 145 projects.

Places To Go

I have been in many places, but I've never been in Cahoots. Apparently, you can't go alone. You have to be in Cahoots with someone. 

I've also never been in Cognito. I hear no one recognizes you there

I have, however, been in Sane. They don't have an airport; you have to be driven there. I have made several trips there, thanks to my friends, family and work.

I would like to go to Conclusions, but you have to jump, and I'm not too much on physical activity anymore.

I have also been in Doubt. That is a sad place to go, and I try not to visit there too often. 



I've been in Flexible, but only when it was very important to stand firm.

Sometimes I'm in Capable, and I go there more often as I'm getting older.


One of my favorite places to be is in Suspense! It really gets the adrenalin flowing and pumps up the old heart! At my age I need all the stimuli I can get!

I may have been in Continent, and I don't remember what country I was in. It's an age thing.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA


January 14, 2013 6: 00 p.m.
Government Office Building Room 301
Times shown for aeenda items are estimates onlY.
6: 00 p.m. CALL TO ORDER
6: 01 p.m. WELCOME/ANNOL7NCEMENTS
6: 05 p.m. INVOCATION/MEDITATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
6: 07 p.m. CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION—Mayor James P. Ireton, Jr.
Outstanding Marketing Program Award for Code Enforcement
Code Enforcement Officer of the Year
6: 12 p.m. PRESENTATION ON SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (SBA)
ASSISTANCE FOR VICTIMS OF SUPERSTORM SANDY - Karen Knapik,
Public Affairs Specialist, U. S. Small Business Administration
6: 18 p.m. ADOPTION OF LEGISLATNE AGENDA
6: 20 p.m. CONSENT AGENDA—City Clerk Kim Nichols
December 3, 2012 work session minutes 1 a
December 3, 2012 closed session minutes separate envelope)
December 10, 2012 regular meeting minutes lb
December 17, 2012 work session minutes lc
December 17, 2012 closed session minutes separate envelope)
Resolution No. 2240 - approving the appointment of Nicole K. Munday to the ld
City of Salisbury Elections Board for a term ending January 31, 2019'
Resolution No. 2241 - approving the appointment of Cindy R. Pilchard to the 1 e
Ethics Commission for a term ending September 30, 2016
Resolution No. 2242 - approving the appointment of Mary Creamer to the 1 f
Traffic and Safety Advisory Committee for a term ending July 31, 2015
Resolution No. 2243 - approving the reappointment of George J. Mengason to 1 g
the Zoo Commission for a term ending December 31, 2015
Resolution No. 2244 - approving the reappointment of Ronald G. Alessi, Sr. lh
to the Zoo Commission for a term ending December 31, 2015
6: 30 p.m. AWARD OF BIDS—Assistant Internal Services Director-Procurement 2
Catrice Parsons
Declaration of Surplus— Service Handgun
Acquisition of a Refuse Truck

6: 40 p.m. RESOLUTIONS —City Administrator John Pick
Resolution No. 2245 —agreeing to the extension of the acting status for 3a
Edward Johnson, Acting Utility Section Chief, Sewer Division
Resolution No. 2246— authorizing the Chief of Police of the City of Salisbury 3b
to sign a memorandum of understanding between the Maryland State' Police as
the National Crime Information Center( NCIS) Criminal Justice Information
System ( CJIS) Systems Agency (CSA) and the Salisbury Police Department
regarding the transmitting, receiving and storing of information in con unction
with the license plate screening technology
6: SO p.m. PUBLIC COMMENTS
7: 05 p.m. ADJOURNMENT

Turtle Hatchling Saved On Island Headed To N.C.

ASSATEAGUE -- The loggerhead turtle hatchling rescued from the beach at Assateague in advance of Hurricane Sandy in late October continues to progress and has been moved to rehabilitation facility in North Carolina in what will likely be a final stop before a return to the wild in the near future.

On October 26, just about two days before Hurricane Sandy arrived in the mid-Atlantic area, biological technicians and other staff from the Marine Animal Rescue Program (MARP) of the National Aquarium in Baltimore excavated a loggerhead sea turtle nest from the north end of Assateague Island National Seashore in advance of the storm. The loggerhead nest, one of the first viable ever discovered on Assateague, contained three live hatchlings and 160 potentially viable eggs, which had been incubating in the warm sand since the end of July.

The excavation of the nest was planned because the window for viability of the hatchlings and eggs was ready to expire, but the pending arrival of Sandy expedited the project. With Sandy bearing down on the mid-Atlantic region, MARP staffers moved quickly to excavate the entire loggerhead nest and were surprised to find three hatchlings had survived.

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The Beauty Of Mathmatics


JUST LET IT SCROLL AUTOMATICALLY; 
SIT BACK & WATCH THE NUMBERS..AMAZING! 

The Beauty of Mathematics... 
Click here: Mathematics

CHICAGO TEACHERS UNION PRESIDENT TALKS ABOUT BEHEADING THE RICH; CROWD LAUGHS, APPLAUDS


Karen Lewis, president of the Chicago Teachers Union: “At this very moment I still believe there is one party in this country – that is, the party of money, with two branches. Do not think for a minute that the wealthy are ever going to allow you to legislate their riches away from them. Please understand that. However, we are in a moment where the wealth disparity in this country is very reminiscent of the robber baron ages. The labor leaders of that time, though, were ready to kill. They were. They were just – off with their heads. They were seriously talking about that. I don’t think we’re at that point, The key is that they think nothing of killing us, They think nothing about putting us in harm’s way."


Are We Finally Going To See Trash Removal Downtown?

Clearly Mayor Jim Ireton is finally listening but it takes an upcoming election to finally get his attention.

Today, Public Works is out seeking a location in which they can place some dumpsters downtown to help the trash situation. I have been complaining about this problem for many years now. I stated, we pay far more taxes Downtown, (which means people are paying high rent as well) yet we get NO SERVICES whatsoever. 

Do you think Ireton will start pulling the parking meters like I've suggested too? Do you think he'll finally get around to putting up proper signage directing people to the two hour free parking lot? 

Heck, even the Daily Times is planning on running a story this weekend to promote specific businesses here that we suggested several months ago. Obviously someone is starting to listen. Obviously Mayor Ireton is feeling the pressure. 

State Reports Fewer Fatal Fires

The number of people killed in fires in Maryland for 2012 reached a record low.

The state fire marshal's office says that 52 people died in fires for 2012 compared to 67 deaths the year before.

Fire officials believe one of the reasons for the decrease was legislation that requires only cigarettes that are fire safety compliant be sold in Maryland.

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A Comment Worthy Of A Post 1-11-13

jeremy norton said...

To the comment about aqua- unfortunate circumstances have split the partnership that operated aqua. Essentially the team that was running the bar part of the restaurant was unhappy with a few things and decided to leave. Fortunately the party that left was just a "bar management" company and has no legal impact or association with aqua. My last chat with Phil - owner of aqua and the plaza deli was that he would be reopening both places next week.

Seaford Man Arrested For Having a Sexual Relationship With Student

Location: Sussex Technical High School, 17099 County Seat Highway, Georgetown, DE

Date of Occurrence: Various dates and times beginning in March of 2010

Victims:
16 year old female (19 now)
16 year old female

Defendant, Charges, and Bail Information:
Timothy O. Morris, 29, Seaford, DE (Photo Attached)
Continual Sexual Abuse of Child
Rape 4th by Person in Position of Trust, Authority, or Supervision (25 counts)
Unlawful Sexual Contact 2nd Degree (25 Counts)
Sexual Harassment

Arraigned at JP3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $208,500.00 cash bail.

Resume:
Georgetown, DE- The Delaware State Police have arrested a Sussex Tech High School custodian who is accused of having a sexual relationship with a 16 year old student.

In May of 2012, State Police Detectives were contacted by a relative of a now 19 year old female stating that she was involved in a sexual relationship with an adult male employee of Sussex Tech High School while she was a student there. Through further investigation it was determined that the employee, who is a custodian, and the female student had an apparent sexual relationship but the female did not wish to proceed any further with the investigation.

On Wednesday January 9, 2013, Sussex Tech school administrators contacted Detectives after they were informed by a 16 year old student currently attending the school that she was being sexually harassed. The investigation revealed Timothy O. Morris would seek out this victim and give unsolicited hugs and in one incident, attempted to obtain a kiss causing the 16 year old to feel uncomfortable and scared. Morris also obtained the victim’s cell phone number through a social media network and began sending text messages to her.

On Thursday January 10, 2013, the initial victim (the now 19 year old) was re-contacted by Detectives and through the investigation learned that she and Morris began a relationship in March of 2010 when she was 16 years old. The relationship became sexual in nature as the two would meet inside and outside the school setting and engage in sexual intercourse. These incidents occurred for approximately a year and a half before ending in August of 2011.

Timothy O. Morris, 29 of Seaford, was charged with 25 counts of Rape 4th by a Person in Position of Trust, Authority, or Supervision, 25 counts of Unlawful Sexual Contact 2nd, Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, and Sexual Harassment. Morris was arraigned on the charges and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $208,500.00 cash bail.

Questions regarding Timothy O. Morris’ status with Sussex Tech High School should be directed to the Sussex Tech District Office.

Because of the sensitivity of this case, and in consideration of the victims, only limited information will be released.

Camden Man Charged With 5th Offence DUI

Location:  Willow Grove Road west of Camden-Wyoming, DE
 
Date of Occurrence:   Thursday January 10, 2013 at approximately 12:50 a.m.
 
Defendant, Charges, and Bond Information:
 
  • Nelson E. Powell, 44, Camden-Wyoming, DE (No Photo Available)
  • 5th Offense Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
  • Resisting Arrest
  • Driving in Violation of Restrictions
  • Failure to Have Insurance
  • Speeding
 
Arraigned at JP2 and released after posting $7003.00 secured bond.
 
Resume:
Camden-Wyoming, DE- The Delaware State Police arrested a Camden man early this morning for a 5th offense DUI.
 
The incident occurred around 12:50 a.m. this morning as a State Trooper on patrol in the area of Willow Grove Road and Pickett Road was running radar and clocked a vehicle westbound on Willow Grove Road traveling above the posted speed limit.  As the Trooper turned and caught up to the car, it pulled into a residence off Willow Grove Road and drove behind the house where a traffic stop was conducted.  The driver, who was later identified as Nelson E. Powell, then exited the vehicle and was immediately contacted by the Trooper.  An odor of alcoholic beverage was detected and a DUI investigation ensued.  Nelson Powell was subsequently taken into custody and transported back to Troop 3 near Camden.
 
A computer inquiry into Powell’s driver’s license revealed he had four previous DUI convictions (08/01/91, 08/14/00, 10/11/06, and 04/20/07); this arrest would make #5.
 
Powell was charged with the above listed offenses and arraigned a JP2.  He was released after posting $7003.00 secured bond.

Inaugural Pastor Withdraws Over Anti-Gay Remarks

The evangelical pastor chosen to give the benediction at President Barack Obama's inauguration withdrew from the ceremony Thursday after remarks he made two decades ago condemning the gay rights movement surfaced.

The Rev. Louie Giglio of Passion City Church in Atlanta said in a statement he withdrew because it was likely that the "prayer I would offer will be dwarfed by those seeking to make their agenda the focal point of the inauguration."

Addie Whisenant, a spokeswoman for the Presidential Inaugural Committee, said the committee had chosen Giglio because of his work to end human trafficking.

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GOVERNOR O’MALLEY AND GOVERNOR HICKENLOOPER PREPARE FOR SATURDAY RAVENS-BRONCOS SHOWDOWN


Governor declares Purple Friday for all state employees; Government House illuminated in “Ravens Purple”


ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 11, 2013) – Governor Martin O’Malley and Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper have made a friendly wager in honor of this weekend’s AFC Divisional playoff game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Denver Broncos. If the Broncos lose, Governor Hickenlooper will send Governor O’Malley a dozen Colorado lamb chops, and if the Ravens lose, Governor O’Malley will send Governor Hickenlooper a dozen Chesapeake Bay crab cakes.

“The AFC North Division Champion Baltimore Ravens have been to the playoffs for five straight years, and continue to prove that they are one of the best teams in football,” said Governor O'Malley. “We look forward to the game Saturday, and wish the Ravens well as they march through Denver all the way to the Super Bowl - and we can’t wait to enjoy those Colorado lamb chops.”  

Governor Hickenlooper added: “The Denver Broncos are the hottest team in football. We look forward to welcoming the Baltimore Ravens to the thin air in Denver and the raucous atmosphere at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. We can’t think of a better place than Colorado for Ray Lewis to play the last game of his remarkable career.”

In honor of the Ravens and Ray Lewis’ last season on the field, the Governor’s web site has been transformed to Purple, and he has declared today “Purple Friday” for all state employees.

Quote Of The Day 1-11-13


"The problems we face today are there because the people who work for a living
are now outnumbered by those who vote for a living." --Anonymous

Thank God Its Friday 1-11-13

What will you be doing this weekend?

Berlin Seeking Fire Company’s ‘Actual Financial Status’

BERLIN -- In what could be the first tentative step towards what many in town will hope will be a peaceful reconciliation, the Mayor and Council recently directed Town Attorney Dave Gaskill to begin a dialogue with the Berlin Fire Company’s (BFC) legal representation.

However, Gaskill’s job, according to Mayor Gee Williams, is only to request “specific financial documents” from the BFC so that the town can determine where the institution stands financially. Whether or not that will eventually result in Berlin restoring any or all of the approximately $600,000 in funding it yanked from the company over the summer is unknown at this point, according to officials.

The town severed all of the funding it was giving the BFC, causing a huge stir at the time and resulting in accusations of mismanagement by both sides.

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A Letter To The Editor: DAILY TIMES EXPOSES JIM LIARTON!


In his campaign propaganda (and that’s what it is, folks) Mr. Ireton suggests that he is responsible for the fact that the City’s tax rate has not increased during his term as Mayor.

Well, this is from today’s issue:

“Despite pressure at times from Mayor Jim Ireton to raise taxes, the City Council majority, led by fiscal guru Debbie Campbell, stood firm and imposed program cuts instead.”

And that’s why the City has those surplus funds that Ireton is trying to take credit for.

In the future we will have more to say about his aversion to the truth. In the meantime, don’t get too close to his nose.

Somerset County Sheriff's Office Press Release 1-11-13


Jason Mattew Hinman of Pocomoke, arrested 1-5-13 for possession of suspected marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Hinman was later released on signature pending court actions. The arrest was the result of a traffic stop conducted by deputies in the area of Tulls Corner Rd, Marion.

James Washington Bryant 3rd. of Salisbury, arrested 1-5-13 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Bryant was held on a $5,000 bond.

William Bernard Johnson Jr. of Crisfield, arrested 1-5-13 for driving under the influence of alcohol, driving under the influence of alcohol per-se, driving while impaired by alcohol, possession of suspected marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Johnson was released on signature pending court actions. The arrest was the result of a traffic stop conducted by deputies on Crisfield Highway, Westover.

Gregory Lamont Cottman of Princess Anne, arrested 1-7-13 on a warrant for contempt. Cottman was held on a $177.50 bond.

Terry Lionel Knox Jr. of Princess Anne, arrested 1-7-13 on warrants regarding dog fighting, and animal cruelty. Knox was later released on personal recognizance.

Troy Woodward Embrey of Frankford Delaware, arrested 1-7-13 on a warrant for failing to comply with a court ordered peace order. Embrey was later released on a unsecured bond.

Asardius Monique Brewster of Philadelphia Pennsylvania, arrested 1-7-13 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Brewster was later released after posting a $2,500 bond.

Preston Lee Taylor of Princess Anne, arrested 1-8-13 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Taylor was held on a $500.00 bond.

Brian Keith Brown of Princess Anne, arrested 1-8-13 for warrants regarding 2nd degree assault, and reckless endangerment. Brown was held on a $500.00 bond.

Loretta Lee Phillips of Salisbury, arrested 1-8-13 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Phillips was held on a $500.00 bond.

Liza Marie Greene of Salisbury, arrested 1-8-13 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Greene was later released after posting a $250.00 bond.

Vivian Lois Miller of Princess Anne, arrested 1-8-13 for warrants regarding 2nd degree assault, and reckless endangerment. Miller was held on a $5,000 bond.

Marvin Argueta-Coj of Princess Anne, arrested 1-9-13 for driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while impaired by alcohol, consuming alcohol while driving, driving without license, negligent driving, and failure to drive on right side of roadway. Marvin was released on signature pending court actions. The arrest was the result of a traffic stop conducted by deputies on Ocean Highway, Westover.

Tre’saun Mastail Dozier of Salisbury, arrested  1-9-13 on a warrant fopr failing to appear in court. Dozier was held on a $150,000 bond.

Traver Clarence Corbin of Princess Anne, criminal summons served for malicious destruction of property, and trespassing. Corbin was released on signature pending court actions.

Stan Marsell Schoolfield of Princess Anne, arrested 1-9-13 on warrants for failing to appear in court. Schoolfield was held on a $1,000 bond.

3rd Friday: Art & Entertainment In Downtown Salisbury

Salisbury, MD – January 18th, 2013 marks the next 3rd Friday in Downtown Salisbury, and when you consider all the art, fantastic shopping and restaurant specials that will be going on, you have yourself a great reason to head downtown for a fabulous night out. There will be art and multimedia events going on at both ends of West Main Street, so mark your calendars for a night that is sure to please.

On the Plaza, there will be several stops to make. The 3rd Friday artists will again fill The Powell Building, with Fine Art displays, as well as, plenty of handmade items and unique crafts. Then be sure to stop by The Art Institute and Gallery opening reception of the Figures & Portraits Show from 5 – 7pm. The show will feature two separate exhibits, each focusing on figurative art and portraiture. The Main Gallery will hold a wide range of works from artists from all over the Delmarva Peninsula, while the Foyer Gallery will highlight three local artists with varying approaches to the craft of portraiture; Ed Challenger, Jess Cross Davis and Leslie Belloso. Aqua Italian Restaurant and Sushi de Kanpai will each have amazing 3rd Friday specials, so stop in for a bite before you venture on!

On the West End of East Main Street, Seasons Best will be having a Countdown to the Superbowl Party with a chili cookoff! Their vendors will be cooking their secret recipes, and customers can vote for their favorites! After that, head upstairs to SWAC, as they celebrate the "Art of Film" with showing of movies such as Man with the Iron Mask, Jane Eyre, and a Star is Born as well as depicting the history of film through the silent shorts films of Chaplin, and classics like the Little Rascals, all time permitting. Then stop by Mojo’s for a drink to top it all off!
3F is an all-volunteer effort, a downtown economic development initiative and a project of the Salisbury Arts & Entertainment District Committee. There is no charge for local artists to set up, only registration is required. For more information: 3rdFridaySby@gmail.com or Visit www.3rdfridaysby.com

SPD Press Release 1-11-13


My Most Embarrassing Trip To The Store

There was a bit of confusion at Ace Hardware this morning.

When I was ready to pay for my purchases of gun powder and bullets
The cashier said, "Strip down, facing me."

Making a mental note to complain to Harper about the gun registry
People running amok, I did just as she had instructed.

When the hysterical shrieking and alarms finally subsided, I found
Out that she was referring to my credit card.

I have been asked to shop elsewhere in the future.

They need to make their instructions to us seniors a little clearer!

Joe Albero Makes USA Today News

Dog Treats Recall Alert


Dear Dog Owner,
 
At your request, I'm sending you this special alert.
 
On January 9, 2013, there were two voluntary recalls announced due to possible contamination with antibiotic residue.
 
To learn which products are affected, please visit each of the following links: